Outnumbered

That's right folks...Come late October 2011, Brian and I will officially be OUTNUMBERED!!!

To say that we are thrilled about the blessing of two new little feet in our home would be an understatement. We are over the moon ecstatic about this new blessing that God has given us and we feel equally blessed that He has chosen to entrust us with another little life.

Brian's Valentine's Day "Gift" - I put the positive test in a box!!! And he certainly was SURPRISED!

New shirts for the Big Sisters "To Be" :)

I think it is safe to say that we are even more excited about sharing this news with "the world" NOW because of all we have been through the past 9 weeks since finding out we were expecting. The next part of this post might be a little "TMI" (too much information) but I am happy to share in the hopes that it might help some one else some day. Also, this kid already has an amazing "God Story" as it grows in my womb, so we would like to share that as well. However, if you don't like TMI, then you can just be excited about our initial news and stop reading now. LOL!!! :)

On Friday, February 11th I started feeling really dizzy, every time I would lay down, or even bend down to pick up Chyler, or stand up, etc. I honestly felt like I was going to pass out. The entire world would spin round and round, it was the strangest thing. I had mentioned it to Brian (who was working that weekend) and he suggested that I get it checked out on Monday if it was not better. On Sunday after church, knowing that I would need to obey my husband's wishes to see a doctor on Monday, I decided to pick up a pregnancy test at the grocery store; because of course I was NOT pregnant, but wanted to rule it out; after all, we have been very careful to make sure that we didn't get pregnant. Well, you know how those tests tell you to wait until the morning to use them, I was so confident that it was going to be negative whether it was morning or evening, so that night, while home alone, I decided to take the first test (it was a 2-pack). Needless to say, I took the test and within 2 seconds (literally) the positive line was appearing. Again, I was home alone, so I totally started flipping out. Pacing the floor saying "Oh my goodness! Oh my goodness!" Looking back now, I think I was in shock. LOL! So, instead of calling the doctor about the dizziness on Monday morning (Valentine's Day), I was sharing the wonderful news with Brian and assuming the dizziness was just an early pregnancy symptom. We were both very surprised!! :)

A week went by and we were literally both in shock and trying to figure out how this happened (haha!) But it looks like my cycle was thrown off track because of still breastfeeding, so when we thought we couldn't conceive (based on our "natural family planning" chart), we actually did! :) Once again, we are reminded how much God's plans are much greater than our own; certainly we thought Chyler would be at least 2 and the girls would be sharing a room, we would own our own place, have a bigger house, etc....we would have things all figured out....Nope! God's plan prevails! :) We are now very thankful for 9 months to figure all these things out! :)

Well, after that first week went by, we were just ecstatic as the news set in, and then boom! Everything changed in an instant, such as it seems with life. On Monday night, February 21st I was at Bible study and I went to the restroom only to find that I was bleeding - bright red blood - bleeding. :( My heart sank. I excused myself calmly and left Bible study immediately. As soon as I got home, I crawled in bed next to Brian and I told him the news. We were both terrified but also in prayer that God would protect our baby. I even found myself pleading with the Lord to save this baby. I was unsure how Brian and I both would get through this type of loss.

The next morning, I was still bleeding and so I called our midwife and went in to have my blood drawn for HCG levels to be checked. Two days later I had my levels checked again, and the following Monday, February 28th they called to tell me that the numbers went up, but they were not doubling like they think they should so they scheduled an ultrasound. We went in for the ultrasound a little nervous about what we would find but were elated when we saw a sac with a teeny, tiny baby growing and although I was only about 5-6 weeks pregnant, there was a tiny flicker of a heartbeat....113 beats per minute. Such a peaceful moment for both Brian and I. However, they also spotted a bleed. A small area behind the (establishing) placenta that was bleeding. :( This was concerning and a little unsettling for us, but after seeing that heartbeat we were just so thankful and really placing trust in God for full protection over this tiny little life.

The weeks have obviously flown by and I would like to say that the bleeding has stopped, however, that has not been the case. But the glorious news is that after 3 ultrasounds later (that is more than I have ever had with the girls), the tiny little life inside of me is developing and growing and happily bouncing around in there. The bleeding has continued on and off for the past several weeks, but has slowed down considerably. Our midwives have diagnosed me with a subchorionic hemorrhage, which is just a really big medical term for a bleed in the uterus. Through prayer, we are confident that the Lord is healing it and we are so thankful for a precious blessing growing in my healthy womb!!!

Many have asked why we have waited this long to tell "the world" that we are expecting, (I am now 13 weeks along) and my main answer would be that we like to tell family in person, if possible, and this past weekend was the first time we were with my entire (immediate) family (see video below). Because of travel plans we were able to tell both sets of parents and siblings in person when we were expecting Chyler, but due to living so far away from all our family, my parents and siblings were the only ones that we could tell in person this time. I was able to catch the moment on video and here it is!



The other reason is just because of all the stuff that has been going on this pregnancy (also, we didn't "spill the beans" with either of the girls until I was 12 weeks along). Of course we know that babies are blessings from the Lord and we desire to share that news with all our friends and family; however, we also know (a little too well, on my part) that the Lord "gives and takes away." If the Lord saw fit that we were to only have this baby for a few weeks, than that is something Brian and I would have wanted to deal with in private. So, with that said, we hope that if any of you are disappointed that we waited to share the news, you will understand where we are coming from and you will still be committed to praying for us over the next 27+ weeks left of this pregnancy. :)

We thank you in advance for your prayers and are thrilled to introduce our newest blessing to you come late October (or early November, as our babies tend to be late arrivals)! :)

40 Weeks

40 Weeks has come and Baby "C" is still nice and comfy. :)

Not too much to report. Everything is fine, blood pressure is great, baby's heart rate was a steady 150 beats per minute and then accelerated up to the 160's as she started kicking and moving, which made my midwife very happy (an nice acceleration means nothing is pressing on the cord when the baby moves around). I unexpectedly gained 3 pounds during the past week and a half; (yikes!) that makes for a total of 13 pounds gained since day one of pregnancy. Nell (our midwife) said not to worry about that; she assumes most of it is just fluid retention; although I still have no swelling (thank God!).

