tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16133412239048727572024-02-19T19:28:37.034-05:00me & j... the everdayChristie Bellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10131377798582160855noreply@blogger.comBlogger386125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1613341223904872757.post-90244473172043054942014-04-02T14:15:00.000-04:002014-05-15T14:17:19.320-04:00Things I Want to RememberI cannot believe our boys are 8 weeks old now! What!?! We have their 2 month check-up tomorrow! I'm so anxious to see their exact weights, they have grown so much! I don't have much time these days and am writing this on my iPad while reaching around baby heads on my tandem nursing pillow, but there are things I want to remember about this time, so I'm going to jot down a few while the boys take a quick nap after fueling up.<br />
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-Noah's smile after he nurses. He pulls back, relaxes, and smiles..he loves to eat and be full. He is a pleasant baby when his belly is full.<br />
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-Hunter is the king of fuss. He is colicky and is paying me back for being the same way at his age! I am looking forward to the end of this part, because the few times a day that he is happy, he is so sweet. He is a studier, he loves looking around and watching faces and he loves the outdoors and sunshine in his face. He finds the sun, and just closes his eyes, it's sweet:). This is the reason he has obtained the nickname "the doctor"..as in Dr. Jeckyll/Mr. Hyde..I know, we're terrible.<br />
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-Noah is a yeller! He doesn't really cry much, but when something is wrong (usually it's because he's "hangry"), he hollers...like screams in your face, followed by at least three coughs, and accompanied by not a single tear. I think he's going to have the temper. We fondly call him "the dictator". :)<br />
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-Hunter is the happiest when he's nursing, he actually uses me as a paci more than to actually eat, but it's hard to tell which he is needing..it's all a learning process.<br />
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-Both boys rolled over from tummy to back at three weeks, within 5 minutes of each other! They haven't done it again since then, but it was so neat that they did it that close together. And so the competition begins!<br />
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-They both somewhat chuckle in their sleep but not consciously yet, oh how I wonder what they could possibly be dreaming of.<br />
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-Noah especially likes being naked now that it's warmer, he gets so wide eyed and just kicks and is generally happy, I can see a lot of diapers only days this summer!<br />
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-Hunter's favorite way to sleep is sideways across the front of me, turned in towards me, with a paci..I think it goes back to feeling like he's nursing.<br />
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-Noah's favorite sleeping position is up and down, facing towards me, and he likes to ball up just like he did in the womb, he's stretching out a little more often now, but he still defaults to the potato bug position.<br />
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-Hunter is a very quiet sleeper and sleeps with his mouth open a lot.<br />
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-Noah snores sometimes, it's so cute, he sleeps much lighter than Hunter and startles easily.<br />
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-Hunter likes music. Sometimes it will calm him down, he also likes "dancing" to faster songs..I think it's probably because it feels like rocking or bouncing.<br />
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-Both boys LOVE water! Bath time is their favorite time of day. It's an instant calming tool. Getting out and being lotioned up, however, commences the crying and shouts of disapproval. We will be getting a baby pool for the summer.</div>
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-We are struggling with trying to get them on the same sleep schedule at night. They are both babies who wake up immediately if not being held, which is hard when sleep is needed for the adults. Their growth spurts (or when they are hungrier, and more often) happen on different days, which means while one may have been able to sleep for 4 hours straight at night, he is awakened at the 1 1/2 - 2 hour mark by his brother. We are also facing troubles co-sleeping. They did really well with that for a few weeks, and I was hopeful that we had figured something out, but now, both no longer want their brother next to them, and they both want to be on the side next to me. Scratching my head on this dilemma, I'm needing sleep. They no longer nap at the same time either. Boo.</div>
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-Both are ticklish, especially on their backs, sides, and feet. Right now, they squirm, I can't wait until they giggle!</div>
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-Noah does well with car rides, he usually falls asleep and rides peacefully. Hunter is not on board yet, he screams most everywhere we go.</div>
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-Noah's baby hair is reddish, but I think as it's thinning/falling out and the new comes in, it's looking more white blonde like his dad's. The red matches his temper though.</div>
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-Hunter's baby hair is brown, but also looks like it has a little red in it in the sun, like mine does. His new growth is coming in as a darker blonde. I'm excited to see what their colors will be once they're done changing.</div>
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I look forward to new things to come, I know they change and grow so fast, I just don't want to forget a thing!Christie Bellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10131377798582160855noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1613341223904872757.post-23280436855460101682014-03-19T08:50:00.000-04:002014-03-19T08:50:44.765-04:00Our Miracles Are Here!<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
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<span style="color: #0b5394; font-size: large;"><b>Aren't they beautiful!?!?</b></span></div>
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Our boys made their arrival! 6 weeks early, but healthy and hefty! Hunter was 6 lbs. 5 oz., and Noah was 5 lbs. 4 oz. Hefty for 34 week twins, anyways:) They turned 6 weeks old this past Monday, so this is super late, but life has been quite a wild ride lately! Not much time, and lots of adjusting! They only had to spend a week in NICU for monitoring, and helping with their eating, as well as getting their blood sugars up, so we were very blessed with healthy boys! I am typing this out really quickly as they take a short morning nap before we start getting ready for my 6 week post-op appointment today. Doesn't seem real! Hunter broke my water on February 3, shortly after 6 am. My doctor, who was thankfully on call that morning, took them by c-section, as planned, and Hunter was born at 7:22 am, and Noah at 7:24 am. I am thankful we planned on c-section, as Noah's cord was wrapped around his neck twice. God's hand was in all of this, and I will write the whole story soon. But for now, we have two beautiful baby boys, and we couldn't be happier. Well maybe if we were getting some sleep;o)</div>
Christie Bellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10131377798582160855noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1613341223904872757.post-28761406800748128622013-12-10T22:52:00.002-05:002013-12-10T22:52:56.273-05:00Our Baby Shower!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Our shower was incredibly beautiful! We were so blessed, and surrounded by so many loved ones, helping us celebrate our baby boys. My sisters did such a wonderful job, I have never seen a baby shower so breathtaking! They did a vintage Christmas theme, and the food was amazing! Such a spread! We had a hot beverage bar w/ all kinds of mix-ins, a galvanized bucket full of iced drinks, chocolate dipped pretzel rods, a variety of finger sandwiches, sausage balls, a buckeye cheese ball (which is like a peanut butter ball in dip form!!) with all sorts of goodies to dip in it, cupcakes, chex mix, and puppy chow...a variety of chips and three different types of dips! And I'm still not sure I listed everything! It was outta this world! We also have amazing friends that came early to help out, Megan, Ashley, Jennifer, and Renea all showed up to help however needed, and I appreciate them so much! My mom worked her tail off getting the house ready, cleaned, and decorated for Christmas too. I can't say thank you to all of these special women enough. They pulled off a perfect shower. And now, for some pictures!</div>
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Directing Guests:</div>
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The beautiful back patio:</div>
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Come on in!</div>
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The drinks and mix-ins bar:</div>
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The elf name game (there were a lot of good ones...mine was Sparkle Jingle Bells, the funniest being Foxy Glitter Bottom!)</div>
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What a display!</div>
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Mom's Christmas Candy Shop:</div>
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The hot drinks:</div>
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There were lanterns and candles all over, the whole house was so cozy.</div>
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The main food table:</div>
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SO MUCH FOOD!</div>
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Chips and Dips:</div>
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Presents!!!</div>
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Three of the lovely ladies who pulled it all off, my Ashwee, Megan, and Ashley A.</div>
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A few of the sweet guests:</div>
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Jason's Aunt Crystal:</div>
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Jason's Great Aunt Pearl, his Dad's cousin, Ann, and his Aunt Debbie:</div>
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One of the lovely hostesses, Alaina was behind the camera the whole time!</div>
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My bee-you-tee-ful Momma:</div>
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My sweetie had everyone cracking up, of course!</div>
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Helper Renea:</div>
