Miss Kohen is sawing some serious logs right now. We had a super busy morning. We had her follow up pedi appt this morning and I'm happy to report that she is gaining like a champ. Kohen picked up 2.5 ounces since yesterday. She is now up to 7.13!! So, the pedi was happy with the weight gain and we do not have to go back to the pedi until she is 2 weeks old.
After the pedi we quickly stopped by Ken's office. He goes back to work on Monday:-( and since we were in the area we stopped by to show Kohen off. Everyone loved her. It was a quick visit because we had to head off to her newborn photo shoot.
Let me tell you, Kohen got the royal treatment from Terri during our newborn photo shoot. We were there for almost an hour and a half and we are probably going to go broke buying pics!! Terri is a fantastic photographer and I can not wait to see all of the pics. I'm telling you, if you are in the area and need a photographer, check Terri Mason out!! She is awesome and you will not be disappointed!!! Thanks for a super session Terri!! I'm already looking forward to coming back for more pics!!!
After a quick stop to pick up a gift card and a drive through lunch we are finally home and Kohen is resting up from her eventful morning and afternoon. Maybe I'll go nap with her!!!
Today we had Kohen's 1st pedi appt and all went well. Actually, I was impressed that Ken and I got all 3 kids dressed, out the door, and to the pedi at 10:00. Miss Kohen is doing great. She was born 8lb, down to 7.6lbs at discharge, and up to 7.11lbs today. I can't seem to locate Kohen's stat sheet from the pedi, but she is in the 75% for height and weight. I can't remember the rest of the details. Since she is not back up to birth weight yet so the Pedi wants to see us again for a weight check tomorrow before the weekend. We have to be back at the Pedi at 9:30 tomorrow morning. Kaden and Kensley both had follow up pedi appts today as well and both got clean bills of health. Yes, we are finally ear infection free and we are so hoping they stay that way.
So, if you are wondering how I'm getting the chance to blog is because...I've got help in the house right now. My Mom, sister, and Eric are here entertaining the kids. They are all going to head out to the lake here in a bit, while Kohen and I stay behind. Nanu and Papu offered to keep the kids for the night. So, since we have an early pedi appt and Kohen has her newborn photo session at 12 tomorrow, I gladly accepted the help. After the lake Ken will head back to keep Kohen and I company and it looks like we will have another busy day tomorrow.
Our Sleeping Beauty At 3 Days Old
Well, it was very interesting to say the least. As soon as the kids arrived they wanted to see Kohen and love and kiss her and then all craziness broke loose. Kaden insisted on playing his drums and then they dumped out all the musical instructments and played Kohen a lovely tune. Kohen will be the most over stimulated baby or the most desensitized baby. So, I guess only time will tell. Kohen did not seem to mind all of the craziness or all of the kisses and head rubbing. By the time Ken and I got the kids ready for bed we were wiped. We were joking last night and said we would have to start getting the kids ready for bed at 6:30 just to get them in bed by 8:30/9 p.m. Last night it was 10 p.m. before we got the kids in bed and asleep. The quite time was short lived. Kohen was up eating every 2-3 hours, which I totally expected. My milk came in full force during the night so I was happy for her waking up that often to eat. In the wee hours of the morning we were greet by our other 2 children. Kaden came strolling into our room and got in the bed with us at 2 a.m. and guess who was next??? Yep, Miss Kensley. She was not a happy camper. Every time that Kohen woke up so did she and she cried and cried for me to hold her. Finally, she gave it up and cuddled up next to me and went to bed only to get up around 7 something this morning. No sleeping in here. I got up and got her dressed and then got the rest of the bunch up and we had to head out the door for our pedi appt this morning at 10. Yep, all 3 kids had appts. I'll fill you in on that fun next posting!! Here are some pics of the crew at home:
Kohen In Her Bassinet
Big Brother and Big Sister Checking Her Out
Curious Big Sister
Kohen's Music Show
Playing Doctor On Baby Kohen
Papu With His Brown Eyed Girl
Classic Papu Shot....I have a pic of Papu with Kaden and Kensley asleep on his chest so I had to snap this one up yesterday
Proud Nanu&Papu
We got home around 1pm yesterday. My Dad met us at the house and he totally decorated our house inside and out in a sea of pink for welcoming Baby Kohen home. Of course, when I saw it all I was crying. Come to think of it, I think I cried on and off all day yesterday. The house was so quite when we arrived because my Mom still had the kids. It was nice, but weird. My parents brought the kids back home around 5:30 yesterday and picked up dinner for us all. After dinner, Kaden ran outside to play with Tyler and my parents made an escape while Kaden and Kensley were distracted. Neither one of the kids wanted to come back home. They love staying with Nanu and Papu!! Heck, they would live with Nanu and Papu if we would let them. However, I knew my parents needed their rest and we needed the chance to bond as a new family of 5. I'll fill you in on all of that on my next posting. Let's just say last night was very interesting!!! Here are some pics of us coming home and our arrival at home:
Getting Ready To Leave The Hospital
In The Car
Welcome Home Baby Girl
Today we are coming home and I'm so excited to get settled at home with all my babies. We will probably not get discharged until sometime after lunch. Right now Ken is out getting breakfast and I'm sitting her feeding my sweet baby girl. Gosh, I love her so much and it already feels like she has been apart of our lives FOREVER!! Oh gosh, it is already time for the hormones to start kicking in?? Why is David Cook making me cry? I really did not care for his, "This Is The Time Of My Life" song, but now it seems so fitting and it is making me cry. I think I might like it now because this really is the time of our lives and we have been so very blessed and I'm so very thankful!!! I'm even emotional thinking about leaving the hospital with a baby for the very last time. Are we sure this is last time we will ever do this again?? Okay, I've got to stop or I'll be crying all day:-) Once we are home and the camera is fully downloaded there will be pics galore!! More updates later.
