Should be....

These are the things I SHOULD be doing while Millie sleeps: (This is my way of making a list)

- Cleaning the kitchen...it's not bad, but it needs to be done before we leave tomorrow! Gotta remember to take my mother-in-law her pie pan back. It's in the dishwasher...dirty. Bottles need to be washed too...surprise, surprise.

- Addressing a card to H with the Similac coupon.

- Emailing Similac to ask WHY they are NOT putting the soy formula in the big tubs. UGH! I already did that once...they said they'd send me a coupon for my patience. They sent me a card for a FREE TUB of formula...WHICH THEY STILL DON'T sell in Soy! Yeesh!

- Putting the folded towels away and hanging up the hang up clothes.

- Getting the beautiful flowers that Clint gave me last week (that are no longer beautiful) ready to take out to the dumpster.

- Doing my hair. I got it cut on Monday. I got bangs. THEY are DRIVING me CRAZY! If I'd actually style it, they may not bug me so badly. But why style when all I am doing is staying home and packing?

- Putting my camera in Millie's Diaper bag so I don't foget it for the big Christmas adventure.

- Mailing one last Christmas card to the Boyd's. Didn't mean to forget them. Oops!

- Checking the bank account for the Sirius charge. I need to write the EXACT amount in my checkbook.

What I am actually doing with the much appreciated nap time that is slowly coming to and end as I type this....

-Writing my blog

-browsing Facebook and contemplating deleting a few peeps

-drinking a Diet Coke

-eating my FAVORITE candy...Ferrero Rocher

-Watching the Doctors

-Reclining in the recliner

It's okay right??? It will all get done! At least I have a list of things to do now!

Enjoying my Christmas break for sure!

Until next time,
Sam

For Real??

October 21st! OCTOBER 21st was my last post. That means that the entire month of November went by without one post documenting the goings on in our lives! I hate that! Between working, traveling, having a 4/5 month old, looking for houses and trying to live the time for sitting down to blog has been used up! I have so many times thought about just deleting this blog and being done with it so the silent pressure of "you need to blog" is no longer on me, but I WANT to have this "family journal" of sorts in the future. So, I press on. And, it's okay if a month passes before I blog again. I'll catch up. I am going to try and make a goal of at least once a week...we shall see!

November: November was a good month. Millie celebrated her 4th month of life and is doing fantastic! She went to the Doctor for her 4 month check up and weighed in at a whopping 15 lbs 8 oz and was 25 1/2 inches long! She is right on target! We started cereal at 4 months which helped very much with her sleeping through the night. She will still wake up and want her passie, but she does very well! She also started rolling over in November too! She is a rolling machine! Thanksgiving was great! We were able to visit family in Tifton and Warner Robins. It was a small taste of what Christmas will be like! Clint finished up the busy football season and I checked a bunch of things off the list at work. We also went several times looking for houses and finally decided to build. The plans have been in the works for a while and we are hitting road bumps left and right but hope to be in by April of 2011! We are so thankful for this opportunity!

Currently I am on Christmas break. That would explain the available time to blog! Clint has 3 more days of work and will be off until Jan 4th! As much as I hate that he has to work nights and we don't see him much, I am more and more thankful for his type of work. It is because of his job that Millie doesn't have to be in fulltime daycare or a daycare center at that. And also, he gets most of his time off at Christmas and Summer which is the same for me making it really special!

We had Clint's parents over this past Sunday night for supper. We enjoyed it very much and love them tons! Millie was great and even helped her Daddy while playing spades. He still lost though! Mommy and Papa won! Woohoo!

The house situation is moving slowly! As much as I am excited about finally being out of this apartment, I am also very thankful that we aren't rushing around during the holidays trying to get stuff done. I am confident that things are going just like they need to be at this point!

Millie is 5 months old now and is SO MUCH FUN! I adore her! She is eating baby food and is an absolute champ at it! She has loved Green Beans, Peas and Sweet potatoes so far. Carrots are next so we shall see. We plan to introduced bananas on Christmas morning! She is SO happy and talks and smiles all the time! Sometimes her happy face just overwhelms me with love and joy that I just can't take it and I cry. I thank the Lord for giving her to us and pray that we do the best job we can...with His help of course!

Christmas is just a few days away! This time last year I was so SICK and really had to strive to enjoy the season. I remember not even being able to decorate the tree last year. I just had to lay flat on the couch and watch Clint do it...i could barely unwrap the ornaments for him. This year was a whole different story. We had Millie in her seat and she watched us decorate the tree. What a special time!

My sister Katy is due any day now with my nephew Wesley! I am so excited I can hardly stand it! My other sister Elizabeth, unfortnately just miscarried her 2nd baby. My heart breaks for her and I so wish she weren't so far away! My other sister Danielle should be flying in tomorrow from Denver! I know I am THRILLED to see her! She is going to be AMAZED at how big Millie is compared to the last time she saw her! I can't wait to see their interaction!

I believe that is all! We are truly loving life and enjoying each day more than the last! God is SO faithful and SO incredibly loving that it blows my mind most of the time!

Here's to ONE more post before 2011!

Until next time,
Sam

To buy...not to buy...to buy...not to buy...

Oh Boy!!! The time has come for Clint and I to get really serious about buying our first home! This was something we wanted to to when we first got married, but everything was SO unsure. My job, his job, location, etc. Of course, all of that is still "unsure" because one never knows what tomorrow will bring, BUT, we have decided to step out on faith and see where it takes us!

I have been pondering taking this step for a while. I had been seeing "the house" on my drive home from work everyday. I would see it, then my mind would start to wander. I would start figuring out financial things in my head and think about Clint's reaction when I told him that I was thinking about it. Finally, (should have started sooner) I began to pray about it. I wanted so badly to make sure this was something the Lord wanted us to do. I've been praying for about a month...

Last week, Clint dropped off Millie with his parents for her first over-night outing. (She did GREAT, by the way) While having a quick lunch with his parents, they mentioned..."you know, you guys should really think about buying a house"...and went on to list the whys. Clint told them that he had really been thinking AND praying about it. When he told me of their conversation and that he had been thinking about it...I was SO thrilled! I know that was of the Lord! Sidenote: I am SO incredibly thakful to have a praying, God-honoring, Husband!

Clint went to the bank yesterday (He is furloughed this week) and had a meeting with a bank person about the first steps of getting a home loan! We both have great credit...(I was shocked about mine...long story!) and would be approved to get a loan at 4%!!!! CRAZY low!

At this point we are figuring out how we are going to come up with the 3.5% down payment, but we know that the Lord will provide.

Let the search begin! We want to make sure that we get THE house that God has for us and our little family!

Until next time,
Sam

Happy 3 Months!

3 months ago today, our sweet Millie joined our family! What an absolute JOY she is to our lives!
She is growing so so much and rather quickly too! She is still eating 4 to 5 ounces every three hours. She has become SO vocal with her little coos that it just makes me smile all the time. She has been pretty regular with going down for the night at 9:30 then up again at 5:00 to eat. I don't mind a bit since I wake up at 5:15 and allow myself a little play time with her before heading off to work. She is BY FAR the happiest bright and early in the morning! She smiles so much and is making eye contact now...I cannot get enough!
Sadly, as of yesterday, she has her very first cold. It hurts my heart to hear her congested. She still manages to offer a smile here and there and is quite the sleepy head. She is now wearing 3 month clothes accross the board. No more 0-3 month clothes! I feel like her closets and dressers have revolving doors...I am constantly moving stuff around...especially now with the change in seasons!
Millie went to her first football game this past Saturday. She went to cheer on her cousin Brandon who is 10. She had a diaper blowout and two outfit changes but even still managed to have a great time!

This Friday is our annual Harvest Fest at school. I am required to be there and an active part of running my booth "Bucket Bonanza" and Clint has to cover a football game, so Millie is off for her FIRST spend the night party with her Nana and Papa T. I know they are thrilled, but I am honestly already sad about it! For a quick, fleeting moment, I thought about how nice it will be to actually sleep in on Saturday morning...but the longer I think about it, the more I KNOW there will be NO sleeping in, just a jump in the car for the hour long road trip to go get our girl!

Saturday we have her 3 month photo shoot scheduled! I can't wait for that! Still trying to figure out which outfits she will wear! SO FUN!

Well, I must run and get some work done! Enjoy this picture from the football game!