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This is not even half the guests or the stuff we got, things and people were flooded through the rest of the house, and we received gifts through the mail from those who couldn't make it. We have been "showered" with many of the things we needed. My parents bought us the Cadillacs of car seats, and Jason's dad bought us the crib(s), so those were both big ticket items that we were very grateful to receive! We also got swings, a bouncer, a twin stroller, adorable clothes, a special train set, gift cards and money to fill in what we still need, the twins Willow Tree figurines, books, and an assortment of all other kinds of baby goodies! We are pretty well prepared for these little fellas to get here in only a few months! I think the shower sent me into nesting mode, I am loving getting everything together, washing their little clothes and blankies in the yummy smelling Dreft, setting up the crib (they are sharing for a little while), etc. I can't say thank you enough to everyone involved in pulling this off, and everyone who came..we love you all!</div>
Christie Bellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10131377798582160855noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1613341223904872757.post-73235061664730019422013-11-28T13:32:00.000-05:002013-11-29T22:36:10.729-05:00Happy Thanksgiving!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
So very much to be thankful for this year! We are beyond blessed. We are all moved home and getting settled in. It's so nice being back home with our family, and spending Thanksgiving with everyone after having to miss it last year! The boys and I are excited for all the good food this time of the year brings:) Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!</div>
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A couple of update pictures:</div>
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Woah, Babies!</div>
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<br />Christie Bellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10131377798582160855noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1613341223904872757.post-20806741916702601482013-11-02T19:19:00.000-04:002013-11-02T19:20:39.619-04:00A Bit Late!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
We found out two weeks ago what we're having, but with moving coming next week, pulling stuff off walls, appointments, tons of phone calls, and trying to sort out what we have to take home and what TMO is going to pack up, blogging got sidelined. And thank goodness TMO is back up and running, so we don't have to move it all by ourselves, I can't imagine how scrambled I would be then! So, here is our 20 week update and what we are looking forward to having...</div>
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Yay for sweet boys! We are so excited to welcome these little guys at the first of the year, Noah Wayne and Hunter Ray! I am feeling them more, and stronger these days. Twice now, I've been able to feel them with my hand, Jason has yet to catch them yet, and he's so anxious to! They are supposed to weigh around a pound each now, how cool is that!? Our appointment on the 15th was wonderful, they both were very active and a little stubborn. They didn't want to sit still for their measurements and pictures. We go back Monday (I'll actually be 21 weeks tomorrow!), and we will get to see them again, I hope whoever we get in with in Winston Salem will be as good as the doctors in Wilmington have been, I will really miss them! But, man, I am ready to be home with our family again!</div>
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Just some notes I want to remember about this stage of pregnancy:</div>
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-I am starting to feel the results of the added weight in the front, it doesn't take much for my back to just wear out. I see one of those multiples support straps in my near future. Other than that, and still getting tired pretty easily, I feel pretty good, and am just so thankful that the boys are doing so well, growing, and letting me know more and more of their presence. I am still amazed at these precious miracles, and feel beyond blessed! </div>
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-There are many a night that I wake up, and all I can think of is having an apple and glass of milk, so that's what we have:) I'm loving avocados, and due to the price and the fact that I am horrible at picking good ones, I can't get my fill! Pickles are still delish. And chocolate has made it's way back onto my favorites list. For a long time, I had no desire for sweets, but that's come back a little bit, specifically cupcakes and Twix bars. I have to limit these, of course, but they are so good! </div>
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-I am finding it harder to maneuver in bed now. I have to sleep slightly propped up, and rolling over is a chore. My hips hurt, and using about 5 pillows in different positions is helpful, yet doesn't help the maneuvering issue! </div>
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-My feet disappeared a while ago, and I can no longer breath when putting on socks/shoes. My husband and family think this is funny. My feet/ankles have started swelling some when I'm on them a lot or when we travel.</div>
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-My husband is amazing. I get a foot rub/back massage almost every day, and there are never any complaints (well almost never) when a craving hits and he's heading to the store at all different times of the day or night. Plus, he won't argue, he gives in almost immediately (I think he's afraid of tears or rage..not sure which one), he's my peacekeeper.</div>
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-Buying baby clothes is so much fun! They have come a long way with boy clothes since I bought for my sweet nephew. Plus, it is fun buying some matching things, and other things that just coordinate. I've had to reign it in for now until we get through this transition and J gets a new job (several prospects, praying for the right one to present itself!).</div>
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-I'm one of those <i>fortunate</i> women whose face gets round with pregnancy. I resemble a pregnant chipmunk.</div>
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Okay, I'm wrapping up for now. I probably won't post until after we're moved. I can't believe that in 8 short days, we will be completely moved home! </div>
Christie Bellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10131377798582160855noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1613341223904872757.post-82331418878285033602013-10-10T15:33:00.000-04:002013-10-10T15:33:23.734-04:00Change...and lots of it!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
It's funny how life can completely change in the span of one day. We were fully counting on Jason extending his military contract to stay in until after the twins are born. That's not happening now. His extension didn't get approved, and as of December 1, we will be considered "civilians" again. We are scrambling. I am slightly panicking. We have to get our house moved, figure out what we want to do with the house, figure out job security, insurance (especially with twins coming soon!), and so on, so forth. In the middle of all of this, there are so many things that we are so thankful for.</div>
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<li>We have an amazing family who have already jumped into action planning, and helping. We are able to move in with my Daddy & Momma until we get through this transition, get a job, and are able to find something to live in. They are all jumping to figure out how to move us, and help in many ways since I'm not as spry as normal;o)</li>
<li>Our babies are moving a good bit now, and I'm able to feel little flutters and bumps throughout the day. They are constantly reminding me that they are still my joy through this!</li>
<li>TMO. They are the moving company for the military. They will come in and pack everything as well as move it. Ashley and Matt have so graciously let us use their large basement to store everything until we get another place, thus saving us a good bit on storage fees.</li>
<li>An amazing support system, including family, friends, and a wonderful church family who are praying us through this, and putting their feelers out for job opportunities for J.</li>
<li>The fact that Momma will be here Monday, and that Tuesday we will be going in to find out the genders of the twins! We are all so excited!</li>
<li>And, more than anything, that our God is SO good, and always faithful. In my moments of insecurity, panic, or confusion, He is always there. We have felt in so many ways, that this was God closing the door on J's military career. We have been on the fence about it, and both of our hearts' desires are to be back home.</li>
<li>With a few health scares through the pregnancy, it is comforting to think that we will be near our support soon, making it easier for them to get to us, and close by for when the babies come!</li>
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As scary as this new season in our lives is, we feel God in every part of it. There's still a lot that we don't know, but we know that God has a plan for us, and we are trusting in that.</div>
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Last week, in Walmart of all places, I decided to pass out. Well, not really decided, my body kinda forced it on me. Luckily, I had the foresight to get to the floor, and also J was with me. I had a seizure, and woke up throwing up (this is a horrifying experience, let me tell ya, throwing up in public has always been a big fear of mine, I've decided that I will probably never show my face at that particular Walmart again). After a long night in the ER, I was sent home with instructions to rest, and that this sometimes happens. Geez. But, the babies are fine, and I got an unplanned visit from Ashley. After lots of rest, and some major blood sugar monitoring (they went nuts afterwards, thanks in part to the fact that the ER staff didn't give me any of my night time meds despite asking for them), I am on the mend health wise. I'm still trying to overcome a lot of anxiety when I go anywhere, and we've decided it's not a good idea for me to go anywhere alone.</div>
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With all of this to say, I'm not doing a 2 week chalkboard update this week. I'd rather stretch it to 3 weeks and do the next one when we know the genders:) But, I wanted to post a few pictures of baby related happiness.</div>
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Jason came home from work a few weeks ago with a present. I love presents. This one made me so happy! A Willow Tree to celebrate our miracles, and an owl tea-light holder. Did I mention I love presents? Especially ones like these. He knows me really well.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_BvFfY8aP-qOedADhAc2m5Fbx-bHnN0k3G2DsgBqQ_Ub4IwYiriknp6ilJKOlzBtYWZz-nXr6aik7PXTFspcrdiJpOb7X7KSXNxJmbFq8vWCCSaHCieYCvQ6R6jjtHULPXaIr5ze-ahN2/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_BvFfY8aP-qOedADhAc2m5Fbx-bHnN0k3G2DsgBqQ_Ub4IwYiriknp6ilJKOlzBtYWZz-nXr6aik7PXTFspcrdiJpOb7X7KSXNxJmbFq8vWCCSaHCieYCvQ6R6jjtHULPXaIr5ze-ahN2/s640/1.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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I can't see my feet anymore. It happened so fast, but with them being between 4.5-5 inches each crown to rump, plus all of their "baggage", I can't say I was too surprised.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTAMU6gBt-gEkDWTNT9ORM8SFiA03rHCru_f05vyFvvaud8AmnXydUZI2SQ_WmWBhyphenhyphen-V2zWLHIcm1E2SAgNtcxE-RkS-GNPyTk-IxSfN0-BO90FkEvbnVsJAWSxqAomTUZ4KB6yemwJPMS/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="456" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTAMU6gBt-gEkDWTNT9ORM8SFiA03rHCru_f05vyFvvaud8AmnXydUZI2SQ_WmWBhyphenhyphen-V2zWLHIcm1E2SAgNtcxE-RkS-GNPyTk-IxSfN0-BO90FkEvbnVsJAWSxqAomTUZ4KB6yemwJPMS/s640/2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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And a profile shot. They have moved up over the past 2 weeks, and I'm carrying higher now, and they have pulled to the front a lot more. I can tell too. Heartburn is so much fun. I'm also thankful for Zantac. Especially since I still love pickles, and they give me heartburn.</div>
