Oh Baby!

My last 3 pregnancies I have been considered high risk due to a genetic condition I have called Factor V, Leyden MTHFR. It causes excessive clotting in the blood, and was one of the main contributing factors to the Pulmonary Embolism that I had after Ian's birth. 

It also means that I am at risk for a small baby (we know that hasn't proven true), and placenta issues. 

 As a result I have lots more screening that has to occur to give the doctors some peace of mind. The recommendation is that I come in 2 times weekly for Non Stress Tests (NST) and BPP's (bio physical profile). I told them that I would consent to one test a week but I did not want to do 2.
It really goes against all my beliefs of just letting pregnancy progress, and letting the baby be. In addition they are highly recommending that I stop my medication and then get an induction. Last time they would not take no for an answer, so I scheduled the induction then just didn't show up.
Unless there is a medical reason, I plan to let him come when he is supposed to come.

 As a result of all these ultrasounds we have gotten to see our little one's 3D image. He always has a hand up by his face so we have not gotten a super clear image. It is fun to see his cute little cheeks but we still wonder if he will have the infamous Slocum dimples. I used to try to give myself dimples by pressing my fingers into my cheeks and sucking in my cheeks. I never got any, but all 7 of my children and my husband have dimples. I get to enjoy all the dimples around me instead of having some I can't see.

Here, he has a cute little pout, and furrowed brows. I am getting excited to meet him, hold him, kiss his sweet cheeks and nurse this little guy. I can't wait to see if he is as active outside as he is on the inside. I remember when they told me that my placenta was attached on the front and that I probably wouldn't feel my baby move much. I was very disappointed. However, God allowed me the joy of feeling him. Not only that, but I can watch my belly move. I get so excited that I want to tell everyone else to watch too!
I am officially 37 weeks. The countdown begins.

Pizza and Movie Night

We used to do Pizza and movie night every week. it was a tradition that my children really looked forward to. However, as the children have grown, I found that I had to make so many pizzas, it was too much for me for awhile. I recently found another pizza crust recipe that we like and is SO.MUCH.SIMPLER to make that we re-instituted pizza and movie night. 

I like it because we eat the pizza while we watch the movie and then bedtime is just that much earlier, and there is not very much kitchen clean up. I have also learned to stop the movie with about 10 minutes left and make sure that everyone is completely ready for bed (PJ's, teeth brushed, gone to the bathroom) so that when the movie is over they can go to bed. 

When did we get to the place of one pizza per person? 

I have 2 children that are gluten free and one of those is dairy free as well so I have begun to purchase their crusts and freeze them to have on hand.

My Favorite Pizza Crust Recipe (more difficult)
Mix:
1/3 Cup Shortening
1 Cup Milk
1 tsp Salt
1/2 Cup Sugar
Heat in a small pan on the stove until shortening is melted.
Add 1 beaten egg to the warm mixture and refrigerate until cool.
Meanwhile, mix
1 tsp Yeast
1 tsp Sugar
1/2 Cup warm water and let yeast rise
Add to the cooled shortening mixture and add 5-6 cups of flour, knead well. Roll out on greased pizza stone and let rise.
Bake at 350 until slightly brown then add toppings and bake until the cheese is melted.

Good Pizza Crust (super easy)
I tend to prefer thick crust pizza, however this crust, in my opinion, is much better rolled thin.
1 1/2 cups warm water
1 tsp yeast
4 cups flour
1 tsp salt
1/3 cup olive oil
Dissolve the yeast in the warm water, mix flour and salt together.  Add the flour mixture to the yeast and slowly add the oil. Let rise, punch down and divide and roll out on a greased pizza stone. Add toppings and Bake at 450 for about 10 minutes.

Both recipes make 2 crusts. I typically triple them, then add the 2 gluten free crusts. Often,  I let each person top their own pizza, then they can eat as much as they want, and have the rest for lunch the next day. I usually feel bad because the gluten free-ers never have left overs and Aaron won't have any the next day while the girls and I have our lunches covered.

Baby Bump

After our Anniversary trip we stopped at Old Navy so that I could get a couple skirts to help extend my wardrobe for the next few weeks. Sean saw the model and laughed at her "baby bump". Granted, this time around I am much larger than I have ever felt before.

