Savannah is here!

Well it's been 8 weeks since Savannah was born and I fall in love with her more and more each day. My recovery will be something I will always remember. Where do I begin. I had the c-section on Friday June 22, and Savannah was born at 9:42 a.m. I was surprised it was a girl but so excited it was because Kiersten will have a best friend for life. Also I have all the girl stuff. At the hospital I felt good and well, did get sick but that's to be expected. On Saturday I started to get a fever, I told the nurse but she said it was my milk coming in. Then I developed a rash Saturday morning, but I showed the doctor, nurses and everyone seemed to overlook it saying it looked normal. So on Monday when I went home I showed my doctor the incision and she second guessed herself saying it looked fine and the rash was no big deal. So I went to see her on Thursday and the rash had gotten worse and much more itchy. She was surprised but said I must be allergic to the glue and took the glue out, but said she never seen anything like this before, she also gave me some Benadryl for the itching. Well on Sunday night, I sneezed and while I was putting Kiersten to bed, I felt wetness down my leg. I felt as if my water broke, but then I thought to myself, "I am not pregnant anymore". So I ran downstairs covered it with gauze. The next day I went to see my doctor's partner, she said it was a puss pocket and it looked like it was trying to get infected. So she put me on antibiotics. We went to Costco after the appt, and I had so much pain it was unbearable to walk. I just thought it was because I have over done it with walking. On Monday night I felt like I was getting sick, had a fever with chills, and I felt dizzy. I took a shower went to bed, got up during the night with the baby still feeling dizzy. The next morning it got worse, still feeling very dizzy, but no more fever. We were getting ready to take newborn pictures, and I just couldn't walk my speech was slurred. I asked Nick if we should go to the doctor, he asked if I seriously was talking like that. He said to me it sounds like I was having a stroke. So off we went to the ER. We got there and they took me in immediately, had all kinds of tests done, MRI, and Catscan. All came back negative, I showed them my incision and they said it was definitely infected. So I was admitted and spent over night there. Nick was super dad taking care of Kiersten and Savannah who was almost 2 weeks old. At the hospital my doctor's partner came there to look at the incision, and said it was defintly infected, they called wound care come to look at it, they cleaned it and packed it, told me I was going to have a wound vac put on it. The next day they cleaned it and packed it again. I started to feel better. The verdict for me feeling dizzy was dehydration. It was a blessing that I did go to the ER for dehydration because I finally got the attention to my wound that I was needing, because everyone was blowing it off! On Friday I got my wound vac, it was this machine, that would be connected to my wound, sucking out all the drainage. I would have it with me 24 hours only to take it off to shower. But showering was not fun because I still had to cover the tapes. The next 2 weeks, I had to go to the wound clinic 3 times a week to get my dressing changed. It was the most stressful time I have ever experienced. Everything was getting on my nerves, Kiersten had defintly tested my patience, you can say I was getting depressed, I just wanted to get use this new life with my new precious baby but there was this huge bump in the road. Nick would have to take off work to watch the girls, it was so hard for me to get myself ready plus the girls carrying this thing around. We were constantly late. The PT who was changing my dressing told me, I had MRSA in the wound. Guess I got that from the hospital! So after a week, he wanted to get it reswabbed for the infection, I had been off antibiotics for about a week. So I went to my family doctor because I had broken out in a rash with bumps, and told him what was going on and he gave me some q-tip things to have the wound care swab the wound for infection. Well on July 20, I had the wound vac taken off, I had it on for 2 weeks, they were surprised how well it was healing and closing. Nick had to pack it daily. The results came back and had 3 microorganisms in there; MRSA, pseudomonas aeruginosa, klebisella pneumoniae. My doctor was going to send me to an infectious disease doctor. The next day I went to see my OB, and told her what was going on, she did not seem at all concerned, she said you have no symptoms, it's not in your blood, and the wound is healing fine. So she wasn't going to suggest antibiotics because it's resistant to most antibiotics and the over use of antibiotics is not good as well. So on Thursday we went to see the infectious disease doctor and he agreed with my OB, so just to get that second opionion especially from a person who was trained in that area made me feel better. So i was still going to the clincic, 2 times per week, and he was impressed how much it had closed in 4 days. So he released me. YAY! So that next week. I went to see my OB and she said I didn't have to dress it anymore. It could heal on its own with no dressing. Finally done with doctor appts. I was at the doctor almost everyday for the first 6 weeks. I still cleaned it out with saline. But after looking at it yesterday I would say it is pretty darn good healed up. No more kids for me, I am writing this so I can remind myself about this! Poor Kiersten every time we went in the car she would say we go to the doctor. On a much happier note. Kiersten loves her little sister. We sang Happy Birthday and had cupcakes at the hospital when Savannah was born. Savannah Gave her the dollhouse and she loved playing with it. She also helped me put lotion on the baby. She absolutely loves the baby and does not want to be separated from her. She helps with changing the diaper, let's me know she is crying because she is hungry. Helps putting the pacifier in her mouth. Kiersten gives her kisses, shares her toys, hugs her and tickles her. I am so thrilled she really loves her sister. Sometimes too much, but she really is doing well with the whole transition. She has become my big girl, she helps me to cook, laundry and with Savannah. She starts school in 2 weeks, and I am trying to do a lot of stuff with her. We went to the aquarium, and plan on going to do a few more fun stuff. She has become a great swimmer and can swim by herself in the hot tub. On Monday she starts dance and Wednesday swim. Savannah is officially 2 months now, she started smiling around 4 weeks, and eats about every 2 1/2-3 hours sometimes will go 4 at night. She loves to be rocked to sleep, she still sleeps a lot, but in the morning she is up and in a great mood, smiling, talking and cooing. She got her shots today, she was not happy. She also has allergies so I am just using the syringe, which she does not like. She weighs 11lbs 3.5oz, 50 percentile, 22 1/2 inches long, 50 percentile and a small head only 4 percentile. I am slowly getting into a routine but feeling much better. I am loving life right now!

