Wednesday, February 3, 2016
Random Thoughts
*As of yesterday, Ruby is officially off the bottle. While some kids have a hard time giving up the bottle, mine definitely has not. To be fair, Ruby was never really attached to the bottle. In fact, the last month or so, she didn't really have the desire or the "time" to drink a bottle. She would have one in the morning and maybe drink about 6 oz. of formula. Then, one at night of about the same amount. Ruby is not one to sit still unless she is in her high chair. The girl loves to eat. She now drinks whole milk from a sippy cup during meals and drinks water from a sippy cup when she is playing.
*There are days where I realize I only need one ingredient from the grocery store. This pains me to no end because that means I usually have to bundle Ruby up, get her in and out of her car seat to run into the grocery store for ONE item. I'm really lucky if I can get this item at the dollar store in town. If not, we drive into Buffalo to get it. I think that someone should develop some sort of business for mom's like me. (Momnesia+Preggo Braino=No braino) This business or grocery store would have someone deliver to you the item that you need so that you don't have to bundle or wake up your kids to get something you forgot. Now, if this ever comes about please tell me about it. If you steal my idea and make millions...I want half.
*We had Ruby's 1 year well visit on Monday. Poor girl does NOT like going. She doesn't like getting her diaper changed on changing tables and will SCREAM until you pick her up. So, when the first thing the nurse does at the doctor is have her lay down on the padded table to measure her, she screams and it just sets the mood for the rest of the visit. Ruby's doctor however is AMAZING! She is so good with Ruby. Ruby is in the 55% for weight and 5% for length. She is a short stack. :) Oh yeah, her head is in the 72%. Too much adorableness.
*We had dinner with some friends from MOPS last weekend. Ben's mom, dad, and our nephew, Zander came to watch Ruby while we ventured out. It was SO nice because the dinner was at another house in Maple Lake. We always have to go into Buffalo for anything that we do, so it was a treat that we were able to walk to our dinner fun. Earlier in the day we went to a friends house to pick up an elliptical. We left Ruby with her grandparents and when we got home she was giggling away with her Grandma Kathy. She barely noticed that we even came through the door. She loves her Grandma Kathy and Papa Dennis. She always takes a little while to warm up to Dennis, but she usually always comes around. :)
*I'm 29 weeks pregnant, but I feel like I'm 36 weeks. I'm so excited for baby number 2 and still a little sad thinking about Ruby having to share me. I also question if I will ever make it out of the house.
*Ruby usually sleeps from 7:00 at night until 7:30 in the morning. Straight through. She's been doing this for about three months. I've definitely become selfish of my sleep. In 2.5 months I will be on here bragging that I got 2 consistent hours of sleep.
*This weekend if the weather is ok, my mom, Ruby, and I are heading to Fargo for the weekend. The following weekend we will be having Ruby's official first birthday party. It is Minnie Mouse themed.
*There are SO many things before having Ruby that I said I would never do. I now do them or have done them. One thing I said would never happen is that I would never let our living room turn into a play room. Yeah, that definitely happened. Right now we have three bedrooms upstairs. Ours, Ruby's, and an office, which will eventually be Stella's room. We have toys in Ruby's room and then a TON in the living room. Our basement is unfinished, but sometimes I dream of the day that it is done just so we can have a play room or area for all the toys.
*The Iditarod is in 30 days. I can't wait! I hope that Alaska gets some good snow between now and then! The Yukon Quest is starting this weekend. It is a different 1,000 mile race in Alaska. For those that don't know, I'm kind of a geek when it comes to dog mushing. I love it and find it absolutely fascinating.
*All done with this post. Kudos to those of you that read my random thoughts. :)
Friday, January 29, 2016
I Have a One Year Old!
Hey Everyone,
Today is Ruby's first birthday. I'm flooded with all sorts of emotion and disbelief. I can't believe that she is one already. People warn you that time goes by way too fast when you have kids and I definitely agree. I love the quote, "Your days are long, but your years are short." This is so true. Honestly, there are days where I can't wait for Ruby to go to sleep for the night. There are other days that I wish she could just stay up a little bit longer. There are days where I question who I am as a mom. If I'm failing her, if I'm smothering her, if I'm giving her what she needs. There are days that I look at her and think she is going to be just like her Daddy. Then she falls over an imaginary line and I know she is mine. :) Just kidding. I think so far she has a lot of both Ben and I's traits. I think she has both of our stubbornness, she has Ben's determination, she has my goofy side and dance skills, and I'm afraid she has her Daddy's appetite. Who are we kidding, her preggo momma has a big appetite right now too! She is incredibly happy and blows us away with how fast she catches onto things. Unfortunately she knows how to work the remote for the TV. The funny thing is that we don't really have the TV on a whole lot. I always turn on the Today Show in the morning when she wakes up, so I guess she does watch me point it at the tv. She also knows that when we say it's time to pray she folds her hands. She knows where her teeth are if you ask her. Probably because they are hurting a lot with teething. She LOVES dancing with her Daddy to Adele's CD. Hello is her favorite. She still doesn't say Momma, but will say Dada until she is blue in the face. I'm not bitter, I'm not bitter, I'm not bitter. Ok, maybe I'm a little bitter.
It is crazy for me to think back on the last year with Ruby. It makes me sad that my dad only got to be with her for 5 1/2 months and that he won't get to meet Ruby's little sister on earth. I will always remember my dad being able to get a smile out of Ruby when often times "men" in general scared her. I will always remember the way he looked at her with the biggest smile even when he was at his sickest. I can't wait for Ruby and Stella to learn all about who their Grandpa was.
It is also crazy for me to think that I've been pregnant during the second half of Ruby's life. I'm holding onto Ruby being the only child, even though I know that Ruby will handle Stella's arrival without a problem. (I hope) She is very easy going and SO incredibly busy ALL. THE. TIME. that I think it will take her awhile to even realize there is a baby in the house. :) I will definitely say that Ruby is a total Grandma's girl. She loves my mom and I couldn't be more pleased to have my mom living so close. Ruby will reach out for my mom as soon as we go over to her house or my mom comes over. I'm pretty sure that Ruby says "ada" for Grandma. Whenever she pretends to be on the phone we say hello and she says ada. She doesn't say Momma yet. No hard feelings at all over here. Bah! Whatever. It will come. Ruby also LOVES her daddy. As soon as he walks through the door, she almost runs over for him to pick her up. She gets mad every time because he always washes his hands first, so the poor girl follows Ben over to the sink and waits for him to finish and pick her up. I love how much Ben loves Ruby as well. The way he looks at her and smiles at her. There is nothing better.
