Brother and Sister

 Brother and sister,

together as friends,

 ready to face

whatever life sends.

 Joy and laughter

or tears and strife,

 holding hands tightly

as we dance through life.

Happy Birthday, Rufus!

We celebrated Rufus' FIFTH birthday on January 14, 2014.  Rufus is getting up there in age!   I woke up early and did a little decorating and baking.  We had a yummy home-made dinner, followed by singing, blowing out candles in Rufus' cake, and digging in face first (quite literally!).

I brought home balloons with me from work and the kids loved them.  Rudy kept saying, "Happy Doe!"  Instead of singing, "wee, wee, wee, wee, weeee," Rudy has graduated to "Happy, Happy Haaaaapy Doe."

And anyone that came over the next couple days was sure to hear about Rufus' birthday.  "Doe Doe Happy! Weee weee happy Doe blowing candle noise Yay!!  Hat!"  -- we aren't quite to speaking in sentences yet :)

"Rudy, you look ridiculous"

And if you think celebrating a dog's birthday is ridiculous, just wait until you read about our latest party… 

Baby Boy

This pregnancy is going so fast... too fast! 

We had our anatamy scan sonogram last week (on Day 2 of the cold streak... but nothing was keeping me from seeing our baby on the big screen...)

John and I have joked about how telling this particular sonogram (and others) have been of our kid's personalities.  The anatomy scan is pretty intense when it comes to what the tech is checking for.  She has to get measurements of so much stuff, and pictures of everything (heart, all four heart chambers, kidneys, spine, brain, arms, hands, legs, feet, mouth, nose, umbilical chord, placenta... I could go on and on). 

Rudy was a stinker.  She ended up getting all but one thing she needed, but she had to work for it.  Even that Rudy was a boy wasn't too easy.  His legs were crossed, but just enough to still give us the view we were looking for.  And we had to go back for another sonogram 4 weeks later to finish up.  Then when I was past my due date and getting sonograms regularly to monitor things, Rudy was flashing a peace sign at us -- I was so miserable and we were SO anxious for him to come, we couldn't help but laugh that he was just hangin' out -- "Peace, guys!"   

Then Avery.  Sweet Avery.  The scan was a breeze and she almost immediately showed us she was a girl, "no doubt about it."  When her arm would be in the way of something, the tech would say, "If she would just move that arm..." and almost as if she could hear us, she would move her arm.  That happened a couple times.  In general it just went so smoothly.  The tech joked, "You're going to have a good baby!"  I remember asking her to put that in writing. 

And Baby Boy?  Well he is for sure Baby BOY and the tech was again in disbelief at how easy it was!  She was able to find all she needed so easily.  She commented, "I feel bad this is my 'scan' for the day - I feel like I should take another!"  He was so wiggly - showing off his kicks, punches, rolling abilities.  He had his hand by his face at one point and we could see him opening his mouth, like he was trying to chew on his hand... we may have a thumb sucker with this one!  John and I were both glued to the screen.  It was incredible seeing him so active. 

Here are his "first" pictures:

Profile

 Profile with his hand in his mouth

 Another profile

 Baby's body all cozied up… legs tucked in, hands by his face

 Front view of his face, belly, and little legs curled up

 His arm… and is that a 'thumbs up'?? :)

 And our confirmation "It's a Boy!" shot

Unfortunately, I do have to go back for another sonogram around 30 weeks (but sort of fortunately, because we will get a peak at Baby Boy again).  My placenta was closer to my cervix than they like to see at this point.  The tech and the doctor acted like it was no big deal.  There is still time for it to move, and as I get larger it should move on it's own no problem.  I looked it up online when we got home (couldn't resist).  If my placenta is too close and stays where it is, I won't be able to deliver naturally, I'd have to have a c-section (they never tell you this stuff in the doctor's office… understandably so, in order to not cause unnecessary worry, but I like to know what's going and and why!).  If that's the worst thing that happens, I'd take it, but I'd really like to do this like I've done before (as hard as it's been, I think it'd still be better than the alternative -- well, the recovery part at least).  But the tech really did not seem concerned considering where my placenta is located in general.  It's low and under the baby (which also means there isn't much cushion blocking any of baby's movements ... explains a lot!).  So they are going to re-check at 30 weeks and see if it's moved... finger-crossed!     

