Heat wave, bird chase and contractions!!

Today was HOT HOT HOT!! 30 degrees, but it felt more like 40 without the breeze.

I had a play date planned with a friend of mine for today, but it got rescheduled so I decided to take Nya to Chingcousy Park to have some fun at the park, splash pad and to visit the barn animals.

I packed us a little picnic lunch and a bag of bread to feed the ducks by the pond.

Unfortunately, we found out once we got there that the splash pad is closed until June 1st :( Big disappointment for such a hot day.

Fortunately, Nya didn't mind; she was having a fun at the park. She didn't seem to be bothered by the heat.

I had one mommy look at my sympathetically and ask 'how much longer do you have? I feel for you being pregnant in this heat!!!'. Lol

Personally, I absolutley love being pregnant in the summer! It's just so much more fun to be pregnant in the summer; to me at least.

I was hot today, but it wasn't unbearable. I was sure to carry a big bottle of water with me and make frequent trips to the shade to keep cool.

After an hour or so at the park we decided to check out the barn animals and feed the ducks.

After seeing the barn animals we made our way to the pond to feed the ducks. This is where things took a turn for the worse. What was a fantastic morning turned into a living nightmare.

Perched on the grass around the pond were at least 50 Canadian Geese - no joke. There was a sea of them resting in the shade and eating grass.

We carefully made our way around to the other side of the pond where some ducks were sitting.

No sooner did we open our bag of bread, when we literally charged at by the sea of geese. I'm not kidding!! The whole gang of 50+ geese came charging towards us, wings open and mouths hissing. I immediately grabbed Nya's hand and started walking away quickly. The faster we walked, the faster they charged. I was terrified!!! They caught up to us so quickly and had us literally running along the bank of the pond with no where else to go. I dropped my phone, keys and water bottle in our escape.

They got just a few short feet away from us when I let out a scream and grabbed Nya running.

Imagine the site of that; a 9 month pregnant woman, daughter in arms, running from a swarm of geese snapping at their feet.

I don't remember the last time I was so scared!!

Not far from us were a few groups of school kids and their teachers standing and watching the whole ordeal go down. Believe it or not, not one teacher came to my aid!! In fact, there was a man not far away at a picnic table having lunch who also sat back watching and did nothing.

At this point, I was running through bushes with Nya in my arms as she fearfully yelled 'they are going to eat us!!!' (Looool, my poor child!).

I turned around and threw out some bread at them in hopes that they would stop for the bread and let us go.
Well, half of them stopped for the bread whereas the others thought 'this girls got food; follow her!!!' and ran after us even faster. I threw the whole bag on the ground and kept running until I was able to get us up by the barn again.

After reassuring my little one that we were ok and that they didnt want to eat us, lol, we headed to the car to grab our lunch and sit by the park in the shade.

A few seconds after sitting, I started to feel contractions. Between the running and the weight of Nya in my arms from running, my body wasn't happy.

I sat very still for a bit, finished our lunch and headed straight home.

After taking a cold shower and putting Nya down for a sleep, I felt another contraction hit.

I immediately laid down and put my feet up.

I have since felt a few sharp pains and dull cramping off an on this evening, but nothing concerning.

I have been laying low most of the night and have avoided being up on my feet as much as possible.

Long story short, it has been an eventful day to say the least!!!

Dennard wasn't too happy with me when he got home. He said 'what were you doing out chasing birds?'. I couldn't help but burst into a roar of laughter; which in turn had him laughing.

Like I CHOSE this to happen today, Smh.  Lol
Not even that, but he made it sound like I took Nya to the pond to chase birds!!!! Lol

To set the record straight, we were not chasing birds.....they were chasing US! Lol

One of the many adventures of my pregnancy with Sweet Pea for her to look back on and laugh at. Lol


This is Nya with our bag of bread BEFORE the wild geese pursuit. Fortunately I can laugh about all of this now.... lol

PS.  Dennard said he wants to take Nya, Sweet Pea and myself to Port Credit this Friday to feed the ducks and grab ice cream. After today's experiance, I think we may just go for ice cream! Looool

PPS. I seem to be carrying small to people; my husband says I look huge to him, lol.
Several people I have met this week have asked how many weeks pregnant I am. When I tell them 34, they are shocked. One said she thought I was only a few months, another said I looked like I wasn't due until November, another said she was shocked at how tiny I am.....
I thought I was realitivley average in size for 34 weeks; guess not!  Lol

35 WEEKS!!!!!! The countdown has begun!!!!

Shocker Alert: I am 35 weeks pregnant!!!!! I can't  believe it!!!

At 35 weeks, Sweet Pea is a whopping 20" long, 5.5lbs in weight.

The baby takes up more space than amniotic fluid now.

Over the next weeks, she will be putting on more pounds; anywhere from 1lbs to several more pounds until delivery day.

Just two short weeks from now I had Nya almost three years ago at 37 weeks. The reality that this could be my fate is again makes the butterflies in my tummy whirl.

As much as I'm praying she stays put until the beginning of July, as per my inital due date, I am SO, sooooooo very anxious to see, meet, hold, kiss, snuggle and feed my wee one. I can't wait to hear her first cry, see her in her daddy's arms, and for the first meeting and encounter between Big Sister Nya and herself. My phone will be snapping pics and recording like crazy.

Another benifit of having an epidural. You are in your right frame of mind and body to be fully involved in these special moments without being distracted by the pain and everything taking place to your body after the birth.

I remember the experiance of seeing and holding Nya for the first time and that moment when the whole world just stopped. Through all the commotion in the room with the nurses and doctor, it felt calm and peaceful to us; it felt like it was just the three of us: daddy, Nya and myself.

Dennard has precious video footage (which is like gold to me!) of Nya being laid on my chest and our first few minutes of interaction together. I still cry watching that video. Lol

My husband and I just experianced the greatest miracle in life together as a team and it was like the most glorious dream!

Within minutes of bonding, Nya latched and fed immediately. I remember thinking 'wow! This is easy!'. Lol (I claim an immediate latch and feed with Sweet Pea as well!!)

After her feeding, I passed her to daddy for the first time.

He ever so gently picked her up in his arms, and very cautiously walked her over to the window and sat together in a chair. He was practically nose to nose with her; starring at all her sweetness, innocence, preciousness and beauty. I captured several shots and video of this special moment.

Goodness, I'm getting teary eyed replaying all of these memories. Lol

When I sit and relive these priceless moments, I can't help but be excited and anxious for what our experiance will be like with this little one.  I feel like a kid waiting for Christmas AM. The build up of anticipation is killing me!! Lol

What I regret asking from my first pregnancy that I will be sure to include in my birth plan this time is seeing the placenta after birth. This may make some squirm and weak in the knees, but to me it's super facinating! The placenta is what has kept my child alive and healthy for 9 whole months; providing life, nutrients and oxygen. I want to see where she has 'lived' the last several months.

My girlfriend had a midwife deliver her baby and she was sharing with me how amazing it was to see and be walked through the placenta. The mid wife even showed her the tear in the placenta where her water had broken; how cool!!!!!


How I Have Been Feeling:
 I've noticed on and off throughout the last few weeks that my gums have been bleeding when I brush. I read up on this and spoke to my dentist; it's very common in pregnancy to have sensitive, red, bleeding gums. It's all hormonal.

