Bellies and the Week Without Daddy

This past week, Nathan was in CA on business and to be a groomsman in a good friend's wedding. While he was gone, Luke and I kept the home fires burning so to speak. Acutally, we were not home much at all. Thanks to the kindness of friends and family, we only ate dinner by ourselves 3 of the 7 nights Nathan was away. Thanks to everyone for the help- especially Aunt Bethany!

Last week was tough on Luke emotionally. I didn't realize how much he missed Nathan until we got him back again. Last night he was bubbly and happy and sooo excited to talk to and hug him.
It was tough on me as well, being pregnant. I took a nap everyday and was still really spent by the end of the day. I also felt faint at least a couple of times each day and was a little worried about that.
Today, I had a Dr.'s appt. The Dr. visit went really well and Luke was still in such good spirits that he was a very good boy all the way through the hour or so at the office. Whew! I am now seeing each of the midwives (there are 4) for a second time. I just keep thinking how lucky I am to have them.

Everything checked out as normal and the baby's heartbeat was nice and strong. About the feeling faint, they said that it was relatively normal, especially with extra work at home and encouraged me to keep resting and eating well. Today I felt strong all day.

Here are some pictures from today at 23 and 1/2 weeks along:


Luke wanted you all to see his belly too:

7 Days and Only ONE Accident! and other news

First, I must admit that I am pretty proud of my little man. Today is the seventh day of wearing big boy underwear! In all this time, he has only once had an accident. That means that I haven't had to change a diaper in a long time. :)

In other news, baby #2 continues to be nice and active. We are still at a loss for names, though we still have time. I like a few names, but am not in love with anything yet.

Today, I registered at Baby's R Us, mostly because they have a promotion where they give you a gift card just for registering. I kept thinking how GLAD I was that we don't have to buy everything all over again! And I am thankful that I have a few great consignment shops here in Houston. I kind of think that having a baby has become much like getting married- it keeps overpriced stores/vendors in business.

Luke turns two-and-a-half today. Today was also probably one of the most difficult days I have experienced as a mom. Between tantrums, hitting, kicking, and generally being exhausted from disciplining said behaviors, I am totally spent. I also have the constant nagging question about if I could have handled things better. Probably.

But, at the end of the day, good, bad, or otherwise, I am very glad to have Luke. When he is sweet, I am blessed to share those moments with him and look upon his shining little face with joy. When he is silly, he teaches me to keep a light heart. When he is a terror, I am blessed because he teaches me to be better. He teaches me to have patience and show mercy.

Here his is with his bug hat :)