Kohen has arrived and I'm so tired that I can not see straight!! Ken and I are on cloud 9 and are so in love with our new bundle of joy!! Gosh, having a baby never gets old!! Birth story and pics will follow. Here's some details to tie you over until I can get everything typed up. I did get my 2nd successful VBAC and it was super fast. Kohen is still in the nursery because my labor went so fast that I did not get in the 2 full rounds of antibiotics for the group b. They are just running labs, bathing her, and etc. Ken and my sister are over checking on her as I type. However, before she went to the nursery I already got to nurse her 3 times and she knew exactly what to do. It was so amazing. She came out wanting to nurse right away. It was pretty crazy. Will post pics of my little princess and etc later!!!
Here's the details
Kohen Lynn Thompson
8lbs
20 inches
born at 5:05 am on the 26th!!
Okay, these darn contractions got me out of bed. They are somewhat painful, but not like I'm just dying. It's the pressure that is making things uncomfortable. I've been up timing for over an hr now and they are coming 5-7 mins apart and lasting for like a little over a minute to 45 seconds. I just do not want to get all excited and run off to l&D to only be sent home. However, I do not want to arrive too late because I'm strep b positive. Maybe I should just call l&D???Hummm...what to do what to do. Maybe I'll try to go back to bed and see if they get me up again. I just wish my water would break so I would know it's the real deal KWIM??? This is just driving me nuts!!!
Am I wishful thinking or is there maybe hope that Kohen just might arrived before her due date? I've really come to hate the ticker on my blog. 3 days and counting till my due date and it just pisses me off every time I see it. I told Ken yesterday I was taking it off because I just get angry when I look at it. Okay, enough ranting, let's get down to the details here. Last night contractions started around 10:30 and I was up basically every hour until I got up at midnight and tried to get some relief by sitting upright in the recliner. That helped a little and finally around 2 am I went back to bed. I woke up this morning feeling a ton of pressure and it seems to be sticking around with lots of cramping. Still having on again/off again contractions, but not enough that I feel like I need to start timing them. So, since I'm having some symptoms today I'm a tiny tad hopeful that they are doing something and who knows....maybe this stubborn little girl will decide she wants to come out. I mean come on, as of last Tuesday I was 4cm and 80%...surely they are doing something!! Well, I'm off to get the last minute things done before the house showing at 11.
Today Ken and I packed up the kids along with a picnic lunch and headed to the Brushy Creek Sprinkler Park. It was super hot outside and the kids loved playing in the sprinklers with Daddy. I sat on the side lines like a beached whale, but still managed to have a good time watching the kids play. After our lunch and some more play time in the sprinklers we headed back to the house for nap time. I napped with Kensley until 4 p.m.!! I guess the sun wore us out and we needed the 3 hour nap. While Kensley and I napped, Ken and Kaden played outside on the slip-n-slide and took a dip in the pool. We then grilled hot dogs for dinner and just got finished eating huge ice cream sundaes!! So, all in all not a bad way to pass the day away. Well, Ken is off to give the kids a bath and I am about to go and do some more cleaning since we have a house showing tomorrow. Hope everyone's Memorial Day Holiday is off to a good start!!
Here's A Few Pics Of My Babies
Cheryl you are fired!!! Cheryl tired and tired to send me into labor yesterday and nothing!! She was so bummed since she had the day off. We walked and shopped and walked and shopped and I only had a few measly contractions. We had lunch at Chuy's and I ate a ton of salsa...the spicy one and NADA!! We went and got another pedicure hoping that might do the trick...Nope. My toes have never been so pampered in my entire life!! I got a really good foot and calf massage and had the massage chair on full blast... And Still Nothing!! So, after all of our attempts we came home and get this...Cheryl in an act of desperation even massaged my hands, feet, and legs looking for pressure points. It felt pretty good so I was not complaining. Cheryl wanted me to do jumping jacks next and we were cracking up because I could not even jump up. It was a pretty funny sight. After Cheryl went home I sat on that darn exercise ball and bounced until Ken got home. We met my parents and the kids for dinner and I had Mexican food for the 2nd time of the day. We made a quick trip to the grocery store and then called it a night. We were all pretty tired. So, it appears that Kohen is just wayyyyy too comfortable in there!! I woke up with some pretty good cramping at 4 this morning and my fingers are crossed that it is doing something since the cramping is still going on Let's just hope it brings on some consistent contractions or my water breaks. So, as of this morning...I'm still pregnant!!!
Well, here's my daily check in. Still no baby!! My Mom has the kids today so I'm waiting on my sister to come over. We are going to head to the outlet mall near my house and do some major walking and I plan to do some summer clothes shopping for the kids. We will then have a kid free lunch somewhere and heck I much just splurge and get my 2nd pedicure of the week!! Who knows!! My sister said her goal today was to send me into labor since she has the day off. Well, I'm not holding her to it, but we will see what happens!! Wish us luck!!! This evening I plan to meet up with my parents and the kids, and Ken is getting off of work early so we will have some super spicy Mexican food and do some more walking. So, TGIF and here's to having a baby sometime this weekend!!!
Here are some pics of my cutie pootie!! This is a skirt Courtney made and I love it. Kensley is just too cute. Yes, I'm tooting my own horn and bragging on my beauty because I'm pregnant and can get away with it right now.
Well, nothing new here. I'm still pregnant. Today the kids and I basically were out with my Mom and Sister all day. We had lunch together, shopped, and walked and walked and walked. I totally wore my Mom and Sister out. They were whining and complaining about walking so much, but of course, I had no sympathy:-) We also caught the new Indiana Jones Flick upon Kaden's request. Harrison Ford still has it. He was great in the movie and it was pretty good. Kensley fell asleep right after the previews and slept the entire time. The movie was probably a little too much for Kaden. I didn't realize it was pg-13 until the movie had already started and I started looking for the ticket stub after the 1st shooting scene to see the rating. Oh well, I guess I'll get a bad Mommy mark for that one. If I weren't pregnant and desperate to pass the time I probably would have not taken him to see it due to the language and some of the content, but I do not think he really picked up on it and of course he will not be damaged for life so I'm over feeling bad for letting him watch it now. Kaden loved the movie and wants a whip now and to go swinging from vine to vine in a jungle somewhere. So, I guess if that's all he picked up we are good:-) I guess my Mom felt bad for me because she insisted on talking both of the kids tonight. Gosh, our house is so quite!! Maybe rest is just what I need to go into labor. I called my Mom and Dad a few minutes ago and the kids were loving life and about to get a bath. Ken and I walked for over an hour earlier and then I insisted that we go to Sonic and get hot fudge sundaes. That hit the spot!!! So, now that I've had my ice cream fix I think I'm about to hit the hay!! My feet are killing me from all the walking today. So, tomorrow is a new day and I'm sure I will get to post again that I'm still pregnant:-)
I have been tagged by Mrs. Whimsy aka Natalie. Thanks Natalie for helping me pass the time away!!!