Sweet Pea has also been having more frequent bouts of the hiccups. Yay Sweet Pea; keep swallowing!!! It's sooooo cool because I can tell exactly how she is positioned when she has hiccups. Today for example, I was laying down and could distinctly feel the arch of her back on my left side and every jolt from each one of her hiccups.
If it wasn't for the hiccups, I wouldn't have known if that was her bum or back I was feeling.

Sweet Pea sleeps through the night.  She remains still and quite the whole night until I wake up and stretch. After stretching, I almost immediately feel her starting to move.  It's like her own way of saying 'is it time to get up mommy?'. Lol

Today at 35 weeks, 2 days pregnant I haven't been feeling so well. I've been feeling rather light headed and have a weird feeling in the pit of my stomach. It almost feels a little like the flu!?! I was out with Nya and turned around and came straight home. I couldn't even stand or walk without feeling like I was going to pass out. I called D at work, let him know how I was feeling and came straight home to lay down with Nya.
Right now I'm just taking it easy on the couch until D gets home.
Dinner will have to be put on hold for the time being...lol

35 weeks Pregnant; on my way to church.  First time in months where we drove to church as a family :)

The SWEETEST baby shower for our Sweet Pea!

Let me start this post by saying that I feel overwelmingly blessed!! Blessed beyond my hearts wildest dreams and more than I deserve.

I sat on my living room floor this AM surrounded by a sea of gifts with tears streaming down my face.

Last night, Thursday May 21st, my two amazing sisters, my wonderful mother and my best friend hosted a very small and intimate baby shower for myself and Sweet Pea.

Seeing that this is our second baby, I didn't see it fitting to have another big baby shower. I already had the big shower with my first.

I was kept in the dark on everything regarding the shower; from the location, theme, time, etc.

I was only told a few days before my shower where it was going to be held and the time. My sisters and mom really wanted to make it as much of a surprise for me as possible. They know I love surprises :)

As I was getting ready for my shower, a wave of nervous butterflies filled my tummy. I couldn't believe the time had come for my Sweet Pea's shower! Time has flown by so fast the last 8, almost 9, months!!! As much I am an extrovert at heart and thrive on large gatherings and events, I was feeling awkwardly nervous as I was laying out my outfit for the night.

I'm use to being the one hosting or attending the shower. I'm usually the one running around trying to pull everything together or keeping the guests entertained and laughing, lol. Even when I am a guest, I usually always find myself helping out in some way or another; it's just in my nature to do so.

This time, I was the guest of honour and boy did it feel strange! Lol

This may have been my second baby shower, but this was my first baby shower where I was the guest of honour and still pregnant! Lol

With Nya, she came 2.5 weeks early and ended up attending my shower with me. That was quite the experiance; she was only 2 days old and we had only been out of the hospital for one day. Not to mention that my milk came in AT the shower!!!!!! Lol

My shower last night was held at my mom's house; the same place where Nya's was held almost 3 years ago. My mom has a lovely home and an absolutely gorgeous garden; a beautiful and intimate environment for a shower.

Nya was so excited about the shower; I had been prepping her for months for this special day. She looked just as radiant as her glowing little face did.  She was beautifully glad in a sweet summer dress with hair bows to match. She was proudly sporting her big sister bracelet that we handmade together a few weeks ago along with a special 'big sister' sash I had purchased for her a few months back. This shower was just as much her night as it was mine and I made sure she knew that.

I emphasized her special and important role as the big sister at the party and that she would have the job of helping to open all her sisters gifts. She couldn't have been more excited!!!!

We pulled up to my mom's house to see to several arrangements of pale pink, white and light green balloons everywhere. Hmmm.....the theme started to become a little clear at this point; could it be a Sweet Pea theme?!?

As we approached the front door, all my lovely friends and family were awaiting our entry.

Nya walked in first and everyone let out a cheer and made a big deal about her being the big sister. I couldn't have been more happy or excited for her :)
She really felt special and recognized.

As we entered through the hallway and into the home, I was overwelmed by all the decorations and gifts that adorned my mom's home.

It was indeed a Sweet Pea themed shower and everything looked so fresh, feminine and elegant.

There were gorgeous arrangements of real pale pink and white flowers everywhere; Devin's 7th heaven!!! Lol And there were so many precious little details.

They had put so much thought and effort into my shower and it clearly showed everywhere that I looked.

The night kicked off with dinner; a 'Sweet' inspired menu to compliment the 'Sweet Pea' theme. How cute!!!

Everything from sweet and sour meatballs, sweet bell peppers with spinach dip, sweet chicken teriyaki skewers and much much more.

After dinner, Nya and I opened a few gifts before the first game of 'sort the basket of baby socks'. All my guests had 20 seconds to sort and match as many baby socks as they could find in the laundry basket. It was such a creative game; it had everyone laughing and literally on the edge of their seats. Lol

I've been to a thousand baby showers and know how difficult it is to find unique and never played before games; so hats off to my sisters for their originality and uniqueness!

My sweet friend Jessie was the winner with four matched socks found within the 20 sec time limit.
She was determined to win :)

After the first game, I proceeded to open more gifts.

Because I have everything from Nya, my sisters asked me to put a list together of brands and products I needed to be include in each invite.

Let me tell you, I got everything off that list multipled by 100! Lol We were SO blessed!!!

Some things on my list included, but were not limited to:

- Live Clean body lotion and wash
- Clear newborn Avent pacifiers
- Size 1 Pampers Diapers
- Wipes
- Sippy cups
- Diaper Genie refills
And a few other essentials

Between the handful of ladies I had invited, I had enough gifts to take home as if I had 100 guests!! Each of these ladies went above and beyond to bless our precious Sweet Pea.

The girls were laughing because I recieved so many Live Clean products (my absolute FAVE!!!!) I could open my own Live Clean store.

I'm set for lotion and wipes for life!! Lol

One thing is for sure, Sweet Pea will be smelling good for years to come! Lol

Believe it or not, I was able to compose myself throughout my shower, including my thank you speech at the end. That was a shocker because I usually cry during my thank you speech at every one of my showers; both wedding and baby. Lol

I did however have one moment where I had to fight back tears and compose myself.

A dear friend of mine bought me a gorgeous plaque for my nursery in the colours of Sweet Pea's room that read: "A daughter will outgrow your lap, but she will never outgrow your heart".

I couldn't even read this out loud; I had to pass it to my older sister Jennifer sitting beside me who too, could not read it out loud without getting choked up herself. Lol

To make a very eventful, blessed night short, I was overall floored by the tremendous amount of love and support poured out over myself and my little family last night. I couldn't have asked for more!

I am truly grateful for those who hosted my shower and for those who came and blessed us.

It is a night I will never forget and one that I will reflect on with very fond memories for many years to come!!!


My darling Sweet Pea, if only you knew how much you are loved right now by so many! You have yet to grace us with your presence; however you have filled all of our hearts and homes with pure and emeasurable love and joy.

Mommy, daddy, Nya and all of our friends and loved ones anxiously await your arrival into this world and can not wait to see your angel face.

God has given us the greatest reward and gift in having you; we are eternally grateful!

