My baby wet my pants!

Well, we got back from San Antonio last night... We had a nice visit with my grand parents, great grand mother, aunts, uncles, cousins, blah blah blah... Well, while we were there, I was sitting in the living room, talking to my aunt... All of a sudden, I felt something very warm in my lap. It was the laughing stalk of the house for a good 30 minutes! It looked like I had done it myself.. LOL

To see a few new pictures, check out our Picture Blog.

Happy 4 Month Birthday Baby Girl!

This hits at home!

Well... I was informed of this today... it happend last night. One of the boys that was in my youth groups a couple years ago was in a car wreck last night. He was driving near his house, and another car avoided a stop sign and pulled out in frount of him. He T-boned the car, and the mother and 15 month old in that car were killed. The following article tells about it. Click Here To Read The Article

Where are you?

Blogger buddies!!! Where are you??? Does anyone read this anymore?

Buddhism...

Well, today my mother in law, Gabby and I went to the final visitation of my brother in law's mother in law. Todd (my brother in law) is married to a Vietmise woman. Her parents are Buddhist. So, the ceremony was a traditional Buddhist deal. We each lit 2 incense and bowed 3 times to the picture of Buddha, and then placed one of the incense in a pot in front of the picture, then we moved on to the picture of the woman who had died, bowed 3 times and then placed the incense in the pot in front of her picture. It was different, but I thought it was a neat concept. They first show their loyalty to Buddha, and then to the passed relative.... Kind of neat, but I still love God, and my faith is still where it has been.... I just thought that I would share my experience with you.

Gabby's Photo Shoot...

Name Changing...

So I ripped this off of Tammy's blog, who ripped it off of Sarah Dawn Brown's blog (congratulations on your engagement, Sarah!!) and thought it would be funny to post here.

Here are my 9 names

1. YOUR ROCK STAR NAME: (first pet and current street name) Moocher Lexham(whoa, weird)

2. YOUR MOVIE STAR NAME: (grandfather/grandmother on your dad's side, your favorite candy) Doris Snikers (Tammy and I have the same first name)

3. YOUR "FLY GIRL/GUY" NAME: (first initial of first name, first two or three letters of your middle name) G-Lou

4. YOUR DETECTIVE NAME: (favorite color, favorite animal) Green Puppy

5. YOUR SOAP OPERA NAME: (middle name, city where you were born) Louise Houston

6. YOUR STAR WARS NAME: (first 3 letters of your last name, last 3 letters of mother's maiden name, first 3 letters of your pet's name) Ricsonjoe

7. JEDI NAME: (middle name spelled backwards, your mom's maiden name spelled backwards) Esiuol Nosredna

8. ‘ADULT’ STAR NAME: (middle name, street you grew up on) Louise Cliveden

9. SUPERHERO NAME: ("The", your favorite color, the automobile you drive) The Green G6

What's new...

Well, it is summer... I guess it has been for a few weeks now. I am so bored not working! Last summer, I worked two jobs to keep myself busy. This summer, I am staying home with the kids. I love them, but it gets boring at the house! We go to the pool almost every day, and Gabby has a new boyfriend. His name is Christopher, and he is 7 months old. The two of them flirt like crazy while us moms talk away. Christian has a lot of friends that go to the pool, so he never wants to leave, but I wont keep Gabby there longer than 2 hours. Yesterday while we were in the pool, Gabby fell asleep, and Christopher (her little bf) got really fussy. We all got out and went and sat in the shade. Chris (my hubby) came and took Gabby home and I stayed with Christian. This little boy brought me a pocket knife and said he found it in the water; that really bothers me, but I am glad he gave it to an adult! I think I may take the kids to the children's museum one of these days... Houston has an awesome children's museum, and I want to take Christian before we move to Canada.

Gabby has been rolling over a lot! It is easy for her to go from tummy to back... When she tries to roll from her back to her tummy, she almost always gets stuck on her arm... It is so cute, but she get s so aggravated! She will be 4 months old on the 16th! She is growing up so fast! she is doing really well on sitting up too! This child wants to do everything! She is such an over achiever!

My dad is moving up north in September, and my mom will follow soon after. Chris and Christian are hoping to go when my dad goes, but we have to have all the paperwork done first! We are all planning to be up there by next summer, but I want to have a job lined up first!

Well, I think that is it for now. We will update again when there is more to update on :)

I'm ganna be an auntie.....

Well, as the title says, I'm going to be an aunt. My brothers girlfriend is preggo... so, late December, early January time, Maurice will be a daddy! And I will be an auntie!!! Gabby will have a cousin close to her age! Maurice really wants a boy, I don't know if Ashley cares, as long as it's a healthy baby. She is about 8 weeks along, and doing well! Maurice is very excited! Well, that's all for now. Just wanted to share the exciting news!

Newish Pictures...

Videos by vMix Member:
tinymommy81

Here are some new things going on...

1. Gabby is destined to be a couch potato.
2. Her favorite show is Caillou!
3. Every morning at 7am, She has her eyes glued to the TV watching Caillou.
4. She is starting to take a liking to Dora.
5. My mother was amazed at by just turning Caillou on, Gabby's fussing ends!
6. My baby brother graduates High School today.
7. I used to change my baby brothers diapers!
8. I got a really awesome end of the year review from my principal.
9. Next year, I will only teach math and science.
10. I will be teaching kindergarten, first grade and second grade.
11. Chris wants to have another baby.
12. Gabby is currently watching Dora the Explorer, and I think Dora is teaching her how to talk.
13. I have been cleaning my garage today, and it is VERY HOT outside.
14. Summer comes very early in Houston.
15. Gabby has more money than I do.
16. I'm hungry.

School's Out For The Summer!

Well, the school year has come to an end. We said our goodbye's today, and had a welcome to second grade party! The kids were so funny today! Two of my boys got into a huge fist fight, and it was quite scary! I had to take them in the hall, and spoke with them quietly, while one of the parents stayed in with the rest of the class. I asked them which of the ten commandments they had broken, and they were quick to tell me: "thou shalt not kill" My kiddos are sooooo smart, even though the mess up some times :)

It was a good party, lots of food, and lots of laughter and fun. I can't really say that I will miss them, mainly because most of them will be in my class again next year. NO they did not fail! I will be teaching K-2 math and science, rather than all of first grade.

Well, I need to deal with Gabby, she wants my attention!

New pictures....

Okay, so I am finally putting new of Gabby on here. I know it has been a while, but I have been so busy it is not even funny. Yesterday was our school "Walk-A-Thon" which is our biggest fund raiser of the year. The kids have been collecting pledges for the walk for the past month... My class, the first graders, walked 4 miles! Now think back to when you were in first grade, that is a lot! I covered those kids in sun block... and then forget about myself, so I have a bit of a burn... but not to bad. I have a few pictures from that as well.

Gabby Pictures
Walk-A-Thon

3 months, already!

Well, today marks three months since Gabriella joind us! I will have pictures posted of her this evening... I just wanted to mark this special day for her! HAPPY THREE MONTHS BABY GIRL!!!!

What do you think?

I created this for MySpace but I wanted to share it to the blogger world too. I am going to make a new one soon... Gabby needs new pictures taken!

Not much to say...

Sorry for not posting much lately, but there is really nothing going on. School will be out in a week and a half, and I can't wait! We have 7.5 school days left!

Gabby is growing very fast... She has out grown a lot of her clothes already; but we have no shortage of clothes that fit. It makes me sad when she grows out of some of the outfits because they are so cute on her! I should have new pictures up soon of her.... She now smiles for the camera.

Well, like I said before, there is nothing to say really, so I will stop talking. I am sure that you don't want to read that all I am doing is saying that I have nothing to say.

Just another Sunday...

Well, today was another day. Sunday is the day that Chris works, and I don't. We have every Saturday together because we are both off on Saturdays. Chris has either MOnday or Wednesday off every week (usually). And I work Monday-Friday. We did not make it to church this morning... Gabby was really into eating, and I did not want to take a fussy hungry baby to church. So, after she was done eating, my mother-in-law and I went to Cici's (Gabby came too) for lunch. Christian was with his mom today. After lunch, we went to Walmart to go make a return. Just as I was about to park, Chris called and asked me to bring him a drink at work. So we did that, then went back to Walmart and did our return; and of course walked around and bought a few things. Then went grocery shopping.... then it was home for the evening. I am about to go cook hamburgers for dinner, because Chris is on his way home. I need to have like two more of me around here so that I can hold the baby, do the laundry and cook, all at the same time :)

Check out MySpace

Birthday, ha ha ha!

It's my birthday, so happy birthday.
Pain and sorrow fill the air,
People dying everywhere.
But it's my birthday, so happy birthday.

I heard this song back in my middle school days.. I thought I would share it with you, since today had to be one of my worst birthdays ever!
1. Gabby puked on me right before I left my parents house for work.
2. I had to go to work.
3. My class was a bunch of little pains.
4. We were finishing up our standardized testing (I hate those things).
5. Lunch was gross!
6. Right after I got to my parents house to pick up Gabby, the weather got really bad, and I ended up staying there for like to hours later than normal. The power went out, right as I was setting up my pump (since Gabby was not hungry) and I did not have my manual pump with me.
7. When I got home, Chris was asleep, Gabby was cranky, and there is nothing to eat!