The sciatica and hip pain has been very severe the past few days. My mother has been staying with us for the past week to help me out and I honestly don't have enough words to explain how much of a help and blessing she has been. Not being able to pick up Sierra, walk around, get in and out of the car, etc. (many things we all take for granted); it has been a tremendous blessing to have her here with us. Thanks Mom!

I had not seen Nell in about 4-5 weeks (they try to rotate you through to see all 3 midwives) and as soon as she saw me barely walking around, she immediately recommended that I see a chiropractor. Now, I have never seen a chiropractor in my life; but when Nell showed concern that my hips might be out of alignment and the baby might have a hard time coming down the birth canal correctly, that is all she had to say to me to get me on the phone with some chiropractors. I am trying to do everything I can to help this baby come as smoothly as possible. With that said, the chiropractor is now my good friend. :) I went and had an adjustment just a few hours after seeing Nell and the rest of that evening I had contractions. I am hopeful that these adjustments will continue to help my body do what God intended for it to do. I am so grateful to Nell for that suggestion and I really wish I had gone sooner. My new recommendation for all pregnant women - see a chiropractor!!! :)

So, aside from all those details, Baby "C" is doing great and seems to want to stay put for a while longer. I am feeling great, aside from this back pain; now we are just trying to enjoy our last few moments together before life becomes "doubly blessed!"

Here I am on our due date - February 24, 2010 - Looking and feeling all of my 40 weeks of pregnancy! :)

39 Weeks

Well, that picture just about sums up how I have been feeling the past week and a half. Ouch! I have terrible sciatica pain and I am definitely developing a new found respect for people who have chronic back pain. I don't know how I could live with this all the time. I pray every day that this pain will be quick to go away as soon as this little one arrives. My midwife has assured me that it will, she says it might take a month or so, but it will heal on its own eventually. I have to admit, I have a huge fear that this pain has come to stay; but I am working on trusting God for complete healing (and soon).

I look ridiculous too. I never understood pregnant people that "waddled." I never "waddled" with Sierra and I honestly thought it was crazy that people actually would "waddle" when pregnant; however, now I realize why some women end up waddling through their last few weeks of pregnancy. Lord forgive me for doubting the "pregnant waddle."

Thankfully week 39 brought a huge blessing from a very dear friend. My friend Jaime called me on Wednesday (when I was 39 weeks exactly) and told me that she wanted to bless me with a massage from a friend of hers that was a massage therapist and also the same lady that massaged her at the end of her pregnancies. I was overwhelmed with joy and thankfulness when Jaime called. What a huge blessing!!! So on Thursday I received the most wonderful massage and I have to admit, it was pure bliss. Jaime came over to our house, brought me my favorite Starbucks drink, watched Sierra for me, and told me to just relax and take my time. It was wonderful. She even packed lunch for Sierra and had her fed and ready for nap time when I got home. Oh, what a blessing! The Lord has truly blessed me with Jaime's friendship. Thank you Lord and Thank you Jaime!!!

My appointment with the midwife was early this week and my next appointment is not until late next week, so I have about a week and a half between these two appointments. Here's hoping I go into labor before I have to go back for another check-up. :) Time will tell.

The appointment was great though. It was on Monday, so that was only 3 days since my 38 week check-up. My weight is still fluctuating between 9-10 pounds total weight gain and my blood pressure remains low at 100/66. The baby's heart rate was a steady 145 beats per minute and my uterus is measuring right on track. My cervix was still dilated only 1cm and is 50% effaced. I am happy with this progress, considering I was still closed up tight with no effacement with Sierra at this point.

Everything seems to be progressing very nice. I have been having a lot of cramping and sharp pains (mostly at night), but I am hoping that it is all just my body gearing up for the big day; whenever God decides that should be. We are excited to meet Baby "C" - but we are also enjoying our little family of 3 for a little while longer. Every day is a blessing and Baby "C" continues to be very active; a sign that she is nice and comfy in her warm, watery home. I am not feeling impatient, just enjoying feeling her on the inside because soon enough she will be crying (and hungry) on the outside. LOL! :)

Needless to say, I did not take any pictures this week of my growing belly. I know I will probably regret that, but with this pain, showers are happening only sporadically and the thought of standing for a picture is not my idea of a good time right now. Maybe next week! :)

38 Weeks

I had my 38 week check-up this week and really can not believe that we have already made it to this point. This pregnancy has flown by so quickly. It is amazing to me to think that we will be meeting our new little girl in just a few short weeks.

As for that growing baby girl - All is well! I met with our midwife Blair and when I first arrived (I was running a few minutes late) I went to her office to tell her that I had arrived. She noticed that I was walking funny / limping (my new way of getting around since this extreme sciatic pain has set in even more). She said to me, "come here for a second." So I walked closer and she asked me what in the world was going on. I explained that the back pain I was "starting" to get last week, had set in even more and was making it difficult for me to walk. She expressed her sincere empathy for me and my pain and said, "This weekend sounds like a great weekend to have a baby, I think!" I agreed that really the sooner the better is how I am feeling at this point. I never had back pain with Sierra and I really can't complain too much, but it is becoming quite difficult to do much of anything, especially tasks that I must do in order to take care of Sierra.

Needless to say, Blair decided that we should do a check this week to see if there has been any progression and I obliged. She "checked" and "checked" and initially said that my cervix was closed, which I was okay with; then she said "wait...you are 1cm!" Not quite sure what she was feeling prior to that, but she commented, "I didn't think that felt like a cervix!" Hmmm....interesting! :) When she did "find" my cervix though, she said, "I am just going to hold my finger here for a minute." Let's just say "WOW!" That was not the greatest experience, but maybe it will help me progress; whatever it was that she did.

