Robertson's

A month away!

2010-06-19T16:42:00.002-05:00

Wow, it is truly amazing how quickly a month can go by. Lots of things have happened over the past month, but we are all wonderful! Lots to catch up on - starting with Kate's 3rd birthday post (April 25 - yes I am so behind!!). We are loving life and I like to say I am living it - this means sometimes I get behind on preserving our memories. I have decided my kids will remember the moments I share with them and that is what creates and molds the beautiful young girls I have been blessed with. Yes, they will treasure the moments I capture on paper when they are older, but I would not trade my childhood memories for a hard copy anyday. Trying to live in the moment - not in the past or the future. God has given us now!! Oh, how I've changed over the year! This does not mean I do not have good intentions of capturing and recording as many moments as I can!!!

Catch up posts coming soon! Love to all!

All in a day's work

2010-05-17T20:37:00.003-05:00

We are smooth sailing these days, but I cannot keep up with the blog like I want - story of my life I guess. I've been thinking a lot about what I want to do in my spare time (ha!) and currently I am working on digital scrapbooking. I have done a very lousy job with traditional scrapbooking since the girls came along - finally something to scrapbook and just do not seem to enjoy it as much nor have the time, but I really like the digital stuff. With all that being said, probably won't be updating the blog as much - not too different from the past year I guess, but writing it down for myself more than anything so I don't have to feel guilty - yes, I feel guilt over not updating my blog - HILLARIOUSLY SILLY!! I am going to make a goal of updating weekly just for family and friends to keep in touch with us and I know I have some readers that enjoy reading about the crazy's called the Robertson's!

Now on to the good stuff!

ALL IN A DAY'S WORK:

1. Cleaning up more diarrhea - cloth diapers, paper diapers, bathroom rug - disgusting!!!- than I ever dreamed possible when I first became a mom - poor Addison was sick today - hoping for a healthy girl tomorrow!

2. Waking my sleeping husband who is working nights currently to help retrieve a cheerio that was misplaced in a certain someone's nostril (Addison) - I tried but it was getting farther in not coming out! Thank goodness for my pediatrician husband who came to the rescue!

3. Placing Kate's prized Mother's Day Out crafts and coloring sheets on top of the car to be forgotten about - that is until I walked in the door at home and asked her what craft they did today - oops! I quickly changed the subject.

4. Rearranging my "pantry" - a linen closet- to find a cake mix I knew I put in there somewhere but just could not find - I FOUND IT! Sorry Chris cake will be done tomorrow!

5. Reading, Singing and Rocking my sweet Addison as she cuddles up next to me - I wonder how long this will last - I hope for a long, long, long time!

6. Reading and discussing books and bible stories with Kate and singing her "special" songs before bed. Laying next to her while she drifts off to sleep thinking about how fast time has gone.

7. Remembering how blessed I am and so thankful Chris is on vacation next week - yes, I am counting the days!! One more month and the dreaded intern year is over - time truly does fly when life is crazy and full of fun!

Kate and Addison

2010-05-09T18:30:00.004-05:00

Kate, you came into my life over three years ago. You officially gave me the title "mommy". You changed me from the moment I laid eyes on you. Kate you have taught me how to love more than I ever thought possible, not to sweat the small stuff and that laughing feels so much better than crying. Over the past three years as your mommy I have come a long way. Concerns of napping and ounces in have turned to concerns of learning numbers and letters. You bring so much color and enthusiasm to our family. You crack me up with your newest sayings and discussions with inanimate objects. You can tell quite the story and almost make a believer out of me. God has great things in store for you. I never dreamed the baby I held in my arms on April 25, 2007, would be an independent, free spirited, fun-loving little girl like you. I love you!

Addison, from the time I carried you life was full of questions. From extreme morning sickness to where I would deliever you to where would I bring you home. You rocked our world early on and continue to do so. You screamed on the way out and screamed for the first 3 months of your life - poor baby in so much pain and I did not even know. Addison you changed me as a mother. You taught me to stop and smell the roses. You gave me the opportunity to really embrace motherhood and seize the opportunities - they can go so fast. God sent you to me and I am so thankful that you changed me. I love rocking you each night as you cuddle up next to me. You are quite the little firecracker and stand your own. You are just as independent as your sister and I have a feeling parenting Kate first was to prepare us for you. You are so loved!

To my sweet girls. Motherhood is more than I ever dreamed it would be. I would be lost without you! Always remember you are the daughters of the greatest King!

"Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart." Psalms 37:4

love my girls

2010-04-19T20:34:00.002-05:00

Easter photo shoot

2010-04-18T13:58:00.008-05:00

Here's to all the women who attempted to take a "family" picture on Easter Sunday by themselves! As you can see we gave it a shot and did the best we could - love it! What memories. Never dreamed I would EVER take my girls to church on Easter Sunday (or church for that matter - cannot remember the last time Chris was able to attend with us - not by his choice I can assure you!!!) by myself, but I did and was privileged to do so. The journey of residency has taken our family to places I never thought possible, but how we've grown and changed and how blessed I am. Aren't they beautiful!

okay folks

2010-04-16T21:11:00.002-05:00

I feel like all of my posts lately revolve around the same thing - where has time gone....

Chris was off on Thursday so I took the girls to MDO - I know bad of me, but I needed the break and even when Chris is home there is not much of a break for mommy!! He still saw them far more than a normal day! Anyway, we tackeled the unthinkable - 5 boxes of paper that has been accumulating since we moved. Papers from when we sold our house, bills, Addison's birth certificate information and oh yes the social security card information.

While on that note - do you realize we, the Robertson's, organized (in a past life) Sara were forced to file an extension on our taxes because we did not have a SSN for Addison - how embarassing she is nearly 10 months old.

With all this being said - it is so refreshing to have uncovered the mess. It is finished we are finally settled and officially unpacked.

I have so many pics and stories to share, but our silly computer will not upload them. Trying to work out the issues and hopefully we'll be up and running soon.

I miss blogging about the girls and our life more regularly, but man it is crazy around here. Everyone says intern year is the hardest - they better not be lying! We are almost there - so close I can taste it.

Here's to finishing whatever it is that drives you crazy. All my boxes are gone, so now it's the computer/pic problem for me!

Stomach bug from... and a few other tidbits

2010-04-08T19:44:00.003-05:00

The Robertson's have been under the weather to say the least this week. Kate woke up vomitting on Sunday night and poor thing she is still having diarrhea - acts like she is feeling better, but still not eating. Chris and I both had a milder version - thank goodness but it has been a long week!

On a lighter note - I am really beginning to like Little Rock. When we moved out here (almost a year ago) everyone said it would take a year to really get used to a new town - well, I can verify that. I honestly hated it at first and felt so alone, but I have made friends, gotten involved with bible study and church activities and honestly Little Rock finally feels like home!!

I am finally getting sleep - two weeks ago on a Sunday evening I had had it (those of you who facebook might recall a status update that was somewhat um a downer!!) Anyway, I finally let Addison cry it out and it has paid off. She cried 45 minutes the first night and about 20 minutes the next few (not many) and before I knew it the girl was laying down on her own for naps and bed time and SLEEPING all night (12 hours) most nights - not always!!! I am here to tell you, sleep is precious. I had no idea how exhausted I was from getting up every 2-3 hours for 9 months! So, some of you are thinking my success is unfair - I agree - at 9 months most kids probably would have fought harder. I guess Addison was meant to be a good sleeper, but I just could no let her be - I needed the assurance of having her in my arms. By the way, I still rock her for 10 minutes or so - LOVE IT!!

The blog is getting a little word heavy and no pics - well, I tried to upload pics and the computer was giving me fits. It truly is ancient and I need to get things switched over to the current laptop, but as you know that is a huge undertaking. I'll try again when I have a FREE moment (laugh out loud - what mother, especially a resident's wife has free time!!)

Hope all are well. Have been out of cyber land for a while, so I have some catching up to do. Have a happy weekend - Chris is off tomorrow and the parents are coming in for a visit - OH HAPPY DAY!

Where has the time gone?

2010-03-28T20:43:00.003-05:00

Life seems to be flying by lately. Seems as though I am always a day behind and the to do list consistently is increasing instead of decreasing. Today has just been a day that I could have used a husband and my girls could have used a daddy, but instead sick little girls and boys were handled with care by our daddy and hubby. I know God has called him, but sometimes it is so difficult.

A conversation with Chris recently went something like this, "Remember when you reminded me to turn off my closet light." (Chris) Laughing I said, "Yeah, that was when everything was in order and I had time to worry about lights being left on. Which Sara do you prefer, the old one or the new one that cannot remember if the water bill was paid on time." Laughing he said, "A happy medium would be nice." (He was kidding of course).

Over the past year I have grown and changed so much. Today I cried more tears than I have in a long time. Life is hard and at times it seems so unfair. I am so thankful that God is teaching me to seize the moments I have with my girls and enjoy time with them. The dishes can wait, the laundry is not going anywhere and believe it or not, the bills always seem to get paid. Do I miss the old me, oh yes - how I wish I had it all together, but would I trade all that I have for an organized filing cabinet - NEVER!

I love you Kate and Addison. Chris we miss you more than you know!

God is good

2010-03-20T13:53:00.002-05:00

Almost three weeks ago God provided for the Robertson's in a huge way. I have been wanting to share our good news since it happened, but oh how little ones keep you busy and we have been away from home for almost two weeks now (way too long, but circumstances made it that way.)

As you know Addison did not tolerate any over the counter formula. We were instructed to give her Neocate (a complete elemental formula available online only). Neocate would cost us $37 every two days - hello, we definitely do not have that kind of money. Our parents had said they would help out, but I really did not want to depend on them financially. We had looked into WIC previously and Chris made $300 per month too much. We were also in the process of looking into the possibility of our insurance helping cover the costs. After talking with them it seemed highly unlikely that was an option.

SO.... we prayed and waited. One afternoon I knew something had to be done the samples were getting close to being gone. a) order Neocate online or b) try to figure out another option

I chose the latter. I went back online and read that sometimes WIC will cover the cost of formula based on a child's diagnosis and with a perscription. Hmmm... maybe just maybe this was the answer.

After three phone calls I had an appointment with the WIC office. I contacted our pediatrican - I cannot sing her praises enough (we love her!!)- to obtain a perscription. Perscription in hand with a 9:30 appointment and both girls in tow we headed to the WIC office. Two hours later we left the WIC office(okay, so when dealing with government ran programs time is really of no essence - but I did not care!!) being certified for EIGHT cans of formula per month - praise God!!!

Chris was talking to a nutritionist at the hospital about the situation (we needed one more can to make it until our supply was available) and she said the we should ask if we could get 11 cans since we were not getting food and the perscription was written for more ounces/day due to her condition.

I got back on the phone and beginning in April we will be receiving ELEVEN cans of Neocate per month from WIC - God is absolutely amazing and always provides. We will probably have to purchase 1-2 cans per month, but that is nothing in comparison to 13!

The story just gets better (if you are still reading!!!) I finally decided to make payment arrangements with the hospital to begin paying Addison's medical bills. The lady I was talking with asks me if we would qualify for the financial assistance program. I said um, not sure but tell me about it. After talking with her, I think we might qualify for some assistance. We are in the process of feeling out paperwork to see if the hospital will cover a portion of Addison's medical debt. Pray for this process - it is not as black and white as we initially thought, but I know whatever works out God will take care of us.

The last part of this story brought tears to my eyes and complete inability to speak. All of these things happened within two days of each other - still just get chills. One Wednesday Chris was just having an awful day - one of those days that resident wives say happen and you just wait for it to happen to your husband. It was that day, the day I had to encourage, the day Chris needed me to tell him God has a plan for you. YOU CAN DO THIS! The day we got a $500 check from a family whom I know is in the same financial spot we are. The only request in their letter was that we pay it forward. Readers, God is great!

Never before in my life have I felt so unworthy of such a financial gift. I have been the giver before, but honestly it was harder to receive than give. I immediately thought I should send this back. Then I remembered our prayers for God to provide. I know this family is a Christian family with God at the center of their lives - meaning God laid it on their hearts and they obeyed. Many times since that day this family pops into my head and I pray God blesses them more than they can ever imagine. That is what God did for us through them.

I have learned so much from the week of provision from God for our family. I learned that when we pray and trust God to provide - He does, not always in the way we think. I learned that when other people obey Him it affects more than just them. I learned that it is a blessing to receive and that you should allow yourself that opportunity.

God is amazing! Chris and I have been married for almost 6 years and through our marriage God has always shown himself to us. Over the past nine months God has allowed us to go through some of the toughest life adventures, but in the tough times sometimes we receive the biggest blessings. Life has not been easy by any measure over the past year, but God has been there every step of the way and provided more than ever expected. He has brought our family of four closer and Chris and I have grown in our marriage. Thank you for all of your prayers and support. I cannot imagine life without God first and foremost, but not sure what it would be like without family and friends either!

How time flies!

2010-03-16T08:45:00.003-05:00

Well, it's been a long time since my last post and I have so much good news to share about Addison and our journey, but catching the moment to get all the right words out seems to be impossible. I made a LONG trip back home last Tuesday for my grandpa's funeral and am still visiting family. The girls are enjoying family, but we all MISS Little Rock and Daddy - I said it, we miss Little Rock (it finally feels like home!) I will say that God is good and always provides more than you expect when you put your trust in Him! I'll give all the details soon. Hope everyone is enjoying the approach of spring!

Let's see

2010-03-04T20:14:00.003-06:00

So, seriously sickness go away and NEVER come back!! Addison and Kate have been under the weather this week. Kate has popped back but poor Addison is still fighting something - Dr. Daddy came home yesterday and decided she needed some meds. Should be well soon!

This was my day yesterday....

Catch a pot holder on fire while cooking dinner
Holding 8 month old while unwrapping hot sweet potato (avoiding her crying) and wouldn't you know she grabbed it and burnt her hand - she's okay, I put it under cold water immediately
While eating dinner - Kate gags, vomits up entire dinner and then yes drinks out of my cup - disgusting!!

That sums up how yesterday went (should I add that Chris was um well let's see - WAY LATE getting home and extremely frustrated with things) - thankfully there is an end to those days and with the sunrise comes a new day - a fresh start!

There's this little girl...

2010-02-28T20:09:00.006-06:00

that means the world to me. Kate has been such a trooper over the past 8 months with moving to a new town, sharing mommy with not only a new sister, but one who required/requires lots of attention and care. This little girl keeps me on my toes and always offers up a new challenge - good and bad!! I love her more than words can express. She wears many hats around our house, here are a few.

ADVENTURER (swinging at the new playground we found - just in time for spring!)

PLAYFUL ONE

EXCELLENT LITTLE MOMMY (her babies were taking a bath in a big tub like Grammy and Pops's house)

CRAZY

INNOVATIVE (We decided to paint our body with glitter glue - what a mess!)
EXPERIMENTER ("I was getting the last little bit, mommy." - pudding out of a snack cup while putting Addison down for a nap. Not sure why the sour face - I could not keep from laughing when she told me the story.

SCIENTIST (Water table at the Wonder Place in Little Rock)

MOMMY'S HELPER

I cannot do a post about our Kate girl without sharing a few of her most recent funny stories. Last Tuesday as I was getting her out of the car for bible study she proceeds to tell me that her parts were talking (that is what we call our girl stuff). I said really, what were they saying. I'm not sure what all she said, but something about them laughing came out - you never know with this girl!

I had another one to share but my memory is getting awful. There are so many moments with this girl that just crack me up. You never know what is going to come out of her mouth. And yes, she loves to be naked - we have one rule -must always wear panties!

One of the most important things to this little girl right now is her doll house. Oh my goodness - I am so glad we decided to get this for Kate for Christmas. She absolutely loves it. Morning, noon and night she is requesting that you play doll house with her. If you visit our house - you will play doll house - no one is off limits (including Chris's resident friends - yeah, that's right Neil and Blaine have played doll house - the secret's out).

Most of all Kate is the best big sister Addison could ever ask for. She is always on watch for her - making sure she doesn't eat something off the floor (her babies have food allergies -too cute), climb on the fireplace and she better not get near the doll house!!

Oh how I love you Kate. Today was a day that many prayers for patience, guidance, patience, patience, patience were said, but I would never trade you in a heartbeat and love you just the way you are!

Bumps along the way

2010-02-26T08:28:00.003-06:00

I keep telling myself the posts revolving around Addison and her FPIES will soon be over and I can consistently blog about our daily life, but what I am realizing is that this is part of our daily life.

Just when things were looking up and I found myself feeling "normal" and seeing sleep and complete happiness in our child we hit a wall.