Not much time left

As this week draws to a close, I have so much anxiety. First, how do you prepare yourself for major surgery, a life changing event, and not spending time with your sweet baby girl like your use to. Well you can't! So I am just doing the best I can with the situation. Last week we didn't have playgroup on Monday and she really missed playing with her friends. We just swam all day on Monday it was really nice. Tuesday we had lunch after my doctor appt, then Wednesday I took Kiersten to the movies to see Madasgasgar 2, she did really well and liked it. Thursday we met Nick for lunch at Rainforest cafe, Kiersten enjoyed it. Then we went to visit a friend for a few minutes. Friday Kiersten and I went swimming with some friends and she enjoyed it! Kiersten has done really well in her big girl room, it's just so beautiful! On Friday the baby's furniture came, and we had some friends stay with us and they have a little girl almost a year. Kiersten loved playing with her! Then Saturday night we took Kiersten to a Habachi place, she liked it. Sunday we got the nursery ready. Monday we had playgroup here, today I bought Kiersten a dollhouse and I will give it to her on Friday from the baby. Tomorrow we don't have much planned, but Thursday will be a busy day. It's my last day with Kiersten so I am going to get my haircut, then take her to lunch with Nick, then do paperwork at the hospital, and then take her to bowl. Then at night we will go to dinner, all 3 of us for the last time. I don't know if I ever will be ready, but I am definitely anxious about meeting the little one, the sex, and what it looks like. I guess what I am mostly nervous about is having a c-section my recovery time as well as being able to take care of Kiersten. I hope all goes well, and I am freaking out over nothing. I also hope I do well being away from Kiersten and she does well being away from me. We are attached at the hip.

Kiersten is officially a big girl!

Memorial weekend was both fun and tiring. I had my shower that Saturday. It was awesome, the decorations and food were perfect. The theme was circus, the food and decorations fit the theme perfect. The best part was the kettle corn favors..YUM! Kristin had so many great ideas, she is just so creative. There also was a great turnout, got so many great gifts and I am greatful to everyone that made it. After the shower I came home and had to get food ready for Cheyenne's birthday party, then took a nap with Kiersten. When she woke up we ate and swam, had cake and just had fun. The rest of the weekend, was nice just ate, hangout and swam. Nick and I went on our last date since my parents were here. We had dinner at an Italian restaurant and seen a movie. It was fun! Last week we didn't do much just relaxed....which I need a lot of. Friday we had maternity pictures I can wait to see them. Kiersten did really good....I am so proud of her! Then Nick had a dinner to go to so I took Kiersten to the aquarium, then we ate dinner, then I treated myself to a Coach diaper bag, as we we're leaving Grapevine had fireworks so we sat and watched them. It was a really great night. I love spending time with Kiersten and I know it will change but I hope she and I will be okay with it emotionally. Saturday Nick went to Texarkana to bring some furniture we had there, and I am unable to travel Kiersten and I stayed home shopped, ate lunch, napped, swam and went to bed. Starting Sunday I said I was going to start potty training Kiersten. She sat on the potty and went, so I put underwear on her and she had an accident, I thought to myself this is going to be a long drawn out process. She went a few more times in the potty but I was prepared for a lot of messes to clean up. Much to my surprise she had no accidents on Monday, stayed dried in her diaper all day, even during nap. She went pee every time I put her on the potty. She has had no accidents in her underwear yet....knock on wood. She has stayed dry durng most of our outings, I try not to stay gone long, I did buy potty protectors for her to use on public bathrooms. She had even asked to use it while we are home, and during our outings. She even pooped in it, which I thought would never happen! Needless to say how proud I am of her. I am actually enjoying this. If she continues to do good I will buy her big girl panties and see how that goes, and just put her in pull ups at nighttime and naps. This week we were getting the last finishing touches on the rooms. The beadboard was put up and painted today. Saturday her furniture will be here. I am excited for 2 reasons. As much as I love cuddling with her in bed, I can't get real comfy, she is a snuggler and right now I just want my space. Also nick and I get to decorate it, so I will be happy everything will be in order soon. I just hope she does alright after sleeping with us for over a week. The baby's furniture should be in any day now too. If babiesrus could figure out what they are doing! Next week I have a few fun things planned for us, An outing with one of her friends from school, then maybe a movie.

