Christmas 2014

I can honestly say, Christmas gets better and better every year.  I'm pretty sure being able to witness the magic of Christmas through a child's eyes is like nothing else or anything I can even describe.  I don't know if it's the nostalgia of remembering the years when Santa came to visit us or the beauty of teaching children we can believe in things we don't see or just the overall difference in people during this time of year.  Whatever it is, I don't ever want it to end.  Logan's innocence is so purely captured.  Not only did he "get it" this year with Santa and the elf, but thank goodness for an awesome church, I feel like he began to understand the true meaning of Christmas and the reason we celebrate. 

We had so much fun over the last few weeks and I'm a little sad to see it go again for another year.  Luckily, I wasn't too hesitant to pack up Christmas, knowing that our newest addition will be joining us in just a few short weeks.  I have been busy getting the house organized and ready for Baby Landon's arrival.

Here's a few highlights of our Christmas fun this year.

My silly little shopper helping me on a Target run!

Logan put on the hat and hopped in the boots while I was starting to decorate the house

My mom came over and helped me decorate the house.  By helped, I mean, she did everything and I handed her stuff!  :)  I love the new addition to the Christmas tree.  See Santa's feet diving in the tree. 

This is Logan's favorite ornament.  It came from Mimi and Pop's tree.  He steals it every year.  This year, Mimi got smart and ordered a few extra so he could have one for our tree.  The ornament is a Hallmark ornament from 1986.  Luckily, she was able to find them online.

I love Logan being at my school.  I was able to sneak down to his classroom the day they made gingerbread houses.  He was sneaking some of the candy. 

Pajama Day at school. 

They had a book exchange at their class party.  It was pretty cute! 

He was ripping in to the book he got.  He was disappointed at first because he thought that his wasn't able animals, but luckily it was. 

I asked G.G. for my Great Grandmother's famous shortbread cookie recipe.  I grew up making these cookies with my mom and my nana (G.G.).  I want to start a tradition of making these cookies with Logan to leave for Santa.  He was a big helper.  Didn't you know you cook better when you are almost naked? :)

I got the Christmas cookie cutters out, but Logan insisted on the animal cookie cutters.  He said Santa loves animals because he has reindeer.  Who was I to argue with that logic?  I still snuck in several Christmas shapes.

This is my G.G.'s recipe card. 

We had a really nice lunch with G.G. and Josh, Megan and Mackenzie.  We ate at one of my favorite spots, Cheesecake Factory.  Ever try to take a selfie in the parking lot?  Not easy!

G.G. made Logan a special pillow case for Christmas.  He requested reindeer and G.G. delivered!  He loves it and sleeps on it every night.

 

 

We set out the cookies, chocolate milk, water and carrots, and a goodbye note for Chippey.  (I forgot to get a picture)

 

Logan got in bed at 8:30, but I don't think he feel asleep until about 10:30.  He finally fell asleep and that must have been when Santa came. 

 

Logan was a good boy this year!

Santa left a little something for Landon, too!

I think he was a little excited! 

 

Here are a few videos from that morning

 

 

This video was when Logan opened his amazing Zoo quilt from G.G.  She has been working on this quilt for months.  Logan has been able to get a few sneak peeks while she has been working, but as you can see, he was very excited.  We have to find the perfect spot to hang it up. 

 

This was a really cool map that Santa left Logan that has animals, continent and country names that you stick on with velcro.  He was really into it. 

 

We were so blessed this year and are so thankful for the many amazing things that God provided for us this year, especially our sweet Baby Landon. 

 

 

 

32 Week Picture

 

32 Weeks

 

 

How far along? 32 Weeks

How big is baby? A Squash

Total weight gain/loss? maybe 23 or 24 pounds?  Just a guess

How am I feeling?  This has been a great week celebrating Christmas and I have been feeling great.  Overall this pregnancy has been great so far and I really can't complain too much. 

Gym Activity? Didn't make it last week.  My membership is being frozen in January....at least I was good about going in the beginning, right?    