It seems that when I quit mixing breastmilk with the Nutramigen Addison was unable to tolerate the formula. We went from a very happy, playful, sleeping 8 month old to an extremely fussy, irritable, rolling as if her tummy was in pain, stinky poo (TMI - I know), and about three hours of sleep at night. She also starting rejecting the formula but acting so hungry. In a 12 hour stretch she only drank six ounces - by far not enough. The child care worker at bible study even made comment that she seems so hungry but she will only take a few sips and then begins to cry and refuses the bottle - not sure what is going on. Chris had noticed that her skin was not looking as hydrated and she was becoming pale again - all signs that are not good. My motherly instinct told me something wasn't right and I found myself slipping back into extreme emotion of my child is getting sick again - why is this happening???? Chris is working nights right now - and of course nights are just scary when your kid is not doing well and you are alone at home.

With all that being said Chris got in contact with the allergy doctor and she told us to try a different formula - Neocate. This formula has to be ordered and is extremely expensive. The nutritionist gave us five cans to try. I hurried down to the clinic to pick it up on Wednesday afternoon and Addison sucked down a bottle immediately - I was starting to feel better and a sense of relief came over me.

After being on Neocate Wednesday evening and all day Thursday Addison slept at night again and she is back to her happy playful little self.

I know God has a plan for her little life and along the way He is teaching me so many things. He deserves so much more than I give Him and I am so grateful for his love and care for us - especially my children.

I pray each night that God watches over both of my girls, but I feel so much gratitude for what He has done for Addison.

Financially we cannot do this, and honestly when I think about the fact that she could not tolerate what most kids with soy and milk allergies take I realize how severe her allergy is and emotionally it is draining, but like I told my parents God did not bring Addison into this world to leave us to do this alone. He will provide and He has and will continue to take care of our sweet girl.

So, that's where I've been lately. Thank you for the sweet comments from my previous post - bittersweet endings. I needed those encouraging comments as we went through this trial this week - I was feeling some mother guilt over the nursing when she could not tolerate the Nutramigen.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Bittersweet Endings

2010-02-21T20:09:00.004-06:00

You know those things in life that when you are finished, or your goal has been accomplished, or the good thing you have been waiting on is finally here and then it's OVER - that feeling you are left with inside - it's not regret, complete joy or even guilt it's just that feeling in your stomach that one cannot explain.

Well, I've had one of those experiences in the last week. If you keep up with my blog at all you've read about our sweet Addison and her journey with FPIES. I chose to continue nursing her and have never regreted the sacrifices I made in order to do so. Sure there were times I wished she would take a bottle or sleep through the night without the need of me, there were times I wanted to dive into a huge bowl of ice cream, but we all have will power when it comes to the well being of our children, but regret never!

Since Addison's diagnosis we have known that eventually she would need to be on special formula in order to fulfill her nutritional requirements. I was taking it a day at a time and was hopeful to make it to her first birthday. We had offered her the formula on different occasions and she always refused, so I was not sure how this switch from breastmilk to formula would go - I was very anxious about it.

Two weeks ago I got sick with 102 fever, chills and body aches for the second time in about 6 weeks. I just had not been feeling well and was starting to feel like the diet changes I was making was taking a toll on my body -there were a few other things going on I won't share here : ) I knew the time needed to be sooner rather than later for my health. I was taking extra supplements, but your body just tells you when enough is enough.

BUT, with all that said, I would have never stopped nursing. I just could not do it. I guess that second bout of sickness did my milk quality and quantity in. All last week Addison was fussy and just not her usual self. Chris was off last weekend and over the weekend we both were just confused by her discontent. I thought something was wrong with her mouth because she kept putting her fist in it and crying. Little did I know she was HUNGRY!

Something told me to pick up a can of overpriced Nutramagen - good thing I did. Tuesday afternoon Addison was nursing and just crying and very upset. I began to wonder if my milk was gone. Sure enough it was. I got a bottle and mixed a little bit of breastmilk in with Nutramagen and she sucked the bottle dry - this is a child that had refused a bottle since her hospital stays in October. I cried and knew it was over - bittersweet moment.

God took control of the situation and said it was over. I know He knew I never could and it was time. Even as I sit here now I am getting teary eyed. I have worked so hard to take care of Addison over the past 5 months since her diagnosis and even before when she was so fussy and I did not know what to do to make her not cry - oh how I remember those days.

Someone who saw her today - happy, smiling, and completely content would never imagine what all she has been through and how far she has come. She has been on straight formula since Thursday and is doing great. She honestly seems so much happier - she has a full tummy!! She actually slept throught the night for the first time and took two 1 1/2 hour naps (long nap for us) - yes, she is 8 months old tomorrow and it was a first for us. I know this is what is best for her and she is doing wonderful - it's mommy and her protectiveness that is still struggling at times.

As we close one chapter of Addison and her rare diagnosis, we open another. I know each new chapter in her life will be bittersweet. I am thankful for her health and progression forwards, but oh how hard it is to always leave her in the hands of our Maker.

And She's Off

2010-02-17T21:03:00.003-06:00

It's my chance to make a break for the bathtub - oh how I LOVE taking a bath!
Yeah, I made it without mommy catching me!

If I could just get this leg up a little higher. Daddy didn't quite get a picture, but I was hiking my leg up trying to CLIMB in. Mommy finally put me in!The best part, I get to share it with sister, oh and I love the foam letters. I always have to take one with me to get my jammies on or I scream!

Happy Valentine's Day

2010-02-14T19:44:00.003-06:00

Hope your day was filled with LOVE! I just realized Chris and I do not take many pictures together anymore - need to work on that but too late V-Day (I'm in my comfy p.j.'s already!!) Today was wonderful - Chris was off of work and we actually all got to attend church together - rarely happens these days. Here are some pics of our Valentine festivities.
Kate iced and decorated cookies for daddy and his co-workers. We delivered them to the clinic on Friday afternoon - Kate and Addison were quite a hit.
Valentine presents ready to go! The keyboard and giggling pig were Christmas presents that were intended to be returned but I found them in the garage not long ago and decided to give them to the girls for Valentine's Day. Kate loves her piano and as you can see below Addison's favorite part of her gift was the card!

Four Months Ago Today...

2010-02-13T20:28:00.003-06:00

Our lives were forever changed. Jesus held her tight and prayers were answered. How truly blessed we are.

Where to Start?

2010-02-11T18:59:00.003-06:00

Last night I finally did it - uploaded pictures. I had not uploaded pictures from my camera since October 10th - insane! I do not know where to even start. Our family has had so many adventures between then and now, but for now I'll just update you on the girls.

Kate is such a great big sister. Always concerned about Addison and what she is doing. She cannot wait for her to walk and completely be able to interact with her. Kate loves to play with her dollhouse and her legos. She is quite a little mommy as well - she keeps her babies in line! Kate is such a smart little girl and loves to be NAKED - we require panties at all times. Hard to find appropriate pics of her right now! Then there's Mr. Bear (yes, he's got pink flowers on him, but long ago I referred to him as Mr. Bear and it stuck). Mr. Bear goes everywhere Kate goes - the potty, school, grocery store, EVERYWHERE! This little guy ranks really high and is well loved, as you can see!

Addison is a little climber. Today I was working in the kitchen and I heard the piano - Kate was on the couch and that's right, Addison had figured out how to reach the keys and with a big grin was playing away. She attempts almost anything and is constantly on the move - in the direction of where I am going most usually. She is such a blessing to our family and I just love her chubby little cheeks. I often refer to her as my "breast" friend - she loves to nurse. Today while I was pumping (in hopes of getting her on a bottle soon) she was climbing all over me attempting to move the pumping gear in order to indulge herself - crazy as ever!

This picture says it all! Oh how thankful I am!

THIS tiny LITTLE WORD...

2010-02-10T19:56:00.002-06:00

So there's this really small two letter word that trips a certain someone out in our house. So you ask, what might that word be..........................NO.

As a matter of fact that word might just be the biggest issue for my sweet little girl who is set to turn three at the end of April.

This word makes heads turn, legs kick, bodies flop and yes the occasional 360 degree spin - some might consider her to be an Olympic athlete of the future. Those are just the body movements. We are so talented that we are able to include a face full of tears, once in a while a continuous buzz sound (not sure how to describe that) and even a cough or two in between.

Oh how I love you sweet precious Kate, but oh how I wish you could just understand that NO means NO and regardless of your actions - It Will Not Change.

I love you - here's to loving our amazing two year olds!

Baby it's snow outside!

2010-02-08T18:50:00.002-06:00

So far in Little Rock the meteorologists have not been impressive. The last two icings/snows we have had were not even predicted and about a month ago Little Rock shut down to a trace of snow- people it was crazy!!

Wish I was more organized and could share pictures - BUT, still have not uploaded pics since October - where does time go????

Little Rock has 6 inches of snow and it was beautiful this afternoon watching it fall to the ground. Our good friends sharing this crazy journey of residency with us have never really seen/lived in snow. Last weekend it iced and they were psyched, Chris and I laughed and told them it wasn't snow, but today they got to experience it all - driving included : )

We've all been sick so we didn't get the girls out in it today, but hopefully tomorrow we can all bundle up and enjoy some snow. Kate loved it last time, Addison not so much - so we'll see.

Hope you are all staying warm!

Proud little wifey

2010-02-02T19:34:00.002-06:00

Maybe some of you caught the Dateline NBC episode Sunday night showcasing Arkansas Children's Hospital - and yes, that is where Chris is doing his residency. I am one proud little wife after watching the report. It is pretty amazing to watch and know that your husband is saving lives and training at such a great facility and program. Obviously I already knew this through our experiences with Addison, but now the world does too!!

It was a great report and should make any resident spouse feel proud. It was taped over the course of last year, so Chris is not in the report, but he works side by side all of those who are.

Here is the link if you are interested in watching. Enjoy - all you mommy's out there, a tear or two might be shed. It took me back to our visits with Addison (very similar to a few you will see in the report - tons of people crowding over a small child while the room is full of doctors and pharmacists, etc. - um I completely melted when I walked into that) and I am so thankful that God protected her and she is with us today! Forever changed is what I always say. Thank you Jesus!

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/3032600/

It's easy to lose yourself...

2010-01-21T19:52:00.002-06:00

to residency (blah! blah! blah!) - same story of working tooooooo many hours for toooooooo little pay!

to a sick child who is a book of health - funny how that works

to a camera card full of pictures yet to be seen by anyone, including myself!

to a garage full of boxes still waiting to be discovered - hmm, they might just have to wait another couple of years

Seriously, life has been crazy over the past seven months (Addison turns seven months tomorrow and we moved when she was 5 days old - crazy!!) but I have learned so much! I really take life minute by minute and laugh so much more than I used to - God has a sense of humor. From our struggles of leaving friends and family moving into an apartment where I thought the walls might just close in on me to almost losing what is most precious to us - our sweet Addison, to falling into slight depression after the fact trying to digest it all, to moving yet again (but into a house - so full of excitement), to facing the fear of allowing Addison to EAT - yes folks it was some anxiety to overcome, to umm - hate to admit, putting my child back in her bed (she slept with us for about 3 months - not recommended!!), to here I am back on the internet - hoping the streak will continue and I can continue to LIVE!

Over the past few months I have learned a few things...

Always look forward - learn from the past, but do not dwell on the past
God never leaves you - seems elementary, but I had to be reminded
If ______ happens then ________ - I feel like God allowed me to attend a Beth Moore bible study (Esther) at our church last spring in preparation for our journey this year. I did not get to finish the study, but one thing I took from it is this principle: Whatever your worst fear is of happening to you happens, you will still pick yourself up and move forward. If Addison gets sick (that Oct. 13th night - dies) then, I will continue to live and take care of my family - I was there people!
God places people in your life for a reason. I have made a life long friend in Little Rock - it felt like it happened overnight!
Do what you can and let the rest be done by other people - hard concept for me. I want to do it ALL!

I know I have learned so much more, but I'll quit boring you with my come back to the blog moment! Anyway, life is going well. Addison is doing great - sleeping in her own bed, eating a few fruits and veggies, CRAWLING everywhere and cracking up at everything Kate says and does! Kate is Kate. She loves life and lives it to the fullest. We could all learn a thing or two from her - never hold back, give it all you got! Chris is working hard and on vacation next week - YEAH!! As for me, well, I'm still the same old Sara with a few new life experiences that continue to grow me.

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-24T14:18:00.003-06:00

Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas with Christmas cards unsent (maybe we'll do New Year's Cards - ha!) and pictures not posted, but what a wonderful time of year. How blessed we are to have a Saviour born just to save us.

Addison is enjoying the wrapping paper more than gifts, but hey she's loving it. She's a whopping 6 months old now and is growing into quite a ornery little thing - we love her sooooo much!

Kate is all about Santa this year, but she knows it is baby Jesus's birthday and I love her to explain the story of baby Jesus - too cute as she talks about it in her language.

Merry Christmas!

In Existence!!

2009-12-13T19:05:00.004-06:00

Yes, the Robertson's still exist and yes my blogging has dramatically decreased over the past 5 and 1/2 months and majorly decreased over the past two months. Life has changed so much and I find myself praying for a moment of "me" time most days - usually it doesn't occur - therefore the things I like to do - BLOG, etc... have been put on the back burner.

Update on Addison - still putting trust in God. Her lab results came back last week and her pyruvate and lactate continue to be elevated and the panel of about 30 tests that were done, one of them came back elevated - this is metabolically related. Her pediatrican is talking with the geneticists who reported on her labs. L-CHAD is what she could also possibly have on top of FPIES. Thankfully Addison is not exhibiting any of the symptoms and is developmentally doing great! I still find myself questioning all of this and wondering if it will ever end, but trying to put my faith in the Father.

Kate - silly as ever. She loves her new house and was only mildly confused that we still live in Little Rock - the brain of a two year old. She loves to eat frozen chicken nuggets and frozen waffles - pre - cooked, but still weird to me! She is so protective of Addison and is already super careful about food around her - she will say she has an allergy. It is so fun to see her developing into a little girl.

Chris - um who is that - oh, that's right it's the pediatric intern that randomly appears at odd hours in our house. Boy, I never knew this journey would be so difficult. Thankfully his November and December rotations are supposed to be the toughest of the intern year. In reality he gets 4 days off per month, has been on call more times than I can count and works extremely long hours - preaching to the choir for a lot of you resident spouses out there.

Then there is me - Yes, I am still Sara, but at times I feel like I have totally lost myself amidst residency, packed and unpacked boxes, a strict diet (no brownies on rough nights), and two beautiful girls (one of which depends on me for everything right now). I am the Sara who ran the show and was always upfront and now at times I am thankful to end the day without having shed tears. God is growing me so much through this process of finding myself (Chris is my best friend and how I miss him) and coping with "it all".

I have so many things to share that we have experienced over the past almost 6 months in Little Rock - let me tell ya, Arkansas knows how to throw a State Fair - ha! ha! Oh and if the next time you talk to me I have a slight drawl you'll know why - I've been living in Arkansas!! I'm working on a post of all the memories we've made so far and plan to publish it soon.

Please continue to pray for sweet Addison. Pray for her health. Pray for her sleep - depends on me for that too! Pray for wisdom of those taking care of her. PRAY.

I'm thankful for...

2009-11-27T10:33:00.003-06:00

This year Thanksgiving meant a little more. I am thankful for my sweet precious little girl, Addison who has blessed the socks off of our family. Pray for her as we go for more blood work on Monday. All her test results came back and she has elevated pyruvate, lactate and some fatty acids are also elevated. The pyruvate and lactate are being repeated and a second test is being run to tell us more about the fatty acids. It could all be due to diarrhea, but they have to rule out any other issues.

Kate is thankful for...
Daddy
Mommy
Addison
Daddy
Mommy
For having a trip

I'm so thankful for Kate and her spunkiness, Chris and his devotion to our family and my family for their support during these hard times - THANKS!

Forever changed...

2009-11-18T20:02:00.003-06:00

November 13th marked the one month anniversary of Addison's first episode. Over the past month life has completely changed and I have been forever changed. I have not been checking email, blogging, even communicating with the world except for a few close friends. I needed time to digest all of what went on and needed time to sort things out. I have been at my parents house for two weeks on Thursday - wow, long time away from home. Chris has been working 15 hour days and has had four 30+ hour shifts since I have been away. I cannot say thank you enough to those of you who have continued to lift our family up in prayer - we still need it!

