tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-45610511709030716282024-02-21T03:14:21.070-05:00Colin Kai RachelColin and Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09764522558866505802noreply@blogger.comBlogger117125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4561051170903071628.post-66707329324289421092012-08-02T18:35:00.000-04:002012-08-02T18:40:17.725-04:00Maternity.<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">We got all of our maternity photos back from the wonderful <a href="http://www.sarahscruggsphotography.com/">Sarah Scruggs</a> (Again, Sarah, you are incredible) and I just had to share them. Rather than putting them on facebook, where the world can see them without asking, I thought I would put them up on the blog with a forewarning.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">I wanted to put all of our favorites up, including some of the ones that show my bare Olive belly, because I think that fully shows the beauty of what God created our bodies to do! I am so blown away by these shots Sarah took. They really captured our joy and the emotion of that period of time in our lives, expecting Olive and delighting in how God was forming her inside of me. Seeing these pictures, especially the bare belly ones, reminds me to find thankfulness and happiness in what my body did and has been through. This is really important for me as a post partum mother, I think. We watch our bodies go through so many changes, and often times, at the end, we slip into the trap of self consciousness over our new "mummy tummy" and whatever else usually accompanies growing and birthing a child! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">So, I put myself out there and post these as a celebration of the pregnant figure and what God has done in creating Olive. For me, I think, it will be cathartic and an attempt at making peace with my body. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Courier New, Courier, monospace;">Proceed only if you want to and it's appropriate for you to do so!</span><br />
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Colin and Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09764522558866505802noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4561051170903071628.post-49022970312107092312012-07-27T09:23:00.002-04:002012-07-27T09:23:42.246-04:00She Became More Than a Possibility.<span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">One year ago today Colin and I discovered that we were having Olive. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Of course, at that time we didn't know it was Olive. We had no idea who she was. We frequently now talk about how it was her who was in there this whole time and how crazy that is. How grateful we are that those two particular parts of of us met and it could only have resulted in her. Beautiful, sweet her. She was already growing inside of me on that day, July 27th 2011. It was a Wednesday and we were sitting at Youth Group Bible Study watching a video. I whispered to Colin to give me his itouch. I had gasped and realized that something had been missing that month... hahaha. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">I smile thinking of it now, how I raced home, skipping the FroYo with the rest of the youth group and leaders, and went to CVS. As I was waiting in line with my little three pack of pregnancy tests, an older woman in front of me told me she hoped for my sake that the test came back negative... "I have three of my own," she said bitterly. I couldn't believe it. All I could muster was that if I was pregnant it would be a blessing and a gift. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">And as Colin and I sat together on our bathroom floor, staring at the dark line that had appeared on the stick, we stared, laughed, cried, and prayed for health for our baby. I was scared. We were in shock. I didn't feel pregnant yet. The crippling tiredness and sickness would surely come within days (on our anniversary trip to DC!), and with that, growing joy.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">So very pregnant. hahaha. </span></td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">God's timing is perfect. </span></span><br />
<br />Colin and Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09764522558866505802noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4561051170903071628.post-5014134724287449132012-07-24T21:35:00.001-04:002012-07-24T21:41:22.201-04:00A Day of Firsts.<span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">It's been a month since I've last updated this blog. In the world of a baby, a month can developmentally seem like an entire year!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Olive is almost four months old now and it is amazing how much she's grown and learned. It's crazy to look back at her newborn photos and think that this is the same baby! She's full of personality and so, so happy. She loves to grab for things now, and everything that she touches goes into her mouth. Big girl is wearing 6-9 month clothes already! </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">This little girl had a busy day today, too! </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Colin worked from home, so Olive helped out with some of his sales calls:</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">You know you love the cloth diaper clothes line...</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">And, for the first time, Olive rolled herself onto her side! She had shown no interest in doing so up until today. Being the determined little girl that she is, she couldn't stop there. She decided to roll all the way over onto her tummy, too! </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">On her side...</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlRi_k8u_i7jzZxRJm6KU1AXfdskNHp8FY4VmsQ41ll3rA0fxJ3vRhOkdssi7Y1N4J_NRt2hz6J1iH3Ilou0IZ-FP_zEIfKJ2CQhDbgE4qJNi_s44o7GrWo35AWUppiz6GVCOEwXH273U/s1600/IMG_1324.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlRi_k8u_i7jzZxRJm6KU1AXfdskNHp8FY4VmsQ41ll3rA0fxJ3vRhOkdssi7Y1N4J_NRt2hz6J1iH3Ilou0IZ-FP_zEIfKJ2CQhDbgE4qJNi_s44o7GrWo35AWUppiz6GVCOEwXH273U/s400/IMG_1324.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Tummy!</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSghpmUDi_qgL743pbSfqiAYxhPCrmcMCxUQLEG_kV6RrVmBerpFjAyiBhGhq2UugNGQxPVdEN5j5_7iy2Ifbk3zxHgRq-lHFzXDpk0rZx7VITKkdNM6ECNVzkJudEJ_iABiX9JfRdUmw/s1600/IMG_1325.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSghpmUDi_qgL743pbSfqiAYxhPCrmcMCxUQLEG_kV6RrVmBerpFjAyiBhGhq2UugNGQxPVdEN5j5_7iy2Ifbk3zxHgRq-lHFzXDpk0rZx7VITKkdNM6ECNVzkJudEJ_iABiX9JfRdUmw/s400/IMG_1325.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Now she loves playing on her side!</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">And, best of all, tonight Colin and I got our first belly laughs out of our little girl. We've gotten chuckles here and there, but tonight, while enjoying one of our favorite treats (Mochi ice cream!), we gave Olive a tiny taste (as is custom) and this is what happened.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Olive is clearly our daughter... nothing has delighted her more than food up to this point in time :) Although, it does seem that she is laughing more at our laughter (mostly her dad's, no surprise) than the mochi. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">It's incredible to me how the tiniest efforts and acquired skills can delight the heart so much. I mean, we find ourselves absolutely ecstatic over hands that can now grab for things that interest, smiles, eyes that can scan a room, and arms that push up off the ground. To a fully competent adult, these shouldn't be such a big deal. But they are. Her laughter brought a lump to my throat and tears to my eyes. It is so pure and full of genuine and unadulterated joy. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Grace and peace!</span><br />
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<br />Colin and Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09764522558866505802noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4561051170903071628.post-38335239358871643012012-06-22T11:56:00.002-04:002012-06-22T12:09:51.746-04:00Happy First Father's Day, Colin!<span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Olive and I weren't able to celebrate Father's Day with our sweet husband and Daddy this year (At least not on that exact day!). It broke our hearts. An emergency in the family took us up to New York and away from him, so I figured I would take this time, almost a week later, to tell him Happy Father's Day on our blog.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><u><span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Things that make Colin my favorite Dad in the world:</span></u></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">-<b>His playfulness with our daughter</b>. She fist pumps, drums, and dances (Lady Gaga is her favorite artist). She stands up, roots for Arsenal soccer, and professionally swims laps in our pool.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCm5J1BP6zmMX4ENzSj9Y8JNOdaZH8FQn_uD7Sjc522Y1NCJRw7tDD8es6gQ_4hUYApx3-H-cyhJjTnSJmDty3RJqk4lg6Qz6mRoUcEdbf3lAkEVWfqMZVMEdH8unxEKnhrkTePUHnJkE/s1600/IMG_0343.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCm5J1BP6zmMX4ENzSj9Y8JNOdaZH8FQn_uD7Sjc522Y1NCJRw7tDD8es6gQ_4hUYApx3-H-cyhJjTnSJmDty3RJqk4lg6Qz6mRoUcEdbf3lAkEVWfqMZVMEdH8unxEKnhrkTePUHnJkE/s400/IMG_0343.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">-</span><b style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">He's a hot dad</b><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">. C'mon, you all know you see those dads in the grocery store, wearing their babies in a sling or pushing the stroller and think how attractive that is. Well, Colin is one of those. YEYUH.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2MYZ8YU770V_RtgAjUO-uZM6sGkPv1M4Dpmm3MMR_JXDQ1reHYRmZsFXHddiADObjXaG801Ft2nLJNvtHg8YM7BjygDZZTCC7tsPbkaM4zj5xKGkmyi2xFCnA6Mn48eWawuAQ6DyXUEs/s1600/IMG_0770.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2MYZ8YU770V_RtgAjUO-uZM6sGkPv1M4Dpmm3MMR_JXDQ1reHYRmZsFXHddiADObjXaG801Ft2nLJNvtHg8YM7BjygDZZTCC7tsPbkaM4zj5xKGkmyi2xFCnA6Mn48eWawuAQ6DyXUEs/s400/IMG_0770.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">-</span><b style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">His willingness to do anything to make my life and job comfortable</b><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"> and easier, whether that be him getting up with her at 6 am on a Friday morning before work to play and change diapers or putting her to sleep at night so I can have a rest. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOxUSavodKw4In46lhuTV05xQtnWffQO6a0F-udgWrDydkFZsH2j_ADnxW9wAsvwcLl2oB5VS3-4dnGWZURU9b53YVx3Ufy2r47GApUNEtRnyLGJIXRe7B0rkmtGZGAyi0opvMjphuopw/s1600/IMG_0415.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: white; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOxUSavodKw4In46lhuTV05xQtnWffQO6a0F-udgWrDydkFZsH2j_ADnxW9wAsvwcLl2oB5VS3-4dnGWZURU9b53YVx3Ufy2r47GApUNEtRnyLGJIXRe7B0rkmtGZGAyi0opvMjphuopw/s400/IMG_0415.JPG" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">-</span><b style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">When he reads Olive the book <i>Daddy Kisses</i></b><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">, and kisses her all over at the end. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG9P_tz52PCiG-nw5S7dPK3egi5EQzekoKQ7VffO5q3iNcKVDtN49b4TfGqytJzXuF0PR3p2Yx8_QmnYjhMEOLppu4eM-_6OIdY4BB3AofwJn5Tu3ifiwyxSoyjNX9mhljbTBT4XtvyI0/s1600/IMG_0464.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG9P_tz52PCiG-nw5S7dPK3egi5EQzekoKQ7VffO5q3iNcKVDtN49b4TfGqytJzXuF0PR3p2Yx8_QmnYjhMEOLppu4eM-_6OIdY4BB3AofwJn5Tu3ifiwyxSoyjNX9mhljbTBT4XtvyI0/s400/IMG_0464.jpg" width="300" /></span></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">-</span><b style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">How he always says he wants to shake her and squeeze her</b><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">... not out of frustration, but out of sheer joy over her cuteness. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT8fQlVkF5MdICb9kbs4vx3-7d0iAcGHOqU7d-3J09IWmQeZSyN_9Y8ZyV2efMHg2lUfkZZtfaqPBaLSNjkGBOPZTIjHH7PBFReBRBsj1gxUxUmOBZTljr07CZwTChwRpBb9b8YPovOTc/s1600/Olive+035.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT8fQlVkF5MdICb9kbs4vx3-7d0iAcGHOqU7d-3J09IWmQeZSyN_9Y8ZyV2efMHg2lUfkZZtfaqPBaLSNjkGBOPZTIjHH7PBFReBRBsj1gxUxUmOBZTljr07CZwTChwRpBb9b8YPovOTc/s400/Olive+035.jpg" width="266" /></span></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">-When he can't be with her during the day, </span><b style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">he always asks me, "What is she wearing?"</b><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">. And when he gets to dress her, he always picks her sweetest little dresses. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAyO31_X0-zg0wO7Ieo7mU0vGWcmbT8744qSnlowR1wuA2oqqxqvRVD03kApso3d9G35ZRr2AqFGUZ4F82apB9-oGNujAPQCWPaejXsS6xrbkC3iZ0ejScc3fMCMC6vwqQxHYwcmGcL0M/s1600/colinandolive.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAyO31_X0-zg0wO7Ieo7mU0vGWcmbT8744qSnlowR1wuA2oqqxqvRVD03kApso3d9G35ZRr2AqFGUZ4F82apB9-oGNujAPQCWPaejXsS6xrbkC3iZ0ejScc3fMCMC6vwqQxHYwcmGcL0M/s400/colinandolive.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">-</span><b style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Bath time</b><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"> is HIS time with his daughter. So tender. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD2fybXH21HFayHhzBxv2BYvCLm_fi7WpIgUBtCOPpIdHR4YOg4SZhfCFmzVEYC_t-tcr5q3Cy3d6aexuQEi7MtC0GFKzYGZVoJKV5u-oWdGORaCRDeGJoTaAGlp8UmtV-80z5ar36Kpw/s1600/IMG_0822.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD2fybXH21HFayHhzBxv2BYvCLm_fi7WpIgUBtCOPpIdHR4YOg4SZhfCFmzVEYC_t-tcr5q3Cy3d6aexuQEi7MtC0GFKzYGZVoJKV5u-oWdGORaCRDeGJoTaAGlp8UmtV-80z5ar36Kpw/s400/IMG_0822.JPG" width="400" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">-When he calls her Babyness, Baby-Love, Olive Girl, Little Branch, Rae of Sushine, and Beauty Queen. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxtVxS22tykc3BxxaY5ZUuIhoHDPqG7smp2N2B-oCred_YvOT6Qo8cUZxfrdRsDhAgVv_fsKSmYxYe2OmdGsyxyz23iYzd5bGrUjwHr-D7B1IUdSoEWpNGBIud4_6M_9FxSjvCz4HENyk/s1600/IMG_0795.