Following the exam, she told me that I have a really great pelvis...a comment that I have gotten before, after the delivery of Sierra. Not exactly sure what that means, but hopefully it means that pushing this baby out will not be too difficult either. Sierra was pushed out in a little less than an hour and it was her head, arm, and elbow that all came out together. I was praised for having an amazing pelvis for getting all that out in such a short amount of time for a first time delivery (and needing only 2-4 stitches at that). Of course I didn't know any different; but here's hoping this baby just falls right out! LOL!!!!

I am excited to already be 1 cm dilated at 38 weeks, considering I was closed up tight at 40 weeks with Sierra; but I am not getting my hopes up. We are still waiting on God's perfect timing and just enjoying our little family of 3 until then.

In other stats, my blood pressure was 99/64, the baby's heart rate was in the 150's, and I lost 1 pound. :) My weight seems to be wavering between the same two numbers...up one week, down the next; right around 9-10 pounds gained so far this pregnancy. A very healthy number for me! :)

Lastly, some belly pictures. However, these are much better pictures than I have been taking at home. During this 38th week of pregnancy a sweet friend of mine, Amanda, offered to do some maternity photos with me. She is a free lance photographer who works out of her home (having two small kiddos of her own). She is building her portfolio and has not done many indoor maternity shoots, so she asked me if I would be willing to be her model. I had all but given up on getting maternity pictures done with this pregnancy, so I jumped at the chance to have Amanda take a few shots. She sent me a preview of 3 images that she took and I can't wait to see the rest of them - click HERE to see a preview of the yummy ice cream shots too! Here are the 3 pictures that she posted so far. Isn't she super talented?!?! For more information about Amanda and her beautiful photography, check out her web site at Kimberlin Gray Photography. I highly recommend her!

The View From Here

Just for fun, I took these pictures with my camera phone the other day (some where between 36 and 37 weeks). I LOVE this stage of pregnancy and being able to lift up my shirt and watch Baby "C" just roll around in there. The miracle that is growing inside me is such a wonderful blessing from God and we praise Him daily for her little life! We can't wait to meet her soon! :)

Baby Miller's Arrival Survey

In case you missed the mention about the survey I posted here on the blog, I wanted to be sure to let you know about it.

A fun survey has been created for all our readers to try and guess the arrival date of our new little blessing. Click HERE or you can click on the link below the "Count Down for Baby #2 ticker" to take the survey. We did this with Sierra's birth and it was so fun to read all the guesses and responses. My sister, Katie was the big WINNER back in 2008, guessing April 10th as Sierra's birth date!!! We are excited to see who will win this time.

We will be sure to announce the winner after Baby "C" makes her arrival! :)

37 Weeks

Another week down...37 weeks of pregnancy have come and gone and I am feeling GREAT! It is certainly a nice blessing to be able to say that. I have no swelling, just a twinge of (annoying) back pain that started a couple days ago, and I am actually feeling pretty rested; thanks to a weekend of "catch-up" sleep at my parent's house and Brian's schedule allowing for me to do less when it comes to picking up Sierra and other things around the house. Praise God for all these blessings!

Today I had my 37 week check up and all is going well on that home front as well. I met with our midwife, Blair and we had a nice chat about the impending labor and delivery. She had a little pep-talk with me about this delivery and seeing past (actually forgetting about) all the disappointments that we experienced with Sierra's delivery. Praying for God's hand on this delivery and knowing that we can experience what we have set out to do and welcome a 100% healthy baby into this world.

My blood pressure was great - 108/64 and the baby's heart rate was in the 140's; my Group B Strep test was negative, so that was good news to hear as well. I gained 1 more pound over the last week, hitting the "10 pounds gained" mark. I am not up 10 pounds from my pre-pregnancy weight and very happy with that amount. That is how much I gained during my pregnancy with Sierra and although the ideal weight gain for me during pregnancy is 15-25 pounds, no one is concerned and we are all healthy.

Blair and I also briefly discussed our child care plans with Sierra once my labor starts because she is still not allowed inside the hospital. Generously, my mother has offered to come from Richmond to stay with Sierra when my labor starts to progress; but unfortunately, that is a 2 hour drive and so much is unknown about what will all happen and when. I am trying not to be concerned about all that and just trusting that God will work it all out.

Blair gave me the option at this appointment whether or not to have a cervical exam and I thankfully declined. We made the decision together on a few things:

1. Knowing that I carried Sierra to 41 weeks and I am only 37 weeks currently

2. Knowing that last week I had no progress and it is unlikely that has really changed this week

3. Sometimes (not often, but could) cervical exams can induce/speed up progression of labor and this weekend is not ideal to have a baby considering the fact that it is snowing non-stop up the East coast; specifically where my Mama lives and would have to travel to get here to be with Sierra. :)

So there you have it, all and all everything is great! I am feeling great and although we are not ready around this house physically (ah, em....still haven't moved Sierra to a "big girl bed" yet); I am feeling good about everything that is about to come and change in the next few weeks.

We are also enjoying a growing belly! :) Here's the proof:

36 Weeks

36 weeks pregnant and really wondering where the time has gone. I honestly can't believe how fast this pregnancy has gone by. Everyone told me that it would, being my second pregnancy and then with student teaching and keeping up with Sierra on top of that, it really did fly by!

I am feeling great and my appointment went very well. Everything is perfect and baby "C" is still moving around like crazy. My blood pressure was in the normal range and I picked up 3 pounds in 3 weeks. That is the most I have gained over one period of time for this pregnancy and I am certain the baby is using it to pack on the weight; my belly certainly looks like it anyway.

I saw our midwife, Nell at this appointment and she had to test me for Group B Strep; So while she was "down there" she went ahead and did a cervical exam as well. Fun! Fun! My cervix is still closed and there is no progression to report; however she did say that the head was down nice and low, which I certainly have been feeling these days!