Addison is doing well and will celebrate 5 months on the 22nd of November - time truly does fly. Her almost two week stay in the hospital did us in on sleeping and eating, but I figure eventually things will work back out. She is having more labs done on the 23rd to re-check her lactate and pyruvate levels and I received a call today saying they are adding one more panel of tests - not sure what, the doctor is supposed to call and explain. Addison has become a very happy and playful baby, has two bottom teeth and LOVES her mommy!

Kate has started asking more questions recently about Addison's episodes. Just tonight she was talking to me about trying to help me be patient on the way to the hospital. She is slowly working through things as best as a two year old can. She is so excited about moving into our new rent HOUSE the first weekend in December. It will be nice to finally have a place with a yard to play in.

For me, the biggest issue I face is trust. Some people take Addison's diagnosis of FPIES seriously while others seem to think of it as any other allergy. Both are equally bad and life-threatening, it is just that FPIES is so rare most doctors do not even know what they are dealing with. Addison's allergy doctor told me I would probably always know more than a doctor seeing Addison in an emergency room- scary! Addison has to have IV fluids and must be closely monitored if she ingests anything with soy, milk, or rice - rarest thing ever. Her body goes into "shock". - low blood pressure, etc.

Chris is working hard and needs prayer. I know God has a plan and purpose for our family even in the midst of hardship. Never before has life seemed so scary, unsure and INSANE - but God is bringing us through!

God Knew...
Chris cancelled his rotation to ACH three times during his fourth year of medical school, to end up rotating in September of last year and loving it

In the hush hush process of ranking, Chris ranked OU OKC ahead of ACH (to be closer to family) and right before he submitted he just looked at me and said it's not right - I assured Chris we would be ok and to follow God's direction - there are no accidents!

Addison was born at just the right time. I was able to have excellent care from my doctor (placenta acreta with both babies) but all of her health care has been in Arkansas with the most amazing pediatrician.

After Addison's second episode we were almost dismissed and I was actually told by an attending to quit entertaining the thought of it being an allergy - how dare her! That was the only thing out of the ordinary on both days that Addison had an episode. To make a long story short, a new doctor saw Addison the day we were to be dismissed without a diagnosis and she immediately knew what it was - her friends child (who is also a resident at ACH) has FPIES as well - now you cannot tell me that is a coincidence!

There are so many ways that God has shown Himself to us during this time. He chose to allow Addison to continue to bring happiness to us on this earth. I cannot say I know what it feels like to lose a child, but I can say I know what it feels like to think you lost a child. I have never pleaded with God about anything like I did on the way to the hospital on October 13th - the words, Jesus don't take my baby poured from my mouth and please God protect her. I'm sure Kate thought I was crazy but I didn't know what else to do - the worse feeling I have ever felt.

I am returning home in a few days and I know life is going to be complicated with residency and establishing a "new" normal, but I feel like I'm ready for the challenge again after visiting with friends from Tulsa and getting time to take care of myself with the help of family. Thanks to all of you who held us close. Word traveled fast and I know the prayers from even strangers were heard by God - Thank you!

Forever Changed...

News...

2009-10-27T13:50:00.002-05:00

I know some of you who read are wondering what's going on with Addison. We are still waiting to hear all the results from the metabolic testing - should know something hopefully this evening or tomorrow. This is a genetics thing and any of you who know anything about genetics know it is confusing!!!

Concerning to momma is the fact that she has started diarrhea diapers again. Poop never meant so much to me. Pray for those to cease!

Kate is doing well through all of this - we have gotten so off schedule and honestly it may be a while before things calm down. One milestone we hit last Friday coming to the hospital to pick up mommy and baby Addison - the WHY QUESTIONS!!! There are lots of why's in her life right now, so I guess it was fitting.

Why? Why? Why? - wish I knew!!

Addison

2009-10-24T16:59:00.002-05:00

I'm sure that most of you who read my blog regularly have already heard on Tuesday night we had basically the same event happen that was described in my previous post. Chris said he liked how I detailed things in that post, but I don't think I can relive it again, so I'll just give you the facts without all the emotion - sorry if that is boring!

Addison has been diagnosed with FPIES- Food Protein Induced Enterocolitis Syndrome. This is a very rare allergy of soy, dairy and rice - possibly more later. Unlike an anaphylactic allergy that is responsive to epinepherine (epi-pen) FPIES is not. If she ingests, we will have episode like the last two and immediately must call 911. Her BP goes low and she needs IV fluids, etc. at the hospital to recover. In talking with the allergist Friday, it appears that Addison is on the extreme end of FPIES - it is really scary and dangerous. I will become the organic allergy mom! One encouraging note, some kids grow out of FPIES around 3 - that's our prayer.

This journey is not over due to the metabolic tests. Initially the genetics doctor did not think her high levels were worrisom, but they continue to be elevated. After re-testing Friday morning, her pyruvate and lactate levels are elevated and in the critical levels. A Genetics doctor discussed with us keeping her and beginning work ups to see what is going on metabolically or going home, resting and seeing/talking to him on Monday - hardest decision I've made, but her little body had no more veins to poke and she needed a break (so did momma and dadddy). He feels that the levels should have normalized in this time frame. This is all very confusing, but hopefully we will have more answers soon. We were instructed to return to the ER if she presents with any atypical behavior. Pray for her safety and peace! Thanks for the prayers! We know God is in control!

Over the past two weeks God has been showing me how He worked this out. I'm not quite ready to post of all God did to prepare me and provide the best care available to Addison, but soon I will detail it out - it is so awesome how God goes before us and prepares the way!

In the blink of an eye...

2009-10-18T18:40:00.005-05:00

What is most precious to you could be ripped away. This is how I felt Tuesday night when Addison nearly stopped breathing and the ambulance was lost.

Happy, smiley self, baby Addison as we refer to her around here took a turn for the worse on Tuesday evening around 8:00. Chris and I had been out for dinner and left her and Kate for no more than an hour at our church for free childcare - I felt guilty, but I think for my marriage it is important to utilize these opportunities (not sure when/if I will get myself to again). We got home and started bedtime routine. Kate was fussy and tired, but honestly Addison seemed fine. Chris was taking off her clothes and a full out vomitting episode occurred. He turned her over and pounded her back and she seemed okay. We rinsed her off, etc. and I took Kate to bed while Chris finished up with Addison. Suddenly I hear a voice call out my name - Chris is sounding scared.

Addison had vomitted a second time and became white as a sheet and was not really responsive. She was breathing but very shallow and faint. She was wobbling her head and her eyes were opening and closing very slowly. Chris immediately told me to call 911 - he knew she needed oxygen fast. He was doing a great job, but was very scared. Addison looked scary and was not doing well at all - very unresponsive to anything.

Ambulance arrives after I called back to verify where they were at - I could hear them all around, but not in sight. I flagged them down and got them to the door. The paramedic took her straight to the ambulance and asked for a blanket. Chris followed - she knew he was a pediatrician.

Kate and I got in the car - its all a blur as to how I drove to the hospital. I repeated over and over in my head the exits I needed to take and out loud I was begging God not to take my baby. Kate never quit talking. She kept telling me to be patient we would get there. I was upset because I could not keep up with the ambulance. For those of you who don't know, I'll share with you a little bit of info about an ambulance ride. If they are running with lights and speeding, it is bad - this means the patient is not doing well. I was going 10 over and the ambulance was no where in sight- I was hysterical to say the least. Preparing myself for really bad news.

Finally, we arrive. I get into the ER as quick as I can - passing my friend Christine (I had called her to come get Kate), going through the metal detector and round the corner to find my baby in the trauma room with about 20 people surrounding her - nurses, pharmacy, attendings, residents - you name it they were there. I handed Kate to Blaine (Christine's husband, a resident with Chris) and I lost it - totally broke down. The social worker calmed me down and to Addison I headed. She was being poked everywhere - so many tubes, but she was crying - tears never sounded so good.

Addison had blood drawn, urine analysis done, spinal tap, CT scan, x-ray, poop cultures done, and probably more - and nothing has been found so far. Praise God, but it's hard not to have answers. They are concerned about her acid reflux - thinking she may have aspirated along with severe dehydration from diarrhea and vomiting causing the incident.

Looking back, her bowel movements had increased, but I thought that was good - her system was working better (I was wrong). While in the ER Addison received 3 boluses of fluid (equivilant to 3 bags of fluid for an adult) and did not have urine until 5 am the next morning - DEHYDRATION at its best. Addison cracked her first smile at 3 am, but didn't laugh until well into the next day. We spent three days hooked up to IV fluids praying she would start eating by mouth better and eventually she did. She stayed awake for about 5-10 minutes at a time for two days. I'm here to tell you this little girl was sick!!

Shortly after things calmed down in the ER, I found out that Chris had to bag her in the ambulance - I knew it was bad if they were running fast with lights. Praise God Chris was home, this might have had a different ending. The paramedic was uncomfortable with the pediatric patient and was not responding real well. You are never supposed to have to bag your own child, but Chris was able to - how, I have no idea. At one point in the ambulance the paramedic told the EMT to call ahead and let them know it was worse than expected - it was bad! They labeled Addison as ALTE - Acute Life Threatening Event. They were prepared for the worse.

No more questioning why we are here - God brought us here for such a time as this. Chris was off for three days and encouraged to be with us, attendings, the program director, tons of residents all came to check on Addison and gave their opinion. God has provided Chris and I with great friends Blaine and Christine and they totally stepped up for us. I was hysterical with Blaine on the phone and he knew they were needed. They took care of Kate for us without any hesitation. God has provided life long friends for us. Christine and I have had lots of adventures together already and I know we will have many more. Our church family visited, called and prayed for us. It is so difficult to know how your church family will come through for you until a need arises - they were there and have continued to check on us. We praise God for providing them for us.

I will never be the same. One thing that kept creeping through my brain while I was speeding to the ER was I have no regrets. I have rocked my sweet baby to sleep just about every night since she has been born. She is a fussy little toot at times with all her tummy issues and acid reflux, but I have found so much joy in her. I have left the dishes another day, the laundry in baskets and the clutter around the apartment to spend more time with my girls - not a regret one! Why God allows us to go through such tramautic events I'm not sure, but thankfully when it is all over we have Him to trust in, right now that's what I have to do - it is so hard to sleep.

Prayer - the prayers that went up for this little girl were numerous. All over Oklahoma people were praying and in Arkansas the word spread fast too. So many people lifted up my baby - people I didn't even know. My brother-in-law called a friend who was with a group doing PX90 and they stopped and sent up massive prayers. Prayer works! I truly believe my baby is here with us today because people prayed and God allowed her to stay here on earth with us longer. He provided Chris with wisdom, knowledge and the ability to work on his own child. He simply allowed Chris to be off of work (one of three days for the month). He provided a quick friendship with Christine which allowed me to totally focus on Addison while Kate was with her.

GOD IS IN CONTROL!

Addison is home!

2009-10-16T17:09:00.002-05:00

You may or may not know that we've been in the hospital since Tuesday - got home this afternoon. Haven't had much sleep - brain still isn't working that great, but praise God Addison is doing better. It truly was a scary time. Just wanted to say thanks to those of you who prayed Tuesday night and have continued. I'll give the full story soon, but pretty exhausted at the moment.

There's this guy...

2009-10-10T22:15:00.006-05:00

Who is extremely sleep deprived and finds himself missing the last 5 minutes of any show (wait, he doesn't have time to watch television) he is watching. Misses his girls tons when he is working, but makes the most of every moment with them.

And looks really um, "HOT" in a white coat - especially a long one!

Chris, Daddy we love you and miss you so much. Thanks for working so hard to take care of us and even though life right now seems impossible most of the time you could not make us any more proud. WE LOVE YOU!

keepin it real...and two beautiful girls

2009-10-02T21:10:00.002-05:00

Okay, so I have totally dropped the ball on "my plan" - life's too short to dwell though, right!!! So, here is a quick catch up on the Robertson's and hopefully I'll get back on track with blogging! Chris was on vacation the last full week of September - loved every minute of it. He started Wards on October 1 - urgh! He only has three days off for the month, three overnight calls, four long calls (late evening) and a two day retreat - single parenting at its best!! - just kidding, well kind of anyway. He is all here when at home and is the best daddy in the world. These hours are killing him, but he knows God has a plan for him. Addison was 3 months on the 22nd of September and Kate is approaching 2 1/2 at the end of the month. A friend from church told me about a dance class her little girl is in and they needed a couple more little girls to keep the class, so Kate joined. She loves it so far and is so stinkin cute. Her teacher is one of the minister's wife's at our church. Isn't God great! Addison is giggling and smiling so much. She is a bit spoiled - colicky baby = spoiled baby, but she's definitely a keeper. I took them to have their pics made today and I fell in love all over again. Here are a few.

Thursday's Thoughts....Ha! Ha!

2009-09-18T08:34:00.003-05:00

So on Wednesday I was having a "I'm bored with my blog" moment and decided to take an adventure and try to organize every day by theme - my thoughts are totally not going to happen. So, in saying that I'm going back to my old ways. I am going to try to show more of our crafts and "school" type of activities and plan to use the tot school blog to assist in this - it really is a cool blog. I am going to weigh in on Wednesday's and continue to give tips, etc. This helps keep me accountable and hopefully will help others along the way. There you have it - I am crazy! Those of you who know me in real life know that and know my big aspirations, at least reality hit rather quickly yesterday - won't give you a play by play, but it was a stressful day!!

In great news - Chris starts vacation today after he gets off of work - YEAH! We are going to take the girls to Hot Springs for the night - thought that would be fun. Kate has never stayed in a hotel. Tuesday after bible study we are heading back to OK! We are so excited.

Hope everyone has a great weekend! I'll see you next week, not so scheduled : )

Blog Business

2009-09-16T13:29:00.005-05:00

There are two parts to my bloggy business today. First if you notice I have added some new blogs to my list. If you have been added and would rather not be listed publicly, email me or leave me a comment and I'll remove you. Also if you are a reader and I do not know about you!!! - leave me a comment and I will add your blog to my list - I would love to keep up with if you are keeping up with me!

The second part of my bloggy business is something new I am going to try - hopefully I'll have time to do this and keep it up. I've been thinking lately of ways I can keep family up to date on the Robertson happenings, provide an outlet for myself to write what's on my mind and have fun on my blog. I love blogging and it really does help me stay sane, especially now with Chris gone so much. So, I have decided to have a theme for each day of the week. Here it goes.

On My Mind Monday
Tot School Tuesday
Weigh in Wednesday
Thursday's Thoughts
Family Friday

On My Mind Monday - Here you will find things that have been circling in my mind - maybe for the day, weeks or months.

Tot School Tuesday - If you notice I added a link titled Tot School. A friend of mine introduced me to this blog - really cool - check it out here. I am going to try and incorporate some of her ideas and some of my own and blog about what Kate has done over the week on Tuesday's.

Weigh in Wednesday - Exactly how it sounds. So if you've recently joined me you can read about my weightloss struggles, etc. here. Addison was born on June 22 and I weighed in at 177 - I gained 35 pounds with her pregnancy. I lost 15 pounds without doing a thing, but I have 20 pounds to get back to pre-pregnancy weight. Every Wednesday morning I will step on the scale and keep track of my progress on my blog. I will also try to give tips, healthy recipes, etc. that I have learned along the way. I have not started exercising yet, but plan and will today. I am not much of a dieter - doesn't work well for me, but I always try to be mindful of what goes in my mouth!!! If this is a journey you want to take along with me, make Wednesday your weigh in day and post your success on my comments. You do not have to be as bold as me and post numbers, but you can always brag on how much you've lost - I want to celebrate with you, it is a TOUGH journey!

Thursday's Thoughts - Thursday's will be another opportunity for me to post my thoughts. Always expect something random!

Family Friday - Friday's are the days for grandparents, family and friends who want to know what cuteness Kate and Addison have been up to. I will post pictures and give you a recap of our week.

I am going to try this system and see how it works. I am excited to have a format - I thrive on a schedule (although I still have yet to get a real good one at home - ha! ha!). Hope you enjoy!

So excited.... bible study!

2009-09-15T13:21:00.004-05:00

Anxious and nervous I headed off to bible study to make friends, oh yeah that's right and to grow in my relationship with Jesus : ) - just kidding with the sarcasm - it's for both.

Addison screamed the entire way - I have decided some baby's are just not always happy. She's one extreme or the other and lately it's been tears ALOT - but I'm embracing it!! Honestly I feel sorry for her - tummy issues prevail! Kate just loves church and every opportunity to go, so she was excited.

The church is offering four different studies, one is geared towards moms and is titled Mom To Mom - based off of Titus 2. Anyway, I am so excited - lots of girls from Sunday School attended and the lady who is leading is my senior by 40 years or more - isn't that great - so much wisdom. This is not just any old bible study - here is the layout.