Okay, I am done complaining now... since you all love lists so much, I thought that I would share that way!

Happy 25th to me.... yeeeeaaaaaaah.

I'm a BIG GIRL now! Come check out a few more pictures of B-E-A-Utiful me! My Pictures
Gabriella

A list... (since all the cool kids are doing it)

***EDITED***

I thought I would be a trend follower... Things you may or may not know about us..... And things you may or may not want to know about us...
1. Chris and I met in the mall at Chick-fil-a and then went ice skating...
2. I met Christian that night too...
3. Chris and I talked every day/night from that point on
4. I went on a mission trip to Mexico soon after we met
5. When I got home from my trip, Chris proposed.
6. Lots of people thought there was to big of an age difference
7. We don't care what other people think
8. We were married on July 23, 2005
9. All my family from Canada came
10. Soon after the wedding, we made it known that we would have an addition to our new family.
11. I had a very EASY pregnancy!
12. I got health insurance half way through the pregnancy.
13. Gabriella Louise was born on February 16, 2006.
14. She was 7lb 1oz and 18.5inches
15. I went back to work 4 weeks after Gabby was born
16. My dad watched Gabby when I am at work
17. Gabby is going to daycare tomorrow because my dad is going to Canada
18. I have 4 weeks of school left... That's it!
19. Christian is the best big brother Gabby could ever have!
20. We plan to be in Canada very very soon!
21. Chris used to cut eye glasses for a living
22. Christian has 3 older siblings (his mom's kids)
23. We do laundry almost everyday around here
24. I drive 45 minutes every morning, and almost 2 hours every evening
25. We can't wait to get out of Texas, for good!
26. I fall into peer pressure very easily!
27. I secretly told people that I never wanted kids of my own, but I really have wanted them all my life.
28. I have really bad athlete's foot... It showed up right after my wedding, and still has not gone away. I think I got it from the foot spa from my pedicure.
29. I am an impulse buyer.
30. Chris is 12 years older than me.
31. I was 16 when Christian was born.
32. I don't remember much from my college classes.
33. I have 3 step children that don't live with us... they are actually Christians brothers and sisters, but not Chris' kids. They look at me as a step mom, sort of.
34. I am afraid of port-a-poties
35. I have a hard time eating breakfast.
36. Chris and I cook a lot of chicken.
37. I teach a computer class after school, and most of the kids are from a public school. It is very different from my perfect little first graders!
38. My favorite TV show is 7th Hevean... but this is the last session! :(
39. Gabby's left ear has the same little elf point that mine does!
40. Chris and I never get to have 'dates' anymore.

****04/24/2006**** ****04/27/2006****

This that and the other....

Well, I must say that I miss being a frequent blogger. (They should come up with frequent blogger miles, hehe). The only reason I have time right now to blog is because the food is not here yet for lunch, and my kiddo's are with the Science lab teacher. Anyway, back on topic.... So my dad is taking a trip up to Canada. He leave on Tuesday, which means nobody to watch Gabby. Great... now I have to find a daycare. I am glad that he is going to Canada, because he is checking out the properties that they are looking at, and the house that Chris and I are looking at... and actually we found another one we like. So, I could put her in daycare for $100 a week... but that is a lot of money! Well, I think the food is here, so I will write more later. Please be praying for us as we make a choice about daycare!

Happy Easter everyone... come check out my new pictures! Easter Pictures
Gabriella

5 1/2 weeks left!

I can't believe how fast the school year is flying by! It seems like just yesterday this school year began! Now, we have a little over 5 weeks left. My kids have finished their math book, will finish their spelling book and science book next week, and the othe subjects are not far behind. If I could, I will be moving them into our second grade books, but for some reason, I can't. I am however pulling things from the net to use with them until the end of school. This means a lot more photo copies, and a lot more time devoted to lesson plans... so blogger world, my entries to this my come a lot less often. I will try to keep up with the pictures... but I don't think there are a whole lot of people the read this anyway :)

Oh, and also, I have taken a second job... it is sort of just extra ours with the school, but it is contract labor. I am teaching an after school computer class. So, I will be picking up Gabby an hour later than I had been.

Well, that is all for this time. Hope all are well.

As requested, Top 10 things I didn't know...

About being a mommy!

Well, since it was requested, I figured I could handle this post... So here it goes...

10. How much money you spend on diapers.
9. How much milk a baby can consume.
8. How much your nipples hurt after nursing (sorry boys).
7. How many different cries she has, and how each one has a different meaning.
6. How she can feel when I am upset.
5. How crazy I go in the baby section of any store.
4. How much computer time I loose (I don't mind though!)
3. How much other people just want to hold her (people I don't even know!)
2. How different she is to me compared to all the children I have ever tended.
1. How much I miss her while I am at work!! (I cry almost every day!)

I am sure as the days go by, the list will get longer, but there is something to get you started!

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Well, sorry that I have not been keeping up with the blog, but I have had a lot going on! We are trying to get our plans for moving up north in order, and so my internet time has been simi devoted to that. Plus, having a 6 week old really drains you! She is a super great baby, but it is so hard to put her down! Anyway, there are a few new pictures on the photo's page... Enjoy! New Pictures

From the mouths of babes...

Well, it is easy to say that I would rather be home with Gabby everyday, than working... but I must say, it is not as bad as I thought it was going to be. Yesterday was probably the best school day I have ever had with this class. The kids were so good, and so cute. Some of the highlights (in quote form) are listed below, but in no particular order, whatsoever.

"Mrs. Richards, how old are you?" (25) "Man, you are so young! My mommy and daddy are way older than you!"

"Mrs. Richards, does your daughter know how to talk yet?"

"Mrs. Richards, where do you sleep, I have never seen your bedroom here at school."

"Can we have recess all day long tomorrow?"

"Mrs. Richards, can you hang upside down on the monkey bars?" (I did)

As you can see, I have some really interesting students! They keep me smiling, and they keep me busy, so my time away from Gabriella is hard, but not as hard as I thought it would be. Playing with my first graders really helps.

2 days in...

Well, I HATE WORKING! I miss Gabby all day, and I can't concentrate on teaching! The throbbing of my boobies does not help either, sorry boys. I only have 30 minutes a day that I can spend pumping. It is half way through the day, but still not good enough! I am not sure how I am going to make it through 9 weeks of only seeing her for about an hour in the morning, and a few hours at night, but I guess I just have to deal with it. I love teaching, but I love Gabby a lot more! Only time will tell... Work is depressing now... Oh, to be a stay at home mommy!

In just a few hours, I will be getting ready for work... I am not sure if I am happy, or not... I am not ready to be away from Gabby, but I do miss my class. I will let y'all know how my first day back goes. Until then, you can check out some new pictures of Gabriella! Gabriella Pictures

1 more day...

Well, I have one more day left with Gabby before I have to go back to work. I can't believe she is already past the one month mark! Before we know it, she will be on her way to college. I don't have much to report on, Gabby is doing great. Her one month check up went really well, and her doctor says she is growing well. She is now 8lb 4oz and 21 inches long; so she has gained 1lb 3oz and has grown 2.5 inches. He said that she is growing on target, and that she is very healthy.... Now I just have to stop spoiling her on nursing. He told me that I need to limit nursing her to 15 minutes on each side, and then bottle feed her if she is still hungry... He said if she nurses too long, she will use me as a pacifier. Thank, God I have a pump now... And one that actually works! The one that I had gotten work before she was able to nurse, but now that she is nursing regularly, it does not get anything out of me.

My dad is excited about getting to keep her during the week, but he has also been helping me research ways for me to be a stay at home mom. He found an ad in the paper today that is for teachers to work from home, so I will be sending in my resume... It can't hurt. While the school has offered me a pretty good deal for next year, I would much rather be at home with the kids.

Well, I think that is all I have to report right now... I hope all is well with all.

What's New?

Well, we live a busy life around the house here, and I must say I am kind of scared to go back to work. Gabby and I spend most of the day together... She does a lot of eating, and I do a lot of holding her. She is such a good baby, but the child is already trying to spend most of the daytime awake. Next Monday I am scheduled to go back to work. My dad will be taking care of Gabby most of the week. Chris will keep her on days that he does not work. I don't want to go back to work, because I love having the whole day with Gabby, but we need me to work, so I will. I am looking forward to the summer, because I get to have all day with her again! Thank goodness for summer vacation! Well, I would write more, but Gabby's 5 minute nap seems to be over! Till next time.

Come check me out! Mommy put new pictures of me for you to see!
Gabriella

Do we look alike...
Gabriella

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TAMBER LYNN CRAIG!!!!!!
Gabriella

Check out a few new pictures...
Gabriella

Okay... new pictures... well they are about a week old, but I just got them up on here. Let me know what you think. New Pictures
Gabriella

Busy life...