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As I wrap this up, we are asking for all the prayers we can get. We covet them, and would appreciate them more than we could ever express. Thank you for checking in with me today, be back soon with our exciting reveal (praying they both cooperate)!</div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-small;"><span class="text Jer-29-11" id="en-NIV-19647"><span class="versenum" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;">11 </span>For I know the plans<span class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-19647A" title="See cross-reference A">A</a>)"></span> I have for you,” declares the <span class="small-caps" style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span>, “plans to prosper<span class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-19647B" title="See cross-reference B">B</a>)"></span> you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.<span class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-19647C" title="See cross-reference C">C</a>)"></span></span> <span class="text Jer-29-12" id="en-NIV-19648"><span class="versenum" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;">12 </span>Then you will call<span class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-19648D" title="See cross-reference D">D</a>)"></span> on me and come and pray<span class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-19648E" title="See cross-reference E">E</a>)"></span> to me, and I will listen<span class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-19648F" title="See cross-reference F">F</a>)"></span> to you.</span> <span class="text Jer-29-13" id="en-NIV-19649"><span class="versenum" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;">13 </span>You will seek<span class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-19649G" title="See cross-reference G">G</a>)"></span> me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.</span></span></div>
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Christie Bellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10131377798582160855noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1613341223904872757.post-28835722210785851722013-09-24T17:06:00.000-04:002013-09-24T17:08:01.139-04:0015 Weeks<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
1 week away from the 4 month mark! We are so excited! I'm feeling pretty good other than the hormonal headaches that the doctor warned me about. Apparently hormones drop a little between now and week 20, causing a lot of women to have headaches. Treating with Tylenol is not always a sure fix, so I'm thankful for ice packs! And I'm thankful that our freezer got fixed today to keep me supplied with ice packs! It's been broken for 3 weeks, and they had to order parts and wait for all the warranty stuff, and then fix it, we were glad to see that man pull up this morning!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitZWGwMRTvbBHqUT7D5YNmzSsPtjWsawRswmcn1DyuwFXfjwK3ZsazMZiASW2-I3dkYMAFfTkptjqLuP_XQumus3-7-LFBSHPIofWT5zogXNWEFc2Q3-H5w1_2Y0xjzxdLLnDTigAybAV5/s1600/DSC_0062.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitZWGwMRTvbBHqUT7D5YNmzSsPtjWsawRswmcn1DyuwFXfjwK3ZsazMZiASW2-I3dkYMAFfTkptjqLuP_XQumus3-7-LFBSHPIofWT5zogXNWEFc2Q3-H5w1_2Y0xjzxdLLnDTigAybAV5/s640/DSC_0062.JPG" width="424" /></a></div>
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Oh, and it is officially FALL!!! I am LOVING the cooler temps, and the even chillier ones at night! We are seeing a little yellowing on some the of trees, I always get so excited at this time of year. Plus, the first signs of fall are in the stores, too! Hello Honeycrisp apples & Pumpkin Spice creamer! We saw pumpkins at Wally World yesterday too, looking forward to loading up on those pretty orange gourds this weekend:)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFbL04gvGHKV-HMk-JXxOIu0LfMjOx-q5vr9eiL_XR8SOnfQjoxqeSxGyjcVhieBl62a6BRZpMLHU5xc9ZXnMmG1KXkISJCFW2c2AN_Ijt1Ov9JsyHXDBUs7DpqsWeP2n6FQ52YpZAoad3/s1600/7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFbL04gvGHKV-HMk-JXxOIu0LfMjOx-q5vr9eiL_XR8SOnfQjoxqeSxGyjcVhieBl62a6BRZpMLHU5xc9ZXnMmG1KXkISJCFW2c2AN_Ijt1Ov9JsyHXDBUs7DpqsWeP2n6FQ52YpZAoad3/s640/7.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Target has some really fun wigs for Halloween this year. We had a good laugh trying them on and taking pictures. There were a lot of fun ones, but here are a few of my favorites!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbVWpbIutoYLIYnbAep6hMRZP99lNlDLDKYxExIDZiK4Nnbm-xgcfM9iqsKdqe5eqNYEqSb16BqJswHtEa50iDwGrRDgadubXosoyOy9Y0GjGYpcZtFut0ArttITDb15bUQ6EOq6-KXkFd/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbVWpbIutoYLIYnbAep6hMRZP99lNlDLDKYxExIDZiK4Nnbm-xgcfM9iqsKdqe5eqNYEqSb16BqJswHtEa50iDwGrRDgadubXosoyOy9Y0GjGYpcZtFut0ArttITDb15bUQ6EOq6-KXkFd/s640/1.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL5ScOZHAuVK9oO7jL1lhxoltcCyMs0-f8TaKniDMlcnOCJU1M8eIcztQCaUWJRjlBbPrY40DjvsXyAFEiZagdPPXkMi4rwi5_Cr9cn9EEL99KBDsrzLN-rvhE576mZD-HIsV8UdZFOM08/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL5ScOZHAuVK9oO7jL1lhxoltcCyMs0-f8TaKniDMlcnOCJU1M8eIcztQCaUWJRjlBbPrY40DjvsXyAFEiZagdPPXkMi4rwi5_Cr9cn9EEL99KBDsrzLN-rvhE576mZD-HIsV8UdZFOM08/s640/4.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqT6pH4DuX4KCBHHbbb-tp3Vb4eEb1Ocaw2rt4UQBt4XMmBUj-AwK9Wgf25R1ywzedSuO2gcDrQq9iZbmQgSRhrpi-U6V3uCXLf7OYEEt4ggj3Vktx52RxRgO-BFJb5K7fMx9vZWFqBRkQ/s1600/5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqT6pH4DuX4KCBHHbbb-tp3Vb4eEb1Ocaw2rt4UQBt4XMmBUj-AwK9Wgf25R1ywzedSuO2gcDrQq9iZbmQgSRhrpi-U6V3uCXLf7OYEEt4ggj3Vktx52RxRgO-BFJb5K7fMx9vZWFqBRkQ/s640/5.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Happy Fall Y'all!</span></b></div>
Christie Bellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10131377798582160855noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1613341223904872757.post-68226726758075854752013-09-17T10:34:00.000-04:002013-09-18T15:41:21.473-04:00Second Trimester!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
So, I missed week 12. My plan was to do every two weeks, but week 12 was chaos! Jason's parents were down visiting, and his dad had a massive heart attack while here. We are thankful that he is okay, and that he had such good doctors and paramedics that saved his life. He had a major blockage, and had to have a stint put in. The heart attack damaged 55% of his heart, but it is recoverable. He started having major chest and arm pain in the middle of the night, so I called for help. Thankfully, he actually had the heart attack in the ambulance, and they were able to save him. God was looking out for him for sure. But, all that to say, we were back and forth at the hospital in Wilmington every day, and by the time we would get home, I was totally wiped out. The week before that, we had a scare with some bleeding. We were really shaken, but beyond thankful that everything was fine with our precious babies. The doctors think that since I've stretched out so quickly, that I may have popped a blood vessel or that my cervix got bruised, and caused some build up of blood in the bruise. All foreign to me, but the most important words were that the babies are just fine! We are praying that we won't have any more scares like that! I am taking it easy, and when my body says stop, I do!</div>
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Anyways, here is the most recent chalkboard update. I am actually over 14 weeks now, and will do another chalkboard in the next week or two. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVUTsoRO3ltT6mh_zPmaOd42MHZuciTcoj7wRbua2BiJUG4Qa-9_gHn_HhyMmig0bVdbGHJhlYwPvNZ9DNKNt5rpQJlNLDSvO5PAhdvxQp_58VRDFK0Ag6levHMsVsPaim-921R5p72Cct/s1600/DSC_0015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVUTsoRO3ltT6mh_zPmaOd42MHZuciTcoj7wRbua2BiJUG4Qa-9_gHn_HhyMmig0bVdbGHJhlYwPvNZ9DNKNt5rpQJlNLDSvO5PAhdvxQp_58VRDFK0Ag6levHMsVsPaim-921R5p72Cct/s640/DSC_0015.JPG" width="456" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">We did this one last week, and I am just getting it posted since we had our family down to celebrate Alaina's 18th birthday this weekend! Ashley and Austin hung back a few extra days, and are still here with us while Matt is traveling for business. Saturday night we rode into Beaufort and ate at the Dock House. The weather was perfect, the view was amazing. It's located right on the waterway, so we enjoyed views of yachts, sail boats, and a few kayaks. The cool pre-autumn breeze was even a bit chilly, which to a woman carrying twins was refreshing! We ate out on the upper deck, so we could see a ways down the water, and the lights across it where beautiful once it got dark. We walked the boardwalk afterwards, and made a stop at the fudge factory for some yummy dessert. It was a really fun time with everyone, and we all left </span><strike style="text-align: justify;">uncomfortably</strike><span style="text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="text-align: justify;">happily stuffed.</span></div>
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Now that we are in our second trimester, we are no longer being seen by our infertility specialist, and we have moved to our regular ob-gyn. We also get seen by a maternal-fetal medicine specialist for the high risk part of it (diabetes, twins). Both appointments, we were really pleased with the doctors, and the staffs. Everyone was really nice, and we got another ultrasound at our maternal-fetal appointment yesterday. Both little ones looked good, and were active, moving, kicking and punching. In one picture, one of them had their arms behind it's head, lounging. In another shot, it already looks like they may have Jason's pouty lips. It's so neat how they can see all of that with ultrasound. We go back October 15 (less than a month!), and that's when we find out their sexes! I'm so excited about that one. We will be a little over 18 weeks by then. They did all my organ function labs as well as a thyroid check, so that we will have a base line to go by, and right now, everything looks really good and normal:) They will be monitoring my BP since it was a little higher than I normally run, and just making sure they stay on top of any early warning signs of preeclampsia. I really feel like they have a good handle on things, and that God has placed us in the right offices.<br />
