Belly Pics 3

     We've reached the third trimester ya'll!!  I have about 2 months left!  (Depending on when she decides she really is ready.)  Every day it seems like my belly is expanding further and further outward.  It's all so incredible.  Though, lately, I've been kind of missing my flat tummy.  There really wasn't a whole lot of time to enjoy or appreciate it before little miss grew big enough to take over my belly.  While I know that it's all for a miraculous cause and I am so happy for why my belly is growing, I also know that my belly will never been the same.  That thought makes me a little sad for myself.  But this post is NOT about feeling sad or having a pity party.  This is all about a growing baby belly.

(Here are the first and second posts to see the overall progression.)

26 Weeks

28 Weeks

30 Weeks

32 Weeks

     When I was 30 weeks, my Relief Society (an organization for the woman 18 and older in the church) President said that I was finally starting to look pregnant.  Insert eye roll here.  I'm sure she was just trying to be nice, because seriously honey.  How big does a girl's belly have to be around here to be acknowledged as pregnant?  Sheesh.  ;)  I'm really not one of those ladies who gets offended when you say my belly looks big.  It IS for goodness sakes.  It is large and in charge.  Doesn't mean I look fat.  My extremities could use some toning, but I don't think I look fat.  Oh well, I just smile and say, "That's nice of you, but really my belly is HUGE!"  Haha.

Midwife Appointment at 31 Weeks

 For the record, these little stockings are empty not because I already ate all the chocolates, but because I never got around to buying them. 

      The week before this appointment, Ginger came to our house and we began our first of two birth classes with her at our home.  I loved this.  The general idea was for her to give us an idea of a range of normal during labor and birth.  This will help us to know when things are going as they should and if we experience something outside of this, then we know to talk to her and take the appropriate actions.  Leading up to these appointments, I wondered how it would feel to have our caregiver in our home.  The idea of it seems strange and awkward.  However, when Ginger showed up and we got started, I was happy that I was really comfortable with her there.  This is definitely a good thing to know in advance of me going into labor.  :)

     In the first birth class we talked and learned about what takes place during the first three stages of labor.  I won't go into all the details of everything as only having taken the classes once does not qualify me to teach them.  Basically, I'm so glad that we were able to have her come to our home and get a feel for our environment.  It was also great and interesting to learn more about birth and labor.  I've tried to learn as much as I can, but you can never have too much information in this area.  It makes me really glad that I record our appointments so that I can go back and remember what we learned.  During this appointment she also went over my glucose test results.  I already knew the results were good, but it was good to go into more detail.

     One thing I have to mention about Ginger is that she has worked with other LDS patients before and even suggested that we may at some point want me to have a priesthood blessing.  I really appreciate that consideration.  Our second appointment was the next week and we talked about what happens after birth, such as the APGAR, birthing the placenta, and breastfeeding.  Again, this was at home and I'm so glad because this was at the beginning of the cold that I'm currently experiencing and so I stayed in my PJs.  No guilty feelings for me.  :)  After we finished with the class we started my prenatal appointment.  We talked about my weight gain, which is on track to gaining more than 30.  The holidays have not been good for super healthy eating.  Not awesome, but since I don't have Gestational Diabetes it's fine, just means I'll have more to lose after our little girl is born.  And honestly, while I need to work out much more, I DON'T FEEL FAT.  I feel pregnant, but not fat.  Oh and by the way, I've totally done it before so I KNOW that I can do it again.  Though it will be interesting how things will work when I have a little one to take care.

     She went over what happens during the Group B Strep test so we know what happens when we do that.  Then, she did the exam with me on the couch leaning back onto Ty's lap.   Baby was measuring at 30 weeks and heartbeat was lovely.  All in all, everything's good.  Hooray!  Next thing on my list to do is to call her office and make ALL the rest of my appointments.  Gah!  Am I really that far along already?  This is crazy, but amazing.

My Baby Momma Wishlist

    You might have already taken notice to the rotating wishlists on the right side of the blog.  I started the Baby Wishlist ages ago, before I was ever pregnant, and have updated it quite a few times since then.  All of my wishlists are stored on a site called Wishpot.com.  I can't remember where I first heard about it, but I really love it.  I have nine wishlists that are available for the public eye. Having different categories makes it easier to look through to me.

     The reason I love Wishpot.com?  I don't have to create a list from any one specific store or site.  I can shop around online without having to leave the comfort of my home and find the best price for whatever thing I want to add (because I like to find good deals and then no one has to pay more than necessary).  And let's be honest, sometimes what you want isn't always at the same place where you find other items for a specific list.  Say I go to Target or Babies 'R Us and create a registry.  It's quite possible that they aren't going to have all of the items I want on my list or they have the item, but for more expensive than other stores.  This provides a way to bring it all together in one place.

