Today she learned how to growl, and she hasn't stopped!
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
Friday, July 15, 2011
2 months old- video included
OMG... the days seem to go by slow, but time is flying by somehow. Kenzie is already 2 months old!!!
Last weekend, my mom, Kenzie and I traveled to Houston so that Kenzie could meet her great, great grandmother. That's right 5 generations. 91 years apart. When I was born, both my great, great grandparents were alive. I was able to be apart of a 5 generation picture also. VERY COOL!!
She has such a cute personality. She is most definitely more happy in the morning after she has eaten and also as you are trying desperately to get her to fall asleep at 11pm. She is all smiles and giggles and coos. Very cute! If only the rest of the day she was like that! She has tummy issues so she can be fussy. Some days are way better than others.
As for sleep schedule, she usually will go to sleep between 11pm and 12am. Then she will typically sleep 5-7 hours before she wakes up hungry. Then she will eat, play for about 15-20 minutes and go back to sleep until it's time to eat again. I am grateful for the sleep I am getting. I've learned to try and keep her awake or only let her take short naps/rests after 6pm. She does much better when that is accomplished. (I hope I didn't just jinx myself by saying this.)
As for mommy updates- I don't get out of the house much. I no longer have a car either. It was totaled when Kenzie was 2 weeks old. I now borrow my parents car when I need it. We also have the truck- which gets a whopping 8mpg when it's empty. It's a good day for me if a few bottles get cleaned and a load of laundry gets washed. It's a great day if I get a shower. Sundays are the ONLY days you will see me with makeup and a quick attempt at plucking my eyebrows. BUT I don't wear my pjs all day!!! :-)
Daddy updates- Brady LOVES his baby girl!!! He hasn't had any work lately, but he has been doing alot of job bids. If you don't already know this- he owns a fence and deck company called PlanksNPickets. You can visit the website at www.planksnpickets.com. Since he hasn't been doing much work, he was able to spend 2 weeks in Joplin, MO for disaster relief after the May22 tornado that took so many lives and destroyed even more homes.
And one final picture to leave you with.
Monday, June 27, 2011
Smiles- 1st month
Well, Miss Kenzie Rose is now 5 1/2 weeks old now. Boy does time fly by!!!! She is quite the nosy little thing. Here are a few updates.
*She prefers to be up on your shoulder looking around.
*She is fairly efficient at holding her head up(and has been since birth).
*She has learned to smile when she recognizes someone that she knows. (hasn't done it for a stranger yet)
*She is starting to realize she can make noises other than cry. (cooing)
*She is finally fitting into her newborn clothes. (I think she's about 8lbs now)
*Her daddy's voice calms her down most of the time.
*She has not lost any of her hair, but it is getting lighter.
*Her eyes are still blue and seem to be getting a little lighter blue.
*She loves to sit in her swing.
*She has yet to sleep in her room. (she apparently has a nosy mommy too)
*It takes her 20 minutes of stretching to wake up from a nap. (very cute)
*She's already had several road trips across Texas. (College Station, Port Aransas, and Dallas)
*She still looks like her daddy!!!
*She prefers to be up on your shoulder looking around.
*She is fairly efficient at holding her head up(and has been since birth).
*She has learned to smile when she recognizes someone that she knows. (hasn't done it for a stranger yet)
*She is starting to realize she can make noises other than cry. (cooing)
*She is finally fitting into her newborn clothes. (I think she's about 8lbs now)
*Her daddy's voice calms her down most of the time.
*She has not lost any of her hair, but it is getting lighter.
*Her eyes are still blue and seem to be getting a little lighter blue.
*She loves to sit in her swing.
*She has yet to sleep in her room. (she apparently has a nosy mommy too)
*It takes her 20 minutes of stretching to wake up from a nap. (very cute)
*She's already had several road trips across Texas. (College Station, Port Aransas, and Dallas)
*She still looks like her daddy!!!
Hanging with my Ammie in Corpus Christi.
First trip to the zoo with BFF Macy(2 days older)
Smiling at Mommy!
Play time!
Chillin with Daddy before he went to Joplin, Mo to help with Disaster Relief.
Sunday Afternoon Nap with Daddy.
Saturday, May 28, 2011
Labor and Delivery
So it all began with a midwife appointment on Wednesday. I was 40 weeks and 5 days pregnant. They told me it didn't look like Miss Kenzie would be coming on her own so it was time to consider induction since I wasn't even dilating. We all agreed that it was the best decision even though it wasn't how we wanted to do things. (you know it's time when your "midwife" says it is) We scheduled our induction for Monday night and to start the pitocin on Tuesday morning. When we got into the car, I cried. And cried, and cried, and cried. I wasn't wanting to go this route nor did I want to wait any longer. I wasn't sleeping anymore and she was getting quite painful to carry since she was STILL facing the wrong direction.
When we got home, Brady spoke up and told me to call and move the induction up since there wasn't really a reason to wait any longer. Thankfully, they had a bed available for the following evening. Which would mean I could have Kenzie on Friday(my 23rd birthday). At this point, I was just relieved to hear she would be coming sooner than later.
Thursday morning came, and I repacked my bags since we'd be staying an extra night. I caught up on laundry, and cleaned the kitchen and bathrooms. My mind wasn't on any one task though, so I'm not thinking I was very thorough. I'm sure my mother in law got a kick out of watching me walk in circles around the house trying to remember what I had in my hand and what I came to this room for. :-)
It's now 4:15pm and we have to be at the hospital at 5pm. We get everything loaded in the car. I go to sit down on the passenger side of the car and the entire front of my pants rip in two. I seriously thought my water had broke. We all got a good laugh which I really needed since I was tense. So we finally make it to the hospital and get our room. Things are good. The midwife Jan came in and inserted the Cervidil. She said this would help get my body ready for contractions and so that I would be able to dilate when they started the pitocin the following morning. She also mentioned that for a very small amount of women, the Cervidil can start labor and bring contractions. They kept me on the monitors to watch the baby's heart beat and see if any contractions would start.
9:30pm Brady brings me Chick-fil-a for dinner. The nurse won't let me off the monitors to try and get Kenzie to flip on her own. She was following hospital protocol but my midwife would have let me.
10:30pm Contractions start and are strong enough that I'm using breathing techniques to get through them. They are about 2 mins apart.