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In other news, we are less than a week away from the first day of fall! We are feeling some cooler temps in the evenings and early mornings, and it's getting me so excited! I can't wait to wear boots. I keep holding off, but probably not for much longer. To wrap up, I have to say how very thankful I am for my family and friends. For my parents who rushed to be with us at a moment's notice when we didn't know what was happening with our scare and helped calm us down, and brought in a voice of reason, a daddy who makes his famous homemade vanilla milkshakes and a momma who dries my hair, for Alaina who stayed behind and took care of things at their house so they could be here with us. For Ashley who has helped pick up the slack around the house this week because I've been so tired, by cleaning, doing laundry, and even making our bed, it was really nice to come home yesterday evening to a clean, peaceful house with candles lit, smelling like fall. For the most wonderful friends who have been continually praying for us through everything, and calling/texting to check on me, and for a neighbor who came to sit with me when I was nervous in the days following our hospital visit, mowed our yard while we were back and forth visiting J's dad in the hospital, and has let us take up most of her freezer space since ours died. Again. In the midst of everything going on. God has given us an amazing support system, and a bountiful supply of love. We are so blessed.</div>
Christie Bellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10131377798582160855noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1613341223904872757.post-42512571320665441532013-08-24T14:23:00.003-04:002013-08-24T14:23:46.007-04:00These twins ain't wastin' time!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
We found out that we were expecting early, only a little over 4 weeks pregnant! And, from then on, these two have not wasted any time making their presence known! I never thought I'd show SO early, but I guess with double everything, the rules don't apply! At week 6, I already had a little pooch but didn't know there were two yet, I just chalked it up to the bloat everyone talks about...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl6DrG1Iy2dbNJHwrFqwl4ldyO1eOoXn-wANN9GK62FlePaQmKSqZNiZhyphenhyphenLnwK5haxJBcBcKdk1HfZ_jPbMrXMXqbiQyC7C_MXxyknEjg7uRFxXCgQf5ZXn_BHYYDpCugrsZ1zaZuN4l69/s1600/6+weeks.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl6DrG1Iy2dbNJHwrFqwl4ldyO1eOoXn-wANN9GK62FlePaQmKSqZNiZhyphenhyphenLnwK5haxJBcBcKdk1HfZ_jPbMrXMXqbiQyC7C_MXxyknEjg7uRFxXCgQf5ZXn_BHYYDpCugrsZ1zaZuN4l69/s640/6+weeks.JPG" width="456" /></a></div>
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At week 8, they had popped out and we knew there were two by then! It made a little bit more sense that my stomach was forming a basketball shape...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLKoRE-lVIacE7pfRgZH3nkQhLWD9re61-fetppyuVpjWOsYzjGNs4UVzwWW-Qa2wsj7r1xTo_6exQfzMX6Urp7m07_spUv4WVfb_ySpl2teGWoLNMsS65IAC07nk5Oun6tlXzwBHDCJnX/s1600/8+weeks.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLKoRE-lVIacE7pfRgZH3nkQhLWD9re61-fetppyuVpjWOsYzjGNs4UVzwWW-Qa2wsj7r1xTo_6exQfzMX6Urp7m07_spUv4WVfb_ySpl2teGWoLNMsS65IAC07nk5Oun6tlXzwBHDCJnX/s640/8+weeks.JPG" width="456" /></a></div>
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But, even two weeks later, they were appearing even more! I'm thinking I'm going to be pretty uncomfortable by the third trimester, whattya think?!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFcNWyIqWG2XoUHSTiJuHXOZLSjKMUjyS7DSG57gqXSYa8S8N8UnMK4pNGSRMgqGRNdawftyhURx7QwKF9din_nWItVu2MfdNwkB2Kr5OJHUNlNTQX2vbzcI-zQzuilOclYQXaooRZ-JH-/s1600/10+weeks.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFcNWyIqWG2XoUHSTiJuHXOZLSjKMUjyS7DSG57gqXSYa8S8N8UnMK4pNGSRMgqGRNdawftyhURx7QwKF9din_nWItVu2MfdNwkB2Kr5OJHUNlNTQX2vbzcI-zQzuilOclYQXaooRZ-JH-/s640/10+weeks.JPG" width="482" /></a></div>
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The first trimester has surprisingly gone by pretty quickly. I'm 11 weeks, and am looking forward to the 2nd trimester coming soon! We have another ultrasound Tuesday, and we are excited to get to see our little ones again, and hopefully a little more detail than our first ultrasounds when they were so teeny! They will be the size of figs this week, seems funny to compare them to food, huh? With the first trimester bringing me so much nausea, I think the lack of food that agrees with me has counteracted much weight gain. You'd think with that belly, it would be at least 5 lbs by now;o) My weight gain as of yesterday is 1.8 lbs! Woohoo! I'll be trying to post an updated picture with a few fun facts every two weeks. It's a good picture journal to look back at, and for the babies to see one day. </div>
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We're getting excited for summer winding down, and hopefully cooler temps soon! We're coming up on my favorite time of the year..autumn and winter. I have some cute second trimester fall weather clothes that I can't wait to wear. Only 29 days until the first official day of autumn!</div>
Christie Bellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10131377798582160855noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1613341223904872757.post-36232916819720941112013-08-21T17:47:00.000-04:002013-08-21T17:52:27.797-04:00Our Twins<div style="text-align: justify;">
I have been absent for a while now. Mostly due to the previous post:) I've been quite nauseous, and extremely exhausted most days, and lack the energy to do much with the blog. I haven't gone into detail on here about our journey to becoming pregnant, or our desire to have kids. It's been a very private matter to me, and hard for me to talk about at times. But I want to chronicle this time, and to get the full understanding of what this time means, I feel like I need to give some history, plus, it will be cool for the twins to read someday. So here goes! (Disclaimer: this is a long post!) </div>
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5 years ago, at the end of 2007, after discovering that once I was off of birth control, I had constant, debilitating migraines, and no periods, we knew we were going to need help getting pregnant. We had been married 2 1/2 years when J got back from his first deployment which was 7 months long. We got a referral to an ob-gyn here in town, and they promptly put me on Clomid (an ovulation inducing drug), they did a few tests on both of us, and determined what we pretty much knew. I have PCOS, and don't ovulate on my own, let alone, ever have a period. We prayed the Clomid would work, and it did. My levels were showing that I was now ovulating, and I was having 34-36 day cycles for the first time ever without bc pills. But, the doctors at this particular office didn't take into account that my cycles were longer than a 28 day period, and they just had me on a generic schedule. Turns out, down the road, after getting in with an infertility specialist, they had us trying at the wrong time of the month, and being new to this whole thing, and not really understanding what my body was doing, I had no idea that we were completely missing our window. After 6 months, they gave up on me and sent me somewhere else.</div>
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This is when we got referred to a specialist a few towns over, this guy was legit, and knew what he was talking about. He was worth the hour and fifteen minute drive. After a few month break to give my ovaries a break from the ovulation medicine, and a few more tests, we started with Clomid again. Only a few months later, we found out J was getting deployed. Again. For a year. Big bump in the road. We decided that we didn't want him missing everything if I did get pregnant, and stopped the treatments at the end of 2008. He left in January. Once he got back in December, we waited for awhile. We enjoyed getting to spend time together, take a few trips, and get reacquainted after living apart for a year. Plus, J was on a new schedule while he was working as a combat instructor for the Marines. The schedule was unpredictable, and they told them that our treatments weren't priority and weren't their problem (understanding, aren't they!?) Towards the end of 2010, when he had a year long instructing break where his schedule was a little more flexible, we picked up treatments again. This time, we were pairing the Clomid with IUI's (Intrauterine Insemination). I won't go into detail on this, but if you're curious, you can Google it! It is the procedure before they try IVF. It's less invasive, and much less expensive. The procedures were emotional and stressful. I had a hard time dealing with the fact of what was supposed to be so special between a husband and wife, had become some planned and "clinical". My reproductive body makeup is all set very high, so the procedures were painful and took much longer for me. Usually they take about 10 minutes, mine averaged about 30-60 minutes. I questioned getting help and not letting it happen naturally, but we came to the conclusion that without help, it may certainly never happen (God can do anything, can perform miracles, I truly believe that, but we were worried about my health with the PCOS being out of control, and the migraines not being able to be controlled), and I wasn't ready to accept that. I also felt that if I didn't try, and we never got pregnant, that I would always wonder "what if" and regret it. After another 6 month period, and no positive pregnancy tests, we were both emotionally drained again. We took another break. So at the first of 2013, we had decided to give it one more go. This time, our doc wanted to pair the Clomid with hormone shots. While I was ovulating on Clomid, it wasn't helping me make enough eggs. So, enter Follistim.</div>
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Basically, our schedule looked something like this:</div>
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<b>Days 3-7</b>: Take Clomid </div>
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<b>Days 8-??</b>: Take Follistim shots, going in every 3-5 days for ultrasounds to make sure we weren't getting too many eggs, or that we weren't going to miss ovulation. When we had a few good eggs, we would schedule an IUI for 2 days later, that night I would take another shot called Ovidrel, that would induce ovulation, and that would make it more precise for doing the IUI on time.</div>