I know it has been a few days since I wrote. I have been keeping very busy, you know with a newborn and all. I also have my cousin Jennifer here. She came in last Wednesday and is staying until this Friday. The airline lost her bag, and still has not found it. As of midnight tonight, they will be paying her up to $1,200 for the value contained in her bag. She does not think that will cover it all though. She had gifts for Gabby, and a bunch of her expensive clothes and shoes, and a $200 hair straighter. So, besides all of that, things have been calm around here. Gabby is a great baby! She wakes up to eat and poop, and then goes back to sleep. My mom is very much in love with her, and I have nick named her the baby hog! I really have to fight to hold my own baby when I am at my parents house.

I should be going, Gabby sounds like she is about to wake up to eat. I hope everyone is well!

One week old!

Well, my little bundle of joy is already a week old! I can't believe how fast the time has been going by! She is such a sweet baby, only cries when I don't start feeding her on time. She is a lot like her daddy in that she is very gassy! She actually just fell asleep in my arms.... And she is still passing gas!
We have been blessed with a beautiful baby girl, to love, adore and cherish forever! God is so awesome to entrust Chris and me with a precious gift like this. We plan to do all we can to bring her up in the faith.
There is nothing greater than the feeling of a baby breathing against your chest! Added to that, the fact that the baby belongs to you, and you have the great responsibility of keeping that breath in the child.
Ok, I am done babbling now... I just wanted to share the joys I have experienced in being a new mommy!

No touchy my baby! We have pictures... not a whole lot... but we have pictures! Gabriella's Pictures

A few pictures

Ok... I am still in the hospital, and typing on a floating flat screen so this will be short. Click on the link below to see pictures my parents took when they visited last night. Gabriella was about 12 hours old.

Gabriella's 1st day

Wont be home till Saturday...

I just wanted to let everyone know that mommy and baby are healthy and well. Gabriella was born today (Thursday, February 16) at 8:15am. She weighed 7lb 1oz and she was 18 1/2 inches long. Mommy is glad she got the epidural, it made things go much smoother! I need to be going... it is hard to type on a floating flat screen. Thank you for playing the quessing game, but you all lost.

Gwyn

Here's the deal...

Ok, so I want everyone to predict when the baby is coming (date and time). I also want you to tell if you think it is a boy or a girl. And just for grins, tell me how big the baby will be. Reply to this blog with your prediction, and we shall see who wins! (Original due date was March 2nd, however the doctor said a few weeks ago that she was thinking sometime in mid February.)

Is it weird that the one thing I have craved this pregnancy is gummy bears?

Gummy Bears

You may be smooshie and taste unnatural, but you're so darn cute.

What Kind of Candy Are You?

Two baby showers... Lots of stuff!

Well, I did not even think about posting this, but since Kayla asked... Here goes...

After two showers, one at work and one with family and friends, so far I have:

* A gazillion onesies
* A bazillion sleepers
* Loads of receiving blankets
* 4 bath towels with wash cloths
* A bath robe and slippers, which also came with wash cloths
* 6 bottles of baby shampoo
* 6 bottles of baby lotion
* 6 bottles of baby oil gel (lavender)
* 6 bottles of baby wash
* 6 tubes of baby balmex
* 1 package of diapers
* baby bath tub
* bath toys
* bath toy net
* 2 baby books
* full Toronto Maple Leafs Outfit (onesies, booties, hat)
* full Toronto Argonauts Outfit (onesies, booties, hat)
* a few toys
* 2 hand made blankets (my mom made one, and a lady at my church made the other)
* $$$$$$$ (being used to buy the Travel System)
* a bunch of baby toiletries
* 1 orthodontic pacifier
* 1 package of invisible outlet plugs
* a travel swing
* a nursing pillow

I'm sure I forget something. And I had a bunch of people calling me soon after the shower was over, asking what I still needed, and telling me they were sorry they had missed it. This baby will be set (if the cat will stay out of the crib!)

37 week preggo, and the Doctor say...

Well, I have to say, my experience at the doctor today was not like any other. Those of you who have had kids can relate... She tested to see how dilated I am, it was uncomfortable! Not only how it felt, but also because she had a med student and the MA in there. I can understand the Med Student, because they have to learn somehow, but the MA has never stayed in there when I was with the doctor. So, yea, it was weird. Ok, so the moment you have all been waiting for.... I am only 2cm dilated, however, she seems to think this baby will be here between now and next Wednesday. She said if she does not see me in Labor and Delivery before Wednesday, the 15th, she will see me in her office that day. Good times! I now know where L&D is, so Chris and I don't have to ask questions when we get there, we can just go... And my doctor rocks! She said that the hospital will call her the minute I am admitted! No matter what time of day and what she is doing, she will be on her way! This is the kind of doctor I want to have!

On another note, my long term sub spent the day in the classroom with me and the class today. I let her teach a couple things to get a feel for the group, and she loved it! She will be awesome with them, and I am so glad the respected her right away. Yeah!

Well, I think that is it for today. Hope all is well with all of you.

Been busy...

Sorry I have not posted, but Tammy, you have a lot of room to talk ;)

I have an appointment tomorrow afternoon, so when I get home from that, I will post what is going on. I am trying to get all my lesson plans done at least through my maternity leave, that way I don't have to make trips to the school just to write plans for the sub. I have been bringing work home every night for the past week. I still have a lot more to do, so pray for me! Well, I need to get to bed. Till next time...

Sorry Tammy, not yet...

As much as I wish that Tammy's prediction was correct, I am here to report that we still have no baby... I have not even had a false labor visit to the hospital. I see the doctor again on Wednesday and I can tell y'all more then. I plan to ask her what is going on. I figured she would tell me without having to ask if I was dilated or anything like that. I don't feel like calling, I am just weird like that, so y'all can waite till Wednesday, unless baby comes before then. I am exactly 4 weeks away from the original due date, and 2 weeks away from the current due date, so we shall see. My right ankle is soooooooooooo swollen, it feels like it may explode any minute now, and I taught from my desk most of the day! I am trying to limit my standing as much as possible... wrong profession! Well, I guess that is about it for now. Hope everyone is doing well!

Quite the doctors appointment!

*Okay, just fair warning... There is a bit of girly content in this post*

So... it was a loooooooooong day at work. I do not like Tuesdays! My kids were pretty good most of the day. They did their work and kept quiet when I needed that time to grade and score for the progress reports. The one thing that really got on my nerves was all the ladies I work with. They keep saying things like "haven't you had that baby yet?" Well, NO! If I had, do you really think I would be here? They mean well, I know, but I can't stand stupid comments like that! I want the baby to be born, because I want to go on leave! I want my break from that place! My body is swelling up like a marshmellow! I feel huge! I am tired, moody, restless, and, well you ladies who have kids know! So, anyway, once the day was over at work, I made my way to the doctor. It is about a 30 minute drive at the time of day I was going... Well, I made it there just in time! Since I am nearing the end of this joyful experience, I had my suspicions that she would make me drop my pants, but I had no clue really. Well, I got into the room, and the MA took my BP, and then she gave me a paper blanket, and said strip from the waist down. Imagine my reaction "I HAVE TO STRIP!" So, anyway, long story short, my doctor now knows me a bit better. She did not say anything about anything... So I hope that means there is nothing wrong. I go back next Wednesday, and I have no idea what to expect at that appointment either.... Ok, well I am going to sign off. We just bought a new printer, and Chris wants to play. Good night.

Another day...

Ah, Sunday! Well, Christian and I went to check out a new church today. It was kind of neat how another Episcopal church can be so different. We really liked it! One of the things that I really liked is that one of my friends that I grew up with at church is now the assistant preacher at this church. It was neat to see him, and see how he is doing. Also, Christian like it because he can be an acolyte. At my church (the one that I grew up at, you have to be in 7th grade-12 grade). Chris was not able to go with us, he had to work today, but I have a feeling he will like it. It is a small church, with a lot to offer. The head priest is a woman, and very sweet! She blessed the baby (well, my tummy). So, I think we will keep going there for a while, and see how it turns out. Brad had an awesome sermon today about evil spirits, and things that are supernatural. Christian was practically on the edge of his seat :)

The baby is doing well, as far as I can tell. I was a bit worried last night because I woke up and did not feel any movement. I ran to the kitchen to get some orange juice to wake him/her up. Chris told me that I needed to stop worrying so much... I just want him/her to be okay! I was very scared!

Well, that is all for now. I hope everyone is well!

Just a quick update...

Well... I am going to make this quick, because I really should try and get some sleep...

1. No matter how early I go to bed, I never feel like I get any rest anymore!
2. I am 35 weeks along, however, the doc is suspecting an early baby because s/he has been head down for over 4 weeks now!
3. The school has found a sub for me, she will be coming to meet the kids on Monday.
4. After a lot of thought and prayer, I don't think that I am going to apply for the youth pastor job... While I know most of the kids, and they confide in me, I am not sure that I would be ready for sure a large youth group, on my own.
5. Tomorrow is a field trip day! We are going to the children's museum!
6. Christian has a mild case of scoliosis... Nothing to be alarmed about, but the doctors are keeping an eye on it.
7. I have two baby showers scheduled. One is being given by my mother and my best friends mom; the other is being given by the ladies I work with.
8. I can't find my hips.
9. I can't see my toes when standing.
10. I am ready to go on leave.