Busy busy busy!

Last week I forgot to blog about Kiersten's end of school program. She did not do as good as i Thought she would. She did not take a nap at school, so we came home and she finally fell asleep at 4:30, but she had to wake up at 5:30 and she was not happy. So she was cranky, and in a bad mood when she got to school. She cheered up a bit, did some dancing with the other kids at school, but mostly picked her nose! I was mortified all I can think of was everyone is lookin at her and saying "look at that little girl picking her nose".....haha! She did do better at dancing and singing than the rest of her class, when she got going she did very well! Friday I did decide to take Kiersten bowling, of course she loved it and her score was better than mine. Granted she had bumpers. That's okay, I will let her win. We had pizza and played 1 game and we were ready to head home for a nap. Friday night we went to music on the green, she did really well playing with the other kids. I just love watching her interact with other kids, she is so sweet! Saturday we hung out at the house until 7, then we went to Pottery Barn to buy her new bedding. I am so jealous of her. She is going to be sleeping in style. It's pink, blue and green, flowers. All my favorite colors. We also bought her a twin bed, a nightstand, lamp, chair, hamper. We will buy the rest when we get our $300 gift card in for spending over $100. This week has been very busy for us. Monday we had to go food shopping, then to babiesrus to buy baby H a crib set. Kiersten was driving me crazy, I know it was because she was bored but she was such a trooper. I miss MDO when I have a lot of errands to do, but I also enjoy spending time with her no matter how bad she is. Anyway we bought the crib, changing table and dresser. Then it was home with all the construction. My House was like a zoo when we left. We had people doing woodwork on the first floor, then men putting hardwood floor in the 2 rooms upstairs. So I was glad to leave. Tuesday I took Kiersten to Sealife and of course she loved every minute of it. We met a friend there and her son, it was nice to socialize with someone other than my 2 yr old. Then I took Kiersen to Rainforest cafe, she enjoyed when the animals would do their thing. She was not scared at all. Then it was off to buy some candy since she was so good. Then home for a nap, then we went to Lowes that evening, and Kiersten helped me plant some flowers. She did so good, I was so proud of her. She would listen to directions and help with cleaning up. Today we had painters come so that meant Kiersten and I left for most of the day, just went shopping. Then I had to go to the doctor and she was okay, no she was good given that we had to wait a while and she is 2. I started potty training Kiersten on Sunday she went so far 3 times on the potty. She has been holding her pee for a while so I said she has good bladder control, but she has not gone in a while I think she gets bored sitting there. It takes her 20 minutes to go. But after she goes I will give her a sucker. I will sing songs to her, give her praise if she goes. Yesterday I put her on the potty before nap and she was so sleepy she fell asleep on the potty. I wished I took a pic of it, so I just took her off and we took a nap. This weekend is going to be super busy, we are going to get ready for it tomorrow. Our family is coming to stay the long weekend, then we are having my neice's birthday swim party here. Thank goodness the weather has been warm, so the pool will be nice. Nick is taking off to help with shopping. Looking forward to a fun filled weekend!

School is out!