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The first month, not knowing how my body would react to Follistim, my eggs got overstimulated. I had about 20 good ones. I was instructed not to do ANYTHING, that the risk of 3 or 4 getting fertilized was too great, and that would be threatening to my health. I was disappointed, but understood. I tried to just be thankful that the shots were working, and be hopeful that we would get the right dose next time. The over-stimulation on my ovaries hurt, I could barely bend over without being in pain. So once I started, they did another ultrasound. The previous month had caused a lot of cysts. The second cycle was canceled, and I was put on low dose bc pills. I felt like we were moving in the wrong direction, and was crushed. I tried so hard to hold it together until I got out of the office. I called my mom and just cried when I got to the car. And then we waited another month. Once the next cycle started, I went back in to check on the cysts. They were gone, and they told me we would go ahead with treatment. Yay! We finally had a good month. The dose was right, and we had a couple of eggs that looked good. We proceeded with an IUI. And, exactly two weeks after, I started. Another month of no. I went through the process. I cried, I wondered why, I prayed, and hoped that everything would be okay to go on with another cycle. I had one cyst, but they said it was dissolving, and decided to go on with another treatment. This month was June 2013. It took longer for the eggs to develop this time, but they watched them closely, and by the time everything was ready, I had 4 large follicles (eggs), and 2 medium ones. They said that was good, and we scheduled the IUI. It was Friday, June 21. It was by far the worst one. It was painful, and they had to try several techniques to get where they needed to be. It took a consulting physician to come in and help. The staff was so professional, and felt so bad, the nurse, Joyce, was by far the best. She calmed me down, and was so reassuring. For a little while, we weren't sure they were going to be able to get it, but about an hour and a half later, they did. I prayed almost the whole time through tears, and questioned that if this month didn't happen, would I be able to do this again. We prayed daily for the next two weeks, that it wouldn't come to that, and that this time it had worked. </div>
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On July 4, I made an impromptu trip home for a few days b/c J got put on a stupid duty schedule where he would be gone for 3 days, and I didn't want to spend the holiday alone. All weekend, I was tired, and crampy. I kept waiting on my period. I was nauseous, but chalked it up to the hormone treatments, because they sometimes made me nauseous. Since my periods have always been so unpredictable, I decided to give it a few days, but that following Monday, July 8, I couldn't wait any longer. I just wanted to know so I could mentally prepare for another month. Austin had come back with me for the week, and J was home early that morning. I went to the bathroom without telling anyone what I was doing. I took the test, set it down, and went to the bedroom and prayed. I waited the 3 minutes, and took a deep breath before going in to check it. I could.not.believe.my.eyes. It was POSITIVE!! I had never seen one of those! I got weak in the knees, I burst into tears (happy tears this time!), and I praised God! I grabbed the test, composed myself, and called J into the bedroom. He came around the corner, and I was standing there with the test, speechless, just crying and nodding yes. We cried together, we hugged and kissed, we thanked the Lord again. We calmed ourselves, and knew we had to tell our family.</div>
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We told my mom first. We facetimed her, and while we were talking, I just held up the test. It was so fun to get to see her reaction. We then three way called my dad. After that, we called Ashley who was on the way to the doctor for an ear/throat infection. She still screamed through her scratchy throat:) Afterwards, we told Austin he was going to be a cousin, and his eyes got as big a golf balls, and about jumped in my lap to hug me. After that, we called J's parents, and his dad couldn't hear us over Teresa's shrieking. We filled in a few close, trusted friends as well.<br />
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Once we got past the first 9 weeks, we decided to announce it publicly. That was so much fun, and we have been shown so much love and support. I had originally wanted to wait until week 12, but with there being two, I am showing early, and it was impossible to hide any longer. I am about 10 1/2 weeks today, and excited about getting close to entering the second trimester! I see my infertility doctor one last time next week for another ultrasound:) A few weeks after that, I will see my new ob-gyn for the first time, and we are praying for an excellent experience. The new doctor is also in the same town as my infertility doctor, which makes me happy, they have a really nice hospital, and really big! Much better than the rinky-dink one we have in our town (that still has shared rooms..I didn't even know they still did that!?). So, that's our story on getting to where we are and being so very thankful that God has blessed us with all of this! I know there are so many women that battle this and struggle with infertility and I grieved many times over, thinking I may never get to experience this miracle. But maybe my story will give someone else going through this hope, sometimes it takes a long time, but then sometimes, after 5 years, you get a yes! So, I will take every nauseous, exhausted day in stride, and continue just being happy that I am going through it, knowing that it means that there are TWO precious lives growing inside me. It's a miracle, and there are still times I am just overcome with emotion at God's grace and His blessings. Thankful doesn't even begin to cover it.</div>
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Christie Bellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10131377798582160855noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1613341223904872757.post-66732125693094375982013-08-11T13:54:00.003-04:002013-08-11T13:54:54.804-04:00Coming March 2014....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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And we couldn't be more excited!!!</div>
Christie Bellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10131377798582160855noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1613341223904872757.post-5612390644521723072013-06-20T09:15:00.000-04:002013-06-20T09:15:18.432-04:00Peonies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Oh how I love the big blooms of peonies. Since we are probably moving at the end of the year, I have hesitated to plant them here. They will be at my next house. So for now, I found these pretty fake ones at the HobLob. They will work for now, especially when they are in this old blue mason quart jar. Pretty good for fakes...</div>
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<br />Christie Bellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10131377798582160855noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1613341223904872757.post-40162562108846139172013-06-18T12:18:00.000-04:002013-06-18T12:18:35.855-04:00Summer Mantle<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
I love switching out the themes on my mantle, but after Thanksgiving, Christmas, Valentine's Day, and Easter, I was looking for something I wouldn't have to change through the summer. This is what I came up with. I am digging it. It's a little coastal, a lot summer, and nice and bright.</div>
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I made the big wooden "flag". I had a few pieces of 1x3 board, and I had J cut them into 2 ft. pieces, I attached them together with the Kreg Jig on the back after staggering them randomly. To paint it, I used some leftover blue and white paint. The white is just an acrylic white paint by Apple Barrel, and the blue was from our dresser update, found <a href="http://cmm3505.blogspot.com/2009/12/dresser-makeover.html" target="_blank">here</a>, it is a Valspar color called Vintage Blue. The metal stars were from a little garland that I pulled off, and spray painted white, then roughed them up to let the metal show through a bit. I hot glued them on with huge globs of glue.</div>
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And to finish, I <em>had</em> to rough up the edges a little, and sealed it with a satin sealer. I accessorized with stuff I already had, milk glass, candle holders, grapevine balls, a fat birdie, candles, and flowers.</div>
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I definitely think it will carry me through summer. Plus, it was perfect for Memorial Day, and for the 4th since it's sorta patriotic. Almost all of my patriotic stuff is now in the office since it's kind of our military themed room.<br />
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<br />Christie Bellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10131377798582160855noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1613341223904872757.post-36028555204636101142013-06-15T08:33:00.001-04:002013-06-15T08:33:58.182-04:00Dresser Salvage<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
I heart free stuff. There was a house down the road (a single mom) who was moving, and to save some of the hassle, she was giving away certain things that they didn't want to move, or didn't fit in the new house. J and I quickly snatched up this small dresser as I had big plans to use it as extra storage in my office/craft space. It was a wooden dresser, unfinished, and in pretty bad shape, but I knew I could do something with it. Two of the drawers were chewed by a dog, and there was no saving them. The knobs were also unfinished wood. I sanded it, painted it with a flat no-so-bright-white paint, stained the top with Rustoleum's Early American stain, and then roughed it up with the sander. I removed the knobs and spray painted them with rubbed bronze spray paint, they turned out really pretty, and it saved me from having to buy 11 new knobs! After painting, I sealed it with a a stain spray sealant.</div>
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For the empty drawer compartments, we used some Gorilla Glue and put in some thin white panels we had laying around from another project to make a shelf for some baskets, in place of the damaged drawers.</div>
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I looked for about a week, when I finally found these at Michael's. I hadn't seen these the first trip, but they were the perfect size and fit nicely. I like the different browns in the baskets, I think it ties the lighter top in with the darker knobs.</div>
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You can't beat free! And the extra storage has been so nice! Plus I have a better place to put my gargantuan printer. The little plastic drawers it was sitting on were giving out. I'm pretty proud of this project, I did (almost) all of it by myself:) Jason helped a little.</div>
Christie Bellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10131377798582160855noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1613341223904872757.post-36460855384039531842013-06-12T08:05:00.000-04:002013-06-12T08:05:00.321-04:00My Summertime Table Box<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
The box that we made last fall needed an update. I wasn't sure what I wanted to do for summer, so this is what I came up with. I used the white candles I had, and stuck glass tube vases in between. Add a few white and yellow daisies, and call it a day.</div>
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I like the brightness of the white and yellow against the dark wood. It's great for the warm months.</div>
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This box is one of my favorite projects ever. It has been so versatile, and it fits our table perfectly.<br />