The Rules:
~Each player answers the questions about themselves.
~At the end of the post, the player tags other people and posts their name, then goes to their blogs and leaves them a comment, letting them know they've been tagged and asking them to read your blog.
~What was I doing 10 years ago?
Let's see...I'm far from a math wiz, but 10 years ago takes me back to 1998. Let's see I was in college and was about to turn 21. I had long blond hair(of course from a bottle from Toni and Guy),lived in a tanning booth, and had pretty rock hard abs. Did my fair share of clubbing on 6th St. and I guess my major decisions of the day were...do I sleep in, skip class, go out tonight, or should I save my money for rent, beer, or food??? Gosh, those days seems so long ago:-)
Five snacks I enjoy-
- Cheese. I love cheese!!!
- Anything chocolate
- peanut butter/chocolate chewy granola bars
- Chips and Salsa
- Ice Cream
Are the snacks supposed to be healthy???
Five Things On My to do list Today-
~ Have a baby
~ Have a baby
~ Have a baby
~ Have a baby
~ Did I mention have a baby?????
Things I would do if I were a billionaire-
~ I would make a huge donation to the local Children's Hospital and various local charities
~ Give nice size lumps of money to my family and friends
~ Build a totally pimped out custom home
~ Go on a huge shopping spree and not have buyers remorse
~ Stay grounded and remain thankful for all my blessing in life
Five Jobs that I have had -
~Receptionist
~Sports Photographer
~Teacher
~Client Relations Representative
~Client Relations Supervisor
**Now I have the most rewarding, but most challenging job of all, I'm now a SAHM**
Five of my bad habits-
1. Total internet junkie!!!
2. Snack food queen
3. Impulse shopper
4. I DVR General Hospital and can watch it for hours once the kids are asleep
5. I never say no to cake!!!
Five people I Want to Get to Know Better:
A nice way of saying “Tag. You’re it!” -
~Jana
~Carley
~Ronna
~Courtney
~Diana
6 Random things:
1. Love to water ski
2. Scrapbook addict
3. Love pedicures
4. Massages rock
5. Love shopping for the kids
6. Enjoy cooking when I do not have kiddos tugging at my heels
So, I'm back and in better spirits than I was in this morning since I got some of my questions answered that had been weighing on my mind. I woke up really b*%^%Y this morning, but doing much better now. So, I've progressed another cm . I'm now 4 cm and still at 80% effaced. The NP did an aggressive membrane sweep/stretch and said that my bag of water was really thin. I was so hoping it would break right then and there and so was she. I told her if my water breaks today or if I go into labor in the next day or so I would be back with some sweet gifts!! So, I'm hoping things will get moving, but not banking on anything. If nothing happens this week, then I will again get a sweep next week at my 40 appt and then if nothing by 41 weeks the NP said that my Dr would be willing to break my water and see if I can deliver on my own since I've already had one successful VBAC. So, that was music to my ears . I was worried that I would automatically have to have a repeat c/section at 41 weeks. So, as long as I do not stall out in labor then I should be able to avoid a c/section. I've been cramping since I got home and I hope the sweep is moving things along. If not, then I guess I will have my Dr appt to look forward to next week. Kohen is doing well. H/b was in the 130's and I'm up 36 lbs now.....holy sheep
@#%^&...beep.....@#%$...$%*&...beep...*&^ *& %$#@!...beep. That's to you Mr. Full Moon!! Deep breath, now the moon knows how I really feel!!! Yes, I've resorted to cursing the moon. I'm not crazy just very very pregnant!!! The only thing the full moon brought me was a few contractions, hunger, and insomnia!! I swear I was up every freaking hour last night. Finally at 3 am I got up because I swore there was a monster in my stomach. My stomach was growling so loud I had to finally get up to eat. I so wanted a bacon sandwich, but opted for some juice and cereal instead. Finally at 4:30 I crawled back into bed and then got up around 6:30 this morning to unload the dishwasher. Yep, I will be in a real good mood today. I have a Dr appt this afternoon and they better give me some good freaking news!! I swear I just might go off of the deep end when they say, " OMG, you made it to your 39 week appt." I might just blow!!! These on and off contractions better be doing something or I'm going to be pissed!! So, in a nut shell, watch out, be very afraid, and yes, stay away from this very disgruntled and very bitchy pregnant woman!! Off to have my coffee now!!
The kids have a few new favorite obsessions.
Kensley is obsessed with having dog ears aka pig tails or whatever else you call them. For the past 2 days she has insisted on wearing dog ears. This morning she acutally started crying when she woke up because they were still not in her hair from last night. So, I'm no where near as good as Papu is at parting hair for dog ears(he used to always do mine when I was little), but I gave it the good old girl scout try and I got them up. I guess it will take some practice or we will have to have Papu fix her hair if Mommy can not get the parting down:-) Here's my cutie pie with her new do!!
So, the question of the day is.....Is the full moon going to do anything for me labor wise or not?? I know I'm really grasping for straws, but it sure would be nice if my water broke today. So, just in case, I figured I would post my 38 week belly photos since I'm now nearing 39 weeks. Who knows, maybe these are the last belly photos of my pregnancy. Yes, I do look like I'm about to topple over. The theme song for my belly is....."How low can it go."
Today my friend Heidi is having her baby boy delivered via c-section. They had to be there early this morning and I'm betting she is about to soon be holding her newest bundle of joy. I am so very excited for her today. Today is going to be a very emotional day for her and her family. Good Luck Heidi!! You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. Can't wait to hear you newest addition has arrived!!!