I am pretty confident that our little precious girl is going to be "baking" for a while longer and sometimes might even guess that we will have an early March baby. Only God knows for sure though, so we will see. Just for fun though, I have set up a survey on the blog. It is directly underneath the ticker countdown for baby #2 and directly above the newest post. Back in 2008, my sister Katie guessed the birth date of Sierra right on and her husband Shaun left a cute note about how he thought Sierra would look, that was also "right on." :) Having the survey results are fun and I will be sure to announce the winner after our baby girl arrives. Please take a minute and fill in the survey! Have fun!!! :)

And now for some growing belly pictures:

32/34 Weeks

I had my 32 week check-up last week and all is looking great! Baby girl is happily head-down, or so my midwife thinks. :) Her heart rate was lower, but still sounding very healthy and in the 120's. I gained between 1/2 - 1 pound, bringing me to a total of 5 pounds gained so far. I was extremely excited about that because God knows I ate way too much food over the Christmas season. Also, my blood pressure was more of a normal level at 122/74.

So, given all those stats, things are continuing to go well. I was actually 33 weeks pregnant at this check-up (I missed the 32 week window due to Christmas and being out of town). Since I should have had another appointment at 34 weeks, we decided to fore go that appointment and just meet up again at 36 weeks, which is also when I will have my Group B Strep test done.

I have been feeling really well; just a little tired from not sleeping very good due to 8 month pregnancy symptoms. I also have been feeling some soreness in my groin area and I did ask my midwife about it and she assures me that it is completely normal and sets in for almost all pregnant women around 31 weeks. She says I probably just don't remember it during my pregnancy with Sierra; and I can assure you, I don't remember it. It is similar to the soreness that I experienced following Sierra's birth; mostly just sore "down there" when I get up and down off the couch, in and out of bed, rolling over in bed, or going up and down the stairs. I was sure it was because I stopped student teaching and starting doing A LOT more lifting of my near 30 pound toddler, along with A LOT more going up and down the stairs; however, that occurred at the same time that I turned 31 weeks, so who really knows! It certainly isn't anything to complain too much about, just worth mentioning and noting.

Emotionally, I seem to be very sensitive lately. The impending birth and leaving Sierra continues to bring tears to my eyes and the feeling that we are not physically ready AT ALL around this house to welcome a new baby, is making me very anxious. Brian's current schedule is not conducive to helping me get anything done and when Sierra is in bed or napping, my energy level finds me right on the couch; trying to get some rest. Yikes! Hopefully my mom will be able to come here for a couple days in early February and help me a little; also hopefully soon Brian's schedule will slow down a little bit and he will be around more to help as well. Our biggest undertaking is to prepare the guest bedroom and make it a toddler bedroom and then "train" our toddler in her new "big girl" bed. Prayers are definitely accepted on that front! :)

Thankfully, I was looking back at old blog posts and at 34 weeks pregnant with Sierra (which I am currently), we had nothing purchased/ready/done, etc. I am sure that God will not give me more than I can handle and this baby will stay put for a while longer so we can prepare a bit more. :) Here's praying for that!!!

Well, speaking of finding energy, my sweet 21 month old toddler is waking up and saying "I get you, Mama" over the monitor. My cue to get up and go get her!!! :) As I mentioned, we have our next check-up in 2 weeks; so until then, thanks for the continued prayers!

Oh, and what is a "Prego Post" without a Prego Pic?!?! Here is the baby belly at 33 weeks:

28 Weeks

28 weeks of pregnancy came and went...much like the rest of this pregnancy has done. I have been so busy with student teaching and keeping up with Christmas and Sierra, etc. I sometimes almost forget that I am pregnant! But alas, pregnant I am and I certainly have a growing belly to show for it!

My 28 week check-up was just great! I had to miss school to go to this one because it had to be in the morning - this was the appointment where you drink that oh-so-yummy glucose drink and then they test your blood sugar an hour later. The drink was not as tasty as I remembered it being, but thankfully my blood sugar was perfect! They also tested my iron level which was perfect as well! Thank God for Nutrilite Vitamins!!! :)

I gained 2 more pounds, bringing me to a total of 5 pounds gained so far. I am very happy with that total; although I think this little girl wishes there was more room in there at this point. :) She moves soooo much!!! My blood pressure was low, but better than last time @ 102/68 and everything else checked out great; including a healthy heart rate for the little girl - averaging around 150 bpm.

I was happy to have Brian attend this appointment with me; however, Sierra had to go to the sitter. (No they have not lifted the ban yet!) :( Bummer!

My 32 week check-up is scheduled for just after the 1st of the year and then I will start going to the office every 2 weeks! That just seems crazy to me. I really can't believe in about 9 weeks time we will be holding another precious miracle in our arms! We can't wait!!!!

These pictures were taken around 30 weeks, rather than at 28 weeks, but I thought I would post anyway. Hope to get back on track with the belly pictures now that I have a little more free time on my hands! :) I love documenting this wonderful miracle God has blessed us with!

24 Week Check-up

Well, since I am almost 31 weeks pregnant, I thought, why not post about my 24 week check-up?!?! Gosh, this kid is already getting slighted!!! LOL! Hopefully as she gets older, I can explain to her God's plan of me being pregnant during student teaching and she will understand my lack of blogging during that time! :)

Either way though, I do want to document for memories sake - so here goes my 24 week check-up!

All and all, everything was looking good at 24 weeks. The baby is growing strong and Mama is doing well. The 24 week appointment brought a sad realization to me though as I walked into the hospital and up to the midwifery center ALL BY MYSELF!!! If I can be frank on here, and it is my blog, so I think I will....the lame hospital ban because of the ridiculous H1N1 "media" scare has made it so that no one under the age of 18 is allowed in the hospital, unless they are the patient. So, since Sierra can't stay home by herself, Brian too has to miss out on all the appointments. To say the least, this is very disappointing to us and we are praying that the ban is lifted before the end of February. However, after a discussion with my midwife at this 24 week appointment, that is probably not likely to happen. :(

She did however discuss with me about doing a home-birth, but Brian and I are just not comfortable with that at this point; so instead we will take it all in stride, hospital ban and all. If

that is the worse that happens, we are blessed and won't complain too much. :) Then again, I

seem to be an emotional pregnant women these days, so we will see!