Anyway, I could go on and on about how amazing this little girl is and how she has changed Ben and I forever! We are so thankful that God has given Ruby to us and pray that one day Ruby will commit to following the Lord. Here are some of our favorite pictures throughout her first year.
Seriously? Yahoo!
My dad was pretty amused that I had a bigger belly than he did!
Couldn't get enough!
I'm not sure how these pictures got out of whack, but her first bath!
Today is Ruby's first birthday. I'm flooded with all sorts of emotion and disbelief. I can't believe that she is one already. People warn you that time goes by way too fast when you have kids and I definitely agree. I love the quote, "Your days are long, but your years are short." This is so true. Honestly, there are days where I can't wait for Ruby to go to sleep for the night. There are other days that I wish she could just stay up a little bit longer. There are days where I question who I am as a mom. If I'm failing her, if I'm smothering her, if I'm giving her what she needs. There are days that I look at her and think she is going to be just like her Daddy. Then she falls over an imaginary line and I know she is mine. :) Just kidding. I think so far she has a lot of both Ben and I's traits. I think she has both of our stubbornness, she has Ben's determination, she has my goofy side and dance skills, and I'm afraid she has her Daddy's appetite. Who are we kidding, her preggo momma has a big appetite right now too! She is incredibly happy and blows us away with how fast she catches onto things. Unfortunately she knows how to work the remote for the TV. The funny thing is that we don't really have the TV on a whole lot. I always turn on the Today Show in the morning when she wakes up, so I guess she does watch me point it at the tv. She also knows that when we say it's time to pray she folds her hands. She knows where her teeth are if you ask her. Probably because they are hurting a lot with teething. She LOVES dancing with her Daddy to Adele's CD. Hello is her favorite. She still doesn't say Momma, but will say Dada until she is blue in the face. I'm not bitter, I'm not bitter, I'm not bitter. Ok, maybe I'm a little bitter.
It is crazy for me to think back on the last year with Ruby. It makes me sad that my dad only got to be with her for 5 1/2 months and that he won't get to meet Ruby's little sister on earth. I will always remember my dad being able to get a smile out of Ruby when often times "men" in general scared her. I will always remember the way he looked at her with the biggest smile even when he was at his sickest. I can't wait for Ruby and Stella to learn all about who their Grandpa was.
It is also crazy for me to think that I've been pregnant during the second half of Ruby's life. I'm holding onto Ruby being the only child, even though I know that Ruby will handle Stella's arrival without a problem. (I hope) She is very easy going and SO incredibly busy ALL. THE. TIME. that I think it will take her awhile to even realize there is a baby in the house. :) I will definitely say that Ruby is a total Grandma's girl. She loves my mom and I couldn't be more pleased to have my mom living so close. Ruby will reach out for my mom as soon as we go over to her house or my mom comes over. I'm pretty sure that Ruby says "ada" for Grandma. Whenever she pretends to be on the phone we say hello and she says ada. She doesn't say Momma yet. No hard feelings at all over here. Bah! Whatever. It will come. Ruby also LOVES her daddy. As soon as he walks through the door, she almost runs over for him to pick her up. She gets mad every time because he always washes his hands first, so the poor girl follows Ben over to the sink and waits for him to finish and pick her up. I love how much Ben loves Ruby as well. The way he looks at her and smiles at her. There is nothing better.
Anyway, I could go on and on about how amazing this little girl is and how she has changed Ben and I forever! We are so thankful that God has given Ruby to us and pray that one day Ruby will commit to following the Lord. Here are some of our favorite pictures throughout her first year.
Seriously? Yahoo!
My dad was pretty amused that I had a bigger belly than he did!
Couldn't get enough!
Thursday, December 31, 2015
11 Months and Walking!
Hey Everyone,
Ruby is 11 months old, although I don't have a pic to show for it. I think I will blame the Christmas hoopla on that. Ruby starting taking some steps on her own around 10.5 months. I think it is safe to say that she has mastered walking. For awhile she would see her target and basically lunge towards her target. Now, she has realized she can take her time and take many steps and get there without any bumps on her head or knees. I just can't believe how fast she is growing and changing. Let me also say, that homegirl has also developed a bit of an attitude. She knows what she wants and has taken to the screaming approach in order to tell me that. This usually revolves around more food. We are working hard on signing more and please. Ben and I have not been consistent with this, but now with the screaming...ooofta...signing it is. Ruby has also started laughing this big belly laugh, which we LOVE. Seriously, nothing is better. Ruby got a couple off dolls for Christmas and I was very interested in how Ruby would treat these dolls. I've showed her rocking and being really gentle with the babies, but so far she has just tried chewing on the babies hands and feet. Hope this isn't a sign of things to come! Speaking of, I'm 24 weeks pregnant. When did that happen?
With Ruby, I knew the exact week and day if someone were to ask how far along I was. Now, I went into my calendar on my phone and have reminders of how far along I am. I've had a really simple pregnancy so far. No morning sickness. I was tired as all get out the first trimester, but now I feel great and more myself. I'm starting to feel the baby (Stella Louise) more consistently. I'm 99% sure that Ben and I are done having babies after Stella, so I'm trying to appreciate and hold onto all of these feelings while being pregnant. Now, I say we are 99% sure we are done now, but keep in mind that we haven't left the baby stage yet. We won't for another two or so years, so there is a good chance that percentage might go down in a couple of years. We shall see. Usually whenever we set plans for ourselves, God changes them. I have had some mommy guilt of having another baby so close in age to Ruby. I say this in the way that I love Ruby SO much and it almost breaks my heart having to love another child. I don't think it is possible to love another as much as I do Ruby. Is this normal? I'm not sure, but I'm praying this guilt goes away. I'm sure it will. I'm not a fan of New Years Resolutions because they usually don't keep, but my "New Years Resolution" is to stay off of my phone/computer while Ruby is awake. The only time I can check social media will be when she is napping or has gone to bed. I'm usually pretty good at this, but I think this resolution might help me keep a little more accountable. I would like to keep this as Stella comes into the world, which means I will probably never be on social media. So, if you wonder if I've gone missing...just know that I"m busy trying to be a mom who is present.