11:30pm Midwife Jan comes in and asks me why I hadn't spoke up about having painful contractions. My reply was something along the lines of, "Isn't this why I'm here, so that I can go into labor?!?" She then removed the cervidil(which normally needs 12 hours to work) and gave me a little bit of pain meds so I could sleep through the night since we would be having a long day on Friday.
5am I am at 3cm. I was able to get about 4 hours of sleep. Contractions are still 2 mins apart and are getting stronger.
7am Midwife Christi comes in to check on me. Says things are looking great, we won't need any pitocin!
12pm contractions are CRAZY STRONG!!!! Back labor is horrendous! Midwife Christi suggests I use the yoga ball to help with the back labor and try and get Miss Kenzie to flip. I end up throwing up my dinner at this point since the back pain is so strong. I say something like "I'm done, I just want to go home now. I don't want to do this anymore."
1pm Christi now suggested that I try and use the bed and have Brady help put counter pressure on my lower back to help with the pain and Kenzie may have an easier time turning. (I am currently on no medicines)
1:30pm Kenzie is still facing the wrong way. And I'm at 6cm. I'm not able to breath through the contractions anymore. It's more of a yelling moan sound that is coming out. I'm crying and no one knows how to help me. My back is the only thing that hurts... I can't even feel the true contractions, just back labor. At this point my contractions are about 30 seconds apart, lasting between 60- 90 seconds long. I know I said some things I shouldn't at this point because I was mad that I didn't get any breaks in between to relax.
2pm Christi is now suggesting that I truly consider getting an epidural because I'm so tense that I'm not dilating anymore and Kenzie can't turn since I'm so tense.
2:05 The anesthesiologist walks through the door. I tell him that he's my hero.
2:15 BLISS!!!!! Christi tries to break my water since I have so much amniotic fluid. She thinks this will help the contractions get stronger. She also thinks that having the epi will allow me to relax enough that Kenzie can turn and get engaged.
3:30 Contractions have stopped almost completely. Christi is now forced to give me pitocin to make the contractions come back.
5pm Christi wakes me up to check me. 7cm. So she turns up the pitocin some more. Christi leaves the hospital for a meeting and Midwife Lauren takes over. Christi makes me promise that I'll wait to have the baby until she gets back around 8:30.
8pm Lauren wakes me up and checks me. 10cm and I'm ready to push!!!!! Family came in to wish me good luck as Lauren gets the room ready for our adventure.
8:20 Christi isn't back, but she's been called. My mom and Brady helped hold my legs for the pushing my Brady's mom is in the background ready to take pictures. Lauren is ready to help get this baby girl out.
8:30 I am able to feel the contractions and when I need to push, I am also able to feel where I need to push at. I was telling them when I was going to push not the other way around. I start talking about wanting to try natural again next time as long as I don't have back labor.
8:44pm SHE's HERE!!!! Full head of hair. I got to help catch her. She is absolutely beautiful!
8:48pm Brady cuts the umbilical cord, Kenzie reaches up and hold his finger as he does this. Very sweet moment for everyone.
8:50pm Christi runs in the door yelling "did I make it?". She is still in her street clothes. poor girl!
9pm The umbilical cord breaks from the placenta before it's delivered. Very odd.
Turns out the umbilical cord was attached more to the amniotic sac than the placenta. Had anyone seen this on an ultrasound, they wouldn't have let me deliver vaginally. I would have been rushed to get a c-section. But Kenzie was born perfectly fine and facing the correct way. Only a few stitches were placed, and recover hasn't been bad at all.
Kenzie Rose McDaniel
Weight: 6lbs 8oz
Length: 18 1/4inches long
Eyes: blue
Hair: black
She has her mommy's nose and her daddy's toes.
When we got home, Brady spoke up and told me to call and move the induction up since there wasn't really a reason to wait any longer. Thankfully, they had a bed available for the following evening. Which would mean I could have Kenzie on Friday(my 23rd birthday). At this point, I was just relieved to hear she would be coming sooner than later.
Thursday morning came, and I repacked my bags since we'd be staying an extra night. I caught up on laundry, and cleaned the kitchen and bathrooms. My mind wasn't on any one task though, so I'm not thinking I was very thorough. I'm sure my mother in law got a kick out of watching me walk in circles around the house trying to remember what I had in my hand and what I came to this room for. :-)
It's now 4:15pm and we have to be at the hospital at 5pm. We get everything loaded in the car. I go to sit down on the passenger side of the car and the entire front of my pants rip in two. I seriously thought my water had broke. We all got a good laugh which I really needed since I was tense. So we finally make it to the hospital and get our room. Things are good. The midwife Jan came in and inserted the Cervidil. She said this would help get my body ready for contractions and so that I would be able to dilate when they started the pitocin the following morning. She also mentioned that for a very small amount of women, the Cervidil can start labor and bring contractions. They kept me on the monitors to watch the baby's heart beat and see if any contractions would start.
9:30pm Brady brings me Chick-fil-a for dinner. The nurse won't let me off the monitors to try and get Kenzie to flip on her own. She was following hospital protocol but my midwife would have let me.
10:30pm Contractions start and are strong enough that I'm using breathing techniques to get through them. They are about 2 mins apart.
11:30pm Midwife Jan comes in and asks me why I hadn't spoke up about having painful contractions. My reply was something along the lines of, "Isn't this why I'm here, so that I can go into labor?!?" She then removed the cervidil(which normally needs 12 hours to work) and gave me a little bit of pain meds so I could sleep through the night since we would be having a long day on Friday.
5am I am at 3cm. I was able to get about 4 hours of sleep. Contractions are still 2 mins apart and are getting stronger.
7am Midwife Christi comes in to check on me. Says things are looking great, we won't need any pitocin!
12pm contractions are CRAZY STRONG!!!! Back labor is horrendous! Midwife Christi suggests I use the yoga ball to help with the back labor and try and get Miss Kenzie to flip. I end up throwing up my dinner at this point since the back pain is so strong. I say something like "I'm done, I just want to go home now. I don't want to do this anymore."
1pm Christi now suggested that I try and use the bed and have Brady help put counter pressure on my lower back to help with the pain and Kenzie may have an easier time turning. (I am currently on no medicines)
1:30pm Kenzie is still facing the wrong way. And I'm at 6cm. I'm not able to breath through the contractions anymore. It's more of a yelling moan sound that is coming out. I'm crying and no one knows how to help me. My back is the only thing that hurts... I can't even feel the true contractions, just back labor. At this point my contractions are about 30 seconds apart, lasting between 60- 90 seconds long. I know I said some things I shouldn't at this point because I was mad that I didn't get any breaks in between to relax.
