Weekly Update

How far along? 36 weeks and 4 days

How big is baby? 17.2-18.7 inches and 4.2-5.8 lbs. Even though she technically hasn't gotten out of that range yet, this week it is getting a little more difficult to eat and breathe.

Weight gain? As of my appointment yesterday it was about 27 pounds so far. If I am remembering correctly at my first appointment I was told I should gain between 25-35 pounds so I think I am doing pretty good on that end. The doctor said all my numbers including weight looked good yesterday.

Maternity clothes? I am still refusing to buy new clothes with 3 1/2 weeks to go. My skirts have been working for school. I tried wearing a pair of my pre-pregnancy pants with a rubber band today...bad idea lol! I felt like they were going to fall off all day long! Thankfully I wore a shirt that goes WAY down past my bottom so all anyone noticed was me pulling on my pants all day.

Movement? It's been about the same. She has long periods of what I can only assume is sleep time where she is quiet in there and then I'll eat or drink something or take a bath and she'll dance a little. I can tell she's running out of room in there because the movements aren't as big as they had been. She is still moving around just fine but it's not like she's flipping over as much. I will mainly notice her legs/knees/feet poking out at me.

Cravings? Whatever someone suggests sweets wise. My co-teacher mentioned Menchie's the other day at a meeting and man did it sound good. By the time it was the end of the day however I had forgotten about it so I wouldn't really consider that a true craving. It was the same kind of thing at Walmart yesterday. I saw some candy on sale and bought it because it looked good. It's a type of candy I like so it is good but it's not like I HAVE to have it when I get home from school each day.

What I miss? Being able to sleep through the night without having to get up and pee every 2 or so hours. From the time I was probably about 6 or 7 I have been able to sleep the whole night through without having to get up and go (unless there was some weird circumstance like I was sick etc.). Now however it's every 2-3 hours every night that I am up to go. I'm very thankful I am mostly able to get right back to sleep but its still annoying having to try to roll out of bed!

What I am looking forward to? This is sort of something I am looking forward to and not at the same time. I found out today my teammates want to have a shower at school for me. This is so sweet! I am new to the 2nd grade team this year so I never in a million years expected that. I am so touched they would think to do that. But, I am a little worried about opening stuff in front of people. It was strange enough at first at the other showers we had and those were people I knew fairly well. I know my coworkers but not as well as I know our friends and family at the other showers.

Oh! And this! When I went to the doctor he did my first internal exam. I found out I am already 2 cm dilated and 60% effaced! He thinks she'll come sooner rather than later and technically she is full term so she really could come any time. I just haven't told my co-teacher this fact yet as when we went to see administration together about something yesterday and they were talking about all the other teachers who went into labor at school she got really nervous thinking about the kiddos we have this year!

Weekly Update

How far along? 35 weeks

How big is baby? 17.2-18.7 inches and 4.2-5.8 pounds! That much be why my belly feels heavier and heavier and getting out of bed is proving to be more and more difficult!!

Total weight gain? As of yesterday, according to the Publix scale, I've gained 24 pounds. I can tell the difference in the way my shorts fit (even my maternity ones) and the fact that my rings are snug enough to the point where I won't risk wearing them on my fingers anymore because I fear getting them stuck!

Maternity clothes? I refuse to buy anything at this point. Truthfully, she could come at any point so why run out and buy something for 5 weeks? It just doesn't make sense to me. 

Stretch marks? None. I' have been very fortunate to not have any thus far in pregnancy. I'm hoping because it's so late in the game I won't get any at all. 

Movement? She is still rolling and making waves in there. It also sometimes feels like she is shivering which is an interesting feeling for sure!

Cravings? Still nothing really. 

What I miss? Nothing really. Sleeping on my stomach if I had to pick one thing. 

What I am looking forward to? Meeting her of course and not being pregnant any more. I am trying my best to enjoy every minute of it because I am sure when she is here I will be lamenting the time I was pregnant but last night I was just done. I was so hot and she just felt so heavy and every movement was proving difficult that I was just done. It's gotten better today by far so I am hoping that it stays this way until she comes. 

Oh and this! School starts tomorrow with the kiddos. I have two different classes and I am nervous after meeting the kids I did on Friday. I think I had about two-thirds of my homeroom come to open house and most of the kids from my partner teacher's homeroom at least came and introduced themselves as well so I met most of my kiddos. However, after seeing some of them and talking to their parents I am anxious. I have to keep in mind that God hand picked this kids to be in my class for a reason. 

Weekly Update

I know, I know, I'm a few weeks behind. Last week I was just so exhausted there was no way I could even muster the energy to write my update!

How far along? 34 weeks!!!

How big is baby? Zoey is 4.2-5.8 lbs. and 17.2-18.7 inches. Wow, it's hard to believe that she has gotten so big!!

Total weight gain? We still don't own a scale but I believe at the last doctor's appointment it was around 24 lbs. I go back to the doctor on Wednesday so we will see what the gain is then.

Maternity clothes? Nothing new. I just don't see the point this late in the game of getting anything new (other than the nursing tanks I still need to pick up). The 3 skirts I own with elastic waist bands plus the dress from Cambodia and the maternity jeans will work for school until after Zoey comes then I will work toward getting back into some of my old clothes eventually.

Stretch marks? None although Tyler has noticed I am getting that tell-tale dark line down the middle of my belly. Each time he sees my belly he comments on it!

Sleep? It really hasn't been too bad lately. At night it seems like I go through a period of extreme exhaustion and then hit a point where I'm still tired but when I go to lay down I stay awake for an hour or more. Thankfully I've been able to still get 6-7 hours of sleep each night. With school starting again I know this will all be changing and my body will have to adjust to going to bed earlier and getting up earlier. Thankfully I have the coffee pot set to warm the water prior to the time I have to leave the house so I will get that extra boost to wake me up in the morning.

Movement? It is certainly getting stronger although from what I've read online it's not nearly as strong as what some people are dealing with. I haven't had any pain from her kicks and rolls yet.

Cravings? Nothing that I can think of. I dreamt that I had a strong craving for something (I never did figure out what it was) and couldn't get it so I cried over it. But, as far as memory serves, it was only a dream.

What I miss? Things have been pretty good lately. There isn't much that I miss.

What I am looking forward to? Meeting her in about 6 weeks or so!

Oh and this! It will be interesting to see how I adjust to going back to school again after being off for so long.

Weekly Update

How far along? 32 weeks. Officially two months from the estimated due date! We hit two calendar months earlier this week. Wow!!

How big is baby? The size of a squash. 2.5-3.8 lbs. and 15.2-16.7 inches!

Total weight gain? Don't own a scale so I don't know. I'm guessing 20+ lbs. at this point but I don't know for sure.