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     If you want to go to my list, click underneath the slideshow where it says "View my list on Wishpot".  I will also be providing a link here and on Facebook.  Or if you would like you can simply go to Wishpot.com and do a search for me, by going to the top right-hand corner of the site and make sure you select "People".

     Enter Jennifer Robbins and there I'll be, pregnant belly and all.  Hopefully the first person at the top of the list.  If not, this is the image you should see.  (If you need to, click on any of these images to make them bigger and easier to see.)

     Click on my image or name and that will take you to all of my lists.  Go to the "Baby Shower Registry".  At that point it should look like this :

      Let's say you decided that you want to buy something.  Click the "Buy it" button.  When you do this a small pop up will appear prompting you to give your name and email so you can mark the item as purchased.  This helps to avoid getting double of things.  There is also a little box that can be checked if you would like it to be kept a secret from me that you bought it.  This means that other people can see the item was purchased, but I cannot.  You can choose to "Skip this step", however, the item will not be marked as purchased.

     If you do decide to follow through with this step, it will take you to the item's page (don't worry, you can easily get back to the registry from here by clicking "Back:  Baby Shower Registry on the top left) and it will likewise have a small pop up prompting you to buy the item or simply return to the page, if you choose to not buy it at this time or maybe you want to buy it at a store.

 

     Once it's marked as purchased it will look like this:

      Should you choose to buy the item it will take you to another window where you can do so.   You can also click on the title of the item, which will take you to the item's page if you want to see a larger picture, the description, leave a comment, see where you can buy it and for how much.

     The only problem with Wishpot that I've had is that sometimes when I add things from Amazon it doesn't assign the correct price and I'm not able to edit it.  Since, I try to keep up with the price changes, I've added under the description what the actual price is for the items that don't match up.  Hopefully, this causes less confusion for when you are deciding what to buy and when you go to buy it.

     The last two items on my registry, which are for our water birth at home, are expensive and I don't expect people to purchase them in full.  So instead, you are able to contribute to the cost of these items.

     If you would like to do this, click "Contribute" and it will take you to a PayPal page.  These items are linked to my account so that it's not going to just anyone.  You have the option of using your PayPal account, or if you don't have an account you can pay as a PayPal guest.

     As you look through the registry, you'll notice at the very top of the list, that you sort it in different ways.  I have it set to sort by Price (low to high) because that's the way I shop and figured people generally do too.  However, you can also adjust it to Date Added, Last Updated, Priority, Title, and Price (high to low).  As far as priority, you'll notice quite a few are "I neeed it" since this is my first baby and we need quite a few things.  Priority level varies between I neeeed it, I really really want it, I want it, I wouldn't mind having it, and Thinking about it.  Other than a few fun onesies, baby clothes are the only thing I didn't add to the list because I didn't want to add anything specific.  Besides, we can always use clothes....and diapers.

     I hope this post helps explain how this all works and doesn't make it too confusing.  It really is easy, it just takes a lot to explain.  I'm visual, as I think quite a few people are, and so I think the pictures really help to figure things out.  

     The link to my Baby Shower Registry is: 

http://www.wishpot.com/list.aspx?list=63724&uid=16209&rc=surl&sp=fHoodTI4PhwzNjgyODYwOnYyMCxsMTYyMDksNjM3MjQ7cmwxNjIwOSw2MzcyNDs*

      

Christmas Movie List 2011

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     In case you hadn't noticed I sort of love watching movies.  I, likewise, love to watch them to inspire the spirit of a holiday.  This year I finally sat down ahead of time and wrote out the list of movies I like to watch during this Christmas season.  As with the Halloween list, I'm also showing which ones are available on Netflix and Netflix Instant.

1. Miracle on 34th Street (1994 version) - own, Netflix
2. Miracle on 34th Street (1947 colorized version) - own, Netflix (B&W is on Netflix Instant)
3. The Best Christmas Pageant Ever - own
4. Mickey's Christmas Carol - own
5. The Muppet Christmas Carol - own
6. National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation - own, Netflix
7. While You Were Sleeping - own, Netflix
8. Mr. Krueger's Christmas - own
9. Home Alone - own, Netflix
10. Home Alone 2 - own, Netflix
11. Elf - own, Netflix
12. A Christmas Story - own, Netflix
13. Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer - own, Netflix
14. Frosty the Snowman - own, Netflix (w/ Frosty Returns)
15. Frosty Returns - own, Netflix (w/ Frosty the Snowman)
16. Santa Claus is Comin' to Town - own, Netflix
17. The Little Drummer Boy - own
18. It's a Wonderful Life - own, Netflix
19. The Santa Clause - Netflix
20. The Santa Clause 2 - Netflix Instant
21. The Polar Express - Netflix
22. Babes in Toyland (1986 version) - Netflix Instant
23. White Christmas - Netflix
24. The Nativity Story - Netflix
25. Hogfather - Netflix Instant
26. Fred Claus - Netflix
27. Nutcracker:  The Motion Picture - Netflix Instnat
28. Santa Claus:  The Movie - Netflix Instant
29. A Christmas Carol (2009 version) - Netflix Instant
30. Christmas Classics - Netflix Instant