Today we took the kids to see Speed Racer and let's just say I'm glad Kaden is not driving yet. I could see the need for speed running though his veins!! The movie was pretty long and Kensley was ready to go by the end, but was on such a sugar high from all the candy that she was dancing and could not sit still. So, all in all it was a pretty good movie and a good way to pass the time away.
Still no baby to report here. I'm feeling pretty off today, but I'm not reading into that. I actually think I might have a little big of a bug. I am coughing my head off, congested, and I'm really sore from all the contractions from yesterday. So, I'm resting, Kensley is napping, and Ken and Kaden are off running errands. I've had some contractions today, but nothing like yesterday. The kids have been super clingy to me today and even the dog, which I found a little weird. The crazy dog followed me into the bathroom and would not leave my side and that is so odd for Hendrix. I told Ken maybe he knows something and then I told myself, "Cheri you are driving your self nuts looking for signs." So, I just blew it off and I have zero baby arrival vibes today. I'm just tired of getting myself all pumped up that Kohen might arrive each and every day to only find myself disappointed when I get ready to turn into bed at night. She will come when she is ready I suppose. However, I do have a little hope for tomorrow since tomorrow is a full moon. My sister called to remind me and to not give up hope. So, maybe there will be some baby action to report tomorrow.
Speaking of tomorrow it sounds like we will have a somewhat of a busy day so that should help pass the time away until my OB appt on Tuesday. Kaden has his Kid's Day Out in the morning and he has pictures. So, I have to make sure he is looking GQ...properly matched, spike hair, and etc. Then Kensley and I will go visit Terri Mason to pick up our photos from our photo shoot a few weeks ago. Sometime tomorrow morning I have to call the ENT to discuss the kids ears. Kaden has now developed an infection in the other ear now. He woke up this morning with the right ear hurting and draining like crazy. now both ears are hurting him and running like rivers. I might have to take him in tomorrow afternoon to have the ENT take a look because of the amount of fluid that is still coming out of his ears even with being on the antibiotics drops for 3.5 days. They might have to vacuum out his ears like they did last time when he had this much fluid draining so that the tubes do no back up and get pushed out. So, who knows... we will see what the nurse says tomorrow. Well, that's about all I've got to report for the time being!! Blogging takes my mind off of things so that is why you are seeing so many posts from me:-) I know most of this is probably not very interesting and boring, but it's a good distraction for me.
Here are a few pics from our outing yesterday:
Me and the kids Friday night....I though this was going to be my last preggo pic, but it was not!!!
Papu&Nanu with the kids on the Zilker Express
Kids In Dino Pit
Kensley sweeping away
Kaden Playing in the water
Papu With His Babies
Me and My Dad...I'm too big to get up!!!
Well, Friday night we all thought Kohen was going to arrive, but I'm telling you this stinky little girl is just wayyyy to comfortable. Around 3 pm on Friday I started having consistent contractions. I finally started getting "show" and of course got really excited about that because last time I started getting bloody show I was already in labor with Kensley in the hospital. So, I figured labor was right aroudn the corner. The contractions were ranging from 7-10 minutes apart. They were not hurting really bad so, I figured I would just wait it out. My parents, the kids, and Ken and I all went out to dinner and then Ken and I did some major walking. The contractions picked up to 5-7 minutes apart. I could still handle the pain so my parents went ahead and took the kid with them Friday night just in case we had to head to the hospital. Once we got home Ken and I did some more walking and I had more "show" and then I took a shower and just waited to see what was going to happen. Well, I tell you what happened....the contractions started loosing consistency as soon as I got into bed. I ended up waking up several times throughout the night with contractions, but nothing major to send me off to l&D.
So, Saturday rolls around and at 6 am and I got up and the contractions started back again. I start timing and waiting for Ken to get up. Finally around 10 am I told Ken lets go walking. The contractions started to pick up. I was hurting pretty good by the time we got back to the house. For lunch we met my parents, the kids, and Auntie Chur-Chur for lunch at P-Terry's. This is one of our favorite burger joints in Austin. On the way to P-Terry's we got stuck in major traffic and guess what....contractions kicked in and I was having them 10 mins apart!! Okay, I'm thinking this is good and bad. I do not want my water to break stuck in traffic:-) Well, of course that did not happened. We had lunch and headed for Zilker Park for the kids to play. After a train ride, some play scape time, a visit to the Austin Nature Center I was worn out, but still contracting consistently and had been since lunch. We had an early dinner around 5 and ran a few errands and everything was looking good contraction wise. They were still coming 5-7 minutes apart. So, my plan was go get home, shower, and hang out. If they continued after I got into bed I was going to call l&D. Well, as soon as we got home and I got a shower and the kids were bathe I think I passed out at 8:30. I was totally worn out!! Had several contractions that woke me up last night, but nothing to send me off to l&d. So, as of yet no baby this weekend. Kaden told me yesterday that there is really no baby in my tummy....I've just eaten too much. I am starting to wonder if he is really right:-) Oh well, we will see what today brings. So far, just a few inconsistent contractions and cramping.
Well, as a suspected in my post earlier this morning, both kids do indeed have ear infections, grrrrr.... When we arrived at the Pedi this am they were both running temps. I had no idea because they really did not feel warm to me. So, that was a surprise. Well, it ended up that both of the kids have ear infections in their left ears. I swear these 2 must be joined at the hips. It is so crazy how they mirror each other. Since Kaden does not have any nose drainage, swollen glads, or etc. we are just treating his left ear with antibiotics drops. No oral medication....YAY!! However, his ear is draining like a river and that's what we want it to do, but because of the the amount of drainage coming out we have to keep a close eye on it since we do not want the fluid to push the tube out especially since we just got these. So, just drops for 10 days, motrin, and monitoring.
Now my little princess on the other hand is miserable. Her infection is in the ear that has the non-functioning ear tube since it is coming out and her ear can not drain. The good news is that Kensley has not had an ear infection since Jan so this is our wait and see infection. If she stay infection free more than likely this will be considered an isolated incidence. However, if the infection keeps coming back then we will probably have to repeat tubes for her too. Of course, my fingers are crossed that this is just an isolated incidence. Since this is the ear with the non-functioning tube we can not use the drops, but instead are on a 10 round of oral antibiotics twice a day. The medication should clear up her green snotty nose and her ear infection.