Maternity clothes? Same old same old. Trying to make sure I have enough to get me through a week at school since I go back in two weeks!

Stretch marks? None.

Sleep? I've been sleeping well but still been feelings worn out big time. I went to bed around 1 this morning and slept till 8. Then I drove to church and in the middle of the service I felt like I could have fallen asleep right there in the chair. I went to Walmart and stopped by the bank and now am home and feel so ready for a nap. I'm hoping this is only because I wasn't doing anything at first when I got up; otherwise this is going to be a VERY difficult 6 weeks back to school!

Movement? Movement has seemed to change this week from the kicks and pokes to move wave-like movements. I'm thinking it's her rolling over and repositioning herself. It's very entertaining to watch her do that!

Cravings? Nothing really.

What I miss? Having my energy.

What I am looking forward to? Getting my energy back.

Oh and this! My second baby shower was yesterday! Oh my goodness! Between my parents and my friends we were so blessed! I don't think there is anything that we will need right away for Zoey! It was so awesome!

Weekly Update

How far along? 31 weeks

How big is baby? About the size of a pineapple. 15.2-16.7 inches and about 2.5-3.8 lbs.!! Wow how much she has grown since January!

Total weight gain? I would guess somewhere around 20 lbs. so far but I don't know for sure.

Maternity clothes? At some point this week I need to look at a couple of nursing tank tops or sleep bras to use when Zoey first gets here and if I find a good deal on some dress pants or a top or two I might pick those up for school as well.

Stretch marks? Still none that I am aware of.

Sleep? Sleep hasn't been too bad lately. I have been sleeping fairly well and getting up and staying up almost every day.

Movement? She is still moving around like crazy. And he little hiccups are so sweet! It's so wonderful to get to see her move and to feel her moving around to let us know she is ok.

Cravings? My cravings have been varying lately. For about a three day period all I would crave is Publix subs but then I'm not sure if my body just got tired of them or what but the thought of eating one now almost turns my stomach. There were also a few days where I would be hungry and eat but then after I ate my stomach would be upset. And then there were the times, like last night, where nothing sounded good and I was only eating because I know Zoey needs the nutrition.

What I miss? I don't think there is anything particular that I've missed in this week.

What I am looking forward to? Meeting her in 9 weeks! Ahh!! I want her to stay put as long as possible and to be as healthy as possible but I am getting so excited to meet her!!

Oh and this! My second baby shower is this weekend! I can't wait to celebrate Zoey's coming with our friends and family!

Weekly Update, The Weekend and George Zimmerman

How far along? 30 Weeks

How big is baby? The size of a cucumber. 15.2-16.7 inches and 2.5-3.8 lbs. I would assume closer to 2.5 because at both of my recent doctor appointments I've been measuring a week behind; nothing to be concerned about.

Total weight gain? 18 lbs so far.

Maternity clothes? Nothing new although I did discover this weekend that I am at the point of needing a bathing suit.

Stretch marks? I haven't seen any real ones yet but when we were at the beach I did notice what might be the beginnings of some. I think they were more pronounced because the water was so cold it make everything stand out more.

Sleep? I've been sleeping A LOT lately. I've gotten into the VERY bad habit of getting up with Tyler, staying up for about an hour, and then going back to bed until about 11 or 12. The crazy thing is I am still able to sleep fairly easily at night too! I have to start getting into the routine again of getting up and doing something since I will be going back to school in 3-4 weeks.

Movement? This morning after breakfast we were laying around and I could see Zoey moving my belly all around. I think she was doing the cha-cha slide in there! It was so funny. The only thing I wish is that I could tell the difference between her feet and arms and hands and head. Don't get me wrong I LOVE feeling and seeing her move I'm just curious as to what exactly she is poking me with in there!

Cravings? Sweets. Chocolate specifically. M&M's and Oreos and everything like that. Although I will say there was a 24 hour period last week where NOTHING sounded good. Like, at all. All I was able to force down was half a hamburger and some fries.

What I miss? I miss not being so worn out all the time. Or more specifically I miss having more than a few hours of energy at a time. I also miss not having this crazy restless leg syndrome stuff. I'm tired of always feeling like I have to be moving my legs. I wish my muscles would just go back to normal.

What am I looking forward to? I am looking forward to getting back in the routine of school. I know that I will be exhausted by the end of the day but I think having the routine will help with some of it. By not being able to go back to sleep I think I won't feel as sleepy.

Oh! And this! Tyler surprised me this weekend by coming home for work Saturday and taking us to Melbourne Beach for the night! We stayed at a hotel right on the beach and went to a restaurant called CHart House where we had an awesome steak dinner. Then this morning we got up and watched the sun rise and had a nice breakfast before heading back home. It was so nice to get away just the two of us (not that our family consists of any more than that just yet!) and to have some quality time together.

Now, as far as the George Zimmerman trail and verdict goes here are my thoughts. I think that it is a horrible, terrible thing that a 17 year old boy died. That is just tragic and there should be some justice for him. However I have two things to say as far as the trail goes. 1) We will NEVER know what really happened that night. Even if Trayvon hadn't died, his view on what happened and George Zimmerman's view could have been totally different. There are always three sides to every story: the two participants and the truth. 2) I did not watch the whole trial by any means. I only watched parts here and there but the parts I did watch I did not feel the state proved their case beyond a reasonable doubt. They did not have the evidence to prove the charges they were asking for.

Lukewarm Christianity

So at Wednesday night bible study we've been going through the book Crazy Love by Francis Chan. Wow what a fantastic book! Chapter 4 was all about being a lukewarm Christian. I wanted to take a chance and share the list from the book.