We have two separate books we are going through. When we study Apples of Gold (once per month) - we will be meeting in older lady's houses where they will teach us things (cooking, etc.) and then eat an early lunch with them - so neat right. When we study the Mom to Mom book (twice per month) we watch a video and discuss, etc. - very typical bible study format, BUT they have incorporated what is titled Snipits - (hair dresser showing us tricks, photographer teaching how to take good pics, etc.) - how fun!! The last Tuesday of the month we will be going to a Rice Factory (I think that is what she said) to do volunteer/ministry type of work.

So, I am so excited to get this opportunity. I have never been a part of something that incorporated different areas of service. I already feel more a part of what is going on.Just wanted to share!

I challenege/encourage you to get involved in some kind of mom's group - the support is necessary to make it through this blessed, but challenging time of life. I look at my girls and feel so blessed and undeserving.

It's Official

2009-09-14T21:55:00.003-05:00

Well, we finally took the plunge on Sunday and joined Immanuel Baptist Church in Little Rock. This was hard as ever. We LOVE our church family in Jenks, but we know we have to find a place to serve here, so with lots of prayer we felt like this was where God was leading us.

Kate absolutely loves the church. They have an indoor and outdoor play ground, it is a jungle themed pre-school facility with a fish tank and a nice old guy gives out suckers to all the kids when they leave (she calls them sticks). It made our decision so much easier since she loves going to church - only cried the first Sunday.

Addison is taken well care of - yes, I'm the mother that leaves the baby early. She was staying in nursery at like 4 weeks. I figure there are fewer germs in the nursery, she gets held and rocked instead of being toted around in the carrier, and I get a break for a couple of hours. I love how they have things set up. I feel completely comfortable leaving her.

Chris and I have been attending a bible fellowship class with young couples like ourselves. We are still working on forming relationships - that has been much harder this time around. Tomorrow I am starting a bible study for mom's, so that should be great.

Here is a picture of the girls from Sunday. Kate had to wear that jacket to take the dogs out to potty and wouldn't take it off for pictures and the bow was long gone! - oh how I love my 2 year old!! - I really do!!!!

Still here!

2009-09-11T13:43:00.002-05:00

Cannot believe it has been over a week since I last posted. So much has happened in the Robertson house. As usual I do not have pictures uploaded, but maybe this weekend I'll find a few minutes to do so : )

Chris started an amazing rotation in September - yeah for Developmental Pediatrics. Great hours, no weekends or call - does it get any better - oh yeah, he has a week of vacation coming up at the end of the month. I must say we NEEDED this month to come - August was long and hard, but we made it.

Over Labor Day we decided to head back home and we visited Chris's parents for the weekend. Kate had so much fun playing wit Patience and Rhett (her cousins). Papa took them fishing and Kate caught the first and biggest fish. She also went to see chickens, goats and lots of other fun things. We all got some much needed rest - didn't realize how little rest we have been getting with the apartment noises - which will be over soon!!! We had a lot of fun and I will post some pictures soon.

Addison is getting bigger each day. She is smiling so much now and is very interactive. Being a mommy the second time around has been so much more relaxing for me. I am enjoying the moments as they come instead of always anticipating the next milestone.

Kate is a 2 1/2 year old going on 16. She is full of attitude and spunk. Love her dearly, but there are days that I find myself overwhelmed with parenting - can I get an amen!!

Hope everyone has been well! Have a wonderful weekend!

Mother's Day Out

2009-09-03T20:59:00.003-05:00

Kate went to Mother's Day Out for the first time today. We called it "school" and she was so excited. I was actually a little sad when I left her this morning - she couldn't wait, but it was a sign my baby is growing up. I feel so blessed to have this option. The church we have been attending and plan to join - Immanuel Baptist Church- provides this service to members and prospective members for $6 for one child or $8 for two on a drop in basis. Not only is it dirt cheap, but they also provide a curriculum. After picking Kate up this afternoon she told me she had lots of fun. I cannot believe how big and grown up she is getting. She has missed all of her friends in Jenks/Tulsa, so hopefully she'll start making some new ones. Here is a picture of her this morning - the best I could get.

Blessed

2009-08-31T21:58:00.001-05:00

Schedule

2009-08-26T18:53:00.005-05:00

So I've been thinking a lot about our schedule at home. I have always wanted to provide Kate (and now Addison) with opportunities to expand her knowledge and create fun memories for her. I never just wanted to be the mom who sat around and did not interact with her kids. Adding baby #2 has really been hard with this aspect - there are feedings every 3 hours, diapers, naptime, and fussiness that take away from structured activity time and the ease of going places.

With this all being said, today I made a schedule that I hope to start in September. I must admit, with Chris working nights since the last week of July I have been on somewhat of a survival mode - way too much TV, late nights with Kate and spoiling Addison to death - but we've made lots of memories along the way, I just need a little more structure to my day.

Below is my goal for a regular week. Please leave me advice, helpful blogs, books, etc in the comments. I have the Toddler's Busy Book, which I plan to use and have used in the past. And YES, I know my week will probably never go as planned, but for me if I do not plan, it will never get done!!

7:00 - generally time Kate wakes up

7:00-9:00, TV (while feeding Addison), breakfast, get dressed, free play

9:00 - structured activity - "school" time - learning letters, numbers, etc. I also plan to start teaching her bible verses and stories at this time. We typically do this before bed, but I think it would work better during the day.

10:00- TV time/snack (while nursing Addison)

10:30 - 12:00 - free play/ color/ play dough/ puzzles - things along this nature

12:00 - lunch

12:30 - clean up/read stories

1:00 - 3:00 naptime- yeah!!

3:00 - 4:00- snack, craft acitivity

4:00 - TV time (feeding Addison)

4:30 - free play until dinner

Dinner
Play
Bedtime Routine

I hope to follow this type of schedule on Monday's, Wednesday's, and Friday's. On Tuesday's I am going to start attending a bible study from 9:30-11:30, so we will adjust. Kate is going to go to Mother's Day Out on Thursday's (for church members/prospective members only and it is on a drop in basis for $6 - what a deal). I also love to go places, so I hope to do at least one out of the house activity per week. This includes things like the zoo, library, etc. I am sure we will frequent playgrounds during some of our play time when it gets a little cooler.

So, now that I've detailed every hour of my day, knowing I will never be able to completely follow such a schedule, here are my basic goals. Do a morning and afternoon activity with hopes of teaching her letters, numbers, etc. and get out of the house at least once per week to do something fun with the girls. Most importantly sieze the moments I have with the most precious two things God has given me - Kate and Addison.

Big Girl Kate

2009-08-24T22:44:00.003-05:00

I've been holding off bragging on my sweet girl Kate, but I can hold back no longer. Kate you are an amazing big sister and have transitioned so well. You have fully embraced apartment life (you periodically ask for a backyard and we tell you we are working on it - you take it) and moving away from friends - much better than mommy!! I am so proud of you. You are speaking in sentences and so clearly. Some of your favorite phrases right now are "I don't think so" and "I don't know". You love to stick your tongue out while your picture is being taken - not sure why- and when being videoed you want to watch yourself. You love Yo Gabba Gabba and Wonder Pets. You "feed" Mr. Bear at night - just like mommy feeds Addison. You are a precious gift from God and I am so thankful for you. I cannot believe how grown up you are.

Your latest accomplishment brings the biggest smile to mommy's face. You have been asking to get your froggy potty out, but mommy keeps putting you off (I didn't have the time or energy - so I thought). Finally last Tuesday I agreed and you immediately sat down and pottied - Kate, you are one amazing girl - you have only had two accidents since then. You've even been waking up dry most mornings. I never ask you about using the potty, you just go - I guess God knew I couldn't handle potty training because GIRL, you trained yourself!!

I love you!

Addison Claire - 2 months

2009-08-23T21:51:00.005-05:00

Addison, you are loved. In the past two months you have made me a mommy again, given Kate someone to love on and take care of and given daddy another princess. You are such a sweet baby. You came into this world with a peaceful spirit, but that quickly changed. It was so hard not knowing what was making you cry and look in pain, but slowly we got it all worked out. You smile and coo now, especially at Kate. You enjoy your bouncy seat and swing and like catching a glimpse at the TV - your sister didn't know what the TV was at your age!! You are getting so chunky and round - just the way I like my babies. You moved to a new town when you were only 5 days old, you have already visited the zoo twice and even road the train. You love to cuddle with mommy and get a little nervous when sister "holds" you. I cannot imagine life without you sweet baby. WE LOVE YOU!

First trip to McDonald's. On our way to Little Rock when you were only 5 days old.

Your first bath at home. You love your baths now - as long as sister doesn't get to rowdy!

Your first Sunday to go to church - looking pretty as ever!

First visit to the zoo. You were about one month old and slept most of the time.

You suck a pacifier right now, but you really really try to get your thumb in your mouth. I am guessing that very soon you'll figure it out and the paci will hit the road - you really do not like it that much.
Sleeping Beauty! You would love to sleep on your tummy, but Mr. Pediatrician Daddy says no way (and so do his co-workers)! We are toughing it out, but you are doing so much better. You love to be swaddled when you sleep - you still manage to do complete circles in your bed.

Daddy misses you so much. Looking a little scary here - post call!! Daddy worked nights the last week of July and all of August - it was a rough time for all of us.
I promise your dress has a blue polka dot that matches your bow and socks!

Sister is teaching you how to color while you swing. You love your big sister, Kate - she can always get a smile out of you!

Addison, you will always be loved!

In the past 8 weeks...

2009-08-20T20:37:00.006-05:00

Our family of three became four We moved from our home to an apartment

Chris began a journey that in no way was I prepared for There has been lots of cuddling Many, many sleepless nights Looking rather scary here and no I do not advocate co-sleeping. I must say I was so exhausted one night I was standing straight up holding Addison and almost fell flat - Chris saw me. There is a point where sleep is a necessity and at that point I guess I did what I had to do - see above! Thankfully we are doing better now.

Complete happiness and joy!

Tears of frustration and doubt and tears of happiness

We celebrated a special someone's birthday. HAPPY BIRTHDAY, DADDY!

In the past eight weeks God has brought me to my knees many times. This journey is by far the hardest I've ever traveled and in no way could I make it without Him. I have shed more tears in the past eight weeks than my entire adult life probably -feels that way anyhow. I have learned that your circumstances cannot determine your happiness and that God never promised easy. Life is finally looking brighter. Hormones are leveling out (I hope ) - : ) I'm adjusting to "single" parenting - Chris is totally involved when he is around, but life of a resident is hard - seems like you might be married to the hospital at times : ) I feel so blessed to have two beautiful, healthy girls. I can finally say I am genuinely happy, the adjustment has been made - well until the next meltdown anyway - ha! ha! just kidding!

Update

2009-08-11T21:47:00.002-05:00

Thanks for all the encouragment and advice. I felt like I should give you all a quick update on our progress.

Addison seems to be feeling much better without dairy and today I decided I am going to need to cut out chocolate - oh, the chocolate, can I let it go???? YES, after several "large" spit-up episodes that could only be related to chocolate I will let it go!

Kate's "paci" broke while she was sucking on it and it no longer works for her. She has asked about it various times, but I just change the subject or remind her it broke - oh to be two again!

After I find the camera cords, etc. I'll be uploading pictures - can't wait to share with you my beautiful girls!

A whole lot of random...

2009-08-08T19:53:00.005-05:00

Here I sit with an almost 7 week old precious little girl on my lap sleeping while I catch up on some blog reading and email. Today I've been thinking and decided to do a post on a little bit of everything....

at 6:52 pm my entire house was in bed sleeping (minus me) until Addison woke up around 7:20 - the girl is not a good sleeper!!!

I never want to complain or come across as ungrateful for my children, so often I just don't mention the difficulties occuring with the kiddos, BUT.... Addison has been very colic-y and overall super fussy. Crying A LOT - basically when she is not sleeping. The doctor put her on medicine for acid reflux and that helped some, but she was still super duper unhappy - could not figure it out. FINALLY, last week I decided to quit dairy for a few days and see what happened (I had already cut back on dairy a ton, but I quit it all). She seemed better, but I love me some DAIRY, so I tested it by eating a milk shake - bad idea - the next morning she emptied her stomach - not a pretty site!! Hopefully this solves our problem - only time will tell. She seems to be doing much better, so maybe now we can work on sleeping in our own bed for more than 20-30 minutes!!

My 2 year old Kate never took a pacifier and only sucked her thumb until she was 4 months old, so tell me why is she sucking on a pacifier now?????? She found one of Addison's pacifier's - Addison hates them - and began playing with it, which turned into her sucking on it, which has now turned into her enjoying sucking on it, which is now going to turn into mommy taking it away - NO FUN : ) I told her it was going to be gone tomorrow.

I can finally upload pictures and let the world see us again - Chris hooked up the desktop while I was away! Pictures soon - lots to share!

Chris and I were both teary eyed (well I was crying and Chris was choking up) today as we talked to Kate about our old house - the space, the backyard with a playhouse, the walking trails, the playground, the.....

Chris is exhausted - he has mentioned more than once that if he knew what he knew now, he would not be going into this career. He loves it and knows this is what God has for him, but the time away from us is killing him - he HATES that part! The night shift has been truly difficult on all of us - I know it will get better!!!

We are learning to Love life in Little Rock. The people are friendly, the town is a great size, and the terrain is breathtakingly beautiful. This is where we will call home for at least the next three years. This journey has been much harder than we expected, but God has a super mega plan for the Robertson's! I get a gut ache everytime I think about the past, the friends, the comfortable house and all that went with it. God has moved us out of our comfort zone for a reason. Chris has already seen things that I feel certain he would not have if not in this program. He has had the opportunity to PRACTICE medicine - he truly loves the program and people. I have met some SAHM and feel certain will develop friendships. God has provided us with a church that seems to be a fit and will be great for our family.

I am reminded of how blessed I am. In my previous post I mentioned a friend from college and her little boy. Take the time to jump over and read the story about little Ridge - http://www.crazydaycary.blogspot.com/. God will bless you through Alisha's testimony and faith. Thank you Jesus for my beautiful little girls and their health!

Pray...

2009-08-05T22:38:00.003-05:00

Just asking you to pray for little Ridge Cary, born in April. His mom and I went to college together and he has been hospitalized with internal bleeding and has been receiving blood transfusions. You can donate blood in his name if interested. For all the information on how to do that follow the family blog at www.crazydaycary.blogspot.com

Life of a SAHM

2009-07-31T21:22:00.002-05:00

Greet your husband whether morning, noon or night with a scent of spit-up, possibly even remains of the last episode

No matter how organized, there are always dishes in the sink and laundry in the wash

Toys, toys, toys - need I say more

Feelings of guilt if you don't get out of the house and expose your child to the world, but feelings of guilt if you do

Praying for a daily shower - Ecstatic if you get one!

Investing time in the most precious gift available - your children!

Seriously

2009-07-28T11:02:00.002-05:00

Okay guys, life is hectic, chaotic, and full of blessing. I'm trying to be easy on myself, but it is not in my character to feel so behind on things and not have it "all together" - I confess, I DO NOT!!

Yesterday went like this...

After a very restless night with Addison - she is not sleeping people - hard times. I woke up feeling exhausted and somewhat already defeated. Chris got home around 8 in the morning and I was determined to feed him breakfast and get him off to bed. Tears were shed - lots of tears were shed. Kate is doing as well as to be expected, but she's TWO! The television has become a part of our lives like it never was before - I HATE THAT!! SURVIVAL at times I guess - this is a season.

We had a lunch date with a friend of a friend from Tulsa at McDonald's - yeah, getting out of the house. I almost canceled due to exhaustion, but I decided to go. I looked up the address put it in the GPS and made it out the door - oh wait, it was the wrong one. I found myself in a part of Little Rock that isn't your nicest area. I frantically called Chris - no answer. I then tried to call Suzanne - a lady I have never met, but am meeting for lunch - no answer. Okay, Sara you can do this - just head home.

Suzanne quickly called me back and got me back on track - we officially made it to McDonald's - teary eyes and all. Ordered food and much to my surprise - no purse, no wallet - OOPS, cancel that order.

Suzanne arrives and we introduce ourselves and the girls (she has a 2 year old and 4 year old - perfect). Then I have to confess I have no means to pay for lunch.

So there you have it - I cried on the phone and accepted lunch from someone I had talked to on the phone twice. She laughed and completely understood and said she wanted to get together again and have us over for dinner as a family. We had great conversation and seemed similar to each other.

Isn't God a funny man - I really could have done without this excitement, but I guess He saw better.