It feels like summer out today, it's 89 but feels like 109. Last weekend, we took Kiersten to the Rangers game, I was dreading taking her because I just knew she was going to be bad. I was even planning on things to do while the game was going on. But she was really great! It rained so we were stuck in the car for about 1 1/2 hours. But she watched the game and was so into it. She clapped when everyone else clapped, she watched the fireworks when there was a home run, she played on my phone, and was just so well behaved. We stood until the fireworks, which she loved but since the game was delayed, the fireworks did not start until after midnight. But she feel asleep at the end. But she was so good for being so tired! The next day we were all so tired. Nick and I felt like we had a hangover....we just cannot hang like we use to! The next day was Mother's Day, we went to church, came home had lunch then we were off to a train ride. Nick bought me a charm for my bracelet and it was the charm I wanted and he didn't even know. So great job Nick! It's a onesie then after the baby is here I can put the name and dob and weight. Kiersten was so excited for the train ride, we were in first class so she did not get to ride with the windows up, but we will do it again....I'm sure! We walked the stockyards, she got to see some animals,they had a petting zoo, but we had to leave the petting area fast because she was itching and turning red. After that she fell asleep and missed the Cattledrive, but there is always next time. After that we went to dinner and Kiersten ate pretty good and acted pretty good too. This was her last week of school, it's bittersweet. I will miss my free time, but I always miss her. I signed up for 2 weeks for camp for Kiersten at Winkids probably some time in July. And I know she will miss it too, she always has lots of fun! She use run to her classroom. I also started potty training her well, kinda. She will sit on the potty but she won't do anything, and I also have not been consistent. But I will start putting her in big girl underwear once we are home for good. Kiersten and I have been talking a lot about the baby and getting her ready. I think she will be good! Last Thursday I took her to the duck pond, she had a blast feeding and looking at them. She also had fun playing on the equipment. She is talking a lot more which is nice. Yesterday I took her to brillant sky and bought her lots of new toys. We then went swimming in our pool. But this morning she woke up warm but did not have a fever, but when I picked her up from school she was burning up, so I gave her Tylenol and she had a fever of 100. I hate this part of being a mommy, i hate to see her sick. She is playing right now,so at least that is a good sign. I was going to take her to Main event tomorrow but I think we will just stay home. Next week is Memeorial weekend, I am excited because it's my shower and we get to celebrate Baby Hines'. Its also my neice's birthday party here Saturday night. Also it means summer is here!

Spending time with Kiersten

Last weekend my parents were here, Kiersten had a great time with them. We went shopping, went to eat, shopped some more, went swimming and hung out at home. Kiersten has been doing great at school, she is really enjoying school, loves going and playing with her friends and singing and dancing at chapel. Last Friday I took Kiersten to the park in Lantana, and there is a little watering hole. She got to look at the turtles and loved just looking at them and we found some fish to look at too. I just love spending time with Kiersten. I am hoping it will continue when the baby comes. May is shaping up like April. We are going to be busy every weekend. I have some chores for Nick to do around the house but we need to be home to get them done. I enjoy doing these things but at the same time I want to get things done. This weekend was fun. We went to Music on the green, it's music here in Lantana a band will come and play for a couple hours. Kiersten was surprisingly good. She stood near us but still had room to play with her friends. Friday was a busy day for us. We got our haircut, ate some lunch, and then got our feet done and she got her nails done. She was so into it, I am so glad she will be my little pedicure buddy. She also loves putting makeup on, whenever I am getting ready she thinks she needs make up too. On Saturday we went to a dairy farm and seen some cows, Kiersten had fun looking at the cows. We got to drink fresh milk too. It was surprisingly good! Then we were off to a gender reveal party, it was out of town so it was a drive, but Kiersten fell asleep and we all had a good time while we were there. Kiersten had a good time too, she got to play with other little kids, and run around. Lindsay is going to have a boy...so awesome. Now I can't wait to find out what I am having! Today we went to church and did good going back to the nursery after being gone for a month, we went swimming then took a nap. The it was time for a baby shower we went to. Kiersten had fun running around in the yard and playing with a little girl there. Harper was there and she's 3 months old. Kiersten just LOVED her, she watched her be changed then she played with her by tickling her and making funny faces at her. I told Kiersten to blow a kiss but she wanted to give her a kiss, I love at she is so sweet. I hope it continues for baby Hines. I have been so busy during the week I went to register. I felt like a chicken with my head cut off, but it was def fun. I also. Even spending a lot of my spare time sewing. I am going to work on another pillowcase dress for my niece's birthday. We got in the stroller, car seat, and bouncer in. I love them all and can't wait to use them! I have been nesting,I am getting our entire first floor redecorated, thankfully I am getting help from a redecorater. Next week is Mother's Day I am curious to see what Nick has up his sleeve.