"-Lukewarm people attend church fairly regularly. It is what is expected of them, what they believe "good Christians" do, so they go.
Isaiah 29:13
-Lukewarm people give money to charity and to the church...as long as it doesn't impinge on their standard of living. If they have a little extra and it is easy and safe to give, they do so. After all, God loves a cheerful giver right?
1 Chronicles 21:24; Luke 21:1-4
-Lukewarm people tend to choose what is popular over what is right when they are in conflict. They desire to fit in both at church and outside of church; they care more about what people think of their actions (like church attendance and giving) than what God thinks of their hearts and lives.
Luke 6:26; Revelation 3:1; Matthew 23:5-7
-Lukewarm people don't really want to be saved from their sin; they want only to be saved from the penalty of their sin. They don't genuinely hate sin and aren't truly sorry for it; they're merely sorry because God is going to punish them. Lukewarm people don't really believe that this new life Jesus offers is better than the old sinful one.
John 10:10; Romans 6:1-2
-Lukewarm people are moved by stories about people who do radical things for Christ, yet they do not act. They assume such acton is for "extreme" Christians, not average ones. Lukewarm people call "radical" what Jesus expected of all His followers.
James 1:22; James 4:17; Matthew 21:28-31
-Lukewarm people rarely share their faith with their neighbors, coworkers, or friends. They do not want to be rejected nor do they want to make people uncomfortable by talking about private issues like religion.
Matthew 1-:32-33
-Lukewarm people gauge their morality or "goodness" by comparing themselves to the secular world. They feel satisfied that while they aren't as hard-core for Jesus as so-and-so, they are nowhere as horrible as the guy down the street.
Luke 18:111-12
-Lukewarm people say they love Jesus, and He is, indeed a part of their lives. But only a part. They give Him a section of their time, their money, and their thoughts, but He isn't allowed to control their lives.
Luke 9:57-62
-Lukewarm people love God, but they do not love Him with all their heart, soul and strength. They would be quick to assure you that they try to love God that much, but that sort of total devotion isn't really possible for the average person; it's only for pastors and missionaries and radicals.
Matthew 22:37-38
-Lukewarm people love others but do not seek to love others as much as they love themselves. Their love of others is typically focused on those who love them in return, like family, friends, and other people they know and connect with. There is little love left over for those who cannot love them back, much less for those who intentionally slight them, whose kids are better athletes than theirs, or with whom conversations are awkward or uncomfortable. Their love is highly conditional and very selective, and generally comes with strings attached.
Matthew 5:43-47; Luke 14:12-14
-Lukewarm people will serve God and others, but their are limits to how far they will go or how much time, money, and energy they are willing to give.
Luke: 21-25
-Lukewarm people think about life on earth much more often than eternity in heaven. Daily life is mostly focused on today's to-do list, this week's schedule, and next month's vacation. Rarely, if ever, do they intently consider the life to come. Regarding this, C.S. Lewis writes, "If you read history you will find that the Christians who did most for the present world were precisely those who thought most of the next. It is since Christians have largely ceased to think of the other world that they have become so ineffective in this."

Philippians 3:18-20; Colossians 3:2

-Lukewarm people are thankful for their luxuries and comforts, and rely consider trying to give as much as possible to the poor. They are quick to point out, "Jesus never said money is the root of all evil, only that the love of money is." Untold numbers of lukewarm people feel "called" to minister to the rich; very few feel "called" to minister to the poor.

Matthew 25:34, 40; Isaiah 58:6-7

-Lukewarm people do whatever necessary to keep themselves from feeling too guilty. They want to do the bare minimum, to be "good enough" without it requiring too much of them.

1 Chronicles 29:14; Matthew 13:44-46

-Lukewarm people are continually concerned with playing it safe; they are slaves tot he god of control. This focus on safe living keeps them from sacrificing and risking for God.

1 Timothy 6:17-18; Matthew 10:28

-Lukewarm people feel secure because they attend church, made a profession of faith at age twelve, were baptized, come from a Christian family, vote Republican, or live in America. Just as the prophets in the Old Testament warned Israel that they were not safe just because they lived in the land of Israel, so we are not safe just because we wear the label Christian or because some people persist in calling us a "Christian nation."

Matthew 7:21; Amos 6:1

-Lukewarm people do not live by faith; their lives are structured so they never have to. They don't have to trust God if something unexpected happens-they have their savings account. They don't need God to help them-they have their retirement plan in place. They don't genuinely seek out what life God would have them live-they have life figured and mapped out. They don't depend on God on a daily basis-their refrigerators are full and, for the most part, they are in good health. The truth is, their lives wouldn't look much different if they suddenly stopped believing in God. 

Luke 12:16-21; Hebrews 11

-Lukewarm people probably drink and swear less than average, but besides that, they really aren't very different from your typical unbeliever. They equate their partially sanitized life with holiness but they couldn't be more wrong.

Matthew 23:25-28"

There are so many that hit me close to home; all of them in one way or another if I am being honest. At some point in my life (even now) quite a few of these, if not all of them apply to me. 

And I don't want to be lukewarm. I want to have a passion for Christ. I want to be so in love with Him that is shows through me; I want to be different from those in the world. I want to have the courage to stand up for what I believe in and to not be afraid to share the love of Christ with others. I want to love the unlovable and to reach out to the hurting. I really do want to be the hands and feet of Christ and to not just be another warm body taking up space in a sanctuary on a Sunday morning. 

I hope and pray that I can stop being lukewarm and can really reach those around me for Christ no matter the situation or what it may seem like it will cost. Will you join me?

Weekly Update

How far along? 29 weeks

How big is baby? 15.2-16.7 inches and 2.5-3.8 lbs.!

Total weight gain?  16 lbs. as of last check.

Maternity clothes? Nothing new.

Stretch marks? Still none which I'm certainly not complaining about!

Sleep? It's been going ok. The biggest complaint I have is that if hubby comes to bed after I do I am such a light sleeper I typically get woken up and then have a little trouble getting back to sleep. Friday night was one of those nights.

Movement? She is certainly moving a lot. She loves when I drink Hi-C or eat Oreos. Then she really starts moving. I guess the music at church this morning was a little louder than she was used to because as soon as it started she got the hiccups like it had startled her.

Cravings? Nothing really specific. Food. I can't seem to get enough food.

What I miss? Sleeping on my stomach.

What I am looking forward to? Her. Meeting her and seeing her and getting to hold her and snuggle her. I am so excited to see her and meet her!! Of course I want her to stay in as long as possible so that she is as healthy as possible but, I am excited none the less.

2 Peter 2:1-9

All quotes come from "She Reads Truth" on YouVersion.

"We might see the words "false teacher" and turn our minds off. Surely we wouldn't fall prey and they are so far removed from us anyway, right? But are they? And are our hearts tender enough and humble enough to stay guarded, with our eyes on the Lord so we don't get trampled in their wake? And how does this picture of God's justice move us TODAY? Are we encouraged? Are we stirred? Are we cold and numb to the fact of His Holiness?"

How many of us do this? We think that we are stronger than what we see in the world. We think that we don't have to check what we hear from friends, family, and Christian leaders against what the Word of God says. We think we don't need to attend a Bible believing church on a weekly basis to get fed and to help us grow spiritually (please don't misunderstand, I know that not everyone can go every week for one reason or another and I also understand that there are circumstances that may prevent us from going. I am not talking about the legitimate reasons we cannot or do not go but the ones we use as excuses to not go); I know this is a BIG one for me. 

I also notice a change in me when I don't do these things. A change in my attitude when I don't pay attention to what I let in my mind through movies, books, music and T.V. I notice a change in my relationships when I try to solve all my problems on my own verses taking them to God and waiting for His direction. I notice a change in my lifestyle when I don't go to church or when I allow myself to miss for long periods of time due to silly excuses. 