2015 was the best year for having Ruby, but the worst year for losing my dad. Not going to lie, that completely sucked. It still sucks and it always will. I don't know that we will ever understand why here on earth, but we need to just trust that God's plan is perfect. I'm still at a point that I don't like thinking about what happened, I don't like thinking about my dad if I don't have to. I know that sounds awful, but it is still just doesn't seem real. Its hard for me to see pictures of my dad or to see his name pop up on my friends list on Facebook. I know that it will get easier or maybe a little more normal I don't know. I know that as time goes on, I will remember my dad for the good memories I have and the hilarious things he did and said. I'm excited for a fresh start in 2016. I'm excited that my mom is living in Maple Grove. I love that I can call her and go over to her house any time I want instead of it just being a phone call. I love that we often have "pizza" night at my moms where my siblings meet up at my moms. Last night my mom came out to Maple Lake and stayed over night so that Ben and I could have a date night. I'm excited for baby number 2 to arrive! I'm excited that I have made so many great friends through MOMS club and MOPS and I look forward to continuing that. I'm excited to see how Ruby grows and changes in 2016. Speaking of. Ruby turns 1 next month. As in 29 days.
I'm throwing a "Minnie Mouse" themed birthday party for Ruby. We went on a disney cruise in November and so I just decided...year of disney..Minnie Mouse it is. When Ben and I were in St. Cloud we stopped by Party City and I filled up on Minnie Mouse stuff. They only turn 1 once right? I'm also going to try and make my own Minnie Mouse cake with fondant frosting. Anyone out there tried this? Any tips? I've watched several youtube videos and they make it look so easy. I'm going to practice before hand. We will see how my practice sessions go. Maybe, just maybe I will document this endeavor. So, that is where we are at. Thanks for reading, thanks for praying, and thanks for being you and awesome!
Ruby is 11 months old, although I don't have a pic to show for it. I think I will blame the Christmas hoopla on that. Ruby starting taking some steps on her own around 10.5 months. I think it is safe to say that she has mastered walking. For awhile she would see her target and basically lunge towards her target. Now, she has realized she can take her time and take many steps and get there without any bumps on her head or knees. I just can't believe how fast she is growing and changing. Let me also say, that homegirl has also developed a bit of an attitude. She knows what she wants and has taken to the screaming approach in order to tell me that. This usually revolves around more food. We are working hard on signing more and please. Ben and I have not been consistent with this, but now with the screaming...ooofta...signing it is. Ruby has also started laughing this big belly laugh, which we LOVE. Seriously, nothing is better. Ruby got a couple off dolls for Christmas and I was very interested in how Ruby would treat these dolls. I've showed her rocking and being really gentle with the babies, but so far she has just tried chewing on the babies hands and feet. Hope this isn't a sign of things to come! Speaking of, I'm 24 weeks pregnant. When did that happen?
With Ruby, I knew the exact week and day if someone were to ask how far along I was. Now, I went into my calendar on my phone and have reminders of how far along I am. I've had a really simple pregnancy so far. No morning sickness. I was tired as all get out the first trimester, but now I feel great and more myself. I'm starting to feel the baby (Stella Louise) more consistently. I'm 99% sure that Ben and I are done having babies after Stella, so I'm trying to appreciate and hold onto all of these feelings while being pregnant. Now, I say we are 99% sure we are done now, but keep in mind that we haven't left the baby stage yet. We won't for another two or so years, so there is a good chance that percentage might go down in a couple of years. We shall see. Usually whenever we set plans for ourselves, God changes them. I have had some mommy guilt of having another baby so close in age to Ruby. I say this in the way that I love Ruby SO much and it almost breaks my heart having to love another child. I don't think it is possible to love another as much as I do Ruby. Is this normal? I'm not sure, but I'm praying this guilt goes away. I'm sure it will. I'm not a fan of New Years Resolutions because they usually don't keep, but my "New Years Resolution" is to stay off of my phone/computer while Ruby is awake. The only time I can check social media will be when she is napping or has gone to bed. I'm usually pretty good at this, but I think this resolution might help me keep a little more accountable. I would like to keep this as Stella comes into the world, which means I will probably never be on social media. So, if you wonder if I've gone missing...just know that I"m busy trying to be a mom who is present.
2015 was the best year for having Ruby, but the worst year for losing my dad. Not going to lie, that completely sucked. It still sucks and it always will. I don't know that we will ever understand why here on earth, but we need to just trust that God's plan is perfect. I'm still at a point that I don't like thinking about what happened, I don't like thinking about my dad if I don't have to. I know that sounds awful, but it is still just doesn't seem real. Its hard for me to see pictures of my dad or to see his name pop up on my friends list on Facebook. I know that it will get easier or maybe a little more normal I don't know. I know that as time goes on, I will remember my dad for the good memories I have and the hilarious things he did and said. I'm excited for a fresh start in 2016. I'm excited that my mom is living in Maple Grove. I love that I can call her and go over to her house any time I want instead of it just being a phone call. I love that we often have "pizza" night at my moms where my siblings meet up at my moms. Last night my mom came out to Maple Lake and stayed over night so that Ben and I could have a date night. I'm excited for baby number 2 to arrive! I'm excited that I have made so many great friends through MOMS club and MOPS and I look forward to continuing that. I'm excited to see how Ruby grows and changes in 2016. Speaking of. Ruby turns 1 next month. As in 29 days.