     Who knew there would be so many?!  Is that really how you spell Netflix?  I definitely need more sleep.  A few comments on the movies I've chosen:  How is it possible that few people have every seen "The Best Christmas Pageant Ever"?!, "While You Were Sleeping" isn't all about Christmas, but it's during Christmas and Winter and that's good enough for me to call it Christmas, "Mr. Krueger's Christmas" is simply a classic and you can't ever have enough Jimmy Stewart, "Hogfather" is sort of a out there one, but it is Christmasy themed and if you've ever read or heard of Terry Pratchett you'll like it.  I'm excited about how many of these movies are on Netflix Instant, though because of Starz checking out next year I hope that doesn't mean a seriously lack of what's left.  I'll definitely be taking advantage this year. 

What's your favorite Christmas movie?

Being Pregnant

     I wanted to end my days of Thankful posts this month with the one I'm probably most excited about.  Although, I must say, I'm pretty ready to meet our daughter instead of housing her.  :)  I'm continuously amazed at how much bigger my belly is getting, which of course, is a reflection of how much bigger she is getting.  Oh dear.  In only a few short months we'll be holding her in our arms and seeing just how big she is.

     I'm already bigger than I am in that picture.  Sometimes I think that it's all happening so fast, but then when I reflect on how long it took us to get here, I remember how those months passed so slowly.  My Heavenly Father has been so good to us and hindsight has helped me to appreciate the blessing we had to enjoy our marriage with just the two of us.  Even more now than before.  It's also allowed us to appreciate what a gift it is that we are being given on an even deeper level.  I believe that had we had children when I wanted we never would be able to have experiences that needed to grow and become better.  It's a little easier for me to empathize with those struggle with infertility (though I don't pretend to be an expert of any one person's situation and experience).  The time I struggled with it helped to test my faith and show me how weak I really am and that through my Heavenly Father, true miracles take place.  Now that I am pregnant, though it challenges me in different ways, I'm so grateful to be able to know I can have children and that we are chosen to have this child come to us first.  I hope we live up to the job.  I'm looking forward to getting to know this little spirit and understand who she is as a person.

I'm thankful to Be Pregnant because it's just one more way the Lord has shown his love for me.

     As a side note, my sister-in-law, Cecilia gave birth to their twin boys on Monday, November 28th, and she is amazing and wonderful, having done it completely natural.  Her birth story is written on her blog found here.

Garage Sales

     Until I started experiencing morning sickness, this summer I had one mission.  Garage Sales.  Go and save on awesome things.  I know Extreme Couponing has been getting a lot of press lately and it's pretty impressive what people can get for next to nothing.  However, sometimes I find people are overindulgent in their purchases and buy things they don't really need simply because they can.  Getting a good find at a Garage Sale is like hitting the jackpot or finding buried treasure. 

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     I love that I was able to buy a toaster oven, fully functional and working, just needed to be cleaned, for $5.  Yes!!!  Those bad boys can be expensive and I saved a bunch.  One of my favorite events of this year was the huge Mill Creek Garage Sales we were able to go to in October.  We were lucky to go up with my in-laws with their truck and trailer and find the majority of things we need for our little girl and some other fun items.  We were able to get a travel system, pack n' play, bouncer, carseat cover, co-sleeper, baby bathtub, high chair, breast pump, glider & ottoman, baby clothes, bed frame (for us), leather chair, and a George Foreman Grill (new) for under $250.  Yeah, we scored.  I've been able to find more baby clothes in our own area of Garage Sales as well.  Thanks to Craigslist, which is like an online Garage Sale, we also found a crib w/ mattress and bedding and a papasan swing.  With the exception of a few onesies I was gifted and a nursing cover I found for really cheap, nothing I have for our daughter so far is brand new.  The old saying, "One man's trash is another man's treasure" is absolutely true in the case of Garage Sales.

I'm thankful for Garage Sales because they've allowed me to buy things I need (and don't need ;) ) without braking our bank account.