Day Two: 2 Peter study

Ok, so I know I am a little behind. It has been a crazy week. Tuesday hubby was sick and unable to go to work so i had to drive his work truck in so it could be looked at by a mechanic then had to ride with his boss to go pick it back up (all on 4 hours of sleep) and then yesterday I had to go take my Glucose Tolerance Test for baby Zoey. When I got back I taped off her room to finish painting then mom and I went to lunch.

Here are a few quotes from the devotional from day two that really struck me:
For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith. (1 Peter 1:5, NIV)Add goodness.(v. 5) Do what you know to be right.Add knowledge. (v. 5) Study the word. Pray without ceasing.Add self-control. (v. 6) Control your will and operate in the Spirit.Add perseverance. (v. 6) See His tasks through, even when it's hard.Add godliness. (v. 6) Let others know to Whom you belong in your conduct.Add mutual affection and love. (v. 7) Give your time, talents and lives for others.

Why is it so easy for us to forget to do this? Why is it so simple to get caught up in the things of this world rather than to live like we are commanded to live? 

We found out yesterday that my parents bought a new (to them) car and are going to sell us their old one for a very, very discounted price. No sooner had I found out that wonderful news than I began to worry about other things. I began to worry about Zoey's health because I read online about another lady who hadn't felt as much movement of her baby and was worried which made a red flag pop up in my head (for no real reason. I don't think I've really felt a decrease in movement just the power of suggestion). I began to worry about other things that I have no control over. Worrying about them doesn't show godliness. It doesn't show others whom we belong to. 

"God is bigger than the boogy man and He's watching out for you and me!" This simple Veggie Tales song is so true. Maybe it would do some good for me to remember it every now and then!

2 Peter

Over the next week I am going to be doing a devotional based on 2 Peter through YouVersion (check out the link here). I think it will help me stick with it if I share what insight I am gaining from my readings so that's what I'll be attempting to do over the next week or so.

Today, they had us read the entire book of 2nd Peter. I had taken a class over it in Bible College (it was actually 1 and 2 Peter and Jude) with the amazing Prof. Chesser and remember learning a ton, but, truthfully, I've forgotten a lot of it. I'm so excited to reread it now!

A few verses stuck out to me as I read today. First there was this:
"But there were also false prophets among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you. They will secretly introduce destructive heresies, even denying the sovereign Lord who bought them—bringing swift destruction on themselves. Many will follow their depraved conduct and will bring the way of truth into disrepute. In their greed these teachers will exploit you with fabricated stories. Their condemnation has long been hanging over them, and their destruction has not been sleeping. For if God did not spare angels when they sinned, but sent them to hell, putting them in chains of darkness to be held for judgment; if he did not spare the ancient world when he brought the flood on its ungodly people, but protected Noah, a preacher of righteousness, and seven others; if he condemned the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah by burning them to ashes, and made them an example of what is going to happen to the ungodly;  and if he rescued Lot, a righteous man, who was distressed by the depraved conduct of the lawless  (for that righteous man, living among them day after day, was tormented in his righteous soul by the lawless deeds he saw and heard)—  if this is so, then the Lord knows how to rescue the godly from trials and to hold the unrighteous for punishment on the day of judgment. This is especially true of those who follow the corrupt desire of the flesh^[c] and despise authority." 2 Peter 2: 1-10

Here we are reminded that God will judge the false teachers. He will hold accountable those that exploit His people. No, we may not see it this lifetime, but, if I'm being honest, this is a comfort to me. There are so many people in the world who do evil. Who use God's word and His church for their own personal gain. It's nice to know that in the end, they will get what is coming to them. I don't have to worry about what they may gain here on this earth. 

Also we have:
"But the day of the Lord will come like a thief. The heavens will disappear with a roar; the elements will be destroyed by fire, and the earth and everything done in it will be laid bare." 2 Peter 3:10

The end is coming. Like it or not, accept it or not, the end is coming. And God wants everyone to come to it (it even says exactly that in the previous verse). He doesn't want anyone to perish. What are you doing to reach the lost? What are you doing to help advance the kingdom? What am I doing? I hope we are doing all we can in our own lives and ministries whether your ministry is as a church leader or a Sunday school teacher or as a bug man or a classroom teacher or even just as a wife and mother. My hope for you and I is that we do everything we can where we are to advance His kingdom. 

Weekly Update

How far along? 28 weeks

How big is baby? About the size of an eggplant. 1.5-2.5 lbs. and 13.6-14.8 inches long.

Total weight gain? 16 lbs. as of Thursday of last week I believe. Two pounds in a week...Dr. Lowe should be happy with me! haha. 

Maternity Clothes? Nothing new. I've been very blessed that some of my old clothes (especially the ones I wear to work) have elastic waistbands so I can still wear them come August and September. 

Stretch Marks? None that I am aware of.

Sleep? It hasn't been too bad. My biggest complaint it after sleeping in one position for a while I wake up achy and needing to change positions which isn't easy as I get bigger. I am by no means huge at this point but I still have trouble getting up from certain positions already.

Movement? She has been moving a ton. She loves to hang out the the right of my belly button so that my stomach is all uneven and crazy looking.

Cravings? Nothing specific. Not on a regular basis at least. I did get a strong hankering for frozen yogurt last weekend and had to drive up to Menchie's but other than that, no real cravings.

What I miss? I don't think there is anything in particular this week that I miss. Maybe my energy but I have't really had a huge decrease in energy yet.

What I am looking forward to? This is something I'm both looking forward to and at the same time not looking forward to. According to the chart I've been following I am officially in the third trimester now. That is super exciting because we are so close to getting to hold her and meet her and snuggle her, but, at the same time 1) it is scary to think that she will be here so soon and 2) I am not looking forward to the fun I've heard about that is the third trimester. The backache and sore ribs and hips; the swelling and the lack of energy. I know it will all be worth in come September. 

Friday's Five Favorites

Inspired by a fellow blogger and friend I am going to try to do a list on Friday's of five of my favorite things. This week I am going to start simple and go with books (which will be EXTREMELY difficult for me as I LOVE to read and have probably devoured over 1,000 easily in my life time).

5. Captivating by John & Staci Eldredge. This book has been incredible in helping me find out my purpose as a woman and about how God sees me.

4. The Chronicles of Narnia Series by C.S. Lewis. I know this is a series but it is so good. 

3. The Bible. I know this is cliche. However, it really is more than just a book. It's like a road map and a guide on how to live and how to love.

2. Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers. I've read this book through only a total of two times so far BUT each time I have learned something new and different about myself. It is also a wonderful reminder of how much God loves and and how he would do anything, ANYTHING to reach us and bring us back to hime. 

1. Marta's Legacy Series (Her Mother's Hope and Her Daughter's Dream) by Francine Rivers. This series I have read through a few times. It is is about 4 generations of women and their lives. I see myself in each of these women in different ways. Just seeing how they relate to each other and how things turn out is amazing. 