To make a long story short I had a long convo with the Pedi today. Am I doing the right thing, is there anything else I can do and etc. to combat these infections and basically what it boils down to is that we are doing the right things, the tubes are helping, but unfortunately this could be hereditary/genetics/allergies or that the tubes are just not draining enough. We are going to try putting Kaden on daily benadryl at night to dry him out and see if that helps, but it could cause more problems due to over drying, but hey it is at least worth a try. So, looks like we have 10 days before follow up appts start with the Pedi and ENT. I'm sure by that point I will have 3 kiddos in tote by then!! Holy man am I going to need my Mom's help or what????
Yes, I'm up again at 4 in the morning. However, this time it was not because I could not sleep, but rather the kids. At midnight I was woken up by a screaming mad woman aka Kensley. She woke up crying with her right ear. Mommy ear hurt, ear hurt. So, a thin strip for her hacking cough, a quick wipe of her snotty nose, and some Motrin she was all set to go back down, but insisted on staying in Mommy and Daddy's bed. Okay, she doesn't feel well so I cuddled her right up next to me and back to sleep we all went. Well, 4 am rolls around and guess who I am greeted with next?? Yep, Kaden. He crawls into our bed and several minutes later I hear him and Ken talking and I asked what was going on and Ken said that Kaden is crying with his left ear. So, I go find a flash light and sure enough his left ear is flowing like a river. Holy crap...I knew our ENT appt was too good to be true last week!! So, off I go downstairs to get the Floxin drops and Motrin for Kaden. Now, Kensley is up again and she wants to go downstairs with me. Once we get downstairs she wants a banana. You are kidding me??? So, with banana and meds in tote I some manage to crawl back upstairs and get Kaden all dosed up, but guess what??? Kensley's ear is hurting again and she does not want to go back to sleep. So, we are up and she is sitting in my lap as I type. Hummmm..what's going to happen next??? Yep. I'm betting my water breaks today!! So, the pressure is on to get the kids feeling better ASAP!!! As soon as 8 am rolls around it looks like I will be taking both kids to the Pedi. I need to get their coughs and ears nipped in the butt BEFORE I go into labor so that my parents are not stuck at the Pedi with them or worse taking care of 2 sick kids that only want Mommy. Okay, stayed tuned. I have a feeling this weekend is going to be a rather eventful weekend!!!!
I finally threw in the towel on sleeping. Yes, it is 4:40 in the morning and I am wide a wake as a hoot owl. I've been tossing and turning for hours and it driving me crazy so I just got up. Who needs sleep anyways?? So, yesterday while the kids, my Mom, and I were out shopping we stopped by Build-A-Bear and the kids built Kohen a bear to bring to the hospital when they come to visit her. Well, that is if this stinky little girl every decides to arrive! Yes, Mom is getting very impatient!!! Anyhoo, the kids picked out a Velveteen Bear for Miss Kohen. They really had a lot of fun building and stuffing this bear. She has totally been customized for Baby Sister. She says, "I Love You," has a pink baby blankie, rattle, bottle, hat, and pacifier. Now, are you ready for her name?? Kaden named the bear Chockie Electric. Now, I have no idea where that name came from, but that is what he insisted on, so everyone meet Chockie Electric. Our newest Build-A-Bear for Baby Kohen.
Kaden&Kensley Warming Chockie Heart For Baby Kohen
Give Chockie Her 1st Bath
I'm so thankful that I have my Mom and that she is such a huge part of our lives. I really could not do it without her. Today was a rather tough day for my Mom today. Today was her Mother's birthday and ever year when this day arrives it's a constant reminder that she is not here anymore. So, generally it is usually a sad and depressing day for my Mom. My grandmother passed away many years ago at the early age of 48 due to cancer. I still remember the day she passed like it was yesterday. I was probably Kaden's age or a little older. I was really close with my Mom's mom. The bond that I had with my Nanny is like the bond that Kaden, Kensley,and soon to be Kohen have with my Mom. I'm so lucky to have such an awesome and loving Mom!! So, to make the day a little brighter for my Mom we hung out pretty much all day. We had lunch together, took the kids to the mall/shopping and caught an afternoon movie that I fell asleep in!! I know even after all these years today is still hard on my Mom, but hopefully being around us today was a good distraction and I hope it made today a little easier on her. Love you Mom and thanks for being such an awesome Mom and an even more awesome grandmother!!! You truly are the best and I'm so thankful to have you in my life!!
Not a tremendous amount of progress, but I guess I will take what I can get right?? I'm now 3cm and still 80% grrrrr. I'm up 1 cm from last week. I was hoping for more, but it is what it is. I am so hoping tomorrow will be my day. My Doc is on call tomorrow and after that she is out of town for the next week and a half. So, if I do not go tomorrow she will more than likely not get to deliver Kohen,which sort of bums me out because that is what happened with Kensley. I was 3cm and 75% and my water broke at 38 weeks with Kensley and I had to use the on-call Doc because my Doc was out of town. However, the on-call Doc was great, but I would really like for my OB to deliver this time around. Oh well, I'll take whoever I get when the time comes. I really like all the Doctors in this particular practice. So, let see, I'm up 34 lbs total for weight gain and Kohen's h/b was 130 today. So, once again my Doc said....."I doubt you will make it to your next appt." and my response with a big puckered lip was..."You said that last time I was here and look I'm here today." So, I'm now officially in need of some labor vibes. I really want another repeat VBAC, which means....I've got to go on my own, no induction. So, send me some labor vibes my way!!!
In the end, Nanu and Papu's cat, Bell, ended up with 5 little kittens. They are all white except for one little orange one. Kaden is totally in love with all of them and has come up with some really crazy names for them. Here are a few pics of the kids with the Bell and her kittens in the tool shed.
Bell with her 5 new kittens
Kaden petting Bell
Kensley smacking on some gum while yelling kitty kitty
Hope everyone enjoyed Mother's Day yesterday. I really enjoyed my nice relaxing day. It's really great to be treated like a queen!! I'm so lucky to have such an awesome Mom and I'm so thankful that I've been blessed with the miracle of Motherhood myself. The day was perfect in every way!!! BTW, Kohen if you are listening...it's not too late to give me a belated Mother's Day gift today. Your arrival would be much appreciated today!!