Maternity Clothes? No new clothes.  I probably could use a few more things, but just don't want to spend the money, so just making due.  This week has been basically pjs or black yoga pants since I haven't had to go to work or be anywhere most days. 

 

Stretch Marks? Still in the clear!  My mom gave me some vitamin D lotion that I started using on my tummy at night.  Not sure if it will help keep them away, but worth a try.

Sleep? I wake up about 4 times per night.  Either to go to the bathroom or just because I can't sleep.  We've been staying up a little later since we don't have school.  The problem is my wake up time is still the same.       

Best moment this week?  This Christmas was really great!  I swear every year gets better since Logan seems to be more and more into it.  He has been counting down with 3 different advent calendars since Thanksgiving.  Seeing his excitement on Christmas morning was all the presents I needed.  The belief in Christmas Spirit is magical.  I hope he never loses that. 

I spent one morning with my mom doing a little last minute shopping and we decided to stop at Babies R Us to make a quick registry.  A few of my friends are throwing me a small baby shower (called a Sprinkle) and I registered for some diapers, wipes, breastfeeding supplies and a few other things.  That was fun and made me realize just how close we are to meeting this little guy.

Movement? He's still moving like crazy.  He seems to be the most active at night when I'm in bed. 

 

Food Cravings/Aversions? I've been wanting cheese again and of course loving all of the Christmas sweets.  I'm trying not to eat too many, but it's hard when they are right in front of you. 

Gender? It's a BOY!

Labor signs?  I think I did too much yesterday and was having some Braxton Hicks contractions.  I am going to try to take it easy today

Belly Button?  I guess still flat. 

What I miss? I miss being able to bend down and put on my socks without it hurting. 

What I'm looking forward to? I'm looking forward to trying to get the 3D pictures again next week.  I'm also looking forward to my prenatal massage on Monday.  Hopefully it's better than the last one.  Logan's cast comes off in 10 days, so looking forward to that, too!

Milestones/Development: He's getting ready for his descent -- he's likely in the head-down position now.  He's probably feeling even more cramped.

 

 

31 Week Picture

31 Weeks

 

How far along? 31 Weeks

How big is baby? A Pineapple

Total weight gain/loss? 22 pounds

How am I feeling?  I've been feeling good this week, and feeling like I have gotten a bit bigger.  I'm sure it's just trying to get everything done for Christmas, but I am t-i-r-e-d!  I'm so thankful to have the time off of work to rest and relax a little

Gym Activity? I really need to go.  I think a little workout would be good for me.     

Maternity Clothes? I braved the crowds yesterday and went to the mall.  That was insane!  Macy's has a great maternity department and they were having a buy three get one free sale.  You can't use any of their coupons on the maternity clothes, so when I saw the sale I was excited.  I bought pajama bottoms, a top, and two new nursing bras.  One of my students gave me a gift card for Christmas, so that helped a little, too.  I'm really happy with the pajamas.  They are super soft and will be great for the hospital and when we get home. 

Stretch Marks? nothing yet.  I'm checking everyday.

Sleep? I've gone to be around 11:30 the last two nights, which might be adding to the reason I'm so tired.  My body is still waking up a few times a night and getting up for the day around 5:45 or 6:00.  Maybe a nap will be in my future.       

Best moment this week? We went back to try the 3D ultrasound again, but just like his big brother, Landon still didn't want to show his face.  Granddaddy got to come, too!  We saw a few glimpses of him, but weren't able to get any great shots.  She said he has huge cheeks and tons of hair.  We could actually see his hair floating in the fluid.  It did look pretty long!  He mostly had his hands right up in front of his face or in two fists.  We saw him open his mouth several times like he was trying to get his thumb in his mouth.

 

Movement? Still having lots of movement like those big rolls and kicks.  It's been a little painful a few times.   

Food Cravings/Aversions?   We had lunch with G.G. over the weekend at Cheesecake Factory.  We got a slice of peppermint cheesecake to share.  It was delicious!  I've also been craving Cuties, the little tangerines.  I think I have had at least 2 a day for the last week or two.  

Gender? It's a BOY!

Labor signs?  Nothing yet.  Good thing!