If you are looking for a good summer read consider any of these options. I highly recommend all of them as excellent reads!

Weekly Update

How Far Along? 27 weeks

How Big is Baby? The size of a rutabaga. 13.6-14.8 inches and 1.5-2.5 lbs. Wow. Just wow.

Total Weight Gain?  On Wednesday it was 14 lbs. total so far so I'm still sticking with that but I don't know what it is exactly as of today.

Maternity Clothes? I am really starting to look pregnant now. I find that SO exciting!!

Stretch Marks? Nope

Sleep? It's actually been going fairly well. I'm not sure if it's because I'm so tired or what but I am glad that it is getting better.

Movement? I love feeling her move. She is getting stronger by the week.

Cravings? Food. Anything and everything again.

What I Miss? I miss sleeping on my stomach. I miss sleeping for hours and hours with out a backache. I miss spending 6 hours out with the girls (eating dinner, walking around Downtown Disney, playing mini golf and then for coffee) and not being ready to fall sleep after the first 2 hours.

What I am Looking Forward to? Being almost 3 months away from meeting our little girl!

Oh and This! I felt Zoey have hiccups for the first time this week! I first felt them when I got back from my OB appointment on Wednesday. It was a very faint, consistent thump. I know she wasn't kicking or anything like that. Her kicks have become stronger over the weeks. I also felt it today and Tyler got to feel it too!

What a powerful message!

http://www.getreallife.com/watch/recent-messages/

This is the message from Sunday. WOW what a powerful message it was!!

A few of the things I picked up:

"Are you focusing on your problems or God's promises?"

"Are you focusing on your odds or on your God?"

"You've GOT to trust God!"

"NOTHING is impossible with God!"

-Satan is a lion looking to devour.

• a lion will never work harder than it has to-make it hard for the lion to work
• a lion's roar is incredible-powerful, intimidating and frightening
• the enemy is powerless over the God that lives in you
• he (the enemy) uses his roar to make you feel fearful and immobile

v. 20

• what do you do when facing an impossible situation? PRAY!!! Cry out to God
• you can panic or pray
• you can give up or look up

When we cry out to God He comes through for us!

I realize these notes may not make sense to you. Please just listen to the sermon. Week 16 if you are looking at this at a later date. It is really powerful. I hope that it touches you as much as it touched me. I pray that if you are in need to hearing this that you will be open and will hear the message that is being given. I pray that if you are seeking God you will seek out someone to answer your questions. Contact me with questions. I'd be happy to help and if I can't answer them I will find someone who can and point you in their direction. Please don't give up.

Weekly Update

How Far Along? 26 weeks

How Big is Baby? 13.6 - 14.8 inches and 1.5 to 2.5 lbs. About the size of a head of lettuce.

Total Weight Gain? Checked today when we were at mom and dad's house for Father's Day and I've gained 15 lbs! That is exciting to me as I was having a hard time gaining weight in the beginning.

Maternity Clothes? Same old same old. I'm starting to properly fit into some of the bigger clothes that I have. I put together a fairly cute outfit today for church if I do say so myself.

Stretch Marks? None

Sleep? It's been better since I've been out of school. I think the ability to go to sleep when I want and to nap when I need to is helping. Even though I spent the last week getting up with Tyler I must confess 3 of the days I went back to sleep after he left!

Movement? I love feeling her move! Sometimes I can see her move and lick so hard my whole belly will move. Other times she must be facing my back because I can feel her move but it can't be seen from the outside. By far the worst is when she moves toward my bladder! Even if it isn't full she will roll over or kick or punch it or something and man I feel like I could wet myself right then and there! I can't imagine what it will be like when she gets bigger and keeps doing that!

Food Cravings? Chocolate! In the worst way! Thankfully at girls movie night last night my good friend Brittany brought some M&M's and another friend made THE MOST amazing chocolate covered strawberries. I don't know where she got the strawberries or if she maybe sweetened them a little prior to putting the chocolate on but OH. MY. GOODNESS they were TO. DIE. FOR!!

What I Miss? A friend posted a picture of her dinner the other night and it consisted of some type Mike's Hard Lemonade type drink (it wasn't this exactly but it was similar) and it made me miss it a little. Of course I will never touch it until after Zoey is here safe and sound but it looked so yummy!

What I am Looking Forward to? A fun-filled, surprise Friday outing for a friend's birthday!!

Oh and This! When we got home from my parent's house this evening I was walking to put my shoes away and there was some dirt on the tile in the entry way. I slipped and fell on my booty and it's already sore! I can feel right where I fell already just sitting at the kitchen table. I am not looking forward to how it's going to feel in the morning that's for sure!

Woah

In 2 1/2 weeks I will officially be in the 3rd trimester! Tomorrow I will be down into double digits until my due date! I can't believe how fast this is going by. I can't believe it's only 100 days until we can meet our sweet little angel.

Went to the movies last night and we ran into a couple that Tyler married over a year a go. While he was talking to them he called over to me to stand up to show off my baby bump. The whole way over and periodically before the movie began he would put his hand on my belly to try to feel her move. He didn't get to feel her until we were already home but when he did his eyes lit up like he was a little kid on Christmas.

Earlier in the week I set up the pack and play in our room even though it's so early because it was on my summer 'to-do list'. I set a teddy bear in the infant bassinet part that I found when I was rearranging stuff just because. Mom came over the next day to drop off some school things and some diapers she got from a coworker that her grandchild had grown out of. She then proceeded to put one of the diapers on the teddy bear and put it back in the bassinet. I think she's getting excited too!

25 week fun

So starting this week I've been having all kinds of new (and not so new) aches and pains.

My lower back and legs are two of the new pains. They had been bothering me on and off since getting pregnant of course but not like this. They are achy and sore which is really strange to me because I am off of school. I have been sitting down and laying around the house more than when I'm in school. In school I would sit when I could but of course there were times when I would be required to stand walking the kids to block or lunch, or when I was teaching or helping with lessons. That's what makes it so strange. I'm not standing nearly as much as I was but my legs and back ache more now than they did last week in school.

One of the ones that is not so new is round ligament pain. I had some during the first trimester sometimes when I was just sitting around but now when I walk around sometimes I can feel it.

I've been trying to take things slower and move slower now that I know that it's happening again.

I just hope that I can figure out some ways of relief before I go back to school in the fall or it will be one LONG month prior to Zoey being born.

Weekly Update

How Far Along? 25 weeks

How Big is Baby? 13.6 - 14.8 inches and 1.5 - 2.2 lbs. The size of a Cauliflower :) She is growing fast

Total Weight Gain? We really need to invest in a scale. I don't know what I'm up now.