2pm Christi is now suggesting that I truly consider getting an epidural because I'm so tense that I'm not dilating anymore and Kenzie can't turn since I'm so tense.
2:05 The anesthesiologist walks through the door. I tell him that he's my hero.
2:15 BLISS!!!!! Christi tries to break my water since I have so much amniotic fluid. She thinks this will help the contractions get stronger. She also thinks that having the epi will allow me to relax enough that Kenzie can turn and get engaged.
3:30 Contractions have stopped almost completely. Christi is now forced to give me pitocin to make the contractions come back.
5pm Christi wakes me up to check me. 7cm. So she turns up the pitocin some more. Christi leaves the hospital for a meeting and Midwife Lauren takes over. Christi makes me promise that I'll wait to have the baby until she gets back around 8:30.
8pm Lauren wakes me up and checks me. 10cm and I'm ready to push!!!!! Family came in to wish me good luck as Lauren gets the room ready for our adventure.
8:20 Christi isn't back, but she's been called. My mom and Brady helped hold my legs for the pushing my Brady's mom is in the background ready to take pictures. Lauren is ready to help get this baby girl out.
8:30 I am able to feel the contractions and when I need to push, I am also able to feel where I need to push at. I was telling them when I was going to push not the other way around. I start talking about wanting to try natural again next time as long as I don't have back labor.
8:44pm SHE's HERE!!!! Full head of hair. I got to help catch her. She is absolutely beautiful!
8:48pm Brady cuts the umbilical cord, Kenzie reaches up and hold his finger as he does this. Very sweet moment for everyone.
8:50pm Christi runs in the door yelling "did I make it?". She is still in her street clothes. poor girl!
9pm The umbilical cord breaks from the placenta before it's delivered. Very odd.
Turns out the umbilical cord was attached more to the amniotic sac than the placenta. Had anyone seen this on an ultrasound, they wouldn't have let me deliver vaginally. I would have been rushed to get a c-section. But Kenzie was born perfectly fine and facing the correct way. Only a few stitches were placed, and recover hasn't been bad at all.
Kenzie Rose McDaniel
Weight: 6lbs 8oz
Length: 18 1/4inches long
Eyes: blue
Hair: black
She has her mommy's nose and her daddy's toes.
Monday, May 23, 2011
Kenzie Rose McDaniel
After 21 hours in labor, she has finally arrived! Kenzie was born on May 20th (my bday) at 8:44pm. For being 41weeks and 0days, she was a whopping 6lbs and 8oz. We love her to death already!! She is the perfect little girl. She has her daddy wrapped around her tiny little fingers. It doesn't matter how mad she is, if she hears his voice, she will immediately stop crying and try to find him. It's the cutest thing ever. Plus she looks just like him too! All I've heard is that she has my nose and eyebrows. lol
My brother in law made her a website he is putting some of the pictures on. I apologize that the video on the bottom of the website makes it look like I don't care about my new baby, but I had just endured 23 hours of no food and I was STARVING!!! Plus, it was my birthday too!!!! Birth story coming soon!
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Eviction Notice
Ok We give up!!!! When the midwife recommends you get an induction because she doesn't think the baby is going to come on her own... it's time! Apparently my daughter is stubborn enough that she won't get into the correct position long enough for me to even dilate. It's definitely not the route we wanted to take, but at least I'll have a baby soon. Turns out Thursday night we will check in the hospital to be prepped. And then on May 20th (my 23rd birthday) they will start the pitocin. Hopefully she will be out that day, which means... Mommy and Kenzie will share a birthday. I've been totally against it for so long, but now I just want to be holding her.
I'm up late again right now because she won't stop moving. She's too big now and it's pretty painful. She only ever gets this active when I am laying down. NOT COOL! I really, really want and at this point, NEED to sleep. I can't wait for this to be all over with! I promise to update again as soon as I can. It may have to wait until I'm home for the hospital though.
I'm up late again right now because she won't stop moving. She's too big now and it's pretty painful. She only ever gets this active when I am laying down. NOT COOL! I really, really want and at this point, NEED to sleep. I can't wait for this to be all over with! I promise to update again as soon as I can. It may have to wait until I'm home for the hospital though.
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
belly video
This is what Kenzie does ALL NIGHT LONG these days. You'd think she'd give up and get out. She's about to receive an eviction notice!
283 days
283 days of being pregnant. I'm convinced that I'll be pregnant forever. Apparently my daughter doesn't want to meet me as much as I want to meet her. No I haven't had ANY contractions, and no I don't sleep much at night. Yes I've been trying to do things to naturally induce. Yes my legs are going to be extremely toned by the end of this bc of the amount of miles I've walked and lunges I've done. No I don't want to hear about your child birth story today. Yes I'd love for you to help get my mind off of waiting.
Things not to say to a pregnant woman at 36 weeks or more...(this is not meant to make anyone feel horrible, I promise... just a little preggo humor/venting)
"Wow you look like your about to pop" (Grrr....)
"She's going to come out any day now" (I've been hearing it for 3 weeks now, still not here.)
"Are you ready?" (no, I'm just holding my legs together cause I don't want to meet her yet)
"How do you feel?" (do you really want to know, or are you being polite?")
"Are you sleeping much?" (no, not really at all)
"You should try______ to induce. It works every time!" ( maybe, maybe not. You don't think I haven't been googling 'natural ways to induce' during my free time?!?!)
"You're waddle is so cute" (no comment)
"She's going to come tomorrow, I just know it!" (epic FAIL!!!! still no baby)
"Well, you look great" (but I don't feel like it)
"Maybe you got your dates wrong" (no but thanks anyways)
"Your shirt's too small" (thanks for noticing)
"Now when is your due date?" (3 days ago... thanks for reminding me)
"You'll forget all about this part later." (I understand that, but I can't forget it right now)
"I only gained (insert rediculous number here) pounds when I was pregnant"
"How's your cervix?" (Look stranger- I don't know you and I don't want to get that personal with you)
"Mine kid came 3 weeks early" (good for you!)
"She's still not here?" or "You still haven't had that baby yet?" (does it look like I'm still pregnant?)