Pregnant model at Old Navy

 Complete with new stretch marks, measuring at least 3 weeks over my actual dates, varicose veins and heartburn that I have never experienced before. For the first time ever, in my whole life, I am having trouble sleeping. Anytime I am tempted to complain, I remember how blessed I am to get to do this again. I have so many women in my circle of friends who are unable to have babies. The reasons are as varied as the women, infertility, health issues, miscarriage, and unwilling husbands. My heart breaks for them. Yet, it helps me to keep perspective on what a huge responsibility and gift this baby is.

Me, 7 months pregnant at Old Navy

After Liberty was born, I was torn about completely trusting God with our family size. We always had, but her birth along with the 2 prior were tough and traumatic. After her birth I struggled with anxiety. I clung to the verse Philippians 4:6-7 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving present your requests to God, and the Peace of God, which passes all understanding shall guard your heart and mind in Christ Jesus.
I began praying for an answer. Then my hormones took a dive. I started to really struggle with rage, and contentment. After a visit to my naturopath, I discovered that I had ZERO progesterone in my system. I was elated! Not only was there a reason for my crazy moods, but I was officially in menopause which meant no more pregnancy and no more birth. It also meant no more babies, but a very clear answer to prayer.

Almost 8 months.

It was strange being in a different place. I was no longer the woman with all the little kids. All my children were potty trained, sleeping through the night and we actually make progress when we go berry picking. I finally took down and gave away my crib. I filled my fall and winter with births. I love being with pregnant women. Helping them, supporting them, and cuddling with their delicious newborns. I couldn't deny that my desire for another baby in my arms was pretty strong. I knew that it wasn't possible. Still, every month I found myself hoping that by some miracle I might be pregnant. I knew that would involve a certain amount of anxiety, lots of Lovenox shots, and Birth, but it also meant a baby. 

So I prayed, "Lord, please either fulfill this desire for a baby, or take it away!" I really expected Him to take the desire away, I mean that is the most logical answer. The following week I had some bleeding, like 6 hours one day. I was annoyed and the only thought I had was, "I wonder what that was all about?" 

The next month I found my self sick, extremely tired and tender. When I finally convinced myself to take a pregnancy test I was shocked. The only thing I could do was bring that little stick with the 2 lines on it downstairs and set it on the counter in front of Sean. I had absolutely no idea what his reaction was going to be. He looked at it, then looked at me and grinned great big. We decided to keep it a secret for a few weeks ( I am not one for secrets) but it was fun to have him call during the day and say, "We are having a baby!" or whisper, "You're pregnant". I feel like this baby had truly brought us closer together. I'm still not sure the reality of it has fully hit me, but for now I am determined to enjoy the bliss of these final 6 weeks of pregnancy. Praise God from whom all blessings come!

Five Guys Burgers and Fries

This pregnancy has been difficult for the family as far as meals are concerned. Not too long ago, I just couldn't find any motivation to make dinner. Sean offered to make something for dinner when he got home. However, we got to talking and couldn't come up with anything quick and easy. 

"Does that come with Bacon?"

 The children suggested that we, "Go out for dinner." This made us laugh, because we rarely go out and it isn't exactly in our budget.
The boys fascination with Five Guys Burgers and Fries began last summer when they won 2 $25 gift certificates to Five Guys. They used the certificates when they went on a fishing trip with Papa and Granddad. Ever since then, the girls have wanted to go too.

Aaron taking care of Liberty

 I told the children, "I'm sorry we just can't." Aaron replied, "I can pay for me and Liberty."
Taylor said, "Yes! I will pay for me and Ian." and Erik chimed in, "I will pay for me and Ruby." So Papa said,"Great! I will pay for me and Mama!"
I have never seen the children move so quickly to get coats and shoes on and get buckled in the BRV. That may have been that it was after 7 and they were starving, however I think it was more likely motivated by the desire for a good burger.

Waiting for the food, so that they can serve others. 