Until next time,
Sam

Coolest of the cool

So I got a webcam for my birthday! It is offically hooked up and useable now! I talked to my sister in Germany this morning and showed off Millie to her...incredible! I've talked to my crazy mom twice already today on it...so FUN! I can't wait to talk to my 2 awesome friends from TN and see how they are doing! IT really is just the coolest contraption. I know I may be a few years behind...but you know what they say...better late than never right?

Things are good her in T'ville! Millie is snoozin for the night and I am waiting for the last load of clothes to dry. I am also procrastinating...I need to grade my Science tests and History tests. If I accomplish that tonight I am home free for tomorrow!

Dad and Cindy are coming to visit tomorrow. They will get here right when we get home from church! I can't wait to see them. It has been about a month since they've seen Millie! She has changed SO much!

We have her 3 month photo shoot scheduled for the 16th! I am actively thinking about what she will wear. Clint and I are also going to take a few pictures with Millie, so thinking about matching outfits has me a little excited! So fun!

I sent back all the infected baby formula this morning! Wonder when we'll actually see a check! On my way home from taking the boxes, I spotted a yard sale. I saw a HUGE mound of pink clothes. I knew from the looks of things that they were baby clothes! I found two, practically brand new, outfits for Millie. One from Baby Gap and the other is Carter's brand. They are 3 month warm clothes. Somewhere in the craziness of preparing for Millie, I totally missed the fact that when she would be 3 months old, it would be FALL! I have ONE outfit that isn't short sleeved, tank topped or summery. Must go shopping...what a bummer...NOT! We are still playing with gift cards, so this is the SO FUN type of shopping!

Work has been okay! I had my first experience with "reprimanding" an adult. I've never had to do that before, nor has it been my responsibility before. But Tuesday was the day for me and I HATED every moment of it! I had that SICK feeling all day, but thankfully it was taken well and responded to well by the involved parties. Can't go into too much detail as I am not really sure who reads this! So far, this year has been extremely frustrating on SO MANY levels that there are days when I really wonder what I am doing! I am trying to stay encouraged and not get down, but it is really tough! I REALLY miss 6th grade!

That is about all I can think of at this point. I am giving myself a 30 minute window to complete my grading, fold clothes and get ready for tomorrow! After that...SLEEP!

Much love!
Until next time,
Sam

Whew...

Wow what a week! I feel like I can finally breathe once we make it to Friday night! This has been one crazy, hectic, WEIRD week for sure!

Monday started off with me turning 28! I had an AWESOME birthday! Clint always does so well at making my days special! Got lots of goodies from family and even more from my class! Gift cards, chocolate, cheezits and pretzels...what more could a girl ask for??

Wednesday, as Millie and I made our way back home after church, I called Clint like always. He mentioned something about a Similc recall of formulas that I should check out. Low and behold...the four containers I had for Millie...possibly contaminated with Insect Parts! GROSS! I talked to a nurse (my room mom) about it and she mentioned that Millie would be fine, but not to feed her any more of the containers I had. SO...Clint went off to wally world for the liquid kind of formula until they put the powder back on the shelves. After TWO trips to Walmart at 11 at night...he finally got the right stuff! I call it liquid gold!

Yesterday I found out that my Grandma has a small tumor near her eye that has to be removed Tuesday of next week. They have already done a biopsy and have ruled out cancer, but they say it has to come off. They've also found a questionable spot by her mouth...weird! My mom also informed me Thursday that she has been diagnosed with full blown diabetes....WOW! (She later explained that it was the cause of her forgetfulness lately...like forgetting to call me on my birthday!)

This morning I got pulled over by the po-po and chastised! I wouldn't say I "broke the law", but I think I made him as a person, not as a po-po mad. I pulled out in front of him...but he was going too fast and caught up to me really quickly! THe blue lights started flashing...yikes! He stomped up to my car and said...kind of in a yelling tone "I shouldn't have to slam on brakes to keep from hitting you!!" I stared...he promptly turned and walked away, got in his cruiser and drove off. I was so confused...it was 6:45 in the morning mind you! WEIRD I say!

The day ended with me frantically grading 23 "Insect projects" so they could get them out of my room. Each student had to pin 10 dead bugs to a board and label them! GROSS!!!!

Millie is doing Super! She is snoozing away at the moment, so I think I am going to join her! I have feeding duty on weekends...fun times!

I hope you all have a great weekend!
Until next time,
Sam

Sweetness

It is 9:30 p.m. and my sweet little one is sleeping peacefully. Will she sleep through the night...no probably not...BUT we have conquered the early bed time and I feel amazing!

My mom and Larry were here this weekend. They came in Friday and left about 4 this evening. It was short, sweet and to the point...but so fun! We just hung out Friday night at home and enjoyed staring at Millie and watching every move she made. Today we got up and went to a resturant called Jonah's. It was recently previewed in Southern Living magazine which is what caused my mom to want to go in. It is very small, very quaint but VERY yummy! The best part was the FREE cheesecake I got for it being my birthday celebration.

After a yummy lunch, Clint had to head to the Florida State University football game to cover it for tomorrow's paper. Mom, Larry, Millie and I went to a few shops downtown and then went to Cato to do some birthday shopping for me...three outfits later we were off to Walmart. I did some quick grocery shopping since I had help to carry up my groceries and off we went! It really was a nice weekend!

We are having a HUGE problem with our apartments! HUGE I tell ya! Last months electric bill was $305 and this months is $356...for AN APARTMENT! We are exhausting every possible thing we know to do to figure out what is causing this. The apartment people are not being too helpful and if ONE more person tells me it's because we had a baby I am going to blow a gasket! Hopefully a solution is discovered soon or it is back to Pioneer days for the Thompson family! :)

Work is good...busy, tiring, draining...but good at the same time! Millie's babysitter is WONDERFUl! Clint is the best daddy ever! My mom and grandma are in a pretty big fight at the moment! Millie gets dedicated October 17th! My birthday is Monday! I finished all the laundry today! I am addicted to Teen Mom! Real Housewives of ATL starts October 4th and I couldn't be more excited! Computer is about to die and I am too tired to get up and get the cord....so...

Until next time,
Sam

2 Months!!!

Our sweet Millie is two months old today! I have a two month old!

Things are really great here besides the fact that I am fighting a cold and possibly coming down with an ear infection...ouch!

I have been back to work for 2 weeks and am wondering if I am ever going to get in the "flow" this year. Once everything has it's place in my classroom, I think things will go much smoother! I love my class of 10 year olds and am adjusting to the fact that I am the Grade Level Chair person of the 4th grade...people come to me!

Clint is busy with football season, but we are in a nice flow at home. This flow will last until basketball sneaks it's way into our lives once again.

My grandparents came to visit this past Friday. They arrived about 4pm, and were on the road by 10 am on Saturday. It was quick, which was nice since we really NEED our weekends around here to make sense of life again.

My Mom and Larry will be doing abou the same thing this upcoming weekend to celebrate my 28th birthday. Clint asked me last night if 28 is a big deal to me. It's not because I am EXACTLY where I want to be in life...it is wonderful!

And now for the star of this post...(by the way, I've given myself 10 minutes to write and it is 5:45 in the morning)

Millie Kaye!

Millie is doing GREAT! She is still eating like a champ and has bumped herself up to about 5 ounces at each feeding...some feedings she stops at 4, but others she just keeps on going. She and Daddy hang out every day until about 1:00 in the afternoon...and he loves it. She gets dropped off at Mrs. Sara's house about 1:30 and I arrive to pick her up about 4:45 each day. It has really been a smooth transition and we LOVE Mrs. Sara! Clint really loves the schedule because he has YET to have to change a poopy diaper...Millie saves them for Mrs. Sara!

Sleeping has gotten a TON better! for the last FIVE nights, she is in her crib between 9 and 9:30...she will grunt and groan and wiggle as she slowly falls asleep. She is up again between 3 and 4 to eat which is when Clint takes over. I am SO thankful we have gotten her to go down earlier, since at night time it's just she and I. I have about 23 4th graders who are thankful too! ;)

Millie is wearing 0-3 month clothes. I just went through the next section of her closet, 3-6 months, to see what I could find. We are going to be making the switch from summer to fall soon and I want her to be able to wear all her cute summer clothes.

I have a huge pile of clothes to go to the Women's Pregnancy Center...brand new...that she won't have the chance to wear. Glad I can find a place for them!