If it's not one thing it's another...

A few weeks ago my sister-in-law called to tell me that she had Fifths Disease and I needed to be tested.  Long story, short, if I had contracted the disease and passed it to the baby, I could face some serious complications (all of which were minimal chances, but chances nonetheless).  The good news was that if I've had Fifths Disease in the past, then I was immune.  I had to have a blood test that would be able to tell whether I've ever had it, and if it was recent or not.  The lab nurse said, "Oh you are getting the popular test.  I've taken blood about 5 times just this week for this.  Must be going around."  The test took a WEEK to get results... good thing I have 2 kids keeping me so occupied... and thankfully, it came back that I was immune and must have had it long before... phew!  But who knew?  Fifths Disease, really?  And how scary is that?  The symptoms are generally the same as a common cold, with possibly a rash and body aches (sometimes severe which is when a trip to the doctor usually comes and the diagnosis is made)… most people don't even know they have it, which is fine because it's a virus and there is nothing to treat it anyway.  It just has to pass through your system.  The way colds travel around this time of year, and having been pregnant for three winters now, I'm surprised I had never heard any warning signs of Fifths Disease until now..  But very thankful I don't need to worry about it!

Also, when I was around 17 weeks, (this may be too much TMI so pass over this paragraph if you prefer!!) I was 95% sure I lost my mucus plug, or at least a good-sized piece of it.  I called the doctor's office and the nurse just said, "It was likely just mucusy discharge" and basically hung up.  Luckily I had an appointment a couple days later or I would have been calling right back!  I looked it up online (just couldn't resist) and found that it can re-grow itself within a few days and it was no big deal... OR... labor started within days.  The doc checked me out and my cervix was still intact and I didn't have an infection.  Again, long story, short, he wasn't concerned.  He did mention something could happen up until 20 weeks where it would become detached (I was sort of confused and was getting a lot of information at once to really even ask questions at this point), but as long as I made it until then and didn't have cramping or bleeding, then nothing to worry about.  Again, good thing I have 2 kids and it was Christmas season, which is such a busy time, to keep me occupied from worrying those few weeks.  And fortunately, I didn't notice any problems and I'm 22 weeks and going strong! 

If this had been my first pregnancy, I would probably have freaked out about each of these things.  I guess I just hope for the best and try not to worry too much in between.  And if something comes up, we will figure it all out then.  But, ya know, a few extra prayers for another healthy, happy baby wouldn't hurt :)  

After having two pretty standard, pretty much by the book pregnancies and healthy babies, it's scary to know that the alternative is not too uncommon and could happen to anyone, anytime.  Having been a mom (or a pregnant lady) for over 3 years now, I tend to read more blogs/articles/books/etc about children and it seems like every time I turn around, someone or some baby is going through something difficult.  I know if we were in those shoes we would handle it the best we could and we would have an amazing support team as well, but I guess my point is, I am very appreciative of the cards we have been dealt thus far.  We are certainly blessed beyond words and I pray that continues.  And I am trying to not let my head wonder and worry about all the "what-ifs" because that can't help or change anything should those what-ifs turn into what-is.  And truth is… they aren't in the clear once they are born.  There will always be things to worry about!  But I guess that's just part of being a mom, right?  :)       

Brrrrrrr...

Quite the blizzard/winter storm passed through our area about a week ago.  It was COLD!  And lots and lots of snow covered everything. 

The snow started falling early Sunday morning.  We were up, dressed and ready to go to our first mass of the new year.  And then the snow started.  We contemplated just staying home, but decided since we would be house-bound for likely a few days, it was probably in our best interests to get out now while we could! 

And I'm glad we did!  The kids did well at mass and Rudy was really into it.  He was so curious with everything going on and even kept his hands "praying" for a lot of it.  (And since then, he randomly folds his hands and says, "See me!")  We ran into some friends and decided to get breakfast afterwards.  Pretty successful trip out! 