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxtVxS22tykc3BxxaY5ZUuIhoHDPqG7smp2N2B-oCred_YvOT6Qo8cUZxfrdRsDhAgVv_fsKSmYxYe2OmdGsyxyz23iYzd5bGrUjwHr-D7B1IUdSoEWpNGBIud4_6M_9FxSjvCz4HENyk/s400/IMG_0795.jpg" width="300" /></span></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">-How, when she was a newborn and her eyes would still be a little crossed or far apart sometimes, </span><b style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">he would call her "googles"</b><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;"> and tell her, "You're going to work for GOOGLE when you grow up!"</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9gYLjFrggtzTAR_oY1eLylpYONAtY2VwizzsvQM_6nXfOMhnGNj6PMJnliyQNCps70BKus2RDWzF6emL96uZhOmwHXbM9rBX06x2hCmIF7u6gN9f5MpLV1aKxzy6Z-9yMt708GYd-pSY/s1600/Olive+111.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9gYLjFrggtzTAR_oY1eLylpYONAtY2VwizzsvQM_6nXfOMhnGNj6PMJnliyQNCps70BKus2RDWzF6emL96uZhOmwHXbM9rBX06x2hCmIF7u6gN9f5MpLV1aKxzy6Z-9yMt708GYd-pSY/s400/Olive+111.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">I feel blessed by my little family every single day. Seeing Colin fall in love with our little Olive has been one of the highest joys and privileges of my life! We love you, Colin! You have grown into your new role fabulously.</span>Colin and Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09764522558866505802noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4561051170903071628.post-55127916543144711762012-05-31T11:23:00.001-04:002012-05-31T11:24:57.550-04:00We're Here!<span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">We're in North Carolina! ...kind of. Our stuff was left behind in South Carolina for the week, as Colin and I came up to stay with my parents while Colin started his new job this week. We'll be traveling back down just to load up our truck and clean our house before we're gone for good.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">I made it through a lot of goodbyes and packing without feeling it. I don't know how we hugged our loved ones and put everything in boxes without it hitting us. When I got in the car, all alone, I broke down. The Lord blessed us with such sweet friendships in Columbia that we got to nurture and watch develop over the years. Friendships that saw us through painful things and happy things. I'm scared that we won't ever laugh so hard that we break our friends' chair again (like Colin did). Or that we'll never have the type of friends who let us waltz over for dinner, or borrow onions/any variety of missing dinner ingredient, or love us so much as to throw us any form of party that's necessary (baby shower, going away party...). We have been blessed.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">So, as not to make my heart ache any more, I'll lighten this post up with a video of Olive! She has recently, in the past week or so, begun 'talking' to us a LOT. Many of times we will have back and forth conversations consisting of her cooing and me responding, and repeat. Her little sounds are adorable, and I love seeing her develop and hit little milestones! (Also, try to ignore me sounding like a complete idiot).</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Hopefully soon I'll write more about our experience over the past TWO MONTHS (I can't believe it) with Olive. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">grace and peace!</span>Colin and Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09764522558866505802noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4561051170903071628.post-60040850781010065132012-05-13T18:48:00.000-04:002012-05-13T20:51:59.106-04:00Happy Mother's Day!<span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">This Mother's day is a completely new experience for me, obviously. Now I am not only privileged to celebrate my two amazing mothers, but I am also privileged to be celebrated as Olive's mommy. It's funny, because I feel like I'm the one who should be giving thanks. Olive has changed me in so many ways in just her short little lifespan. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">-I've learned how to tightly swaddle, change diapers efficiently, eat in a matter of seconds, take the world's fastest showers, and to maneuver a stroller with one hand while holding a bunch of groceries in the other.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">-I've learned that some babies don't just go to sleep at night, or go down for naps on their own, they need a lot of help. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">-I've learned that your heart can actually expand. And boy, does it.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">-I've learned how to be more intentional when it comes to spending time with and loving on my sweet husband.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">-I've learned and discovered just how much time I actually wasted before she came along! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">-I've learned that I'm not as patient of a person as I once thought. I need a lot of growth in this area. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">-I've learned that productivity is extremely healthy, and that sunshine and fresh air do everyone a lot of good.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">-I've learned that no matter how bleak things seem at 4 am when I'm running on no sleep and the baby's wide awake, seeing Olive's grateful smiles (maybe coupled with a good cry :)) in the morning make every tension disappear completely. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">We had a great weekend, spent with my parents. We drank mimosas and locally brewed hard cider at the Columbia farmer's market, had seafood on Saturday night, took a NAP (courtesy of Gigi and Grandpa Fien!), and had sushi for lunch this afternoon. There was lots of loving on Olive involved-- Colin and I are officially second-class citizens (haha!) and are okay with that! </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Breakfast tacos and mimosas at the All Local Farmer's Market on Saturday morning! </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Olive all tucked in at Blue Marlin :) She slept the whole time! </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Colin thought he could smile with food in his mouth and get away with it...</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gigi and Grandpa!</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Happy Mother's Day to all the wonderful Mamas in our lives. We have tremendous respect for what you do and how you pour out your hearts and energy every single day. </span>Colin and Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09764522558866505802noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4561051170903071628.post-11397648830640039092012-05-09T16:38:00.000-04:002012-05-09T16:38:22.234-04:00Gummy Grins.<span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">This little branch has been pretty much all of what my days and nights consist of:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">And, while I am incredibly tired at times (most times), and can feel like somewhat of a failure other times (not being able to figure out, for the life of me, how to get our baby to sleep some nights!), our new roles are an immense blessing and pleasure... Especially when this is the glimpse of gratitude you are given by your 5 week old! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">time, slow down a little. </span><br />
<br />Colin and Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09764522558866505802noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4561051170903071628.post-24719237320569166612012-05-03T14:53:00.000-04:002012-05-03T14:57:12.570-04:00Olive's a Month Old, and Big News!<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">If I thought before that I didn't have much time to blog, what must life be like now? I get computer time a lot of times when she is eating (which can take about an hour per feeding, she's a slow, lazy eater!), but I've found myself too scatterbrained to create a coherent post. So, apologies, this will probably be all over the place!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Olive is a month old. This post is probably going to be full of cliches, the first being this: time DOES fly. I frequently get emotional as I realize how fast the days are speeding by, and how you can't regain them, as well as how much she's growing! We absolutely cherish these days where Olive clings to our chest and falls into a deep sleep for hours. Where her only desire is to be held and be close to Mommy. About a week ago she gave me her first real, non-gas, non-sleepy smile! Every day now, in the afternoon, she gives me a huge, gummy, mouth open, tongue out smile when I get up close to her face, talk to her, and stroke her face and head. There are few things on the planet that could delight the heart more. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">It's been a wonderfully selfish type of relationship. When babies come out of the womb, Mom is all they know and their only source of comfort. They crave our smell, the sound of our heartbeat, being at the breast, and hearing our voice. Olive's life is so simple. At this stage of her life, she cries when she's hungry or lonely, that's about it (unless it's during her 'witching hour' at night. She gets fussy around 6-9 every night)! Just hearing those pitiful little whimpers coming from her room in the middle of the night or early morning cause me to jump out of bed, no matter how tired I am, and readily scoop up that little swaddled bundle and kiss her mad little face. Her absolute reliance upon me for sustenance and comfort is wonderful, if not terrifying and weighty. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">Now, that's not to say that I don't ever hand her off to Colin. I love handing her off to him when he gets home at night... He's so ready to see his daughter after a long day! He's absolutely amazing at putting her down to sleep at night, too, which affords me a little break (and a shower!) and gives him some snuggle time with Olive. Sometimes it takes her one or two hours to go down at night for the first time, and Colin graciously does whatever it takes to get her to sleep (he even got in the car at 1:30 am the other night to drive her around. she loves her car seat. It worked like a charm!)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">We also have some big news! Colin took a job in Wake Forest, North Carolina, and we're moving to Raleigh/Durham on June 1st! Back to the area I grew up in. I never thought I'd move back, but for a lot of reasons, we are, and we're very excited about it! We weren't quite actively pursuing moving, although it has been on our radar for a while, but a great job opportunity was dropped into Colin's lap and everything providentially fell right into place. We are really excited for new opportunities, as well as being really close to my family and much closer to Colin's! After having Olive, it became apparent that being near to one's family is important and valuable. We want Olive to know her grandparents, aunts and uncle, and we want them to see her grow! And truthfully, having the extra eager hands to help out (built-in, happy to help babysitters as well as support) will be amazing. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">It's been really hard, though, as we prepare ourselves to leave our home. Colin and I met, dated, fell in love, and began our lives together here in Columbia. It's peppered with our favorite spots and so many memories. The parking garage where he proposed, the sushi restaurant where we had our first date, the coffee shop/bar where we got to know each other over many, many cups of coffee, our favorite restaurants (korean, indian, sushi), and hardest of all, our amazing church family/youth group and our friends. We have great community here, and saying goodbye to people who we love will be really overwhelming and hard. To be honest, I'm scared of moving to a place that, although it's familiar, is pretty "new" in that I haven't lived there for 6 years. I'm scared that we won't find a solid community/church and quality friends. But we will trust that we've been led to this place and these things will be provided! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">So, if you still live in the Cary/Raleigh area, let's be friends! Also, if you have a great community-oriented church, please let us know. We'd love to visit!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Courier New', Courier, monospace;">grace and peace. </span>Colin and Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09764522558866505802noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4561051170903071628.post-79706343504287059532012-04-09T19:26:00.005-04:002012-04-09T19:56:26.603-04:00She's here!<div style="text-align: justify; "><span style="font-size: 100%; text-align: left; " >On April 1st at 4:44 am we welcomed Olive Rae into the world after a beautiful, natural waterbirth.</span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span ><br /></span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcawmqCnJHEVDmNt0pYS7QXWUyZgeOnWk7gbGWf_x2vQCTWAbVhlJEbtnvPUunuK7p6Dg9Qpsy73VQIrl-4QkJOrG1Jp7HSiH_-H6bv3tKWX8_XNd7kw0lvkuJtPlWRT5MIJsFo0r3790/s1600/IMG_0368.jpg"><span ><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcawmqCnJHEVDmNt0pYS7QXWUyZgeOnWk7gbGWf_x2vQCTWAbVhlJEbtnvPUunuK7p6Dg9Qpsy73VQIrl-4QkJOrG1Jp7HSiH_-H6bv3tKWX8_XNd7kw0lvkuJtPlWRT5MIJsFo0r3790/s400/IMG_0368.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5729552888361810066" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></span></a></div><div><div style="text-align: center; "><span ><u><br /></u></span></div><span ><span><span style="font-size: 100%;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 100%; ">I can't wait to share her birth story with everyone who reads our blog! I'm trying to decide between writing a more detailed birth story and breaking it up into parts or just writing a more succinct one. I'll probably write a long one-- the details are what make it precious, at least to me!