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I like this centerpiece. Even if I'm not a big fan of the hot summer months. Oh, and please don't look at the dust on the rim of the box. I told you that stupid drywall dust gets everywhere, and I'm not going to dust everything until all the sanding is done. I dusted the table down at least, I just forgot the box. Ooops.</div>
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<br />Christie Bellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10131377798582160855noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1613341223904872757.post-30166143900287514922013-06-11T15:01:00.000-04:002013-06-11T15:01:47.412-04:00Master Bathroom Project<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Oh, what a mess we've made over the past week! About a month and a half ago, I pulled all the batting strips off the walls in the master bath, thinking that would motivate J to do the drywall. I finally convinced him it <strong>had </strong>to be done before our friends come visit on the 20th. Crunch time! He has been working so diligently after work/school, and over last weekend (man, I love him!). As of today, there is only a little sanding left, and then clean up time! You cannot even begin to imagine how much this forces the OCD into overdrive. Even though we have closed it off, the dust still escapes. And it gets.every.where. But the drywall looks fabulous, and I am so excited to get painting. We also got stuff to frame the mirrors and new light fixtures. I'm wanting a light green in here. I think it will look beautiful against the darker wood.</div>
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These are kind of the beginning/before pictures, right after J had put on the first layer of drywall goop (that is my very technical term).</div>
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This corner was difficult. They do not sell 45 degree angle drywall joint pieces. There was much hammering and bending involved, but once again, J didn't fail to impress me. It's looking so good! This is the corner that we are waiting on..it is taking twice the time to dry, so hopefully today will be the last sanding for it. (This picture is right after he put the first coat on..it looks so much better now.)</div>
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Handsome working so hard.</div>
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Ummm..yeah. This is why I'm cringing. I hate this dust. Hate it. I cannot wait to get in there and wipe it all down, sweep it all up, and mop it all away. It looks like a fine, smelly, gritty dusting of snow. I would prefer snow, I think.</div>
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More pictures to come...Christie Bellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10131377798582160855noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1613341223904872757.post-69757478315866202362013-06-10T12:37:00.000-04:002013-06-11T15:01:06.877-04:00Unrelated<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
I have been on a major break from blogging. I think my head is back in it now. I just wasn't feeling it for a while, but I feel like it's time to pick it back up. This post is just a few random pictures I had wanted to blog about, but never got to, so they kind of got mashed into this post together. Random.</div>
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I am kind of obsessed with beauty/hair blogs and YouTube channels. My mom directed me to TiffanyD who has wonderful tutorials. The one I used for this hairstyle is <a href="http://www.makeupbytiffanyd.blogspot.com/2013/02/voluminous-long-lasting-curls-hair.html" target="_blank">here</a>. My hair is shorter than hers, but it still did exactly like she said it would. And the Paul Mitchell Hot Off The Press spray is wonderful. I love it, but it's kinda pricey. I got lucky, and found some at a wholesale place that a friend of mine, that does my hair, has access to since she has her cosmotology license. Much more reasonable price, and that makes me happy.</div>
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I made a new wreath for our front door with some neutral colors since the front door is in direct sunlight for most of the day, my wreaths seem to fade pretty quickly. I used flowers from Hobby Lobby, and hot glued them into an oval grapevine wreath, and painted my last name initial wooden letter (also from Hobby Lobby) with Antique Parchment by Apple Barrel (acrylic paint). It's attached with a cup hook on the back and some floral wire, and a little hot glue so it doesn't move too much. I finished it with a light colored burlap bow.</div>
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Jason made me dinner awhile back (I just came actross this picture and it reminded me to give him some major kudos) on an evening that I was feeling a little blah. Oh man. It was so good. He made bacon wrapped chicken bites with a cream of chicken dipping sauce, chunky mashed potatoes, and spicy green beans. I could have eaten another plate it was so yummy, but I did have a little self control. J is becoming quite the chef. Sometimes his recipes flop, but when they turn out how he envisions them, they rock. Cheesy sausage topped asparagus with toasted crackers was not a hit, but I love that he tries, and that he likes to cook for me. Now his homemade southern mac 'n cheese. That one has a solid place in our recipe book. I am so lucky to be his bride:)</div>
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<br />Christie Bellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10131377798582160855noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1613341223904872757.post-2636583732520748772013-03-27T16:35:00.000-04:002013-03-27T16:35:51.176-04:00These Shoes Were Made for Walkin'...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Lately, I've hit a wall with losing any weight, but I'm pushing on. I'm trying to do what I know I need to do, and remember how much better I feel when I do it. Exercise is hard for me. Really hard. I hate it. Unless it's swimming. And then I love it. But even with our above ground pool, there is only so much you can do in 4 ft. of water, and I don't have a swimming buddy to go with me to the one on base, since my family has declared a no swimming alone policy for me. Well, I think I've hit on something that I can stick with. I'm walking at home with Leslie Sansone. These workouts are actually no joke. Ask Jason..he did one with me over the weekend, and he was for real sweating (and he's a marine who is used to working out!), I felt a bit justified after that. I typically try to do a 3 or 4 mile video for 3 days straight, and then I take a one day break and start again. I've been doing it for a little over 2 weeks, and I don't hate it. I feel better, better blood sugars, and I'm sleeping better. Plus, my back is feeling stronger, and my right foot has stopped hurting me (heel spur or something?). I was able to buy several at Target and Amazon, so switching it up helps too because I'm not doing the same video, watching the same people, and doing the exact same moves every day. I have workouts that are 1-2 mile if I don't have a lot of time, all the way to 5 miles. I'm slowly getting to where 4 miles doesn't cause me to collapse at the end, so hopefully the 5 miles is not too far away. Plus, J took me to get new shoes. Shopping for anything always motivates me a little more. Plus, these pretty blue and pink shoes are just so bright and fun, that I look forward to wearing them.</div>
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So, I've been starting my days with a Tinker Bell mug full of coffe, and I'm striving to get back into devotions every morning. Then I strap on those pretty tennis shoes, and walk. Even if I'm not seeing it on the scale, my body is feeling it. And that's what I keep reminding myself of!</div>
<br />Christie Bellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10131377798582160855noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1613341223904872757.post-91054546887141582682013-03-26T11:54:00.001-04:002013-03-26T11:54:25.012-04:00Piggy McFatterson<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
That's my dog. Kojak. A.K.A. Piggy McFatterson. I was looking through my phone and realized I had several pictures of him that I haven't blogged about, so this is a post all about him. Anyways, he acquired this name because he has no self control. He eats all of his food, hardly ever leaving a single piece, and even if he has just finished off his bowl, he will finish off the neighbor dog's food, his love/hate relationship girlfriend's bowl (even though technically, they are dog cousins since Lola is Ashley's dog), or any object on the floor resembling food. Last vet visit, he had gained 5 lbs. Apparently, that is not good at all for animals (we have had to cut his food back). Me...heck...I can put on 5 lbs. in a day:/ #womanproblems. It doesn't help, either, that my mom loves him and feeds him popcorn, and chips, and scraps from cooking, and says that he looks good with a little weight on him..he super duper loves her. Aaaanyways, now that I have explained the reasoning behind his nickname, Kojak has been the best dog we have ever had (besides my childhood dog, Abby, who lived to be old and feeble, and faithful to the last day). He has such personality, and makes us laugh. A lot. He thinks he is human. And he thinks he weighs 10 pounds. Add about 50 more to that 10, buddy. He really wishes he was a lap dog. And he tries to be.</div>
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After this late-season cold front moves out, and it warms up again, he's getting shaved. We leave his fur long for winter, and while I love him furry and think he's so cute with lots of fuzz, I hate. HATE. the fur cleanup. I vacuum up fur pretty much every dang day. J has gotten better about brushing/raking him, because it's his decision to leave him furry in the winter (My vote was to keep him shaved and buy him sweaters. My vote was vetoed.), so therefore it is his job.</div>
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This was last week. We get this much fur everytime we brush him. I do not know how it is physically possible for him to still have so much!</div>
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See, even Kojak is shocked at the amount of fur! This picture gives you a better idea of just how much fur comes off of him, as you can see it is the size of another dog. And no, it's not actually another dog.</div>
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Another thing you should know about Kojak, is that he thinks his sole purpose in life is to play fetch (and to follow me everywhere, and eat, and try to herd cats--that always goes well--and children, but you throw a ball, and everything else no longer matters). His favorite toys are his rubber ring, and his ball. The ring is for indoors, the ball is for outdoors. Although, he frequently tries to tote them everywhere. He can only have rubber (the kong type of rubber) toys because we have yet to meet another toy that can survive him. I'm just glad that destructiveness has never been shown towards our house or furniture. He is so stingy with his toys, and J loves to annoy him. This particular night, he was wearing his ring as a hat, or a halo..but that's not very fitting;o) You can just see the spitefulness in his face...</div>