PS: Still don't have pictures, etc. uploaded - one day maybe things will slow down and we'll be back to my organized self!

Success!

2009-07-23T21:35:00.003-05:00

Today was my first official day to fly solo since Addison has been born and we made our big move to Little Rock. It went fabulously well. Chris left this morning around 7:15 and did not get home until 8:30 tonight, but I had both girls bathed and in bed by 8:07 - Kate was exhausted or she would have stayed up to see daddy. I call this success. I only cried once today - I was trying to walk the dogs with Kate not minding and Addison in the bjorn carrier - not fun at all. Hopefully this will get better.

We are still getting settled in and trying to get things re-organized. I have yet to upload pictures since the move/Addison's birth. I miss blogging and reading up on friends so much, but time just gets away from me and I find myself distracted by other things.

So.... here's to trying really hard to get things organized and back on routine. We are getting there!

Who are you?

2009-07-13T11:02:00.002-05:00

Over the past three weeks our family has undergone major changes - new baby, moving away from friends and family, leaving our house of luxury for an apartment that has nasty carpet that leaves your feet black and has a lingering smell of dog urine (yes, we've cleaned it a million times).

Chris and I prayed about our life changes and this is where God has taken us - easy, no, but in His plan, YES! I am not one to be negative or give up. Even with a 5 day old making the journey to Arkansas, I stayed positive - not worried about the future, BUT.....

Over the past two weeks I feel as though I have given up - that is not who I am! I do not lay down and die.... I meet people, create community and get out of the house. I know that with a three week old, lots of things are difficult to do, but seeing a bright future is something!

I have been back in OK for almost a week now and the time away has been good. I've realized that home is Chris, Kate and Addison - no matter where we live. Home is not our old town and all that went with it - yes life would be easier and I would probably shed fewer tears, but my happiness is with my family. Everytime someone from "home" sends me a text, calls or emails, I get wattery eyed and start thinking back, but I know God will provide all that again, I just have to let him. I have missed Chris like crazy and cannot wait to get back to Arkansas to be with him - the few hours I will see him : )

I miss my SAA group and other medical spouses like crazy - there are some things only these individuals get. There are only two other males in Chris's intern class married - one is expecting a baby in August, the other I could have taught in school!! Both of their husbands have talked to Chris and said they are lonely and bored - so I am going to email them and start having get togethers - I can see clearly now that God has a plan and in a year from now I will look back to these rough few months and see how God was working in me!

WHO ARE YOU?

Trying here...

2009-07-07T14:26:00.002-05:00

So it has been two weeks and one day since Addison was born, one week and three days since we became an Arkansas family. I am um to say the least extremely busy and a bit overwhelmed. Thought I would stop by and say hi and that we're doing okay. The adjustment is more difficult than I thought it would be - apartment life just really doesn't fit our family. - Desiree I totally understand why you guys decided to buy a house!!! Kate is doing great with the new addition, just hard not having a backyard to play in.

My grandmother passed away yesterday, so we are heading back to OK for the funeral. She had been sick for a while and it was expected, so the news was not shocking. I hope to get back to a normal routine soon and get back to posting regularly!!! - I miss my bloggy world.

Hope all are doing well! I'll catch up on reading at some point and I'll get some pictures of my beauties posted as well - how blessed I am!

Addison Claire Robertson

2009-06-22T21:40:00.004-05:00

Addison was born at 2:32 p.m. on June 22, 2009 (today). Sara and Addison are doing great. Chris (the blogger tonight) is doing good too (in case you were wondering). Addison weighs 7lbs. and 3oz. and she is 20 inches long.

Addison Claire Robertson and her daddy. This is a great father's day gift.

Addison is gorgeous! Kate is going to be a wonderful big sister. She is already very helpful. This of course is the family of four. Sara is such a great mom. Doesn't Sara look great? She just had a baby! More pictures and updates to come. So stay tuned.

Happy Father's Day!

2009-06-21T23:23:00.004-05:00

Today was a wonderful day. Chris is such a great daddy and I am so glad Kate and soon Addison get to be his daughters. We skipped church this morning - my fall did a number on my back and I have been having lots of contractions and we hung out all day. I just love spending time with Chris and Kate and today marks the end of "just the 3 of us". I cannot wait for Addison to join us, but I know things will be different.This morning we got out finger paint - what fun, but what a mess. As you can see from the pictures it become body paint (encouraged by her amazing Daddy!). Kate had a blast and made a huge mess, but thankfully it cleaned up very easily. I wouldn't recommend this project if you are a super clean person manning the house by yourself!!

Kate took a nap this afternoon and while I was checking on her this is what I found - too cute to pass up a picture. I love my sweet little girl!

To end the evening we took Daddy to Red Robin for dinner and then to Braum's for a banana split. We had a wonderful day hanging out together.

We are all excited to meet Addison Claire tomorrow!

Sara "Grace"....um NOT

2009-06-19T04:59:00.002-05:00

Well, here it is Friday morning about 5:00 am and I have been up trying to go to sleep since about 3:45. I finally decided to just get up and do something - blogging came to mind. Funny how you can be away for a week and then come back and find yourself thinking about the next moment you get to be on the computer in another world!

So my middle name is not Grace, but it should be. I've officially fallen three times during this pregnancy. Once in the middle of Ross - I was so irritated. Somebody spilt a drink and did not bother to clean it up and my pregnant self wound up on my bottom in the middle of the store - site to see I'm sure. The second fall was in my closet - not sure how this happened, but once again on the bottom.

Oh but yesterday was probably the best and I wound up in the hospital with monitors on for 4 hours - fun times! My sister and I were out shopping for a few last minute things before the big day. We picked up my dogs from the groomers on the way home and my mom and I decided just to put them in the backyard by putting them over the fence - Kate and Ava were napping and the dogs get excited after getting groomed!! Seriously, a hole just jumped out and grabbed me!! I twisted my ankle and fell on my hands, knee and um HUGE pregnant belly. I laid there for a minute thinking, please God do not let me go into labor - Chris is not here!!! I yelled for my mom and she helped me up. I called the doctor and they said I had to go to the hospital since I hit my belly - I thought this might be the case. I stayed calm and about 5 minutes after I fell Addison started moving again - I'm sure I startled her. Everything is fine - I'm just a little sore, but thankfully no labor. Tonight though, the home remedies are starting (except for castor oil!!).

Hello out there!

2009-06-17T20:14:00.002-05:00

Wow, has it really been over a week since my last post and honestly I have not been checking up on blogs much either. Life is good! We have had lots of family visiting, Chris is officially moved to Little Rock, Addison is ready to make her arrival any day (no later than Monday), Kate is sweet as ever and Mommy is busy packing and trying to rest as much as possible. I'm sure it will continue to be hit and miss for a while - sorry for the lack of comments and reading - I'll get back into the groove soon (well, maybe by Christmas - ha! ha!). My pictures are a mess and I really want to catch family up on the latest happenings, so I'm going to attempt to get all of that organized over the weekend, so be looking for some new pics of Kate and all her beauty!

Please continue to pray for us as our family increases in size and we make our big move to Little Rock. We feel so blessed and are so thankful for what God has in store for us!

42 and FINISHED!

2009-06-09T21:49:00.003-05:00

Yes, we showed our house 42 times and actually have an appointment scheduled for tomorrow that will be canceled because we SOLD OUR HOUSE - YEAH!! We officially signed a contract tonight about 7:30. Today while I was resting I was thinking of a funny post about what I've learned showing my house 40+ times and what would you know we got a phone call around 6:30 from our realtor saying we had an offer. PRAISE GOD!

God does have perfect timing. If you keep up with my blog, you know the history of our plans and change of plans, but now I can relax and have a baby without keeping my house "show ready".

YEAH!!

2009-06-04T13:33:00.002-05:00

I went to the doctor this morning for my first appointment to check and see if I was dialated. I have been having lots of contractions and have been up multiple times for multiple hours during the night in pain - it has not been in vain!!! I am dialated to 2 cm and Addison's head is down and ready to go!! I am so excited - this is more than when I went in to be induced with Kate. We decided to induce again with our current situation. Addison Claire will make her appearance no later than June 22 - I really hope she comes earlier so I can experience "going into labor", but if not I am totally cool with inducing!!

Tears of...

2009-06-03T13:36:00.003-05:00

So last night I finally let all the tears out that I've been holding in over the past few months since it was certain we were moving and things just kind of went crazy. I am generally very good at keeping myself under control around others and even family, but I've had a few teary eyes here and there recently, but last night the flood gates opened. I'm sure Chris would have rather been anywhere but laying in bed until 1:00 am comforting me and listening to my tears of...

Pregnancy - yes the hormones are going crazy ladies!
Frustration - sometimes life just doesn't seem fair
What were we thinking? - leaving behind friends that mean more to me than words can ever express is growing increasingly difficult; not to mention moving further away from family
Guilt - Kate has not been doing well lately with bedtime - she seems a little insecure. I know she will eventually adjust and things will work out, but everytime she turns around there is another box being packed, something being given away (downsizing for apartment life), and baby Addison sure is getting a lot of attention lately. Last night I cried while I sat in her room so she would fall asleep - it will be okay - I know that!
Joy - I cannot wait to meet Addison. I know God has perfect timing and she is going to bring so much joy and happiness to our family of three. I can see the two girls and me laughing and having so much fun in the years to come (not planning any more children until after residency - if then - we'll see).
What am I going to do? - that is in a new town (I've only been to twice for a very short time), in an apartment that I have never seen, without any support really (besides prayer - I'm counting on my friends and family here!!), no church home, and no sense of direction (I'm sure I'll be using the GPS lots!!)
Provision - "For I know the plans I have for you", declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11

I am reminded of Philippians 4:6-7, Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

38 and counting ???

2009-06-02T17:34:00.002-05:00

I think tonight's showing will make 38 (2nd today, 3rd one for the week) since we put our house on the market at the end of March. Our house is the last in the neighborhood still listed, it has been the cheapest from the beginning and honestly I do not know why there have been ZERO offers - ZERO!! What I do know is that God has a plan and slowly we are seeing HIS plan, not OURS be revealed. Chris is moving to LR at the end of next week, my parents are coming to stay with Kate and me, and we will be moving out at the end of June - after Addison is born. God has worked this out very nicely and I know He will send a buyer soon.

On Friday we have an appointment scheduled of a guy who used to rent down the street from us and knows exactly where our house is and would like to get back to this area. - Could this be God's plan? I am not going to try and figure God out, but how amazing it would be if this was the one.

Happy Anniversary

2009-05-29T21:15:00.004-05:00

Today marks five years of fun for Chris and I. That's right we've been married for five big ones. How life has changed from "I Do". I would not change a thing - I married the man of my dreams and he still makes me smile and gives me that "feeling" inside. I love you, Chris!
After our wedding headed to our hotel in Texas - oops, we got a little lost and overslept the next morning barely making it to our plane. Oh and then while in Mexico on our honeymoon we got to know each other very well, very quickly - diarrhea, diarrhea, diarrhea - need I say more! Oh the memories! Thanks for a great five years, Chris!

Graduation and all of its glory

2009-05-28T14:17:00.010-05:00

Let the story begin....

During the week of Chris's graduation, there was an event scheduled Tuesday through Saturday - this was not simply a graduation, but it was a long-awaited, much anticipated, one of the proudest moments of my life, I cannot believe it is over occasions! It is very similar to a wedding - built up over a period of time, lots of events with people you have not seen in a few years and then boom - it's over and you are officially ready to begin the next step. In this situation - RESIDENCY- that's right, Dr. Robertson will be starting a pediatric residency in Little Rock on July 1st. Chris and Kate playing at Hunter Park at the family picnic. The weather was beautiful. Kate flew kites, played with bubbles and loved the playground. Chris and I enjoyed visiting with friends and hanging out.On Thursday night Chris and I went to the formal dinner and awards ceremony. I knew in advance about this event and knew it was somewhat formal, so I purchased a black cocktail type maternity dress after Christmas on sale for $20 - it worked great and I felt like a million bucks. I was so nervous about being 8 1/2 months pregnant attending a formal event, but it was loads of fun and the food was great!

Steve and April have been our BFFs through medical school. Steve and Chris truly started this journey together. They interviewed on the same day and met then and I know we will always be friends with the Ballards! We are going to miss them so much. April and I braved SAA together the first year (it's scary as an MSI) and have continued to be great friends. We're having a baby for graduation - they went to Hawaii - not a bit jealous here : ) Just kidding, we're happy for them and they are happy for us!!On Friday afternoon Chris participated in the Christian Oath ceremony. This was probably my favorite event. It was so neat to see the Christian (soon to be) doctors take a stand and commit to practice medicine according to God. Chris received the oath that he took in document form to sign and date. I am so proud of Chris and the man of God that he is.The big question was how Kate would act at the graduation ceremony. It started at 7:00pm - close to bedtime for us and you never know about naps these days, especially with all the activity that went on that day. Thankfully, she took a late nap and sat great watching Daddy walk across the stage - it almost makes me cry now thinking about it. She kept waving at him and smiling - she was so excited! Dr. Robertson looking sexier than ever!

The next few pictures are after graduation with family and friends. I'll fill you in on who is who - enjoy! Daddy and Kate. She would not let him out of her sight.
Proud Robertson Family - Chris, Sara, Kate and soon to be baby Addison ClaireA portion of my family: Scott and Katy (holding Ava) Townley -my youngest brother, Shawn and Amy Wright (Ava is their daughter) - my sister, Steve and Mickie Townley - aka Grammy and Pops and then us!This is something to brag about. The medical school graduates pictured here graduated from Southwestern Oklahoma State University - our Alma Matter. Chris knew all of them before medical school. This is Mrs. Sue Ball, our anatomy teacher. She takes special care for her students and we all loved her! She traveled all the way out from Weatherford, OK to see the graduation.Chris's family: Donald and Lee Robertson (aka Granny and PawPaw), Katie Robertson (Chris's little sister), Beverly Hansen (Chris's grandma from New Mexico), Charles Robertson (Chris's older brother - his wife and two children were at the hotel) and us again!!Proud Parents!
Proud Grandma!
This journey has been one we have accomplished together! Times have been hard, fun and so rewarding. Chris and I started this journey after one year of marriage living in married college housing and ended this journey with a beautiful little girl, one on the way and so many great memories! I am so proud of our accomplishment together!Let the party begin! On Saturday afternoon we threw a party for family and friends in honor of Chris. Cheyenne did the cake and thanks to my mom and Chris's mom we had plenty of food! Thanks to all of our friends and family that joined us in celebrating this moment - you guys have been our support!Still smiling from the night before!Bounce house that Chris bought for the kids. They absolutely loved it. Kate convinced me to get in - I checked the weight limit first - we passed!Friends, friends, and more friends! Still not sure what we were thinking when we decided to move away!

Chris's best friend from high school and beyond - Tony Tyler came to celebrate with us!

Kate and Ava - best of friends and cousins. Thought this was super cute!EXHAUSTED! Notice Chris, Kate and I are all decked out in orange and somehow we didn't all three get a picture together. Oh well, I'm sure you've seen plenty of pictures by now!

The next morning we gave Kate her gift for Daddy's graduation - too much the day before. It was a bear with OSU medicine on it and a stethescope -she loved it!

Great News!

2009-05-28T14:12:00.003-05:00

Yesterday Chris talked through email to the Infectious Disease Pediatrician in Little Rock that he rotated with last September and she agreed that the rash did look very similar to Lyme's and also what is called Starry (more common in OK), but it is typically bigger and also without overt symptoms she probably has just had a reaction to some sort of bite. She recommended we complete the course of treatment (3 weeks of antibiotic) and if she developed any other symptoms to let her know and she would re-evaluate the situation.

What a relief! Kate is doing great and God provided an expert to calm my heart! I know God has great plans for our family in Little Rock and I am so excited to finally get there and be settled.

Update

2009-05-26T20:50:00.002-05:00

Just wanted to update everyone on the Robertson's saga. Chris and I spent the weekend together (Kate visited Grammy and Pops) and really did some searching. A few things have changed in our current situation and I KNOW God has a plan for our family. Our house once again showed 4 times over the weekend and we have yet to have any offers. I have reminded myself many times that at the beginning of this journey I told myself I would not question God and his timing and that if He wanted our house to be available for me to stay in before and after the baby was born then it would be fine - somewhere along the way I changed my mind : ) Well, after a very restless night last night I woke up this morning and told Chris I couldn't move with him on the 5th - he was totally fine with that and things seem to be looking up.