Okay, I need to go to bed now... How everyone is well!

What to do...

Well, today was a very busy day! I am kind of unsure of where to start. This morning, Chris had to be at work at 10:30, and Christian and I went to church on my parents side of town. It was raining all day, and that made it harder to drive. We left an hour before church started so that we would not be late. The service was so awesome! The new preacher is great! After church, everyone stayed for soup and chili and then we had our annual parish meeting. This lasted about two and half hours. The new preacher has so many awesome ideas for the church. One of the things that he pointed out is that the youth are very important, and that ministering to the youth of the church is a big part of evangelism. He also noted that he has asked Beccy (our full time youth/children's pastor) to stand as only the children's pastor, leaving an opening for youth minister. I could not tell you how many people came up to me and asked me if I planned to apply for that role. Everyone knows that I have been trying to find a new job, and everyone also knows that I absolutely love the youth of my church! So, here I am, caught in the middle of should I apply, is this what God wants me to do? So, I ask that all of you who read this blog, please say an extra prayer for me. I am going to be making this decision a big part of my devotions with God, as I ask His guidance in this.

The joys of parenting...

So it has been over a year now since Chris and Christian came into my life. The day Chris introduced me to his son (Christian) I immediately wanted to be a part of their lives. Seeing the love and bond that they share gave me assurance that raising a family with Chris would be just fine! Now as we approach the birth of our first child together, he is getting very nervous! Everyone asks if I am getting nervous, and I say "no, I don't need to be, Chris is nervous enough for the both of us :)

Today I took the day off from work, and took Christian to see the pediactric surgeon. After an hour in the waiting room, the doctor came to speak with me. She told me that basically his left side is growing faster than the right and that it is very normal in boys. She said that not everyone notices it, and it does not show this much in all boys, and most are inverted. She wants to see him again in 6 months to make sure that nothing has gotten worse. Thank you to everyone who has been praying for him. We appreciate it a lot!

In other news, my mom lost her job last weekend, though her last day is tomorrow. I was going to ask that y'all pray that she could find a new job fast, but she already did! I am so proud of her! And, she will be making the same amount of money, and working less hours! YEAH!

My last doctors appointment went great! It took about 5 minutes... She listened to the babies heart, measured my belly, and said "okay see you in a week!" I think it is so funny how little they do. Well, we are looking at Valentine's Day as a possible due date... though I think it will be the 20th :) We shall see!

In the Richards' Family News...

Updates and some news coming soon :)

Hey y'all... Tammy put this on her blog and I thought it was a neat idea... so here goes...


1. Time of starting: 5:40 p.m.
2. Were you named after anyone? my middle name is the same as my mother, grandmother, great grandmother...
3. Do you wish on stars? shooting stars
4. When did you last ry? hmmmm, I don't remember
5. Do you like your hand writing? sometimes
6. What is your favourite meat? deer
7. What is the most embarrassing CD on your shelf? Mary KAte and Ashley Olson "Brother For Sale"
8. If you were another person, would YOU be friends with you? of course, I am an amazing person!
9. Are you a daredevil? depends on my mood
10. Have you ever told a secret you swore not to tell? Once, but it was for her own good!
11. How do you release anger? take it out on my journal!
12. Where is your second home? My parents house
13. Do you trust others easily? no
14. What was your favourite toy as a child? legos
15. What class in school do you think is pointless? Life Management Skills (my friend Becky and I were the only 2 people in the class that actually tried to learn something. Everyone else was in there for a blow off class)
16. Do you use sarcasm a lot? all the time
17. Have you ever been in a mosh pit? no
18. What do you look for in a guy/girl? my husband :)
19. Would you do a bungee jump? I've done it before, but I don't think I would do it again
20. Do you untie your shoes when you take them off? half the time I dont even tie them....
21. What's your favourite ice cream flavour? pepperment
22. What are your favourite colours? green
23. What is your least favourite thing? whinning! (and I teach 1st grade!)
24. How many people do u have a crush on right now? 1 (hubby)
25. What do you miss most right now? quiet
26. What colour underwear are you wearing? yellow
27. What are you listening to right now? Christian whinning about me taking to long on the computer
28. If you were a crayon, what colour would you be? yellow
29. What is the weather like right now? raining and muggy
30. Last person you talked to on the phone? the lady at the hospital, setting up appointments for Christian to see the specialists
31. The first thing you notice about the opposite sex? how tall they are
32. Do you like the person who sent you this? Well, nobody sent it to me, I copied it off of Tammy's blog, so talking about her... hmm, well I love her to bits, but she needs to blog more, email me more, and all that jazz!
33. What good qualities does the person who sent this have? Full of energy, fun loving, always (almost always) smiling, true friend, loyal, worthy of an amazing man who will one day realize it and kick himself in the butt for taking so long! ok, I'm done...
34. Favourite drink? water (yes, I said water!)
35. Favourite alcoholic drink? a glass of red wine with my Medium Rare Steak at Outback Steakhouse
36. Natural hair colour? dirt blond/light brown
37. Eye colour? brown
38. Wear contacts? almost regularly
39. Siblings? 2 brothers: Maurice who will be 27 next Wednesday, and Charlie, who just turned 18... AHHHHHH
40. Favourite month? Anything that is not a Texas summer month, I think that leaves December-February :)
41. Favourite food? PB&J
42. Last movie you watched? Rugrats in Paris (last night with Christian)
43. Favourite day of the year? The day the baby is born (not sure yet the exact date, I will let you know)
44. Have you ever been too shy to ask someone out? No, I am quite blunt!
46. Summer or winter? winter!
47. Hugs or kisses? depends, who am I hugging or kissing?
48. Do you want your friends to write back? If they want to
49. Who is most likely to respond? Someone who reads this blog
51. What book/magazine are you reading at the moment? Parenting Magazine
52. Time of finishing: 5:58 p.m.

I'm a Star!

So yesterday at work, we handed out report cards to the students. Before handing them out, we were to have a copy of them in the files in the office. I got all of that done in the morning before the kids got their, and had the report cards in their daily folders when they returned from Science Lab. I think it is so funny how something so easy can confuse someone. Our second grade teacher did not understand the report card process, and had to redo hers 3 times. From what I understand, when she taught in New York, she submitted her computer grade book, and the school made the report cards. I like the old fashion way myself, then I know it is done the way I want it done! When I was about to leave. my principal came to me and said "YOU ARE A STAR!" and she gave me a sticker!

My classroom is looking awesome... I guess you could call what I have done to it nesting. I have cleaned organized and rearranged a lot in there. (no I did not move anything heavy). It is almost ready for the sub to take over when I go on my leave.

Today Katie (my best friend from church since I was little) and I went to a "Baby Shower" at BabiesRus. It was basically I thing where you could get ideas for what to do at the baby shower. They had these really cute ideas... one was a rose made out of baby socks, soooo cute! Another was a bunch of diapers rolled up and made to look like a layer cake. They were so cute! I entered into a bunch of raffles, and bought a few things that I really needed (wont go into detail). Oh, and I also found out that one of the things I registered for has been recalled! YIKES! So, that will come off the registry!

Well, that is all for now. Hope all is well!

Goodness...

Well, I thought that I had posted more recently. A lot has been going on! We spent Saturday at the hospital with Christian... They X-rayed his whole body practically! The doctors there could not figure out the problem, they noted that his right leg is longer than the other. Everyone has one leg longer than the other, but it is more than it should be. We have a referral to see a pediactric orthopedic and a pediactric surgeon. Christian got a bit worried when they told us that we going to see a surgeon, but he cheered up when they told him about the game room they have at the hospital.

Sunday, Christian went to the beach with his friend. Chris and I went to my parents house, because my grandparents were in town. We spent a couple hours over there, visiting with them, but that usually does not last long, because grandads memory is fading. Mimi brought us a bunch of baby stuff, and told me there was still more to come.

Monday, I had to go to work :( Although, it was not all that bad. The kids are great, but being pregnant, I find the worst in every situation. They hardly ever get recess anymore! I am such a mean teacher! We found out that Chris is getting a promotion, and a raise!!! And his insurance is finally kicking in... So, we will have health coverage for Christian and the baby!

Tuesday... about the same as Monday... minus the stuff about Chris

And today! Today was wonderful! I love Wednesdays because it is chapel day at school. The kids get to school around 8. Chapel starts at 8:15 and ends around 8:45. Class starts around 9am. We do Math from 9-10am... I love math, and so do the kids! Today we got to crawl on the floor and measure the room with a yard stick! I must have looked sooooooo funny! At 10, my class goes to Music until 10:45. Then 10:45-11:15, they have lunch (I know, very early!) From 11:15-12:05 they have computer class; and then 12:05-12:30 they have library. So finally, at 12:30, I get some time to teach! We don't do every subject on Wednesday (duh statement) We got all our work done, and then some, so I gave them some time to do a color page... One of my students threw an eraser at another, and then another student called another names, and another jumped out of her seat for no reason... Those students got to write the class rules for me! I AM SUCH A MEAN TEACHER!!!

Weirdness...