Belly Button? It's almost all the way flat, but still a tiny bit of an innie.

What I miss? I guess I miss being able to sleep through the night, but now I'm kind of getting used to it. 

What I'm looking forward to? I'm looking forward to my OB appt today and of course, I'm looking forward to Christmas.  Logan is so excited about Christmas and I can't wait to see his face Christmas morning.  It's going to be so fun.

While I love Christmas and I don't want to rush it, I'm secretly excited to take down all of the Christmas stuff and get the house ready for Baby Landon. We are hoping to get the carpets cleaned and the house cleaned towards the end of January right before he gets here.  

Milestones/Development: He's going through major brain, nerve development and eye development. His irises now react to light!  All five of his senses are in working order.

 

 

10, 20, 30

Here's a comparison of 10 weeks, 20 weeks, 30 weeks this pregnancy. 

30 Week Picture

30 Weeks

 

How far along?  30 Weeks

How big is baby? A Cucumber

Total weight gain/loss? I think I'm closer to 19 or 20

How am I feeling? I've actually been feeling really good this week.  That back still hurts, but not as much. 

Gym Activity? Nothing this past week.  Now that Logan can't go for swim, I didn't have a reason to have to be there, so I slacked.   

Maternity Clothes? I'm hoping to get out today to do a little shopping.  I am going to look for the pajamas and also for some things for my hospital bag.  I decided I should start thinking about getting it ready over the next few weeks.  

Stretch Marks? Still none, but I'm afraid those last few weeks may get me.

Sleep? Sleep has been pretty good.  I'm able to go, go, go all day, but when I lay down at night to get Logan to sleep, I am done!  I got in the bed around 8:30 a few nights last week.        

Best moment this week? We went for our 3D ultrasound yesterday and we were only supposed to have a 10-15 minute ultrasound.  Because little Landon didn't want to show his face, our ultrasound ended up being about an hour and we get to go back next week to try again.  She wasn't really able to get many pictures, so she wants us to come back.  This is the same thing that happened with Logan and finally on the 4th try we got good pictures.  We were able to see him some and she showed us where he had a TON of hair!

Movement? His bottom is right under my right ribs and he loves to stick it up and rub it across me.  His feet and hands are also poking me all the time.  

Food Cravings/Aversions?   I am still loving the peppermint ice cream.  Cereal and pizza have also been on my mind this week. 

 

Gender? It's a BOY!

Labor signs? Too early

Belly Button? It's still flattening

What I miss? Sleeping on my tummy.  I can't wait to be able to do that again.  

What I'm looking forward to? I'm looking forward this last week of school before Christmas Break.  I love what I do, but I'm really looking forward to the 2 week break and celebrating Christmas.

 

Milestones/Development: His skin is getting smoother, but his brain is getting wrinklier -- to make way for all that essential brain tissue.  He's now strong enough to grasp a finger!

 

 

  

Visiting the Big Guy!

Logan has his Santa list ready weeks ago and was anxiously awaiting our chance to go see Santa.  We always go visit Santa at North Point Mall, but this year they changed the way they do Santa.  Due to some new retail competition, they had to step it up a bit.  This year not only did Santa come, but there was a virtual ride that took us all the way to the North Pole.  This, of course, meant that you had to make reservation to see Santa.  We finally were able to get an appointment and Logan was counting down the days. 
If you remember all of our previous visits, Logan has not really been a fan of Santa. 

(I didn't have his second visit with Santa on my phone, but he was crying there, too!)

He told us several weeks ago, when we started making his list, that he was not going to cry this year.  I didn't really believe him, but we did encourage him. 
He picked out a few of his favorite things he wanted Santa to bring him and glued them to his list.  We got it all ready and headed to see Santa. 

 

We arrived to a huge crowd of people, but were prepared for a wait and a little craziness.  I was still holding my breath about Logan not crying.

 

Our visit started with a visit with Shrek characters around the big Gingerbread house.  Logan loved Donkey the best. 

 

Then we headed around the house and waited in line until it was our turn.  I tried to snap a few pictures of the kids, but it's almost impossible to get a picture of all three.