Couldn't leave without stopping to play some games first...

Then we were back home and had our first living room fire! 

It was so cozy ... listening to the fire and watching the snow fall...

Due to the snow and wind, the roads were horrible.  Plows had to stop in the late afternoon because visibility was so bad and their efforts were worthless with all the blowing.  Add that to -45-50 degree wind chill temps, and we were officially "snowed in"!  All the area schools were closed and several offices/stores/etc all closed for the day on Monday, too. 

So what to do on a snow day???  Make snow ice cream, of course!!

It was quite a hit with the kids... we made 2 batches that day.  One for a mid-morning snack and again for dessert.  Rudy got a kick out of mixing the ingredients, watching me gather snow, and then getting to mix in the snow.  Not to mention eating it right after!  And I will say, it was actually really good!  I finished off half of it probably :)  

And insist that your child wear pants (even if he wants them rolled up to look like shorts!)

Snuggle in cozy corner (I think Avery stayed in her pajamas every day for almost 3 days... why change when that was probably the warmest thing she could wear comfortably??)

We also did some art projects...

We had a few cozy, simple, lazy days stuck inside.  It was nice... but even nicer when the temps rose and we could get out again! 

2014: Here We Come!

We ended 2013 with a pizza party at home with Gran and Papa (Dad had to work -- he was sad to miss the big night!)

When the kids woke up from their naps, we got out our "New Year's Party Box" - filled with hats, necklaces, noise makers, and confetti. 

Disclaimer:  Rudy had changed into a new pair of pajamas during his nap.  This was actually his third outfit for the day - not pajamas from the night before :)

After baths it was time for our champagne (i.e. sparkling grape juice) toast and popcorn.

Thumbs up!  Rudy was quite the fan of the "cheers"-ing and the juice.  Something tells me this one is going to be a partier.

The next day we had a little New Year celebration with some friends.  We had lunch at the Allotey's -- and we brought our party box along -- followed by bowling with them and the Leonard's.

It started out normal lighting, but by the 2nd or 3rd frame it changed to the "cosmic bowling" -- lights went out, neon lights and black lights were on and loud music.  The kids loved it -- dancing all over, showing off their moves, having snacks, rolling balls… what's not to love?  Rudy was SO loving it.  We play a game at home called "Roll the Ball" where we sit on the floor facing each other and roll a ball back and forth.  We have also bowled at Scheels before.  But this was in a whole new league.  As soon as we got home, he wanted to go back.  Avery's curiosity was peaked.  She didn't want to be held or contained.  She walked all over, checking everything out.  She was definitely digging the scene, too. 

The whole crew

Our goals for the new year:

• Make a better effort at getting to mass on Sundays.  I say "better effort" because I don't want to set ourselves up for failure and say "go to mass."  I'm trying to be realistic.  We have 2 young kids, soon to be 3 under the age of 3, and some weeks it just won't work out.  But we are going to do our best to make it a habit to take the kids to mass regularly.  It will be good for all of us.

• Plan meals, preferably healthy and with variety.  We have gotten into a bad habit of being short-order cooks.  We use our microwave too much and everyone eats something different.  I think if we planned our meals, made an effort to be health conscious and have a variety, we would save money and introduce the kids to new foods -- instead of the chicken nugget/mac and cheese cuisine we frequently serve.  

• Live more simply.  Cut back, save more money, and don't use what we don't need.

• Recognize that these next few years are going to be very challenging when it comes to having time to do things other than raising kids.  Kids under the age of, I don't know, 5 (??) are pretty dependent.  Just because we don't do things "this year," doesn't mean we never will.  Like we will probably pass on a Derby party this year and a family vacation.  Both things I'd like to "always do" -- but let's be realistic, our lives are hectic enough right now and we can't do it all.

• Acknowledge birthdays.  This is a personal goal of mine.  I want to keep better track of my family and friend's birthdays.