Xo
Mommy

The AM sorting of all Sweet Pea's gifts. I was literally moved to tears!

3rd, and hopefully not last, OB Appointment

Today at 34 weeks, 4 days pregnant, I attended my 3rd OB appointment this pregnancy :)

My trusty little buddy and I (big sister Nya-xo) reached our 12:50pm appointment at 12:40pm.

Nothing was new or out of the ordinary with this appointment. I signed myself in, filled the required urine sample and sat in the waiting room with the other mommy's watching 'Family Feud' on the big screen. Lol

One of the daddy's sitting next to me was really getting into the show and shouting answers out at the screen; he had all the other mommy's and myself smirking and chuckling quietly to ourselves. 9Lol

We were taken within 10 mins, weighed in and taken to a room to wait for the Dr.
Doctor Doyle was on staff today; it was the first time I've ever met her.

She was a very pleasant lady; patient and soft spoken.

They checked my blood preasure; all looked good. Listened to Sweet Pea's heartbeat; nice and strong! She measured my tummy; 33". She guestimated Sweet Pea's delivery weight to be around 7lbs. That would be awesome if it is!!! Nya was 6lbs 8oz and my delivery with her was a breeze. I'm praying the same this time around; no 9lbs+ baby...yikes! Lol

I have gained 5lbs since my last OB appointment two weeks ago. The nurse and I laughed and said it must have been the long weekend bbq where I gained the extra 3lbs as I've been pretty consistent with 2lbs every two weeks. Lol

It's either that or the steak and ribs Dennard and I indulged in twice in the last two weeks. Lool
They were so good that Dennard asked me to make them again; almost back to back, a few days apart. Ha ha ha

She checked my chart and believe it or not, I weigh almost the exact weight as I did with Nya when I was 34 weeks pregnant; just 2lbs more.
I thought that was pretty neat! Two separate pregnancies at two separate times in my life,yet almost identical weight gain. I was born to have babies I guess!! Lol I better talk to D about the possibility of a third; just kidding!! Lol

My next OB appointment is in two weeks; June 3rd at 12:45pm. I'll be 36 weeks pregnant then. That would have been my last OB appointment that I had with Nya as she came at 37 weeks. I hope that it won't be my last appointment this time around. Lol

I've got too many things going on in June for Sweet Pea to decide making an early appearance.  I have bday parties almost every week, a church concert the second week of June that I'm performing in, Nya's 3rd bday party the third week of June....etc.

This little one has to stay put until the end of June. Lol

The bday parties are the least of my worrries; however, what I am concerned most about is her coming on the day of the concert or the day before or on Nya's Bday party :/ As long as I can make it past June 20th, I'm good with that! Lol

After my appointment I took Nya to Costco and treated her to one of their yummy chocolate, waffle cone, ice creams. I always treat her to a little something after each of my OB appointments. Just a little something to recognize her, bless her and see her happy :) She deserves it!! She is such a good girl and very rarely ever gives me any problems.

Cheers to another fantastic OB appointment, a great report and good health with myself and Sweet Pea :)

Birthing Videos
I just spent the last half hour as dinner was cooking watching birthing stories on YouTube. I cried all my eye make up off! Lol I haven't watched any of these videos since I was pregnant with Nya; it still has the same effect on me.....tears, tears and more tears of joy! Lol

Seeing that I'm drawing close to the birth of our Sweet Pea, I thought I'd prepare myself once again an watch a few of these videos.

I forgot how emotional I got watching these videos, but more importantly, I forgot how graphic these videos can be at times :/ WOW!!!

To witness what a woman's body goes through during labour and delivery is quite remarkable....and yet disturbing at the same time. Lol  If there was a camera on my face watching these videos you would have seen every expression known to man cross my face!! Lol You would think I was watching a comedy, then love story, suspense and a horror flick all in one! Ha ha ha ha

Mental note for this birth; ensure my husband stays at my shoulders. Lol

34 Weeks Already!!!!!

I am 34 weeks, 2 days pregnant :) Thank you Jesus for getting me this far; I am truly grateful for each day that passes where this little one can stay in my tummy.

With the hospital scare we had several weeks ago, I have learned even more so not to take any week for granted; each one is a blessing!!!

I was reading on babycentre.com this week that a baby can be born between now and 37 weeks and be completely healthy with a night or two in the NIC ward. When I read this I was floored!! My baby right now is fully developed and strong enough to survive on her own if she were to be born!!??! Oh my goodness!!!

The reality of how fast my time is running out being pregnant really hit me :(

I officially feel 'pregnant' now. Lol Everything within my body is screaming 'you're pregnant and drawing close to the end!'.

Where I have clearly looked pregnant, I have felt absolutley fantastic this whole pregnancy!! That was up until recently. I've been really battling the pinched nerve in my right hip, sore, hot and tight feet, discomfort and pressure walking, restless nights, tightening of my tummy, a water break scare (yes!! I thought my water had broken yesterday!!!) etc.

My back has been by far the worst battle to date. What started off being a pinched nerve in my right hip has become a pinched nerve in my right hip and major pain and discomfort in my lower back and left hip. I can no longer sleep on either of my sides; I can only sleep sitting up, propped by 4 pillows and my good old trusted friend; my Snoogle. If I sleep on my side I will have serious hip spasms within seconds.

If I sit in certain way or sit too long, it will trigger the spasms as well.

On the topic of pinched nerves and pain, on Friday I was getting Nya ready in the AM and had a major nerve spasm under my right shoulder blade. It came out of no where!!! I was on the phone with my mom laying out Nya's clothes for the day and WHAM!!! I had to let her go it was so bad; I was literally paralyzed in pain sitting on the edge of Nya's bed.

I tried to move my body ever so slowly and stand up, but the pain was brutal. I sat for a while, motionless, hoping the pain would subside and I'd be back to normal. Nope!! Fat chance. After a few mins, the pain was still there, and just as strong and fierce as ever!

Not being able to move and being in SO much pain, I began to cry. My sweet Nya sitting on her bed beside me saw the tears streaming down my face as I tried to compose myself. 'Don't cry momma!! What's wrong??' she said with deep concern.

'Mommy's back just hurts Sweetie; I'll be ok!' was my response. Seeing the pain on my face and the tears not letting up, she so compassionately said to me 'Don't cry momma; it's ok!! I'm here!!! I'll rub it for you! Don't cry'.  With that, she hopped behind me and ran her little hands up and down my back saying 'I'm here! I'm here. It's ok'. Lol My heart swelled :)

Long story short, it took an hour before the pain dulled enough for me to get off the edge of her bed. I pushed myself to keep going and carry on with the day. The pain wasn't as intense or paralyzing as in the AM, but it remained under my shoulder blade allll day.

Crawling into bed that night, Dennard massaged my back and shoulder for me which helped a bit; however it took two days before it fully went away :/

Water Break Scare:
Yesterday AM (Victoria Day) I thought my water may have broken. I woke up and used the ladies room; nothing unusual; however I seemed to go quiteeeee a bit longer than usual. It was never ending! I sat there thinking 'ohhhh goodness!! Could this be my water leaking!!!'. I got up and started to walk around to see how I felt. I almost immediately started to feel cramping and heaviness.