"when are you going to induce?" (when it's medically necessary)
"You're going to NEED an epidural. You're crazy for turning it down. (thanks a lot for being so supportive!)
And last but not least-
"I've determined you're going to carry her as long as an elephant does. Did you know their gestational period is 2 years?!?" (Sir, I know we're at church, but I'm about to punch you if you don't walk away right now!)*** yes this really happened on Sunday.
Things not to say to a pregnant woman at 36 weeks or more...(this is not meant to make anyone feel horrible, I promise... just a little preggo humor/venting)
"Wow you look like your about to pop" (Grrr....)
"She's going to come out any day now" (I've been hearing it for 3 weeks now, still not here.)
"Are you ready?" (no, I'm just holding my legs together cause I don't want to meet her yet)
"How do you feel?" (do you really want to know, or are you being polite?")
"Are you sleeping much?" (no, not really at all)
"You should try______ to induce. It works every time!" ( maybe, maybe not. You don't think I haven't been googling 'natural ways to induce' during my free time?!?!)
"You're waddle is so cute" (no comment)
"She's going to come tomorrow, I just know it!" (epic FAIL!!!! still no baby)
"Well, you look great" (but I don't feel like it)
"Maybe you got your dates wrong" (no but thanks anyways)
"Your shirt's too small" (thanks for noticing)
"Now when is your due date?" (3 days ago... thanks for reminding me)
"You'll forget all about this part later." (I understand that, but I can't forget it right now)
"I only gained (insert rediculous number here) pounds when I was pregnant"
"How's your cervix?" (Look stranger- I don't know you and I don't want to get that personal with you)
"Mine kid came 3 weeks early" (good for you!)
"She's still not here?" or "You still haven't had that baby yet?" (does it look like I'm still pregnant?)
"when are you going to induce?" (when it's medically necessary)
"You're going to NEED an epidural. You're crazy for turning it down. (thanks a lot for being so supportive!)
And last but not least-
"I've determined you're going to carry her as long as an elephant does. Did you know their gestational period is 2 years?!?" (Sir, I know we're at church, but I'm about to punch you if you don't walk away right now!)*** yes this really happened on Sunday.
Saturday, May 14, 2011
Due date- came and went
Still no baby girl to cuddle with. It's interesting to hear how bold people get when suggesting ways to induce. Right now, I'm just doing a lot of walking and lunges. I've tried a few other things, too. I haven't had even one contraction in several weeks. Apparently I have a very strong willed little girl on my hands. I promise I will try and keep you guys posted as she starts showing signs of coming out!
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Waiting sucks...
Sunday marked the first (and hopefully only) Mother's Day I had to face without my daughter. Yes I did cry a little. At church, they had the baby dedication. I was pretty jealous of all the mom's that have their kids in their arms already. I can't believe she's due in 3 days! Time has passed so quickly these last 9 months, but now the passing minutes feel like hours. Her nursery is mostly done. There are still a few things that haven't been hung on the wall, but it'll come. I officially packed our hospital bags on Monday (yes I am a procrastinator). I haven't had any contractions this past week, but I've had a lot of back pain. I'm pretty convinced she's going to stay inside her nice warm home forever! Miss Priss is still moving front to back- faces the wrong direction as soon as I get up from a laying down position. I think that she thinks it's a game. She's quite the kicker, and loves to push on my ribs. Monkey girl takes after her daddy! I do have a midwife appointment today at 2pm. I've done everything I can think of to stay active and naturally induce. (except eating/drinking things like caster oil- I'm just not ready to go that extreme yet) I've NEVER washed our white Civic since we bought it 3 years ago, but this week, I hand washed it, vacuumed it and scrubbed a bunch of stains out of it. Plus installed the carseat, the nosy mommy mirror, and the sun shade. I've been making Brady go with me on walks at the mall, dog park, walmart... he isn't too fond of it though. And still NO contractions! Not even one this week.
On a funny note- both of Kenzie's grandma's have bags that are packed and in the car too! They both live about an hour or so away from the hospital, so they have to be ready at a moments notice. :-) My mom loves to cut people off on the phone when I call right now, "Can you hold on a sec? My daughter is due to have a baby any day now, let me make sure this isn't an emergency." She's too funny! Brady's mom has been coming to town everyday since Eddie works in town and takes the car with him. She doesn't want to miss out on Kenzie's arrival. I think I should dub our house the "hub" or "basecamp" until she's about a year old when things calm down again. lol
In other news, Brady threw out his neck around 5am on Tuesday morning. Great timing! So now neither of us are sleeping and both want massages and are both grumpy. The McDaniel household is a happy place right now. Oh well.
***** As for important info for you guys- I am delivering at St Lukes Baptist Hospital in the Medical Center. Here is the website with directions. http://www.baptisthealthsystem.com/directions.aspx. As long as everything goes smoothly, we should only be staying one night. Parking is $1 per hour, just so you know. There are 3 floors I could be on, so you'll just have to call before you come visit or ask at the front desk. It may be more convenient to wait until we get home to visit since the hospital is pretty far from most people, plus our room is supposed to be extremely small. (like only fits 4 people in it) We shall see.
On a funny note- both of Kenzie's grandma's have bags that are packed and in the car too! They both live about an hour or so away from the hospital, so they have to be ready at a moments notice. :-) My mom loves to cut people off on the phone when I call right now, "Can you hold on a sec? My daughter is due to have a baby any day now, let me make sure this isn't an emergency." She's too funny! Brady's mom has been coming to town everyday since Eddie works in town and takes the car with him. She doesn't want to miss out on Kenzie's arrival. I think I should dub our house the "hub" or "basecamp" until she's about a year old when things calm down again. lol
In other news, Brady threw out his neck around 5am on Tuesday morning. Great timing! So now neither of us are sleeping and both want massages and are both grumpy. The McDaniel household is a happy place right now. Oh well.
***** As for important info for you guys- I am delivering at St Lukes Baptist Hospital in the Medical Center. Here is the website with directions. http://www.baptisthealthsystem.com/directions.aspx. As long as everything goes smoothly, we should only be staying one night. Parking is $1 per hour, just so you know. There are 3 floors I could be on, so you'll just have to call before you come visit or ask at the front desk. It may be more convenient to wait until we get home to visit since the hospital is pretty far from most people, plus our room is supposed to be extremely small. (like only fits 4 people in it) We shall see.