Seaworld

We have been back from Seaworld over a week and I am just know writing this post....I have been busy. Seaworld was a blast. We were there for Wednesday to Sunday. Kiersten decided to fall asleep as we were getting into San Antionio. But she didn't sleep very long, when we got there her and I went swimming in the indoor pool, it was cold so we did not stay in long. After that we had dinner then came back to the hotel room and got ready for the next day. Thursday morning we got to Seaworld about 10. We fed some Seals, had our tour and watched a show. We also got our pictures taken with Clyde the Seal, and got to pet him. It was awesome, Kiersten was a little hesitant and so was I. He was large. We watched some shows, she just sat there and was memorized. She began to get a little antsy toward the end of the shows. We walked around looked at some exhibits and then headed back to the hotel about 2:30. During the week the park closes at 5 so I was glad we did not wipe ourselves out and spent all day there. After that we took a nap went to dinner and came back to relax and get ready for the next day. Friday morning Kiersten was going to have breakfast with Elmo and friends. Of course she loved every minute of it! She was not scared and gave each character a high five, blew a kiss amd hug them, and took her picture with them. She loved Elmo, and Zoey, and was mesmerized by how large Big Bird was. They spent an hour with us, they played games, and it was kind of annoying since there was not a lot of people there, they sat at our table so it was uncomfortable eating with them there. Anyway we all took our picture with them and had fun. We watched some more shows, rode some rides then looked at more exhibits and then headed back to the hotel, took a nap and went to dinner came back to the Hotel and relaxed. The next morning we got to Seaworld and had breakfast then we had the dolphin tour, he got our picture taken with the dolphin fed them and touched them....it was awesome to see how smart they are. Then we headed to a San Anotonio tradition called Fiesta but it was a cluster so we decided to go to the Riverwalk and just eat some lunch. Then we headed back to the room rested for a bit then went back to Seawolrd for the night shows. Kiersten loved watching them, she was so into them. I would have to say so myself, they were pretty awesome. Especially the one with Shamu, what an amazing animal that is! The next day we sadly returned home and back to reality with lots of souvenirs for Kiersten and memories.

All about me

On Tuesday I had my doctor appt and I gained 30 lbs I can't believe that much so far. I hope it's not that much more, I know I am suppose to gain more within the coming weeks, but i hope it's not a lot more. But baby sounded good, heart rate was 144, so it think its a boy still. I am going to the doctor every 3 weeks now. Baby is still moving a lot, especially at night. But today it has been lazy. But whenever I get worried I listen to the heartbeat, and I love that Kiersten likes to listen to it too with me! This past weekend, I bought a double stroller, and car seat, and a bouncer. This Tuesday 5/15, I went to the doctor again. I gained 5.5 pounds.....what how did this happen. I know you are suppose to gain most of your weight at the end but I don't want to tip the scales....ha ha! New things with me is heartburn, I get it really bad at night so I have been taking tums. I wonder if this means the baby will have hair! Baby is moving a lot, I can start to feel body parts, it so neat. It oves around a lot especially at night when I am trying to go to sleep. I will have to change positions sometimes to get comfy. Sleeping has not been very good, between potty breaks, heartburn, unusual umcofortableness, and trouble breathing it has been hard to get a good nights sleep. I have been having a hard time breathing, I can feel the babies legs in my chest area. So at night I have to sleep propped up. Sleeping on my side is getting uncomfortable, my hips will hurt if I sleep on one side for too long, so I am constantly turning, I bought another pillow so hopefully that will help. I go back in 2 more weeks. It's getting closer. Next week is my shower.....I am so excited for it! Just a quick update, yesterday I had seen some blood when i went to the bathroom. So i called the emergency line and he told me it sounds like nothing, but to come in and see the doctor. My cervix might be dilating. I wasnt too concerned because i still felt the baby and listened to the heartbeat, but wanted to make sure. So I went in today and the cervix was closed and nothing was going on, I told her I been doing a lot, she said its your body telling you to slow down. She also said I just need to make it to 35 weeks which is tomorrow, so she made me feel good. I absolutely love my doctor! Went to the doctor on Tnursday had a really good visit. We talked about being induced on June 25th. Talked about having a VBAC, what my chances were on having another C-section. And about the doctor knowing beforehand and planning ahead for a c-section. This week at the doctors office I did not gain any weight, actually lost some from last week, but I think it's because I had just ate lunch last week. The baby's heart rate was 160, this time. The NP checked my cervix the baby's head was still high and my cervix was closed so no baby yet. As we get closer, Nick is getting anxious, I am too but I am not looking forward to lack of sleeping. I just want to make it to 39 weeks. We still have a lot to do before baby gets here. Hopefully this weekend we can go though some old stuff and see what we can reuse again. Had some bleeding today but I am not too worried, it was no big deal last time, so I am hoping it's my body getting ready for labor. Last week's appt was good, we decided I would have to have a c section, and we would plan it for June 22nd. My cervix has not dilated and the head is still way up high. No weight gain. Today's appt went well, had some questions answered answered, and final arrangements for Friday, no changes in cerix, still long and hard, best of all no weight gain!