So yesterday, Chris noticed that Christian's chest and collar bone area on the left side of his body is very swollen, and the is a hard spot on his chest. It does not hurt him at all, but it worries us a great deal! One of Christian's friends mom is a paramedic, and she checked it out today. She said that she has never seen anything like it, and it is odd. Because it is so close to the heart, she recommends that we take him to the doctor ASAP. We still don't have health insurance for him, but we are working on getting it. This is going to set us back even more than we already are, but his health is more important! Please pray for this situation, that it wont be anything to serious!

The baby has been hurting me lately! S/he stretches in ways that s/he does not fit, and it hurts! Chris had a talk with her/him last night and told her/him that mommy needed her rest, and that baby needed to settle down. Would you believe that the child settled down!!! It has to be a girl, because only a girl would be scared enough to listen to daddy that quick... (I did!)

Good times at the doctor...

Had another appointment today. I am going every two weeks now. Today, the doctor told me that the baby's head is down and she expects no more than 6 more weeks. I have gained more weight than I should, but it is all baby (scary thought). My ankles are so swollen, and my feet hurt like crazy. My belly is so huge... Everyone at work thinks I will have this baby before February. My dad is guessing February 15th... I hope he is right! You see, Chris and I got married exactly 5 years to the day, after my grandfather passed away. I did not know that, until at our rehearsal dinner, but we ended up having a moment of silence at the wedding in his memory. So, anyway, my grandfathers birthday was February 15. My dad thinks it only seems right.

Well, that is about it for today. Not a whole lot to report. I was so tired at work today, I wanted to take a nap. This is why I should not take 2 weeks off! Well, I'm outa here.

New Picture

Ok, here is a picture of me 31 weeks pregnant... it is also now my profile picture... Click on the the link to check it out a bit bigger.

Preggo Picture

And for Christmas photo's, you can check out my msn blog here is the website:

My Space on MSN

63 days to go...

Wow, only 63 days until our due date... I am expecting him/her to come a bit early... My mother never had a child on time, nor did Chris' mom... We were all early! Impatience runs on both sides of the family... But who knows.. Maybe this baby will just be stubborn. There is lots of movement down there, and sometimes the baby moves so much it hurts. Right now, it feels like s/he is stretched out head to toe, across my tummy... Picture toes on one side and head on the other... I hope you get what I mean. I have to go back to work on Monday :( I don't want to... I have enjoyed being lazy! But I am only going back until baby is born, then I am taking a few weeks off... Just until I am physically ready to go back... I only get 2 weeks of paid leave! Stupid me had to go and buy a car back in February, and now we have 2 car notes, and a house note... So there is no stay at home mommy life style for me :(

We did well this Christmas! Christian really had a great one! My parents went crazy! We also got a bunch of stuff for the baby! We got the high chair that we wanted, and a bunch of clothes and receiving blankets. We got a Peter Rabbit Photo Album (which holds the ultrasound photo's) we got a baby book, which I have already started working on, and a silver baby grooming set (which I think is supposed to be for show). Lots of stuff! Oh, and my parents are buying us a crib! They are so excited to be grandparents, it is so cute! Those if you who have met my dad... Picture him all giddy.... It is such an awesome sight!

Well, I guess that is about it. Hope you have a great day!

This, that and the other...

Well, it has been an interesting couple of days :) I don't like big cities... I hate living in a big city... And I don't understand why people are so rude in big cities! I can't wait until we move up north, and into a small town where I will feel it is safe to raise my family! During the hustle and bustle of last minute Christmas shopping, somehow, I managed to misplace 4 checks from my check book... Now they could not just fall out, they have to be pulled out. So how could this happen... I have no answer... All I know is that they are not there. I contacted the bank as soon as I noticed the missing checks. They froze my account, but my check card will still work. They are just changing the account number and will transfer our check cards to the new number. I am so glad that they have 24 hour phone reps!

Soon after I got the missing checks reported, I received a phone call from Lincoln Grant Services. Anyone ever heard of them? They told me that because I was a tax paying citizen in good standing with my state and country, I had qualified and was selected for an $8,000 grant that I never have to pay back. The rep that I spoke with was named Austin David, and he sounded like he was from the middle east. He was telling me all about how I would get no less than $8,000 from this grant and maybe even more. All I had to do was give them my bank account number, and they would deposit the money into my account, after they charged me $268. Well, if you think I was stupid enough to give them bank info, you are underminding me way to much! I am not an airhead. I called my dad to tell him all about it... He said "I hope you told them to go to Hell!" Anytime it sounds to good to be true, it usually is... And when they want money from you in order to get the money they are saying you get... It is just a way for them to get money!

On a happier note, I went to dinner with my brother in law, his wife and a bunch of her family tonight. Chris had to work... As usual. It was fun... I met my sister in laws sister... She was so funny the whole time! We were talking about how animals get jealous of babies, and she was making suggestions on how to make the pets feel like it is not a huge change, and they will still get the attention that they have gotten used too.

Now, I hope you learned something from this long winded blog... 1)Watch your check book! Especially at this time of year! 2)Don't buy into these stupid phone calls from bogus companies! 3)Enjoy time with the inlaws... You learn a lot about your spouse!

Ultrasound Photo's!

Ok everyone... I know you have wanted to see proof that I really am pregnant. And if the big belly photo's were not enough, here are some ultrasound photo's to make you believe me! Here you see our little bundle of joy praying :) You can see more photo's on our photo blog... Watching Baby Grow

Baby is weighing about 3.5 pounds and the doc says that everything seems to be in place! So, we are still excited.... Only 10 weeks to go!

Pictures of my class....

Well... I have been taking pictures of the kids in my class... and I wanted to share them... check them out if you like... My First Graders

29 Weeks... Yikes... this baby will be here soon!

Let's just say that as of 12 noon tomorrow (Central) I will have 2 weeks away from my wonderful first graders! I love them, but boy am I ready for a break from them!Tomorrow is a half day of school, and we will be spending most of the day having our Christmas party!

SO, I was just watching the news... and an elderly lady was murdered tonight, in the neighborhood right by the school that I work. She was hacked with a hatchet! Do I want to go to work tomorrow? NO! If Chris hears this news report (which I am sure he will) he is not going to want me to leave home in the morning!

Well, I am going to lay down... this baby is making me so tired.... and he/she is not even outside of me yet!

How your baby's growing Your baby now weighs about 2 1/2 pounds and is a tad over 15 inches long from head to heel. His muscles and lungs are continuing to mature, and his head is growing bigger to accommodate his brain — which is busy developing billions of neurons. With this rapid growth, it's no surprise that your baby's nutritional needs reach their peak during this trimester. To keep yourself and him well nourished, you'll need plenty of protein, vitamin C, folic acid, iron, and calcium. (About 200 milligrams of calcium is deposited in your baby's skeleton — which is now hardening — every day.)

° Note: Experts say every baby develops differently — even in utero. This developmental information is designed to give you a general idea of how your baby grows in your womb.

How your life's changing You should be able to feel your baby's movements strongly now. Pay attention to the kicks and nudges, and let your practitioner know if you ever notice a decrease in activity. She may ask you to do fetal kick counts to make sure everything's okay.

Some old friends — heartburn and constipation — may take center stage again. The pregnancy hormone progesterone relaxes smooth muscle tissue throughout your body, including your gastrointestinal tract. This relaxation, coupled with the crowding in your abdomen, slows your digestive process, which can cause gas, especially after a big meal. Another problem you can credit to your growing uterus (and constipation) is hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids — which are simply swollen blood vessels in your rectal area — are very common during pregnancy and usually clear up soon after delivery. If they're itchy or painful, try soaking in a sitz bath and applying a hot pad or cold compresses medicated with a little witch hazel to the affected area. Also avoid sitting or standing for long stretches. Talk with your practitioner before using any over-the counter remedies during pregnancy, and let her know if you have any rectal bleeding. To prevent constipation, eat a high-fiber diet, drink plenty of water, and get some regular exercise.

A small number of women get something called "supine hypotensive syndrome" during pregnancy. When they lie on their backs, they get a change in heart rate and blood pressure that makes them feel dizzy until they change position. You might note that you get dizzy if you stand up too quickly, too. To avoid getting the spins, move slowly as you go from lying down to sitting and then standing.

Pictures!

Here is the happy soon to be big brother! I could not help but put this one on here! Follow the link to the most recent photo's!
Watching Baby Grow

A beautiful sound...

Well, I am officially in love again! I am in love with the being growing inside of me. As Chris and I spent the morning at the doctor’s office, we learned a lot about our upcoming gift from God. It is so amazing to think about how blessed we are! The doctor went through everything that we have missed, as we have not seen a doctor for prenatal care until now. She measured my tummy, and aid that everything seems to be right on track. Then, we got to hear our baby! What a beautiful sound! And folks, there is only one beat. So, unless there is another baby in there that is hiding its heart beat, we are only having one baby! This is good news, as we are still trying to figure out how to pay everything. But, God is good! We have insurance, and only have to pay 20%. Please do keep praying for us financially. We have to come up with $1,410 within the next month. If we did not have 2 car payments, a house payment, other bills, and a nine year old little boy, this would not be an issue. Thank you everyone who has been praying for us. We love you!