Friday, April 29, 2011
38 weeks Pregnant
I can't believe Kenzie is almost here. Time seems to have flown by this year. Though lately, each day seems to drag on and on and on. Yesterday was my last day at work. It was bittersweet knowing it'll hopefully be years before I return to the classroom. I am very blessed to be able to stay at home with my kids.
As for updates, Kenzie has not dropped nor does she like to stay in one place. During the day she likes to be "sunnyside up" or face towards my belly button, and at night she turns her back to my belly button. The midwifes have not "checked" me yet. Once we have more signs that the time is near, they will check. Until then, I will continue to waddle my way through life. Brady came home last week and found me in the rocking chair in Kenzie's room. He asked what I was doing and all I said was "waiting". He thought for a moment and asked what I was waiting for, and my replay was "waiting for my daughter to come home." All he could do was laugh. I know it's pathetic, but I'm so ready to hold her. To see whos nose she's going to have, what color eyes she'll have, if she has hair that I can put bows in or if I'll have to resort to headbands instead. And of course if she'll have gorilla arms like her father does! :-) (Love you, Brady)
Anyways, here are the long awaited photos of the belly. Two weeks left until D-day. Keep praying I don't go over my due date. The midwives won't induce until 2 weeks after the due date.
As for updates, Kenzie has not dropped nor does she like to stay in one place. During the day she likes to be "sunnyside up" or face towards my belly button, and at night she turns her back to my belly button. The midwifes have not "checked" me yet. Once we have more signs that the time is near, they will check. Until then, I will continue to waddle my way through life. Brady came home last week and found me in the rocking chair in Kenzie's room. He asked what I was doing and all I said was "waiting". He thought for a moment and asked what I was waiting for, and my replay was "waiting for my daughter to come home." All he could do was laugh. I know it's pathetic, but I'm so ready to hold her. To see whos nose she's going to have, what color eyes she'll have, if she has hair that I can put bows in or if I'll have to resort to headbands instead. And of course if she'll have gorilla arms like her father does! :-) (Love you, Brady)
Anyways, here are the long awaited photos of the belly. Two weeks left until D-day. Keep praying I don't go over my due date. The midwives won't induce until 2 weeks after the due date.
37 weeks and 5 days
38 weeks
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
In loving memory...
In loving memory of my dainty, cute feet.
I have only one pair of shoes that fit my feet anymore. Everything else either leaves deep impressions(which makes the swelling worse) or just won't allow me to squeeze my feet into. It's very, very sad.
Before pregnancy feet
(mine are on the left)
During Pregnancy Feet
apparently my right foot/ankle tends to swell worse than the left.
CANKLES- YUCK
As you can see, even the tops of my feet are pretty swollen. No more cute shoes until I deflate.
Sunday, April 24, 2011
Happy Anniversary
Two years ago today, I married my best friend. God has truly blessed our marriage in ways I never expected. I love Brady more now than I did the day we got married. In the beginning, people would tell us that the first year is the hardest. If that is true, then the next 50 years should be a breeze! So far, being married to Brady has been easy and lots of fun! (minus the whole living with a guy part- since we all know men can do some weird and/or gross things in his own home) Don't get me wrong, we do still have our arguments and life isn't always rainbows and bunnies.(we are still human) But we have God on our side!
This past year we have...
*celebrated our anniversary by going to an adult "prom"- April
*got another dog, Lexy, because I started talking about babies- April
*renovated our front yard- May
*I turned 22- May
*Brady turned 28- June
*I quit my job as a dental assistant- June
*I spent a week at a camp for kids in the foster care system in San Antonio (royal family kids camp)- June
*traveled to Maryland/DC to visit Brady's sister's family and my brother who is a marine- July
*started working at our church's Mothers Day Out program. I'm a two year old teacher- August
*found out we are pregnant- September
*dealt with first trimester. Brady did amazing! -Sept-Nov
*It's a GIRL!!!! -December
*decided on a name for our little princess "Kenzie Rose McDaniel"-February
*took a couples childbirth class (4 weeks long) Brady now knows how take naps while I'm in labor-March
And now it's April 24th and I'm 2 weeks and 5 days away from our due date. We have no plans for Easter/anniversary and I no longer have ankles.
This past year we have...
*celebrated our anniversary by going to an adult "prom"- April
*got another dog, Lexy, because I started talking about babies- April
*renovated our front yard- May
*I turned 22- May
*Brady turned 28- June
*I quit my job as a dental assistant- June
*I spent a week at a camp for kids in the foster care system in San Antonio (royal family kids camp)- June
*traveled to Maryland/DC to visit Brady's sister's family and my brother who is a marine- July
*started working at our church's Mothers Day Out program. I'm a two year old teacher- August
*found out we are pregnant- September
*dealt with first trimester. Brady did amazing! -Sept-Nov
*It's a GIRL!!!! -December
*decided on a name for our little princess "Kenzie Rose McDaniel"-February
*took a couples childbirth class (4 weeks long) Brady now knows how take naps while I'm in labor-March
And now it's April 24th and I'm 2 weeks and 5 days away from our due date. We have no plans for Easter/anniversary and I no longer have ankles.
Friday, April 15, 2011
4 weeks left
Disclaimer: If you are looking for a happy blog... this is not the post for you.
Today is Friday and that means I have exactly 28 days until my due date. Or 672 hours left- Which ever way you want to look at it. Neither seem to sound like the time is going to fly by any faster. I will NOT pray for patience though. God will probably choose to allow Kenzie to stay cozy for an extra 2 weeks, and that just cannot happen. I want to cry just thinking about it.
So here is the update.
1. I waddle everywhere I go. I have two speeds- penguin waddle(to only be used when rushing to the bathroom), and turtle waddle (used all the other times).
2. Kenzie is still head down with her feet in my ribs. My midwife says she's already really low, but I haven't had an internal exam yet, so I have nothing to report on that issue. She is currently "sunny side up" (facing the wrong direction) though. I'm doing some stretches to encourage her to turn her back towards my belly.
3. I am having really bad sciatic nerve pain. Nothing seems to help except for sitting around and doing nothing all day. (which is impossible when you work with 2 year olds) This will probably get better if miss Kenzie will turn around.