I'm throwing a "Minnie Mouse" themed birthday party for Ruby. We went on a disney cruise in November and so I just decided...year of disney..Minnie Mouse it is. When Ben and I were in St. Cloud we stopped by Party City and I filled up on Minnie Mouse stuff. They only turn 1 once right? I'm also going to try and make my own Minnie Mouse cake with fondant frosting. Anyone out there tried this? Any tips? I've watched several youtube videos and they make it look so easy. I'm going to practice before hand. We will see how my practice sessions go. Maybe, just maybe I will document this endeavor. So, that is where we are at. Thanks for reading, thanks for praying, and thanks for being you and awesome!
This is the look that Ruby gives us when she is waiting for us to get her or she is about to do a belly laugh. We love this little girl SO much!
My dear friend Erin McBurney came over for the day today. She brought me some sparkling grape juice to bring in the new year.
Monday, December 14, 2015
Ruby's Gets A Sister!
Hey Everyone,
If you are my friend on Facebook, you know that two big things happened this week. We found out that we are having a baby girl in April and Ruby started walking. Ben and I both were hoping/praying for a girl. Some may disagree and that is completely fine, but I just think that every girl needs a sister. My sister and I were 4 years apart and I don't know that we really became good friends until she went off to college. Until then, I was the annoying little sister who wore all of her clothes behind her back and secretly did everything just like her. :) There are things that I feel like I can tell and do around my sister that I can't do around anyone else. It is a bond that you can't really explain. I'm SO excited that Ruby will get to have that same bond and that her and her sister will be so close in age. I was asking Ben if every boy needs a brother and he said no, which is kind of funny to me because he grew up with four brothers. Ben and I actually made a bet on if the baby would be a boy or a girl. I had a feeling that it was a boy and Ben said girl. I feel like since I wanted another girl, that we were for sure going to have a boy. Anyway, we bet $100. Ben won. The funny thing is that I don't make any money. So, really...this just means he gets to spend $100 without ANY judgement or "Are you serious?" looks from me. :)
We plan on naming baby number 2, Stella Louise Harvey. Stella has multiple meanings for us. Ben goes on a mission trip every summer to Pine Ridge Indian Reservation and one year there was this girl named Stella that Ben and the team was helping out. Ben later went on to name his beloved mustang, "Stella." I didn't know this when I offered the name Stella to Ben, but apparently Ben's Grandma Ruby's mothers name was Stella. Isn't that crazy? We have Ruby and Stella. Mother and daughter. Louise was my middle name growing up. When I got married, I legally changed my name to Anne Kennedy Harvey. This is a way to bring Louise back. I think it sounds great with Stella! So, we will have a Ruby and a Stella. It is my prayer that they grow up as best friends and encourage one another to follow the Lord.
I feel like I've been a little more paranoid this pregnancy for some reason. Maybe it is because it's my second go around and I know what to expect a little bit. Maybe I've read too much online of what could happen during pregnancy and labor. I was a little nervous to go to our ultrasound. Those nerves went away the second I saw our baby with a flickering heartbeat. I'm just in awe at technology along with God's creation. My due date remains April 19th.
The other big news is that Ruby has been walking. Now, when I say she's been walking, I don't mean she walks all over the place. I mean she takes a few steps here and there. It was kind of bittersweet watching her take those first steps by herself. I was so happy for her and seeing the joy in her eyes, but I was also a little sad seeing her walk knowing that she's getting bigger and older. It makes me SO thankful that I'm able to stay at home with Ruby. It is not easy living on a one teacher income, but to us it is SO worth it.
Again, thanks for reading! Please continue to pray for a healthy pregnancy and that I would be able to soak in as much time with Ruby as an only child as I can!
If you are my friend on Facebook, you know that two big things happened this week. We found out that we are having a baby girl in April and Ruby started walking. Ben and I both were hoping/praying for a girl. Some may disagree and that is completely fine, but I just think that every girl needs a sister. My sister and I were 4 years apart and I don't know that we really became good friends until she went off to college. Until then, I was the annoying little sister who wore all of her clothes behind her back and secretly did everything just like her. :) There are things that I feel like I can tell and do around my sister that I can't do around anyone else. It is a bond that you can't really explain. I'm SO excited that Ruby will get to have that same bond and that her and her sister will be so close in age. I was asking Ben if every boy needs a brother and he said no, which is kind of funny to me because he grew up with four brothers. Ben and I actually made a bet on if the baby would be a boy or a girl. I had a feeling that it was a boy and Ben said girl. I feel like since I wanted another girl, that we were for sure going to have a boy. Anyway, we bet $100. Ben won. The funny thing is that I don't make any money. So, really...this just means he gets to spend $100 without ANY judgement or "Are you serious?" looks from me. :)
We plan on naming baby number 2, Stella Louise Harvey. Stella has multiple meanings for us. Ben goes on a mission trip every summer to Pine Ridge Indian Reservation and one year there was this girl named Stella that Ben and the team was helping out. Ben later went on to name his beloved mustang, "Stella." I didn't know this when I offered the name Stella to Ben, but apparently Ben's Grandma Ruby's mothers name was Stella. Isn't that crazy? We have Ruby and Stella. Mother and daughter. Louise was my middle name growing up. When I got married, I legally changed my name to Anne Kennedy Harvey. This is a way to bring Louise back. I think it sounds great with Stella! So, we will have a Ruby and a Stella. It is my prayer that they grow up as best friends and encourage one another to follow the Lord.
I feel like I've been a little more paranoid this pregnancy for some reason. Maybe it is because it's my second go around and I know what to expect a little bit. Maybe I've read too much online of what could happen during pregnancy and labor. I was a little nervous to go to our ultrasound. Those nerves went away the second I saw our baby with a flickering heartbeat. I'm just in awe at technology along with God's creation. My due date remains April 19th.
The other big news is that Ruby has been walking. Now, when I say she's been walking, I don't mean she walks all over the place. I mean she takes a few steps here and there. It was kind of bittersweet watching her take those first steps by herself. I was so happy for her and seeing the joy in her eyes, but I was also a little sad seeing her walk knowing that she's getting bigger and older. It makes me SO thankful that I'm able to stay at home with Ruby. It is not easy living on a one teacher income, but to us it is SO worth it.