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Kojak..not pleased. He did not stop staring him down, and when he didn't throw it for him, he stalked him.<br />
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And stalked him. This went on for a good while until he became really annoying and wouldn't stop circling, whining and grunting. Spoiled brat, he did finally get what he wanted.</div>
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And we wonder why he is like he is...</div>
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Christie Bellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10131377798582160855noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1613341223904872757.post-30543962498160677742013-03-06T13:20:00.000-05:002013-03-06T13:20:22.538-05:00What A Week..<div style="text-align: justify;">
First, I want to say how blessed I am that yesterday marked mine and J's 8 year wedding anniversary. It came and went, and wasn't the best one, but it is not just about the day. It's about <u>every</u>day of the past 8 years. I have found my true love, and I was fortunate enough to be able to marry my best friend. Not everyday is easy, not everyday is fun, but I wouldn't want to do it all with anyone else, and we work at it, we love, and we keep God in our marriage, and for that, I feel we have been blessed with such a wonderful and strong relationship and bond. He is always, without fail, there for me. He's my rock. Growing up, I saw that firsthand with my parents. They supported each other, and my mom could always depend on my dad. They were each other's biggest fans, and nobody could come between them..they were always united, and from then on, I knew I wanted that. Needed that. It took some time, and there were a few frogs before I found my prince, but just like the song says, "God blessed the broken road". A lot of times, daughters with good dads look for men like their dads, and I found one. Jason is funny, smart, driven, brave, strong, not afraid of hard work, a provider, and so durn handsome. I am so thankful for him and for our marriage, and I look forward to the rest of my life with him, and what our future together holds.</div>
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With all of that said, this week my sugar britches has what the docs think is E. Coli. SHRIEK! You hear so many bad things about this mess. It's true. We are waiting to hear the official results of the tests hopefully tomorrow, but he has all the signs and symptoms. It started Sunday night, and here we are on Wednesday still battling it. We think it may have been from the sushi he ate over the weekend. I stay away from that stuff like the plague (plus I think it's nasty), and hopefully he will from now on too! He has been soooo sick. Yesterday, he tried so hard to feel better, and he did for a little bit, he even tried to go to dinner (against my warnings), which ended in to-go boxes, and rushing home. Without too many icky details, it's been like the worst stomach virus you can imagine. Add on top of that, horrible cramping, fever, and dehydration resulting in IV fluids today. Who knew symptoms can come and go...he thought he was on the mend yesterday, and then he started all again last night. Being in the military, you can't just call in sick (dumb, if you ask me), so he had to go report in and go straight to BAS (the base doc), but now he's home again (he insisted I stay home and not drive him because he was feeling some better this morning, and I didn't sleep but maybe 2 hours..I still feel like a bad wife for that). I am sitting here typing this as he sleeps on the couch. I feel so sorry for him, so helpless. Plus, I'm pretty sure he's ready to throw his bottle of Gatorade at me if I tell him to drink one more time, he'll thank me later. Maybe. He's feeling better today than he has yet, and no more throwing up today (crossing fingers!)..he has extremely low energy, but his appetite is coming back. He was starved when he got home, and so I researched the best things to try and made him some toast and scrambled eggs...so far, so good. It settled and that has been about 1 1/2 hours ago. Please pray that this is the end, and he can recover. We are supposed to celebrate our anniversary with a few days at Myrtle Beach starting Sunday, and hopefully he will feel like going, we are really looking forward to a little getaway.</div>
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This is where Kojak has been every minute that J has been home. Right by his side. And when he's in the guest room, he's outside the door, and when I go in to check on him or help him, he is hot on my heels, crying. He does not like when one of us is sick, he is super intuitive. Last night, I was watching t.v. when I heard a bang/boom noise, and thought chalked it up to the nearby ranges doing bombing drills last night, but then I kept hearing a strange noise I wasn't sure of. Kojak, who was surprisingly laying by my feet last night, got up, went to the bedroom door, and just stared and kept sniffing at the door jamb. I got up with the quickness then, and J had fallen out of bed and was throwing up. Thanking my lucky stars that I put a trash can by the bed. J said he is our modern day Lassie;o) </div>
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So, Kojak and I are holding down the fort. I'm ready for this week to turn around. But, I will uphold my part of the vows, and this is definitely putting that "in sickness" part into practice!</div>
Christie Bellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10131377798582160855noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1613341223904872757.post-15815940091373962652013-01-31T14:21:00.000-05:002013-01-31T14:21:26.867-05:00Gigantor Basket<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
After pining over all the large quilt baskets on pinterest, blogs, etc., Momma and I came across a wonderful basket at TJMaxx in Charlotte over Christmas. Unfortunately, I had no room to shove one more single thing in our car to go home with us. So, I reluctantly left it. Then a few weeks later, when we were spending the day in Wilmington, we walked through that TJMaxx. And wouldn't ya know, they had my basket there too! I was so happy and snatched it up immediately. With basket prices being upward of 75.00 for this size, I was really excited at the 50.00 price tag. It's a soft weave which makes it a little floppy, and I was able to fit 5 blankets in it (one being in the bottom that you can't see, just in case you are counting them, and thinking that I can't count, heehee), including a large quilt. I finally convinced J to get rid of the fish tank as all of the little fish were dying, and the algae eater was getting too big, and murdering the small fish. I didn't think they were supposed to be murderous, but ours was. Psycho. </div>
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It freed up that corner that I had dreamed of having a big basket of blankets in, and so that's exactly where it went. I rearranged some of the wall decor, and added a bit more over the basket. It's a much better corner now. Plus, the surround sound speaker isn't sticking out like a sore thumb quite as badly.</div>
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It makes me want to dive in and take a nap. Ok, so it's not quite that big, but you get the point.</div>
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Doesn't that just say it's cozy nap time to you!? It does me, especially on these chilly winter days.</div>
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<br />Christie Bellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10131377798582160855noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1613341223904872757.post-17907037352826887462013-01-30T14:08:00.001-05:002013-01-30T14:08:57.941-05:00The Pink Has Taken Over!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
I love to decorate for Valentine's Day. I don't typically decorate with much pink, so when the opportunity arises, I do so! I love pink, it's in my top favorite colors, but is hard to use in year-round color schemes. If it were just me in the house, there would be much more pink. But it would be sad, because I'd trade pink for J's companionship any day:)</div>
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I added some color on my bookcase with a few pink blooms, some hearts and free printables found on pinterest and other blogs. The print in the pink frame can be found <a href="http://libby-bonjour.blogspot.com/2011/01/photobucket_26.html" target="_blank">here</a>. The print in the sweet little birdie frame (that I HAD to have from World Market a few weeks ago when J and I spent the day in Wilmington), is <a href="http://www.daffodildesign.com/2011/01/freebie-printable-valentines-prints.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
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Now before anyone gets too excited and starts thinking how sweet J is to be doing the dishes, he's actually just cleaning his phone case. But I still can't resist that sweet, goofy face:)</div>
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After cleaning out all the glitter and fake pine needles from my centerpiece box that we made last fall, I decided to fill it with all of my white and red candles. Perched in front is my sweet little love bird salt and pepper shakers from Cracker Barrel. They're smooching.</div>
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I left up one of our Christmas trees by the back door, and added a strand of red, pink, and purple lights from AC Moore, and decorated it with heart ornaments from Hobby Lobby. I left the twine bow on top and the burlap sack skirt from Christmas, because I just really like them.</div>
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I got some bigger red and pink hearts, and some little clay hearts with all sorts of cute love quotes on them.</div>
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I filled my favorite vase with pink and white hydrangeas.</div>
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On/at my buffet/pencil leg table, I draped a ribbon garland over the window that is wrapped with another strand of the pretty little lights, and added a heart wreath from Target. I made some topiaries this year with styrofoam balls, a wooden dowel, and a clay pot. All the flowers came from the Dollar Tree. Even at 1.00 a piece for the bouquets, this project got expensive. I love the outcome, but it went more smoothly in my head. I had to use A LOT of flowers. I ended up having to go to 3 different locations. Ridiculous. The original plan was to do two identical ones, you will see the Plan B version on the mantle. I just trimmed the flower buds close but still leaving about a 1-2 inch stem, then hot glued them into the styrofoam. I painted the pot white, and polka-dotted it with pink. The wood dowel is hammered into a piece of wood and glued in the bottom, then covered with dried spanish moss, the wood dowel goes all the way through the pink one, and topped with the white one.</div>