4. We graduated our childbirth class- so brady hopefully listened and learned a few things. :-) He says he would be able to deliver her at home, as long as someone can bring him hot water. I asked what the hot water was for... and he said "I don't know but it's what they always yell in the movies." Thank you Lord for cell phones to call 911. I'm not sure I'd survive it were up to my husband.
5. As for the nursery, things are looking great. I'm still waiting for Brady to make the shelf that will go in the closet, and the wall shelf that will hang above the changing table.
6. I have yet to pack my hospital bag, but I have several lists made of things that need to be packed.
Hmm.... what else has been going on?
7.Don't let any dentists read this- I'm obsessed with eating ice!!!! It's absolutely amazing and delicious!!!! I know how horrible it is for my teeth, but I don't really care.
8. My new crocs came in last week. They help with the back pain. They are very comfy, but I'd still like to get a pedicure. :-)
9. Our yard is a work in progress. I hope it will be looking better by Monday so I can plant some of the veggies and herbs that we bought several weeks ago. 10. Brady's buisness is going very well these days. He currently has 2 employees, and will probably hire another one by summer. God is truly providing.
11. Sorry I have to write this, but I'm ready for my daughter to be out of my ribs, and in my arms!!! I had a very easy pregnancy, and have loved most of it, but I'm ready to have some control over my body again. Plus I really want to meet Kenzie. Brady's mom and grandmother are visiting my sister-in-law and her family right now. They don't get back from Maryland until April 26th. I love them dearly, but I'm not sure I want to wait for them to get back to get this show on the road! Going to the due date seems highly over rated. lol
12. My moods are turning bipolar by the day.... keep Brady in your prayers. Most of the time I feel like I'm in a "funk" I guess you could call it. I feel like I have no life these days. All I ever do is sit on the couch in an empty house. I don't know when the last time I went out for fun with someone other than Brady. I know there isn't a lot I can do these days, but I'd still like to try. Ok enough of my moody "funk".
PS: Kenzie is currently 5 1/2 lbs as of 4/12/11.
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
starting to look more like a nursery
Kenzie is going to be one of the most spoiled little girls around!!!!!
Glyniss(MIL) brought over a few of the bedding set items the other day... and it's AMAZING!!!!
So here are a few pictures of what we have so far.
Item #1 The Changing Table Pad- complete with a flower on top of the velcro strap.
Glyniss(MIL) brought over a few of the bedding set items the other day... and it's AMAZING!!!!
So here are a few pictures of what we have so far.
Item #1 The Changing Table Pad- complete with a flower on top of the velcro strap.
Item #2 The Important Items Holder (I'm not creative in naming things, sorry)-- Little pockets lining the front, some big, some small... perfect for things like the booger bulb, butt paste, lotion and anything else I can't think of, but will need on a daily basis. I reminds me of the advent calenders you see around Christmas time. (mine had a mouse that would move in the middle of the night and would have a candy present waiting for me when I got up in the morning.)
Item #3 The Diaper Stacker-- OH MY GOSH!!!!!!!! Inspiration was "I'm a sucker for ruffles on the butt." said by me of course. I think I'm going to have Glyniss make some pants with the ruffles all the way down the leg for Kenzie to wear. This just happens to be my single favorite item in the whole nursery!
And the last is something I created. I am not a seamstress, nor do I have a mind that can come up with original crafts, but I do try, sometimes. So here goes...
Item #4 Clothes Dividers for the closet- Kenzie has lots and lots of clothes and I'm trying to come up with a way of keeping them organized. I found some colorful foam and I used the acrylic paint we had left over from the wall stamps, and went to work.
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Nursery Updates
I have an AMAZING mother in law!!!!! Glyniss came over and helped me stamp the bugs on Kenzie's walls. It turned out so stinkin cute!!! Now I need to start hanging stuff on the walls. Only 56 more days until she is due to arrive. I can't believe how quick time is flying by!
 |
| the bugs are the colors of her bedding material. |
Monday, March 14, 2011
8.5 weeks to go
Today I had a midwife appointment. Everything is looking great. I'm currently 31 1/2 weeks pregnant, and Miss Kenzie is head down and feet in my lungs. Now we just have to wait. I'm feeling great these days. I have more energy than I thought I would. Sleep is a different story. Some nights are better than others, but it's getting harder for me to find a comfortable position. Poor Brady deals with my random screams in the night whenever I get a leg cramp- he usually thinks I'm in labor. He's getting good at helping pull my toes towards my leg so the cramp will go away though.
As for other random updates:
*I have my first shower in Houston this weekend. I'm very excited to see all the "girls" in my family!!!
*Also, I prepaid for the hospital stay today. The man helping me said I have good timing because a few weeks from now, the hospital bill goes up $1000. Luckily, I've already signed the contract and am ready to go. God is good!!!!!!
*Tonight is our 2nd Childbirth class. It's very educational. Brady wasn't too thrilled with some of the video's content. :-) He also fell asleep during the breathing exercises last week. I guess the relaxation techniques worked.
*And finally I'm on SPRING BREAK!!!!! It's my first spring break since high school, and I'm 8.5 weeks away from having a baby. My options are limited. I will, however, stamp the walls in Kenzie's room on Wednesday. Glyniss (my MIL) will be coming over to help me that day. Hopefully we can get it all done.
As for other random updates:
*I have my first shower in Houston this weekend. I'm very excited to see all the "girls" in my family!!!
*Also, I prepaid for the hospital stay today. The man helping me said I have good timing because a few weeks from now, the hospital bill goes up $1000. Luckily, I've already signed the contract and am ready to go. God is good!!!!!!
*Tonight is our 2nd Childbirth class. It's very educational. Brady wasn't too thrilled with some of the video's content. :-) He also fell asleep during the breathing exercises last week. I guess the relaxation techniques worked.
*And finally I'm on SPRING BREAK!!!!! It's my first spring break since high school, and I'm 8.5 weeks away from having a baby. My options are limited. I will, however, stamp the walls in Kenzie's room on Wednesday. Glyniss (my MIL) will be coming over to help me that day. Hopefully we can get it all done.
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Updates with lots of pictures
So here we go.... 3 weeks ago, my dear friend and bridesmaid, Natalie had her baby girl. Madison Joy Powers. She is so stinkin cute... I can't wait for Kenzie and Madi to be friends!!! Here is a picture of Brady with Madi the day after she was born.
Then we skip down to Kenzie's room. I know I promised pictures awhile back, but the phone quality doesn't do it justice.