Well, Kaden is getting a full blown anatomy lesson today. Kaden is with my parents today and I just got a call from my Dad a few minutes ago and guess what??? Their cat is in labor today and has had one kitten so far and another is on the way. Kaden started screaming, "Hurry Papu there is a rat hanging from the cat's butt...kill it kill it." My Mom and Dad just started cracking up laughing. It very ironic that their cat is having her kittens today. We just met my parents earlier for lunch and my Dad told me that I reminded him of their pregnant cat. Pregnant and pissy:-) He told me that when he went up to the cat this morning she just puffed up and hissed at him. So, I guess I must look like a puffed up, miserable, and not to mention very pregnant pissy cat. My Dad had to call to rub in that the cat is beating me to the punch on baby day. So, have I hit an all time low?? I'm now competing with a freaking cat!!! Oh no, I tell you...I'm super competitive and this cat is not going to be the only one having a baby this weekend. So, here I sit mad, frustrated because I have been having contractions on and off today, and still nothing painful!!! Grrrrrr... I think hitting the full term marker has made me insane and now I feel like I can not wait any longer. I guess I'm just being selfish and I know Kohen will come when she is ready, but I want her here and I want her here NOW!!! So, I'm having another freaking cup of raspberry leaf tea and Ken, Kensley, and I are getting ready to do some super speed walking and shopping. Oh yeah, on a final note, I told my Mom, great...now Kaden is going to tell everyone...,"Hey my Mommy is going to have a baby out of her butt." I guess I will just keep it at that because I'm not ready to give a 4 year old an "official" anatomy lesson.
Dear Miss Kohen,
You can make you grand entrance now. Big bother Kaden, big sister Kensley, and I put your bassinet together yesterday. Yes, Mommy broke out the power tools and now you now have a fully assembled bed that passed Daddy's inspection. I had been holding off on putting it together until you came home for the hospital, but then it click....you've been waiting on your bed. So, now you can no longer use the excuse that you have nothing to sleep in. I woke up several times to go to the bathroom last night and it was really surreal seeing a bassinet back in our room again. Yes, I did have to look a couple of times during the night to see if you were already in there. Seeing it again 1st thing this morning did put a huge smile on my face and I'm just so ready to met you. So, give your Mommy a break and do not make me wait any longer!! I'm so ready to meet you!!
Love Always,
Mommy
I got this email from a good friend and thought it was too cute to not share:
Job Description
This is hysterical. If it had been presented this way..........Well, just read on:
POSITION :
Mom, Mommy, Mama, Ma
Dad, Daddy, Dada, Pa, Pop, PopsGrandma, Nana, Maw-maw, Mee-mawGrandpa, Gramps, Grumps, Big Daddy, Grandad
JOB DESCRIPTION :
Long term team players needed, for challenging
permanent work in an
often chaotic environment.
Candidates must possess excellent communication
and organizational skills and be willing to work
variable hours, which will include evenings and weekends
and frequent 24 hour shifts on call.
Some overnight travel required, including trips to
primitive camping sites on rainy weekends andendless sports tournaments in far away cities!
Travel expenses not reimbursed.
Extensive courier duties also required.
RESPONSIBILITIES :
The rest of your life!
Must be willing to be hated, at least temporarily,
until someone needs $5.
Must be willing to bite tongue, repeatedly.
Also, must possess the physical stamina of a
pack mule,
able to go from zero to 60 mph in three seconds flat
in case, this time, the screams from
the backyard are not someone just crying wolf.
Must be willing to face stimulating technical challenges,
such as small gadget repair, mysteriously sluggish toilets
and stuck zippers.
Must screen phone calls, maintain calendars and
coordinate production of multiple homework projects.
Must have ability to plan and organize social gatherings
for clients of all ages and mental outlooks.
Must be willing to be indispensable one minute,
an embarrassment the next.
Must handle assembly and product safety testing of a
half million cheap, plastic toys, and battery operated devices.
Must always hope for the best but be prepared for the worst.
Must assume final, complete accountability for
the quality of the end product.
Responsibilities also include floor maintenance and
janitorial work throughout the facility.
POSSIBILITY FOR ADVANCEMENT & PROMOTION :
ABSOLUTELY None!
Your job is to remain in the same position for years, without complaining, constantly retraining and updating your skills,
so that those in your charge can ultimately surpass you.
PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE :
Unfortunately, NONE required.
On-the-job training offered on a continually exhausting basis.
WAGES AND COMPENSATION :
Get this! You pay them!
Offering frequent raises and bonuses.
A balloon payment is due when they turn 18, because
of the assumption that college will help them
become financially independent.
When you die, you give them whatever is left.
The oddest thing about this reverse-salary scheme is that
you actually enjoy it and wish you could only do more.
BENEFITS :
While no health or dental insurance, no pension,
no tuition reimbursement, no paid holidays and
no stock options are offered;
this job supplies limitless opportunities for personal growth, unconditional love,
and free hugs and kisses for life if you play your cards right.
Forward this on to all the PARENTS you know, in appreciation for everything they do on a daily basis,
letting them know they are appreciated
for the fabulous job they do...
or forward with love
to anyone thinking of applying for the job.** A FOOTNOTE **THERE IS NO RETIREMENT -- EVER!!! **If you are fortunate enough you will become grandparentsAND YOU MAY HAVE TO RAISE THEM TOO!!!
Today both kids had follow up appointments at the ENT bright and early this morning. Looks like Kaden's ears are perfect post-op. The tubes look great and his ears are infection free. They also re-tested his hearing and on high pitches we saw a 5 to 10 decibel increase so that was wonderful news. However, he still has some issues with low-tones, but they said no need for concern because he still falls within the normal hearing range. Kensley also aced her appointment as well. Her's was just a normal tube check. The tube in her left ear has come out and is on top of her ear drum. So, it's non-functioning and should eventually migrate out. The other tube is still in place and still functioning in her right ear. Her ears looked great and they too were infection free. So, all in all we had a great follow up appointment for both kids!!!