Back to Millie...she smiles now...a lot! I LOVE it! She has started following us with her eyes which just makes my heart melt! Ahhh I love her. She makes the cutest noises too! She gets very excited and it really seems like she is going to laugh...don't think it will be too long until that happens.

She has just started FREAKING OUT lately when Clint or I pick her up from the floor. We seriously have to get down really close, talk to her, touch her and slowly pick her up really close to us so she doesn't panic. I guess we were just startling her. It broke our hearts! I think she is a scaredy cat like her mommy!

Well...that is all for the moment! Thanks for being patient with me...it may be another month before I blog again!

Much love,
Sam

Wordless Wednesday

**I know these are on Facebook too, I just can't get enough...which is why I am in the process of writing to the city of Cordele, Georgia to see if they'd be interested in using one of these pictures for their bilboard on Interstate 75...Hey, they are the Watermelon capital...why wouldn't they??

My 3 Aunts

**Sidenote: Here I sit...Millie next to me swinging away in her swing...(not-so)patiently awaiting the phone call that tell me weather my sister Katy is having a baby boy or a baby girl. So...I decided to blog to pass the time...you know, because I have nothing else to do! ;)

This past Sunday evening we met my mom, Larry and Aunt Dani at Cracker Barrell for a quick bite to eat before whisking Aunt Dani back to T'ville to spend 3 whole days with us. She lives in Colorado, so these trips are few and far, far, far between! This would be her first time meeting Millie after waiting so long! Needless to say, she was hooked from the first moment!
After eating, burping and changing Millie, we took off for T'ville. Mom and Larry made their way back to Warner Robins with promises to see us again next weekend...(tomorrow actually!)

After arriving in Thomasville, it was apparent that Aunt Dani is by far the coolest Aunt ever! At about 10:30, she looked at Clint and I and said, "Go to bed, I got this!" After a slight hesitation of "are you sure, you don't have to, blah blah blah," we were off to sleepy time! Aunt Dani even promised to get up with her in the middle of the night...which came at 5:00...and then again at 8:30!!! I slept for NINE hours my people and it was glorious!

Monday followed with a suprise visit from Dani's friend Colleen who lives about 2 1/2 hours from us. Dani was so surprised and excited to see her! They've been friends since 2nd grade...it was so neat to get to catch up! Colleen of course loved Millie too!

Tuesday came and went with a quick trip to Target and a nap for mommy. PJs were the purpose of the trip to Target. Millie has outgrown ALL of her newborn PJs and was down to two pair of the footie pajamas. (I am not a fan of the gown PJs like everyone told me I'd be..just me though) We found a few pair at Target that we got...2 were even on clearance...woohoo!

Wednesday I had to go to my school's open house. I felt like I "should" show up to meet the parents and students that are in my class this year! My sub was there too, which I am INCREDIBLY thankful for! She is a...wait for it...Degreed, experienced TEACHER that taught 3rd grade for 6 years!!!! She is now a SAHM with her cute daughter EllaGrace and was willing to help out for the first week! I am SO greatful for that super news! Anyway...Open House went great...kids seem lovely and parents do too! Everyone loved the pictures of Millie and were very excited for me! I am glad I went. Millie and Aunt Dani got to hang for a few hours, which they both really enjoyed!

Wednesday afternoon brought the arrival of my other two sisters, Elizabeth (Germany) and Katy! This was the first time we'd all 4 been together in 2 years! It was a VERY quick trip...I'm talking...18 hours...but very much worth it! We all vegged out, talked alot, watched some TV, had a photo shoot and ate pizza! SO FUN!




All 3 of them left at 8:00 this morning to be at Katy's Dr. Appt by 12:30. And...as of now...that's where they are. Still no news on the baby front, so I'll put some pictures to go along with this post...while I wait!

I always knew I loved my sisters...but seeing them with my girl, puts them all in a whole new light! It is SO neat to see people love the very thing that I love with all my heart! And...cue the tears!

Thanks for coming to visit girls! We love you and miss you already!



Until next time,
Sam

BTW...Katy is having a BOY!

One Month Reflections

Well...it's official...Millie is one month old today!

Everyone...and I mean everyone...tells you that it goes fast. I believed them, really I did, but, apparently it's one of those things you just have to experience youself to really understand the truth to it all!

It really does feel like yesterday.

This last month has been great! I am not gonna lie...I miss my sleep! I miss watching a tv show, uninterrupted. I miss the freedom of being able to run to the store. I miss being able to eat at the same time as Clint. But all of that pales in comparison to what I adore. Seriously the list could go on and on and on forever of the wonderfulness that is mommyhood!

Millie eats like a champ. Now that we are on soy, the hiccups and gas are pretty much gone. She is downing 4 oz. at a time, and eating every 3-4 hours. She goes down for the night about 11ish and wakes again at 3am then again at 6ish..sometimes 7. She does really well at the 3 am feeding to eat, burp, get changed and go straight back to sleep...I get so proud of her...I am sure I look rediculous walking around at 3 am with a smile on my face!

We are officially out of newborn diapers. I learned this the hard way last night actually. All she had in her diaper bag was newborn size diapers...we've had her in size 1s at home for a couple of days now. As I put the newborn size on last night, it was quite the struggle...and quite snug! We managed to use all the newborn diapers that were given to us with the exception of 5 diapers...not too bad!

She is already out of most of her newborn sized clothes. Some of our favorite pjs are too small...it really hurts my heart actually!

She has a stuffed giraffe named Tip Top that her uncle Wesley brought her from Dollywood. She loves it. She will stare at it for long periods of time and even is starting to coo at it. I have a feeling we will be hanging with Tip Top quite a bit in the future!

I think that is about it for now! Time to go wash bottles for the evening...who knew that would take a solid 30 minutes????

My official one month picture!
Talking to Tip Top!
Until next time,
Sam

Thoughts on Stay-at-home Moms

**This post is not intended to be judgemental or negative.

For as long as I can remember, I have wanted to be a mom. Growing up, I babysat from the age of 12...children of all ages. I have been fortunate to be the kind of girl that can easily sooth fussy babies...(could be that I am quite squishy and comfy) :). I have always loved kids.

From the time I was in 4th grade, I wanted to be a teacher. I LOVE school supplies, kids, books and schedules. I love summers off, 2 weeks at Christmas, and teacher gifts. I love being the boss and I love to talk. Thankfully, what I wanted and what God planned for me have been in sync for 6 years now. I am about to start year 7 of teaching...and...wait for it...I couldn't be more excited!

Does that make me a bad mom? No...I already know the answer...it does not. Will I have times that I would rather stay home with my girl?...absolutely. Will I miss her so so much?...of course.

BUT...I have learned over the last month (1 month tomorrow!!) that I was not created to be a stay-at-home-mom. Don't get me wrong...I wasn't nieve enough to think that SAHM's sit on the couch and eat bon-bons all day, or are able to watch all the good day-time shows while they surfed the internet. I knew all of that...but...I had NO CLUE what would be expected of me as a SAHM for over a month. NO CLUE!

The sad part is that it isn't expectations that are put there by anyone but myself. I cannot be settled unless EVERYTHING is done. Laundry, bottles, clean kitchen, clean bathrooms...etc. I can honestly say that I don't notice most of this while working full time...somehow though it always got done. Now though, I am a mad woman throughout the day...(typing this blog is starting to make me feel guilty for sitting down so long...I am thinking of all the stuff that MUST be done...my definition of MUST).

I admire SAHM'S for sure. But as much as I admire them...I am thankful that God has called me to something different. I am curious to see what my posts will say after I go back to work on the 30th. Stay tuned!

Until next time,
Sam

That's the kind of God He is!!!

**Honest Post Ahead

Right before the end of the last school year, I was "let go" from my duties as the Children's Director of the church. Being honest...I was bummed. I enjoyed having that job and the responsibilities that came with it. I KNEW that our budget was drasticly changing by adding a baby in July and now knowing that we were out $1,000 a month, panic started to set it! However, along with being bummed, I was relieved! I was thankful for the anticipation my Pastor had of the things that lay ahead for me and for the fact that he knew my plate would be too full. I recently emailed him, post Millie, thanking him for being sensitive to my situation. At this point, I know, beyond a shadow of a doubt, the right decisions were made for everyone involved! The thought of having that responsibility hanging over my head as I transition into mommyhood and soon working mommyhood, makes me kind of cringe. I am over-the-moon greatful for the break from that and the break from being the "go-to-girl" and "Samantha will do it" person!