Chris is moving in on the 12th of June (a week later than initially planned) because he has to be there for orientation. Kate and I will be staying here and moving out the last weekend in June (about a week after the baby is born). I know some of you think this sounds crazy, but honestly it is going to be wonderful - I will have my own bed to sleep in and Kate will have her space. Chris will be back for the delivery and be here for a few days and my mom will be around to help - aren't moms the best. I feel so relaxed about this decision and do not know why it took me so long to listen.

The house situation is still extremely frustrating, but we contacted a lady that manages properties in our neighborhood and we can begin the process of finding rentors and keep it on the market. If we find rentors first, we will lease it and if it's a buyer that comes first than PRAISE GOD!! This will totally take it out of our hands and it feels great!

On a totally different note, things just seem to stay crazy. Kate got what we thought was a mosquito bite about a week and a half ago. It seemed to be healing slowly, but we honestly didn't think anything about it. Last night we noticed a ring around it and it freaked me out - Chris immediately said that was concern for a tick bite with tick illness. He was so good and didn't have me worried last night - but he was definitely concerned (I just didn't know it). We took her to the doctor today to have that checked out and she once again had a strep infection in her diaper area - this girl has the weirdest things!! So, the doctor was very concerned and her and Chris discussed that it looked like Lyme's disease - scary people!! She went and got her book to compare it to and sure enough we are on antibiotic treatment for three weeks twice daily - what is happening????? Thankfully Kate is not having overt symptoms and hopefully she will not - please pray for her and mommy (this might be the last straw before the mental hospital - just kidding, but seriously). Chris has great connections in Little Rock (he rotated with ID) and emailed an attending to see if we needed to do anything else. Lyme's disease is very rare in OK, so it is really confusing to us. I'll keep you updated if things change.

I uploaded 115 pictures from graduation and festivities over the past few weeks. I plan to completely catch up on reading blogs and posting tomorrow during the day - it will take me a few hours, so I cannot do it tonight. Chris and I rented a movie and I am excited to snuggle with him. Sorry for the long post! Thanks for the encouragement and prayer.

So, I've been thinking...

2009-05-20T22:33:00.004-05:00

I have so many posts to share and so much has happened in the Robertson's, but honestly right now Chris and I have big decisions to make and we just need prayer. I have decided to not blog for the rest of the week and I won't be checking blogs - way behind anyway. I am going to spend my time in prayer and searching God's will over the next few days and weekend as we look for His provision and guidance in the decisions that have to be made. My break last week was due to busyness, but this week I am going to give my attention to the One who deserves it and is obviously trying to teach Chris and I a lesson that we have not learned yet.

Here is a quick recap of what is going on and to answer a few questions from previous comments. We are heading to Little Rock on June 5th and feel certain that is where God wants us. We have leased an apartment for 6 months, but stronly feel we might extend our lease to a year once we get there (we have not seen the apartments in person, so we hate to commit to a year without seeing them first). Our house is still on the market and has shown nearly 30 times in 7 weeks (no exaggeration). We have had one couple look twice, but decided to lower their price range. We have had some let downs along the way, but overall we have received very positive feedback. Keeping the house "show ready" has been difficult on this 34 week pregnant lady, but Chris and Kate have been great at helping!! We know it only takes one person - we've heard that a thousand times from people - but it doesn't make it any easier to know your house has not sold. Currently we are considering leasing our home, but want to be certain before we go that route. This is an untraveled road for us and we are not sure if we want to go there, but financially paying a mortgage, utilities and lawn care on a house that we are not living in would do us in pretty quickly.

Thanks for the prayers. I promise next week you'll get the entire story of graduation and how proud I am of my man - I could go on and on here!! You might even get a video of Kate doing some really cute things - she is cracking us both up lately!

I'm back...

2009-05-20T13:26:00.002-05:00

It has been a long time and I can officially say I am married to a doctor!! Lots of things happened last week and I had full intentions of posting as they occurred, but man it was pure crazy - FUN, but crazy!! Just wanted to leave a little post saying everything is great and sometime this week I will be posting all of the Robertson happenings, so stay tuned for a complete update (they may all occur in one day, so be sure to check them all)!!

1st haircut and a few silly moments

2009-05-14T15:17:00.004-05:00

Kate had her first haircut on Tuesday, May 12, 2009 (date for my benefit). I was fearful to cut her hair due to the curls. I finally worked up the mommy courage and decided it was time. All I have to say is I wish I would have done it earlier. It is so much easier to brush and her hair has only gotten curlier. Kelly (my hairdresser) said the curl was not going anywhere - thank goodness!! Kate did so well and loved every minute of it, even though she never cracked a smile. Mr. Bear (her attachment) went with her and thoroughly enjoyed the experience as well. I cannot believe how grown up my little girl is getting - she will soon be a big sister and not my baby anymore!

Life has been pretty crazy lately - I'm sure you've read that more than once on my blog. I've not been feeling that great (lots of contractions at night, continuing to have dizzy spells here and there and overall just ready to have this baby - but not yet), our house has been showing like crazy and we are not getting offers (frustrating), and we're moving away from friends (had my first tears on Sunday during church, but I'm okay and know I will be). With all that being said, I needed to do something relaxing, something that gives me peace and absolutely no stress....So, yesterday I got out the baby clothes - YEAH!! So much fun. Kate, Chris and I went through it all - Kate loved it so much. We officially have a box of newborn/0-3 month clothes, burp cloths, bibs and a few other things set aside so it doesn't get lost in the move - so exciting. Kate was trying to put on clothes and talking about baby Addison this and baby Addison that - I just cannot wait for her to get here!!

Kate did manage to get a 0-3 month dress on with bloomers. We had to take a picture of this for memories. This is the outfit Steve and April got Kate when she was born. Kate loves Steve and April and was obsessed with seeing them last night after she put on this outfit.

The last thing that I have to share is hillarious to me and just shows who my daughter is. Before I tell the story I have to tell you that over the last two years I have learned to love Kate's independent, strong-willed, daring personality. Lately one of our challenges has been going grocery shopping. Kate will no longer ride in the cart and wants to walk. I know some of you are thinking - take charge, Momma, make her - easier said than done. She consistently stands up, tries to climb out - when this happens we stop the cart, but do you know how long it would take to get your groceries? Disciplining in wal-mart or wherever is very difficult. We use time-out mostly, but do occasionally spank (to each is own here, no comments on good or bad either way!). Very difficult to maintain control in these situations when you have a very free-spirited child! So, we have started letting her walk, but there are rules to be folllowed - ask before touching, walk by mommy and daddy, obey!! Sounds easy right, not for a two year old - but we're getting better. On Tuesday we had to run to Target real quick - we reviewed the rules and her consequence was coming back to the car. She made a comment about getting a spanking and I told her she only gets a spanking if she hits/kicks mommy and daddy. Kate proceded to kick me (I was in the passenger seat). I told her that when we are playing it is different - she looked at me and clearly stated, "I not playing momma." I love her. I looked at Chris and just grinned. I told him this was a lose/lose situation - we may never have complete control as parents - but then, who does????

In case you didn't WATCH the last post...

2009-05-11T21:15:00.003-05:00

IT'S OFFICIALLY A GIRL!!! We are so excited and baby Addison Claire is doing great! We will welcome her sometime the week of June 22nd.

Happy Mother's Day

2009-05-10T21:35:00.003-05:00

Happy Mother's Day! I hope it was filled with love and happiness. I want to tell my mom how wonderful she is and how important she is in my life. Thanks for always being there for me and teaching me how to be a mom. Kate is so lucky to have you in her life - you are the best Grammy ever! She cries when we leave and asks about you almost everyday, maybe more than once! Thanks for helping when you can and always having a listening ear. I love you more than words can say and appreciate all that you do for us so much. Thanks for being such a great Mom and Grammy!

OOPS!

2009-05-07T22:36:00.003-05:00

Today was one of those days - you know those days where your list is far longer than your day!! It started out great and honestly ended great, but there were a few OOPS moments along the way that I have to share. I'll apologize in advance for the crude talk - you'll see if you keep reading!

This morning Kate slept in - wonderful!! We decided to take her on a walk and go visit the playground. As we are crosssing the bridge in our neighborhood approaching the playground, I stop in my tracks and look at Chris and urgently say, "I am going to have diarrhea in my pants. I need the garage door opener and I'll see you at home." He gives me a blank look and says let me run home and get the car - I assured him I could make it. He stated back that it would be a long uncomfortable walk. Only minor damage was done on the walk home!! (pregnancy is such a joy at times!)

The second OOPS moment came while I was catching up with friends I used to work with and missed a realtors phone call - oh no. Chris was interrupted by the doorbell which woke Kate up from her nap. He calmly asked if he could have 15 minutes and they said that was fine. He put all the dirty dishes in a box and put them in the back of the car and got Kate up and headed out. Thankfully we are keeping the house clean and picked up mostly, but the dishes always seem to get us!! Sorry, Chris, but thanks for coming through!!

What a day!

Camel anyone?

2009-05-06T20:57:00.005-05:00

We took a trip to the zoo on Monday - perfect weather and perfect child - GREAT COMBINATION!! Kate absolutely loves the zoo. I am excited that in Little Rock the zoo will be much closer and I'm sure we will frequent it often. Currenlty there are camels available for riding - what a neat experience. Kate said she wanted to ride a camel, but I was doubtful that she would, but as you can see - SHE DID!! What a big girl, all by herself! We had such a wonderful day and it was stress free.

Here are some pictures from the day!

Let's play catch up

2009-05-06T15:58:00.005-05:00

So, I have not been the best at posting these days. Great intentions, but man where does the time go. I have got to catch you all up on the happenings of the Robertson's before next week's big festivities!! - GRADUATION! Feel free to skip any or all of my randomness that is taking place.

For Kate's second birthday gift we took her to Build-A-Bear. She absolutely loved it and has fallen in love with her new bunny. I would recommend this for a special occasion - it does get a bit pricey!! She thoroughly enjoyed picking clothes and shoes out for her bunny and on the way out, we had to have a purse to match - she is ALL GIRL!!

Giving Sugar an air bath (she named her bunny Sugar - with our help. She has started referring to her babies using this title because of one of her teachers at church calling her sugar). Kate thought this was really cool and still talks about stepping on the lever.

All dressed up and ready to go!

Loving my new best friend!

I've mentioned that we are doing small trips in our town while Chris is at home to have fun with us. We have had a membership to the aquarium for two years now and love it. This is a place we find ourselves often. Kate is going to miss her fish! Bye the way, if you live in my town you get a half price family pass - great deal for only $42/year!!!!

Touching a sting ray. Kate is getting braver and finally, she worked up the courage to touch the sting ray. Chris takes Kate to the aquarium a lot by himself. On this day, Kate got real brave and looked inside the alligators mouth - wait a minute, her head got stuck. Chris said she panicked for a minute, but the alligator eventually gave in and let her keep her head!

RAINY DAYS MUST GO AWAY!! It has been raining here for way toooooo long! Here are some activities Kate has been enjoying while stuck inside - although, her Daddy has taken her outside to play in the rain on occasion and we've definitely gotten out of the house - we all get a bit stir crazy!

Playing with beans - always SUPERVISED!!How do I look? Fabulous, I'd say!
Coloring with Daddy! Daddy loves to color and finished this picture perfectly.
Taking bunny on brief walks around the block in between spouts of rain! Who is that girl in the back? - oh wait, that's me looking good as ever!

It's OFFICIAL - we signed a lease to rent an apartment. I cannot believe I am moving back into an apartment after living in this wonderful home for four years. I am really excited and God worked out all the details - we are getting a great rate, it has a security system, is gated, has a swimming pool and workout facility (get that baby weight off!!). Also, we are going to be able to have an apartment on the bottom level, rent a garage on site to store our household items (lawnmower, treadmill, etc....) - can it get any better? Oh and yes Chris is absolutely thrilled that there will be no lawn care - who is up for moving into an apartment????

Looking Back...Looking Forward

2009-05-03T20:57:00.005-05:00

It's been a few days since I've posted and we have been busy. The rain is driving me crazy and sends me into mild depression it seems. I have been resting as much as possible and I wanted to let everyone know that my blood pressure is super fine. My previous post had some friends concerned. I am one of the fortunate pregnant gals out there that has amazing blood pressure. I am usually like 100/70ish - great!! The problems I am having are due to OVERDOING IT and STRESS - things that I can control, so I'm taking it easy!

I have some exciting posts to share of things that have been keeping us busy during this rainy season, but my camera is in the car so I'll fill you in later this week! Here is a highlight of last weeks fun times!

Rainy Day Activities
Birthday Build-A-Bear
Vacation Days Continued - it's a trip to the aquarium
Strolls Around the Block
2 year WCC - no shots!!
Official housing decision - ooh, ahh

This week brings exciting things, also. Lots to look forward to, especially Friday - I am super excited to finally have an ultrasound to HOPEFULLY find out if my precious little one is a boy or girl! I keep playing it down, because it really isn't that big of a deal and there is so much going on, but now that the time is so close, I CANNOT wait to find out!!

We'll be talking soon! As you can see I have a full blogging agenda for the week, not to mention those unexpected moments that creep up that require a post!

31 weeks

2009-04-29T14:19:00.002-05:00

Today I went to the doctor and there is no revealing how much weight I gained in two weeks - okay, four pounds - what??? It's all those yummy cupcakes and desserts I had last night at our MOPS night out- oh well, the doctor said I was fine.

I have been having some dizzy spells and problems breathing. I've woken up a few times at night gasping for air, but I can usually roll over and get relief - so I have not been too worried about it. Yesterday was a different story and my doctor has given me strict orders to rest - how do I rest?? There is no part of me that finds that easy, but I know I have to.

Our house showed eight times in a five day span, which is awesome and too bad there are still no offers, but six of those were on Friday and Saturday. I had family in for Kate's birthday, we were preparing for the party and realtors just kept calling. There was no way to turn down a showing, but it was pretty stressful to say the least. I haven't been sleeping that well and let's face it - I'm moving away from everything that is familiar into an apartment knowing my husband is going to be spending lots of nights at Arkansas Children's Hospital while I am at home with an infant and two year old - doesn't sound fun at all. I am honestly excited about the next phase, but I think my body is not digesting the news as well as my brain is.

After hurriedly cleaning the house yesterday morning - making it show ready, hoping for a second looker, I sat down at the computer to send out a MOPS email and I just about passed out. This is how my body reacts to stress - it just collapses, it wouldn't have been the first time and probably will not be the last! I lost my breath and got super dizzy, so I laid down on the floor and yelled for Chris. He took my BP, and listened to my heart that was pounding away and told me I needed to LAY DOWN and REST!! Chris decided I should call the doctor - I hate calling the doctor and rarely do. I hate to be the patient that is over dramatic, etc., etc. Well, the doctor took it serious and told me despite all that is going on, I have got to slow down. It's too early to have this baby and it would only complicate things!!!

Here's to a restful next 7-8 weeks (we will probably induce the week of June 22nd due to living in AR, but delivering in OK)!!

Birthday madness

2009-04-29T14:05:00.005-05:00

I know some of you are bored with the whole birthday week theme, but I am no longer scrapbooking much so I have to document for myself! Kate's 2nd birthday party was so much fun. We had friends and family join with us and despite the big day our house showed three times - crazy!! It really was a hectic weekend and thanks to my family for helping out and being flexible. Also, Kate you were a trooper. You missed your nap two days in a row due to house showings and you still had a big smile for your party!! Here are a few candid pictures of the party day!

Birthday on a Budget

2009-04-27T12:57:00.005-05:00

This year for Kate's second birthday my goal was to save as much $$ as possible. Chris was a floral designer through most of college, so he has a love for designing and arranging flowers - quite good at it! He and Kate have a tradition of smelling flowers (fake and real) wherever they pop up. Hence the flower themed party!

We made our own invitations with scrapbook paper that I already had on hand. I received a Cricut machine a year or so ago and we used that to cut out the flowers.

Amount spent: $0

On the Today show they had a segment on how to make decorative cupcakes. My sister called me and told me to watch it and here are our home-made flower cupcakes.

Supplies: white cake mix, white icing, food color, sprinkles, jelly beans

We chose to mix neon food coloring with the icing in order to stick with the color theme and we used sweet tart jelly beans (only available at Easter) for the same reason. The sprinkles were half price after Easter and we also had some on hand. We threw in some Blue Bell Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream and it made for an inexpensive birthday treat. For drinks we served tea and lemonade which we had!

Amount spent: $17

Chris is so talented - have I mentioned that before???? Anyway, he made lovely balloon flowers for the walls which we hung with painters tape and made a balloon bouquet for the bar. The stems for the flowers were made by using green crepe paper - too cute!