Time Out for Women

     For the past few years I've been really lucky to have been able to attend a women's conference put together by Deseret Book, called Time Out for Women.  It's a Friday night and all day Saturday event (though you can choose to do only one day) where us ladies congregate and listen to uplifting music and talks shared by selected talent and speakers.  You don't have to be LDS to attend, but generally speaking most who go are, though I'm confident everyone would enjoy it. 

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     To make each event more meaningful for myself, I would take notes and post my interpretations and inspirations on the blog.  You can find all of my posts so far here.  Unfortunately because I'll be so newly introduced to motherhood only a couple of months before, I won't be able to attend in 2012 as far as I can tell.  Also, I'm not sure where I'd stay.  This is regretful as the schedule for speakers and musical guests are going to be people high up on my list of those I'd like to hear, as well as the topics for the messages they've prepared.  Each year is uplifting in its own way and I always look forward to the next year.  If you are going this year please, please, pretty please write about it so I can live vicariously through you!!!  :)

I'm thankful for Time Out for Women because it helps me feel better about where I'm going and what I'm doing in my life.

Emotion Code/Muscle Testing

     I've mentioned it before, but in Ty's family we use something called the Emotion Code and Muscle Testing.  It truly amazing work.  Delving into what it is and how it works would be awfully complicated and take a ridiculously great amount of time to explain.  I would recommend reading the book, which you can find on Amazon here.  To briefly explain, we all have profound experiences (which are defined differently by each person) in our lives that can cause negative reactions.  It's a common thing to not deal with those negative emotions properly and this causes energy to be blocked and proclaiming itself in a physical manner.  The Emotion Code provides a way to release and deal with those blocked energies and "trapped emotions", helping to heal ourselves.

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     I can't even begin to tell you the amount of help it has given our family and I've also seen personal benefit.  There will be a lot of people who call this cockamamie, but to you I say, "Don't knock it 'til you try it."  It helps me to understand why I might get upset or anxious or feel sad about things and work to changing that.  The Muscle Testing work that we use in correlation to the Emotion Code helps to figure out what the body is yelling at us, trying to say.  Our bodies can give us the answers if we just take a minute or two to listen.

I'm thankful for the Emotion Code and Muscle Testing because they have helped me in physical and emotional ways so that I can be a happier person.

TV Episodes Online

     Have you ever missed your favorite show the night it was on?  We have plenty of times.  In fact, this holiday weekend, we are staying with family that does have cable, and we'll probably be hanging out and chatting most of the time anyway.  That doesn't mean I want to miss what happened this week on The Office though.

     Last night I missed Biggest Loser and we'll be at my parents' house tonight so I'll miss it again tonight.  I'm not worried though, because luckily I can go online and watch it for completely free!  Yay!  There are some shows that the company doesn't post online, like The Mentalist.......However, if you do enough digging you can find them online for free.  We always miss Bones and sometimes Mentalist on Thursdays, but there's a site that provides those episodes so we never have to miss them for long. 

I'm thankful for TV Episodes Online because it allows me to watch the entertainment I might have normally missed.  Technology is awesome.

Amazon.com

     It's Black Friday and I'm staying home and avoiding the chaos that is the sales.  Instead, I'm calmly awaiting Cyber Monday and all of its lovely deals.  I love being able to shop from home and rest my feet instead of walking around the store, frantically trying to find the item I MUST have.  My favorite online store:  Amazon.com.

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     Where else can you find a TV and German chocolate at the same place for relatively cheap?  I usually find the best deals there and I love that they have such a wide variety of stuff.  Typically, if I want something they have it.  Hooray!!  I don't know about you, but I do a lot of Christmas shopping here and that makes life so much easier.

I'm thankful for Amazon.com because it makes shopping better and easier.

Facebook

     Even through all the changes and updates, I still have to be thankful and glad for Facebook.  Where else can I spy stalk keep up with all of my friends and family?

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     I'm a social creature and love to interact with many people.  I love staying updated on everyone and not have to hear about it through the grapevine.  It's funny because my Mom will tell me some news about someone we know and I'll say, "Oh yeah, I already know that."  "How?", she asks.  "Uh, Facebook."  She then tells me how much she hates it and I continue to have my own opinion and use it.  To me, email is great, but if I really want people to know about something, my wedding reception for example, I put it on Facebook.  If I have a question that one or more of my friends might be able to help me out with, it goes on Facebook and more likely than not, I'll get a good response.  I refuse to use Facebook as my diary.  That's what this blog is for.  :)  Well, maybe not a full diary.  There are social limits and boundaries that get crossed on occasion by friends and it drives me mad.  I don't need or care to know what time you went to the store or ate a sandwich.  And I really don't need to know the personal details of your marriage or other relationships.  Tell your therapist, mom, or best friend.  For the most part though, I enjoy reading people's updates and seeing pictures of their families and how cute and adorable everyone's kids have gotten.  Unless you delete them, you don't have to loose track of friends and keep up with family you don't see often.  How wonderful is that? 