Other than the discussion of the silly hospital ban and my family not being able to attend the appointment, we did talk about my dizziness / lightheaded-ness that seems to be plaguing me this pregnancy. When taking my blood pressure - which was 88/58 - she joked by saying if she wasn't looking at me breathing, she would be wondering if I was even alive with that kind of pressure. :) Needless to say, my blood pressure has always been low and this pregnancy has really made it tip, I mean, dip the scales! She is certain this is why I have been feeling dizzy and even fainted back when I was 16 weeks prego (did I ever blog about that? Who knows!). Tara, our midwife, told me there was really nothing to be done, just try to sit down and relax when I

feel faint and continue to drink lots of fluids.

The only other stats to report at 24 weeks is that I gained 2 pounds, finally on the plus side! This makes me 3 pounds up from my pre-pregnancy weight. A very healthy weight gain, if I do say so myself! Also, the nausea and vomiting finally subsided around 22 weeks, so no more throwing up for me! The baby's heart rate was a healthy 155 bpm and my uterus is measuring a wonderful 25 cm! God is good and the baby is doing wonderful! We are so blessed and really can not wait to meet our precious girl!

Here are some pictures of my growing belly at 24 weeks. Don't you just love the stretch marks Sierra adoringly provided for me? Thankfully I have none to account for during this pregnancy and I hope it stays that way!!!

It's a...

...Girl!!!!!!

That's right...another bouncing baby Girl!!!!

At 21 weeks (October 12th) we were given the wonderful news that God has blessed us with another beautiful, healthy, baby girl!!!!

Words can not express to you how thankful we were to see her bouncing around on the screen and to see how healthy she is growing. We were able to capture the entire ultrasound on DVD and we will now have that keepsake for years to come. Sierra was also able to be there with us and it was a wonderful family moment. Sierra didn't really understand what was going on, but having our whole family a part of this new blessing is very important to us and we can't wait to watch our two sisters grow up together. I am confident that Sierra is going to be a great big sister to her little sister! Oh how joyful that makes me feel, to say the words "big sister and little sister" - I am so excited that these two will have each other. I don't know how I would have gotten through wedding planning, the loss of a spouse, pregnancy, nursing, and just plain life without my sisters! Sisterhood is so precious! We are praising God for our two little precious girls! Now, we just can't wait to meet our newest one!

Here is a great shot of our beautiful baby girl. Again the u/s tech continuously commented on how "cute" she is with her little button nose and cute profile; Brian and I thought it was funny, because these are the same comments that the last u/s tech said to us, 2 year ago. I can't wait to see if this precious girl looks like her big sister!!!

To recall what Sierra's 21 week ultrasound picture looked like...click HERE!

We did not meet with our midwife that day, but they did check my weight and I am finally on the positive side of things - I picked up 1 pound since my 16 week check-up. Everything else checked out perfectly and I am also happy to report that the vomiting has finally subsided (around week 22 - about 3 weeks ago). I go for my 24/25 week check-up with my midwife tomorrow and I will be sure to update when I get the chance.

Thanks for your continued prayers over this little one growing in my womb. We appreciate them so much!!!

PS - Baby Girl Miller is still unnamed. :) We aren't even close to naming her yet and praying that God will point us to the perfect name soon. For we know and trust that He already has plans for her and He already knows what her name will be. :)

18 Months Old / 20 Weeks Gestation

If you are feeling frustrated with the fact that you are unable to keep up with our lives via this blog – Well, welcome to our world!!! I am having trouble keeping up with my own life as I live it, let alone blogging about it!!! The promise of being busy while one student teaches has proven to hold true, through and through.

The good news about being so slammed with work, school, and life is that time is rolling on past and although I don’t see the light yet, I am certain that the end is nearing. I can’t wait to get home to my “real” life; hanging with my darling girl and hubby!!!

Speaking of our darling girl, she is growing like a weed and just turned 18 months old yesterday. She is growing so fast and continues to bring joy to our lives. She is talking up a storm and pretty much is communicating for her every need and want these days. It definitely is a work in progress and requires lots of reinforcement from us too; but there is nothing sweeter than hearing her say, “No thank you Mama” or “Night-Night Dada.” So sweet!!! Also, she knows where Mama’s baby is and will gladly lift my shirt to show anyone my belly if you ask “where is the baby?” – Even when we are in public – (yikes)! She happily kisses the “baby” and is just so sweet about it. She is already showing great “big sister” habits!

However, we have seen some negative behavior issues since she has been away from home on a daily basis the past month and a half, and we are having a hard time balancing discipline with being away from her so much. It is very difficult and another reason why I can’t wait to get back to being with her full-time. Proper training is so very important to us and raising a child who is loving, kind, sensitive, and polite is very important. The Bible teaches about how training is an important part of being blessed with the life of a child; and we strive to make the Lord proud and teach Sierra how important it is to obey Mama and Daddy and the Lord’s commands. It just is so hard for us to train properly when we are only with her for 3 (awake) hours a day. Thankfully Brian is now able to be with her more, as his schedule allows; but she needs the stability and constant routine; just another reason why I can’t wait to finish up this internship.

Here are some shots of Sierra at 18 months old: loving her baby doll, showing how not to hold her baby, imitating Mama (who does A LOT of computer work these days), and sitting in her big girl chair that Daddy got her, eating a snack all by her self! :)

I really wanted to do a 16 week update (4 weeks ago!!!!) and never got around to doing it. Now, we are almost 21 weeks pregnant and having to “share” a posting about Sierra and this growing baby. Already this new baby has to “share” with his/her big sister, even when still in the womb. O’well, I guess such is life when you are #2.