Spring Is In The Air

I know spring is here because there is always so much to do. Where do I begin? The first week of April was Easter. Kiersten participated in many Easter egg hunts, at school, at playgroup and at home. We had a Easter egg hunt at playgroup at one of the kids backyards. He has a beautiful backyard with lots of space, Kiersten did okay, but I think she was preoccupied with everything else around her. Then at school she had one, then on Easter Sunday at Mimi and Papaw's house. She did great considering she was so sleepy and then got bit by fire ants ......again, like last year! Needless to say I had to buy many eggs and candy. I also made her, Cheyenne, and Alex their own baskets. Kiersten's basket was so full I had to take some stuff out. Mainly there was a Mickey Mouse, a Mickey video, book, painting stuff, and probably more I can't remember. Surprisingly, Kiersten LOVED the Easter Bunny! We went to the mall in Texarkana, so I said well let's see what she does because she was petrified of Santa. But she was so excited the see the Easter Bunny, the ducks and just everything around him. We got some great pictures! She also got to color some Easter eggs at my mom's house, she enjoyed that very much! The next week we had to go back to Texarkana because Nick's aunt died and he was a pallbearer, so it was a quick trip! That weekend The kids were coming with Mimi and Pawpaw. But first that Friday we went to Thomas the train. She got to jump in a Thomas jumpee house, color some pictures, gets stamps, and finally ride the train. She loved riding this train more than the A train because the windows were open and she got to stick her head out and feel the wind. She had a blast......and so did I! We had lunch then came home. On Saturday We went to Carter's birthday party, she had a blast! It was at a bowling alley so I thought she would be running around, but she actually got to bowl she did fabulous! She ate pizza and cake and then played some games.....she had so much fun. I am definitely going to take her back to the same place. We are going to add this to our lists of outings to do. After the party, we went to the aquarium, and of course she had a great time looking at he fish and being with her cousins. She just loves Cheyenne, and Alex. I have been taking Kiersten shopping with me, and she has been doing really good! I am just loving all this special time I am having with her. As I write this we are on our way to Seaworld San Antonio. I know she is going to have a blast and it will be nice to get away for a while. So looking forward to this trip for all of us! My parents will visit us next weekend, then finally we can take it easy!

The Great Outdoors

On Friday I took Kiersten to take her pictures with the Bluebonnets. She did not want to smile, if she knows you are taking a picture she will look the other way......so annoying. All in all I got some good pics. Then we met Nick and went to the aquarium. She absolutely loved it! Some highlights were when Kiersten saw a fish or something she thought was awesome she would say, "look", she loved the stingray, sea turtles, and shark. She was afraid to walk over the glass where the sharks were. That evening we went to eat at a restaurant and got to sit next to a pond where ducks were, she loved looking at the ducks. She would say, "look". On Saturday we took Kiersten fishing, she enjoyed the experience and atmosphere. But not a big fan of touching the fish or the actual patience of fishing. But she kept herself occupied by playing with the lure and some branches. On Sunday we took her to a farm and she got to pet some baby goats, she loved it! She would say look "goats", chickens". She had fun. We have really been taking advantage of enjoying this beautiful weather.
Tuesday she went back to school and was ready to go. She had fun as always! On Wednesday she went to swim, then we had some lunch with friends, since it as still early and we were in Grapevine, we went to the aquarium, she loved it like it was her first time to go there. I can see us going there weekly now that I have the annual pass. today at school was Western day she dressed up with some cowboy boots and cowboy hat and a cowboy looking skirt. She looked so cute! I think she had fun wearing it too!
Kiersten has been painting and coloring a lot. So I decided to make her another smock, this time it's a fun fabric and I call it a shirt. She did wear it this week, I was so excited!