Well, I'm officially bored. I know you think that sounds crazy, but really there's nothing else left for me to clean except for the bath tub, which I really can not bend over to do. I think I've clean everything I can possibly clean today. So, is this nesting all in my head or what?? I have no idea at this point so here I am waiting and waiting and waiting. As most of you know I am not the most patient person in the world so this is driving me NUTS!!! So, as soon as Kensley gets up from nap I think we are going to have to leave the house for a while before I break out the power washer and start cleaning the outside!!
My last and final post of the day. I'm on a blogging role. I think it must be that feeling that I could have Kohen any day now and I guess I just feel the need to blog about everything. Maybe since my house is super clean this is my way of nesting since I really have nothing left to clean, who knows....
Okay, back to business and the reason for my post. I just had to quickly thank TWG!! Ken's office totally hooked us up today. The office surprised him with a cake, card, and a very generous gift card to Target for baby Kohen. Thanks again TWG!!! Your generosity and kindness is totally appreciated!!! I promise to bring Kohen and the kids by for a visit after her arrival!!!
Here's a pic of the kids enjoying the cake
Now these belly shots are no where near Terri Mason quality, but with all of my kiddos I've taken weekly belly pics. So, here I am baring my big ole 9 month belly!! I had to get the 37 week pic taken just in case this is my last belly shot. I just looked by at my belly photo's with Kensley and 37 weeks was my last photo taken. So, here I'm!!! Oh yeah, the reason for the cheesy grin is because Ken literally had to sit on the kids to take these pics. They give him hell every time I ask him to do this chore because they want to get in the picture and act like crazy monkeys and so on.
Yes, I've been feeling a little hormonal and emotional today. You know it is going to be one of "those" days when the Zales Mother's day commercial makes you cry!!! This morning I broke down on the way to Kaden's school because a song came on the radio that I used in his birth movie. Of course, I was crying my eyes out because it only seems like yesterday that he was born. He quickly told me, "Mommy that's not my song anymore...turn the station." Well, I think that made it worse because we always used to sing "His" song together. So, that was my 1st break down moment of the day. Then during nap time I go and post about the his appendix rupture and that made me cry like a baby!! However, before I broke down about his appendix rupture I really lost it when I went to pick Kaden up from school today. As soon as I arrived, I saw Kaden standing right by the door grinning from ear to ear waiting to hand me something. He gave me a big hug and handed me my Mother's Day present. Well, the tears just started coming and I think I cried the entire way home. Here's my Mother's Day masterpiece from Kaden:
Today marks the 2 year anniversary that Kaden was rushed into emergency surgery for a severely ruptured appendix. So, needless to say, today is a very humbling day for both Ken and I. We both feel so very blessed and are so grateful that our kids are healthy and we made it through that really scary day 2 years ago today. I will never forget what it felt like being rushed via ambulance to The Children's Hospital with my baby in so much pain. I would have given any thing in the world to have traded places with him. Looking back just makes me so very thankful that Kaden is a rowdy and rambunctious 4.5 yr old boy today. I've probably hugged and kissed Kaden a thousand times today. After this day 2 years ago today, I now always err on the side of caution and go with my Mommy instinct and will run the the pedi at the drop of a dime when something does not seem right. I got burned with Kaden's incident and now my philosophy is it is just not worth risking it!! I would rather be safe than be put into a similar position again.
Here's the story from the hospital log that I kept:
On Friday May 5th, I was getting ready to go to work and Kaden woke up with his tummy hurting. He was being really clingy and I figured it was because I was going to work and he was looking for a little attention (Mommy going back to work for 2 weeks with baby sister, just having a new sister, and etc). He seemed pretty normal otherwise. He threw up a little and I asked my Mom if she could come to my house today to watch him since this was my last day at work and my team was throwing me a good bye party. If this had not been my last day I would have just stayed home. Well, I went on into work around
Just got back from my 37 week appt and it looks like the cramping for the past 2 days has put things in motion. Last Wednesday I was 1cm and starting to thin and today I am 2cm and 80% effaced and the baby is way low!! I was totally blown away at being 80%. The doc said she thinks she will see me in l&d before my next appt. So, I just might get my Mother's Day baby!! I'm super excited, but do not want to get too excited if you know what I mean because I do not want things to stall out and I end up going to 40 weeks!! Anyhoo, just wanted to share my exciting news!!!!
Happy Cinco De Mayo!!!!!! Like I said in my Cinco De Mayo drink pos, t I'm usually kicking back a nice cold Mexican Beer in honor of the holiday today, but this year I have to pass due to being pregnant. Since I do not get to indulge in my nice cold beverage, I'm already looking forward to kicking back some good Mexican food for dinner tonight. I really do not know if I want to fight the restaurant crowd tonight so we might just do a take out order at Chuy's. That sounds really yummy!!! Who knows...maybe that is just what I need to kick things into motion. Kaden is pretty confident that Kohen is going to arrive on May 6th, which is tomorrow. I also have a Dr. appt so at least I will know where I stand progress wise as of tomorrow afternoon. I'm getting so excited and can not stop counting down the days until we meet Miss Kohen. I think the kids are getting excited too. Kaden and Kensley both wanted to buy a stuff animal in the Disney store for Kohen yesterday so I let them pick out one each to bring to her in the hospital when they come to visit. It was really cute. Also for the past 3 days Kaden wakes up every morning and asking if Kohen came last night and my response is, "Does Mommy still have a big belly??" He then gets all disappointed when he looks down at my belly. So, as you can see we are all getting a little antsy.
Also today is a pretty special anniversary for me. 2 years ago today, I traded in my company laptop and cell phone in order to become a stay-at-home-mom. It was by far one of the best decisions that I've ever made in my life. Staying at home with the kids has been far more personally rewarding than any job. Now, do not get me wrong... some days are crazy and the kids drive me nuts and I'm just ready for Ken to get home, but I really think our good days far out weigh our bad days. In the end it is all worth it!! I'm thankful that Ken and I have made me staying at home work and I'm very proud that I get to spend my days with our kids.