After my 16 week check up, several weeks ago, I looked back at this post and saw that basically everything was the same. I had no weight gain at 16 weeks and I am currently still throwing up about 1 time per day. I went a week with no sickness, but it returned and has been hanging around and causing me to get sick about once every morning for the past couple weeks. Here’s hoping it will subside completely soon. The baby’s heart rate was between 140 and 150 beats per minute and s/he even kicked the monitor, just as I was asking my midwife if she thought “kicks” was really what I was feeling. I didn’t feel Sierra move until after 21 weeks or so, but this baby has been pretty active lately, generally in the evening hours. I didn’t really feel consistent movement until about 18 weeks, but I have really been enjoying it and look forward to even more movement in the weeks to come. Also, we have again decided to decline any and all fetal testing, so we made sure to sign all the papers for that during our last appointment as well.

Here is my pregnant belly at 21 weeks:

So, that is about it for us, our 18 month old munchkin is doing great and our 21 week old peanut is growing. As many of you know, tomorrow afternoon is the big ultrasound and we CAN NOT wait to see our little one on the screen. I am excited to see a healthy heart and growing peanut. Believing all is in the Lord’s hands and thankful that He is protecting our growing little one. We are also hoping to find out the gender of our newest addition and will be sure to share as soon as I have time. I will also (hopefully) have time to post some cute pictures from the u/s.

Thanks for checking in with us and continuing to keep our family in your prayers. God bless!!!

New Job

As most of you know, I will begin my Student Teaching Internship in 2 weeks time. I am very excited, but also nervous about writing all kinds of lesson plans, doing a great job, and most of all leaving my sweet kiddo with a babysitter all day, every day. My life as I have known it over the past 2 years and especially the past 16 months will definitely be taking a different turn for the next 16 weeks. However, that is not the "new job" I spoke of when I titled this post.

Coming this February, I will be taking on a New Job that will change our lives forever. What will my new job title be you ask???

I will go from "Mama to ONE" to

"Mama to TWO"!!!!!!!!

Yep! That's right, on or around February 24th, we will become a family of 4!!!! Words can not express how excited we are about this wonderful blessing and we continue to thank the Lord for giving us this blessing of new life. He certainly provides and we are so thankful!

This morning we had an appointment with our midwife and were able to hear the baby's heartbeat for the first time. Oh, what a wonderful sound it is!!! We are currently into our 13th week of pregnancy and the baby is doing very well. The heart rate sounded strong and healthy and was beating around the mid to high 150's. Even Sierra enjoyed hearing the noise on the Doppler, although she is still too young to understand that Mama has a baby in her womb; but we are sure that she is going to be the best big sister!!!

Unfortunately this pregnancy has not provided any relief when it comes to nausea and vomiting. However, I have commented that it is not as bad as it was during my first pregnancy. I am not sure if it really is not as bad, or if it is just because I have Sierra to keep me busy and keep my mind off of it. Either way, I have experienced nausea just about every day and have been vomiting about 1 time per day; but my appointment today revealed only 2 pounds lost since my last appointment 4 weeks ago. The past two days have not been so bad and I am hoping I am on the upswing of things. Time will tell.

We thank you all for your continued prayers for me, our family, and this little darling baby as s/he continues to grow. We will be sure to keep you updated as time goes on.

Sierra's Birth Story

As promised....Better late than never...

*WARNING...THIS IS VERY LONG*


I wrote on Sunday, April 6th that I was having bloody discharge and continuous cramping which continued into Monday, April 7th. I went to bed Monday night (Brian was at work) with no significant changes and just feeling tired because I had not been sleeping well. At 4:30 am I woke up having to use the restroom and feeling the first contractions. I really knew this time that the contractions were real because there was no doubt that these pains were different from any I had felt up to this point.

I spent some time in the bathroom and then tried to lay back down; however the contractions were continuing to come every 10 minutes. Brian was scheduled to get off work at 6 am, so I called him around 5:30 am and asked if maybe he could leave a little early to come home and be with me. Brian came home and the contractions continued throughout the day, staying about 10 minutes apart. I drank all my red raspberry tea, and funny enough, while consuming the tea the contractions were about 5 - 7 minutes apart. I "labored" all day at home. Depending on my activity level (walking increased the contractions, laying down slowed them), the contractions were any where between 5 minutes to 15 minutes apart. Unfortunately there was no consistency.

Around 7 am Wednesday morning (26 1/2 hours after contractions started), we called our midwife. I truly was exhausted and had not slept, just rested between contractions all night. We went into the midwifery center at 8 am and had an internal exam. Our midwife, disappointingly, told us that we were only dilated 1 cm (and it was her exam that made us 1 cm)!!! Basically, 26 hours of contractions did nothing to open my cervix. She gave us 3 options.

1. Go home and continue to just wait it out
2. Go home with a sleeping aid - hoping that getting some rest would allow my brain to increase oxytocin production and progress the labor
3. Go to Labor and Delivery (risk out of the midwife center) and receive IV morphine and get some rest to help progress labor

Brian and I talked about it and decided that getting me some rest would be best, so we opted to head home and take a sleeping aid (Ambien). I was told to eat something, take the pills, and lay down. We arrived home and I was not very hungry, but managed to take a couple bites of a bagel, I took the pills and according to Brian, was out of it before I even made it upstairs. I fell fast asleep and woke up around 2 pm (about 3 1/2 hours later) to really strong contractions.

When I woke up my contractions were about 2 - 3 minutes apart and they were longer and stronger. I could no longer talk during them and they were much more painful. Brian and I continued to monitor them and after about an hour, decided to call our midwife. She advised us to come to the center at that point.

When we arrived at the center, our midwife, Nell, did a cervical exam. Honestly, everyone was expecting me to be at least 5 cm dilated at this point. However, after the exam, my cervix was only dilated a disappointing 2 cm!!!! Nell explained our options at that point. We had been in labor for 36 hours by then and she was very concerned about me and the baby and our exhaustion levels. Our options were limited. Basically our only option was to get an epidural, have my water broken and be administered pitocin. Nell left the room to talk to my mother and let Brian and I have some time to talk to one another. At that moment I was feeling so broken. Brian and I embraced one another and sobbed. We knew we had to do what was best for me and for the baby, but everything we had prayed about and prepared for was no longer an option; amid the exhaustion, I feel like Brian and I were both at our lowest points at that single moment.