</span></span><div style="font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span ><br /></span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span >This past week of motherhood has been indescribable. Our love for her was instant, but it is built upon every day that passes as we get to know this little person. We spend so much of our time just staring at her and kissing her all over (when she's not pooping, sleeping, or eating, which is pretty much all the time. haha). </span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span ><br /></span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span >There have definitely been challenges to overcome (sleepless nights, some difficulties with breast feeding), but there is so much value to the task that's been set before us. Parenting... motherhood... is such a high calling. God's glory is all over it. I know that it's cliche, but you do find that your heart expands in such an extreme way to welcome all of the feelings you have for this new little creature! At the same time, I've (and Colin has reiterated this feeling) never known fear like I do now. I can't imagine anything bad befalling Olive. It's too much to bear. </span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span ><br /></span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span >I am grateful for the Mother's heart that God is growing in me, and grateful to watch Colin develop more and more of a Father's heart. There is nothing like seeing those two together-- right now I am watching Colin start to put dinner together, wearing Olive in her Moby wrap. She's fast asleep snuggled against her Daddy's chest.</span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span ><br /></span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span >Thank you for loving us and our Olive Branch!</span></div></div>Colin and Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09764522558866505802noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4561051170903071628.post-23803271776871156622012-04-07T18:23:00.009-04:002012-04-12T11:57:49.846-04:00Olive's Birth Story.<div style="font-size: 100%; text-align: justify; "><span style="font-size: 100%; text-align: left; "><span >I decided to write out Olive's birth story on our blog for a few reasons. First, because her birth was (second to Colin and I becoming man and wife and coming to know the Lord) one of the most powerful and beautiful moments of my life. I read a lot of birth stories on various blogs and websites in the weeks leading up to our birthing time, so if there is anyone who finds this interesting, informative, or encouraging, it is worth it! <span>***Disclaimer***</span> it IS a birth story, so there may be some details that make some people uncomfortable. Please don't continue if you think this is the case for you! There are also a few pictures at the end. No nudity is shown, but there is a picture of a newborn baby with vernix and some blood covering her. Don't scroll down if you're squeamish!</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span ><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span >The weeks leading up to Olive's birthing time were, as I've said before, full of peace and patience. We were obviously very excited to meet her, and to experience birth, but at the same time we were confident that she would come when she was ready, and we wanted to cherish our last moments together as a single family. If ever there were slight discouragement, it was only because my body had shown no signs whatsoever of impending labor-- only the mildest of Braxton-Hicks contractions, I was still carrying very high...etc. I chose not to do internal exams at my appointments as well, so I had no information to go on. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span ><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span >I woke up on Saturday morning and pretty quickly began to notice that my pressure waves (Hypnobabies talk for contractions) were more powerful, and I could feel them wrapping around my back. This was exciting for me, but at the same time I knew that many women have stronger pressure waves for weeks before their birthing time. Colin and I got dressed and ready and headed off to his afternoon soccer game, where I decided to walk the length of the field back and forth, back and forth, to see if anything happened with my waves. The whole time I was experiencing the pressure waves , but thinking very little of it, besides how cool it was to have a new sensation. After Colin's game, we headed home and laid down for an afternoon nap. I could only sleep about a half an hour (Colin slept for 3 hours, which turned out to be a very good thing!), but did notice that during my rest the waves hadn't slowed down or gone away at all, despite my being well hydrated and comfortable. I woke up and made dinner, still in doubt. When Colin woke up, we ate and hung out a little bit and watched an episode of The Office. I could tell that he was quietly watching me as I sat on our birthing ball and dealt with the ever-increasing strength of the waves. He was very calm and encouraging (as he would continue to be throughout or birthing time!), and made no attempt at timing them... he just watched me as I experienced them. Around 8 or 9 o'clock our landlords came over, and as we were chatting with them my pressure waves became stronger. I was unable (well, more unwilling at this point) to interact during them, so I began to lean over the counter and focus my way through them.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span ><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span >After they left, Colin and I decided that it may behoove us to begin listening to our Hypnobabies track "Easy First Stage". I didn't particularly enjoy this part of our early labor, as I much preferred to be able to move around instead of being in the "off switch" position (where your body has been trained to remain loose and limp from head to toe). It was at this point, around 11 o'clock, that I began really using my Hypnobabies training by switching to the "center switch" position (where you direct your anesthesia and relaxation to your birthing muscles, and are fully able to interact and move around as desired). I was still in disbelief that I was in actual labor, even though my pressure waves were about a minute long and 2-3 minutes apart (Looking back: WHAT?? ha!). I was very comfortable and would in no way describe these pressure waves as painful. My mind and body fully accepted every wave with gladness and excitement-- I knew that whatever was going on in my body was preparing it for our little girl's arrival. I smiled, laughed, and talked with Colin in between every pressure wave. This definitely contributed to my disbelief. I always imagined that labor would be much more grueling, even though we prepared very well with Hypnobabies. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span ><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span >I had always thought that I would be very active (walking) during the early stages of labor. I knew this was good for positioning the baby as well as keeping labor progressing. But, when it came down to it, all I really wanted during these waves was to be sitting down or squatting, with my arms or forehead on Colin's shoulders, focusing, breathing and lowly "aah"ing. It felt good for me to vocalize the pressure I was feeling. After a little while, Colin suggested getting in the warm bathtub. He lit some candles, turned the light off, and played guitar for me and sang while I worked through each coming wave. I cherish that memory.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span ><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span > It was soon after that Colin insisted that we call our midwives (again, I was still in some form of disbelief and had been asking him not to. I think at this point I knew things were happening, but again, had heard so many times that first time labors are usually very long. I knew we could be laboring well into the morning and next day, so I didn't want to get ahead of ourselves. Olive had other plans). After talking to them on the phone and having them listen through one of my pressure waves, they confirmed that I was most likely in active labor. They advised laying down to try and sleep for an hour, and calling back. Well, there was NO WAY I was going to be able to sleep, as the waves were becoming longer and closer together (still around a minute long but no more than two minutes apart). I wanted to feel clean and comfortable, so I decided to shower, as it helped me relax. Colin was at this point finishing up packing our bags (birthing clothes, all of the fresh fruit, protein and such for smoothies during labor), and I could see the excitement in his face, although he kept his physical excitement low (adrenaline is contagious and works against the birthing process). It was while he was packing the car that I noticed some bloody show when I went to the bathroom (I know, TMI, but as I said, this is a birth story!). As I had previously stated, we had learned to keep our adrenaline to a minimum in our classes, but I couldn't help but excitedly yell out to Colin, "BLOODY SHOW! BLOOODYYY SHOWWW!!". This is when I knew that I was in actual labor for the first time! It took me that long, but now it was undeniable. I became even more excited. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span ><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span >At 1:45 am, Colin and I knew it was time to head to the Birthing Center. Between waves I moved myself from our bedroom and onto our couch, and then I promptly vomited multiple times. I knew this was one way my body was alerting me that I was progressing in the laboring process. I was so happy! I continued breathing and "aah"ing through every pressure wave, with Colin by my side for every single one, offering a hand to hold, a forehead to lean on, and shoulders to grasp. We got into the car and began to make the 15 minute drive to Covenant Birth Center. I can honestly say that was the most surreal drive-- we knew that our lives were about to change forever. We knew so little of what to expect. 9 months just can't prepare you for that moment. It was so quiet on the road, and despite having frequent and long pressure waves, there was such an air of peace in that early morning hour. I don't think I'll ever look at I-20 and I-26 the same. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span ><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span >We got to the Birthing Center and our two midwives, Lisa and Alex, were bustling around making preparations. The first thing that they had me do was get on my back on the bed to be checked. (Side Note: I officially feel awful for women who are forced to spend their entire labors on their backs. That one minute it took our midwife to check me was so extremely uncomfortable!) She looked at me and smiled as she told us that I was 7-8 cm dilated (I was already in Transition!), and she could feel my bag of waters bulging! This gave me a burst of confidence, as one of my fears in labor was lack of progression. Colin and I had made it through our entire active labor at home and were in the middle of the "most difficult" part. It was around 2 a.m. I was so incredibly proud of our baby and, as strange as this may sound, continued to look forward to the rest of our birthing time. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span ><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span >Colin began helping Lisa and Alex fill up the inflatable birth pool as I continued working through the waves. I found it comfortable to labor on the toilet (How odd is that?), so I sat there for a good amount of time. It was a very surreal experience, being at the Birth Center. This is the place that I knew we were going to deliver Olive at for months. This is the place where I had learned so much about pregnancy and our baby, month after month. The lights were dim, there was music going, and I was left in peace with Colin to work our baby out. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span ><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span ><span style="font-size: 100%;">There must have been a time vortex somewhere in the center, because we really did lose all sense of time. The next thing I knew, my water broke as I was sitting on the toilet (Very convenient)! Our midwife, Lisa, looked at me and said, "You're planning a water birth, right? Well, I'd suggest getting into the tub before this turns into a toilet birth." HA! The tub was full of water and I was able to climb in. If you are pregnant and planning a natural birth, I highly recommend laboring in the water! It felt amazing to have weight taken off of my body, and it was much easier to </span>maneuver<span style="font-size: 100%;"> myself into different positions. The quietness of the room was perfect. The midwives were incredible-- they really left Colin and I to ourselves. They had told us before that they wanted to give each of their clients what they needed and wanted in labor (within reason, of course), and it was clear that what we needed most was to be in peace, together. So with the exception of quietly sitting and watching and occasionally checking Olive's heart rate, Colin and I were left to experience much of our labor alone together. </span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span style="font-size: 100%;" ><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span style="font-size: 100%;" >Let me tell you a little bit about Colin as my birth partner. If ever I witnessed silent strength, this was the moment. He spoke to me in near whispers, speaking the word, "peace" in my ear over and over and reminding me to go to my "Special Place" (a Hypnobabies technique in which the mother mentally and emotionally goes to a safe place with her baby). He recited Psalm 16 with me during pressure waves. I felt like he was anchoring me, watching over me and protecting me, and radiating pride all at the same time! His affirmation, I'm sure, had so much to do with the confidence I felt our entire birth. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span style="font-size: 100%;" ><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span style="font-size: 100%;" >The pressure waves were now seemingly right on top of each other and much, much stronger. As weird as it sounds, my heart felt gratitude towards them. I think this is one of the main principles of Hypnobabies that really became engrained in my mind and heart and helped me through labor. These powerful sensations were taking over my entire being in order to help our baby come to us safely, and soon! My "aah"ing became more intense, but again, as strange as it may sound, I can honestly say that pain was still not the sensation that I was feeling. Minutes after my water broke, my body began to attempt pushing without me! It was such an odd feeling, not being able to control such a thing. Lisa instructed me to reach down and feel our baby's head for the first time. Talk about surreal. I could feel her hair and her scrunched up skin! This gave me the boost of energy I needed, and soon I was able to participate in the ride my body was taking me on. I had heard women say that pushing was such a relief, and I have to agree. Allowing your body to take over you for hours is one thing-- being able to work along with it is awesome. I focused on breathing her out instead of vigorously pushing, but when it came down to it, it felt good to put a little bit of power behind it. The midwives were again amazing and allowed me to choose how long and hard to push on my own. So, with my arms around Colin's neck (he was in the tub at this point), I began to work baby girl out. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span style="font-size: 100%;" ><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span style="font-size: 100%;" >Every pressure wave brought her head down more and more. The midwives kept encouraging me to feel her! I can honestly say that birthing at that point becomes such an animalistic process. The noises that you make and the focused mindset that you come into is purely... animal. I don't know how else to put it. It was so powerful. After about 20 minutes of pushing, Lisa asked if I would like to change positions to make it easier for both Colin and I to see Olive come out. So, with Colin's arms around me from behind and me leaning into him, I pushed. After two pressure waves, I pushed for the last time as Olive's head came out. What a strange sensation! One more push and out came her squirmy little (or, not so little) body. Colin quickly retrieved her from the water and brought her to my chest. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span style="font-size: 100%;" ><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span style="font-size: 100%;" >Her body felt so good in my arms. She was so squishy and soft! One reason I am so glad we did a natural birth was the state she was in when she came out. I imagine the transition from womb to world is usually pretty traumatizing-- going from a warm, wet, and dark environment to a cold and usually bright room. But she was born into the warm water, and because of the lack of drugs in both of our systems, her eyes were open when she came out! She let out a scream immediately. Colin and I were both in such disbelief. All I could say over and over (after asking, "Is she still a girl?" haha) was "my baby. my baby!". After the cord stopped pulsing, Lisa allowed Colin to cut through the cord. He was amazed at how strong it was! They handed Olive off to Colin to go lay on the bed, skin to skin, while I delivered the placenta and got checked out. That was a very long few minutes for me, as my body was hemorrhaging blood and wouldn't stop, on top of having a bad tear from her unexpected size and how quickly she came out. They had to give me a shot of pitocin in my leg and monitored me closely. None of this mattered. I got to hold my baby girl and nursed her for 45 minutes, drinking it all in with Colin. She ended up being 9 lbs. 3 oz. (which is funny, because just days before, Lisa predicted around 6 lbs. 10 oz.! HA!), 22 inches long, and scored a 10/10 on the apgar scale. We were all shocked at her size-- especially because of the amount of weight I actually gained in pregnancy, how much I showed, and a pretty intentional diet. So it goes-- the perks are plenty of fat rolls to kiss and pinch! </span></div><div style="text-align: justify; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span style="font-size: 100%;" ><br /></span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmhupzzQCnrGpVk0GxmKBNt9JQmNDoSWqBf7-mSMcTn5nV-8_Xhw7DH6AAW4PL6y-9ZStOFoRhDGTqRvUFxuNc29EWsEBS7p8fccg3cMZF1sk08tHJLKIzxldGyCXFXJ8BjESzKN9a8wA/s1600/IMG_0319.JPG"><span ><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmhupzzQCnrGpVk0GxmKBNt9JQmNDoSWqBf7-mSMcTn5nV-8_Xhw7DH6AAW4PL6y-9ZStOFoRhDGTqRvUFxuNc29EWsEBS7p8fccg3cMZF1sk08tHJLKIzxldGyCXFXJ8BjESzKN9a8wA/s400/IMG_0319.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5730542336524033634" style="text-align: justify;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></a></div><div style="text-align: center; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span >Preparing for the next pressure wave, right before Olive was born!</span></div><div style="text-align: justify; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span ><br /></span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAMbZtwT-5CamDKwdK9G7I2ttmPWSDoIwRmaDOj2vhx7wZ4qyRN-vjwS3tm9V-TtLsnWTVluGovMmxQfyAtJhv4XrIOXLjiDtU2rPKQ0uZfCk_DimLleoKq3Qn7DYjnZD3ChcKezibkfM/s1600/IMG_0337.JPG"><span ><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAMbZtwT-5CamDKwdK9G7I2ttmPWSDoIwRmaDOj2vhx7wZ4qyRN-vjwS3tm9V-TtLsnWTVluGovMmxQfyAtJhv4XrIOXLjiDtU2rPKQ0uZfCk_DimLleoKq3Qn7DYjnZD3ChcKezibkfM/s400/IMG_0337.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5730542493548618066" style="text-align: justify;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></a></div><div style="text-align: center; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span >Seconds after she was born! </span></div><div style="text-align: justify; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span ><br /></span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbBv0QyFktYehVD8U2wPiQ15exzdLKjwivK0-3zIERl1IeBgRNwNbqubggLm2lUzmXm8YwlKfqm3rgMvRYZNdr98A4tjbbXMnK3V4AMyL9jLIEJO7iPp4FMUpJzszA_oCXtn_KSIACxoM/s1600/IMG_0343.JPG" style="font-size: 16px; "><span ><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbBv0QyFktYehVD8U2wPiQ15exzdLKjwivK0-3zIERl1IeBgRNwNbqubggLm2lUzmXm8YwlKfqm3rgMvRYZNdr98A4tjbbXMnK3V4AMyL9jLIEJO7iPp4FMUpJzszA_oCXtn_KSIACxoM/s400/IMG_0343.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5730542675166425138" style="text-align: justify;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></a></div><div style="text-align: center; "><span >Daddy having skin to skin time with his new daughter. </span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; text-align: justify; "><span ><br /></span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; text-align: justify; "><span ><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span style="font-size: 100%; "><span >Olive's birth was perfect. I could have never truly imagined what it would be like to experience labor, which is possibly a lot of the reason I was in disbelief for the vast majority of it. I highly recommend preparing your body, mind, and heart for such an experience with a class like Hypnobabies. It cleared any tension and fear I had about birth and replaced those bad thoughts with truth and confidence. It's hard to explain how, but practicing creating anesthesia and being able to direct it where you need it in your body actually works! We were blessed to be able to bring Olive into the world in peace with a quick and uncomplicated labor. The midwives at Covenant offered us so much information during pregnancy as well as a strong knowledge of how to treat the laboring process. I have so much confidence in them and am such an advocate for what they do!</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span ><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span >God is so gracious to us! Thank you for reading through all of this. I am so impressed if you made it the whole way through. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span ><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span >Grace and Peace!</span></div>Colin and Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09764522558866505802noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4561051170903071628.post-489324576313985912012-03-29T18:03:00.007-04:002012-03-29T18:37:14.824-04:00Big Mama. 40 weeks!<div style="font-size: 100%; text-align: justify; "><span style="font-size: 100%; text-align: left; "><span >We've made it to our guess date! It's so strange seeing the calendar convey that it's past her date (A friend even texted me the other day and said she bought MEAT that expired on our guess date! ha!) . We have so long awaited and anticipated the end of March that it's really surreal that it's happening! I am pretty sure our March baby will be an April baby. What a beautiful time to be born.</span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span ><br /></span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span >Let's hit the highlights, shall we?</span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span ><br /></span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6hRAmOAwZTYD3Q3qFEu0edPW1hNw2CdF7vo8TAK-5HHQZ45f_R9fQtjbhcTF2yUfGoca1eV-xDDuogwxOPO8uoYPvYxvKZktfPy4DYXrlJiffKX62Se6F3_WEYwJVGv36pHbw1omIllI/s1600/photo+2.jpg"><span ><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6hRAmOAwZTYD3Q3qFEu0edPW1hNw2CdF7vo8TAK-5HHQZ45f_R9fQtjbhcTF2yUfGoca1eV-xDDuogwxOPO8uoYPvYxvKZktfPy4DYXrlJiffKX62Se6F3_WEYwJVGv36pHbw1omIllI/s400/photo+2.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5725443902867213954" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></span></a></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmdxOCndNRtXNb1rwwkx9k4ac35bAYhIONl6oRR3wRFg_SEzDJkRn71F-Dfc0TV7koxGb1ae8itOWwLo0ePe53k85FFqlhK28ANQ39n2FdIFc6YYikvuTZFIOFdA6Lnq53E452Oyh804I/s1600/photo+4.jpg"><span ><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmdxOCndNRtXNb1rwwkx9k4ac35bAYhIONl6oRR3wRFg_SEzDJkRn71F-Dfc0TV7koxGb1ae8itOWwLo0ePe53k85FFqlhK28ANQ39n2FdIFc6YYikvuTZFIOFdA6Lnq53E452Oyh804I/s400/photo+4.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5725444013029246514" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></span></a></div><div style="text-align: center; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span >Yup. Woah, Mama. </span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span ><br /></span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span >Still carrying Olive up pretty high. She hasn't dropped down yet, which actually was a huge blessing, because two weeks ago she decided to flip over onto my right side in a posterior position (which is definitely unfavorable for birthing. It often results in very, very long painful labors and a lot of heavy back labor). I felt the little bug do it and it had me worried for two weeks. Thanks to great midwifery advice, which involved lots of crawling around on my hands and knees, pelvic rocks, <a href="http://spinningbabies.com/techniques/activities-for-fetal-positioning/rebozo-sifting">rebozo sifting</a>, and swiveling on the birth ball, we found out today that Olive flipped back over and is in a great position for birthing! HOORAY!</span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span ><br /></span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span >Today at our appointment, our midwife and a student they had there led Colin in feeling all of Olive's little body parts. He got to fee her little rump, her limbs, and most exciting of all, her bobbly little head... it just killed me in the best possible way to see him really get into it and be amazed by her little figure. Our midwife, Lisa, joked that Colin was a midwife in the making (because of how hands-on and excited he is!). It really is the most awesome thing seeing Colin engage with this pregnancy, and I feel blessed. When I went to the bathroom during our appointment, I come back and saw him scrutinizing a chart on the wall that was all about the physiology of breast milk production and Lisa was explaining a few things to him. So cute. </span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span ><br /></span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span >Last week I started feeling funny, and while I chalked it up to allergies for a day or so, I woke up Wednesday morning the sickest I've ever been. Every joint and bone in my body felt like it was being ripped apart, and I had a fever of 101.5. Colin knew something was very wrong, so he took me to the doctor and they confirmed that I had Swine Flu. Swine Flu?! Who gets that?? Thankfully, Colin got vaccinated a couple of months ago, so he was able to be with me still. It was just scary realizing that Olive could come at any time... not to mention, the flu is super dangerous for pregnant women! God was gracious, as were so many people who prayed for us, and I have healed up quickly and well! </span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span ><br /></span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span >So now, we wait. We're patiently waiting, but boy would we be so thrilled if she decided to come tonight! I would be so excited to see these Braxton-Hicks contractions turn into the real thing. But my heart, especially, is well, and I feel blessed right now with quality rest and comfort. It's a very peaceful expectancy as we wait for Olive to pick the perfect time for her to be born. </span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span ><br /></span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span >Thanks for following our journey! We're coming to the end of this chapter, and hopefully the next post we write will have Olive's face in it! </span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><br /></div>Colin and Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09764522558866505802noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4561051170903071628.post-20061903612218803812012-03-09T20:09:00.004-05:002012-03-09T20:37:43.972-05:00Full Term!<div style="text-align: justify; "><span style="font-size: 100%; text-align: left; " >I am such a slack blogger. I won't apologize again!