I HAVE MY INSURANCE!!!!

I am getting an ultrasound next Tuesday! I have an appointment on Thursday morning at 8:30am; please pray that all goes well! I am not looking forward to the blood work. I just wanted to share the good news! :)

Babies are so cute!

So, I got to hold a baby at church today... He was only a week and a half old! He was sooooooooo cute! Everyone told me it was good practice and blah blah blah... I was just excited to get to hold a cue little baby!

Oh, and we got our Christmas tree last night, YEAH! We decorated today some, but still have some work to do. Our house will soon be a Christmas gallery. Well, I need to get to bed. Hope all is well out there.

27 weeks.... May I have a nap?

Ok, so now I have a doctor, and the insurance company is still wishy washy.... I have another number to try tomorrow morning. They need to update their website! So, the doctors office says that I just have to sign a form stating that I will go along with what they say from here now until delivery. I can handle that, I HAVE A DOCTOR! I get to see an ultrasound! I am about to cry, because I have wanted to see my baby so bad for so long!

I was wondering why my leg kept cramping at night, it hurts sooooo bad! And the baby has been moving a lot more lately.... The reason for that and more are found below!

27 Weeks!!!!
How your baby's growing: Your baby is really starting to fill up your uterus. This week he weighs almost 2 pounds and is about 14.4 inches long with his legs extended. He can now open and close his eyes, and he sleeps and wakes at regular intervals. He may suck his fingers, and although his lungs are still immature, they would be capable of functioning — with assistance — if he were to be born prematurely. Chalk up any rhythmic movement you may be feeling to a case of baby hiccups, which may be common from now on. Each episode usually lasts only a few moments, and isn't bothersome to him, so enjoy the tickle. With more brain tissue developing, your baby's brain is very active now. Wonder what he's thinking?

How your life's changing: Your body is gearing up for the final lap, so you may start noticing some new symptoms. Along with an aching back, for example, you may find that your leg muscles cramp up now and then. They're carrying extra weight, after all, and your uterus is putting extra demands on your circulation. (As your uterus expands, it puts pressure on the blood vessels that return blood from your legs to your heart and on the nerves leading from your trunk to your legs.) Unfortunately, the cramps are likely to get worse as your pregnancy progresses. Leg cramps are more common at night but can also happen during the day. Flexing your foot (by pointing your toes forward and then flexing them back toward your shins) stretches the calf and should give you some relief. Walking for a few minutes or massaging your calf sometimes helps, too.

It may be the furthest thing from your mind right now, but it's not too soon to think about family planning. You'll want to have made some decisions before your baby arrives. And in some states, if you're considering a tubal ligation during your hospital stay, laws require that you sign a consent form at least a month before delivery day. (You can still change your mind later.)

If not one thing, another!

Well... So I took Charlie (my little brother) to the doctor today. My parents are in Canada, and he needed a ride. I got to see my old pediatritian! He was so excited that I was having a baby! He ran around the office telling everyone that his grand-patient was in my tummy! It was so cute! Anyway, for those of you who don't know, I have been having trouble finding a doctor that will see me, since I am already 26 weeks, nearly 27 weeks pregnant. Dr. Kavin said, "here is the name of the best OBGyn in the hospital! Give her a call and tell her I sent you! So, now we have a doctor.... but... still no insurance card. I tried calling the insurance company, and the phone number for my plan tells me all the time that they are closed, but their office hours are 7am-9pm! I called the number for one of the other plans and spoke to a rep. She is checking to the problem for me! UG! I hope this is fixed soon!

Saw it on Sarah's blog....

Yesterday a character from Charlie Brown, today I AM FOOD! Goes right along with being pregnant, eh?

You Are French Food

Snobby yet ubiquitous. People act like they understand you more than they actually do.

What Kind of Food Are You?

I was a bit surprised!

I saw this thing on Judy's blog and thought it was cute!


You are Pig Pen!


Which Peanuts Character are You?
brought to you by Quizilla

The countdown/Thanksgiving Pictures

Okay, so I kept seeing those cute little countdown meters on everyone else's pages, so I decided we needed one too! I am becoming more of a trend follower these days! SO, just to give you an idea of where baby is at, see the meter :)

Here is the link to the Thanksgiving pictures.... enjoy!
Thanksgiving

26 Weeks, and HAPPY TURKEY DAY!

So, the baby decided last night that is was not time to go to bed. He, or she kept moving around and stretching! I felt like at one point I had feet on both sides of my tummy (don't say it! It's not 2). I did finally get to sleep, but woke up a few hours later to start cooking Thanksgiving Dinner. That's right folks, I am cooking this year. My parents went to Canada to see family, so Charlie (younger brother) is staying with us, and I am endeavoring my first thanksgiving to cook for my new family! Well, speaking of cooking, I better get back to work!


How your baby's growing: Your baby now weighs a little under 2 pounds and measures about 14 inches, from head to heel. The nerve pathways in her ears are developing, which means her response to sounds is growing more consistent. Her lungs are developing now, too, as she continues to take small breaths of amniotic fluid good practice for when she's born and takes that first breath of air. If you're having a boy, his testicles are beginning to descend into his scrotum a trip that will take about two to three days.

How your life's changing: Around this time, your blood pressure may be increasing slightly as it returns to its normal pre-pregnancy range. (It was at a low from 22 to 24 weeks.) Though preeclampsia most often occurs in the last trimester, this is a good time to be aware of the warning signs of this dangerous condition that occurs in about 3 to 7 percent of all pregnancies. Signs you should be alert for include swelling of the hands and face, sudden weight gain (due to water retention), blurry vision, seeing spots before your eyes, sudden severe or persistent headaches, or upper abdominal pain. By checking for high blood pressure and protein in your urine, your caregiver will monitor you for preeclampsia at your routine prenatal visits, but call her immediately if you have any of these symptoms before your next appointment. Early identification of preeclampsia is essential for the health of you and your baby.

If your back seems a little achy lately, you can thank pregnancy hormones (which are loosening up your joints and ligaments) and your shifting center of gravity. Walking, standing, or sitting for long periods, bending and lifting can all put a strain on your back. A warm bath or cool compress might bring relief. Or you may want to schedule a prenatal massage by a trained therapist. Use a pregnancy wedge when sleeping, to support your back and abdomen. Try to maintain good posture, which will help reduce the strain on your back, and always take care when bending and lifting. If you experience severe pain or numbness in any area of your body, call your practitioner.

You wanted pictures....

Ok, we have a couple pictures online... check them out here Watching Baby Grow

Let me know what you think!

25 Weeks, and we're back!

Ok, well we have the net again! YEAH!! I will try to get back into giving a message a week. I missed week 24 completely... but I was not able to check my email. Things are going well... beside the fact that my doctor does not take my new insurance. She is trying to find me a good doc that does though. Well, I need to go. Enjoy!


How your baby's growing: Head to heels, your baby now measures about 13 1/2 inches. His weight — a pound and a half — doesn't sound like much, but he's beginning to exchange his long, lean look for some baby fat. As he does, his wrinkled skin will begin to smooth out and he'll start to look more and more like a newborn. His hair is probably recognizable now (in color and texture), although both may change after he's born.
• Note: Experts say every baby develops differently — even in the womb. This developmental information is designed to give you a general idea of how your baby is growing.How your life's changing: Your baby's not the only one with more hair — your locks may look more full and lustrous than ever. It's not that you're growing more hair, but the hair you'd normally shed is sticking around longer than usual. You may also notice darker or thicker body hair. It will return to normal in the weeks after you give birth. You probably can't move around as gracefully as before. It's fine to continue to exercise, but use your common sense: Don't work out when you're feeling overly tired, and stop if you feel any pain or when you begin to feel at all fatigued, dizzy, or short of breath. Don't lie on your back too long or do any exercise where you're apt to lose your balance. Be sure to drink plenty of water, and make time for both warm-up and cool-down periods.When you have your glucose-screening test at 24 to 28 weeks, your practitioner may take a second tube of blood at the same time to check for anemia. Although your blood volume increases dramatically during pregnancy, the total amount of your red blood cells becomes diluted — a problem sometimes called physiologic anemia that's common in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy. If your blood tests show that you have anemia, your caregiver will likely recommend that you take a supplement.Have you started thinking about baby names yet? Choosing a name is an important decision, but it should be a fun one, too. Look to family history (Great Grandpa Zeb), favorite locations (Venice, where you honeymooned), or cherished literary or film characters (Greta, Meg, or Rhett, for example). Check out a couple of baby-name books to help you brainstorm, too.

Sorry...

Hey y'all, sorry that I have not done my weekly baby update... We have been without internet for a few days and I have not had a chance to get on at work until now. If you are interested in how the baby is doing, he/she is fine. I could not sleep much last night because that little bundle of joy would not stop moving around. You think it is hard to get comfortable when you are trying to go to bed... these babies sure can't get comfortable! Although, it might have something to do with all the candies I have been eating! At work, there is a candy bowl in the office that is loaded everyday! I get my share... and then when I get home, I eat lots and lots of gummy bears! Well, I need to go get my kids from Art class. I hope all is well with all of you.