I went downstairs and told Dennard. We were expecting the church over in a few short hours for a bbq and we needed to act quickly if it was indeed my water. I went online and began to research. Fortunately, every article confirmed that it was NOT my water and most likely just an over filled bladder.

Having the house to still tidy up, washrooms to clean, carpets to vacuum, food to prepare, garbage to take out, etc. both Dennard and I agreed that I needed to take it easy. With the scare from the AM and pressure I was feeling down below, it wasn't worth it for me to push myself.

My sweet husband did all the vaccuming for me and took out the garbage before racing out to pick people up. He was a huge blessing and help.

I swore to myself that I was NOT going to be on my feet all day and that I was just going to sit for once and let others do everything once the bbq started. Things didn't quite go according to plan.

As soon as the car loads of church people arrived, I was back on full motion all over again. Everyone settled and relaxed into the yard and I was left scurrying trying to lay everything out, organized, etc. The life of a Pastor's wife; it never slows down, even when you're almost 9 months pregnant! Lol
Dennard wasnt there to help or see as he was over at the park scoping out the various areas for our afternoon sporting events.

After lunch, everyone headed to the park to play a bunch of planned sporting activities. The house cleared out very quickly and I was left cleaning up the lunch mess. I had a few girls stay back and help me, which I was extremely grateful for.

Being in no state to walk to the park, two of the girls and myself drove over and joined everyone.

Once all the sports and activities were done, everyone headed back to our house for a second bbq.

Again, I was back on my feet getting everything laid out and organized.

By the time the night was over, everyone had gone home and I finished cleaning up, both of my legs and feet were throbbing in pain and my back was shot.

Why do I continue to push myself when I shouldn't? Why don't I just sit back like everyone else? Why can't I just say 'no'? I was rebuking myself in my head. Lol

I bathed Nya, took a shower and put us both to bed. My back and legs were hurting me so badly that I could not lay still and go to sleep. When Dennard got home he tried massaging my back, but the pain was far too rooted that no amount of massaging helped.

When I woke up this AM, my body felt much better  but I was beyond exhausted. Yesterday took every ounce of any energy I had stored up.

Dennard took the day off work to spend time with Nya and I, but I wasn't much company. Lol I was like the walking dead; struggling to stay awake most of the day.
We drove down to the harbour in Port Credit and had lunch, but when we got home I knocked out for a few hours. I don't remember the last time I have felt so tired!!!

An Eventful Week Ahead!!!
I'm very excited about this week! Yesterday we had a blast hosting the church for a bbq (as much as it took a toll on me and my body...lol) today I was able to enjoy an afternoon with my sweet little family (before ruining plans and falling asleep most of the day - sorry :/   lol) tomorrow I have my third OB appointment with a pedicure afterwards, Thursday night is my baby shower (woo hoo!!!) and Friday I have plans to visit my old job and coworkers for the afternoon.

It's a busy week, but a fun filled one!!!! :D

Officially 34 Weeks Pregnant; driving to church Sunday AM :) 

A name....oh a name!!!!

Well, it's the eve of my 34th week milestone and my hubby and I are still torn on a name for our Sweet Pea.

With Nya, it just seemed so easy with picking and deciding on her name.

Several years ago a friend of mine's sister had a baby girl and they named her Anaya. The name struck a cord with me when I heard it uttered from her lips. I was newly engaged at the time and I thought 'hmm, that's a really pretty and unique name?! I'll have to put that in my archives!'. Lol

Fast forward 5 years. The love of my life and I were expecting our first baby; we were extatic and over the moon as we had prayed and planned for this baby. We didn't want to find out the gender of our baby until he/she was born, so we began to research both boy and girl names. The boys name we really struggled with. In fact, we still hadn't fully agreed on a boys name even up until the time my water broke at 37 weeks pregnant; good thing we had a girl! Lol
Anyhow, finding a girls name was just so simple.
It didn't take much discussion or thought at all.

One night laying in bed, flipping through the baby book of names, probably around 6 or 7 months pregnant, I came across the name Nya. Immediately I was reminded of the name I heard several years back 'Anaya' that I had liked so much at the time. Anaya didn't sit as well with me anymore; however, the name Nya screamed out at me from the page.

It was love at first sight!  Lol It was original, elegant, classy, feminine and a name that she could grow with. (Some names are cute for babies, but not for grown adults, vice versa)

 When picking a name, I always think about how it will sound for a baby and how it will look on a resume or sound in the workforce.

Truth be told, names make an impression. It's the first thing an employer sees when they look at a resume; so we try to pick wisely. Lol

(PS. This is one reason why I make sure my middle name is on my resume as most tend to think I'm a boy when they see my name on paper; thanks mom and dad! Lol)

Anyhow, I just loved the name Nya. I also loved that it wasn't common; a name you wouldn't hear being called out at the playground or in a classroom with 20 other students.

I looked up the meaning and my love for the name grew even stronger; 'One with a purpose'.
That was it!! It was a done deal for me. Lol Now, to convince my hubby on it! Lol

I brought the name by him one night on one of our regular walks around the block. He thought on it, said it aloud a few times and said 'hmm... I actually really like that! That sounds really pretty!'.

And the rest is history. We had a beautiful baby girl and her name was confidentially Nya Rose Bynoe.

I've been blessed to be pregnant again with another little girl, but picking her name hasn't been as easy.

As blogged earlier in a post, I was praying one AM a few months back and a name came to me. I really liked the name and brought it by Dennard who too liked the name; BUT we are still tossing it around. Lol We both aren't quite sure if it's 'the name' just yet.

We both laid in bed last night at midnight, searching Google for beautiful and unique girls names. Lol
Dennard would shout out suggestions and say 'write that one down!'. As he continued his search, I would look up the meaning of each name. It was so funny.
It all started from us snuggling and discussing our day to me saying 'Sweets,  I'm really concerned we don't have a name yet. Our little girl could technically come at anytime now!'.

That was all he needed to hear. He immediately grabbed his phone and our search began. Lol

I have been on every baby name website known to man and I have scoped the names in my 10,000+ book of baby names; there isn't a name I haven't seen, heard or pondered. Lol

Needless to say, we searched for a good 45mins and then knocked out. I tossed and turned all night, my mind spinning on all the different names Dennard had suggested. When I woke up this AM, Dennard said 'so, has (fill in the blank name) moved this AM yet?'. Lol

He threw out one of the random names we had discussed the night prior.  I responded 'I don't really like that name'. Funny enough he said 'ya, me either!'. Lol

He then started to use the other names he had originally suggested in our conversation; 'so, when does (fill in the blank name) usually start to get active?'.

He, like myself, needs to hear the name and say it aloud a few times before we can give a firm yay or nay on it.

We both couldn't help but laugh.

None of the names sat well with either of us. We seem to keep resorting back to the name that came to me in prayer.