Again, thanks for reading! Please continue to pray for a healthy pregnancy and that I would be able to soak in as much time with Ruby as an only child as I can!
Tuesday, December 1, 2015
10 Months, Cruises, Christmas!
Hey Everyone,
I feel like life has not slowed down one bit since having Ruby 10 months and 2 days ago. That's ok. I would rather be busy than idle. I can't believe that Ruby is 10 months old. I feel like even more now than before she changes. Her personality comes out more and more each day and let me tell you. She is such a goof ball and I love it! She is honestly the happiest baby! I can't say that she has always been so happy. Remember the time that I was basically starving her? Yeah, she wasn't as happy then. :) She has been standing on her own for a couple of weeks now. Each time gets a little bit longer and longer. Her smirk keeps getting a little bit bigger while doing it. She's getting more and more confident and I don't think it will be long before she is taking the heel toe express. She did take one step the other day. I think on accident, but a step nonetheless. I feel like the hemangioma on her head keeps getting a little bit bigger. The hemangioma is really soft, but doesn't bother her any. Thankfully she is blissfully unaware. Some of you may know, but I had one on my forehead until I was about 4. Apparently they grow and grow until around age 1 and then gradually start decreasing in size until gone. You can have them surgically removed, but it isn't necessary. I didn't have mine removed. I still have a little bit of an indent actually on my forehead from it. At least Ruby's is on her head and will easily be covered by her hair. And if it isn't, I shall call it her beauty mark. ;)
Our cruise was a lot of fun. I was pretty nervous about it actually. I didn't know how Ruby would do on the plane, on the ship, how she would nap, how she would sleep at night, etc. Let me just tell you though, she was AMAZING! I honestly don't think she could have traveled any better. She had a nasty cold and ear infection the week and a half leading up to the cruise. It made me so sad to see her sick like that. I was worried that her ears would hurt her on the airplane. Well, God is good and prayers were definitely heard because her cold cleared up completely the day before we left and her ears didn't bother her one bit on the airplane or anytime for that matter. I was so happy to not have to use the nose sucker on vacation! Ben didn't fly with us on the way to Miami unfortunately. He wanted to put in one more day of work as he doesn't have a whole lot of leave. 2 babies in 2 years doesn't leave a lot of extra time I guess. haha. Waoooops. Anyway, I flew out in the morning with my mom, Jon and his family, Sarah and her family, and my first nephew Jaz. Ruby and I had a window seat. I broke the ice immediately with the kid (maybe in his early 20's) and told him that if Ruby got unruly that I was handing her off to him. He laughed and kept talking to me, so I didn't scare him off. Ruby fell asleep in my boba carrier about 20 minutes before boarding. Of course she woke up right before taking off. I panicked when she started crying and tried getting her bottle ready super fast so she would have it during takeoff. Well, I ended up pouring half of the bottle of water down my shirt. Oops. We got it worked out and she drank her bottle while we took off. She then played and was very curious. She fell asleep with about an hour left in the flight and woke up just in time for our landing. She was able to have another bottle to help with her ears. The cruise itself was a lot of fun as well. Not as easy having to work around a 2 naps a day little girl, but it was still fun. Ruby got to meet the disney characters and load up on some great food. The only bummer part was when we had our sailing day, we were traveling through rain and wind. This made for a pretty rocky boat ride. Who knew a giant ship could rock that much. Well, it did and it left Ben feeling a little green all day. He hung out in bed for most of the day trying to catch some relief. I think there was one member from each family who was sick. We went to a show that night and I kept waiting for one of the dancers to fall. It didn't happen. They must be used to it. haha. Anyway, our flight back went well too. This time I had Ben next to me, which was a big help He is a great entertainer and Ruby sure loves her dad!
Christmas! For those of you that know me well, you know that winter and Christmas time is my absolute favorite. Honestly, living in Alaska for 3 years made me love and appreciate winter more than I ever did before. I think the snow is absolutely gorgeous and such a great reminder that our sins are washed clean. Christmas is a great time of togetherness and it just seems like everyone around you is a little more cheerful. It seems like this year with everything going on around us in the world, we all need a little more cheer and most of all we all need a little more Jesus. I'm thankful for Jesus' birth and it is my prayer that He is the reason for this season. It is so easy to become wrapped up in the lights, the trees, the presents, and great family time and forget why we celebrate in the first place. I'm excited for Ruby to witness Christmas for the first time (outside the womb) So far she is more into the lights plugged into our outlet cover instead of the tree itself. I'm ok with that. I'm not sure that will stick, but here is some wishful thinking. I put up our little Charlie Brown tree in Ruby's room. It is fun praying with Ruby. She witnesses Ben and I praying and honestly whether we are praying at dinner or whatever, she silently just watches. Ruby is not that silent. It is just really cool to see her notice something a little different. I also sing to her every morning when I go get her in the morning This is the day that the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it......She gets the biggest grin and dances away in her crib. It's my favorite. Anyway, this just goes back to my prayer of teaching Ruby about God and praying that she will grow up to follow Him. I think Christmas is such a great time to step back and focus on God and be thankful. Thanks for reading this long post! I appreciate all of you! Merry Christmas!!