I'm thankful for Facebook because of the connection it gives me to my friends and family.

“[Consumers] don't have to worry about what's for dinner at the end of the day when they are using their Crock-Pot,” John Hanson

     We received our Crock Pot at our wedding and boy have I loved it!  I hate to keep saying this, but especially now.  By the end of the day I'm beat and don't really have the desire to make dinner.  However, with this beauty I can get started early and do little work.

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     Our favorite concoction is a Chicken Fiesta Soup.  The soup is really good and you can vary the heat depending on your tastebuds.  The best part is actually an idea that Ty came up with.  We drain it and use the meaty part for burritos.  YUM!!!  That's been such a lifesaver since it makes so much.  In fact, I always try to make some when I run out.  We've done a few other experiments with different recipes and again, I love that it doesn't take much work.  I have a cookbook full of recipes and I'm always looking on Pinterest for more.  If you have any that you'd like to share, please do!  I also love that it's low energy and doesn't heat up the kitchen like the oven does.  It really is a wonderful invention.

I'm thankful for my Crock Pot because of the time it saves me and the yummy meals it helps me make.

Energy....When I Have It

     If there is anything good about being sick or down for the count, it's that it helps us appreciate when we are healthy and everything is good.  So far, I've been fortunate to have only gotten sick once for a week in the very beginning of pregnancy.  However, who knew growing humans took so much out of you?  Especially, if I'm not careful and getting enough protein and water, I tend to feel quite exhausted.  Though sometimes regardless of that, sleep does elude me and I will still have a tough time not taking a nap during the day. 

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     When Energy does come my way, I like to take full advantage of it and get stuff done.  Sometimes it happens so out of the blue that Ty is confused and says, "I could have done that for you."  Probably, but if I can I'm gonna.  Today, I'm hoping that I'll have enough energy since I have some shopping and errands that need to get done.  My feet don't always last so long, but I'm going to do my best to finish everything on my list.  I think even when not pregnant, it's nice to have that boost of Energy to get you through the day.  To get things accomplished and checked off your list is wonderful and if I have the Energy to do it in one day, then we are in serious business.  :)

I'm thankful for When I Have Energy because it allows me to get things done and makes me feel better.

"This feature will no longer be available."

   
     That is what Facebook is telling me about my blog posts being imported to Notes starting tomorrow, November 22nd.  Seriously?!  I'm not excited about this.  There are a lot of you who only read my blog posts when they are put on Facebook.  However, I'm hoping that just because I will have to switch gears and do things differently, you'll all still love me and still come to my blog.  :)  My plan is to still post a link on Facebook when a new blog post is up.  My desire and hope is that you'll all still come visit and leave comments.  Leaving a comment is easily done, even if you don't have an account with Blogger, as they have a few options to choose from.  I hope you will leave comments because I love them.  :)

“I'd rather have a search engine or a compiler on a deserted island than a game.” John Carmack

     Looking stuff up on the internet is amazing!  How did we live before online searching?  The Encyclopedia?  Man, that was a lot of work.  This being the information age, brilliant people have developed ways for us to have such a plethora of knowledge at our fingertips.

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      These are just the most popular and the ones I use, but I'm sure there are many, many more.  I use Swagbucks most often because I can earn points and use them to purchase things.  The most common thing people redeem points for is Amazon.com e-Gift Cards.  Ty and I have been saving ours up in hopes of earning something big.  If I can't find what I'm looking for there, or if I'm using my phone, I use Google second most often.  Typically, I use these Search Engines to solve a debate or a looming question the group has.  Don't know the answer, "I'm lookin' it up".  Wanna prove you're right (or wrong depending on the answer), "I'm lookin' it up".  It's amazing that we have this technology today. 

I'm thankful for Search Engines because they bring information to me with me having to do so much much work and research.

My Faith

     Faith is a funny thing.  It requires trust and obedience.  Two things I've never been very good at.  ;)  However, in order to have Faith, these things are key.  It's difficult to put all of our trust in something greater than ourselves and do our part to see our hopes come to fruition.  When we do, though, beautiful things happen.  It also requires, at times, patience.  Yet another thing I often fail in practicing.  If you can't tell, I've had to continually work on My Faith.

 

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From Pinterest.

     Having Faith has taught me that I'm not always able to do things on my own, and I'm not required to.  It's taught me that even though I want something bad enough, no matter how righteous or good it is, that doesn't be mean I'll receive it promptly.  It might take time.