 

They really liked the house and the LCD screens that kept them entertained while we waited about 30 minutes (even though we had reservations). 

 

When we finally got to the door to enter the house, we were told that we could not have any cameras or phones out, so I don't have any inside pictures.  We designed sleighs, took a virtual ride to the North Pole, and waited a little more. 

Finally, it was Logan's turn to see Santa.  As the doors opened I just knew that Logan was going to change his mind, crawl between my legs and refuse to see Santa.  Much to my surprise, he walked right over to Santa with me and sat right next to Santa on the couch.  He showed him his list and answered Santa's questions with a few silent nods and I think he might have uttered a few words.  He gave Santa a hug and got his picture taken.  Despite how his picture looks, he did smile a few times and was excited about Santa.  I think he was in awe of him and still a little unsure. 

 

We were so proud of Logan and couldn't believe just how brave our big boy was.  I'd say our visit was a success!

 

While we are talking about Christmas, I have to share our newest ornament.  We got this ornament in 2009 when I was pregnant with Logan and I was able to find a very similar one this year for Landon's ultrasound picture.  I love seeing my two boys hanging on our tree.

 

When You Fall, You Get Back On, Right?

Sunday evening we were outside playing and watching Daddy hang the Christmas lights. The weather wasn't too cold, and Logan had pulled 10 different toys out of the garage.  He had been on and off his bike right in the driveway (with his helmet on) and called me to come walk with him in the street so he could ride in the street.  We literally had only gone about 15 feet and it was one of those slow motion moments.  I saw him looking off to the side, which I have warned him about before.  As I was saying, "Logan, keep looking forward, so you can see where you are ....", his bike starting leaning to the left and before I knew it he was on his tummy twisted up in the bike.
He's had this bike since last Christmas, and been on it at least a 50 times, and never had a fall before.  I was thinking, "Oh no, he's not going to want to get back on."
I scooped him right up and he was crying a little bit.  I assumed he was just shaken up.  There were no scrapes, bruises or blood.  I brushed him off, give him a few kisses and snuggles and started to walk back with him to the house.  He continued to cry and I noticed he was holding his left arm to his chest.  I took him inside and put on his favorite show thinking I could distract him and he would calm down.  He watched the show, but continued to cry on and off and when I moved or raised his arm, he would really cry and complain that his arm and elbow were hurting.  I tried to hand him some animals and see if he would reach with the hurting arm while he was watching tv, but he wouldn't even reach for them.  He told me his arm hurt too much.

After about 30-40 minutes and realizing he probably wasn't faking, we decided to head to the Children's Urgent Care in Kennesaw for an x-ray.  Better safe than sorry, right?
We got checked in pretty quickly and only had to wait about 20 minutes in the waiting room.  Logan was much calmer than I thought and didn't seem to be in too much pain.  Of course, we had to bring some animals with us.

Two of the nurses working that night, were nurses that I used to work with at PAMPA.  I think they helped get us back a little quicker.  :)

We saw the doctor, who confirmed that his pain was coming from his elbow and she had us get two x-rays of his arm.  Logan was very brave and sat in the chair with his arm on the table for the x-ray.  He was a little unsure of what was about to happen and didn't like that I couldn't stay with him.  Daddy put on the lead apron and stayed right with Logan while I watched from the viewing room.  

About 20 minutes later the doctor returned and informed us that Logan indeed had fractured his elbow.  She had the nurse wrap his arm in a splint and then a sling was added to keep it bent at 90 degrees.  She said we would need to see an orthopedist in the next few days and they would put the cast on.  Once again, little man was so brave and didn't mind getting the split or sling put on.  He even got a popsicle for being such a good boy.  

It was 9:00 before we left and we were all exhausted.  As we were getting Logan into the carseat (which was quite tricky if you can imagine), he said to us, "Wait a minute, I need a wheelchair".  We both were cracking up!  He feel asleep on the way home and we just carried him right to bed.  We decided to let him sleep with us, just in case he need something or was in pain.  