</span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span ><br /></span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span >This past week we hit another awesome milestone-- 37 weeks (Baby is the size of a watermelon. a WATER-MELON. aah!)! We can now safely deliver at our out of hospital Birthing Center. We are becoming increasingly excited for our birthing time, not only for the end result (which will, obviously, be the best), but even for the process of laboring to have her. We both have a lot of peace and assurance as we face the marathon that's ahead. </span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span ><br /></span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span >We have also been really slack about taking belly photos, but I did snap this rather disturbing one the other day so I could show Colin while he was at work! Olive's movements weeks ago changed from kicks and jabs to what we call "lumping". Throughout the day, I'll get all sorts of sizes of lumps that stick out or run along my tummy. It's crazy. Check this out. </span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span ><br /></span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD9Jej0ylzgkspSylWrnz-vRIPOCsAKrVqwmkpTBR0d47tSNkLd6wizx-oLvSpuXUDVfGQY8F7X0TGlpL-WbdO5Z9HVdP6H1Vnev385sNjq6HDD8Aohe-yPR6Hxhyphenhyphenfj1mbpsiHuNR4IY0/s1600/IMG_0240.JPG"><span ><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD9Jej0ylzgkspSylWrnz-vRIPOCsAKrVqwmkpTBR0d47tSNkLd6wizx-oLvSpuXUDVfGQY8F7X0TGlpL-WbdO5Z9HVdP6H1Vnev385sNjq6HDD8Aohe-yPR6Hxhyphenhyphenfj1mbpsiHuNR4IY0/s400/IMG_0240.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5718070333128310578" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></span></a></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span ><br /></span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span >See that huge lump on the right side? That's about where her knees are, so I'm assuming that's what is sticking out here (For reference, the skinny dark line going down my stomach is usually right in the middle. That shows you how off kilter her lumps make my tummy!). Her body parts are a lot more distinguishable. Colin loves guessing what he's touching. We've picked out her shoulders, elbows, and leg bones at times! I love experiencing her in all of her baby-ness. She gets hiccups a few times a day now, too. So cute. </span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span ><br /></span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span >Right now I am so overwhelmed with the piles and piles of stuff that we have for her. It literally seems like we have another roommate moving in! It's going to be fun finding space for everything (What a blessed problem to have, right? :))</span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span ><br /></span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span >Although things are being crossed off of our Pre-Baby To-Do list, it seems like new things are added every single day. One of my favorite things, though, was Colin installing our car seat! We got a new car recently, so driving around in my new mom-mobile with a car seat in the back makes my heart sing a little bit. </span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span ><br /></span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span >Overall, there is still so little for me to complain about. I feel really blessed in and by this pregnancy. I know that a lot of women are (understandably!) miserable, especially at the end, but that has not been my experience. I love carrying her, and I feel so incredibly grateful for the experience and opportunity that will result in our little Olive being in our arms in a few weeks. There is so much to be thankful for. Pregnancy and expectancy has grown so much intimacy between Colin and I. It's been such a sweet time for us as a couple. I can't wait to see another facet of Colin develop as he puts on a new hat-- Daddy. </span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span ><br /></span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; "><span >Thanks for reading! More to come, I hope. Grace and Peace! </span></div>Colin and Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09764522558866505802noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4561051170903071628.post-30148991049399681212012-02-16T12:36:00.010-05:002012-02-16T13:06:00.064-05:00Photographed.<div style="text-align: justify; "><span style="font-size: 100%; text-align: left; " >This weekend we had our maternity photos taken by our friend, <a href="http://sarahscruggsphotography.blogspot.com/">Sarah Scruggs</a>. We were so blessed to have her! Sarah is such an easy person to be around, and her presence and style really put us at ease. The whole time she was shooting her face would light up with excitement over a new idea, or her eye would catch the simplest line or color or detail on the scene. Despite the FREEZING temperatures and the crazy amounts of wind at the marina (that my body would succumb to, in the form of a cold, the following day. still, well worth it!), we had such a great time. Thanks, Sarah! </span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span style="font-size: 100%; text-align: left; " ><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify; "><span style="font-size: 100%; text-align: left; " >Here are just a few of the previews she sent us. We couldn't be happier about them, and can't wait to see the rest! </span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; text-align: left; "><span><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbHWv_1r0qBxhOH7mRkU_eO0Raew23fgWt4J9HAeptwAyiO8Gy1ZfYjsUKADpMv-aTl7l0Yi-TsbxTabscsUphOuWslvTtvKbMCUNyey6DOvAFDrPddoCYok03K4s-frGaYR7awJhJRMI/s1600/prego9.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbHWv_1r0qBxhOH7mRkU_eO0Raew23fgWt4J9HAeptwAyiO8Gy1ZfYjsUKADpMv-aTl7l0Yi-TsbxTabscsUphOuWslvTtvKbMCUNyey6DOvAFDrPddoCYok03K4s-frGaYR7awJhJRMI/s400/prego9.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5709790549594834098" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 278px; " /></a></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC6FVWxGrvJWEPjzYcAgNGZ1_69_rYCqww-4rfYXGIuPLVzuzsHM-iCtR2zDddqsQHhn_Qd8yq3QHnnIr4rM_3Hs9eTyeEUG4dNVRpPTItQCZlIlrp62yJ5NsnhXGIH7tPilAhMff8CQk/s1600/prego8.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC6FVWxGrvJWEPjzYcAgNGZ1_69_rYCqww-4rfYXGIuPLVzuzsHM-iCtR2zDddqsQHhn_Qd8yq3QHnnIr4rM_3Hs9eTyeEUG4dNVRpPTItQCZlIlrp62yJ5NsnhXGIH7tPilAhMff8CQk/s400/prego8.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5709790222304892914" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 278px; " /></a></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1ThyphenhyphentDYnSG_YEt3l5UPvufMuEi7QuflfHq6mrBTws3zFT54mso5mOsrsEXJODksRHbufAYFk8Er3nfS92hFRFGi6Bg0cD_5ZotmBVgO2fOYk31o8oSXh2RqwnEztaa1I4FFum9yUATlo/s1600/prego5.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1ThyphenhyphentDYnSG_YEt3l5UPvufMuEi7QuflfHq6mrBTws3zFT54mso5mOsrsEXJODksRHbufAYFk8Er3nfS92hFRFGi6Bg0cD_5ZotmBVgO2fOYk31o8oSXh2RqwnEztaa1I4FFum9yUATlo/s400/prego5.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5709790833226994322" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 278px; " /></a></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; "><br /></div><div><span >Besides the photo shoot, we were able to stay in a beautiful hotel thanks to Sarah's husband, Charley, being a pastry chef at the resort! We went out to Poe's Tavern on Sullivan's Island that night for fish tacos and burgers, then walked across the street to a sweet little wine and espresso bar. There were about five older men in there, having a jam session, and, as fate would have it, they loved playing Creed songs. Imagine our excitement. We were so grateful for a short pause in life to spend together-- things have been pretty hectic lately. </span></div><div><span ><br /></span></div><div><span >We also decided over the weekend to go ahead and announce Little Girl's name! We have had it picked out for months and months, but for a lot of reasons decided to wait. Colin and I's daughter's name is...</span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; "><span><br /></span></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; "><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxak_dQPS3S3UO6GUwkQGQ8FY4ATtPf83gRmDTo7igAIFXTTS1E5OnBfcSf92XQxSVlp9qXV2tpFD3fY9sBdoE-LS4f9s5yjp3bhQZClvvm2Uv5YU86DCulgmdltvuP0iUS5Js9zAyDso/s1600/prego6.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxak_dQPS3S3UO6GUwkQGQ8FY4ATtPf83gRmDTo7igAIFXTTS1E5OnBfcSf92XQxSVlp9qXV2tpFD3fY9sBdoE-LS4f9s5yjp3bhQZClvvm2Uv5YU86DCulgmdltvuP0iUS5Js9zAyDso/s400/prego6.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5709792218020988642" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px; " /></a></div><div style="font-family: Georgia, serif; "><br /></div><div><span >We couldn't be more in love with our "little branch", as Colin calls her. I have loved the name Olive for a long time, and love that all over the Bible it is used as a symbol of peace. In Romans 11, Paul writes about how we, as Gentiles, were wild olive shoots that have been grafted onto the tree (God's people) and are able to share in the "nourishing root" (Salvation). Beautiful. Her middle name, Rae, is special to us, because two awesome women in her life share the name! Rae is Colin's Grandmother's first name and his sister's middle name. </span></div><div><span ><br /></span></div><div><span >34 weeks down! grace and peace! </span></div>Colin and Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09764522558866505802noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4561051170903071628.post-48776944855981407722012-02-05T22:15:00.010-05:002012-02-06T10:32:08.082-05:0032.5!<div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left; ">Moving right along! Hopefully we have the 7-8 more weeks we're expecting until this little one comes out... my to-do list is overwhelming (not to mention our shower isn't for 3 more weeks!). I have to stop frequently and remind myself, as I'm freaking out over our lack of baby items or preparedness, that she has everything she'll need already, even if she came today. A place to sleep, a food supply, clothes, and a whole lot of love. </span><i style="text-align: left; ">Rest, Rachel</i><span style="text-align: left; ">.</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left; "><br /></span></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5PYYkifUMigiz-zxETYzz4NznG_jp3u4sgAepuBneAhnWwiSwsVVf1NGJKJELhLuPyakzxA0VubcoLVqvLwoPBwCcQhrM8mhKOz9rJfo8u-yLliFY4CklsN-1l0GSNNQQlmzR1r3Io8Q/s1600/IMG_0203.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5PYYkifUMigiz-zxETYzz4NznG_jp3u4sgAepuBneAhnWwiSwsVVf1NGJKJELhLuPyakzxA0VubcoLVqvLwoPBwCcQhrM8mhKOz9rJfo8u-yLliFY4CklsN-1l0GSNNQQlmzR1r3Io8Q/s400/IMG_0203.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5705856297955343010" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA8PlhiqTjFAsvhj0gxyOlgIl4mAyuXVKDdRtBzTcPAX2HQIe1ggffiF08uenad_z4oIf_jyzFlUGfEyOFPfr-qJU2AKYCPHA-JWatEmfMhLtZ5lSJj4DopTPgYFZD2TNaM115j2VBiUU/s1600/IMG_0204.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA8PlhiqTjFAsvhj0gxyOlgIl4mAyuXVKDdRtBzTcPAX2HQIe1ggffiF08uenad_z4oIf_jyzFlUGfEyOFPfr-qJU2AKYCPHA-JWatEmfMhLtZ5lSJj4DopTPgYFZD2TNaM115j2VBiUU/s400/IMG_0204.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5706043960236726002" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHnMUumESHOrjfrXKo8nBg8djq2mOY4rJ54ymsvVg3Ju0tFKixTrICc9CAtnzfyX9wcHJ22khLLHUeIygozd8qpgCdxa2lb8JNGbzRwArHzEC4dqIJ7iJGizIvsqzn6pEuz7ZLOa9tj3A/s1600/IMG_0210.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHnMUumESHOrjfrXKo8nBg8djq2mOY4rJ54ymsvVg3Ju0tFKixTrICc9CAtnzfyX9wcHJ22khLLHUeIygozd8qpgCdxa2lb8JNGbzRwArHzEC4dqIJ7iJGizIvsqzn6pEuz7ZLOa9tj3A/s400/IMG_0210.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5705857093296373090" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>It's so funny... are there any pregnant women out there who don't feel huge? I feel huge and round and love it, but when I see pictures of myself, I can't help but think.. <i>holy crap</i>. Then, on the flip side, I encounter other pregnant women (like this past week at our birthing class) who are months behind me in pregnancy and showing more, and I don't think they're huge at all. I guess that's what sudden body change will do to you! But I say it all the time, my little girl's residence is my favorite accessory. I know I'm going to miss it after she's born (although, it will be nice to have some semblance of a waist again!). </div><div><br /></div><div>Speaking of our birthing class, we love it! I am inspired by the Hypnobabies model of birthing, and the confidence and peace it instills in its mothers in the time leading up to birth and throughout birth. Our instructor spoke a lot about the importance of positive thoughts and a positive environment for expecting mothers, and even how important it is to ward off negativity and the sharing of negative birth/pregnancy experiences (you know you've all encountered acquaintances who are just dying to tell you all about their 48 hour natural labor with a 15 lb baby....etc.). This also includes any birth shows on TV! Colin was listening so well, he even busted out the suggested (holds his hand up) "Stop. my baby and I are listening" the other day! Ha! Hypnobabies is all about entering into deep relaxation and training yourself to work with, not against, your body during birth. The statistics for women who use Hypnobabies for birthing are overwhelming-- shorter births, less discomfort, and a much higher success rate of natural, unmedicated birth. I'm sure we'll be sharing more about our experience with it as time progresses! </div><div><br /></div><div>Also, I think I'm officially getting past the point of stretching my non-maternity wardrobe out. I was pretty adamant about buying only a few maternity basics and either thrifting new skirts/dresses and things throughout the weeks. I bought a couple of pairs of pants, about 5 awesome plain tees (Gap is the best), some leggings... but really, have found that a lot of my dresses accomodate a growing belly, at least up to a point. This may just be that point. :) </div><div><br /></div><div>Sometimes I feel dumb for sharing such random and small details on the internet, but it is a personal blog, after all. If nothing else, it really does serve as a journal, and a way to be able to look back on the different stages of life! </div><div><br /></div><div>grace and peace,</div><div>The Kisers </div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiHY3NS8ssN8YLEMLKljUzQd74VzWDMsPZp16crkxohSHITcnBbDEQ8aovV3O4JMedX186DuPWprH1-zFxak9hdbmyCosS_l7GRk7oA-MLaSPPbjHgJ54UsVBc_Yy1tWfl2Hpkr_2E844/s1600/IMG_0212.JPG"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiHY3NS8ssN8YLEMLKljUzQd74VzWDMsPZp16crkxohSHITcnBbDEQ8aovV3O4JMedX186DuPWprH1-zFxak9hdbmyCosS_l7GRk7oA-MLaSPPbjHgJ54UsVBc_Yy1tWfl2Hpkr_2E844/s400/IMG_0212.