23 weeks, and a Karate Pro in my tummy!

Well, things have been going great around here. I have very few complaints. I officially have health insurance, I am just waiting on the doctor listing. I hope that my old doctor is on there, then I would not have to pay for a doctors visit to get a referral for an OBGyn. I really can't wait to get to a doctor. I want to make sure everything is okay with the baby. There is a lot of movement, sometimes he/she stretches so much it hurts! My skin is stretching, and I can feel it! All these feelings that I was not prepared for, but it's all worth what we get in the end! I got an add to Burlington Coat Factory, and they have some really nice cribs on sale! I am going to go look on Sunday, hopefully Chris does not have to work, and can go with me.

Well, I guess that is all for now. Hope all is well for all of you!


23 Weeks at Babycenter.com
How your baby's growing: Your baby is more than 11 inches long and weighs just over a pound. His skin is red and wrinkled. Blood vessels in his lungs are developing to prepare him for breathing. He can swallow, but he normally won't pass his first stool (called meconium) until after birth. Loud noises heard often in utero — such as your dog barking or the roar of a vacuum cleaner — probably won't faze your baby when he hears them outside the womb.

How your life's changing: If you dealt with headaches in your first trimester, they might be subsiding now. (Many women have headaches in early pregnancy, thanks to pregnancy hormones, changes in circulation, and/or sinus congestion.)You may notice some mild swelling sometime during your pregnancy, especially in your ankles and feet. It's called edema, and it happens because changes in your blood chemistry cause fluid to shift into your tissue and because your enlarging uterus puts pressure on the veins returning blood from the lower half of your body, slowing circulation in your legs. Edema is often worse at the end of the day and in the summer. Your body will eliminate the extra fluid after you have your baby (which is why you may urinate often and sweat a lot for a few days after delivery). In the meantime, put your feet up when you can, stretch out your legs when you sit, avoid sitting still for long periods, exercise regularly to increase circulation, and wear support stockings (put them on first thing in the morning). You may be tempted to skimp on liquids, but you need to drink plenty of water, because keeping hydrated actually helps prevent swelling. If you notice severe or sudden swelling in your hands and face, be sure to call your midwife or doctor because it may be a sign of a serious condition called preeclampsia.

Just a quick note...

We went to Babies R Us today and started a registry. Just thought I would let y'all know. :)

http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/browse/-/540744/ref%3Drd%5Fbru%5Fhp%5FSTE/103-3991102-5531032

Remember, my last name is now Richards ;)

Good News!

Well, I never did give my letter of resignation, because I was waiting for our fall festival to be over. The festival was last night, and it was a great success! Between school and the festival, the principal asked me to come see her. I went to her office, wondering what in the world she would want to see me for. Well, she first asked if we could pray before she spoke to me... make you want to worry? She informed me right as we were going to pray that I need not worry, the news she had for me was nothing negative.

After praying, she began to remind me of a conversation that we had about a month ago; where she was telling me how good I was doing, and how she really appreciated my staying with the school, and giving my all, even considering the lousy pay. She reminded me that she had been trying to get me a raise in pay. Then she proceeded to tell me that she can now give me that. I will be making more money, and they are paying for my health coverage. The insurance company they are setting me up with will cover the pregnancy and delivery! I can go see a doctor again!!!!!!

See, I told you it was good news!

Oh, and I am getting sick of everyone touching my tummy!!!!

22 weeks, not much change.

Well, I feel about the same. The babies kicks are starting to occur more often, and are getting stronger, but I am about the same size and weight that I have been for a couple weeks. I have put on about 20 pounds since I got pregnant. Most people at work think that I am having a girl, but I have this gut feeling that it is a boy. I want to find out the sex, but Chris doesn't, this is very hard!

Work is seeming to calm down a bit, but I am going to talk to them after our Fall Festival is over (that is tomorrow). I am going to basically tell them that I expect equal pay to my co-workers, or to consider this my thirty days notice. Chris said we will figure something out, but I am not allowed to wait tables. He thinks that is to degrading.

Well, I guess that is all for now... See below for details on how baby is growing.

Oh, GO ASTRO'S (they made it further than they ever have before!)

How your baby's growing: Your baby now looks like a miniature newborn, checking in at 10.9 inches and almost 1 pound. Her skin will continue to appear wrinkled until she gains enough weight to fill it out, and the fine hair (lanugo) that covers her head and body is now visible. Her lips are becoming more distinct, and the first signs of teeth are appearing as buds beneath her gum line. Her eyes are developed, though the iris (the colored part of the eye) still lacks pigment. Eyelids and eyebrows are in place, and her pancreas, essential for hormone production, is developing steadily.
• Note: Experts say every baby develops differently — even in the womb. This developmental information is designed to give you a general idea of how your baby is growing.How your life's changing: You may start to notice stretch marks on your skin as your abdomen expands to accommodate your growing baby. Some pregnant women never get stretch marks, but at least half do. These small streaks of differently textured skin can range from pink to dark brown (depending on your skin color), and they become more apparent as pregnancy progresses. They can appear not only on your tummy, but also on your buttocks, thighs, hips, and breasts. Lotions won't prevent or eliminate them, but they help with any itching. Also, you may no longer be an "innie" — your navel is flat and may soon pop out. It will revert to its usual shape after birth.Another interesting skin quirk you may notice during pregnancy is something called vascular spiders. These are little areas of raised, reddish skin, with tiny branches. Commonly found on the face, neck, upper chest, and arms, they're caused by the higher levels of estrogen in pregnancy, and they usually disappear after delivery.

The ball hit the bat, not Dye's arm!

The Umps in Chicago are cheaters!!!!!!! That is all I have to say right now... the game is still on! Grrrrrrrrr! Astro's better win!

21 weeks, and the kicks go on...

Well, I had the post all typed up, and for some reason, it disappeared! I am so mad! Anyway, that is not the only thing that I am mad about! I am so sick of my boss! She made me very mad today, but I am not going to get into that! Long story short (since I don't feel like typing it all over again) my friend who teaches 5th grade gave her notice and her last day is November 10th. I plan on telling them that they either need to pay me what all the other teachers are making, or more... or I am putting in my notice. They tried to threaten Priscilla (5th grade teacher) by telling her they would take her teaching license and make her job history look bad and all this stuff. Well, her fiancee came in and had a talk with them about that! Our contracts state that we have to give 30 days notice, without reason! She gave them much more than that, and has great reasons for leaving! She is getting married for crying out loud! Like I have said so much in the past 3-4 months, this job is nothing more than a job... there is no ministry left! Unfortunately, I HATE it!

On another note, I saw my mom today! She looked so good.... I had not seen her in a great while, because she works crazy hours and I live far from her now. She is so happy in this job ad I am so thankful that God provided for her a job were she is respected and appreciated, now it is my turn!

My baseball team is going to the World Series!!! GO ASTRO'S!!!!!!!!!!!!!

And now, the baby update, brought to you by babycenter.com :
How your baby's growing: Your baby now weighs about three-quarters of a pound and is approximately 10 1/2 inches long. His eyebrows and eyelids are fully developed. And you can certainly feel him move. He's oblivious to your schedule, though, so don't be surprised if he starts working out just when you're settling down for the night. If you're having a girl, her vagina is formed now, though it will continue to develop until birth.
How your life's changing: You're probably feeling pretty comfortable these days. You're not too big yet, and the usual aches and pains associated with early pregnancy are, for the most part, gone. Relax and enjoy it while you can — the third trimester will bring some mild discomfort from carrying a baby who is nearly full-term.That's not to say you don't have some minor glitches to deal with now. Increased oil production may have given you a mild case of acne, for example. If that's the case, be diligent about washing well with a gentle soap and water twice a day, but don't take any oral acne medications — or even use any topical acne products — without checking with your practitioner first.You're also prone to varicose veins now (especially if your mom has them). That's because pregnancy puts added pressure on the veins in your legs. (Your blood volume is increased and your uterus puts pressure on the inferior vena cava, the large vein that returns blood from the lower half of your body to your heart.) As if that's not enough, an increase in the hormone progesterone causes the walls of your blood vessels to relax, so as your baby and uterus grow, the veins can become more and more prominent. Varicose veins tend to worsen with each pregnancy, and while they're most likely to show up in your legs, they can also appear on your vulva.If your legs ache, put maternity support hose on first thing in the morning. Increasing your circulation with a brisk walk each day can also help, as can elevating your legs and sleeping on your left side with your feet propped up with a pillow.

20 weeks, and still kicking... Literally!

So as, the days go by, the baby kicks more and more. He or she will be quite the soccer player some day (following in mommies footsteps). There has not been a lot going on, as you can see by the lack of posts. Christian's birthday is tomorrow, he will be nine! We went on a field trip to the children's Museum. The kids had such a great time; there is so much to do there, and not enough time to do it. After the museum, went went to CiCi's Pizza for lunch. Kids love CiCi's; and so do hungry pregnant women! Well, that is all I have. If you are interested in what is going on with the baby, read on.... Otherwise, comment or come back and visit us soon.