Again from Pinterest.  I told you I love that site.  :)

      Through Faith I've learned there are sometimes better things waiting for me than I could have imagined.  My husband for example.  Had I married the first guy, or even the second, I ever fell for, I know I wouldn't be nearly as happy and living the life that I know I truly should be.  I'm glad I kept Faith that someday I would find my real Prince Charming.  (Goodness this month is turning into a worship service for Ty.  I suppose he deserves it. ;) )  It took a lot of Faith for me that we would be able to have a child naturally.  It took three years, but it happened.  I really think that it was that release of control and finally letting my Faith take the reins that it happened.  I showed my Heavenly Father I was ready to trust Him fully, that I would do what He wanted me to do, no matter how long.  I'm so happy I did.  Throughout this pregnancy (and I'm sure until its end), I've had to continue with Faith that everything will be all right and that Baby Girl and I will both be safe and healthy. 

I'm thankful for My Faith because of the truths it testifies to me and because it continually guides me in the right direction.

Ty Working From Home

     Ty's job has always been flexible enough to let him work from home occasionally.  However, beginning a month and a half ago he's been working from home full time.  I must say, I'm a fan.  I really love being around my husband since he really is my favorite person.  When he is working, and especially in meetings I try not to be in the office or just keep quite so I don't disturb him and take too much advantage of his presence. 

Ty's workspace

     Since he's been home it's proven to be a great situation for both of us.  He can work in his pajamas all day and if I need his help with something quick, he's available.  Laundry for instance yesterday.  Lifting heavy loads isn't exactly on the list of things pregnant ladies should do.  Lucky for me, Ty is always to my rescue.  This arrangement has also saved us on gas.  Not that we lived far from where his office was before, but every little bit helps.  It also allows for me to take the car when needed and not have to worry that he'll need it, or that I'll have to pick him up or drop him off.  (***I should note that I almost never go anywhere with the car on my own, as I hate driving.  Also, the lifting heavy loads at Costco applies here.***)  When the baby comes, I'm looking forward to him being here.  Even if I don't always need him, it's comforting to know that he's not far.  My favorite part of Working From Home is the random kisses I get.  :)  Yup, it's great.

I'm thankful for Ty Working From Home because he's my rock and it's good to have him near me.

Pinterest

     It's my newest fun distraction and time waster.  Almost two months of using it and I'm already a pinning fiend.  Haha.  And I love it!!!

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     If you don't know what Pinterest is, I suggest you get on that band wagon.  Here's probably the best definition: 

    
     My friend Jenna of That Wife wrote a post on her blog explaining Pinterest and how it works with pictures.  I like pictures to explain things.  It makes it so much easier for me, as a visual learner.

     Here's Pinterest in 5 Steps:

     I love using Pinterest to find ideas for so many things.  I have multiple boards (several of which are categories for recipes) and it makes it so much more organized.  Though, I do need to go through a couple of my boards and divvy them up so it's even more organized.  I use StumbleUpon, but I like Pinterest's way of organizing better.  Though I will still keep using Stumble to find things and to bookmark the sites that don't have pictures rendering them unpinable. 

I'm thankful for Pinterest because it helps me come up with great recipes and other ideas, as well as helping pass time semi-productively.  :)

If you don't have a Pinterest account and would like one, leave me a comment with your email address and I will send you an invite.

Living Close to Family

     I love our family.  Both his and mine.  When we were first married we lived in Moses Lake, so we were even closer to each family.  However, job opportunities took us to the Tri-cities and we love it here, as previously mentioned in another post. Even still, we are pretty lucky to be close to family. 

Project:  Get updated pictures of both parents.  These are the only ones on my computer of them as couples and they are from at least a year or more ago.

     I love that both of our parents come visit us here when they come to the Tri-cities.  We love to see them and it's nice of them to take time out of their trip to see us.  Whenever we go to a family gathering, I'm always so glad that the longest we have to drive is an hour and a half.  Ty and I both have siblings that live much farther away and I wish that they lived nearer to us (or that we lived nearer to them) so we could see them more often.  One of his brothers, and his family, we see once a year and we all wish it was more.  I'm also glad that we have grandparents so close.  I have to admit that getting married and having two different families to spend time with was really different for me.  Since my maternal grandparents are in Germany, we only see them every so many years.  Oh how I wish that we could see them more than that!  It's hard to not see them as much and I miss them dearly.  However, I think it does make me appreciate them that much more.  (I LOVE YOU OMI AND OPA!)  Oh dear, the pregnancy hormones are kicking in and my eyes are getting teary.  Time to end.  :)

I'm thankful for our Families and that we Live Close to them because I love the bonds we share with them and I treasure the time we have.