• Finish the little things and build a big thing.  There are several little things around the house/yard that keep getting ignored.  Things that don't "have" to be done, but should be.  And we want to focus on building a garage this summer/fall -- that's our big thing.

• One kid project a week.  I'd like to plan and prep one project with the kids a week -- art project, game, activity… something besides the ordinary.

• Date-Night.  Realistically, I'd be happy with 4-6 date nights this year.  We seem to only get out of the house together without the kids when we have to -- which isn't a bad thing because those "have to"s are usually for fun things, like weddings, parties, etc -- but it'd be nice to go out to dinner or see a movie, just the two of us, just because.

• Let go of the "Mom Guilt."  This kind of relates to other goals I mentioned above.  But put simply, remind myself that I am doing the best I can in the situation we are in and be proud of all that I do do and not focus on what I can't seem to get done.

• Potty train one child, maybe even two.

• Read more books and less Facebook statuses.

Things we are looking forward to in the new year:

• Welcoming Baby #3.

• Rudy starting pre-school (he's growing up too fast).

• My 1st annual 29th birthday.

Christmas, Christmas, and More Christmas

We started our Christmas circuit with a day at the Cicci's the weekend before Christmas.  Ray and LeeAnn were going to Iowa for the week, so we wanted to celebrate with them before they left.  

Our second, and last, Christmas as a family of four.

Anxiously waiting for Isabela to arrive and playing with Grandma's decorations in the meantime.

We had lots of fun opening presents.  The kids could hardly stand waiting, but they did a good job being patient until after dinner.

Playing with Avery's new make-up mirror.  Avery knew just what to do with that little comb.

Suiting up in his new fireman outfit, just like Dad.

So proud of himself.

Avery snuck into a stash of presents when no one was looking, sneaky little girl.

Trying out his new scooter, with his fireman boots that he refused to take off.

Monkey see, monkey do...

Check out Isabela's new zike… its a scooter/bike combo - stand like a scooter, but pedal like a bike…pretty intense.

Next up was the Ballweg family Christmas party on Christmas Eve Eve.  It's always nice to see our family that we don't get to see as often and spend some time together.  The kids had a lot of fun and so did we!

We had a simple Christmas Eve and I loved everything about it.  We woke up to a note and present from Howie.  He also came prepared to bake cookies to leave out for Santa that night.

Rudy was loving the apron and hat, especially that he was just like Howie, and didn't take it off all morning.

We opened our present from Howie together.  He brought us each a pair of coordinating pajamas, a movie, hot chocolate, cookies, and personalized hot chocolate cups.  He knew what we would be doing that night!  

We got to work decorating and baking cookies for Santa with all the supplies Howie brought...

Avery liked to shake and eat the sprinkles.

So proud of his creations.  And sure to give Santa a sugar overload!

John and Rudy also designed a special plate for Santa's cookies.  Thanks to Pinterest, I learned that Sharpies can be used to draw on ceramic plates and then baked on (and it actually worked!) -- can't beat a $2 plate from Wal-Mart for a one-of-a-kind Christmas plate. 

Lots and lots of cookies...

Luckily we had prepped for the night before Christmas the weeks before.  Everything was wrapped and put together.  I wasn't feeling well all afternoon (I assumed it was because I ate grilled chicken for lunch, which has not been good for me this pregnancy), but about 10:30 it was a full on flu.  Avery had had the flu a few days before and I'm not surprised I ended up sick, too - considering I was the target of her projectile vomit each and every time she got sick.  I was feeling better the next morning, still a bit queasy but good enough to enjoy the morning.  And by mid afternoon I was good to go!  So here is a snapshot of our living room all set up… John was definitely the MVP.

and stockings hung in a row...

and a close-up of our pretty tree...

Christmas morning we got the kids up and everyone was SO excited!  We took a quick family "selfie" before heading out to the living room.  

All the presents were quite a hit!  

Rudy's sunglasses were one of the first gifts he opened and he didn't take them off for most of the rest of his present opening.

Thumbs up, Mom!

Avery was excited by it all.  She would open something and want to play with it a bit before moving on to the next.