So, long story short, we are still indecisive :/
I've been praying for God to confirm a name to me and give me peace about it. Still waiting on the confirmation and peace...lol

Today:
Today I was craving a steak burrito from Burrito Boys. On our way to Costco to pick up a few things for our church bbq on Monday (long weekend, woo hoo!!) I told Dennard that we needed to stop off their first. It wasn't even a 'can we stop there' it was a 'we must stop there please!!!'. Lol
 Being the good husband he is, we made a detour and stopped in for lunch :)
Ohhhh let me tell you, it was soooo good!! I was one satisfied little mommy!!! Lol

                   Happily awaiting our order :) he he

     
   Isn't she a beauty!! Check out that burrito :D loool

A Very Special Portrait

Big Sister Nya drew this adorable portrait of her little sister. I was super impressed by her drawing ability at 2.5 years of age. It was too cute not to post :) I love how her sister was on her heart and mind.

This portrait is proudly displayed on our fridge :)

Let's hope Sweet Pea's head isn't as big as it is in contrast to her body, as depicted in Nya's drawing, or I'm in trouble!  Lol Pray for me!!! Ha ha ha ha

Sleepless Nights

Sleep? What exactly is that? Lol

Sweet Pea isnt even born yet and I'm already experiancing sleepless nights.

I spend most nights tossing and turning, up to use the ladies room a few times, adjusting and readjusting, etc.

Most nights I wake multiple times for no reason. I dont have to use the ladies room, Im quite comfy and cozy, but something within my body keeps waking me up. Each time I wake up too, it feels like its morning time already; even if I've only been sleeping an hour?! Lol Its bizzare and crazy.

Last night was the absolute worst night of all the nights this pregnancy.

I spent several hours last night on the couch and at the kitchen table getting papers and spreed sheets organized and adjusted to file for our taxes. I hate doing taxes with a deep deep passion, but it's something that has to be done, so each year I bite the bullet and just do it.

Between the stress of the taxes and sitting for such a long period of time, by the time I was done (10pm to be exact :/) my stomach was super tight and my back was beyond killing me. I could barley walk. My somewhat slight pregnancy wobble was in full motion; literally rocking side to side with each step. Coupled with the tightening, I was also experiancing cramping from all the stress. Oh no!!! Cramping again :/

I went for a drive to the gas station to fill up Dennard's car with gas in hopes that getting out of the house for a little bit would aleveate some of the tightness and contracting to my tummy and back.

The few short minutes I was out, didn't do a thing for me. I came home and took a hot shower to unwind; this helped to release some of the tension with my tummy, but my back was still really sore.

I decided to just go to bed and sleep it all off; wrong!!!!

Sleep was not in the cards for me last night.

I literally slept maybe an hour at most the whole night. The rest of the night I was up with severe pain in my right hip and right tail bone. It was excruciating!!! For the life of me, I could not get into a position that helped take any bit of the pain away.

I was still wide awake when Dennard got up to get ready for work this AM. Once he was out of the bed, I tried stretching across the bed to see if I could get into a comfortable position; nope!!!! I ended up taking all the pillows in our bed, including my Snoogle, propping them all up and sitting up to see if I could get comfortable that way.

Finally, a position where SOME of the pain went away. I ended up falling asleep for an hourand waking back up in pain.

Once getting up and starting my day, the pain subsided; I felt great. That was, until I decided to lay down with Nya at naptime and knocked out with her for 45mins. I woke up to the same pain in my right hip-AGAIN.

Lord help me!! The pain has not subsided since. I'm currently sitting on my couch with constant pain running through my hip praying for some form of relief :(

I remember hip pain when pregnant with Nya, but it was never this bad. I hope that I won't have to endure this throughout the rest of my pregnancy.

Hiccups:
Today I distinctly felt my Sweet Pea's hiccups for the first time. I felt so bad for her. They lasted a good 4-5 mins before going away. As I lay in bed with Nya, I could feel the pattern of her hiccups over and over again very low above my pelvic bone. Hiccups are not a pleasant thing as all of us know. I couldn't help but hold my tummy and think 'it will be ok sweet pea; mommy's here'. I so desperately wanted to just hold her.

As much as I hated to know she had hiccups, I was reassured that she is drinking and swallowing well. I remember my OB telling me when I was pregnant with Nya that hiccups are a very good sign that the baby has learned to drink and swallow properly.

So, as much of an annoyance as it must have been for Sweet Pea and as weird as it was for me to feel such a funny sensation, it's a great sign Sweet Pea is developing well :)

Quick Snapshots from 33 Weeks of Pregnancy

Big sister Nya's hand prints on my growing tummy. Nya was sooooo excited to do this shot. I absolutley love how it came out. A shout out to Pinterest for the sweet idea.

 I snuck this picture last night :) Dennard and I were snuggling on the couch watching 'The Book of Acts' together. Dennard was resting his hand on my tummy and rubbing Sweet Pea. It was so too adorable not to capture. When he wasn't looking, I snapped this picture. Daddy's way of bonding with his girl. Xo

Nya playing music from her princess wand for her sister. Lol I was fortunate to have my phone handy to snap this cute shot. Lol

Exactly 33 weeks pregnant; my two girls and I :)

Check out the time on the clock. Tonight (Tuesday) at around 10:15pm I was hungry and craving Tim Horton ' s frozen chocolate milk, multigrain bagel with herb and garlic cream cheese and an apple fritter. Lol Yes, strange combination.  My incredible husband made a special trip to Tim's just for me to meet this crazy craving. My husband is the absolute best!!!!!

A Tribute to My Mom

This post is a tribute to my mom; a woman with whom I love and cherish so deeply.

This past weekend was Mother's Day.

My sisters and I spent Saturday afternoon at my mom's house in her backyard with the kids, toasting her on Mother's Day, opening gifts and indulging in some yummy strawberry cheesecake and fresh fruit.

Most Mother's Day's we take my mom out for lunch, but this year with the weather being so strangely warm for May, my mom wanted to host us in her backyard. If you haven't seen my mom's backyard before, it's truly an oasis.  She has quite the green thumb and has won several awards from the city of Brampton for having the nicest garden; she's even been asked by brides if they can take wedding picutres in her yard believe it or not. Lol

I admire my mom for many reasons. She is a beautiful example of a woman who lives each day to the fullest and doesn't take one second for granted.

My mom makes friends everywhere she goes with her warm smile, big heart and bubbly personality. You can always catch my mom starting up a conversation and having strangers laughing everywhere no matter where she is. She is a ray of light and her zest for life is contagious.

She is adventurous, outgoing,  witty, generous, hospitable, hilarious and would give the shirt off her back to anyone in need.

This wonderful lady isnt just my mother, but I am lucky enough to call her my friend.

I am so grateful to be able spend another Mother's Day with her and to have her apart of my girls lives.

 9 years ago, next month June, my mom was diagnosed with breast cancer. When all of us were scared and worried with what this could mean, my mom remained positive and never let the disease take away her joy or define who she was. 'I'm going to live!' was her favorite saying; and that she did! GLORY TO GOD!

She is a fighter and survivor. Nothing has or will ever hold her back from following her dreams and living every day as if it were her last.

Sometimes you don't realize what you have until it's gone. I'm fortunate enough that it didn't take that for me to realize how fortunate and lucky I am to have her in my life and how privallged my girls are to be able to know her, spend time with her and grow up with her in their lives.

Mom,  thank you for always dancing through life, even when there wasnt any music playing, for appreciating the storms and pebbles that throw us off course in life sometimes, for always finding the good in everything,  for being there for me, supporting me and cheering me on in life :)

I love you so much and am so grateful for who you are and all that you do.