My iPhone

     A year ago, I was pleading with my husband, trying to convince him I really did NEED an iPhone.  Or at least, I tried to get him to understand it's usefulness.  By January, he caved and I purchased my first smartphone on ebay.  (Ironically, about a month later, while updating it broke, but because it was only one day outside of the warranty they sent me a brand spankin' new one for free.) 

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     I love my iPhone.  I love having apps that I use on a daily basis.  For instance, the C25K App played a huge roll in my weight loss and I'm so glad that I had it.  When, Ty and I are wanting to eat out either in our area or on vacation, we use Urbanspoon and it's fun, casino-esque, search tool.  Though, I didn't think it would be all that great at first, the new Reminder app that came with the iOS5 update has really helped be more productive.  Especially considering the state of my "pregnancy brain" as of late.  The list could really run on for days as I'm always finding new apps that can be useful.  The point being, I'm so happy with my phone.  In spite of the release of the newest iPhone, I'm content with what I have for now and will look into upgrading next year.  Who knows, maybe there will even be an iPhone 5 and I'll snatch one of those.

I'm grateful for my iPhone because it makes life a little easier and helps me to accomplish things.

“Clothes and manners do not make the man; but, when he is made, they greatly improve his appearance.” Henry Ward Beecher

     I love clothes.  Right now, I'm incredibly limited in the amount of clothes I can wear.  If I'm not planning on seeing anyone or going out of my house, it tends to just be my pajamas.  However, I still love to put together cute outfits of from the limited selection of maternity clothes I've been able to procure so far.

 I don't have any pictures of my pregnant that aren't belly shots.  I'll work on that.  :)

     Isn't is wonderful that we have clothes and don't have to run around nakey in the freezing cold weather?  During the warmer months I know we all like to shed a few layers, but I'm glad that we have coverings to shield the world from seeing everything.  Some might be alright with showing a little extra skin, but I'm all for keeping what I got a secret.  My beliefs and standards have always given me the boundaries to stay within to keep myself modest and I greatly appreciate that.  Last month, during Activity Days (it's where the group of girls in the church between the ages of 8-11 get together once to twice a month and have lessons and activities suited to them), we had a lesson on Modesty.  I was so pleased with these girls and how they really felt the need to keep themselves covered and understood what it meant to be modest.  In the activity I brought some magazines for girls their age and we also had some church magazines at our disposal, to cut out pictures of modest clothing.  Looking for magazines at the store I was a little frustrated.  More of them were covered with women dressing too provocatively.  You can agree or disagree with me on this, but my personal opinion is that if a garment you are wearing is showing any part of your body, then the message you are giving people is, "I want you to be able to see this part of me."  If you are wearing something low cut or that comes up high, you are decidedly giving people permission to look, stare, and/or gawk.  My philosophy is don't give them the opportunity to make you feel like an object and wear clothes that fit and cover.  Rant over.  :)

I'm thankful for Clothes because they keep me covered and warm and secure and modest.

"And it came to pass, when she was in hard labour, that the midwife said unto her, Fear not; thou shalt have this son also." Gen. 35:17

     It wasn't easy finding a Midwife in this area.  There used to be a birth center in Kennewick, but it closed.  There's a group who are based half an hour from here, but they are booked up until after my due month.  I was lucky to find Ginger and that she is available.  She's been wonderful, as you can probably tell from my Midwife visit posts. 

Her website doesn't have her photo so I had to google it.  :)

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     My Midwife is very reassuring and confident in my abilities as a women to have this baby at home, naturally.  I kept wondering how to describe her personality to others.  On the way home from our last visit, I realized she has a very similar personality to my aunts on my dad's side.  So really she's like family.  :)  I'm very comfortable with her and I'm so glad that I feel so at ease in her presence.  That was something very important to me to find in a Midwife as she's going to be a big part of my labor and birth experience. 

I'm thankful for my Midwife, Ginger, because I'm so comfortable with her and she helps me stay confident in myself to be able to birth at home.

Massages

     I bet you're all thinking I'm going to say I'm thankful I can give massages.  No such luck.  :)  While, I'm glad for my training and education in the field, I'm still happy with my decision to discontinue working in it.  I much rather prefer to be on the receiving end.  There's nothing in the world like resting on a table and having someone work through the knots and tightness in your body. 

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     Earlier in pregnancy I was able to get a couple of massages.  I'm dying for another.  It's so wonderful that such a thing exists.  If I had the means I would get one monthly, as it is very good for your overall health.  Oh, how I miss massage school when I would get a massage almost every day.  It was lovely.  Getting a massage puts you out of this world and into your happy place.  My favorite (other than the necessary neck, shoulders, and upper back for me) is to have my legs and feet worked on.  Everybody always forgets about the legs!  When they are being "molded" and relaxed, you remember just how much you use your legs and how all of the unknown stress inside those muscles is being drained away.  Magical.  Can you tell I've thought about this a lot?  :)

I'm thankful for Massages and the relief and relaxation they provide.