Nell had given us another option, to break my water and get pitocin and see what happens. However, her fear was that I would do great getting to 10 cm and then be entirely too tired to push the baby out, especially considering my exhaustion level already. We decided to do what would be best for the baby and take the "full cocktail" - epidural, broken water, pitocin".

So around 6pm the "cocktail" was administered and I did well during the administration of the epidural (although they basically read you your rights before giving it - I think my mother was having trouble with that part.) :)

I was so thankful to have my family there with me and having Nell continue to monitor me. Brian was my rock throughout the whole thing and he even was able to sneak in some Popsicles for me! We convinced the nurse to let me eat them and after she saw me eat 2 in a matter of 30 minutes, she recommended that I limit it to only 1 every hour. :) My family left to go eat dinner and Brian and I were able to get some rest. After they ate dinner, around 8:30pm, they came back up to our room to say good night and my mom told Brian to call her when I started pushing.

Brian and I continued to rest and around 11pm they came in to check me, I was already dilated 9 cm! The "cocktail" was working! They said they would be back in an hour to check me again and at that point they turned the epidural down (thank God)! However, they did not turn the pitocin down. Almost as soon as the nurse walked out of the room I started having major contractions and LOTS of pressure. I told Brian the baby was coming right then (at least it certainly felt like it). Around 11:30 pm the nurse came back in and I told her I was ready to push. She didn't believe me (of course), but I was really feeling the contractions and the pain! She decided to check me and she said "oh yeah, the baby is right there".

Around 12 am (midnight) they turned the epidural off (which again, I was so thankful for, even though the pain was intense, I wanted to be able to feel everything and push on my own). I started pushing and pushing and pushing. She had me push on my back a few times, then on my side, then again on my back. At one point the nurse said I was almost ready to deliver, so she went to go call for my midwife. She left the room and it was just Brian and I in there, alone, pushing together, with Brian doing all the counting for me and giving me ice chips in between contractions. I would not have been able to do it with out him! He was amazing!!!

Nell came in the room and was able to use the Castor oil that we brought with us. As the head was crowning, they pour Castor oil over the baby's head and it helps to relieve the pain you feel in that area, at that moment. Finally, the head was out and I heard Nell say, "reach down and pull your baby out". :) That was the best moment!!! I basically delivered my own baby, I reached down and grabbed Sierra and pulled her out and onto my chest. What a glorious feeling!!!

Unfortunately, after one short cry, Sierra started to "grunt" or sound wheezy (as we would say). They were telling me to pat her back and rub her back, but nothing was helping. They quickly took her from me and called the nursery for a specialized nurse. Everything was happening so fast and Brian just stood there next to me, holding my hand as we prayed that God would take care of her and help her to breath. I remember I just kept repeating, "Please Lord, help her breath, open her lungs, let her cry Lord". We were wanting so desperately to hear her cry! Brian just kept telling me, "she is okay, she is going to be okay". He seemed so rock solid at the moments when I needed him to be.

Soon they wrapped her up and brought her over to my bedside and told me that she had to go to the nursery. The nurse said, "Say Bye to Mommy" and as they took her away, she was completely purple and my heart was breaking. Nell assured me that she would be okay and that the nursery would take great care of her. Brian left with the baby and the nursery crew and I really felt at peace about the whole thing, I knew God was going to take care of her.

A little while later, my family came in to see me. They were all wondering where the baby was and when were they going to be able to hold her and see her. I was yearning for all the same things! I was feeling tired and overwhelmed and disappointed. The doctor came in a few minutes later with news that Sierra's lungs were filled with fluid and the chest x-ray possibly might be showing signs of pneumonia and she might have a blood infection. All of which turned out negative, praise God; she simply ingested a TON of fluid during the labor and delivery (She was diagnosed with TTN - Transient Tachypnea of the Newborn). However, the docs have a way of scaring you into thinking about all the possibilities.

Following delivery, I was taken to my room and given IV fluids, I was dehydrated and running a slight fever and extremely exhausted! Around 5 am we were finally able to see and touch Sierra, pretty much for the first time. She looked pitiful with all the tubes and wires, but she was beautiful! 24 hours later we were able to hold her and about 36 hours after delivery, I was finally given the chance to nurse her for the first time.

Although I had come to terms about the labor and delivery process not being natural like Brian and I had hoped for; for many days I had feelings of being "cheated". I was so emotional that I missed the bonding time the first 24 hours of her life and the chance to nurse right away, etc. With all that said though, I am thankful for a healthy and happy baby girl. My whole life thus far has been about God using circumstances to teach me to place the Glory and Honor back on Him; Sierra's birth story is just another one of those ways that I can honor and glorify God for the miraculous work He has done. We thank Him daily for our precious miracle! We know she is truly a gift from Him and we are honored that He has entrusted us with her life.


*Side Note* - Nell told us that Sierra came out head first, with her arm and elbow up next to her head. Nell exclaimed "Your pelvis is amazing to be able to deliver all that!" Not sure how amazing I felt pushing all that out, but it seems as though this was the reason that (without the assistance of the pitocin) my cervix was not opening up properly after 36 hours of labor. Later that weekend, my mom ran into my labor and delivery nurse that checked me in, (her shift had ended at 11pm and she was not there for the birth). She asked my mother how things went and when my mom told her that we were able to have a vaginal birth, she said "oh good, I didn't want to tell you all, but they were talking about the "C" word". Thank God I didn't end up with a cesarean, but I guess it was definitely something that was being discussed...I am glad it didn't end up that way! Praise God!

Up 10, Down 20!

I consistently joked throughout our pregnancy that being pregnant is a great weight-loss plan, at least in our case. However, I don't recommend trying it at home. :)

As most of you know, I was extremely sick until I was 21 weeks pregnant and I ended up losing an estimated 13 pounds. I finally started to gain some weight (and lose some more) during our third trimester. On the day I went into labor, I was up 10 pounds total! :)

The other day I got on the scale and I am now down 20 pounds - the 10 I gained, and 10 additional! I could not contain my excitement. I actually weigh less today than I did on our wedding day, 10 months ago. I am hoping that this continues and I can start exercising more and get rid of this baby belly pouch that I am currently sporting (got to love stretched out skin).