My girls are blessed to call you Nana!

Xo

Cute Story
I love to make mention in my blogs entries whenever I can with regards to the sweet and precious things Nya says regarding her sister.  I want her sister to be able to look back and read these and know just how in love, anxious and excited Nya was to meet her. So here's another cute story from Nya re: Sweet Pea :)

Last night as daddy and I got Nya's jammies on for bed, I asked her again who her sister was going to look like (so that Dennard could hear her adorable response from the other day).

Pulling her shirt over her head she said confidently "she's going to be beautiful!  She will have flowers in her hair. I can give her my flower hair clips". She then proceeded to her hair accessory frame on the wall pointing out all the floral hair clips she wanted to give her sister.  "She can wear this one!" "She can have this one too if she wants"...

 Nya never ceases to amaze me and melt my heart. She is ALWAYS offering to give her things away to her sister or share what belongs to her with her. She is forever offering up things to her sister with comments like "mommy, my sister can have this if she wants!!!"; even her most favorite of toys and belongings, Nya is so quick to say she wants her sister to have them.

The other day last week I was in the Drs office and Nya was snuggling and holding my tummy like she loves to do; kissing it and talking to her sister.
A lady approached me and started up conversation asking me about Nya, my pregnancy, etc.
She left saying "Your girls are going to be very close!! Just seeing how Nya is with your stomach is a sure sign that they have been bonding already. My kids were the same way. My son was always snuggling my tummy and was so excited for his sister to come; they've been absolutely inseparable since!!!".
I already know in my heart and through my prayers that my girls will be a close knit team, but to hear an observation from a complete stranger on Nya's behaviour with her sister was amazing. I couldn't help but repeat 'Amen!! Amen!' in my head as she was talking. Lol

Another precious story:
Nya adores sitting on my lap as I play the piano at home and sing along with me. My girl loooves to worship Jesus!! A specific prayer God has honored.
In any case, we were sitting at the piano and I was leaning  how to play 'What Can I Do' by Tye Tribbett. Love, love, love this song and decided yesterday AM that I was going to learn how to play it.
As I plunked away at the keys, singing and trying to get the right pace and sound, Nya, eyes tightly closed in worship,  chimed in right away; joining me on the vocals. I grabbed my phone and pressed record in hopes of capturing her sweet little singing voice.
Afterwards, I played it back for her sister against my tummy. Sweet Pea began to flip and turn and get very excited. I mentioned this to Nya, in which she quickly ran over to my stomach, lifted my shirt to expose my belly, gave it a big hug and kiss and said 'She loves my piano. It makes her happy!!' and then began to kiss my tummy some more.

Awwwww, I just love it!!! Moments like these I wish I could capture on video.

Happy Mother's Day!! 33 Weeks Pregnant

Happy Mother's Day!!

What an honor and privallge it is to celebrate this wondeful day with my family and church family.

I tip my hat to all the other mommies out there today; may you be surrounded by those who love and appreciate you the most and may you know how important you are in the lives of your children and family. To the world you are a mother, but to your family you are the world.

Today I don't just celebrate Mother's Day, but I celebrate and rejoice in the fact that I am exactly 33 weeks pregnant today; woo hoo!!!

Today has been a rather emotional day for me. I really don't know why that is as I'm not an overly emotional person; I can only equate it to pregnancy hormones. Lol

This morning started off as usual; the Sunday morning rush to get both myself and Nya ready for church, the house cleaned up and breakfast on the table.  Sweet Pea was rather quiet this morning; I guess she decided to sleep in a little longer. Ha ha

I was hoping to wake up to some of her little flips and jabs, but she was fast asleep. I didn't feel anything from her all morning until I got to church.

I didn't have anyone I needed to pick up today, so I was hoping to drive in to church with Dennard as a family. We haven't driven to church as a family in months. Seeing that we are the only drivers in our church right now, we take separate cars every Sunday so we can pick up the world and back. Lol

I soon learned that Dennard had made lunch arrangements with a few of the guys from church for today and that we needed to take separate cars.

This kind of put a wet blanket on the AM to say the least. Lol

As he scurried to get ready, he shouted a quick 'Oh, Happy Mother's Day!' as he ran out the front door.

I continued getting Nya ready; pondering how I wanted to spend my day with my two girls :) Yes, my two girls!!! What a special day today was for me, even though it wasn't starting off quite as I had hoped or planned. But yet again, when you're a young pastoring couple, when does it ever go exactly has hoped or planned! Lol I can already hear the shouts of 'Amen' from the other pastor's wives out there. Lol

Getting Nya's clothes pulled out, she looked up at me and said 'Happy Mother's Day!'. Aww my precious Nya!! This filled my heart so much.  This was the first Mother's Day where she, on her own accord, wished me a Happy Mother's Day. Last year at almost 2 years of age, she had to be told or prompted by someone to say it. Lol

Brushing her hair I decided 'I'm going to treat us to breakfast on the way to church this AM. Forget cooking!'.  This made my heart happy knowing that I had a few extra minutes to get ready and that I wouldn't have to worry about a kitchen mess before church.

We got to church and I was so warmly greeted by a few of the men in my congregation with Mother's Day wishes. One of them came up to me, his face beaming, and gave me a great big hug. It was the sweetest thing ever.

I made my rounds greeting all the people and wishing all the mommy's a Happy Mother's Day. I felt so happy and so privallged to be in a room with so many great women; celebrating Mother's Day together. It was a very special feeling!

I raced to my piano, pulled my songs and service started. We had a lot of visitors this AM and I was so excited to see each of them as the started to stream in during song service.

All was going great and smoothly until we got to the final song 'The Stand'. I love this song; the words are so powerful and moving. Today, a little more moving than other days for some reason. Lol

As we got to the second chorus, I looked around at the congregation in worship. My heart swelled and my eyes began to fill with tears. A mix of emotions ran through me like a lightening bolt. Once I felt the tears fill up in my eyes, that was it....mentally it triggered even more emotion and the puddle of tears turned into a downright pouring down my cheeks. Lol

Once they started, they wouldn't stop. I struggled to keep focused and on point as I played and sang; praying my back up singers would be able to cover for me vocally and carry the song.

I kept telling myself over and over again in my head  'Stop crying!!! Get a grip! Why are you being so emotional; pull it together girl!!' Lol But I was too far gone at that point.

Try stopping Niagara Falls with a stick; it's impossible! Lol

During handshake time I scooted off to the washroom to try and fix my face and return back without anyone noticing I was gone.

After the morning announcements, my husband called all the Mothers to the front to be applauded and recognized for their dedication as Mother's. I stayed at the back of the church and took pictures; my face was still quite red from song service and I really didn't want the extra attention.

One of the ushers in our church presented each mother with a special gift to show our appreciation for them. I bought each of the ladies a decorative ring and wrapped them in a sweet organza bag; no two rings were the same- just like no two mothers are the same. We are all unique and special in our own way :)

Once the cheers and claps subsided, my husband then broke out into an unexpected speech about me. Me?! Yes, me. Lol

He spoke on his gratefulness to have me as the mother of his children and how thankful he was for my investment in Nya and our family. Awww!! He he

He then sent one of the ushers into the storage room to fetch an arrangement of flowers he had hidden in there for me. Everyone cheered and I quickly slipped into the kitchen to do offering and to avoid any more attention on me. Lol

I came out of offering to hear my husband preaching on me. Me again?! Yes, me again. Lol

His intro to his sermon was his interest and attraction to me when we were still young and single in our mother church.