I feel like life has not slowed down one bit since having Ruby 10 months and 2 days ago. That's ok. I would rather be busy than idle. I can't believe that Ruby is 10 months old. I feel like even more now than before she changes. Her personality comes out more and more each day and let me tell you. She is such a goof ball and I love it! She is honestly the happiest baby! I can't say that she has always been so happy. Remember the time that I was basically starving her? Yeah, she wasn't as happy then. :) She has been standing on her own for a couple of weeks now. Each time gets a little bit longer and longer. Her smirk keeps getting a little bit bigger while doing it. She's getting more and more confident and I don't think it will be long before she is taking the heel toe express. She did take one step the other day. I think on accident, but a step nonetheless. I feel like the hemangioma on her head keeps getting a little bit bigger. The hemangioma is really soft, but doesn't bother her any. Thankfully she is blissfully unaware. Some of you may know, but I had one on my forehead until I was about 4. Apparently they grow and grow until around age 1 and then gradually start decreasing in size until gone. You can have them surgically removed, but it isn't necessary. I didn't have mine removed. I still have a little bit of an indent actually on my forehead from it. At least Ruby's is on her head and will easily be covered by her hair. And if it isn't, I shall call it her beauty mark. ;)
Our cruise was a lot of fun. I was pretty nervous about it actually. I didn't know how Ruby would do on the plane, on the ship, how she would nap, how she would sleep at night, etc. Let me just tell you though, she was AMAZING! I honestly don't think she could have traveled any better. She had a nasty cold and ear infection the week and a half leading up to the cruise. It made me so sad to see her sick like that. I was worried that her ears would hurt her on the airplane. Well, God is good and prayers were definitely heard because her cold cleared up completely the day before we left and her ears didn't bother her one bit on the airplane or anytime for that matter. I was so happy to not have to use the nose sucker on vacation! Ben didn't fly with us on the way to Miami unfortunately. He wanted to put in one more day of work as he doesn't have a whole lot of leave. 2 babies in 2 years doesn't leave a lot of extra time I guess. haha. Waoooops. Anyway, I flew out in the morning with my mom, Jon and his family, Sarah and her family, and my first nephew Jaz. Ruby and I had a window seat. I broke the ice immediately with the kid (maybe in his early 20's) and told him that if Ruby got unruly that I was handing her off to him. He laughed and kept talking to me, so I didn't scare him off. Ruby fell asleep in my boba carrier about 20 minutes before boarding. Of course she woke up right before taking off. I panicked when she started crying and tried getting her bottle ready super fast so she would have it during takeoff. Well, I ended up pouring half of the bottle of water down my shirt. Oops. We got it worked out and she drank her bottle while we took off. She then played and was very curious. She fell asleep with about an hour left in the flight and woke up just in time for our landing. She was able to have another bottle to help with her ears. The cruise itself was a lot of fun as well. Not as easy having to work around a 2 naps a day little girl, but it was still fun. Ruby got to meet the disney characters and load up on some great food. The only bummer part was when we had our sailing day, we were traveling through rain and wind. This made for a pretty rocky boat ride. Who knew a giant ship could rock that much. Well, it did and it left Ben feeling a little green all day. He hung out in bed for most of the day trying to catch some relief. I think there was one member from each family who was sick. We went to a show that night and I kept waiting for one of the dancers to fall. It didn't happen. They must be used to it. haha. Anyway, our flight back went well too. This time I had Ben next to me, which was a big help He is a great entertainer and Ruby sure loves her dad!
Christmas! For those of you that know me well, you know that winter and Christmas time is my absolute favorite. Honestly, living in Alaska for 3 years made me love and appreciate winter more than I ever did before. I think the snow is absolutely gorgeous and such a great reminder that our sins are washed clean. Christmas is a great time of togetherness and it just seems like everyone around you is a little more cheerful. It seems like this year with everything going on around us in the world, we all need a little more cheer and most of all we all need a little more Jesus. I'm thankful for Jesus' birth and it is my prayer that He is the reason for this season. It is so easy to become wrapped up in the lights, the trees, the presents, and great family time and forget why we celebrate in the first place. I'm excited for Ruby to witness Christmas for the first time (outside the womb) So far she is more into the lights plugged into our outlet cover instead of the tree itself. I'm ok with that. I'm not sure that will stick, but here is some wishful thinking. I put up our little Charlie Brown tree in Ruby's room. It is fun praying with Ruby. She witnesses Ben and I praying and honestly whether we are praying at dinner or whatever, she silently just watches. Ruby is not that silent. It is just really cool to see her notice something a little different. I also sing to her every morning when I go get her in the morning This is the day that the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it......She gets the biggest grin and dances away in her crib. It's my favorite. Anyway, this just goes back to my prayer of teaching Ruby about God and praying that she will grow up to follow Him. I think Christmas is such a great time to step back and focus on God and be thankful. Thanks for reading this long post! I appreciate all of you! Merry Christmas!!
Tuesday, November 3, 2015
Thankful!
Hey Everyone,
Ruby is 9 months old. Seriously? When did that happen? Well, it actually happened on October 29th, but you get my drift. I may be biased, but I think she is the happiest baby on the planet. That could be because she has that wonderful feeling of being full once again. She is still doing well with formula along with table food. Right now she is totally digging peas and carrots. Can't complain with that. I wish her mom loved them just as much. Yep, I still force myself to have my veggies every day. Some days are better than others.
We had Ruby's 9 month check up and all seems well. She 17 lbs 7 oz and 2' 2.5" She is a petite little thing, but definitely has some lovable thigh's. She has her two bottom teeth and JUST cut a tooth on the top. This tooth was much less painful than her bottom teeth. Let's hope that's how teething goes from here on out. Ah, wishful thinking. She crawls all over the place. She pulls herself up onto anything and everything, including Moose. Poor Moose. He is so tolerant of Ruby and her ways. I think if I could read his mind he would just be saying, "WHYYYYYY?" All day. She has started babbling a lot more and I'm pretty sure I heard a mama mamma in there. The best part of our day every day is when Ben gets home. I thought that I got excited when Ben got home. Ruby is starting to show me up. I think we are going to have to start racing to Ben to get the first kiss. Seeing Ruby smile when he walks through the door though is so heartwarming! Ruby has also starting waving at anyone as soon as they say hi or you say hi to someone. She also has started clapping and bouncing up and down. In a couple of weeks we will be taking off to Miami to board a wonderful Disney cruise with the rest of my family. We are SO excited, but I'm freaking out a little on the inside when I think about flying with Ruby.
Did you guys forget that I'm 16 weeks pregnant? Me too. I mean? Uh. When I was pregnant Ruby I knew how many weeks and how many days I was pregnant. I followed all of the pregnancy apps and knew exactly what was going on with my growing baby. With this pregnancy when people ask, I have to first remember that I'm pregnant and 2 have to think really hard about how far along I am. I know that sounds really sad and that I don't care, but I do. I'm just starting to get a pregnancy belly. My pants fit, but my shirts are getting a little snug. I feel absolutely wonderful and I can't wait to start feeling the baby move. When I went to my doctors appointment today I was so relieved to hear the heartbeat. It took a little while because the baby kept moving. My gut still says boy, but who knows....that could change. We will have the ultrasound in a month. I can now say this officially, but my sister is pregnant as well. She is due a couple of weeks after me. We are still trying to get them to move from Fargo to the Minneapolis area. I don't think it is working though.