Amount spent: $5

Here is a look at the decorated table - it's all about pulling it together. My mom found the paper goods at the dollar tree (super cheap!!), I borrowed the three level stand from my sister, used leftover shredded paper from Easter to put under the individual cake platters which I already had, and bought the table cloth after Easter for 50 cents. The splurge was the fresh bouquet of flowers. Chris could not stand to have a flower party without some fresh flowers. Also, you will notice Kate's picture. I like to have a picture of her with the birthday theme. Portrait Innovations is a new photography studio here. My friend Christy has talked about how inexpensive, but great quality of pictures they provide. I echo her remarks!! It was a wonderful experience and I got tons of pictures for really really cheap! This picture does not quite do the end product justice, but it's too late to get more!!

Amount spent: $21 (not including the picture - also, $12 was fresh flowers)

It's always fun to leave a party with a favor. We bought flowers, potting soil and small cups to create a fun, party themed favor to take home.

Amount spent: $8

Total amount spent: $51 for a super cute, fun second birthday!

If you have a fun party idea, leave a link in your comment so everyone can take a peak!

Sweet Baby....Toddler

2009-04-26T20:25:00.006-05:00

My sweet Kate, how you have changed my life. I always knew I wanted to be a mommy, but never knew what it really meant and how much I would love YOU!
From day ONE you melted my heart and showed me the purpose for my life - to love you! Those first few weeks were tough with Daddy taking finals and studying for boards, but we made it.
I could never hold you enough and loved to let you sleep on me. You are so beautiful! We had some scary times together during your first few months of life. I'll never forget when I thought I was losing you during a seizure you had. After my heart started beating again, I never looked at you the same!

You loved your food early on and have always had an independent streak! If you could have expressed words, I'm sure "I do it" would have been said here!
Daddy and Mommy dedicated you to Jesus when you were six months old. We love you, but God loves you more - cannot even fathom how that is possible. Our prayer is that one day you will understand His love and come to know Him.
How time flies! Here you are on your first birthday. You loved playing outside and I loved your chubby little cheeks. I thought you were such a big girl, but little did I know what would happen over the next year!For your first birthday we had a pink poodle theme. You love Parker and Bentley (your boys). I wanted to cry when you turned one, but I was so excited to see you blossom.Forget the baby food, you LOVE table food! You have always been a good eater, here you are enjoying blueberries at 18 months. You have brought so much joy and happiness to our lives!Just like Daddy! You love to play the piano and look at that TIE! You have always been mommy's little helper - you love to help with laundry, cook and clean. You have such a sweet spirit!How are you TWO? Time has flown and I cannot believe my sweet baby has turned into a toddler. When you were a very small baby I made up a song that went like this, "sweet baby, sweet baby, momma loves her baby". A few days ago I caught you singing that song to your baby while you were rocking her - it almost brought a tear to my eye. How I love you, Kate. God has blessed me beyond what I deserve. You are growing into a beautiful little girl both inside and out. You are my little adventuror, test the limit, never give up sweet girl, who has endless compassion for others, loves to LOVE, and has the friendliest personality! Your vocabulary is way out and some of the things that you say amaze me - no idea where you come up with it! You have started a journey with mommy and daddy that has not been easy and is not going to get easier any time soon! Thanks for showing us what is important and not letting life get in the way!

"Cooperated"

2009-04-23T21:34:00.002-05:00

Today Kate had her two year pictures - she did wonderful and they turned out great. I have to share a little story with you. Sometimes we have issues with getting in the car seat. Things like "I do it" and "Too tight" are frequent phrases. Over the past couple of months, I have bribed Kate (hate to admit it, but it's the truth I guess) to get in her carseat with a treat - an m&m, a smarty or something like that. I know, call me a bad mother, but sometimes it's about survival!! Anyway, I have frequently asked Kate to please cooperate. Today Kate got into her carseat beautifully without a fuss. Chris and I got into our seat and our little princess calmly said, "I cooperated". I was speechless and laughed out loud and Chris said, "first five syllable word." I had her say it for the camera when we got home - enjoy!

Blue Bell Creamery

2009-04-22T15:16:00.003-05:00

The last two years of MOPS I have been the social coordinator for playdates and MOPS night outs (time away from the kiddos). We have done lots of fun things and today we went on a tour at the Blue Bell Creamery. This is a very inexpensive fun thing to do with your kids. The tour didn't last too long and the kids enjoyed watching the ice cream being made - it was pretty cool. At the end of the tour you get to taste the ice cream - a very generous portion. It is fun for the whole family!
Kate with two of her favorite friends. Avery and Chloe are more than a year older than her, but Kate has always thought she was as big as them. Christy and Cheyenne have been the best SAHM to share the past few years with. The reason leaving our little place is going to be SOOOO hard!!

Yummy, cotton candy ice cream! Tastes delicious!

My two cuties that I love so much!

He never said it would be easy....

2009-04-21T19:22:00.003-05:00

Chris and I were gone all weekend to Little Rock looking for housing, while Kate stayed with my parents and got lots of spoiling. We drove back into town this morning and rearranged our front room to hopefully make it appear larger - seems to be another complaint of lookers. All in all everything was successful, but God never said it would be easy and I'm feeling that in our current situation!

Chris is in his third week off and it feels like all we've done is frantically try to sell our house and look for another. We have had lots of fun and managed to do some fun things with Kate, but it is so hard to see the time flying by, but in the same breath I am so excited about what is to come.

While at Little Rock we looked at some rentals (I'm sorry, but we cannot afford anything that is remotely worth living in). Maybe I'm too picky, but rates are way toooooo expensive!! An apartment is really not an option for us due to having the dogs. Picture this now - Me with three leashes (yes, three because I would have to put Kate on a kid leash so she didn't run off - I despise those things) wearing a baby bjorn walking the dogs at least three times a day - funny visual isn't. In saying all of this we have decided to buy again. We are excited and are praying for our house to sell. We found a house we like, so hopefully God will hold onto it for us!

While we were out of town we had an open house. We got great feedback from those who visited. The two complaints were no whirlpool tub in the master bath and the front bedrooms looked small - they are by the way. : ) Our realtor recommended we get rid of some of Kate's toys in the playroom, but Chris and I took it a step further. We decided to transform the room into a guest room using a fake bed - that's right, we blew up an air matress, used the headboard from Kate's recalled crib and put packed boxes in place of box springs - genious I know. You cannot even tell - absolutely amazing!! We moved a piece of Kate's furniture into the room and moved her toys to her bedroom and removed the rocking chair out of her room. Amazing difference. The realtor came back to take pictures tonight and her mouth dropped. She said she had never seen such a difference in a room.

Life is good and God is truly teaching us to fully rely on Him. Things are working out and will continue to do so. Chris got a call from the current Chief Resident and they are totally willing to work with him so he can be around for our second precious baby's birth. So wonderful that this situation is working out! Little Rock is totally going to be doable - nice size town, people are super friendly (caught me off guard a bit), and with my GPS I think I might be able to get around - eventually!!

10ish weeks left....but who's counting

2009-04-16T20:05:00.007-05:00

April 16, 2009 - 29 weeks pregnant!!

Today I went to the doctor (yes, I did remember to go!!) and I have officially gained 25 pounds. I hate gaining weight, but I am so proud of myself because today I weigh the same amount I weighed when I got pregnant with Kate. I never like to brag on myself, but it feels really good to be 29 weeks pregnant and weigh the same as I did at the beginning of my first pregnancy.

Everything was good - passed my gestational test with flying colors and my blood count came back fine. I was a little nervous about this because of not taking prenatals like I should - they still make me vomit when I take them, so I figured it was better to keep food down. Chris would still like me to try again for my own health - we'll see : )

The much anticipated ultrasound is scheduled three weeks from Monday - cross your fingers that this little one has his/her legs uncrossed!! Who knows, we might just decided to have a surprise - nothing else seems to be real planned right now so why should this?????

Probably 9-10 weeks until I deliver this baby - it will be here fast!!

Hectic Times.....The Story Continues

2009-04-15T19:48:00.004-05:00

So, times at the Robertson's are just pure crazy. Our amazing house is still on the market and no one has looked at it in two weeks - what???? What is there not to love about my house - that's right the open field behind it that might just become a Kum and Go. There will be an open house this weekend, so hopefully that will get some action again - it is in God's hands and we know it will sell soon (just hard to be patient sometimes!!!)

Chris and I have been discussing the pros and cons of buying versus renting - totally confused here. It is so difficult to go from owning your own home to renting, but we also clearly see some of the advantages. In saying all of that, we have totally been scammed more than once while looking for rentals. We only actually fell for a scammer once, but thankfully God protected us and Chris noticed the same house was for sell on a website - we called about it and sure enough this had happened before to people - what is up with our world, people???? I'm just saying watch out for Craigslist!! We have appointments set up to look at a few rentals and have a realtor that is going to show us some properties for sell this weekend, so pray that something will come from our quick trip (did I mention I have an open lot behind my house that people are fearing might be a gas station one day??). The housing situation is just a little grim and we are trying to TRUST!!

I told Chris I had a doctor's appointment tomorrow and his comment was for what - I grinned and said, um I'm pregnant. That's right we do not really have time to have a baby and all day I have been telling Chris to remind me that I have an appointment tomorrow - I seriously think I might forget - he! he! We are so excited about our bundle of joy and I would never want anyone to think otherwise, but the timing is a little/or maybe a lot hairy!!

6:00 pm on Wednesday night the cute little family is making their way to the car when all of a sudden, two year old on a mission to do it myself and no one, I mean no one can help me comes out. Let me set the stage - MOPS was this morning from 9-11, we "rested" for an hour or so and never drifted off, went to the playground, had dinner - okay, you get the point total exhaustion!! It is still so frustrating to feel like you are totally out of control. Chris almost had her in the carseat despite her screaming and kicking and boom - he pinches her with the seatbelt - great!! So, my lovely two year old was in bed asleep by 7:00 and Chris and I totally skipped out on our responsibilities at church.

If you are still with me, I'll leave on a positive note (I'm really not feeling negative, just wanted to blog about our life right now - memories right?). Chris is home and Kate is loving every minute of it - what can be better than spending time with the two people I love most - NOTHING!!

Easter, Easter and more Easter

2009-04-13T19:50:00.005-05:00

Easter this year was truly a blessing and blast. We have been reading the Easter story to Kate before bed for a few weeks now and it is fun to see her learning things - I know she doesn't even comprehend the Easter story, but she can say "Jesus is Alive" - good start.

Easter started last Wednesday with a fun egg hunt with friends from church. I am so blessed to have such great friends - I do not know what I am going to do without them - tears, tears and more tears!!

And we're off.... (Kate's first official egg hunt)

Yes, I found a blue one!

The whole gang!

I thought this was precious. On Saturday morning we
went to an egg hunt at the football field. Kate listened
to the Easter story before the big race!

Look at all the eggs!

Next we went to lunch at McAlister's Deli - love the cheapness of the kids meal and Kate actually eats it!! While eating lunch we decided to go to Egg hunt #2 on Saturday. It started at noon and was at a church close to our house, so we had plenty of time. This hunt had 50,000 plus eggs - it was amazing and Kate had a blast. They had inflatables, free concession, and nice restrooms (yeah!). You didn't even have to register - I always hate that at different churches - I promise I attend a church and am a Christian!! - please do not come visit me : )

Oops, an egg popped open and it had candy in it - didn't know that would happen. Kind of freaked little Kate out for a minute, but she got back into the race pretty fast!

I just don't know if I can fit anymore in my bag????

Chris set up an egg hunt in our backyard - so much fun to watch her amazement. She absolutely loved the fun - until she saw a bug! We hid her Easter basket in the house and had her find it along with the Easter basket from Grammy and Pops. She loved them both, but especially liked the baby bottles from Grammy and Pops and the sucker. She fed her stuffed bunny all afternoon and the next day! Modeling my new shades while sucking on my sucker - don't I look super cute?

It's a princess coloring book!

Look at all my new stuff - I'm not spoiled at all!!

This was the end to a fun Saturday before Easter. Unfortunately this was about 5 minutes before I woke our precious little princess up from her nap to go to Coleman's birthday party. 45 minutes later we called it a no go - she does not like being woke up from her nap! - who can blame her?

Easter morning. It was rainy and yucky here, but still a wonderful day.

We went to Granny and Papa's (Chris's parents) after church and once again Kate scored! She got an Abby dress up doll and lots of other good stuff!

Chris is such a good Daddy and Uncle to his nieces and one little nephew. He's helping fix Abby's hair and get her all dressed up!

Hope you all had a wonderful Easter and celebrated our risen SAVIOUR!!

Ava turns "2"

2009-04-09T19:18:00.004-05:00

Last weekend the Robertson family headed south for Ava's birthday. My neice is three weeks older than Kate which has been so much fun over the past two years. They really are each other's best friends. I cannot believe we're moving Kate nearly six hours away from Ava, but I know they will still see each other lots and always be the best of friends.

Ava had an Abby birthday party - super cute. My sister ordered all of her paper goods, party supplies and favors online at party galaxy for 50% off - what a steal! She made her own cupcakes and provided grape punch for the kids. She also got a little too crafty for herself and made Ava a tu-tu and bought iron on paper to make t-shirts for the girls and her and Shawn- lovely once again!! I thought the party was cute, inexpensive and a hit! Here are a few pictures.

Oh yes, while we were decorating and getting ready for the party. The daddy's took the girls to the Tiger Safari - kind of like a zoo, but more designed as a sanctuary for unwanted or abused animals. The girls loved it.

Vacation Day 1 - Incredible Pizza

2009-04-08T21:11:00.005-05:00

Chris and I would love to go on a lovely vacation before residency begins by ourselves and would love to take Kate somewhere, too, but there is this girl named Sara who is pregnant and just doesn't really want to experience vacation pregnant and with a two year old. We decided to do small trips close to home. I am going to be blogging on our destinations and how much $$ we spent - hope you enjoy!

Our first stop was Tuesday at Incredible Pizza. We have been here before, but not on a weekday - so much better. The buffet is a better price and the crowd was MUCH smaller! Kate had a blast and was still talking about playing games tonight on the phone with PaPa. We spent $22 for lunch (I like their buffet) and lots of games!

It's true...

2009-04-06T20:01:00.007-05:00

That I have not blogged in almost a week and I am extremely behind on reading - lots to catch up on.
That the one I love is officially home and finished with rotations until reporting for residency on June 17th.

That my belly is getting ever so big and I still do not know for sure the sex of my baby - maybe we are in for a surprise????? - should insert a prego belly picture here, but do not seem to have any!! Need to do something about that I guess.
That it snowed on March 28th and Kate loved it. We drove around on Sunday looking for snowmen while a couple looked at our house - she became obsessed with snowmen so we made one out of cottonballs and it is still hanging on the refrigerator!
That Kate loves her daddy so much that after working um 7, 12 hour shifts in a row (he was extremely exhausted) she insisted on climbing in bed with him.
That Kate is going to make an AWESOME big sister! Here she is helping feed Elliana her bottle - unfortunately this was the day before Kate got extremely sick and poor baby Elliana caught the bug, too.
That we are the MOST (I mean LEAST) photogenic family around!!!! BUT I love this guy named Chris and this girl named Kate!

Catch Up on Kate

2009-03-31T20:20:00.015-05:00

Okay, for some reason the formatting on this post is a little messed up - I've been messing with it way tooooo long - just bare with it while reading - sorry!

Oh sweet Kate how I love you...... BUT, as you approach 2 there are a few things I could do without

The phrase, "I do it"
"No, Momma" - why are you telling me no - I'm the MOMMA!
Refusal to wear a diaper at times, put on clothes, um anything that is not your idea. Like in this picture when you wore your pink poodle pajamas to church. I prayed for a dress that would look okay - seriously and I found this hanging in your closet from last summer and it worked!!

As you approach the BIG 2 there are lots of things I absolutely love about you and can never get enough of.....

Your helpful attitude

Here you are helping daddy weed the garden.

Mommy organized your play room and you thought you would
help by putting everything in the closet.

Your desire to be a "big girl" - although at times this could easily get placed in the other category.
Your spirit that is easily excited. Watching your eyes light up at Sesame Street Live is a memory I'll have in my oldest days.
Your love for the small things in life - here you are enjoying your first ice cream cone on St. Patrick's Day - yes we are that family (the ones who dressed in green!)

Your care and concern for others. You always want to make sure Dorothy is okay (our widowed neighbor). You are sure going to miss Dorothy!

Your brave personality to try new things. You loved fishing with Paw Paw over spring break in the pond. You even touched a fish - you were very unsure at first.