Now you can imagine the stares and chuckles I got as I walked back into church. (Hide face,lol)

I snuck in and found my seat and thought 'oh gosh, where is all this going?!'. Lol

He was sharing stories of how he noticed my dedication to God, my investment in people and the ministry, my prayer life, etc. He went on for a good 10 mins on what about my love for God attracted him to me and then concluded with 'and I thought to myself....Wow! What a woman!!'.

Everyone, including myself, broke out into a roar of laughter. How adorably sweet, yet embarrassing! Lol

As you might have guessed it, his sermon title was 'What a Woman'. Lol

He preached a wonderful sermon on Lydia in the bible and her love and dedication towards God and others.

I felt very honored that my husband would use me in his sermon in such a beautiful way. It was a lovely tribute to me on Mothers Day.

Anyhow, long story short, on the way home from church I decided that since Dennard wasn't going to be home for the afternoon and since it was Mother's Day, I would treat Nya to lunch.

You guessed it, McDonalds- every child's favorite. Lol

We ordered our meals, got home, unloaded and sat down for lunch. I went to take a bite of my burger only to find that there was NO burger patty inside; only bread, lettuce, mayo and pickles. You've got to be kidding me?!?! Lol

Fortunately, I called McDonald's and told them my situation; they offered to replace both my meal and Nya's the next time we came back.

Needless to say, my special Mother's Day was memorable in more ways then one. Looool

Below are some pictures from my special Mother's Day :)

Our precious Mother's receiving their gifts 

Mother's Day gifts 

All the mommy's and myself

 (my bouquet; curtosy of Nya, he he)

The most precious arrangement I recieved today; hand picked by my sweet Nya. Yes, even dandelions get vased in my home when they are from my girl :D) 

My Mother's Day lunch (minus the burger patty, lol)

'Cheers' for Mother's Day :)

"She'll be cuter"-Nya

Nya was up at the crack of don this morning; 5:30am to be exact.  Staggering into her room after hearing my famous call 'Mooooooooomy!!', I opened her door to find her sitting up in her bed bright eyed. "Mommy, I'm not tired anymore!!" she said, all the while rubbing her eyes. Lol

Ushering her into my bed in hopes of catching a few more hours of sleep, we snuggled under the sheets together as Dennard got up to get ready for work. Laying in bed, Nya brought up her sister again and how excited she is to meet her and hold her. She said 'she can come out tomorrow and I can read to her'. I said 'well, not just yet Nya! She still has to stay in my tummy a little while longer'.  Nya's quick and witty response 'oh, ok. Then she can come Sunday'. Lol

Talking about her sister with her I asked who she thought the baby would like like. I said 'You? Mommy? Maybe daddy?'. Nya looked up at the ceiling pondering my question and responded  'Nope, cuter!'. I roared with laughter.

So according to big sister Nya, Sweet Pea is going to look cuter than everyone else in our family. Lol

I find that with looks, girls tend to favor their fathers looks; with boys they favor their mother more. My theory could be wrong, but of all the people and kids I know, this seems to be the case most of the time.

I'm more than ok with this as I think my husband is pretty darn good looking if I can say so myself, lol, and our daughter is as stunning as the most brilliant cut of diamonds :) She is all her daddy in looks with only a touch of me.
So, if we have another daddy/Nya combination, we better buy a gun. Lol A gun to ward off all the boys interested in our girls! Ha ha

When you're a daddy of girls, shotguns come to mind very quickly as they grow. Lol

In fact, my dad had a riffle in his basement, but it was an old war riffle that he brought out just to tease with. Lol He also had handcuffs. I'm sure my sisters husbands and Dennard knew very early on who NOT to mess with when it came to us girls!! Ha ha ha

On a different note, tonight after dinner my back was just killing me. I was feeling very uncomfortable and my tummy felt tight. Walking up and down two flights of stairs from the kitchen to my patio several times getting dinner ready is what did it I think. I wish we had a walk out backyard from our main level; it would be a lot easier for my pregnant self. Lol

In any case, my husband had plans to work out after dinner but saw my uncomfortable and slow waddle as I made my way back up the stairs. He told me to treat myself and get my nails done and that he'd stay back and watch Nya.

Well, he didn't have to ask me twice! Lol I immediately skipped out the door leaving the dishes on the counter to tend to once I got home. Yes, I actually left my dishes!! Lol

I was so grateful for the 45mins of pampered bliss; God truly knew I needed it. I picked a fun, summery, tangerine orange for my polish; a colour that will go nicely with my dress for Sunday AM.

I left the salon feeling like a whole new woman and my toes looked great to boot.

No sooner did I walk in the door, that my sweet Nya Rose came excitingly running towards me and stepped smack dab on my toes; accidentally wiping off one full nail of polish. At this point, there was nothing I could do but laugh. Fortunately, I had a colour very similar to the one I had picked and was able to touch it up; no one will ever know :)

Cute Story:

Asking Nya today what we should name her sister, she came up with two 'wondeful' suggestions:

1. Alevah
2. Dorby

Lol! I have to admit, these are two very creative name suggestions! I'll have to bring them by daddy to see what he thinks.  Ha ha

                                     Big Sister Nya

Jury Duty? Seriously!!

Well, believe it or not , I received a letter in the mail this week stating that I had been selected for Jury Duty and was legally required to be in court Wednesday May 13th at 9am.

What?!?! You've got to be kidding me!!!! Of all the times to be called for Jury Duty, it's now when I'm 32 weeks pregnant!!

For those who don't know what this means, I have been randomly selected out of all the residents in Brampton to serve on trial as a juror in a legal case.

The details of the case were not disclosed in the letter (seeing that the case is confidential and can only be disclosed when sworn in by a court of law) however, what was stated in the letter was that the case would be roughly 4-5 weeks and that every juror selected would receive $100 per day for serving on trial.

In bold at the top of the letter read that it was an illegal offense to not show up and that there would be legal actions taken.

Now from the many I have spoken to who have once served trial as a juror, I was informed by all that most trials only last a few days. Seeing that the trial I was selected for is for 4-5 weeks, we're not talking some rinky-dink case of  break and entry or a drug bust, we are talking murder, rape, etc.

This situation couldn't get any worse!!! 32 weeks pregnant, being required to stand trial as a juror everyday for 5 days for 4-5 weeks, no alternative care for my 2 year old as I stand trial for those weeks, a case that could very well be for murder or rape, just weeks away from having my baby...

Come on!!!

I immediately called the court house to explain my circumstance. I was told to get a letter of proof from my doctor that I am indeed pregnant and to write in a letter as to why I didn't think I was fit to stand trial.

The next day I called my Dr and requested a doctors note asap. My doctor refused to state anything in her letter regarding my prior hospitalization this pregnancy or the fact that I was recommended to be on bed rest. She said that she would only confirm in her letter that I was pregnant and my expected date of delivery.