I remember the day I found out I was done with that job was a Tuesday. I remember being nervous to tell Clint that we are officially going to be broke again! When I told him, I could tell he was nervous about the financial situation that lay ahead! BUT...together...we knew it was all going to be fine.

THEN...on that Wednesday we found out that our rent was going up $60 a month. For some reason that $60 figure threw us into a tailspin. So much of a tail spin that we contemplated giving up our 3 bedroom apartment and moving to a 2 bedroom. Clint started calling all the complexes and figuring out a plan. Mind you...it was May, Millie was due in July and we would have been moving the first part of August. Also...we had JUST finished putting together Millie's nursery. I was SO upset. Eventually, after trying to figure it out on our own, we prayed (duh!) about it. Together and separately. Seriously after dinner that very night, I had peace. I talked to Clint and we decided to once again, step out on faith and stay put. We knew that God would provide that money...who cares that insurance just went up, who cares that we now have to pay for daycare, who cares about the cost of diapers and formula...God would provide.

Throughout the summer months, we were extremely fortunate to pay off one of our cars and pay off a loan that we had hanging over us. Those two bills being paid off will definitely help with the extras for sure! I also was fortunate to get a little bit of a raise...which is unheard of these days...especially at Private Christian Schools!

I got my first paycheck with that little bit of a raise added in...and I want you to know, the raise added...$61 to my paychecks! WOW!

His Grace is Sufficient!
Can I get an amen?

Until next time,
Sam

This and That

It's Wednesday night, 9:30 p.m. and my sweet baby girl is sound asleep on her blanket on the floor...she fell asleep all by her self while having a well meaning conversation with her favorite giraffe "Tiptop." She had a bath right before she conked out so her hair is all fuzzy and messed up...it is just too cute! Not to mention she is rockin her "Puma" brand pjs! They were from a student, Amorii. Ahhh!

Great grandma and Great grandpa came to visit on Monday and Tuesday. We really did have a great time...Walmart, Belks, Publix and finished it off with a great meal at Ruby Tuesdays! Millie did great through it all! (well except for a little bit of the drive to Belks!)

We are ANXIOUSLY awaiting the arrival of my GREAT friend Amber who will be her on Saturday for a little bit! I haven't seen her since her wedding last July...over a year now...hard to believe how much has happened in that year! We just can't wait for her to get her and love on our girl!

Sunday we are headed to Tifton once again to celebrate Papa T.'s birthday! That evening we plan to meet my mom and stepdad for dinner and they will be dropping off....AUNT DANI!!!! I don't know that excited quite explains how I am feeling!

With all the excitement abounding with visits...one thing looms in the back of my mind and I try not to think about it too much...going back to work!

I went to school today to kind of get my barings and get some stuff moved to my new room. I am so thankful that I am not overwhelmed! I have prayed all summer that the Lord would just go before me and allow it to be a calm and smooth transition. So far, that is exactly what is happening and I am so glad!

I think that is all for now...contemplating a post on my thoughts on stay at home moms (totally positive I promise).

Gonna try to catch some zzzzzs while Millie-Mil-Mil sleeps!

Until next time,
Sam

New Status

Samantha Thompson is...

...relieved

...thankful

...rested (does midnight-5 am count as sleeping through the night?)

...so thankful for Jesus! I KNOW the answers came because of Him!

Finally got over my cry fest yesterday! Between a text conversation with my mom, wooing my man with a love letter of appreciation and heartfelt thoughts, and much prayer and communication with my Jesus...I had peace!

There is absolutely nothing like the peace that comes from Him and Him alone. Nothing like it!

I basically summed it up...2 pay checks...that is what I am out. I am not going back early...I will start 8/30 (unless dr. wants me out longer). We have $ saved that will pay most of the bills and we have learned in the past that God will take care of our needs...period.

Then morning came...checked email after rocking, feeding, loving on and changing my sweet baby.

Basically it was all a "misunderstanding." No, we aren't back to me going back 9/20, but we are better than we were yesterday. I will be paid the 60% the entire month of August and Aflac will (eventually) pay the 40%. Whew!

I am just so thankful! Thankful for the financial mess to have worked itself out, but even more thankful that the threat of me going back WEDNESDAY is gone! I can wait it out a little longer!

Thank you for your prayers!
Sam

Status

I have so many possible facebook statuses swirling in my brain right now that it is unreal! The problem is, I cannot put ANY of them on there. Why? Because of who my "friends" are. Crazy I know.

I don't want to freak close friends out by posting something vague. I can't offend the few work people I have on there, so I can't say what I really want to.

So...here they are...to make me feel a little better...

Samantha Thompson is...

...on the verge of losing it

...so full of questions

...having a hard time understanding the "whys"

...about to go post-partum on someone

...really wants to sleep 8 straight hours...I really really do!

...TICKED

So there they are! Concerned? Don't be! Just venting.

In a nutshell...this is the dealio...

Rewind to MARCH...asked all the right "maternity leave" questions to be prepared for after Millie's birth. Understood the answers to be something to the effect of...take off the time you need, school pays 60% of usual pay. No biggie since I have Aflac...they will pay 40%. The plan was to take off until 9/20 (my 28th b-day).

Fastforward to YESTERDAY...(13 DAYS before school starts)(nothing like waiting until the last minute) I got a phone call from Personell...MUST have a letter from my doctor stating my NEED to be out of work(maternity leave doesn't suffice)...that is the only way the school will pay 60%. Call the Doctor...they will only say 6 weeks which puts us at Aug 24th...I MUST read the letter before they fax...it has to say that I am NOT ALLOWED to go to work. Not what we had planned, or hoped for, but somewhat doable. I would miss inservice and 3 days of students. Big whoop! I shed a few tears, put on my big girl panties and resolved to just deal with it!

TODAY...get an email...NO PAY...ZERO MONIES...NADA for 8/1-8/27...HUH? I have no idea what in the world/why in the world this is the case. MORE tears, upset husband, even MORE tears and LOTS of phone calls...still no answers!

Of course this doesn't take place until around 3:00, making it very difficult to get in touch with people at the end of the day. So, we wait...and wait...and wait until tomorrow.

Let me pause a moment...no matter what the outcome...we will be fine. We may go into a little debt to help pay bills, but we will be fine. My goal is to not be bitter towards the MINISTRY I work for. My goal is to spend every waking moment with my baby girl. My goal is to know that God is NOT surprised and that He IS in CONTROL of it all!

Positive notes:

-Contacted babysitter...she is ready anytime to start watching Millie!
-learning patience and communication skills
-my husband is the best listener and my biggest fan...I love that he hates to see me upset...(does that make sense...he cares!)
-They are building a new chickfila on the way to work...on the right side of the road...easy access!

Thanks for letting me vent! Please pray with me tonight that this will be resolved tomorrow. I hate things like this hanging over my head. Pray that I wont let it ruin the little time I have left with my girl. Pray that I will stop crying.

Thanks and much love,
check back tomorrow for updates,
Sam

New Bottle, New Baby????

Well hello!

**Please hang with me as my blog under-goes some changes...I have no idea what the deal is. I am working on getting a new background, but with only 5 min here and there...it is taking a while!

The last few days our Millie girl has been having some tummy issues. Of course being new parents, we had no idea what the problem could be. Possibly formula, possibly bottles, etc. While at Nana and Papa T's house this past weekend, we (along with Nana) decided to change bottles. We have been using Avent bottles, which have good ratings and we know people personally that use them and like them. I was starting to have my doubts when formula would leak and Millie would get frustrated with the nipple and play with it...strange for a 2 week old!

So...today we bit the bullet and made the switch to Dr. Browns. We are 2 feedings in and already have a different baby on our hands. She is SO much calmer while eating and actually took a late afternoon nap today. She usually is SO sleepy at this time, but has tummy problems which keep her from sleeping. Also, so far, (knock on wood) NO HICCUPS! With the other bottles, she had hiccups after EVERY feeding!

**Side Note: I STILL have a hard time believing I am typing posts about BOTTLES and baby stuff! UNREAL! Ahhh love!

Anyway...I would just like to add the at Clint and I feel like Parents of the Year for making the switch and figuring out the problem! (we think)

Millie's pictures are up and ready for your viewing pleasure!
Enjoy...let me know what you think!

http://sidneycromer.zenfolio.com/p1009543724/h95e1791#h2f8437d9

Until next time,
Sam

1st road trip and photo shoot

It's official...we are on our own!
We dropped my mom off Friday night and said our goodbyes...I cried like a little girl and am contemplating a good cry after I post this blog. I had no idea how much I would absolutely appreciate my mom being here for 3 weeks and no idea how much I would miss her company. Some of the tears were hormones, some were out of fear of the job that lay ahead, and most were out of pure sadness.