Monday, Mimi and Pop kept Logan since he couldn't go to school until he got his cast on.  Mimi helped me get an appointment with the orthopedist and we were able to get in at 1:30 on Monday.  I left school and meet them at the office.  The doctor checked the x-rays, and agreed that he needed a cast.  Logan picked a blue cast and was once again much braver than I expected.  He told me needed to go to the toy store on the way home and mommy guilt got the best of me, so I agreed.

 How could I say no to that?

He picked out a super cool giraffe animal set, and luckily it was on sale. We made a quick stop to Carter's to pick up a few pairs of elastic waist pants.  I thought these might be easier for his teacher, since he is not able to go to the bathroom by himself.  

As we finally made our way home, I turned around and he was passed out.  He slept for about 3 1/2 hours that evening once we got home.  I think he had had a pretty exhausting day.  

He's handling the cast really perfectly and it really doesn't even seem to phase him.  Bath time was pretty tricky and he didn't like that I kept bath to about 3 minutes and wouldn't let him play. He's only asked twice for me to take the cast off, so maybe he's getting used to it?  We go back next week for an x-ray to make sure it's healing correctly.  She said he would wear it for four weeks, and maybe 6 depending on how it heals.  We are hoping for 4, but preparing for 6.  

So, here's to hoping that he will get back on his bike in a few weeks and not be too scared of it.  Wish us luck!  

29 Week Picture

29 Weeks

 

How far along? 29 Weeks

How big is baby? An acorn squash

Total weight gain/loss? Around 17 or 18 when I checked this morning 

How am I feeling? I've had a lot going on at work this week, including planning our staff holiday party.  It was last Thursday and it ended up being a really great party.  I got so many compliments.  I think Friday, my body finally slowed down and crashed.  I woke up Saturday morning with horrible back aches and I was pretty crampy.  We stopped at CVS and I bought heat patches to put on my back.  It helped a good bit.  I tried to take it easy, but it's pretty hard for me to do.  I rested when I could and drank a bunch of water.

Gym Activity?  I went one day last week and I also decided to put my account on hold starting in January.  No sense in paying for it if I'm not going to use it right now and I know I won't use it for several weeks after the baby. 

Maternity Clothes? Still looking for the pajamas for the hospital.  I'm hoping to go to Macy's maternity section to find some.  It's hard to order them online.  I want to make sure they are comfortable. 

Stretch Marks? Keep Away!

Sleep? Sleep has been off and on again.  I haven't been able to sleep though the night, but I guess I'm getting pretty decent sleep when I am sleeping.        

Best moment this week? Best moment this week, was watching my little man be super brave on two different occasions.  Saturday, we took Logan to see Santa.  He has cried for the last 3 years, so I was pretty sure he was going to cry again this year.  He had been saying for weeks that he wasn't going to cry this year.  Guess what?  He went right up to Santa, sat on his lap and showed him his list.  It was awesome to see him be so brave. 

He was also super brave on Sunday when we fell off his bike and fractured his elbow...more to come about this.

Movement? He's moving all around.  He's rubbing something, maybe feet or his bottom across my stomach.  It's a crazy feeling.   

Food Cravings/Aversions?   I was at Publix last night and all the sudden I had a thought of peppermint ice cream.  I came home and ate a nice big cup of it.  It was delicious!

Gender? It's a BOY!

Labor signs? Too early

Belly Button? It's still flattening

What I miss? Just my back not hurting 

What I'm looking forward to? I'm looking forward to my doctor's appointment tomorrow, my prenatal massage on Thursday and our 3D ultrasound on Friday.  It's going to be an exciting week.   

Milestones/Development:  He's getting a little cramped in there, since he's growing so fast. But you probably already realize that, since you're getting all those jabs and kicks.  He's growing white fat deposits under his skin, and his energy is surging because of it.  Feel a subtle twitch? It might be baby hiccupping.

 

 

Maternity Pictures

We asked my friend, Megan to do a few family pictures for us and some maternity pictures.  She always does such great pictures for us, and once again, we weren't disappointed.  I am thrilled with how the pictures turned out and have spent hours looking at them trying to figure out which ones are my favorite.