Spring Break

Kiersten has been on spring break this week and I have been trying to do things to keep her busy. So Tuesday we went to Legoland, she had fun playing in the Lego pits. We had some lunch afterwards then I took her to Build a bear, she built a puppy....she was so excited about it because we got to buy the puppy some pajamas. Then she fell asleep in the car but slept for a long time. Then I braved a trip with her to Walmart, surprisingly she did really good. Granted I gave her donuts while we shopped, but hey whatever works! Tomorrow I am having a friend and her son over to play with us. Friday I am planning on going to the aquarium and I thinking am going to buy season pass. She loves looking at the fish. It will be a good outing in the summer. I also booked our vacation to Seaworld in San Antonio. I am so excited and I know she will love it! It will be in April, and hoping the weather will be nice.
We went to Texarkana last weekend since my parents could not come. We all had a great time, as always Kiersten loved playing with her cousins. 2 weeks my sister and the kids were here and we all went to Magic time machine, it was as I expected but Kiersten had fun. But defintly a one time experience.
Kiersten has become obsessed with coloring and painting. I went to the dollar store and had to stock up on markers and coloring books. I am so glad she enjoys art. She has also took a real liking to Mickey Mouse. She is not into Dora as much.
Now we are looking forward to Easter and planning an Easter egg hunt! Yay...so exciting!

Kiersten and I

I have been spending as much time with just Kiersten as I possibly could for now, because I know that will change in a few months. Last week I took Kiersten to Dunkin Donuts after school, she loves eating there so I enjoy taking her there. She loves the double chocolate donut! I have been taking her to the park by our house lately since the weather has been so prefect. Yesterday Kiersten and I had a great day, I took her to look at some fish at a fish store, then to the park. We had so much fun together! I absolutely love spending time with her.
When I first got pregnant I was scared, I felt like I was replacing her but now I am so excited about it. I had my awesome best friend over last week for lunch with her sweet baby and Kiersten just LOVED the baby. She would go over to the baby and want to touch the baby, and when she cried Kiersten was concerned, when she was being changed she wanted to be there and even gave her a kiss. I hope this continues when we bring our baby home.
Kiersten has been so funny lately. When she toots, she will stop what she is doing and let it out. She also told Daisy to get off the couch because she wanted to sit there, with her hand movements she was too funny! She does so many funny things. She has learned lots from school, like saying "shake" when she hears music.
We went to Ikea this weekend and we bought her a chalkboard and drawing easel she loves it. So I made her a smock. She wouldn't even give it a chance. She screamed and cried bloody murder! I made the neck part too big, so I am going to attempt it again.....we'll see!
She also has been telling me she needs to be changed but refuses to sit on the potty. But atleast her telling me is a step n the right direction.
Next week my parents and niece will be here, so we will be doing fun stuff!

Things will get better

For the past month this has been the verse I have been rephrasing to myself. I remember when Kiersten would not sleep though the night when she was very little and it passed. I always reminded myself things come and go with children and to always remind myself things will get better. So with Kiersten not doing well with sleeping in her own bed, I had to remind myself this several times.
Well it has gotten better. We read several books at bedtime, she is ready to go to her bed. I cover her up and she covers all the animals in her bed too. I read her "goodnight frog" book and I stay in there for a little while, until she falls asleep. Sometimes I can leave without her crying, sometimes she will cry for only a few minutes and she is fine after that. No more crying bloody murder, getting out of her bed, sleeping by the door. It was horrible! But it's much better now, and this is something that as the years go by things will pass and it will get better. For the moment it seems as though it will never pass but......it will!
Kiersten has been real talkative lately and I am loving it! She also has been very honory too! I can't take her shopping, barely make it through dinner at a restaurant. She is funny, at church during a silent moment she shouts...."here I come", I say this to her when I am coming to tickle her. She has defitently kept us on our toes.
As for me I am feeling great, no more feeling sick and I am finally looking pregnant. I am starting to feel the baby, so that's always a great feeling. We didn't find out the sex so it will defently be a surprise. I am thinking boy now. Oh well, whatever it is it will be wonderful!
I sewed Kiersten an Easter dress, so I am excited for her to get to wear it! I have defintly gotten better at this sewing business.

Many Milestones

Its been a while since my last update. So much has happened...for the good! Let's see 2 weekends ago Nick and I took Kiersten on her first train ride to the aquarium....I think it was more for Nick! Anyway, she enjoyed it but was beside herself, she kept climbing over the seats and just acting horrible. But granted it was during nap time so I completely understand why she was acting like that. Once we got to the aquarium she loved it of course. She finally fell asleep when we got lunch, which was nice so I can eat on peace.
Monday I took Kiersten to the dermatologist and she got her rash frozen, which was so painful for her the nurse and doctor and I had to hold her down. I just wanted them to stop....it was so sad! But she still has some left so treatment will begin again on Monday. During school last week, Kiersten has bit through 2 pacifiers and 1 at home. So I thought this was a sign to cut her off. I knew it was going to be hard and this time would be any good as ever. So here we go! Sunday at nap but horrible, Sunday night was great I gave her a new spongebob pillow person to sleep with and she did great! However things will change. Monday at nap she asked for her "B" (pacifier). I Told her she broke it and that was the end. At bedtime, oh boy she was very upset to the point where she climbed out of her bed. The next night Nick converted her crib to a bed. She was not as excited as I was. Nick got her to asleep but it was 10pm. The next night was the same, I tried to make her room more fun by putting toys in there but she was not happy when I left at 10:45, she finally feel sleep at 11:15. At least she sleeps though the night. Well I am praying for a better bedtime.
As for me I've been the same, I have been still feeling sick. I went to a sewing class learned a little, but will be taking a 6 week class in April. I made a make up case but it was hard to get the concept down but I never gave up, so I was so proud of myself. Last weekend we took out one of my sweet best friends out for a day of pampering. I am so excited to meet her little one in 2 weeks!