We had a great Halloween weekend in Fargo. Ruby dressed up as a pirate. It was fun watching my niece and nephew trick or treat. They were at the perfect age where they would just run door to door giggling all the while and were just so excited. We had a blast! Thanks Sarah for hosting us all!
I just started going to MOPS and it has been a huge blessing for me. Ruby goes to a nursery for two hours and I get to be with other moms talking about a variety of things that has to do with being a mom and just a woman of God in general. Ruby and I also had our first "play date" at my friend Jen's house. Let me tell you, this woman is incredible! She has two adorable twin boys who are 6 months ( I think) and a little girl who is 2 years old. Anyways, Jen...if you are reading this, I think you are great and you are a blessing in my life! I met her and Donna (another wonderful momma in our play date group) through MOMS club. If you are a stay at home momma, I definitely recommend getting involved with other moms. You need to get out of the house and have adult interaction. It is good for you! :)
Anyway, life is so good right now and God has truly blessed me. It has been one of the hardest years with my dad passing a way only months ago, but it has made me cherish my relationships that much more. God is faithful and I honestly don't know how I could do life without my relationship with the Lord. I'm also thankful for all of you!
Ruby is 9 months old. Seriously? When did that happen? Well, it actually happened on October 29th, but you get my drift. I may be biased, but I think she is the happiest baby on the planet. That could be because she has that wonderful feeling of being full once again. She is still doing well with formula along with table food. Right now she is totally digging peas and carrots. Can't complain with that. I wish her mom loved them just as much. Yep, I still force myself to have my veggies every day. Some days are better than others.
We had Ruby's 9 month check up and all seems well. She 17 lbs 7 oz and 2' 2.5" She is a petite little thing, but definitely has some lovable thigh's. She has her two bottom teeth and JUST cut a tooth on the top. This tooth was much less painful than her bottom teeth. Let's hope that's how teething goes from here on out. Ah, wishful thinking. She crawls all over the place. She pulls herself up onto anything and everything, including Moose. Poor Moose. He is so tolerant of Ruby and her ways. I think if I could read his mind he would just be saying, "WHYYYYYY?" All day. She has started babbling a lot more and I'm pretty sure I heard a mama mamma in there. The best part of our day every day is when Ben gets home. I thought that I got excited when Ben got home. Ruby is starting to show me up. I think we are going to have to start racing to Ben to get the first kiss. Seeing Ruby smile when he walks through the door though is so heartwarming! Ruby has also starting waving at anyone as soon as they say hi or you say hi to someone. She also has started clapping and bouncing up and down. In a couple of weeks we will be taking off to Miami to board a wonderful Disney cruise with the rest of my family. We are SO excited, but I'm freaking out a little on the inside when I think about flying with Ruby.
Did you guys forget that I'm 16 weeks pregnant? Me too. I mean? Uh. When I was pregnant Ruby I knew how many weeks and how many days I was pregnant. I followed all of the pregnancy apps and knew exactly what was going on with my growing baby. With this pregnancy when people ask, I have to first remember that I'm pregnant and 2 have to think really hard about how far along I am. I know that sounds really sad and that I don't care, but I do. I'm just starting to get a pregnancy belly. My pants fit, but my shirts are getting a little snug. I feel absolutely wonderful and I can't wait to start feeling the baby move. When I went to my doctors appointment today I was so relieved to hear the heartbeat. It took a little while because the baby kept moving. My gut still says boy, but who knows....that could change. We will have the ultrasound in a month. I can now say this officially, but my sister is pregnant as well. She is due a couple of weeks after me. We are still trying to get them to move from Fargo to the Minneapolis area. I don't think it is working though.
We had a great Halloween weekend in Fargo. Ruby dressed up as a pirate. It was fun watching my niece and nephew trick or treat. They were at the perfect age where they would just run door to door giggling all the while and were just so excited. We had a blast! Thanks Sarah for hosting us all!
I just started going to MOPS and it has been a huge blessing for me. Ruby goes to a nursery for two hours and I get to be with other moms talking about a variety of things that has to do with being a mom and just a woman of God in general. Ruby and I also had our first "play date" at my friend Jen's house. Let me tell you, this woman is incredible! She has two adorable twin boys who are 6 months ( I think) and a little girl who is 2 years old. Anyways, Jen...if you are reading this, I think you are great and you are a blessing in my life! I met her and Donna (another wonderful momma in our play date group) through MOMS club. If you are a stay at home momma, I definitely recommend getting involved with other moms. You need to get out of the house and have adult interaction. It is good for you! :)
Anyway, life is so good right now and God has truly blessed me. It has been one of the hardest years with my dad passing a way only months ago, but it has made me cherish my relationships that much more. God is faithful and I honestly don't know how I could do life without my relationship with the Lord. I'm also thankful for all of you!
Wednesday, October 14, 2015
On Number 2
Two under two? Many are probably thinking we are crazy. We might agree. Some are probably wondering if we meant to do that. Some are looking back to see just how old Ruby is. :) Here are some answers for our sweet news.
Yes, this baby was planned. Kind of. We didn't realize it would happen so soon though. Either way, we are thrilled! Ruby is 8 months old right now. Born January 29th. The new baby is due on April 19th. They will be just about 15 months apart. We had our first initial OB appointment last Friday. Ruby was sitting on Ben's lap while my Doctor was trying to get the heartbeat. Ruby in the meantime was talking away and being her silly self. As soon as she got the heartbeat, Ruby was silent and looked over at me. It was the sweetest thing! I will never get sick of hearing the heartbeat. I have a gut feeling that this baby is going to be a boy. Who knows though. We WILL be finding out. :)
The first trimester was rough in the way that I was SO tired! Whether it was because of pregnancy or because Ruby was waking up every 2-3 hours. I was walking around like a zombie. I could also only drink a cup of coffee. That is all I allow myself when I'm pregnant. I have not had any morning sickness, which is nice. I think God probably knew I couldn't handle being a zombie and throwing up.