That one day you will follow Jesus (mommy prays for this). One day while mommy was doing dishes you put your baby in the booster seat, brought her a snack and climbed up on the bench at the table and said prayers - my heart melted.
The way you love. You are so sweet to Mr. Bear (your attachment since 4 months) and all your baby dolls. You keep them changed and well fed - what a great mommy you will be.
Your creativeness. Nothing gets past you - not even water colors. You must figure it all out!
That you think mommy is AWESOME! I know this will not last long, but right now you think mommy can do anything. You love to dress up in my shoes, go through my panty and sock drawer (one Sunday morning you insisted I wear some sexy panties - I declined much to your disappointment).
What I love most about you as you approach 2 is YOU!

Blessings!

2009-03-29T21:00:00.003-05:00

I have the best of intentions of posting some pictures, but just do not want to devote the time to blogger uploading images etc., but what has really been on my mind today is the blessings in my life.

Kate has been sick this week and it has been a ROUGH week! Last weekend my parents were visiting and we noticed some red spots in her diaper area. Chris worked 7-7 on Saturday - Monday, so he didn't see Kate much and I wanted to know his opinion. He was off on Tuesday and Wednesday and the rash did not look good Wednesday morning and she had a cold that was not going away. Future pediatrician Robertson said we should take her in. We left the dr. office on Wednesday with an antibiotic in hand (they think she had strep on her bottom - yes, you can get it on your skin). We have a nebulizer from the last time she was sick - she wheezes when she gets sick, so we started doing breathing treatments. Okay, so Wednesday night she had a slight fever, Thursday she vomitted after coughing so much and was up at 10:15 that night SICK!! I took her on Friday morning - she had a high fever and fell asleep in the dr. office - not like Kate AT ALL. The dr. (who is not a do everything type) had a blood count done, a flu test done and an x-ray - she really thought Kate had the flu - she didn't thank goodness. Thankfully everything was okay and the dr. felt like she had an awful virus. Friday she slept most of the day and yesterday was a nightmare, but we survived. She is doing much better today - thankfully! Yes, Chris has been working 7-7 through all of this, it couldn't happen when I had a little help : ) - life I know!!

In saying all of that today while eating breakfast, I realized how blessed I was to have a child who is healthy. I realized how stressful it is to have a sick child, but then I thought about the millions of mothers and fathers dealing with terminal illness of their children - I CANNOT IMAGINE. I have so much to be thankful for. The stress placed on those individuals must be more than I've ever felt.

I pray each night for God to protect Kate and keep her healthy, but how quickly it could all be taken away. I am so thankful for the blessing of health!

There are so many more blessings in my life (one of whom needs some attention - hubby, so I'm going to say goodnight!). Maybe Sundays will be devoted to blessings for a few weeks - I need to be reminded myself!

We did it...

2009-03-25T19:33:00.002-05:00

It is official, our house is on the market!! What a hard job it was getting it all ready, but when I sat down and looked around at the house - this came to mind, "Finally, the clutter free house I've always dreamed of, oh wait, there are about 20 boxes in the garage!!" I told Chris we need to take pictures because it will never look this way again.

She counts...

2009-03-24T21:32:00.004-05:00

Thought I would share a cute video of Kate today. I have lots of pics to catch up on so be looking for a fun post soon!

CRAZINESS....

2009-03-24T10:44:00.005-05:00

I never want to wish my life away or for that matter this stage, but I am struggling to completely find peace in total chaos. We have one free weekend between now and the end of May and hopefully that weekend we are in Little Rock looking for a place to live. I just feel this knot of confusion, excitement and anxiousness. Feel free to quit reading at any point, but this blog is an outlet for me sometimes, so I'm going to vent a little below.

GUILT - I feel so much guilt over dragging Kate through moving, a new baby, etc..... My parents were here this weekend and she cried when they left - what were we thinking choosing to move 5 hours away!!!! (Jeremiah 29:11 comes to mind).
NEW BABY - Chris and I prayed and I had surgery in order to have a second baby, but now it seems so difficult. I cannot imagine going through life without my Jesus to guide me and I know he allowed us to get pregnant with this little miracle. I am trying to rest in the fact that He has a perfect plan and obviously Chris and I can rest in that. The million dollar question still remains..... Where will I deliver??? Who knows, Chris reports the 17th of June. I do not want him to miss any of his team building events, etc. - hard decisions here!!
SELLING HOUSE - So there have been like a ton of houses go up for sale in our neighborhood over the past few weeks. Hopefully ours will sale fast and we can get things rolling. It is going on the market tomorrow - yeah!!! Getting a house show ready with a two year old is not an easy task!!
HOLDING IT ALL TOGETHER - I have this amazing ability to maintain my composure (usually) around family and friends and lose it behind closed doors. These next few months are going to be so hard on me and I could use prayer. Chris and I have planted ourselves in our community - church, lifelong friends, etc. This was not just a place for us to go to medical school - it has been our home! The decision to move weighed heavy on our hearts because of the support we have here, but just like God called Abraham to not be afraid (Genesis 26:24) God calls us to do the same! God has such big plans for our family and Chris has been granted an amazing opportunity at one of the leading children's hospitals. I'm going to brag a moment - they have only taken one osteopathic student each year (that is my husband, folks - what an honor!!) I support my husband no matter what and always will - I to feel like this move is what God has in store for us, but it does not make it easy!! Strange enough I feel a peace about moving (most of the time) it is just all the in between things that easily take me off track.
KATE - Oh my precious angel. I love her so much and she is starting to realize things are going on. We have been packing up the extra clutter, so boxes are out and about. My belly is growing and it is starting to get in her way. I know she will be 100% fine, but it is difficult on me to think of her leaving friends and the only things she has ever known. This is honestly the hardest part for me.
I'll leave my lengthy post that brought tears to my eyes and probably bored you to tears with this.

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart." Jeremiah 29: 11-13

Match Day Remembered

2009-03-20T21:59:00.003-05:00

A blogger friend of mine recommended that we record what happened on Match Day, so I thought I would do a post on our match day experience and the events that lead up to it.

It really began months ago as Chris began the interview process and evaluating pros and cons of programs. We never dreamed of moving, but after interviews and truly putting our life in our current town aside (we're very happy!!), we knew a move was more than likely in store.

Next came the ranking process. Chris canceled all but four of his interviews, so he ranked programs 1-4. One was his first choice, etc... We set a deadline for ourselves so the madness of who to rank where could end. On that Sunday afternoon we prayed (and had been praying lots before then) and Chris followed what God had laid on his heart. It truly was a freeing experience when Chris submitted his rank order.

Then the waiting...... and waiting...... and waiting..... and waiting - okay you get the idea. This was probably the worst part of the entire process.

Jump to yesterday morning - March 19, 2009. Chris woke up sick - yeah what a way to spend a life changing day. I woke up from a restless sleep of night due to pregnancy and anxiousness, but kept myself busy cleaning and tending to Kate. Kate was happy as ever - very independent yesterday.

11:00 am - Chris gets out of bed and begins checking his email frequently (I had been already). The results were due out at 12:00 pm, but they might be early : )

12:00 pm - I am the one looking, Chris is too anxious and nervous, but is looking over my shoulder. Where did I match? The subject on the email read - oh no, it's really here. The past four years of hard work and sacrifices has paid off - Chris is really going to be a doctor!

UAMS
ARKANSAS CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL
LITTLE ROCK, AR

It looked something like this. I honestly do not remember for certain, my heart was pounding and I misread what was on top and was totally confused and then made my way down to the bottom and saw our destination.

We were instantly excited and man the feeling that comes over you when you know your assignment for the next three years. It was truly a crazy afternoon - what do we do now, are we really moving away from family, friends, etc.... I cannot believe we are actually going to do this - oh what floods your mind, but admist all of this was an unsurmountable amount of excitement and joy.

To see your husband beginning to fulfill his lifelong dream is truly breathtaking. I'm sure there will be lots of tears shed at graduation - I am so proud of him and know our journey to Little Rock is going to be amazing!

MATCH!!

2009-03-19T14:28:00.002-05:00

We have been anxiously waiting for this day and here it is - one minute everything is unknown and the next you have your assignment for residency!!

Drum roll, please....

Chris and I are heading to Little Rock, AR. We are very excited and honestly this is where we thought we probably would be heading. Chris loved his rotation in Little Rock and they have lots of spousal support (pretty rare, I think). We are excited to see what God has in store for our family as we head to Arkansas!!

Thanks for all the prayers and support!

Match Day #1

2009-03-16T20:38:00.002-05:00

So today Chris found out that he officially has a job next year - yes we matched. We will not find out where until Thursday - the wait seems long, but in reality we both have a peace about our destination, so we're fine. I am thankful that we did not have to scramble - that would have been some STRESS!!

To be continued...

Another one bites the dust...

2009-03-15T20:13:00.002-05:00

Today I was reminded of how EMBARRASSING it is to fall headfirst in public. Yes, I was the one on the floor while everyone was staring. I was highly irritated and humiliated, but gracefully got up and moved on. A nice older gentleman asked me if I was okay (he could obviously tell I was pregnant) and I told him yes and thank you. I then proceded to find a worker to let them know someone had spilt there drink and I had just fallen in it - she didn't seem to get in a big hurry about it. The old guy told me someone needed to clean up that mess - I grinned and said YES!!

I have a small bruise on my knee and my arm was sore for a while - I've done this before in my own house and ended up with a broken elbow - ouch, so all in all I'm fine. Of course Chris was worried about the baby - I assured him I was fine, just overly embarrassed!!

Thanks for all the birthday wishes!

Best Birthday Dinner Ever....

2009-03-14T20:37:00.000-05:00

So today I turned a young 27! It really seems impossible that I'm closer to 30 than 20, but here I am happy as ever and loving my life!!

Chris worked the night shift and made it home about 6 this morning, so he was in bed until about 1 this afternoon. Kate and I hung out and cuddled a lot - great birthday morning! After Kate's nap we decided to make a quick trip to the big T Town so I could get some baby shower gifts and to eat dinner. Chris got me a balloon and a sweet card (saving $$$ here), of course Kate loved the balloon and insisted it travel with us. When we got to On The Border we made her leave it in the car, but she just was not having it, so in the end it came along.

I told Chris the one stipulation to going out on my birthday was to not inform the waitor/waitress. He agreed. We had finished our meal and asked for the ticket and boom - the waitor said "Is it her birthday?" (referring to Kate). I grinned and said, "No, actually it's mine." He told me I could pick a dessert out and it would be free - okay, I can handle the brownie fudge with ice cream. I was terrified that a singing ensemble might appear, but he told me the balloon was enough and he wouldn't put me through that.

The perfect birthday dinner:

a ticket under $20
free dessert
no embarrassing singing and dancing

Thanks Kate for insisting on the balloon!

Confessions of a once upon a time fluffy girl...

2009-03-13T19:56:00.009-05:00

I have been thinking about this post and decided to indulge some humor for all tonight. Chris is working nights, I have been gone since Wednesday and am exhausted!!!, I attempted to upload pictures to my computer and the camera was out of batteries - so that was a no go - sorry still no pics of Sesame Street Live (the planned post), so I decided some humor was in store. Hope you find this fun! Not intended to be offensive in anyway, but would love to inspire - always my goal with my posts.

Those of you who have followed my blog over the last year or so may have seen my post on my weight struggles. You can read that post here. Being pregnant a second time around has brought lots of emotion with gaining weight and thought this post would lighten my heart!!

Confessions of a once upon a time fluffy girl....

I hate gaining weight for any reason, including pregnancy.
One of my biggest fears is that one day I will gain all my weight back.
People from high school do not recognize me. I was home this week for a funeral and saw lots of classmates that I had not seen in years. I am pregnant and will probably never reach the amount I weighed when they saw me last - I got lots of strange looks!
I know how many points are in lots of foods - weight watchers was my initial weight loss strategy and last summer I developed my own. Read about it here.
One of my biggest dreams for Kate is that she never look at herself and feel she is overweight. I pray she never struggles with the "weight" battle!
My family freaks out when I talk about getting healthy. This past summer I was not trying to lose weight, but Chris and I were struggling with fertility for the second time around and I needed something to focus on. I decided that I would get healthier and started exercising and eating better. I have never felt as good as I did this summer. I have IBS pretty bad and it was under control (TMI, I know). I felt great and was loving my new outlook on health!!
I cannot wait to have my baby and get back into my "skinny" clothes. This is where nursing is not fun - my boobs are huge!!! I do enjoy that time with my little one though and it is totally worth it.
I will never feel thin inside (pity party here!).
I used to date overweight guys (well, like two in high school for what two weeks) and always crushed on heavier guys and guess what I married the skinniest guy I ever did meet!! He weighed like 130 on a heavy day when we met - isn't God funny!!
I still eat brownies - I LOVE THEM!!!
I am obsessed with Cappacinno Chunky Chocolate Frozen Yogurt from Braums (I think I'll have some when I'm finished).
Fat free does not = eat all you want
I can do without french fries, soda, and greasy fattening food (I do enjoy on occasion, especially while I'm pregnant) - there are some good things about being pregnant, right?!?
I stare at people when eating out - not if you are with me, don't worry!! I just like to watch people's eating habits - very interesting.
I wish my loved ones who struggle with their weight would make a change. I have been there and (no I was not near as overweight as some, but I was on a path of destruction) know how difficult it is - the payoff is totally worth every minute and sacrifice!
I cry when watching Biggest Loser sometimes and find that show so encouraging!
I could probably type all night long, but the post is getting a little lengthy and some of you are gone by now!!
BIGGEST CONFESSION: I wish I was not obsessed with my weight!!! I do not talk about it in front of Kate at all - never use the F word (fat) and always tell her how beautiful she is and that God loves her for her heart not her appearance!!
I weighed 187 at my highest, 166 when I got pregnant with Kate, 142 when I got pregnant with baby #2 (who refuses to reveal). One last chance to read my entire weightloss story check it out here.

In case you didn't check out my previous post on weightloss here are pictures of me before and after.

This is me all dressed up for senior prom. This was the best picture I could find of that stage of my life.

I am the one in the gray tank top. That is my beautiful sister with me. This was sometime over the summer. I do not have lots of pics of myself - funny how things change when you have a baby!! I need to take a current pic of myself with my new belly that has arrived over the last few weeks. I really didn't get very big until just recently - vomitting all the time does that to you (I would have rather gained weight and a belly than vomit - I'm not that vain)!!

In and out this week

2009-03-10T22:37:00.002-05:00

I had great intentions of posting Sesame Street Live pictures, but instead I have spent the last hour and a half browsing ebay for a new phone - my texting button broke and may only survive a few more days. This is how I entertain myself while Chris is working nights - I hate nights!!!! I didn't find anything that I couldn't live without - I hate spending money on a silly phone!!!

I will be in and out the remainder of the week. On a serious note, a close family friend growing up passed away yesterday from a massive heart attack. Kate and I are traveling home tomorrow for the funeral and will be there for the remainder of the week probably. Keep the Smith family in your prayers. He was 53 and left behind a son and daughter both in their early 20's. I cannot imagine losing one of my parents!

Bedtime prayers

2009-03-09T20:33:00.002-05:00

"Kate, what do you want to pray for tonight?" cats, the boys, Ava, Amy, Shawn - safety, everybody that poo poos, the string (that she found on the floor).....

Had to share this bedtime prayer. You never know what Kate wants to thank Jesus for.

Lovin' Wal-Mart

2009-03-08T20:46:00.003-05:00

Okay, I've decided I need to get out more often by myself - did I say by myself? Today I needed to run to Wal-Mart to pick up a few things and I went ALL ALONE - wow the feeling. I found myself browsing down the Easter aisle looking at everything, I glanced at the maternity section and found two pair of shorts for $9 - what a deal, strolled through the little girl section and picked up a few things for Kate (no, she didn't need them, BUT...) - cheap, doesn't that make it better!! I finally started my grocery shopping probably an hour after my journey began. I have Wal-Mart basically memorized, so that didn't take long. I got home and was giddy - I think Chris thinks I'm crazy.

Motherhood is great, but sometimes you forget what it's like to be alone, have not a single person requesting anything and be able to just browse!

FYI - Sesame Street Live was awesome. Kate was totally mesmerized and loved every minute of it. I'll post pictures tomorrow hopefully!

Hittin' the road

2009-03-06T14:28:00.001-06:00

Chris, Kate and I are going on a quick trip to see the family this evening and tomorrow. I am super excited because we are taking Kate and Ava to see Sesame Street Live - yeah! I know they are going to love it! Hope you all have a wonderful weekend!