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5706045495471650402" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div>Colin and Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09764522558866505802noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4561051170903071628.post-11029930326072567492012-01-21T17:41:00.006-05:002012-01-21T18:10:49.429-05:0030.5 weeks!<div style="text-align: left;">I am such a slack pregnant belly photo taker/blogger. Apologies! Apologies all around! (If you got that Arrested Development reference, pat yourself on the back). Since it's been 6 weeks since our previous pregnancy update, obviously things have changed a little!</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzAHAMwFqRMqJ6hJRt2C5NP_Ta6mvxpgp6GqMKFolx_Ez_pm7STsY2rFkzsIUJt_MWVTtW-DC9141_7h8Vo7oBWtuCnBve-i2Q8ZV9j71gC8kvdByndEgWslLUF5f8R0pRp7Kbk7_9wRk/s1600/IMG_0159.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzAHAMwFqRMqJ6hJRt2C5NP_Ta6mvxpgp6GqMKFolx_Ez_pm7STsY2rFkzsIUJt_MWVTtW-DC9141_7h8Vo7oBWtuCnBve-i2Q8ZV9j71gC8kvdByndEgWslLUF5f8R0pRp7Kbk7_9wRk/s400/IMG_0159.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5700219582574840402" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhstyevlPMQCVgpFIfCgy5mhVwgVpwv-C3jQ-A9_81x7wqbQRL3YGlBxlGlLHnEP53kmjz4NPbwWS9Czwn9djLRmHYFs3tuyKViI2_dPmWhRsRrXgp1Tgn5FZUgtDgdLycg6WUatyd1Nxw/s1600/IMG_0162.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhstyevlPMQCVgpFIfCgy5mhVwgVpwv-C3jQ-A9_81x7wqbQRL3YGlBxlGlLHnEP53kmjz4NPbwWS9Czwn9djLRmHYFs3tuyKViI2_dPmWhRsRrXgp1Tgn5FZUgtDgdLycg6WUatyd1Nxw/s400/IMG_0162.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5700223681402834178" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></a></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNJoYv-IgJicpscKhQOLiz_zxVnJ1i9Un7jYXH2OFmF2FYXaRonETVmtLkRliJYPCIvIvusObjUJwKlfT7pKhV3n3KmdbQihYA68q45lPWf4VqkZ4dLrX_lNvDYUNqzOCVdg3DMAzDB08/s1600/IMG_0164.jpg"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNJoYv-IgJicpscKhQOLiz_zxVnJ1i9Un7jYXH2OFmF2FYXaRonETVmtLkRliJYPCIvIvusObjUJwKlfT7pKhV3n3KmdbQihYA68q45lPWf4VqkZ4dLrX_lNvDYUNqzOCVdg3DMAzDB08/s400/IMG_0164.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5700219722579521970" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>I think it's safe to say that my "baby bump" has officially transformed into a BELLY. Wowza. Even I don't realize how big I've gotten until I see pictures! </div><div><br /></div><div>We are well into our third trimester now! Pregnancy continues to get better and better. Baby girl is so big in there-- we play with her all the time. My favorite is feeling/seeing her little feet knead my side, pushing on them or grabbing them, then having her pull them back... repeat. It's amazing how strong she is getting, too. This week she woke me up at 6 am with some pretty hard kicks and lots of movement, so much that I wasn't able to go back to sleep, so I made myself a cup of pregnancy tea, prayed for her, and enjoyed spending time with her the way things are now. I couldn't help but walk by her nursery and peek in, imagining waking up to grab our little girl in the wee hours. </div><div><br /></div><div>We are getting so ready to meet her! Almost every day Colin says, "I just want to hold her/I just want to play with her already!" It's been so endearing to watch Colin's affection and excitement for her grow. He's so interested in what position she's in and what she's doing. He tells her all about his day (the other day he even told her about pricing shirts! ha!) I can't wait to see him be a Dad. </div><div><br /></div><div>Things are going well. Even the miniscule pains of pregnancy that I've felt so far (back pain, insatiable hunger, constant peeing, packing on those pounds) just wane in comparison to the absolute joy and privilege of being pregnant. I know there may come a time when I am really uncomfortable and ready to not be pregnant anymore, but I have loved every step of growing our little girl! My heart just bursts when I think about meeting her for the first time. </div><div><br /></div><div>We are excited for the first week of February, too-- we are starting our Hypnobabies classes, as well as taking a mini babymoon to Charleston and getting our maternity photos done by the wonderful <a href="http://scruggersmeltedcrayons.blogspot.com/">Sarah Scruggs</a>! </div><div><br /></div><div>Thanks for reading this novel! Hopefully we'll be better and give more updates before we have this little one! 67 days until our due date! </div><div><br /> <div>Grace and Peace,</div></div><div>The Kisers</div>Colin and Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09764522558866505802noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4561051170903071628.post-60111394049357722582012-01-20T21:57:00.008-05:002012-01-20T22:03:25.884-05:00facials, man style.<div>How to have fun while shaving (bathroom modifications for guys):</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOOV276sqFtpYcMa4gBCeeIygzXC2B-LI7WSkI2WEduNg05hBQo9XzTARktUDh629WLrZ5ONmWprH7dXF_NkU7nbixsZoUNp6SOLNSHrBhUtCZzHEwwqQmJOqjurc8jNs5IUMQHmEfibw/s1600/photo+2+%25281%2529.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOOV276sqFtpYcMa4gBCeeIygzXC2B-LI7WSkI2WEduNg05hBQo9XzTARktUDh629WLrZ5ONmWprH7dXF_NkU7nbixsZoUNp6SOLNSHrBhUtCZzHEwwqQmJOqjurc8jNs5IUMQHmEfibw/s400/photo+2+%25281%2529.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5699914748423375954" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">"Hey everyone! I've taken a job as a youth pastor!"</div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG8-rQGpSpODNjw3wjUYLCP-uuHMzwp-tjnRC-p9vitZlMBcRC8tTixQWihUFx9tBo4wlQilLUxlS54Co3vkCjS2bvmSPu5-a0VUjWQEbS4pCZTf6PyD8mcmBCkKPq9S7V94_sdIMPceo/s1600/photo+3+%25281%2529.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG8-rQGpSpODNjw3wjUYLCP-uuHMzwp-tjnRC-p9vitZlMBcRC8tTixQWihUFx9tBo4wlQilLUxlS54Co3vkCjS2bvmSPu5-a0VUjWQEbS4pCZTf6PyD8mcmBCkKPq9S7V94_sdIMPceo/s400/photo+3+%25281%2529.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5699914690840372402" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">"These colors don't run." </div><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH8o2cRFuQofC8Jw0S-rJ17czq_NJbWqD1pqV2QBIaihxUKcbRxdy28MZ7ZytRm_uL4n-7q81LYIor4E-Hy9zoV2rQdXlDzuks3dbTKD3KDqzMeNoHZUJh1XMP4G3JhCrpbYFUc3M1DJg/s1600/photo+4+%25281%2529.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH8o2cRFuQofC8Jw0S-rJ17czq_NJbWqD1pqV2QBIaihxUKcbRxdy28MZ7ZytRm_uL4n-7q81LYIor4E-Hy9zoV2rQdXlDzuks3dbTKD3KDqzMeNoHZUJh1XMP4G3JhCrpbYFUc3M1DJg/s400/photo+4+%25281%2529.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5699914201389864850" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Amber alert. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><span ><u><br /></u></span></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span ><u><br /></u></span></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Love,</div><div style="text-align: left;">The Kisers.</div>Colin and Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09764522558866505802noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4561051170903071628.post-64131439641947532672011-12-21T19:11:00.010-05:002011-12-21T19:29:19.579-05:00Christmas came early! (But not as early as last year).If you'll remember, last year, Colin gave me my Christmas gift <a href="http://www.colinkairachel.blogspot.com/2010/12/christmas-came-early.html">very, very early</a>. This year, with some restraint, we made it until today, December 21st! Colin was home early from work, we turned our Christmas lights on, and exchanged gifts. Perhaps my favorite gift, though, was this coming out of the guest room with presents, saying a lot of "HO HO HO!"s...<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhONRMfdpyITpsY3XXheq-1ocRCENNm69lpbK8cGpchSyKMhDByYYcQYJovDw51xCt7hCo0nJjcyDNQXTBKNvxS7EsfXzvhXwHoLODdcSuhGn-z_Vi6jFm9NHb1851wxeR1TDMutJO4__E/s1600/photo+4.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhONRMfdpyITpsY3XXheq-1ocRCENNm69lpbK8cGpchSyKMhDByYYcQYJovDw51xCt7hCo0nJjcyDNQXTBKNvxS7EsfXzvhXwHoLODdcSuhGn-z_Vi6jFm9NHb1851wxeR1TDMutJO4__E/s400/photo+4.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5688739342709621986" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:78%;">ummm, yeah. How much do I love my husband? </span><br /></div><br />Once I got over the initial shock and crazy amount of laughter over this Santa get-up, we exchanged cards (the best part) and gifts. The highlight for Colin?<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYEIzQx_hsOUU4tn7056DA5Azd3jgVbH5FUDszq6hCWUFraDlvYOM-BazBaip2QTsVfZn2q5qxIzCpzVV9M8tOWqW0x5KKtyeSa1Pu2oLtFol7SdiIboSfi-TJ27Bu73tRhu_RjAVqNUQ/s1600/photo+5.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYEIzQx_hsOUU4tn7056DA5Azd3jgVbH5FUDszq6hCWUFraDlvYOM-BazBaip2QTsVfZn2q5qxIzCpzVV9M8tOWqW0x5KKtyeSa1Pu2oLtFol7SdiIboSfi-TJ27Bu73tRhu_RjAVqNUQ/s400/photo+5.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5688739822454002178" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMexw7YTZneDvRxyAoQ8hOjBTMSCTKb4pqZOzedwaupxdO2LBo7nEAbvwYJvp6nUq3nj1ROI34Mj4nrzTN8o-jiuHYdIOBKSSlTlqu14-qAexO8d1zg_V7kDl3TxwfDByeF5mEC4oaSHo/s1600/photo+3.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMexw7YTZneDvRxyAoQ8hOjBTMSCTKb4pqZOzedwaupxdO2LBo7nEAbvwYJvp6nUq3nj1ROI34Mj4nrzTN8o-jiuHYdIOBKSSlTlqu14-qAexO8d1zg_V7kDl3TxwfDByeF5mEC4oaSHo/s400/photo+3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5688739917506995826" border="0" /></a><br />His new Robin van Persie Jersey :) Colin is such a minimalist, so he's really hard to buy gifts for... I knew this was something he'd want and enjoy. Score.<br /><br />For me?<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUR0CNaR3e_y2gWeUOI5a8Tc92mx9XIC3jAUKz2tu1ODrDjrICV4IS0Ljy1UfZqeBh2QOlGi2rYp6s7Akl7lVLrD3dUTQuuKf0iO-ke2Kxtj_qtNhCIfFyMDuPNa39dGCNd42-pMbbgo4/s1600/photo+5.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUR0CNaR3e_y2gWeUOI5a8Tc92mx9XIC3jAUKz2tu1ODrDjrICV4IS0Ljy1UfZqeBh2QOlGi2rYp6s7Akl7lVLrD3dUTQuuKf0iO-ke2Kxtj_qtNhCIfFyMDuPNa39dGCNd42-pMbbgo4/s400/photo+5.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5688740146630866354" border="0" /></a><br />A diaper bag!! As lame as it sounds, I am super excited about this bag. For one, diaper bags are usually not attractive at all (And attractive as well as functional? Please). Two, this thing will be my purse for years! I had a really hard time even thinking about them, until one fateful night... we were watching the tv show <span style="font-style: italic;">Up All Night</span> (with Will Arnett and Christina Applegate). In one 3 second shot, Will Arnett's character is pictured carrying this amazing diaper bag. It stuck out to me, and I went to Mr. Google immediately! I must have typed the most random things into the search engine, not knowing anything about the bag, but somehow found her.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs7ses_MGRM3ngr9gKlFHLed8r1Z19hjYlR3ZWrJGGBIIUpz6bDPTE6xuihyyUXgJFLSUBdciMUi1E-_yaeLVvFNn5pbieZRrzYwGGYklkVPxekMme_pfadTdq10CjVR-JxrCyVgnYYUE/s1600/petunia"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs7ses_MGRM3ngr9gKlFHLed8r1Z19hjYlR3ZWrJGGBIIUpz6bDPTE6xuihyyUXgJFLSUBdciMUi1E-_yaeLVvFNn5pbieZRrzYwGGYklkVPxekMme_pfadTdq10CjVR-JxrCyVgnYYUE/s400/petunia" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5688741578299081890" border="0" /></a><br />Petunia Pickle Bottom's Springtime in Surrey Boxy Tote. Which just happens to be discontinued. This thing is not only adorable, but BEAST. It's really well made, has tons of pockets and compartments, a changing pad that folds out from the back, the works. It can also be worn as a backpack OR a messenger bag. I am thrilled! Such a geeky mom already.<br /><br />Hope everyone's enjoying themselves in these last days leading up until Christmas! Safe travels, everyone!Colin and Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09764522558866505802noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4561051170903071628.post-5219415818938467002011-12-12T09:07:00.007-05:002011-12-12T09:44:22.904-05:0024ish weeks!Colin and I have started slacking off on taking pictures, so we finally snapped a few after Church yesterday. This is 24.5 weeks!<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuniRFLyVNF0g4Dw7Yrkf0nOhoM8fUGbe5C86-C1ARLhFcdid9m4AYzRhTRqVsLfFKwQgnlPPDcnaTsBcxLU2LC7lnVxTpwNWHu9SvGVlx_ivo8rG11E9ZA59vKgba51qHXOxePGpmvrs/s1600/photo+3.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuniRFLyVNF0g4Dw7Yrkf0nOhoM8fUGbe5C86-C1ARLhFcdid9m4AYzRhTRqVsLfFKwQgnlPPDcnaTsBcxLU2LC7lnVxTpwNWHu9SvGVlx_ivo8rG11E9ZA59vKgba51qHXOxePGpmvrs/s400/photo+3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5685247022266502082" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUqeE_45mFmsQjagIXi1A3ah8PU7JOl_LXAryR_cYDYgdKHQAPHWCd6-Wt_-90KKc9Y_uLv7m3V2wpeXRb8EsGD-bhICaUfydMPl4UmoOXcDKu_fmUba8N7hut8WFrcx1LLAIbd8CYXtg/s1600/photo+5.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUqeE_45mFmsQjagIXi1A3ah8PU7JOl_LXAryR_cYDYgdKHQAPHWCd6-Wt_-90KKc9Y_uLv7m3V2wpeXRb8EsGD-bhICaUfydMPl4UmoOXcDKu_fmUba8N7hut8WFrcx1LLAIbd8CYXtg/s400/photo+5.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5685247127181914402" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy0p3Br_I-lwD7zq2i2QMIYDfxWYMiSJj3hxARnZUGmln3xfPnwzf1_1aM85fchvT4RsL4Pnwxr2JmT8Rc9EcCzjG7ej29UTEVteQL_HR67gOhjzQDCB2a0XFpNL16j05Rxva_k7o99Qo/s1600/photo+4.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy0p3Br_I-lwD7zq2i2QMIYDfxWYMiSJj3hxARnZUGmln3xfPnwzf1_1aM85fchvT4RsL4Pnwxr2JmT8Rc9EcCzjG7ej29UTEVteQL_HR67gOhjzQDCB2a0XFpNL16j05Rxva_k7o99Qo/s400/photo+4.