The following is from babycenter.com :
How your baby's growing: Your baby weighs about 10 1/2 ounces now. She's also around 6 1/2 inches long from head to bottom, and about 10 inches from head to heel. (For the first 20 weeks, we use measurements taken from the top of the baby's head to her bottom — known as the "crown to rump" measurement. After that, we use measurements from head to toe. This is because a baby's legs are curled up against her torso during the first half of pregnancy and are very hard to measure.)A greasy white substance called vernix caseosa coats her entire body to protect her skin during its long submersion in amniotic fluid. (This slick coating also eases the journey down the birth canal.)Your baby is swallowing more, which is good practice for her digestive system. She's also producing meconium, a black, sticky substance that's the result of cell loss, digestive secretion, and swallowed amniotic fluid. This meconium will accumulate in her bowels, and you'll see it in her first messy diaper (although a few babies pass it in utero or during delivery).

19 weeks, and little baby kicks...

So, what to say about the happenings of the Richards family. We are keeping very busy, pushing every penny to its max! We are getting tile put down in the house. My older brother (Maurice) works for a tile laying company, and is doing the job... We have to pay, but they are working with us. We are getting the tiles for about 50 cents a square foot, and the labor is crazy expensive, but not really, considering what all they have to do. Once the floor is down, our kitchen will be basically done. Just need to finish a few cabinet doors. Our living room and dining room just need the floor and then a couple area rugs to add some character. I am going to love my house when it is all done.

Now, to the tummy news... We are 19 weeks, and this baby is going to be a great soccer player! It is so funny when I am in the middle of teaching and all of a sudden *bam bam* ok, what did I do, I am just teaching these kids how to use a number line, and I get kicked... You think he or she is going to want all of my attention, all the time? That could be a problem! I am sorry to my friends out there who are pregnant, and can't eat, sleep, ect... I am still having a very calm pregnancy, thank God for that, this no insurance thing would suck if there were problems. Well, that is all for now...

There's no hiding...

Well, the news is well known at my job. My principal came to talk to me today about a 6 week sub. Now, I just need to find out how much of my maternity leave will be paid! So, once the principal talked to me, all these teachers came to talk to me and say congratulations. I am thinking the shirt that I wore today gave it away. Well, that is all I have to say. I am tired and my knees hurt. Hope you are all well.

18 weeks...

Well, I am now 18 weeks pregnant, and our baby is about the size of a large sweet potato (about 5 1/2 inches). Almost all of my co-workers now know, but because they asked, I have not told anyone at work. My boss has not said anything yet, I don't think she dares. Still no morning sickness, I feel fine. So, I have no complaints, except, it is kind of hard to get comfortable at night when going to sleep. I have learned that a body pillow does the trick quite nicely. Ok, well I am done for now. I wont bore you with pregnancy stuff. But, I do love being pregnant!

Keeping in touch...

It is amazing what a little storm can do :) I got so many phone calls both before and after the storm, people checking to make sure that we were okay. Among those were a few from BBC... I got to talk with Elizabeth Bosley... yeah! She is so awesome, I miss her and Jon, and I want to meet their two little ones. I also got to talk to my big brother, Elli-bum ;) (Elliott). He and Dena are coming down to Texas in a couple weeks... I think she and I may have to compare bellies! I am thankful to all of you who prayed for us, and thought of us during this craziness.

I have to go back to work on Wednesday (man!) I am really enjoying the time off. Chris and I got a lot done yesterday and today around the house. Our kitchen looks really good! Soon, the tile will be going down in the kitchen, dining room, living room, hall ways, and bathrooms. Then, our house will be perfect! Thank God my brother works for a tiling company!

Well, that's all... Talk to y'all later.

Oh, and Elliott said I sound like a southern bell.... I think it is for sure time for me to move back to Canada!

Rita made a right turn...

Well, Rita went to the right, and missed us. My parents lost power for a while, but nothing more than that. We have two extra days off school. I have not heard from my school as to any damage to the building, but I know that we have Monday and Tuesday off. It's crazy you know, to think that the storm could have come through and torn up our house and all the things that we hold dear. But, there is not damage, nothing more than a few extra leaves in the grass, and some much needed rain!

Well, that is all I have for you, just wanted everyone to know we are safe, and so is our house. Thank you for all your prayers during this time.

EEEEEK HURRICANE!

Okay, so now we are the victims at hand. Rita is headed right for us :( We have not done anything by any means when it comes to preparing the house. There is no more plywood at the stores, no water, nothing. My parents think that they will be okay staying here, they live in North West Houston. We live in South Houston, otherwise known as Sugarland. While they have not said anything about Sugarland evacuating, we think it may be a good idea. Chris does not want to leave. He wants to say here and take care of the house and all the stuff. I have to admit, I am getting a bit scared. I am not sure if I should stay, or go to Dallas and stay with my sister in law or my other sister in laws sister (was that confusing?) Chris wants me and Christian to go, and he wants to stay... does that sound bad? I told him that I don't care about our stuff, I just want us all together. So, we may leave around 3am tonight/tomorrow morning and head for Dallas... So, I don't know, but I will keep you all updated as I know more, and as I can get to a computer. Please keep Texas in your prayers, this is a category 5 hurricane, and it is supposed to be a historical storm. Ok, so I am rambling because we are on and off the phone with family all over the US and Canada. Love y'all!

More, more, more...

So, I found out this morning that one of my students older sister died over the weekend. She had down syndrome, and had been in the hospital since July. Imani (my student) came to school with a cough, and was feeling sick to her tummy all morning. When she ran for the bathroom holding her mouth, I took that as a sign to send word to the office to have her mom pick her up. I later found out that her parents were in the middle of making funeral arrangements when they were contacted. I sent work with her, so hopefully she was distracted from the painful information her parents were going through.

At the end of the day, I received word that I will have a new student tomorrow morning. So now, I have the most (no longer tied for the most) students in the school, and I am still the lowest paid teacher. But, I keep on because I love the Lord, and I love those kids!

I am seeking various possibilities on where to have the baby. I have considered libido at a birthing center. I learned that birthing centers tend to cost less than a hospital, and you get to do things your way, and kids are welcome in the room. We want Christian to be in the room when the baby is born. No, he is not going to be down on the side where the baby comes out, he wants to hold my hand :)

Check out this site to find out some of the stuff I have found out! http://www.americanpregnancy.org/labornbirth/birthingcenter.html

We went to Build-A-Bear last night and made a Giraffe for Baby Richards. We dressed it in a baby outfit... they also had T-shirts that say "It's a boy: and "It's a girl" But we don't know yet ;) So... that's the new news here.... oh, and I know you can't really tell in the picture, but I am now 4 months along :)

Wedding Pics

What to say when people start to notice...

Well, one of my coworkers asked me today if I was pregnant... She and I sat down during a break that we share and talked about everything. She is also trying to get Medicaid for herself and her daughter. Her ex-husband lost his job, so she now gets no child support. Man... that stinks! We decided to talk about things with each other and she plans to help me out as much as she can through all of this... Yeah, I have a buddy at work, LOL!

On another note, my Dad came home from Louisiana. He caught a nasty virus while he was there, and then to make matters worse, he stepped on an old rusty nail while doing an inspection. That sucker went through his rubber boots and his steal toe boots. Needless to say, he is relaxing in bed and on lots of meds. He told me that he does not want to go back when he is better, "it smells so bad there!" But he will go back if they call him to return.

Well, that is all for now.

What to say about this and that...

Okay, so we don't qualify for Medicaid, however I got a packet in the mail today about the Texas Star Program. From what I have read, it sounds like we can get insurance for about $10 a month. That is better than the $200+ I would pay at work. Now that is only if I am reading the information right. I have to call and get it all set up, so be praying for that to work out.

On another note, my principal is already asking if I plan to return next fall. In my head I am saying HECK NO, but I have to be nice, so I told her it is up in the air and dependent on Chris' employment. I have some leads into some schools closer to home, and we are still looking into the possibilities of relocation. I will keep y'all posted as I know more.

Last thing... I watched that new show "Supernatural" tonight! Wow, I give it good ratings! It kept me watching :)

Wedding pictures are up!

Okay, nearly two months after the wedding, I finally got some of the pictures up. Check them out at the link below!
Wedding Pics

Wedding Pictures

Officially done with the USA

Well, I am not happy with the USA! I wasted a day sitting at the Medicaid office, to find out the our joint income is to high to qualify for Medicaid! What kind of crap is that! I have crappy pay, Chris does too, and we make to much!?!?!?!? We are over by $100 a month. So, long story short, LOOK OUT CANADA, WE ARE WORKING ON OUR PAPERWORK!

Oh, and I saw the doctor yesterday: we are 15 weeks along, and the babie's due date is March 2nd. (Maybe he/she will be late and be born on Tammy's birthday)

Excited!

I just wanted to say that I am very excited for Denise and Tyler! They will be seeing each other soon, after so long apart! Pray that they make a baby!

Check out what is new with them at http://spaces.msn.com/members/denisebickford/

Dinner Ideas?

So, I need some idea's on some cheap to make, but good dinners. We are very tight on money, especially now that gas prices are over $3 a gallon. If you have some ideas, please let me know!