I keep telling people that we are two and done.....until we decide to try for number 3. Ha! I can tell you that number 3 won't be coming when number 2 is 8 months old. ;) Ben and I are super excited to be expecting again. We are excited that these two will (Lord willing) be super close. I definitely had the thought of feeling sorry for Ruby that she won't get very long to be the only child. However, I quickly realized that she won't know any different, so it is definitely ok. I also am still wondering how on earth I will love this second child as much as Ruby. I know all of you with multiple kids will say it is indeed possible, but I won't believe you until I experience it. It's just how I roll. Trial and error kind of thing. When baby number 2 comes along, Ruby will be walking and climbing and into everything. Yikes! With Ruby, I would literally hold her while she slept for 3 hours at a time. I would not move. I soaked everything in. Things with number 2 are definitely going to look different. Any tips will be welcomed!
As many of you know, Ruby and I have been struggling with sleep issues for about the last 3 months. Interesting, I'm 13 weeks pregnant! Hmm. Well, Ruby started getting fussy during the day quite a bit and was still waking up every 2-3 hours. So, one day (wish I would have done this earlier) I decided to pump and see how much I was getting. I only pumped about 2 ounces after going for about 4 hours! Meaning, I was basically starving Ruby and she was getting all she could and it would satisfy her for only about 2 hours. Well, Ben and I decided to introduce Ruby to formula. My first thought was that I failed. I failed Ruby, it was somehow my fault. I'm SO over that embarrassed/shameful feeling now. Ruby took to the bottle really well. She took to formula really well. Poor girl was just super hungry! The first night of being on formula she went down at 7:00 and woke up at 11. My first thought was OH NO! It isn't working! I sent Ben in and he was able to rub her back and she went back to sleep. Side note: he is an incredible daddy! She then slept until 5:00 in the morning. Did you read that? Read it again! She slept until 5 in the morning! That was pretty much 10 hours of sleep! I fed her a bottle at 5 and she continued to sleep until 8:30. I was beside myself. The shame went away as soon as I realized that was exactly what Ruby needed! Last night, Ruby slept from 7-4 and then 4-7:30. This mama is happy to be getting some sleep again too! Ruby has also been significantly more happy during the day as well! Her personality comes out more and more each day. I absolutely love it and love her so much!
Well, our little family is heading up north to Ely to visit our friends John and Katie Townsend. We are excited to see some fall colors and of course see our dear friends! Thanks for reading and please continue to pray for our growing family! We appreciate all y'all!
Yes, this baby was planned. Kind of. We didn't realize it would happen so soon though. Either way, we are thrilled! Ruby is 8 months old right now. Born January 29th. The new baby is due on April 19th. They will be just about 15 months apart. We had our first initial OB appointment last Friday. Ruby was sitting on Ben's lap while my Doctor was trying to get the heartbeat. Ruby in the meantime was talking away and being her silly self. As soon as she got the heartbeat, Ruby was silent and looked over at me. It was the sweetest thing! I will never get sick of hearing the heartbeat. I have a gut feeling that this baby is going to be a boy. Who knows though. We WILL be finding out. :)
The first trimester was rough in the way that I was SO tired! Whether it was because of pregnancy or because Ruby was waking up every 2-3 hours. I was walking around like a zombie. I could also only drink a cup of coffee. That is all I allow myself when I'm pregnant. I have not had any morning sickness, which is nice. I think God probably knew I couldn't handle being a zombie and throwing up.
I keep telling people that we are two and done.....until we decide to try for number 3. Ha! I can tell you that number 3 won't be coming when number 2 is 8 months old. ;) Ben and I are super excited to be expecting again. We are excited that these two will (Lord willing) be super close. I definitely had the thought of feeling sorry for Ruby that she won't get very long to be the only child. However, I quickly realized that she won't know any different, so it is definitely ok. I also am still wondering how on earth I will love this second child as much as Ruby. I know all of you with multiple kids will say it is indeed possible, but I won't believe you until I experience it. It's just how I roll. Trial and error kind of thing. When baby number 2 comes along, Ruby will be walking and climbing and into everything. Yikes! With Ruby, I would literally hold her while she slept for 3 hours at a time. I would not move. I soaked everything in. Things with number 2 are definitely going to look different. Any tips will be welcomed!
As many of you know, Ruby and I have been struggling with sleep issues for about the last 3 months. Interesting, I'm 13 weeks pregnant! Hmm. Well, Ruby started getting fussy during the day quite a bit and was still waking up every 2-3 hours. So, one day (wish I would have done this earlier) I decided to pump and see how much I was getting. I only pumped about 2 ounces after going for about 4 hours! Meaning, I was basically starving Ruby and she was getting all she could and it would satisfy her for only about 2 hours. Well, Ben and I decided to introduce Ruby to formula. My first thought was that I failed. I failed Ruby, it was somehow my fault. I'm SO over that embarrassed/shameful feeling now. Ruby took to the bottle really well. She took to formula really well. Poor girl was just super hungry! The first night of being on formula she went down at 7:00 and woke up at 11. My first thought was OH NO! It isn't working! I sent Ben in and he was able to rub her back and she went back to sleep. Side note: he is an incredible daddy! She then slept until 5:00 in the morning. Did you read that? Read it again! She slept until 5 in the morning! That was pretty much 10 hours of sleep! I fed her a bottle at 5 and she continued to sleep until 8:30. I was beside myself. The shame went away as soon as I realized that was exactly what Ruby needed! Last night, Ruby slept from 7-4 and then 4-7:30. This mama is happy to be getting some sleep again too! Ruby has also been significantly more happy during the day as well! Her personality comes out more and more each day. I absolutely love it and love her so much!
Well, our little family is heading up north to Ely to visit our friends John and Katie Townsend. We are excited to see some fall colors and of course see our dear friends! Thanks for reading and please continue to pray for our growing family! We appreciate all y'all!
Pulling herself up onto everything.
This is one of my favorite pictures. She is such a cheeseball!
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