 It was surprising to me how different each child acted when they were responsible for another sibling. Aaron carried Liberty in, helped her choose her meal, and then served her meal to her. Erik held the door for Ruby. When Ruby was disappointed that they were going to share a drink, he put his arm around her and walked her up to the register and bought  her her own drink.
Taylor was completely generous and let Ian order whatever he wanted, even the adult meal complete with fries and a drink. When Ian needed a napkin or ketchup she was quick to get it for him.

Ruby got her very own soda

 I also found it interesting that they wanted to sit with the person they purchased dinner for. There was no arguing over who was going to sit where, or if it wasn't their turn to get napkins. When Liberty ordered her junior bacon cheese burger she asked the cashier if it came with bacon. The cashier laughed and assured her that it did. Then, when Ruby ordered her junior bacon cheese burger, she said, "With Bacon." and confirmed, "Does that come with bacon?"
I guess we don't go out enough to know that a bacon cheese burger comes with bacon.
I loved my bacon cheese burger and Coke with lime. Of course, no outing would be complete without a spill. True to form, Liberty spilled her drink. It was completely out of character however that Aaron grabbed the napkins and started cleaning up the mess.
Each person spent right about $20. They were happy and cheerful to do so, and it was a fun evening.

The younger children were very gracious and said Thank you a dozen times. 

I never want to forget the generosity and compassion that I saw from my children. I feel like we got a glimpse of how they will treat their future spouses. It gave me hope. My boys showed that chivalry is not dead. AND I got a night off from dinner. 

Seventeen Years

 Last weekend Sean and I went away for 4 whole days to celebrate 17 years of marriage. Much thanks to my momm for watching the children so we could get away.

View from our room

 We never really 'dated' in fact, he asked me to marry him on our first date. We spent time together getting to know each other. Mostly at work and Bible Study. When we were engaged we lived 300 miles apart so this kept things pretty simple as far as how we expressed our love and commitment.

I was actually able to zip up Sean's coat.
However, he had to strap on my snowshoes for me. 

 This simplicity hasn't changed much over the past 17 years. I would say that in most things I am pretty low maintenance, while others I imagine that high maintenance would be a more accurate description. I knew that I really wanted to go away for our anniversary so I planned a little get away to Lake Chelan. I knew that we couldn't do anything too strenuous or thrilling, being 7 months pregnant and all.

Another photo to add to our collection of foot photos. 

 I planned for us to go Snowmobiling and Snowshoeing. However, when we got to Lake Chelan there was very little snow around. When I called to reserve the snowmobiles the man said that he hadn't rented them out at all this year.
We persevered and found enough snow to go snowshoeing. We did a 5K trail, and took it slower than I cared to admit. It was great to get out and be together in the fresh air and sunshine. It was fun to talk about the baby (names), plans for our future, where we have come from and where we want to go.

Gotta love that smile. 

 I especially loved not having to plan meals, or feed anyone else. We took advantage of the complimentary breakfast and hot soup, sandwiches and bread for dinner. The lady that served dinner was gracious and gave us the fresh hot cookies and ice cold milk. Although milk was not out for everyone, she had pity on me.
There was a Keurig in the room and about 18 pillows on the bed ~ Heaven for this pregnant mama.

Pregnancy cravings

 Sean was very accommodating with my choice of snacks.
We explored the local book stores, thrift stores, and restaurants for lunch. We slept in, watched a movie, a beautiful sunset over the lake, tried out the hot tub, and had time to rest, reconnect and feel amazingly refreshed.

Smooching

  On our snowshoeing adventure we came across 8 deer in a ravine just below us. They stopped and stared at us for the longest time.

Better Together 

The last 17 years have been a crazy ride. Some really difficult and more wonderful. Growing in our walk with God and each other. We are learning to be focused less on ourselves and more on each other.  I could not have asked for a better man to do life with. Looking forward to what's to come.

Baby Bump

It's difficult to know where to start when I have not blogged since September! I will give a quick update of my baby belly. 

October 2013

 Sean and I were both shocked and ecstatic to learn that we would be adding another baby to our family. I had morning sickness until about 24 weeks. I really think attitude has a lot to do with how I deal with it. Every time I was tempted to be discouraged or frustrated about my lack of appetite or ability to keep anything down I remembered how blessed I am to be able to carry a baby again.