Late Church

     I LOVE my church.  Right now I'm loving that our ward doesn't start until 1PM.  It certainly makes it easier for us to get to church on time.  (Not that we aren't sometimes late even though we have extra time to get ready.  Whoops!)  Our area, like some others, is different in the way they change meeting times.  We change times when school starts (so basically September).  Since we moved into the ward after the change had already been made last year, we were quite a bit early the first Sunday it changed.  :)  With our little one on the way, I think I'm even more appreciative that church will start later for us when she's born.  Though it's going to make changing to 9AM difficult.

I'm thankful we have Late Church because it allows for a little extra sleep-in time and more time to be on time.

“Hair style is the final tip-off whether or not a woman really knows herself.” Hubert de Givenchy

     I have really long hair.  I love it long.  Years ago, it used to be short.  I did not love it then.  You can't do much with short hair.  At least, I was never able to.  It's always been my opinion that longer hair is better because I get so bored of the same hairstyle over and over again.  (Except for now, as I wear it in a bun pretty much every day unless we go somewhere....like church.)  When I do my hair, I usually just dry, curl, and go.  Occasionally, I'll flat iron, it all depends on my mood.  I love that I have the options.

     I really would like to get more creative with my tools and see what fun things I can do.  However, I'm glad that at least can do what I can.  Can you imagine rolling your hair every night like they used to?  FOR-EV-ER!!!  Or putting the iron on the fire to heat it up?  That always makes me think of this scene in Little Women.

I'm thankful for my Hair Styling Tools because they help make me feel complete with my hair and it also makes it so much easier to do my hair.

“The best thing is to look natural, but it takes makeup to look natural” Calvin Klein

     While my husband says that I look beautiful without make up and prefers me that way (Is it hard to see why I love him so?  I think not.), I still like to don myself with a little extra coverage to feel like I've erased any minor or large blemishes.  I know my Heavenly Father didn't make any mistakes, but I believe that he also blessed us with challenges.  Makeup helps my facial challenges seem less dominant. 

     This might look like a lot of Makeup, but I don't use half of it most of the time.  I still like the natural flare that foundation, mascara, and blush give me and most days I don't add much to that except maybe some eyeliner.  For days and nights I'm feeling the need to be a little extra fun and fancy, I try to experiment a little with eye shadow.  I don't have amazing cosmetic skills so the experimenting is quite minimal.  My first experience with Makeup was when I was in dance, but then people were applying it for me and I had no idea what was really getting done.  I still wish I knew some of the cool tricks I see girls do with their eyelids.  As I got older, my mom finally let me start wearing lipstick.  I would say this was a mistake and that I should have gone for the mascara first, as I'm quite pale looking and this did nothing to help.  Honestly, I feel like I'm still figuring out what colors are best for me and I think most women and girls are that way.    Here's to a lifetime of figuring out the best way to make ourselves look pretty!  :)

I'm thankful for Makeup because it gives me that added boost of confidence when I put it on.

"Actually, I wear the nail polish to hide how grubby my nails are." Caroline Corr

    I don't really consider myself a girly girl.  I really don't care for the color Pink.  I grew up playing with four brothers, legos, G.I. Joes, and nerf guns more than I did with my dolls.  However, that's not to say that I am or ever was a tomboy.  I still had my Mom and plenty of girl friends who had a large influence on me.  One of the ways that us ladies can feel pretty and girly/womanly is painting our nails.

     I love having an array of colors in my arsenal to choose from.  There's a long way to go before I have all the colors I want.  My sister-in-law thinks I'm weird for having a bunch of different colors other than the span of pinks to reds she has.  My mom is really into neutral colors.  I, however, am a rebel.  :)  My personality is to big for one color range.  The big can behind all of my colors is a spray that helps the polish to quick dry.  LOVE IT!!!  When I first bought some I got the smaller can.......it ran out and I bought the bigger one.  I love to paint my nails according to holidays, seasons, and special occasions.  Like the time I endured the color Pink to celebrate finding out we are having a girl.  It's just so much fun and it makes me feel pretty.  Especially right now, being pregnant, and not having a whole lot energy to always take a shower and get ready every day.  This makes me feel a little bit more like I've tried, without having to do much.  Soon, I'm going to have to invest in getting regular pedicures as it's increasingly more difficult to reach my toes. 

I'm thankful for Nail Polish because it makes me feel more female and pretty and it's fun!