Maternity Clothes? I am able to fit in to some of the larger clothes I was given by a friend and it doesn't look like I am swimming in them anymore. I also discovered that a bathing suit I got back in high school that was always slightly too big now fits and will be borderline too small soon. I guess this summer my swimming will be spent in shorts and a t-shirt :(

Stretch Marks? Still none that I am aware of.

Sleep? It's been about the same. I can only sleep for about a total of 8 hours each night but during the day I feel ready to nap after working or after doing a few chores.

Movement? It's been consistent. The other night in bed Zoey must have been rolling over. Tyler was able to feel her move for sure and all he could say was "What is she doing in there?!?"

Food Cravings? EVERYTHING. Friday I wanted everything from pizza to frozen yogurt. Thankfully we had pizza yesterday and while Tyler napped I went and picked up some frozen yogurt for myself :) It is a bad idea to go to the grocery store when you are pregnant and craving everything!

What I Miss? Nothing in particular. I'm pretty okay with being pregnant and know that everything I have given up has been for Zoey's benefit. It will all be worth it comes September.

What I am Looking Forward to? Bible Study tomorrow night. There is this really great group of women that I meet with on Monday nights. This will be the first week that I am able to stay after and connect with them and I am so excited about that!

Oh and This! I read on a pregnancy website earlier about ladies who are pregnant getting baby fever and not wanting to let go of nieces and nephews and such and I though, nah, I'm not there yet. However at church today I saw a mom and dad with a newborn in the service and I got all excited. Then on the way out after the service I saw a mom walking her maybe one year old to the car and my heart melted! Then I saw a family walking in with their little boy and again my heart melted. I am just so excited for Zoey to be here. Of course I want her to keep growing and for her to be just right when she is born but man oh man I am getting excited!!!

School's Out!

Yippee I am officially on summer break now! Finished all the last day procedures (taking everything down and putting it all in the middle of the room so they can paint over the summer) then went to lunch with my mama and now I think I just might take a little nap!

Baby Showers

I love baby showers. To me they are a celebration of the mom-to-be and the coming bundle of joy that is soon to join the world. Sure, presents are usually involved. People like to use gifts to welcome and show support for the mom and the baby. But of course they are not required. In my humble opinion the only requirement of a shower (baby or bridal) is to be there and spend time with the soon to be mom/bride to show her support and love.

I also don't come from the school of thought that a hostess is required for a shower or that if there is one that is cannot in any way, shape or form be the guest of honor or a member of her immediate family. To me, it's not about the gifts. I can completely understand how if someone expected gifts it would seem like all they were doing was saying "gimme gimme gimme" but, as I said earlier, to me the purpose of a shower is to show love and support to time guest of honor.

Weekly Update

How Far Along: 24 week. Viability!!! YAY!!!

How Big is Baby: The size of a cantaloupe. 10.5-11.8 inches and 12.7-20.8 ounces.

Total Weight Gain:  Don't know. We don't own a scale so I haven't checked my weight since my last appointment almost two weeks a go.

Maternity Clothes: Nothing new. I really just plan on living in my two pairs of stretchy shorts, my two stretch dresses and the maternity shorts and pants I already have.

Stretch Marks: None that I have found as of yet. I am starting to get that linea nigra that I've been hearing so much about.

Sleep: I've been sleeping a lot more lately. Friday night I fell asleep around 8 and slept until 10 then fell back asleep and slept till 1:30. Then I fell back asleep and slept until 8 Saturday morning. Saturday night I went to sleep around 10 and then woke up around 3 when hubby came to bed. I was awake for about two hours then slept till 9. I've been feeling refreshed but being awake for two hours during the night has been a little strange.

Movement: She has been moving tons and tons. Went to the pool today and as I was sitting out drying off and sunning she was moving my whole belly!

Food Cravings: Still nothing consistent; just food in general.

What I miss: My energy. I come home from school every day exhausted to the point of being able to take a nap but I won't allow myself to do so because I know I won't be able to sleep that night if I do. Even getting up 4 hours a go and spending 2 hours at the pool I am ready for a nap.

What I am looking forward to: School getting out (still). We are down to 4 days with the students and 5 for us teachers. This summer I am planning on getting things ready for Zoey by cleaning the house and once her room is painted putting her furniture in place and possibly redoing her dresser. I'm also planning on moving the book case in our room by the window to put the Pack N Play at the foot of our bed to make access to Zoey that much easier. Then there's all the plans I have for getting things ready for my new 2nd grade classroom including lesson plans and hall passes and stuff like that.

Oh and This!: Have I mentioned viability week yet?!? I can't believe we made it this far! Of course we hope that she keeps cooking for 16  weeks but still 16 weeks to go until we meet this little bundle of joy!

Field Day

So today was field day for 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade at our school. It was a pretty good day. We went to 9 of the 11 stations and spent most of the day outside. After lunch they had a teacher volleyball game which was supposed to be fun for the kids to watch. Well, not all of the classes came back to watch the volleyball game and the coaches had all the kids 'sit' on one side of the court.

Well, the problem came when the other teachers went to play the game. That left about 3-4 teachers to watch the 12-15 classes that were there to watch the game. The problems began when the game started. Several students stood up so they could see the game, not realizing that the game was going to be visible from any seat.

From that point, everyone else began to stand up. Then kids started getting bored and running around and chasing each other. I had to break up several shoving matches and the beginnings of at least two fights. Then a group of about 15 students decided it was a good time to try to go play on the obstacle course. Needless to say, that ended the game and any chance of field day that our students had left.

The most frustrating part was that the coaches had a bull horn; they could have told the students to sit down. Instead, they were watching the game themselves and not paying any attention to what was happening behind them.

Throughout the day I could feel Zoey kicking when the kids were playing at different stations. It was also entertaining to see one of my girls put her hat to the side like an 80's kid and do the running man when they put on an 80's song. It was also comical to hear some of my boys talking after I made the comment "I don't know about you, but I'm hungry!" trying to get the kids to line up for lunch. I could here about 3 of my boys talking and they said something like "and so is Zoey. When Zoey gets hungry so does Mrs. Lowe!"

My Innie

I discovered today that my belly button is becoming shallower and shallower.

It always makes me smile when someone comments on my belly getting bigger. Today it was our school librarian. She was one of the first at school to know as she was in the principle secretary's office when I came by to ask for the FMLA paperwork. She is such a sweet person to begin with and she was so excited when she found out!

I've started taking down things in my classroom. I focused on the walls and shorter bulletin boards today. The next step is to get the kids to help me organize the leveled library plus pack up all my books and everything I have in the cabinets.

Hopefully by the time next week rolls around I will have it all packed up and can just spend Friday moving boxes and cleaning staples out of the walls so that I am ready to go ASAP.