Not only is the weight lose a cool thing; but the other day, I put on and wore my regular pre-pregnancy jeans! It was an amazing feeling! :) Maybe I will be able to get some of those cool golf shorts that I saw at the store and wear them this summer after all.

Just for fun, here is the evolution of Sierra in my womb...
(click on image for larger view)

"Baby Blues" Are For Real...

I have known many women that have battled the "baby blues" following pregnancy and being the girl that I am, I really thought I could avoid it.

Not saying that I am better than anyone else, but honestly I thought it just wouldn't happen to me, and even if it did, I would be really good at hiding it. I am not one that likes to cry around others, or even by myself. I have always thought that the only thing crying accomplishes is that it makes your nose run and your face look red and horrible.

However, yesterday afternoon, it hit me! Like a ton of bricks. I cried for about an hour by myself (Brian was napping) and then cried again on his shoulder for another 30 minutes. I can't explain why the crying is occurring, I am sure hormones have a lot to do with it; but also I am still battling so many emotions about what happened over the past week of my life.

Many people have asked how and what happened during our labor and delivery and honestly, I do plan to write Sierra's Birth Story, I just can't bring myself to getting it out yet. Every time I even start to think about writing it, I break down. I am afraid when I do get around to writing it, the post is going to be very "raw".

Please continue to pray for us. Don't get me wrong though, among the feelings of disappointment, wishing I was still pregnant and could go back and do something differently, and feeling like I let Brian and Sierra down; I am also over joyed and totally in love with my little package that arrived exactly how God planned, even if I don't understand it all here on this earth. I promise, her amazing birth story, which demonstrates how much God is ALWAYS in control will soon make its way to this blog soon.

Stand-By

Quick update....

We have been in active labor since 4:30 am this morning! Praise God!!! I woke up to strong contractions that were consistently 10 minutes apart and more bloody discharge. I waited it out till about 5:30 am and then decided to call Brian and ask him to come home a few minutes early (his shift ends at 6 am normally).

Since then, my contractions have been any where from 5 minutes to 12 minutes apart (depends on my position). I have been feeling exhausted and when I lay down and sleep between contractions they seem to come further apart; although that stinks, the "shut-eye" between contractions is wonderful!

We talked to our midwife around 7:30 am and she said that this stage of labor could last all day (fun fun fun!) and that we are to call back when the contractions are 5 minutes apart for 2 straight hours. She said we most likely will not need to come to the birthing center until I am contracting every 3 minutes.

Brian is asleep right now and has been since about 9am - Thankfully!!! He worked a 12 hour shift last night and I know he is exhausted. As my labor coach, I am really going to need him later in labor, so I wanted him to get as much rest as possible. I am so very thankful for the free online Contraction Timer - I can easily keep track of the contractions, frequency and duration, without having to look at a watch or write anything down. This allows me to focus on my relaxation techniques and work through the contractions.

I can't guarantee that we will write another update before we leave for the hospital, but hopefully we will have real baby news in the next 24 hours!!!

Please keep praying for a safe and speedy delivery! Love to all!

***You can always check my sister's blogs, they may have more updates this evening - Kirsten or Katie

Show Time?

I know everyone is waiting and checking, and waiting and checking....trust me, we are waiting too!

I certainly can't complain though, it seems as though my body (and baby) are doing exactly what God naturally intended for it to do, I am just finding out that it isn't much fun to have a slow start to your labor; However, this beats induction or a need for intervention any day, in my opinion.

I will give you the update, but I will warn you first, for those that are extremely modest or have never given birth, this might be a little too much information and you might want to stop reading. :)

For the past 29 hours now I have had a continuous bloody discharge; every time I use the restroom I am seeing a mucus discharge that is tinged with blood, both on the toilet paper and in the toilet bowl. (Click on the words "bloody discharge" for more information). Apparently, this is a GREAT sign! A sign that fooled me into thinking yesterday was going to be THE day, but a sign none-the-less. Last night I was experiencing contractions (finally, I thought) - real contractions this time, exactly how they were explained to me. They were coming about 15 - 20 minutes apart; but I was feeling so extremely tired, I decided to go to bed.

I awoke every hour to use the restroom, which is not abnormal at this stage in my pregnancy, and was still having contractions at those times as well; however, I am not sure if the contractions were waking me up or if the full bladder was causing it. Now that I have been up for today, I am still having contractions about one every hour, nothing too exciting though. For some reason I have been feeling super exhausted and have been trying to rest; at some points, it is hard for me to even keep my eyes open. I read that some women get a burst of energy and some women are fatigued during early labor, guess I am the latter.

That is about all we have to report at this time. I will try to continue to keep you all updated. I am definitely in Pre-Labor; but when will active labor actually start...only God knows! :)

Thanks for the continued prayers. :)
Be sure to also check out Brian's Blog to read his cute little poem about how we are "patiently waiting".

Pineapple? Who Knew?

Supposedly, if you eat pineapple you will go into labor. Who knew?

I never knew or even thought that pineapple would be a natural labor inducer, but apparently it is. However, the pineapple has to be fresh, not canned. I have been eating canned pineapple my entire pregnancy and fresh pineapple when it is around (like at showers on fruit trays and stuff). "They" also say that pineapple can cause miscarriages...like I said, I have been eating pineapple my entire pregnancy, so I am not sure about the research on that one.

But I also have been eating deli meat, changing the litter box, drinking caffeine, and eating hot dogs for the past 9 months as well. So I am just passing along the pineapple insight, as with anything, I recommend doing your own research! :) There are so many things that are listed as "No-No's" in pregnancy; but when you research it, you find out that you have to actually eat 7 whole fresh pineapples just to "maybe" start labor (for example)! :)

I find our society and culture these days to be so humorous!