First coat of paint.
Allie(the beagle) is freaking out cause brady is using the saw in the house! She's such a mama's girl! :-) Brady is cutting the chair rails.
Cute lamp found at Hobby Lobby, and the chair rail is up now!
Stamps that I will do above the chair rail. Yes they are Bugs!!
Miss K's carseat came in yesterday. Bad picture, I know! Thank you Nanny for providing a safe place for Kenzie while she's in the car! I think she's going to like the pink!
Brady has been on a baking kick for the past few weeks- here are a few of his creations.
Truffles
Apple Pie with a crumple top. MY FAVORITE DESSERT EVER!!!!
And finally a week 28 belly picture
Friday, February 11, 2011
Story Time
Wow, I can't believe how fast time is flying by! When we first found out we were pregnant, my thought was "It's all good, we have just under a year to prepare." And now I have 13 weeks to go until I meet my "mini me". She is constantly letting me know she's in there. You can see her move these days. In fact, last night we were sitting at the dining room table and she started kicking the right side of my rib cage. You could see my ribs moving. Very weird, and very alien-like! She's almost 2lbs and is measuring around 14".
This week one of my good friends Natalie had her baby girl, Madison. We went to the hospital the day after she was born to visit. What a shock!!! It finally hit me that 3 months from now that will be me in the bed and other people holding my little girl. I'm sure every soon to be mom goes through these moments as the day nears, but this time it's me. I know I'm probably being a little emotional, but at least it's better than the angry mood swings that been kicking in lately. (poor Brady- pray for him. He may need some counseling after this is over) Last weekend, we went to McKinney Falls with Brandon and Tammy (bro and sis-in-laws). We've done this before, and ususally Brandon brings his camera and we take a leisurely stroll in between photo ops. So, of course, I agreed to go. When we got there, we walked around, and Brandon never took out his camera. Then they asked if we'd like to go on a trail. (i'm still thinking he's got the camera in his backpack and thats why he wants to go for a walk. Duh! to take pictures!) Well, needless to say- I didn't see the 2.8 mile warning sign, nor did I ever see a camera. I wanted to just lay down and die by the first mile. The animals need to eat too, right? I felt bad for making the trip such a drag for everyone. Every 20 feet, I'd have to stop and take a breather. Braxton Hicks contractions started kicking in about halfway through the trail. (I'm totally not ready for labor and delivery) Plus I was drinking a lot of water and of course there is no Valero with a bathroom in the middle of this trail. I almost didn't make it, but then we saw cars through the brush. My pace quickened. I'm going to survive! We kept walking, thinking the end of the trail is near, but it wasn't. Not by a long shot. When we finally did make it out, but we still had another 3/4 of a mile to walk back to the car. Not cool! A few cars drove by and I milked the poor, exhausted, "I'm having a contraction face" pregnant woman look. No one stopped to offer me a ride back. **by the way- if you EVER see that face, and I do mean EVER, you better STOP and offer that woman a ride to China if it's going to make her happy!** Where was I, oh yes, I'm not going to any state parks until at least September. :-)
On that note, I am thankful my midwife called in a antibiotic for my allergies that have turned into a sinus infection. :-) I have that nasty cough again- and nothing makes it better. Hopefully the antibiotics will help.
This week one of my good friends Natalie had her baby girl, Madison. We went to the hospital the day after she was born to visit. What a shock!!! It finally hit me that 3 months from now that will be me in the bed and other people holding my little girl. I'm sure every soon to be mom goes through these moments as the day nears, but this time it's me. I know I'm probably being a little emotional, but at least it's better than the angry mood swings that been kicking in lately. (poor Brady- pray for him. He may need some counseling after this is over) Last weekend, we went to McKinney Falls with Brandon and Tammy (bro and sis-in-laws). We've done this before, and ususally Brandon brings his camera and we take a leisurely stroll in between photo ops. So, of course, I agreed to go. When we got there, we walked around, and Brandon never took out his camera. Then they asked if we'd like to go on a trail. (i'm still thinking he's got the camera in his backpack and thats why he wants to go for a walk. Duh! to take pictures!) Well, needless to say- I didn't see the 2.8 mile warning sign, nor did I ever see a camera. I wanted to just lay down and die by the first mile. The animals need to eat too, right? I felt bad for making the trip such a drag for everyone. Every 20 feet, I'd have to stop and take a breather. Braxton Hicks contractions started kicking in about halfway through the trail. (I'm totally not ready for labor and delivery) Plus I was drinking a lot of water and of course there is no Valero with a bathroom in the middle of this trail. I almost didn't make it, but then we saw cars through the brush. My pace quickened. I'm going to survive! We kept walking, thinking the end of the trail is near, but it wasn't. Not by a long shot. When we finally did make it out, but we still had another 3/4 of a mile to walk back to the car. Not cool! A few cars drove by and I milked the poor, exhausted, "I'm having a contraction face" pregnant woman look. No one stopped to offer me a ride back. **by the way- if you EVER see that face, and I do mean EVER, you better STOP and offer that woman a ride to China if it's going to make her happy!** Where was I, oh yes, I'm not going to any state parks until at least September. :-)
On that note, I am thankful my midwife called in a antibiotic for my allergies that have turned into a sinus infection. :-) I have that nasty cough again- and nothing makes it better. Hopefully the antibiotics will help.
Monday, February 7, 2011
registry link
Ok I have pretty much finished with the registry, I think. I'm sure I'll end up leaving vital items off of it. I also know I've add things I don't need, but I want, or think I want. Oh well, Live and Learn, right? Anyways, you can find it at the link at the bottom. Gift cards are welcome too! :-)
http://www.toysrus.com/registry/myregistry/index.jsp?overrideStore=TRUS&_flowExecutionKey=_c2AC3EF75-C58C-1DA4-5948-E3FCACF6F87E_kCFF4F065-9DB5-24F2-6825-FCE85FCB4222
http://www.toysrus.com/registry/myregistry/index.jsp?overrideStore=TRUS&_flowExecutionKey=_c2AC3EF75-C58C-1DA4-5948-E3FCACF6F87E_kCFF4F065-9DB5-24F2-6825-FCE85FCB4222
Monday, January 31, 2011
Stage 1 of Nursery
COMPLETE!