But not Rudy.  He takes after his mom in her younger years.  He'd quickly unwrap, barely even see what he had opened, and want to move on to the next.  He ended up helping Avery open the rest of her presents because he went through his so fast.

Oh wow!  A Big Girl seat of my own!

The train table was a big hit and still is.  And thank goodness because it was so much work for us!  We had the table as a hand-me-down that Ray had originally built for the Keough's.  It had to be remodeled a bit, so John took care of that (removing some boards, sanding, repainting).  I put the top board in the bathroom to build the tracks.  I thought I had ordered and bought enough but after time spent during a 2-hour nap time the week before Christmas, I realized I was short a few of those tiny curved pieces… talk about frustrating!  Thank goodness for Amazon 2-day shipping!  Two days later and another couple hours and I had the darn thing assembled.  The plan was for me to take the kids out of the house for a couple hours (and we were cutting it close to Christmas by now) and John was going to get the table out and screw in the tracks so it couldn't be torn apart in minutes.  Welllll… upon trying to get the top out of the bathroom we realized it was not going to fit out the door.  Sooo we had to dump the whole thing and John had to start all over (at least he had a visual and knew all the pieces were there!, but it still took about an hour to get it together).  Then when he went to add screws, it split the wood -- one of the tiny curved pieces I didn't have more of.  John was able to work it out and we ended up gluing the whole thing down instead.  What a headache!  But worth it!!    

Avery finally got her chance with the new sunglasses :)

Double-thumbs up!

Gran, Papa, Uncle Tony and Patrick joined us early for breakfast and more presents (I think its safe to say that the kids should be entertained for awhile!).  We had a delicious breakfast of biscuits and gravy, bacon, and cinnamon rolls.  The kids were big fans of the cinnamon rolls!

Avery and Uncle Tony's first tea party

Throughout the afternoon the Minella's, DiLoreto's, Sames', and Sames' made their way to our house.  We had a great time spending time together, opening presents and having a nice dinner.  John cooked up a couple different varieties of lasagna (and they were awesome!), Papa made a beautiful ham, Uncle Dave Minella the Great made a delicious salad, and the Sames', Minella's, and DiLoreto's all brought desserts… we had plenty to go around!

We all ate together in the library with our first fire!  It was beautiful ...

And no party is a party without a break-out dance party -- never imagined our library turning into a dance floor, but it worked!

Rudy was soaking it up.  He LOVED the energy, excitement and fun of it all.  He was groovin' right along, giving "elbows" and high fives, and just hamming it up in general.  And Avery was happy and playing well with all her new toys (I could actually sneak away for a few minutes at a time!).  

Notice the similarities of their outfits?  Rudy insisted on wearing the same as "Toe-Toe"

I've never seen Rudy act so sad when everyone had to leave.  He may not want people to go, but he usually is ok to say bye and give hugs.  This night he sat on the couch, covered his eyes with his hands and pouted, "No go."  (It might have something to do with us not making him go to bed and it was wayyy past his bedtime)

 On a side note -- Not only did the kids get lots of new toys and clothes, but thanks to everyone's generosity, we were also able to deposit over $1,000 into their college funds!

And to end our week of Christmas celebrations, we spent a day at the Cicci's with Aunt Nicolette, Daniel, and Mark, who made an impromptu decision to come to Springfield, but were only able to stay for less than 24 hours!  We played, ate and ate, decorated Gingerbread Houses, and opened up even more presents!  

Avery was so happy when she woke up before Rudy one morning and had the boots to herself...

We really lucked out this year.  We got to see just about all of our family, and spend time with everyone.  It never felt hectic or rushed.  The kids were good, happy, and even though we were swimming in wrapping paper and packaging at times, I honestly feel like I got to enjoy the moments we were in and have a peaceful, fun-filled, Christmas season.  It was the best Christmas yet.

And to top it off... when I was rocking Avery to sleep on Christmas night, I felt our little baby kicking for the first time.  It brought tears to my eyes.  What great timing.

John and I have loving, fun, and thoughtful family and friends.  We have the greatest kids ever.  And we have each other.
We are so blessed.