It is so hard to focus on these last few days. The kids are done and frankly so am I. Also, my mind is already on things to do to get ready for Zoey over the summer so everything is ready by the time school starts again and things to prepare for next school year moving grades and going departmentalized. I have all these ideas I want to start on and things I want to prep and things I want to look up and decide on for my room! It's all just so exciting! 6 more days!! Hip-Hip-Hooray!!!

Weekly Update A little late :/

How far along: 23 Weeks

How big is baby: The size of an ear of corn (8.5 in, 1.5 lbs.) This makes me laugh seeing as yesterday was Memorial Day and we had a cookout including corn on the cob!

Total weight gain: Last dr appointment it was about 8 lbs. and the dr. seemed satisfied with that so far.

Maternity clothes: Nothing new but I did discover this morning the only way I am still able to wear my black dress pants anymore is to wear a maternity top with them. I used to be able to wear them with a rubber band and zipped up most of the way so I could wear whatever top I wanted. However, the zipper only goes up a tiny bit now. 

Stretch marks: None yet. My skin is feeling tighter and itchy but I haven't seen any official stretch marks yet. 

Sleep: No real changes. I have noticed an increase in stuffy nose-ness. They say this is all due to hormones and other pregnancy things. It seems if I elevate my head ever so slightly I am able to clear my nose and sleep better. 

Movement: Earlier tonight I was laying in bed and Zoey must have been doing all kinds of summersaults and flips and flops in there because it sure looked like I had an alien trying to escape from my belly button!

Food cravings: Nothing consistent. 

What I miss: Sleeping on my stomach (still) and being able to stay up till 2 am then get up at 6 for school and be perfectly fine to function all day. Hubby and I stayed up watching movies last night (well, one really, Juno, which got him SO excited about being a daddy!!) and didn't get to bed till 2:30 or 3 then we had to get up at 6 for work and school. Needless to say, when I got home I was more than ready to go to bed around 7 or 8 tonight. 

What I am looking forward to: Getting Zoey's room painted so we can start setting up her crib and sheets and everything. I also think we have nailed down a shower date so I'm starting to look forward to getting an invite list together for that. 

Milestones: Zoey is developing her sense of touch more and more each day. 

Oh, and THIS: I discovered in the shower today that if I stand up straight (I tend to hunch my shoulders out of a terrible habit from middle school) I am unable to see my toes anymore! Of course, I'm still small enough so that I can bend over a little and see them perfectly but the thought that Zoey is covering them that much is so exciting to me!

Monday Night Bible Study

I began attending the Monday Night Women's Bible Study when Jill began it around the beginning of this year. We read through the book Lies Women Believe and man oh man was it good! This time around we are reading Redeeming Love. I don't know all of these ladies very well yet but I am excited to get to know them better and to grow spiritually with them on our journey together.

I feel so blessed to be able to meet with these women each week and to grow together and to have that bond and to know that if I ever needed them any of them would be there for me in a heartbeat. 

Earlier tonight Zoey was doing all kinds of flip flops and summersaults in my tummy. It was so cool to be able to lay back and watch her make my stomach look like an alien was trying to emerge. Maybe she will be an Olympic swimmer or gymnast or maybe she'll be a soccer player or kickball champion or ballerina. Regardless she LOVES to move around when I lay still. 

This weekend

Wow, just one week until Zoey is technically viable outside the womb! That is amazing! Of course we hope she continues to grow as long as necessary but that thought along just blows my mind!

I also never thought I'd say this but it's only Sunday of our three day weekend and I'm bored already! I cleaned yesterday and I don't really have much to prep for school since we are so close to the end of the year. I just don't know what to do with myself.

I don't have anything to prep for Zoey right now (we are waiting to get her room painted before we start moving things in and rearranging). Plus we don't have any clothes or anything for her yet (we still have time of course she isn't coming for another 4 months).

The only things we are providing for the cookout tomorrow is a meat and the corn so there isn't anything to prep there.

Maybe I will go spend some time at the pool.

Dr Appointment

The doctor appointment went really well. He said everything looks good. And I found out so far I've gained about 8 lbs.

11 Days and Counting!

Just a few more days until summer vacation. I. CAN. DO. THIS. I am looking forward to having the time off and so are the kids. They are certainly looking forward to it.

I don't think I will ever get tired of feeling our sweet angel kick and wiggle around. It's so awesome-most of the time. It's not as wonderful when she decides to start playing jump on mommies full bladder right before lunch time but maybe she is just trying to remind me to make sure I go every change I get!

Weekly Update

How far along: 22 Weeks

How big is baby: The size of a papaya! She's 10.5 to 11.8 inches and weighs between 12.7 to 20.8 ounces!!

Total weight gain: We don't currently own a scale so I'm not sure. If I remember I can update when I go to the doctor on Wednesday

Maternity clothes: Nothing new added to the collection. However, the jeans I bought last year a size to big (for school so the legs weren't skin tight and they were appropriate for school) are now to the point where I have to close the button with a hair tie!

Stretch marks: None yet. My skin is feeling tighter and itchy but I haven't seen any official stretch marks yet. 

Sleep: It's going okay. The biggest issue I am having currently is not being able to sleep long hours anymore. The other night I went to bed around 10 I think but at 3:30 I woke up having to use the bathroom. From that point on I was wide awake. It got to the point where I got up around 4:30 to watch tv. 

Movement: The entire 4th grade went on a field trip to Arabian Knights on Friday. During the show they were playing music to go along with different parts of the show. Every time they played something she would just dance and kick away!  was teasing Tyler that she is going to grow up to be a horse lover!

Food cravings: Nothing consistent. It seems just the power of suggestion is what gets me. I saw some chipotle in a friend's fridge and began craving that. Or we drove past a chick-fil-a Friday on the way home from the trip and I wanted that.

What I miss: Sleeping on my stomach and the occasional mixed drink. Of course she will be worth it all but it was nice after a tough day to come home and relax a little.

What I am looking forward to: The end of school! We are down to 3 weeks (13 days for the kids and 14 for me!!) and then I can start really working on Zoey's room and getting things ready for her. Our sweet roommates are officially moved out now so we have an empty room that I can start transforming!! I'm also looking forward to just generally getting the house ready and being able to prepare for next school year teaching 2nd grade math and science. 

Milestones: Zoey is developing her red blood vessels and her heat beat can now be heard not only with a doppler but also with a regular stethoscope!

Oh, and THIS: My mom and i went to church and then lunch. Then mom told me she wanted to buy me something for Zoey and it could be anything I wanted. I decided on the crib set because it was on sale and was the last one. We also went over to look at the crib to see it in person and to make sure that I liked it since I registered for everything online. Then mom tells me I was also getting the crib, mattress and converter rails today! So, we went home with a brand new crib and converter rails, a mattress AND the crib bedding set!! Sadly, someone opened the bedding set and took two of the mobile animals but we can always get different animals to add to it. I just love the bedding so much I don't want to risk taking it back and then not being able to get it again. 