For the past two days my slaves (mom and Brady) have helped me paint Kenzie's room. It looks fabulous!!! Brady is ready for me to get lazy again. He doesn't like me adding things to his list of "to do's". I will be posting pictures sometime this week. The chair rails still have to be cut and put up so I will wait until then to post the pictures. The bottom of the room is a pinkish-purple or berry color with silver glitter in it and the top is white. Looks super cute!
As for energy- I'm out of it! Completely exhausted! Like I don't even want to take a shower and scrub the paint off myself. (which is by no means easy since I can't even paint my own toenails these days- but i am 25 weeks pregnant) I could fall asleep right here, right now. I don't think my boss would appreciate me showing up to work with paint all over my body and on top of my head. Oh well, I guess I must take my second shower for the day.
For the past two days my slaves (mom and Brady) have helped me paint Kenzie's room. It looks fabulous!!! Brady is ready for me to get lazy again. He doesn't like me adding things to his list of "to do's". I will be posting pictures sometime this week. The chair rails still have to be cut and put up so I will wait until then to post the pictures. The bottom of the room is a pinkish-purple or berry color with silver glitter in it and the top is white. Looks super cute!
As for energy- I'm out of it! Completely exhausted! Like I don't even want to take a shower and scrub the paint off myself. (which is by no means easy since I can't even paint my own toenails these days- but i am 25 weeks pregnant) I could fall asleep right here, right now. I don't think my boss would appreciate me showing up to work with paint all over my body and on top of my head. Oh well, I guess I must take my second shower for the day.
Thursday, January 27, 2011
material for the crib
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
I miss
I miss my waist.
I put on a cute dress this morning, and I realized that I no longer have one.
The dress looked more like a tent.
I also miss belts- not that I have any, but I kinda wanted to wear one today.
I think I've hit my first nesting phase. This week all I want to do is clean and organize. We've sold a few items in our house, and now I want to start working on the nursery. My dad's parents are coming in town this weekend and my mom, my memaw and I will start painting on Sunday. I'm so excited! I just hope I'm able to clean my feet in the shower when I step in paint. I have no idea what color we're going with yet, but I'll post updated pictures. :-)
I put on a cute dress this morning, and I realized that I no longer have one.
The dress looked more like a tent.
I also miss belts- not that I have any, but I kinda wanted to wear one today.
I think I've hit my first nesting phase. This week all I want to do is clean and organize. We've sold a few items in our house, and now I want to start working on the nursery. My dad's parents are coming in town this weekend and my mom, my memaw and I will start painting on Sunday. I'm so excited! I just hope I'm able to clean my feet in the shower when I step in paint. I have no idea what color we're going with yet, but I'll post updated pictures. :-)
Friday, January 21, 2011
REGISTRY HELP
Ok Mommas, it's your turn to chime in. Let me know about products that you loved, hated, never used, or even wished you had invested in with your little one.(who may or may not be so little anymore) Any and all advice is welcomed. Just don't be offended if it doesn't get used. :-) Good advice I've heard recently is getting cloth diapers to use as burp rags; putting down an absorbing pad under the baby when she's in the crib- that way if she leaks, so that I don't have to change the sheets every time; and you can never have too many blankets. Let me know if you think of anything. Please share your stories, I love to hear them!
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Kenzie's first video @ 23weeks
Kenzie at 23weeks and 3 days. I love this girl!!!!
Special thanks to Jackie and David McGinnis who helped me convert the DVD the midwives gave me into files I could post on the blog.
Photo 1- My little angel is about to punch me right here. Ah, motherhood! And yes that is her foot in the top left corner. She had just taken it out of her mouth.
Photo 2- Again with the foot. That little stinker!
And here is what she and I look like from the outside.
Kenzie @ week 19
I completely forgot to scan and post the pictures from the previous Ultrasound when we found out Kenzie was a girl. Sorry for the delay!
Photo 1- mouth open and she's got her left hand on her forehead.
Photo 2- teeny, tiny feet
Photo 3- About to start sucking her thumb.
Photo 4- The proof that Kenzie is a Kenzie and not a Kennith! :-)
Friday, January 7, 2011
It's been awhile
Sorry for the lack of postings over the past month. Life is finally back on a routine. Christmas was fantastic. Kenzie has several new outfits. :-) It was nice getting to spend some time with our families. My cousin Jake proposed to his girlfriend of many year, Michelle, on Christmas Eve. We are excited to have another addition the family.
As for Mommy to be and Kenzie- I have a little more energy these days. I only nap on the days I work- which is pretty normal for 2 year old teachers. :-) I don't eat all the groceries the second day I buy them. Though I've cut back on my eating, it doesn't get any easier to see my feet. :-) I am now 22 weeks pregnant and waddle. Kenzie is about 1lbs and about 10 inches long. Only 123 days until she is due.
Miss Kenzie is pretty active. I carry her very, very low most of the time- which makes bending over a little difficult because she doesn't like being squished. This week she started getting hiccups. Pretty weird feeling. She gets them about 3 times a day right now. Everything I've read says that it's a good sign. Her lungs are now being used and getting stronger. Right now I'm a little under the weather. I think it's allergies, but I'm not sure. I have sinus issues and a very scratchy throat. Benadryl and Tylenol are my friends. *Gets a little personal here- I went to get a bra fitting done on Wednesday at Motherhood. I won't tell you what they said but some of the items I walked out with had an E at the end! I wanted to cry!!!!!! And I'm not done getting big yet. Sad, sad day. I will try to post a picture of the material we picked out for Kenzie's crib bedding later. My MIL, Glyniss, is making all of her bedding. I'm very excited!!!!
Miss Kenzie is pretty active. I carry her very, very low most of the time- which makes bending over a little difficult because she doesn't like being squished. This week she started getting hiccups. Pretty weird feeling. She gets them about 3 times a day right now. Everything I've read says that it's a good sign. Her lungs are now being used and getting stronger. Right now I'm a little under the weather. I think it's allergies, but I'm not sure. I have sinus issues and a very scratchy throat. Benadryl and Tylenol are my friends. *Gets a little personal here- I went to get a bra fitting done on Wednesday at Motherhood. I won't tell you what they said but some of the items I walked out with had an E at the end! I wanted to cry!!!!!! And I'm not done getting big yet. Sad, sad day. I will try to post a picture of the material we picked out for Kenzie's crib bedding later. My MIL, Glyniss, is making all of her bedding. I'm very excited!!!!
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