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5685247221419078514" border="0" /></a><br />Updates are slowing down a little, or at least becoming more regular! I am still in that honeymoon phase of pregnancy where I feel great, energized (I have never been the type to be able to pop up out of bed early in the morning, until now), and productive. Although I have definitely started moving slower (and don't like not being able to get up quickly or gracefully), I feel good. Belly button's still in (I have no idea how), itchy skin and stretch marks are at bay for now, no swelling (wedding rings are still on!).<br /><br />Yesterday morning, though, before Church, I woke up to go to the bathroom, looked in the mirror, and I kid you not, my belly was GONE. I looked pre-pregnancy, maybe a tad bloated, but completely not pregnant. It was so freaky, I ran in and showed Colin. How did Little Girl manage that one?<br /><br />This past week was a little scary pregnancy-wise, but all is well! I had some seriously bad Round Ligament Pain on Thursday (stretching, stretching!) and ended up in Urgent Care on Friday night because of blood in my urine (that wasn't scary at all...). It ended up being, thank goodness, just a bad UTI that I had no idea I had-- and trust me, I know what they feel like.<br /><br />This week will be fun and festive, with Colin's company Christmas party, our youth group's Christmas party, and our Church's annual Christmas Ball!Colin and Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09764522558866505802noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4561051170903071628.post-91823630212243712952011-12-06T18:16:00.010-05:002011-12-06T18:45:30.678-05:00Life lately has consisted of:Working again, which I am so happy about! It's an ideal set up for a pregnant woman, complete with people you already know and like (a really cute boy works there, too...), any music I want to listen to, any wardrobe I want to wear, and I get to sit in a comfy chair all day. And make as much money as I did when I was paid to harass people to buy overpriced french skincare/get facials at Dillards. win win win.<br /><br />Lots of these,<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz4JB0W7yun2jXjkpEBHqaOWuXJL7kTL3OPmEvP-lk2ipd-Edbf_in5s6JQSWI3fpblNWpAuNcqbbTF3uf974HQs46jcsQKBaVtD-6AESWpRctT3TdQRlSAbzt7f_8tGiDrlKQgW2DArM/s1600/photo-29.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz4JB0W7yun2jXjkpEBHqaOWuXJL7kTL3OPmEvP-lk2ipd-Edbf_in5s6JQSWI3fpblNWpAuNcqbbTF3uf974HQs46jcsQKBaVtD-6AESWpRctT3TdQRlSAbzt7f_8tGiDrlKQgW2DArM/s400/photo-29.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5683159339509353490" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:78%;">(spinach, flax seed, mixed berries, greek yogurt, and a little bit of banana for sweetness.)</span><br /></div><br />cleaning out baby's nursery, painting her furniture, and buying the little details for her room (nesting has officially kicked in!),<br /><br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/84609279/butterfly-doily"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 380px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUopVd2rd5Up69-8Berq6iuvnd3RgMHD9paAmzgumMlqM0lSJYorhQlkAHEMxqVo7rHTtitoIXfmIECrOlR5Y6v6wGjCWqr0Tyf-SKsrfSazYnf_bso0nPKMHQpK-POrbEiG-JRiQoNBE/s400/nurseryart1" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5683160645312334530" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/81172442/one-feather-5-x-7-print"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 296px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_SCI_djaQU5Kyhj8PQr7KgsflZ7JUFp6F77hRD4rcCx-T0CIV_lJhIJpAYHnfJmPEBtZ5cFovezE_JUAaC_JC0ubCL6wrQy12WJgGKVpftvLJwEH3g_fa4teoNwVuR42EwJJUOtTlhyphenhyphenk/s400/nurseryart2" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5683160703923816210" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/82664317/fabric-organizer-storage-container"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 399px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif6Vrw1BKHaKIWJ2PSMuQ60EV3PWGpSCrstGqpWEySUNctEh7GQqjD8_0RvES7LRQpVzH3Eeg5CKlFKSmIjB0tw6CllwXD0Ml0MYvnMDlMbbAo1lY0cWo5rJUjKZDzG4-2EWgzTA_XpgI/s400/nurserybasket" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5683162296649429538" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/61980834/you-are-my-sunshine-13x19-print"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 309px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1x-MwOGKHBFvxVz2Rb6Q_REcwytRG_P8fsP0IQYY_Od4HPR6H5Zvc5VuWe1ozKeM0N3vNb197tagcCSCo6h_-al-dPpA2Lm3SAcMtM1d9bl_0yA8fI7yIg25FdVqfPosnzUwyQOlJ6RI/s400/nurseryart3" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5683162225575164818" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8X5jjeaayTaTP-nZavHYu2zQrTPgjIRgnnZtfJ0BOxkcVftVccFmc0iKPSmU6lZUR5gOoFH48WRZYNZU5kC_UnbtKTl19pz8WrX7BysXPozYbypDb7ZaTHTLVz2QLie51ptoZJctMjzA/s1600/elephanthamper"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8X5jjeaayTaTP-nZavHYu2zQrTPgjIRgnnZtfJ0BOxkcVftVccFmc0iKPSmU6lZUR5gOoFH48WRZYNZU5kC_UnbtKTl19pz8WrX7BysXPozYbypDb7ZaTHTLVz2QLie51ptoZJctMjzA/s400/elephanthamper" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5683160756559134418" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:78%;">(click pictures to go to etsy shops)</span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">hitting week 24 of pregnancy (tomorrow!), which a lot of women covet ("viability week") as the baby having chance for survival outside of the comfy and hospitable womb,<br /></div><br /></div>and lots of quality time with people (and dog) I love. Just thought I'd find an excuse to post this picture of Abner/a poor bottlenose dolphin stuck in a coke can ring/coffee sleeve.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmeOlztM_0FnTrVtraWdItx0Jvq-LAJPc0UAkePtzKrXcmHDmCXqNPMAnw0cDiHqHFRhG74Kv-1bJ5x4Nd44CIeBzd9t7KxLiiGkUegiTTMiqwnfFRj7rc9IgZMVawaSf-I1fKXtjPSzc/s1600/IMG_0201.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmeOlztM_0FnTrVtraWdItx0Jvq-LAJPc0UAkePtzKrXcmHDmCXqNPMAnw0cDiHqHFRhG74Kv-1bJ5x4Nd44CIeBzd9t7KxLiiGkUegiTTMiqwnfFRj7rc9IgZMVawaSf-I1fKXtjPSzc/s400/IMG_0201.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5683163064812613250" border="0" /></a><br />love to you all!Colin and Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09764522558866505802noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4561051170903071628.post-57926941283519194312011-11-27T13:45:00.010-05:002011-11-27T15:07:29.618-05:0021 & 22 weeks!Time is just blowing by, and it shows no signs of slowing down as we are now in the middle of the holiday season! Here are some pregnancy related things and updates.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj34kI_uNx1P4QMn0GWKjrzP9sUdxV90kdGCRnwf6sjShCsuTDpaxoxtRAMowCfh3Vj2TcuFH0RXjtkKPlu3M5SFbvkZPsiCVWiJ9rEJMnE4HWd_2HlpJDzap8muAs77EZbGj0pgQJ20kU/s1600/photo-49.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj34kI_uNx1P4QMn0GWKjrzP9sUdxV90kdGCRnwf6sjShCsuTDpaxoxtRAMowCfh3Vj2TcuFH0RXjtkKPlu3M5SFbvkZPsiCVWiJ9rEJMnE4HWd_2HlpJDzap8muAs77EZbGj0pgQJ20kU/s400/photo-49.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5679749155491724738" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMBMc6SyDFwc-NOqpN3WRcyH07PcOJIr1sbOTMH2ChRoac3J_ID8Ykm6ifK2Sd_ZXiTLnLT4Sht50QHy5rrLlbC9_0NqIdbHzj41MKVyHQtIgySEguNeqOX-9ea-_wl-yk5eLwtCCwqnI/s1600/IMG_0604.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMBMc6SyDFwc-NOqpN3WRcyH07PcOJIr1sbOTMH2ChRoac3J_ID8Ykm6ifK2Sd_ZXiTLnLT4Sht50QHy5rrLlbC9_0NqIdbHzj41MKVyHQtIgySEguNeqOX-9ea-_wl-yk5eLwtCCwqnI/s400/IMG_0604.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5679749844523542722" border="0" /></a><br />I felt like I was at a standstill as far as belly growth from weeks 18-21, but this week was a big belly growth week apparently! The second photo, taken by my mom, really shows little girl's ever expanding home (This was even before eating our Thanksgiving meal!). There is nothing to complain about. Sickness is gone (after 20 weeks, thank. goodness.), no stretch marks or itchy skin yet, steady weight gain, no heartburn, no swelling, belly button is hanging on for dear life (ha!). These are the glory days of pregnancy, I know, so I'm enjoying it! She's a little wiggle worm and brings her parents (and grandparents! and uncles and aunts!) so much joy already.<br /><br />Also, had my first guys-hitting-on-me-then-realizing-i'm-pregnant-and-freaking-out moment. It was hilarious. Colin got to witness it from about 30 feet away and we died.<br /><br />Ventured out shopping this weekend, also, which I've never done on Thanksgiving weekend, but I must say... GAP is the best thing to happen to pregnant women! I already had a few things from there, but holy smokes. If you're pregnant, you NEED <a href="http://www.gap.com/browse/product.do?pid=872118002&tid=gofr1r">these pants</a> (side note, they look a little awkward in the photo, the foldover is NOT that long and it's more scrunchy). They are so soft, stretchy, and the foldover covers your butt. I love these.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaAu7YjiJvP_XQN-SqHeBQQz-3AyePmWyhtV6LYHAirA8vKfBlatuNm0HzJDnZSd99B0mXC6u9i8M4dijH5AzLB3r7aDoahSFXd-ZPxcoUzp8wtGHHEbm3A0NQjTFU-sKs1k3HrqiVS2o/s1600/gapleggings"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 226px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaAu7YjiJvP_XQN-SqHeBQQz-3AyePmWyhtV6LYHAirA8vKfBlatuNm0HzJDnZSd99B0mXC6u9i8M4dijH5AzLB3r7aDoahSFXd-ZPxcoUzp8wtGHHEbm3A0NQjTFU-sKs1k3HrqiVS2o/s400/gapleggings" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5679764651910646130" border="0" /></a>Also of note at GAP, anything from the Pure Body line, especially <a href="http://www.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=6053&vid=1&pid=848991&scid=848991002">these t-shirts</a>. I have loved everything I have of theirs (camis, tee shirts, long sleeves, a sweater, two kinds of leggings), so if you're pregnant and want some comfortable clothes, go to GAP!Colin and Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09764522558866505802noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4561051170903071628.post-1783741704301018972011-11-21T11:17:00.010-05:002011-11-21T11:44:45.080-05:00Weekend Warriors!I'll start this post off with this song, so you can listen while reading if you so wish. If you haven't heard of Gungor yet, please go have a listen. Gungor's music is worshipful and earnest, and I can't help but resonate with so many of their songs. Such beautiful praise!<br /><br /><iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/OR7VOKQ0xJY" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="320" width="490"></iframe><br /><br />On Saturday night, Colin and I went to a dinner party thrown by some of Colin's sweet work friends. It was such a good time! If you have never played this game, you need to. We don't even know what it's called... It's basically telephone, where each person gets a piece of paper, and they write a funny phrase on the top, then pass it to the next person, who has to draw that phrase, then they fold over the previous sentence so the next person can't see it, then the next person has to write a phrase describing the picture, so on and so forth... It is always a riot, and the best part is seeing what comes out at the end.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3J3-ZXK-ZMO2nR-LsMs6prnMnqrJ6kMkf7AoSqgosqdQlXXCTeZTnPcIHbFE6KwxyQ_WVUmFiEeMoW7ZrBoVSdMvrAPSt_CWp5sNlbYI9K-NnJ9expdtV1h3SRJ4BywfxefCkFXls_6s/s1600/photo-34.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3J3-ZXK-ZMO2nR-LsMs6prnMnqrJ6kMkf7AoSqgosqdQlXXCTeZTnPcIHbFE6KwxyQ_WVUmFiEeMoW7ZrBoVSdMvrAPSt_CWp5sNlbYI9K-NnJ9expdtV1h3SRJ4BywfxefCkFXls_6s/s400/photo-34.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677485020722811218" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:78%;">I'm pretty sure this one started out as "a hamster running on a wheel"...</span><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTByt9nHGu06pAB6fjc1tO0N1698_SOv9PMsY7nub0f0OhCMKRrZrpqIiMuphoz2laxETgpBMcegqAfHm6HvR_1py7RFmBYVkZgzflhyF2i7o1LJSKFqf2Hjt1DxAhtQ5ESqmhwPaHFMg/s1600/photo-36.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTByt9nHGu06pAB6fjc1tO0N1698_SOv9PMsY7nub0f0OhCMKRrZrpqIiMuphoz2laxETgpBMcegqAfHm6HvR_1py7RFmBYVkZgzflhyF2i7o1LJSKFqf2Hjt1DxAhtQ5ESqmhwPaHFMg/s400/photo-36.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677485406155280946" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:78%;">This one, I believe, started out as "an alligator peeing as a UFO lands on its head."</span><br /></div><br />On Sunday we were so excited to participate in our church's first Sunday in their brand new building in downtown Columbia! Not only is it a beautiful space, but having our own place that God graciously provided is amazing. There are actual, awesome youth rooms, too. We were so happy to worship in that space and enjoy a good ol' southern barbeque afterwards! We are grateful for our church.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgohlKeBZ4V51JkAGC2iUwerS9kysuLBmcni6REdGzGVBSvbHgU8FD_PkJ3or74kufbeQr8DSwaKmOxXagZqt-nAeoYTx0RxjvFjGpH0PscGxwhwBCkKLkDlZYwKQfV8i47x7S2J_P-nx4/s1600/COTA"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgohlKeBZ4V51JkAGC2iUwerS9kysuLBmcni6REdGzGVBSvbHgU8FD_PkJ3or74kufbeQr8DSwaKmOxXagZqt-nAeoYTx0RxjvFjGpH0PscGxwhwBCkKLkDlZYwKQfV8i47x7S2J_P-nx4/s400/COTA" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677487812908780642" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS9a1Yk57CI69cDzCsolyq2psLB8JJnY-0DGFgulYcEu6NcRx6rTKmFstJxXJ0xtyznzVxkHMJmYT66ZlUHYE6wMVq8aiNfCArJF2OgBVHYu7UEbKmuVhyPZYWmwAujYQQROP1ymezoGY/s1600/COTA3"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS9a1Yk57CI69cDzCsolyq2psLB8JJnY-0DGFgulYcEu6NcRx6rTKmFstJxXJ0xtyznzVxkHMJmYT66ZlUHYE6wMVq8aiNfCArJF2OgBVHYu7UEbKmuVhyPZYWmwAujYQQROP1ymezoGY/s400/COTA3" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677487923112301666" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2UOQXKB4e2hi6EL0bp4EoHtO1GekBPAX7lQOJnG9pTZnbJSFhzs9rSv8QtjuAYyNxlVOm7eAAl27hcGc-3z9Iq5q2_bikNaWQkW594ZeGphTZoyv2eczWQUrZXIN4Ic6iAuMemHZBqYM/s1600/COTA2"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2UOQXKB4e2hi6EL0bp4EoHtO1GekBPAX7lQOJnG9pTZnbJSFhzs9rSv8QtjuAYyNxlVOm7eAAl27hcGc-3z9Iq5q2_bikNaWQkW594ZeGphTZoyv2eczWQUrZXIN4Ic6iAuMemHZBqYM/s400/COTA2" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5677487868747579442" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:78%;">All photos taken by <a href="http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150461003156754.422519.663441753&type=1">Rod Lewis</a>. Thanks, Rod! </span><br /></div><br />Happy Monday!Colin and Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09764522558866505802noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4561051170903071628.post-59201298053434554432011-11-16T07:13:00.013-05:002011-11-16T14:49:04.142-05:0019 & 20!