It's cold outside baby!

Well it's the new year and what I love most about the new year is starting over, but I HATE the cold weather. We have about 2 more months of this to come. I find myself and Kiersten staying in a lot due to the weather. I absolutely hate getting out in the cold! Hopefully this winter won't be bad like last years. When it is nice outside and I am feeling well, I try to take Kiersten to the park by our house to run out some energy and she loves being outside as I do when the weather is warm. So we went to the park a few days this week, and hopefully more times than not this coming week too. We were at the park and she loves climbing the rock stairs and sliding down backwards on the slide. We also met some cute kids, and Kiersten got upset when they left it was cute!
Kiersten had her first day back at school last Tuesday, she was a little hesitant but she saw her friends and called them by their names. So she went in with no problem. I took the chance and worked on a sewing project, one that came out pretty good! This weekend we started going to church on Saturday evening, and Kiersten was really good....I am proud of her! I also bought her a game for Kinnect, called Kinnectimals. And she did pretty good at it.
This week Finding Nemo was on tv, so I DVR'ed it for Kiersten this is her favorite movie! I also been trying to put her on the potty as much as I can this week. She will sit on it but nothing comes out, yesterday I put her on it and she screamed so I guess I will have to hold off on that for a while. I can already tell this is going to be a long drawn out process with her. At school, Kiersten and her little friend will talk during nap time so now the teacher is putting them on the floor on a mat. We were leaving school Tuesday and Kiersten said bye to her friend, it was so cute. I went to pic Kiersten up today and she didn't take a nap because her pacifier had holes in it. I guess Kiersten had chewed it up. So today I tried to put her down with out it, I cut the nipple off of it and she cried bloody murder, she just kept crying so I found another one to give her. So I guess I will have to try this also when she gets older, so she has a better understanding of what's going on. I can tell this too will not be easy for me! This morning Kiersten wanted to bring her IPad to school, so I let her use it in the car,and she cried when I took it away. Tonight as she was going to bed, she was crying, IPad, IPad. I have never seen a 2 yr old cry for an iPad so bad. I think she needs IPad rehab..haha! Wednesday was swimming and she did pretty good, Kiersten waited well, and did everything she was expected to do well. There is a boy in her class who is 3 months older than her and he pushed her in the water, she didn't do anything she just looked surprised....my poor baby!
This week I made a skirt for well maybe a six month old, it was way too small for Kiersten. But all in all it was fun and easy to make.

Christmas and New Years

Christmas was so much fun with Kiersten. We were in Texarkana with my family and Nick's. Kiersten loves going to Texarkana because well she doesn't have a bedtime, she sleeps with us and gets to see her cousins. For Christmas Nick bought us the XboX Kinnect. It's so much fun. Kiersten even plays with it, she jumps and dance. I think I am going to buy her the Kinnectanimals. It's a game for kids and they have an animal to play with....it looks fun! Christmas eve was busy buying last minute gifts, wrapping and going to church. Except this year Nick refused to go to church because the Cowboys were on....I know so sad! Kiersten threw a fit and did not want to put her church dress on or any clothes so she did not go. But I went with my sister and her kids. It was just as well it was only us, because we all barely got a seat. That evening Kiersten opened up all her gifts and had a blast doing that. She got some great gifts! Christmas day was awesome, she opened her presents from Santa and enjoyed them all! Then we went to Nicks aunts house and then went back to his parents house. The next day we left to come home. I was eager to come home because Nick had gotten me a sewing machine for Christmas and I was ready to use it! Nick was also off that week. We did not get much done around the house, but we did relax and spend family time together. We did take down all the Christmas decorations and tree, which took all day and I was very tired from doing it. We went back to Texarkana for New Years, Kiersten made it to midnight! Thats how our holidays went, hope yall's were great too!