October 2013

 The injections are part of it for me, the bruising isn't fun. Especially when my children seem to find the prime spot to bump, and bump it constantly. Again, just part of keeping me and baby healthy.

November 2013

 I am trying to be purposeful in documenting the growing belly, but since I am the one with the camera it seems vain to ask someone to take my photo. I am also terrible at the whole self portrait thing, so you will have to take what you can get!
I was sad when my doctor told me that I probably would not feel the baby move much since my placenta was attached on the front of my uterus. I could stare at my belly all day and I love it when other people want to feel the baby move. To my delight once I felt the baby move I have the privilege of feeling it all the time.

December 2013
The tag says: "Do not open until April 12, 2014"

 My children love to feel and will even compete over whose turn it is. Liberty is in love and will greet my belly before she hugs or kisses me. Sean, who has always been a bit freaked out by the baby is enjoying it more this time too. I love that. He likes to talk to the baby and see how close the baby comes to kicking him. We have a pretty accurate little one in there.

January 2014

 At my 30 week appointment I was already measuring 37 weeks and the ultrasound showed that the baby was 97%. The doctor made sure that I understood math and told me "That means that only 3% of babies are bigger than yours."
Yes, I understand. I talked them out of making me drink the horrible glucose drink and for my gestational diabetes test I ate a cream filled donut, flavored yogurt, and drank a flavored latte. I definitely do not have diabetes.

January 2014

 My initial weight dropped 10 pounds and now I am +10 of my original weight, so that isn't an issue either. I guess small babies just are not in our genes.
I have been reading and re reading Bible verses that discuss fear and what God requires of us instead. I am both eager and excited for labor and birth and paranoid about it. I have done this 7 times! 7 times. I am blessed.

January 2014
My attempt at a Self Portrait

This fall I attended 22 births and taught 3 different classes. Birth is in my blood. I know what I want. I know how I want it to go, who I want attending my birth and even when it would be convenient for the baby to arrive. I know that none of that is ultimately up to me.
For now, I will cherish being pregnant, feeling the baby move and the blessing God has so generously given us.

Goodbye Summer

This summer we discovered some new (to us) and wonderful places to visit. 

Paisley adores Aaron. He is pretty sweet with her too! 

 One of the best is The River. We have been coming to The River since June and have really enjoyed watching how The River changes from visit to visit. It is similar to our beach but different in many ways. The best difference is that it is fresh water, which means that showers are not essential when you return home. It is a rocky beach which means that most of our swim stuff is no longer covered in sand. Win Win in my book!

Ruby and Honor discover more sticks.

 Although the water is cold the children enjoyed floating and really excelled at becoming more confident in the water this summer. Life Jackets were mandatory for the 7 and under crowd. Aaron and Erik loved crawdad fishing and finding many of the river dwelling species.
On our last visit of the season there were hundreds of dead salmon. After talking to some local fisherman we learned that they were spawning. The children lined them up on the riverbank but soon grew tired of that. We identified differences between the different species and even found some salmon eggs. They squished some open and felt them and inspected them.

Some game where Ian "The Protector of the Littles" was defending against Aaron.
It might have been an even match. 

 The only downfall is the constant hunger. Between Jess and I we have 11 kids at home and they all need to eat about 47 times a day. We have finally learned to fill the cooler and place it a fair distance away so everyone can help themselves without asking every 2.4 seconds, "What else can I eat?"

I truly love the life my children are experiencing. 

 I also love the creativity and space at The River. It allows the children a little more freedom without me constantly hovering over them. They are safe to explore and build forts, rock houses, sand (on the far beach) or simply float. All the while they are within sight of me.

Because every 7 year old girl plays with dead fish. 

Still being in the early stages of pregnancy and still feeling quite sick the potty situation was less than ideal. Especially after helping Libby go, I proceeded to puke all over her went. I also had to keep a fair distance from my children that were eating tuna salad.
Otherwise it was ideal to bring my chair down to The River's Edge and soak my feet in the cool water and get up every 45 minutes to dunk under the refreshing water and cool off. Oh how I long to have to cool off again.