I was not happy about this. If anyone should have my best interest and my child's at heart medically, shouldn't it be my doctor?!? I am by no means fit to stand trial this far along in my pregnancy; especially after my hospital scare with early contractions! Why she wouldn't want to explain my situation and try to help me get out of jury duty fathoms me.

That's a whole different blog post in itself!!! Ha ha And another reason why I'm switching doctors once Sweet Pea is born. I haven't been happy with my current family doctor for the last year or two and have found myself a new family doctor for myself and my two girls once the baby is born.

In any case, the receptionist at my doctors office was telling me how she once served on trial and how she served alongside a woman who was expected to give birth two weeks after serving on jury duty. The court refused to dismiss her from jury duty just because she was pregnant and made her stand trail anyway.

Why a judge would want a hormonal, frequent washroom user and snacker on trial is nuts! Lol Especially knowing that person could go into labour at anytime?!

If I wasn't already concerned about having to stand trial, hearing this just set me over the top! Lol

I went home and prayed that God would work some form of miracle on my behalf.

I wrote my letter to the judge explaining my circumstances and faxed it off with a glimmer of hope that my letter would somehow find its way into the hands of an understanding, compassionate judge and be excused.

The thought of spending my last few weeks of pregnancy in a court room, in a case that would probably have me emotionally ripped apart and stressed to the max, having to find care for Nya for so many weeks, not to mention the fear of going into labour in court!!! has had me a little on edge.

However, I knew in the depth of my heart God would make a way. He always looks out for His children and has never failed me when I needed Him the most.

With that being said, I got a call today from the courthouse to say that the judge received and reviewed my letter and has decided to excuse me from Jury Duty. Gloryyyyyyy to God!!!!

What a victory report!! And what a story to share with Sweet Pea one day. Lol

How many mothers can sit down and say to their child 'darling, when I was just 7 weeks away from having you,  mommy got a letter in the mail saying that she had to go to court and stand trial for 5 weeks for a murder case!'.... lol

If in fact it was a murder case; that I will never ever know for sure.  But for the sake of the story, it sounds a lot more interesting! Ha ha ha ha ha

Sweet Pea is Head Down!

This is the life; can it get any better? I'm sitting in my backyard, soaking up some much needed sun in some glorious 21 degree (feels like 25) weather, my two year old is napping and I'm relishing in this moment; me and my precious Sweet Pea.

Today at 12:30pm I had my third OB appointment. I was really anxious to get to my appointment and hear my little ones heart beat once again. I never tire from or take for granted hearing the most amazing sound of 'wosh, wosh, wosh'.

We (Nya and myself) got to my appointment at 12pm. Once we signed in, we were taken almost immediately to a doctors room. Dr Kanee was on staff today; a doctor I am familiar with by name, but don't recall ever meeting in any of my previous appointments during my pregnancy with Nya. We must have waited no longer than 15mins before Dr Kanee came in to see me; now that's the waiting period it should always be! Lol

Ive now gained 21lbs; 2lbs from my last appointment two weeks ago. The nurse was very impressed with my weight gain; she says I'm right on the money with how much I should be gaining each week. A woman should gain around 25lbs by the end of her 9 month pregnancy.

I've never been one who stresses over watching my weight, what I eat or the number on the scale, nor have I or am I going to in my pregnancy.  As long as I continue to eat well and stay fit and baby and I are healthy, gaining the right amount each week, that's number one to me.

Dr Zanee measured my tummy and said that Sweet Pea is perfect size for what she should be at 32 weeks of pregnancy; high five Sweet Pea! Her heart beat was nice and strong; exactly what I wanted to hear.

I expressed my concern to Dr Zanee about some pressure and sharp pains I've been feeling the last few days. Last night was the worst. I honestly thought my water was going to break. I lay in bed, 12am, praying that Sweet Pea stay in. She was applying so much pressure down below and moving around so much that it felt like her arm or leg was going to make its way out at any time. Lol Sorry for the graphic detail. Lol It was quite a scary feeling. Coupled with the pressure and hard movement were random sharp pains. I thought 'oh my goodness! Can this be it! I still have several weeks to go!!!!!'

I tried every position to see if maybe she'd settle. After about 5mins of intense movement and sharp pain, she finally stopped and fell asleep. Fewfh!

When I explained all this to Dr Zanee he responded 'hmmm .....lets take a look to she where and now she's positioned right now'.

After a few squeezes to my tummy he said 'well, she head down! She'll most likely stay like this the rest of your pregancny. Right now she's head down, bum up by your belly button and her arms and legs are facing sideways to the left'.

First off, how cool is it that, that he can tell me exactly how she's positioned in my tummy!!!

I have to admit, when he told me she was head down, a rapid rush of excitement came across me. That's excellent news to hear because she at least knows to start getting ready for labour; however, a wave of concern hit me right after. Was it too soon for her to be head down? Does this mean I could go into labour early?

He reassured me that it is totally normal and typical for a baby at 32 weeks to be head down. She wasn't engaged, so he wasn't concerned.  Thank you Jesus!!

All the pressure, movement and sharp pain I felt last night was more or less as a result to her getting comfortable. Let tell you, her finding her comfort is definitely causing me some major discomfort. Lol Ever since last night, all day I've been feeling like I'm going to have her at any time; whether sitting or walking. I can barley walk at times because it feels like she's right there!!!!; literally! Lol

At least I don't have to worry about her being breech or anything; she has been giving me quite the reassurance that she knows to be head down. Lol

I called Dennard after my appointment to let him know how we made out and update him on our status. He was so cute. When I told him that Sweet Pea was head down, he was like 'oooooh wow! Really!? You have been saying that for a while now that you thought she was down. You were really  right!'. Lol

I could hear a sense of concern in his voice. I reassured him of what the Dr told me and that this was good news; not news that meant we were having our baby early.

His response, which I loved so much was, 'ok, so when are we in the clear? When is it safe for her to come?'.

What I loved about his response was the 'WE' in it. It wasnt 'when are YOU in the clear'....it was 'we' :D To some you may be thinking 'really Devin, so what? What's the big deal with the whole WE thing.', lol. To be honest, it made me smile to hear him say that. Although he might not always express it, he sees this as a joint experience; that it isn't just me going through all of this, but the two of us together.

I think many times men feel disconnected with their baby during pregnancy. Because they cant see the baby or feel the baby like the mother does, they don't see themselves apart of the whole experience until after the baby is born. Now this is normal and common for most men. My husband has had bouts of the same disconnect too at times in both of my pregnancies where he doesn't get as excited about things like a kick or flop like I do. But at the end of the day, whether he expresses the same excitement or interest as I do, I know deep down inside he sees and recognizes that this as a team effort and experience and that we both rely and depend on the other  :)

During our conversation Dennard told me that I need to really take it easy now; to take advantage of this time off of work to rest up and stay off my feet. With Sweet Pea being head down,  she can technically engage herself anytime she wants :/

As of today, I've been banned from outreach. Lol He said he doesn't want me on outreach anymore until after the baby is born.

What in the world am I going to do with myself now? Lol

Anyhow, I'm very pleased with the report from today's OB appointment. I'm super proud of my Sweet  Pea that she is growing and doing so well and that she is just as anxious to meet us as we are her by being head down.