Today is another day, and I am okay. I miss her, but there is something to be said for our cute little family of three!

Anyway...we spent the night at Nana and Papa T's house and had a great time. Millie slept in her pack n play and did great! I was a little apprehensive as to how she would do at a new place in a new bed...but NO biggie at all!

This morning we woke up and headed to Clint's cousin Sidney's house. Sidney is an amazing photographer and I have looked forward to this photo shoot for a while! My in-laws came with us because they had the most important job of transporting the BIGGEST watermelon i've ever seen! Papa T grew it just for the purpose of taking Millie's picture with it! We changed her into her watermelon bloomers and off we went. We layed her on the watermelon and the camera went crazy! She was SO calm as she layed there feeling the strange sensation on her belly. I was SO proud! I have no idea if any of the other pictures we took turned out, but I KNOW we got some great watermelon ones!

We did a few poses in a cute pink dress, did a few naked baby pictures and by the time it came to the casual pictures...she was DONE! It was quite the experience for sure. The fun part is, we get to do it all again in about 2 months!

We are home now, and Millie is sound asleep in her Daddy's arms. He leaves in about 15 minutes to go back to work and I plan to hit the bed before her midnight feeding. Life is good for sure!

Tomorrow we will go to church for the first time with our girl. I am excited to introduce her to everyone, yet a little anxious about all that it takes to get a baby from point a to point b, sit through sunday school and church without causing a scene, and talking to myself about how to handle the possible "scene"! Sheesh!

Must run...
Until next time,
Sam

Just when I thought...

The pain was gone...I WAS WRONG!

This whole C-Section business is not fun! I don't want to complain because of the amazing gift that came from having a C-section, but MAN does it hurt!

I have SLOWLY been getting back to somewhat normal and thought things were going well. Every little twinge scares me since they sent me home with a paper describing all the side effects that will have you back in the hospital.

I got up with Millie about 3:15 this morning, changed, fed, burped and rocked her and went back to bed at about 4. All was well and I was feeling fine. Clint got up with her at about 6ish while I slept. Our alarm was set for 7:45 since I had a 10:00 doctor's appointment. When I got out of bed, I thought I was going to pass out! I was in SO MUCH pain! I wasn't sure what was causing it or what to do really other than to down some pain pills and get ready to go, thankful that I got to see the doctor today.

After an hour and a half wait in the doctor's office...and by now I feel great thanks to the medicine...we finally got to see her. No infection in my incision thankfully, but I have to REALLY watch it and keep it DRY! Also, there was a ton of fluid that she had to drain...OUCH...

Unfortunately, I am not a skinny minny, so this type of incision will be a tad more difficult for me to care for. I HATE all things medical so I tried to pay good attention...lets just say...I have my work cut out for me!

The pain is still lingering...I just sent mom to CVS to get my perscriptions filled...

I just want to be well! I want to run and play and walk like I am 27 and not 72. I want to pick up my Millie without cringing! I want to do the dishes and sweep the floor.

Now I sound rediculous, so I'll close! Please ignore the complaining!

In happier news: The football coach's wife is bringing us supper! AND...I am ONE pound away from being at my pre-pregnancy weight (NOT that I am doing anything to help...believe me...(please don't hate me Leah!) But, this is a WHOLE different subject for a WHOLE different day!

Until next time,
Sam

Tid Bits For Today

Because of my scattered brain and head full of mush...here goes another Tid Bits post!

Mom- not sure how much I have mentioned my mom on here since Millie's arrival, but I am SO.GLAD.SHE'S.HERE! By the time she leaves to go back home, she will have been here for 3 solid weeks. I can honestly say that I have very much enjoyed having her. She has been the biggest help and the best midnight shift Mimi ever! I am excited to get to our little family of 3 and see how that will be, but I am going to be a MESS when my mom leave! I don't know that words could quite express how I feel! I just love her!

Nana and Papa T.- We are taking our first trip to Tifton this Friday. The plan is to arrive at Nana and Papa's in mid afternoon and just hang with them. Saturday at 10:00 a.m. we have an appointment with Clint's cousin who is an AMAZING photographer and will be taking pictures of Millie for us. We got a few gift certificates for him from his parents at our baby showers. TOO SWEET!

Pictures- Speaking of pictures...I am not the most creative person as I have mentioned on here a time or two...BUT! I ordered the cutest watermelon seed bloomers from an etsy shop online. They came in the day after we got home with Millie. My Father in law has a HUGE watermelon that he is "babying" in the fields (covered it with at blanket so it wouldn't sunburn) and the plan is to lay our sweet little watermelon baby on this big watermelon with her cute little bloomers on! I can't wait to see how that turns out! Hopefully my expectations are not too high and I can go with the flow!

Chili's and Target- We ate out for the first time with Millie yesterday. She slept the whole time like an angel, but mommy was a nervous wreck. I seriously thought someone was going to kick, trip, or bump the carseat holder she was in. No one did and we all survived, but my nerves were shot. Target was better...I had more control...but by the time we got there...I was pooped! We picked up a bottle warmer and some shelves for her room.

Shelves??- We have totally re-arranged our living room. We were in MUCH need of more seats due to the amount of visitors we've had and will continue to have now that there is a reason to visit! ;) We had our matching love seat in Millie's room, but it is back out in the living room. We never thought we had room, but decided to cover up the fire place with the long couch...it really doesn't look bad and it takes care of blocking it for when we have a crawler. Since we moved the couch out of the nursery, we had to do something to cover up the empty space...shelves were very much needed so that is what we went with. Daddy still has to put them together, then we'll be all set!

Breast Buds- Seriously had a FREAK OUT moment last night. Clint was rocking Millie and I was washing bottles. My mom says "come feel Millies boo.bies" I'm like "WHAT?" I did, and they were "hard"! I got so scared, but we googled it. Apparently this is "normal" for babies due to their mommy's crazy hormones that shoot out right before delivery. We are still gonna tell the doctor, but I was able to calm down a little after reading about it! Yikes!

Work- I hate typing that word. It's been a while though. The assistant principal called me the other night. We chatted about all things school and still have nothing really settled other than the fact that I am teaching 4th grade reading. That's all good. Still don't know when I am returning. Still can't move into my classroom. I did tell her I would make arrangements to be at open house to meet the parents, but that I probably wouldn't be back until closer to October. We shall see!

Love- I'm in LOVE! I love my Husband! I love my baby girl! I love coffee again! So far, I love huggies better than luvs (I haven't opened the pampers yet)! I love organization! I love having plans...even it they are little plans of organizing! I love my Jesus and the fact that I have open communication with Him 24/7! I love the fact that my step-dad Larry fixed our computer and I don't have to move my blog!!!

Until next time,
Sam

Google trouble

The Thompson household is calm and quiet at the moment! Mommy is chillin on MiMi's laptop, Daddy is sound asleep and Millie is taking her morning nap in her cradle. MiMi is chatting away to her friends on the phone and telling them all about her girl.

We are settling into a routine of sorts. The thought of a "schedule" makes my hands sweat (which is quite normal for me), and seems somewhat impossible. We are on a schedule called "My name is Millie and I get hungry when I get hungry and I sleep when I am sleepy." She sleeps in segments of 3 to 4 hours which compared to the first night, is really good.

Back in the day, I would be the one counting on my fingers to make sure I got at least 8 hours of sleep each night. Now, when I sleep for 3 or more hours I seriously wanna do the happy dance! AND...(if this sounds strange, forgive me) I enjoy waking up to take care of my baby. No, I don't bound out of the bed singing a song, but i don't moan or groan or hate myself. I just love her so much and have this untamed desire to take care of her. I praise the Lord for the emotions and feelings thus far!

Millie's Daddy is by far the BEST daddy in the world! I knew he would be, but I had NO idea how much more love I could possibly have for this man. When I see him with her, my heart melts. When I hear him soothing her at 3 in the morning through the monitors, I cry. When he sweetly rubs my back or sneaks a kiss, I feel like the luckiest woman on the planet. He would do ANYTHING for his girls and I am so thankful for him.