Long Day

So, this morning like normal I was up between 7 and 8 am. Boo. I guess this is my bodies way of preparing me for when little Zoey comes. Anyway, I got up and I started a load of laundry and made breakfast. Then I cleaned the kitchen and got the last box of kitchen supplies from my father-in-law out of the garage and put in the dishwasher to wash. I also moved all of Zoey's stuff into what will be her room just to get it out of the garage.

Then I made my grocery list and went to the store. I came back and ate and then began working on the living room and dinning room. This included moving some of the extra pictures from our bedroom out the the living room. It is exciting getting to decorate our house for just the two of us again. Then I sat down and looked up a few things for next year as well as took a peak at my math curriculum just to get an idea of what I'll be getting myself into.

Tyler helped me move the extra bed into one of the spare rooms despite his poor back. Then mom and dad came over and dad changed the oil int he truck and we rearranged the garage so that the roommates stuff is on one side and ready for them to be able to pick up. Plus the stuff we are trying to see is out in case anyone wishes to come look at it or buy it.

I came in and made dinner, ate, looked up more stuff for next year and now here I sit watching Zoey bounce around. It's not even 7:30 and I already feel like I could lay down for the night and sleep! It was a very productive day and for that I am glad but I am no exhausted!

It's hard to believe that tomorrow I will be 22 weeks pregnant! Just two more weeks and little Zoey will have a chance of surviving outside my body should it come down to that! Wow! Of course I pray she stays put until she is fully developed but it is mind blowing that we have come this far! I pray she continues to grow and get strong each and every day!

Bittersweet Day

Today (well, yesterday really) was a bittersweet day. The girls moved officially moved out. On the one hand, I am SO happy for them! The new apartment complex they are living at is pretty sweet. It has an awesome pool, a mini gym open from 5:30-11 daily, a business center where you can print for free, a "dog spa" with treats for the pooches, free breakfast every Saturday morning and much much more. And, I would be lying if i said part of me wasn't glad to have the house just Tyler and I again. Especially with Zoey coming.

But, it certainly isn't the same without them. It's strange not to see two extra cars in the drive way or to see at least one of them sitting on the couch when I walk through the door. It's strange to have their bathroom empty not to mention most of their rooms.

I know they are just down the road and I have not doubt that we will be seeing lots of each other. They still have keys to our place and they know the garage code so if they want to come over of course they can at any time and know they are welcome.

This also gives Tyler and I the opportunity to (well, me I guess haha) start rearranging things in the kitchen and to bring in the things for Zoey we have. We can also bring in the extra bed and set it up to get it out of the garage. Plus it's just plain exciting to think about starting to set up Zoey's room!

I also found out today that next year I will be teaching math and science for 2nd grade. I'm excited about who I will be team teaching with. She is my age and the few interactions I've had with her (teaching different grades we haven't had much of a chance to interact yet) have shown her to be SUCH a sweet person. I am a little anxious about switching again only because I had such a rough experience with it earlier this year. However, the more I thought about it I realized it is a beautiful thing. If one of the classes ends up being a terribly tough class I will only have them for half a day verses risking having a tough class all day. Plus, in 2nd grade how tough can they really be? I mean, I've seen most of the first grade classes in the lunch room and none of them seem to be too terrible. All in all I think it is going to be a great year! The 2nd grade team is AWESOME and like I said my new partner seems like we are going to be a great fit!

A First Time for Everything

This morning on my way to work I had to pull over because I was getting sick. So far this hasn't happened to me during my pregnancy. I was really surprised. I've come to the conclusion it was just a fluke of my prenatal vitamins because for the rest of the day other than being a little sleepy I've felt fine.

I also got my lessons plans done for the rest of the year! It isn't much (there are only about 3 weeks left at this point) BUT it just feels good to have them done and ready to go. To have a direction to go and a plan laid out. Besides that, it frees up my time to think about how to plan for next year!

I have this vision in my head of what a good mom does and looks like in the morning. In my mind she is up in plenty of time to eat breakfast (now I am not saying homemade pancakes or anything but cereal or something) and then time to do a devo and drink some coffee all before getting ready for the day (and getting the baby ready). In my mind this is something I have been trying to do all week. I set the alarm so that I have an entire hour before I need to leave. I tell myself every night before falling asleep that this is going to be the day; I am really going to get up with the alarm and do all this. But, what ends up happening is I hit the snooze until I only have about 20 minutes or so until I have to leave the house. It doesn't matter if I go to bed at 8 or midnight, I still cannot get my behind out of bed. Clearly this is going to half to change in the next 4 and 1/2 months but just getting there is going to be a challenge.

Weekly Update

I saw this on a sweet friends blog and thought it would be fun to (attempt) to do the same on my page...I know I am a wee bit behind BUT seeing as I got things rolling a little late I think it's acceptable! ;)

How far along? 21 Weeks

How big is baby? Between a banana and a spaghetti squash!

Total weight gain: about 9 lbs.

Maternity Clothes?  A few that I have gotten as gifts for my birthday or from a friend when I first discovered I was pregnant. Thankfully most of my school clothes (skirts and such) have elastic waists so I can continue to wear them throughout the pregnancy...at least for this year!

Stretch marks? None that I can see yet!

Sleep: It is ok. The biggest issue I am having right now is getting woken up in the middle of the night after catching a few hours. This makes it very difficult to fall back to sleep as I have gotten a few hours already.

Movement: She is moving in spurts. I notice it mostly when I am sitting down or laying down and relaxed although I have felt her a few times a school sitting at my desk. 

Food cravings: Almost ANY type of food. I LOVE banana peppers and I also can't get enough of the sweet, sugary things like cookies that I shouldn't have!

What I miss: Sleeping in till all hours of the morning (or afternoon) on weekends! I don't know if this is because my body is accustomed to getting up for school 5 days a week, because of the baby or both but by the end of a work day I am so exhausted I long for being able to sleep hours upon hours again1

What I am looking forward to: The end of school! It is so close! This summer is going to give me the opportunity to nest some (which I am starting to do in bits and pieces already!!) and plan for teaching second grade next year!!

Milestones: We are half way there! I am so blessed to be able to partner with God through this growth and development of little Zoey. It just amazes me that we are half way there already!!!

Oh, and THIS: Yes, I will be teaching second grade next year!!! I am SO SO SO grateful to have a grade that does not have to worry about FCAT and is also not so needy as to require me to tie their shoes either. I have SO many ideas for my classroom and am SO excited to scour the internet to see what other great ideas I can come up with.