Well, since I blogged about my awesome day I thought it would be fun to fill you in on what Ken did with the kids today. After, I jetted and I do mean jetted off to the Spa, Ken headed downtown to Zilker Park. The kids were super excited to be outdoors enjoying the beautiful weather with Daddy. Mommy can not hang like Daddy can outdoors these days. Ken first took the kids to P-Terry's, a local Austin hamburger joint and got to-go burgers to take to the park. The kids really enjoyed eating their lunch in the park. After lunch they then hit the Zilker playscape and played and played and played. After the playscape they then took the Zilker Express Train around the park. Then they squeezed in some water playtime in at Barton Springs. Then last,but not least....Ken told me this after I got home that he took both of the kids out in a canoe. I could not believe that he did that alone!! Oh my gosh, I would never ever take on such a task!!! I was just getting nervous when he told me it was a balancing act when both of the kids went to one side to check out the turtles. Now, seeing Ken and the kiddos in a tipsy canoe just might have set me into labor!!! The kids had a blast and really enjoyed their day with Daddy. So, just as much as I enjoyed my day off, Ken equally enjoyed his day with the kids. THANK YOU Ken for my day off!!!! It was much needed and appreciated!!! Here a a few pics Ken took with his phone.
Acting Like Monkeys At The Playscape
Train Ride
Playing In Barton Springs
Canoe Ride
Kensley Thinks She's One Of The Boys Too
Today was just what I need. A full day of pampering!! Around 10:30 this morning Courtney and I headed to She Etc Day Spa in Georgetown to start our day of pampering. It was AWESOME!!! My Mom was already there waiting on us and shortly my sister, Cheryl arrived. My Mom was like a kid in a candy store. She just ate this place up and I'm sure in no time at all she will become a preferred customer:-) My Dad is going to kill me because now she is going to want every treatment under the sun done. Sorry Dad!!!! After some morning drinks, OJ only for me of course, we got started with our treatments. I got a maternity massage and it rocked. I got to lay on my belly with a special pillow and it was HEAVENLY!!!! I could have seriously laid there all day long. Sharon, the MT, was wonderful and I will so be back to see her. Oh yeah, she told me after my massage today I would never make it to the 28th. I hope she worked her magic!!! I'm all relaxed and pampered so now I'm just waiting on Kohen to arrive!!! My Dad predicted that Kohen would arrive at midnight to night on my on-line poll. Not really feeling any action so we will see if he was right or if I will make it a few more weeks/days.
Courtney and my Mom treated their selves to a facial and Cheryl got a foot detox treatment. After our relaxing treatments we were then served a very yummy spa lunch. After lunch we did a little boutique shopping in Georgetown and then hit the outlet mall for a quick pit stop at Starbucks. After our afternoon tea Courtney and I were off for mani/pedis. The pedicures rocked and now my feet and toes are all set for labor and delivery. After the beautification of our toes, Courtney and I got a wild hair and decided that we would get solar nails and WE LOVE THEM!! I have not had nails on in probably 8 plus years and I love the way they look. So, not only are my toes pretty so are my nails. After we left the nail salon we headed home and were greeted by Ken, Brad,and the kids . The kids had fun with their Dad's today, but they were also equally excited to see the arrival of their Mommy's. When we pulled into Courtney's drive I heard Mommy, Mommy, Mommy coming from all directions. Brad got right down to business as soon as we arrived and he grilled some of his awesome fajitas. After stuffing my self silly and the kids almost playing themselves to sleep we headed back to our house a little after 8. I threw and I mean literally threw the kids in the bath and got them all dressed for bed, while Ken went to pick Hendrix up from the groomers. Within minutes the kids were asleep.
Now, I'm officially ready for Kohen's arrival. My blog has been updated and I've got everything crossed off of my to do list. Hendrix has been groomed, my toes are done, my eyebrows are waxed, I've got all the knots worked out of my back...so I'm set to have a baby now!! Holy cow....I'm going to be a Mom again!! I'm so excited!!! Thanks guys for the wonderful day!!! This was a great way to celebrate 9 months of pregnancy!!!! However, I am not waiting for another pregnancy to treat myslef like this again(BTW, not sure why I said another pregnancy...I'm pretty sure we are done after Kohen:-). I think every Mom should treat herself to a Mommy's Day out every now and then. It is so worth it and YES...you do deserve it!!! If you are ever in Georgetown you have to check out She Etc. This Day Spa is awesome and I will so be a repeat customer. Sandra, the owner, is a hoot and you will just love her and her awesome staff!!! Thanks again for the awesome day!!!
My Pampering Crew
My Mom, Courtney, My Sister
Me and My Family...Do we look alike or what??
Cheryl and Courtney planned at day at the spa for me. My Mom is also meeting us there and we are going to get pampered and have lunch. I can not wait!!! I'm getting a day of pampering and shopping WITHOUT kids!!! Yippiee!!!! Ken is watching the kids while I'm enjoying my last free kidless day for a long time. I was really worried I was going to go into labor last night. I had a really active contraction night last night and figured that would just be my luck because of my day of pampering that was planned for today, but they faded away and I'm feeling good this morning. Last time I had a massage planned my water broke and needless to say I never made that appt. I'm so looking forward to today and I hope I will see some progress at my appt on Tuesday from the contraction action last night!!!! Well, that is if Kohen does not decide to arrive before them. All I ask from her is to let me get my day of pampering in and she can come tonight or whenever she chooses...well that is as long as she does not make me go into JUNE!!
Well, I suppose this year I will not be kicking back with my traditional Mexican Beer on Cinco De Mayo. Can you tell I'm craving a nice cold Mexican beer with lime and salt??? yes, my mouth is watering right now. However, I still plan on eating some good Mexican food!!! For those of you who can drink here are a couple of fun recipes I got in an email today and thought I would go ahead and share ahead of time in case you are planning a party or perhaps if you want to start celebrating early. For those non-drinkers or preggos I've included one for use too...it's a Mocktail. Have fun and enjoy!!!
Cinco De Mayo Sangria
Last Minute Sangria
Traditional With A Twist
Spice Up Your Beer
Mix Up Your Margaritas
A Tropical Take
A Mocktail for those of us who are preggo!!