Alrighty...before the waterworks begin, I must run! For some reason our home computer will NOT let me on blogger...or Google for that matter. Something about a Security Certificate. I am a little nervous about that and wondering if I am going to have to start a new blog elsewhere...YIKES. My step dad comes in tonight, so I am gonna see if he can help or call my step brother Alan to see if he can help. Otherwise, stay tuned!

Until next time,
Sam

Millie’s Birth Story

Monday July 12, 2010

Clint and I are sound asleep in bed when all of a sudden…I wet myself. I woke up thinking…”Why can I not control my pee?” So, I did what I thought normal, I stood up and stayed in ONE spot over the carpet with water dripping everywhere. I said to Clint “Honey, I can’t tell if I am peeing or if my water broke” to which he replies “Where are you?” This all happened at 5:45 a.m. From there, I made it to the toilet, he went and woke up my mom for her to check and by 5:50 we all decided that the time was HERE. My WATER BROKE!!!!

From there we went into high gear! I called my sister Danielle in CO first and woke her up about 4a.m. her time. When she answered she said in her sweet voice “Sami???” You could tell she knew something was up! Then I called my BFF Karen to let her know and to give her the go ahead to start updating my facebook. I then called my dad and gave him the news. That was all the calling on my part…Clint did his few, Mom did her few…we all took showers and we were off to the hospital about an hour away.

When we arrived, we checked into triage and were admitted immediately….they could VERY much tell my water was broken! I was moved to the labor room and ate a great breakfast of pancakes at about 9:00. Little did I know that would be my last meal for 46 hours!

I got my IV (which really did hurt…but I did get used to it), signed forms and hooked up to the monitors. And the wait began! I was doing great and in no pain! No pain because I was having NO contractions! They began pitocin which brought them….oh yes it brought them! I immediately started asking for my epidural. I am a wimp and I warned them! They really wanted me to wait a little bit to see what the pitocin would do without the epidural…so I did. I waited and waited…contractions were coming enough that I thought for sure we were making progress. THEN SHE CHECKED ME and I made VERY little progress, so little that they wanted to put internal monitors in me so they could really watch Millie’s heart and really monitor my contractions. When they went to put them in….I CRIED…It was rather painful because I wasn’t dilated enough. They stopped and let me recoup.

10 minutes later the heavenly nurse Tina walked in with two more angels….the anesthesiologists. It was on then…epidural time…now I am shaking like a leaf! I was very scared….I remember grabbing Clint and just saying Jesus, Jesus, Jesus over and over in my head….not in a mean way, but in the way that you “Call unto Him” when you don’t know what else to say or what else to do. In the grand scheme of things the epidural wasn’t that bad….especially for the relief it brought.

We are now sitting at about 2:00. I am feeling good, watching the monitor and watching my family take turns coming and going and seeing them fascinated with the monitors and telling me how HUGE my contractions were. They were amazed I didn’t feel a thing! We all knew I was making tremendous progress and were getting excited for what was coming!

5:00 rolls around, they check me again and put the monitors in. Much more pleasant experience. I went from 1cm to 3 cm, but my cervix wasn’t thinning like it should! Boo! Time passes and they decided that since my water had been ruptured for over 12 hours to start antibiotics and not to check me until the next morning so as not to bring an infection. So we waited. Family came and went, everyone but me got a bite to eat, and eventually everyone left except my mom and Clint.

We went to sleep being told that they would check me about 4:00 a.m. I KNEW I would be much further than 3cm and ready to attack what came my way! 4:00 comes and goes…no midwife.

Tuesday July 13, 2010

She did not come until 10 a.m. Why? I have no idea…something about waiting to hear if I was feeling pressure…I was feeling nothing! She came in and checked me….4 cm! 4! I boohooed like a stinking baby! I felt like Millie would NEVER come out! I knew it would be today though because they wouldn’t let me go past 48 hours with ruptured water. That was a tad bit encouraging!

Family comes back, phone calls are made and promises of another long day were made. Things are fuzzy at this point…I just know I am uncomfortable and starving and wanting to do this. I remember going from a 4 to a 6, from a 6 to an 8 and finally an 8 to a 9. From the 8 to a 9, something goes haywire with my epidural and from that point on never really worked right. Also, little Miss Millie goes a little haywire and decided to turn sideways in my belly. NOT GOOD.

In comes the doctor, and tries to turn Millie….with what felt like her entire arm. BY FAR That was the most uncomfortable part of the whole thing….painful and scary…they even had me pushing at this point too….to try to help turn…that was crazy!

After this, they made me lay FLAT on my stomach…with Millie in there….promising me that she was fine and could breathe and that I wasn’t squishing her. I cried and cried and cried and cried. I was in SO MUCH PAIN! I was scared and I wanted to be done. This was about 5:45 p.m., 36 hours after my water broke!

At about 6:00, the doctor didn’t like that Millie hadn’t turned and that her heart rate wouldn’t stabilize (my heart rate wouldn’t either if my big mommy was squishing me like that! Sheesh). So….Csection it was!

Room was being packed up by family, Clint got suited up and I was getting all set to go. I was a blubbering baby and was shaking like a leaf…I was SO SCARED! Again….you know what I kept saying “Jesus, Jesus, Jesus.” There is no way I could have survived this experience without KNOWING Him and being able to cry out to Him!

The rest was a very quick blur…I remember them saying rather loudly “room entrance 6:20 p.m.” They moved me to the other bed, and immediately began. I remember them counting all the tools too!

Then lots of pressure and pulling and at 6:32 p.m. our sweet baby girl entered the world! I cried and cried and cried as I waited to get my eyes on her. I could not wait to see her! Finally they brought her over and I was smitten immediately. I know everyone says that but it is the God’s honest truth!

After this…time flew! They sewed me up as Clint went off with Millie. The moved me to recovery where it seemed nothing was happening. They were working on my charts and figuring out pain meds and all of that. I could see Millie getting cleaned up, but my whole self longed to hold her. I was a shaky mess and just couldn’t stop thinking about the fact that I hadn’t held her yet. Finally the nurse grabbed her up and put her on me. It was Love! She looked into my eyes and I looked into hers and that was that! Forever changed!

Eventually they moved me to my room and got us all settled in. My family all got to come in very quickly at about 8:45 p.m. Visiting hours were over at 9 and I was on the verge of pitching a fit if my family didn’t get to see her after waiting for two solid days in the waiting room. They did pull some strings and worked it out for everyone to get to sneak a peek for a little bit.

The hospital experience after Millie’s arrival is a whole different story for a whole different day.

For now we are all learning each other and getting settled in at home. We are in love and are immensely blessed with the opportunity to be parents…not just parents…but parents to our baby Millie!

She's Here!!!

Millie Kaye Thompson was born Tuesday, July 13th at 6:32 p.m. She weighed 8 lbs. 4 oz and was 20 inches long. She has a head full of black hair and is absolutely beautiful! She is a dream and I am so thankful to the Lord for allowing us to have her!

When there is more time, I will share her whole birth story!

Just to whet your appetite: Water broke, 36 hours of labor, C-section!

Come back soon!

Until next time,
Sam

Mommy!

So here I sit with my feet up and my laptop on my lap...waiting...and waiting!
My Mom should be pulling in ANY MINUTE and I am overjoyed. I think I might cry! I have never been the "clingy" type with my mom. I love her, she loves me but we have our own lives and pick up the phone at least once a week to talk.
Since I have been pregnant we talk about 3-4 times a week. And I love it! I hope it stays like that as this new phase of life begins! Since our Triage experience on Wednesday, I admit it...I want my mommy!!!
I am so excited to show her Millie's nursery and talk about what food she is going to make this week and just have her company!

I guess that is all there is to say for now. Hopefully I will have more news to share in the next few days!!!

Say it with me..."Come on Millie!"

Until next time,
Sam

Triage

This morning I had my normal 1 week check up at 11:00. Clint and I woke up, got ready, loaded the Jeep up with our hospital stuff just in case and we were off. My biggest thought of the morning was weather or not I would be dialated at all. I have been talking to myself a lot telling myself not to get upset if I wasn't dialated because it wasn't time yet. I didn't want to be dissappointed when there is a miracle in progress. I wanted to be positive and stay positive. That was pretty much my conversation in my brain during the hour long trip to Tally.