<div>Here we go, a combination of weeks 19 and 20! I can't believe we are HALF WAY.<br /></div><div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcGaHJG_4Ol2uvfnuj7LpCSlQVNJH6IsCKCtGVdY_LJVXPyJ2muBdGiyhFjmw6WWq9oLYTO9beBTC-D74tTxAJl5coHp7DTHyMc_C_YuIuRyAgDpKoDUB5TxNM1ovbXvCjjluw56tUz7U/s1600/IMG_1745.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcGaHJG_4Ol2uvfnuj7LpCSlQVNJH6IsCKCtGVdY_LJVXPyJ2muBdGiyhFjmw6WWq9oLYTO9beBTC-D74tTxAJl5coHp7DTHyMc_C_YuIuRyAgDpKoDUB5TxNM1ovbXvCjjluw56tUz7U/s400/IMG_1745.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675681709282853010" border="0" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:78%;">so you can see our priorities in life, on the cabinet... hairspray and swedish coffee (?) coulda moved that... :)</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><br /></span></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRGYE3kRKAgngbuOUbRjr-SjLnda8k3uGoBbhy44OV-pdlesd0IthxhM-1YsYF_4zP827guhs_bRBiFLFgPJDzyvG4qTlZe1doFb_tTFeNfpPon70nMbICYNU32dTWeWlJi-i7qQOQRu8/s1600/IMG_1752.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRGYE3kRKAgngbuOUbRjr-SjLnda8k3uGoBbhy44OV-pdlesd0IthxhM-1YsYF_4zP827guhs_bRBiFLFgPJDzyvG4qTlZe1doFb_tTFeNfpPon70nMbICYNU32dTWeWlJi-i7qQOQRu8/s400/IMG_1752.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5675681329529933954" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div>1. Colin was able to feel Little Girl move for the first time about a week ago, at 19 weeks! It was definitely one of the most precious moments, seeing his face and how intently he waited for each little kick of hers. He is smitten and fascinated.<br /><br />2. On that note, her kicks are getting SO STRONG! She's not under my ribs yet, so things aren't painful or very uncomfortable, but they can definitely be surprising at times. Only a few weeks ago were they tiny little thumps, now I feel them a lot of the day and it feels like she's doing somersalts in there! When she's especially active I can actually see my tummy moving from the outside a little bit. This is one of the most beautiful parts of pregnancy.<br /><br />3. The harsh reality kicks in: I'm pretty sure the dryer has started shrinking my pre-pregnancy jeans (that jerk!). I digress. Let's be honest. Pregnancy weight gain has kicked in, and I don't know how much longer I'll be able to wear my old jeans, even with my trusty <a href="http://bematernity.com/beband.html">Beband</a>. There is no more natural thing than weight gain in pregnancy (between 25-35 lbs. is considered "ideal"), and I'm embracing it, don't get me wrong, but Colin grunted when he was being playful and picked me up the other day. GRUNTED.... as in he was straining. hahahaha.<br /><br />4. And lastly, we signed up for Hypnobabies birthing classes yesterday! They start in February. We are trying to be very intentional with the way we go about the birth of our daughter, and want to be as informed and prepared as possible. I can write another post entirely on why we chose Hypnobabies, why we chose a Birthing Center over the Hospital, and why we want a medication-free birth, if people are at all interested.<br /></div><div><br /></div>Colin and Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09764522558866505802noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4561051170903071628.post-20447896785952154132011-11-10T18:01:00.004-05:002011-11-10T18:05:10.592-05:00Oh, boy.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYVNwE-jTBiHzxFZC55Q6ODbS7XW08o3IlgJJfWMa2YCutmEogIb3MxktQLYm3z8JEEASaWx1uedv8asLmVLhlymj701w_7s4s3hVZTqE_TwDLs3MXkXIyKC0rusOg3CUjLAwdaB4P81k/s1600/Colin+little005.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 281px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYVNwE-jTBiHzxFZC55Q6ODbS7XW08o3IlgJJfWMa2YCutmEogIb3MxktQLYm3z8JEEASaWx1uedv8asLmVLhlymj701w_7s4s3hVZTqE_TwDLs3MXkXIyKC0rusOg3CUjLAwdaB4P81k/s400/Colin+little005.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5673506954722400754" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidhqUq9er7jug4Ua_BiE2wSz4jT2U3lgUJDtSq3NN-w-ifEgpsop9almYoOPS2VTDmex6RqZpjK8Oru_5PIFD1UiEwbJ1SbJPTEQOOKNvi4OoE4lL2OVu4wGDtRmt5BHlYVQf4zBomuAM/s1600/Colin+little006.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 344px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidhqUq9er7jug4Ua_BiE2wSz4jT2U3lgUJDtSq3NN-w-ifEgpsop9almYoOPS2VTDmex6RqZpjK8Oru_5PIFD1UiEwbJ1SbJPTEQOOKNvi4OoE4lL2OVu4wGDtRmt5BHlYVQf4zBomuAM/s400/Colin+little006.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5673506427722068786" border="0" /></a><br />The reason I really, really meant it when I said I had no preference in the gender of our Little One, boy or girl.. because, genetically, one of these could potentially have popped out.Colin and Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09764522558866505802noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4561051170903071628.post-82665536434525102452011-11-07T19:10:00.007-05:002011-11-07T19:35:34.067-05:00Baby Steps to the Nursery...It's November! I can't even believe it. Time is absolutely flying.<br /><br />Found this awesome video on <a href="http://blogs.babble.com/">babble</a>, and it definitely inspired me! I love wearing scarves, and usually settle for the classic loose drape. Here are 25 wonderful ways to wear your scarf (and just the cutest video!)<br /><br /><iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/5LYAEz777AU" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="290" width="500"></iframe><br /><br />We have officially begun putting together (and I say that as loosely as possible) Little Girl's nursery! I have been gathering ideas for a while now, but we now have a crib on the way as well as some beautiful crib bedding. We also found a dresser/changing table at the thrift store this weekend, so once I finish painting it I'll post about that as well!<br /><br />We opted for the simple and classic look of a white Jenny Lind-style crib. If you look at nurseries on Apartmenttherapy or Pinterest, you will see this crib everywhere. It's simple and affordable!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIGdFlpge4eAZwOhx3HOHfHFUbKCR3pdixBfWwR7-d2bXrwOcq8nHHPA6Js4DjkgTc0oQyA7pE28zKt1gdJCJVbgrj31ryziPM_4SSwxGE7lRwlOHDIN1MbPRUk5hzVUCv0iGZfTuXzfA/s1600/jennylind1"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIGdFlpge4eAZwOhx3HOHfHFUbKCR3pdixBfWwR7-d2bXrwOcq8nHHPA6Js4DjkgTc0oQyA7pE28zKt1gdJCJVbgrj31ryziPM_4SSwxGE7lRwlOHDIN1MbPRUk5hzVUCv0iGZfTuXzfA/s400/jennylind1" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5672413499838717122" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilBHTUarKIv-2VMOY2EOqdncp5q9ePX1bJP1H_3mmWOE6WPKTFdM5Ks20Pr-vJ7OhLR3cMqsS-u7QLgIg7cZduswG7TuXr41FAdTS5zjLj2nok7ATweqfiC-IlvxUF6Ons1s7498zhiLs/s1600/jennylind2"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 260px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilBHTUarKIv-2VMOY2EOqdncp5q9ePX1bJP1H_3mmWOE6WPKTFdM5Ks20Pr-vJ7OhLR3cMqsS-u7QLgIg7cZduswG7TuXr41FAdTS5zjLj2nok7ATweqfiC-IlvxUF6Ons1s7498zhiLs/s400/jennylind2" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5672413555434586770" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;">(Both images found via <a href="http://apartmenttheraphy.com/">apartmenttherapy</a>)</span><br /></div><br />For bedding we decided to go with this <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/babydarling?ref=seller_info">babydarling</a> pink and mustard crib set (she also has an adorable gray and yellow set that we considered if we were having a little boy!). I always thought I would be one of those moms who didn't do any form of pink for her little girl (I've never been much of a fan of pink), but I absolutely love the way small pink accents complement my favorite color of all, mustard. If you know me at all, you probably knew mustard was going to make an appearance <span style="font-style: italic;">somewhere</span> in this room ;)<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAJmHEEk8qDtKLqs2QxYf1SCmyDNcb48KuXtHQCGjlOPMNyGqZiivGTes62NMIQv6RbNKq4i2MkdZUQciX3ErneFkLVL0QhY9iIAe7DEg2YDEVWLGSEU_ubo9kaitxeZrKbVwNpg88vBQ/s1600/babydarlingbedding"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAJmHEEk8qDtKLqs2QxYf1SCmyDNcb48KuXtHQCGjlOPMNyGqZiivGTes62NMIQv6RbNKq4i2MkdZUQciX3ErneFkLVL0QhY9iIAe7DEg2YDEVWLGSEU_ubo9kaitxeZrKbVwNpg88vBQ/s400/babydarlingbedding" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5672414653603121794" border="0" /></a><br />All this to say, my etsy favorites list grows and grows by the day (I've said it before and I'll say it again, that website is DANGEROUS), and I am so looking forward to putting together Little Girl's room bit by bit.<br /><br />Happy Monday!Colin and Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09764522558866505802noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4561051170903071628.post-9153185053203812022011-11-04T11:38:00.008-04:002011-11-04T12:01:07.433-04:00Our Daughter.It trips Colin and I out to say that-- it's one thing to say "we're having a girl!" or "she" or numerous other ways of saying that our little baby is a girl. But when we hear each other, or other people, say "your/our daughter"... it stops my heart. I don't know if it's because it reminds me that this beautiful gift is entrusted to us for life, or because it reminds me that I'm going to be a parent, rather than a woman growing a baby... whatever the reason, we are in awe.<br /><br />We got to have an hour long ultrasound, our first and only one, since our birthing center doesn't do them. Beforehand I tried to fill my bladder up reallllll full and chugged some orange juice to get soon-to-be-not-so Mysterious Kiser moving. The very first time we saw our little girl in her entirety, she was snuggled against the placenta, like a pillow, and she had her hand to her mouth. Talk about melting our hearts. We were shown all of her little intricacies, including her "pretty little heart", as the tech kept calling it, with all four chambers pumping away, her sweet little limbs, spine, kidneys, brain. It was absolutely wild to see her kicking and twisting away in there!<br /><br />I will say, though, I am even more convinced, having seen our baby react to it first hand, that ultrasounds are disruptive and unpleasant for the little ones. I've heard it before (apparently the sound waves are disruptive), but even the tech commented at how far away Little Girl was trying to get from the machine. She went way down low to my pelvic area for the last parts of the ultrasound. Maybe she felt indignant at the lack of privacy and everyone trying to get some good looks at her privates (she had her cord in the way as well as, at times, both of her hands and feet. ha! what modesty!)<br /><br />The whole pregnancy I had the feeling I was growing a little girl. Most people guessed "girl" for us. I know that people don't like to hear this when they ask what we wanted, but we truly did just want to have a healthy baby, though I have secretly relished the idea of Colin being a father to a little girl. He has the perfect patient and jovial temperament, and I know this little one is going to be the apple of his eye (and be twisted all around her little finger!)<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizDbLGHwNBZce4JYI0iCZ9ojTwclmPzS955l3xuBMdvtIAqCul4YC9omwFOdDZr-aLQi7mOCZACaX7w8uDE9a0fQd-yXR8RfHimGjKPLkU-5PHUaWMqjl30XMA238w2Kk-38pF86O-49o/s1600/IM000021.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizDbLGHwNBZce4JYI0iCZ9ojTwclmPzS955l3xuBMdvtIAqCul4YC9omwFOdDZr-aLQi7mOCZACaX7w8uDE9a0fQd-yXR8RfHimGjKPLkU-5PHUaWMqjl30XMA238w2Kk-38pF86O-49o/s400/IM000021.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5671166130185636114" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;">This picture gets me. Look at her delicate little lips and chin! And that little nose! I find myself looking at this picture too many times a day.<br /></span><div style="text-align: left;"><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd72Q8SPrLH_y0XLJcPHG6taCL19I2kRMCWCrEuiPDIj_JkdjE1TO2sbFFXFXwv1YKvCNM9OFt2EO2o97TA-YFUyIVP2wo_kuPlxusTPO5oW08Rxwp9D9qJPsb_95DH9e8dNEQ7xIevpI/s1600/IM000025.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd72Q8SPrLH_y0XLJcPHG6taCL19I2kRMCWCrEuiPDIj_JkdjE1TO2sbFFXFXwv1YKvCNM9OFt2EO2o97TA-YFUyIVP2wo_kuPlxusTPO5oW08Rxwp9D9qJPsb_95DH9e8dNEQ7xIevpI/s400/IM000025.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5671166457181174946" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;">And, just because we think it's the most amazing thing ever... her spine! We could see all the little bones flexing as she wiggled and moved.</span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9HNjz_RnzSt-QUNNYSyhc4JEqfBZ2aceEKxtt27VLZp69786gpZBRLimGDgRc8Nb6AhfSHe3UgTY0TZ8Ao99Q7ijopAKOIa9JdUyakVDOR_FagYG0rLSNr03fI4L0EdL4kn3caMcX9A8/s1600/IM000052.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9HNjz_RnzSt-QUNNYSyhc4JEqfBZ2aceEKxtt27VLZp69786gpZBRLimGDgRc8Nb6AhfSHe3UgTY0TZ8Ao99Q7ijopAKOIa9JdUyakVDOR_FagYG0rLSNr03fI4L0EdL4kn3caMcX9A8/s400/IM000052.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5671166877953891442" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU3BvxN3y2uDQrREmSEmqFIdmamVWcREGAbskhZz_k95VcsYkASviNSU-YLs66yHt7JiE3iaAZpHjaPQXcVo7pG0u-8CMANY4UoMXO-OTvxOqCSMSEMiaKElj0qVT5xAj18HAioH-T728/s1600/IM000055.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU3BvxN3y2uDQrREmSEmqFIdmamVWcREGAbskhZz_k95VcsYkASviNSU-YLs66yHt7JiE3iaAZpHjaPQXcVo7pG0u-8CMANY4UoMXO-OTvxOqCSMSEMiaKElj0qVT5xAj18HAioH-T728/s400/IM000055.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5671166978951398530" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;">Little hand and little arms. </span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">We can't say it enough... the joy of having others share in our excitement overwhelms us. Your words are taken to heart and are so meaningful! We love getting to share our experience with you guys. Thanks for following Little Girl's journey!<br /></div></div></div></div></div>Colin and Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09764522558866505802noreply@blogger.com6