We got to the doctor's office, did the normal pee in the cup and wait business and was called back. My blood pressure was at 145/91. A little too high for their liking. The midwife came in, we chatted a bit, asked me if I was having contractions and she was ready to check for Millie's heartbeat. She checked it...there it was beating nice and strong at 140bpm! She then checked me...NO dialation still, but the head is nice and low and my cervix is thinning still! She then sat me up and said "what I need you to do for me is head on over to Triage so they can do some blood work and monitoring since your blood pressure is a little too high." I am sure my face went a little pale...but I was honestly pretty calm. We made our appointment for next Thursday and off we went.

We sent out the text messages, made the phone calls and checked in. My poor mama is in Chicago for a conference type thing and is REALLY wishing she wasn't there. I knew this would be hard for her to hear, so I tried to sound as chipper as I could. She was very calm, but very serious. She said "it is probably going to mean bed rest for you." Mama was right!

We checked in to Triage and got all hooked up to the baby monitor and the blood pressure cuff. I had 3 vials of blood drawn and then we just waited. An hour and a half later, my bp had gone back to normal and the blood work came back good. We were released with strict orders for me to stay off my feet and rest!

I was very surprised because I feel that all I have done the last 3 weeks has been exactly that...off my feet and resting! This means no laundry, no cooking, no cleaning etc. It sounds like a good plan, but I am already bored! Thankfully my mom will be here Friday to stay until 2 weeks after Millie is born! I am so ready to see her!

So now...we wait. We look for signs and wait.

Until next time,
Sam

Shower Curtain Change Up

Back when we moved into this apartment last September, I knew we would need supplies for our second bathroom seeing as how we only had one bathroom at our last place. I am BY NO MEANS a decorator, nor do I seem to care all that much for decorating...other than Millie's room...that was fun.

We let the second bathroom go for a little while with nothing since we didn't have any guests slated to come. Finally, we (I) decided it was time. I made the mistake of convincing Clint to go with me on a Sunday after church to shop for bathroom stuff. He did it, but clearly wasn't interested. I started interested but quickly lost the thrill of it all (looking back now, I was about 4 weeks pregnant and had NO IDEA...could be the reason for the easy loss of thrill!)

All of that to say, we grabbed this and grabbed that, threw it all up and wa-la we were done! I went sort of with a flip flop/beachy theme. I found a shower curtain that I thought would be perfect. Unfortunately I didn't pay very close attention to it until we were home and putting it up.

As I hung it up I realized that the bottom (which I loved) had all different types of flip flops, where the middle had clothes and towels that looked like they were hanging on hooks. The problem was right smack dab in the middle was a teeny tiny, barely there, bikini! I was immediately bummed, but gave it a big "oh well"!

Fastforward 9 months and the thought of Millie taking her baths with that shower curtain made me feel like a bad mommy. Call me crazy/hormonal/weird or anything of the like...I don't mind. I just don't want her seeing that stuff even as a little one! So...the search has been ON for something a little more lady-like!

Obviously we are not in a place where we want to spend lots of money on a whole new bathroom theme, so that has been a factor too! For now we are focusing on the shower curtain and towels to match. The rest of the details can come with time for sure!

Yesterday was the day! I went to Bealls outlet where it has 15% off Fridays. I found myself in the clearance aisle and stumbled on the most adorable shower curtain! The best part is that it was originally $20 marked down to $10 with an additional 50% off PLUS the 15%off for the fact that it was Friday! I got that bad boy for $4!!!! And it's cloth!

I love it and I hope Millie will too!

Cute huh??

The Millie-gator

Most of you know that I was born in Louisiana. I am a cajun at heart and come from a whole line of cajuns! I love spicy food and seafood of all kind! I love red beans and rice, gumbo and boudin (said boo-dan)! I love listening to my family talk because they have that cajun accent that I never had the chance to really get.

When my Dad and Cindy came two weeks ago, they brought something that was made especially for Millie. Apparently this is something that used to be made long ago for all the little cajun babies that were born, but somehow the tradition sort of stopped! Well, my favorite aunt Laurie pulled some strings and made some connections with my great aunt Nan and had this made especially for our Millie!

I am SO thankful to have that part of my heritage to pass on to our sweet girl! I look forward to taking her picture with her Millie-gator as the months go by!

Thanks Aunt Laurie! Love you bunches!

MUST have it!

****Writing this blog while my brand new dishwasher is being installed!!!! Thank you Wildwood Apartments!!!

Do you ever get those intense food cravings that you MUST fulfill? I have to admit that I have been like that for a lot of my life. If I think about something yummy for too long, the feeling of "I HAVE to have that" takes over. It has been very much the same story during this pregnancy, only magnified a bit!

Yesterday was one of those days!

It all started last week when my mother-in-law was talking about how many tomatoes (beautiful) her garden was producing. She just didn't know what she was going to do with them all! I mentioned possibly making salsa. She thought about it, even checked out a few cookbooks, but realized it would be quite the undertaking that she just didn't have time for. We are talking salsa for canning here. That was that. My thoughts didn't really dwell there until good ole Paula Deen came on the food network. She made this FRESH salsa which looked SO SO good! That same episode came on twice during the week, and yes I watched it both times! ;)

Long story short, I was sent home with a whole bunch of tomatoes. I couldn't get salsa out of my brain. So...off I went to google and google and google some more. I decided canning was out of the question seeing that I can only stand for short periods of time, so I was looking for something fresh. I found this recipe that sounded good and off I went. I had to go to the store for a few things, but it was SO SO worth it!

If you are curious....here is the recipe!
Enjoy!

California Avocado Salsa

3 large avocado, peeled and cubed
3 medium tomatoes, seeded and chopped
1 1/2 cups chopped sweet red pepper (I left this out...$3.69 for ONE...I don't think so!)
1 small onion
1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and chopped
3 tablespoons minced fresh cilantro
1/4 cup lime juice (I would probably only do 1/8 next time)
salt to taste
chips

In a bowl, combine the first 8 ingredients, mix well. Serve immediately with chips.


Let the fun begin!

Finished product! So good!

The Much Anticipated Month of July is HERE!!!

Happy July 1st everyone!

I've always been a fan of July!

I am sure it has something to do with being the one FULL month of NO SCHOOL/WORK!

I've always loved everything patriotic which has everything to do with my dad being in the Air Force and serving our country for 34 years! Not to mention, the watermelon, hot dogs and fireworks mixture that is almost always are part of this month!

Birthday's are fun and I have 2 sisters with birthday's in July!

This year, I believe will put the "icing on the cake". I believe the goings on of this Month will forever change me as a person. And I CAN'T WAIT!

We had two doctor's appointments yesterday and were sent home with an "I'll see you in one week!" There is no hope in the mind of my midwife that anything is going to happen...which, for now, is okay! We are still a little early!

While at the high risk doctor they told us that Millie already weighs about 7 lbs 5 oz! Surprisingly my first reaction was not fear, but sheer pride! I am so proud of her for growing inside of me...is that a normal reaction or is that just me and my silly self? Either way, I was beaming!

So now, we wait! We have no plans other than to watch the fireworks on Saturday and visit with family on Sunday. This could probably doom me since I know how quickly I get bored! We shall see!

My mom leaves for Chicago on Saturday the 3rd until Thursday the 8th! Millie is on strict orders to remain where she is during that time! Another, We shall see!

Until next time,
Sam

Post Potpourri

So much to say, about all different things...so here goes a "potpourri" of topics!

1) Doctor's Visit- We went to the doctor yesterday and started week one of our weekly appointments. Everything went as normal as it could go. It was my first real (clears throat) TEST if you know what I mean. I am not dialated, but my cervix is starting to thin and Millie's head is "nice and low." When I asked about her size, the midwife said it is average. We go back June 30th to the high risk doctor for an ultrasound, so we may know more of a "guesstimated" size! The midwife started going over the signs of labor with Clint and I...I felt like I should be writing things down! We are basically just supposed to pay attention to my body. The midwife also said "what got the baby in there, often times gets the baby out," just what Clint needed to hear! He was all smiles and ready to have the baby today. I have convinced him she needs to stay in for a while longer to help her lungs fully devlop! He believes me for now...I just can't think about all that! :)

2) Children's Ministry- I am no longer the Children's Director for the church. It's all good. I went last night to a meeting for every worker that works in some part of the Children's Ministry. I was surprised with cake and punch and balloons a few gifts and a big fat Target gift card from the volunteers in the Children's Ministry. So very sweet and once again, We are so very blessed!

3) Family Visit- My dad, stepmom, sister Katy and her boyfriend Mark came to visit us this morning. They arrived about 11:00, we showed off the nursery, chatted a bit then off we went to Longhorns for lunch. More baby talk and making my dad squirm, we had an enjoyable lunch and came back home. I made my dad a blackberry cobbler because I know it is his favorite. I had fresh blackberries and knew that would be the best use for them! ;) We had dessert...which he loved and they were off. We got to spend about 3 1/2 hours with them! It was really great to see them again...it's been a little while!



4) Father's Day- Father's Day is tomorrow! I love, love, LOVE my dad so so much! I am also very much looking forward to seeing Clint shine as a daddy! He is going to be great and I know a tear or two or three will be shed as I see him in action! I also, must say that I have the BEST father-in-law a girl could ask for! I love him!

5) Tifton- Normally this time of year, I find myself driving a tractor or a truck full of watermelons and/or cantelopes. Not this year. We are still going to visit for a week and a half to get Clint out there to help his dad a bit, but I will be confined to the couch. I have grand plans of shelling peas, writing thank-you notes and reading a book or two... of course there is always tv and movies. I just hope I don't drive my mother-in-law crazy. They are empty nesters this summer because my brother-in-law Wesley (20) is working at a camp in TN all summer. Hopefully they will welcome the company!

6) Pool- I LOVE THE POOL! I have been 5 times in the last 6 days. I do nothing but float around on my pink pool noodle (Thanks Honey!) It is the one place that I feel "weightless" and it is so great! I LATHER up the sunscreen for sure! I am getting quite the nice tan too!

I think that is about it for now!
Until next time,
Sam

Just Call Me Crybaby

Yes, I know I am hormonal! Yes, I know it is normal! I get it!

Over the last 4 days, I have cried more than I feel necessary!

I have ALWAYS been a crier! Just ask my mom and grandma. I cried about everything growing up. I didn't use my words well, I just cried. Living with my roommate Betty, watching TV, I would cry at just about anything sappy. I remember her always peering over the arm of the couch to look at me to see if it hit yet...now, Clint does the same thing.

This week though, Clint has been working every afternoon and evening, so I find myself with a lot of alone time. Don't get me wrong, I am enjoying it. There isn't much to do in this horrible HEAT with this humongous belly, so a lot of my time is spent reading or watching tv.

These are things that get me:

1) A Baby Story: Don't ask me why I watch that. I don't know. I am intrigued by it. I think to myself "can I really do that?" or even "oh I hope I don't scream like her." I am always fine until that baby comes out...then I am overcome with emotion for TOTAL strangers! I boohoo every single time! The whole concept of birth is unbelieveable and I can't wait for my own Baby Story to get here (well, maybe I can wait a little longer).

2) Karen Kingsbury: Ever heard of her? She writes Christian Fiction books. I have honestly read EVERY book she's ever written. I don't own that many since we have a nice library and over the years I have jut borrowed from friends. Anyway, Monday I pulled one our called "Ocean's Apart" and OH.MY.SOUL...I boohooed some more! I LOVE her books and reccommend them to anyone who asks! I can't wait until June 22nd...I get to go pick up "Take 4" in her series...Clint ordered it for me for our anniversary...just gotta go get it!

3) Phone calls from sisters: Elizabeth- Elizabeth is 24, married and stationed with her husband, Rob in Germany. Since May, Rob has been deployed to Kuwait. She has been alone in a foriegn land. She does have many friends, which I am thankful for. She is so strong. She is working her butt off and losing weight and anxiously awaiting time to pass so she can come back to GA for 30 days. I got to talk to her for the first time in a while the other day and when we hung up, I got emotional! She is one of the strongest people I know and has been through a ton. I am proud of her and couldn't help but have to take a deep breath when we hung up! Can't wait to see her and introduce Millie to her!

Danielle- 22, Colorado, works at the 3rd largest homeless rescue mission in the U.S. She deals mainly with the children and she is amazing! I miss her so so much and can't wait for her to visit in August. I am SO glad she already has her plane ticket! She called me Tuesday night really quick to let me know that she and her boyfriend of 4 monthsish, broke-up. I am not gonna lie, I cried a little. Not for any other reason, but because I am so proud of her. She handled it well and they are able to still be "friends", go to the same church and small group. He was great, just not for her, and that's okay! She is the coolest!

Katy-19 and having a baby in January. I love her! I always have! I have talked to her twice in the last two weeks and both times it was for close to an hour. She and I are in the "same shoes" so to speak. Her pregnancy is very new and very scary for her so I welcome the chance to get to talk to her and be there for her. She is coming on Saturday along with her boyfriend, my dad and Cindy. I am very excited to see her, hug her neck and pat her little tummy!

I have also shed quite a few tears for an aquaintence of mine. She lost her sweet baby girl yesterday. She was almost 6 months old. Sweet baby Mina had a rare disease called Pompes disease. She is with Jesus now, healthy and breathing heavenly air, but it hurts my heart to see people go through this kind of stuff. I am continually whispering their names to Heaven that the Lord would comfort them at this time and the rough times that are yet to come.

So you see, some silly, some serious, but I have my reasons to cry!

Until next time,
Sam

35 Weeks!!!!

Here we are my friends...week 35! I am still feeling pretty good! The only thing that is super tough at this point is bending over and rolling over...quite the act if I might say. Clint literally has to give me a push to get me going! I try really hard not to laugh because then it becomes nearly impossible! Still no major swelling or anything abnormal. I did officially take off my wedding rings for fear of swelling fingers and not being able to get them off. Just thought I'd take that percaution.

We survived my grandparents visit. Believe it or not, there was not one "incident" the entire trip. They arrived Thursday evening about 4:45, after saying they would be here at 5 then calling Clint in the morning saying they were coming at 2:30. After I pitched a fit, called them and made her promise not to go in Millie's room without me, they didn't end up coming until 4:45. I think there may have been a smidgen of guilt for changing their plans. They KNOW I like to have a plan and stick to it! IF you say 5, then it's 5!!!
Anyway, they got in and we immediately got sucked into Millie's room. They were amazed at all we have for her. I continually made sure to give credit to the Lord for providing for us. It is nothing we deserve or have done to make it happen, it is the provision of the Lord and I will claim that forever!

Friday I had to be at work from 9-11 which is when they took the opportunity to start Millie's curtains and start hanging stuff on the walls. I got home about 12, we ate and kept on going in the nursery! By 7:00 we were done! We enjoyed dinner and a few games at the card table and bedtime was here! This morning I got up about 8 to find my Grandma up and reading the paper. She announced that instead of leaving Sunday morning, they were leaving this morning. I was a little shocked and a little thankful all at the same time. She is not the type that enjoys "sitting around" at all, and she knows that at this point, that is all I can and should do, especially in this heat! She made me promise I would take the day and rest and relax! Not a hard promise to make at all!







We saw them off about 11 then headed straight for the pool! I feel THE BEST when I am in the pool! Totally weightless and wonderful! So glad I got a bathing suit when I did...I tried shoving myself into my old one, but seriously thought I was going to cut off circulation! BLT's for lunch with a little Cosby show and Clint was off to work!

I did venture out today in order to pick up some trash bags after throwing a fit in CVS because they wouldn't take my coupon. (It wasn't a real fit, but I just left my stuff and walked out...I hate it when that happens!) I went to the Christian bookstore to redeem a giftcard that I got from a student for teacher appreciation...I got a brand new Christian Fiction book that I can't wait to start! Now that summer is here, I have LOTS of time!

Tomorrow is our LAST time to teach Children's Church for a while! Also, Friday was my last day for my Children's Director job. I can't say I will miss it too much. I love the kids, but the extra weight on my shoulders is nice to let go!

Also, tomorrow Clint's parents are coming to visit for two reasons...one to see the nursery and the second because the CANTELOPES are ready!!!!! I have been waiting for SO long to get my hands on a Cantelope from Thompson Farms!!! I cannot wait and neither can Millie! :)

That is about all I can think of for the goings on in good ole South Georgia. I am looking forward to a week of sleeping when I can, wearing what I want, eating when I want and taking a dip in the pool when I can! Thursday we go to visit our babysitter for Millie...this give Clint a chance to meet them and find their house...we are very excited about that...plus she is making banana pudding! Friday is our last 2 week doctor's appointment...then it's everyweek! Praying for normal measurements!

Until next time,
Sam