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This is my new, absolute favorite lamp. It was in the clearance section of Hobby Lobby. Don't know why, it was in wonderful shape, and it has KEYS on it! For 27.00 it wasn't even a question. I had no idea where it was going, but I knew it was going home with me. There was a group of girls stalking me for it, as it was the last one, and everytime they passed me, they would comment on how they just loved it, and how cute the keys were. I didn't let it out of my sight. It ended up being the perfect size for the table. Another clearance item was the little wooden box. The top was just a plain piece of padded burlap. So, of course, it got a stenciled key on it to match my lamp. They are the perfect pair. Add a yummy candle, and a grapevine ball, and it finishes this little corner of the table.</div>
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In the middle sits a little bird perched on a heart, holding yet another key. With my coupon, I got this at Hobby Lobby as well for 40% off. I'm tellin' ya...it was a good trip to Wilmington. (Same day that I got the bird pic frame.)</div>
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I added one of my favorite Willow Tree figurines since it goes nicely with the love theme, a red candle on a white stand (that you can't really see), and framed this cute little printable with a glass heart frame from Walmart for about 4.00. It's kind of light, but it says "Keep Calm and Love On". It can be found <a href="http://handsonhousewife.blogspot.com/2011/01/is-it-valentines-day-yet.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
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I added a little stuffed heart to the swag on the entertainment center. It's looks hand stitched and has lots of cute buttons. I think the colors worked perfectly with the scrap fabric garland already there.</div>
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My mantle!</div>
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A little banner I made the other day. I printed out vintage music sheets found <a href="http://knickoftimeinteriors.blogspot.com/p/antique-graphics-to-print.html" target="_blank">here</a>. I really LOVE this website, she makes all sorts of free antique printables. Tons of stuff there that I want to frame! I cut out a simple square banner shape out of them, and distressed them a little more with my distressed inking stamp pads. Then, I cut out the letters with my Silhouette Cameo, glued them on and added some primitive shaped hearts in between. I glued them to some braided twine, and voila!</div>
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Plan B topiary. I combined the leftover buds, and "planted it" in a pink pot. It's a smaller one, and works well for the mantle. It's accompanied by a candle in some milk glass and another Willow Tree.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggmmQqSp_Onahs-z7SG36cObx79HjZjz8ClgTE26SoOTlT3ESaDrnp49TghcDjZcpCLQ-hGYbPdLJudgseLRTt_iwSO5qn8DoZDSi9CBwFVauMc5pIA5AsnNkc7Ylk4zn2Fh24GIAQNj0x/s1600/DSC_1762.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggmmQqSp_Onahs-z7SG36cObx79HjZjz8ClgTE26SoOTlT3ESaDrnp49TghcDjZcpCLQ-hGYbPdLJudgseLRTt_iwSO5qn8DoZDSi9CBwFVauMc5pIA5AsnNkc7Ylk4zn2Fh24GIAQNj0x/s640/DSC_1762.JPG" width="424" /></a></div>
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I made this big wooden sign out of a piece of finished plywood. The design is mine, and if you would like to use it, you are more than welcome to. I will include a picture of the outline at the bottom. To get this look, I used all acrylics. I used different pinks to paint patches first, then covered it all with Antique Parchment by Apple Barrel. Then I sanded to let the pink come through a bit. To get the design onto the board, I colored the back with a pencil over the picture/words, and just traced on the front. It leaves a nice outline for you to paint in on the board. I painted the picture/words with FolkArt Lipstick Red. The border is done in Apple Barrel's Honeysuckle Pink and Cameo Pink. Then it got another good sanding. To finish, and give it a more aged look, I heavily watered down some brown paint, brushed it on, and wiped it down. I accompanied the sides with a few more printables. The one in the red frame is <a href="http://www.sprikspace.com/2011/02/just-because-23.html" target="_blank">here</a>. The one in white is <a href="http://www.thegirlcreative.com/2012/01/valentines-subway-art-free-printable.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
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Candelabras, milk glass, and flower buds finish up the other side of the mantle.</div>
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Another view...</div>
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And a bit of pink and red by the front door. A heart welcome twig swag sign and some pretty daisies in a blue mason jar.</div>
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And, for anyone interested in the design on my Valentine sign, here you go. If you use it, please don't sell it or claim it as your own. Please link back to me if you do use it or post about it. Thank you! </div>
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Note: My board was 28x24, I uploaded it to blockposters.com to get the size I wanted for my board. It will print it out in regular size sheets for you, then you just tape together to get your poster.</div>
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Christie Bellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10131377798582160855noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1613341223904872757.post-90435677119536771422012-12-25T00:44:00.003-05:002012-12-25T00:48:31.077-05:00Christmas Is My Favorite!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
You will notice a theme throughout this post. There will be a lot of the use of the word favorite. But I can't just choose one thing. I love it all!</div>
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New snowflake pillows courtesy of felt and fabric glue:) I needed something to match my new very warm, very snugly snowflake blanket.</div>
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Our pretty Christmas tree. I love lots of lights, and lots of color. We don't have a theme. It's just lots of meaningful ornaments from over the years together. That's the best kind for us! Guess how many lights is on that 7 ft. tree! 1400 baby! I told you I like lights! And then there's all those brightly wrapped gifts, it was so nice to get done early this year!</div>
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A shot with the mantle. It has a colored lights garland to compliment the tree. </div>
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I used the reindeer burlap picture that I made a few months ago, spread some big pinecones under it, added some red candles and holly sprigs, then topped it with the "no peeking...no sneaking...no shaking" sign. I bought that specifically for my husband;o)</div>
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A pretty framed Santa picture in our guest room. I love this picture...it was cut from a gift bag!</div>
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A few more guest room decorations.</div>
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One of my favorites. A sweet little snowman lamp with a shade that shines different Christmas scenes when turned on. I inherited it from my Momma. I adore it. It warms up this corner in the kitchen perfectly.</div>
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Christmas goodies tins, big white poinsettias, pinecones, and snowmen line the high bar in the kitchen.</div>
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More poinsettias in my favorite sisal rope vase.</div>
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One of my favorite Christmas pictures at a tree lot. If you look close, my hair was really dark, but I still love the picture even though I'm back to blonde. On the other side, a cross-stitch Merry Christmas from my Momma. Half the stuff I have is thanks to her!</div>
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Corner by the tv cabinet. Snowflake plates, and a vase full of sparkly curly thingies. Such a technical name for them. There's also a hand stitched primitive letter to Santa on the table in a frame, can't see it too well, but refer to this <a href="http://cmm3505.blogspot.com/2012/12/christmas-around-house.html" target="_blank">post</a> to see it better.</div>
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Another cozy Christmas blanket to match another pillow that I made. I stenciled this design on canvas drop cloth and painted it in with red acrylic paint.</div>
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A basket full of ornaments, grapevine balls, and jingle bells. All wrapped in a holly berry swag.</div>
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My pencil leg table with some more favorite decorations.</div>
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Another primitive letter to Santa, Jingle Bell candle sticks, a small tree with a burlap skirt, and a flocked wreath. One of my favorite areas to look at this year.</div>
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A little tree in the mudroom greets visitors, and our Jason and Christie snowman plaque hangs over our ugly alarm system box, I think I need something there year round now.</div>
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My most favorite nativity scene. I collected these pieces over several Christmases, and finally got them all 2 years ago. I look forward to setting this up every year now, changing it slightly from year to year. My mom and I found a branch vase filler with lighted stars on it, and it works nicely as the night sky background when it's dim in this room at night.</div>
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Our little centerpiece box redesigned for Christmas with flocked pine branches, pinecones, and holly berry sprigs. The candles light up the middle.</div>
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And lastly, another small tree by the back door with wooden ornaments and a burlap skirt sits atop a little chair.</div>
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I love our decorations this year. It never seems that I get to enjoy them for long enough though. Our house has felt really warm and cozy this year. It may get to stay up a little longer than usual...</div>
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Merry Christmas everyone! I wish you a wonderful day filled with love and joy, surrounded by family and friends. And my most favorite thing about Christmas....remembering the real reason we celebrate Christmas, I am so thankful that we serve such a loving God who sent His son to save us. Let us celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, our Lord today and remember how very blessed we are!</div>
Christie Bellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10131377798582160855noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1613341223904872757.post-21227279146274358902012-12-19T09:10:00.001-05:002012-12-19T09:11:28.399-05:00Our Christmas Bedroom<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Going with the red already in there, I added a vintage red stocking, red candles, pinecones, and burlap on the dresser.</div>
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The headboard got draped with greenery and white lights...so cozy at night:)</div>
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A little pillow that I painted. I made a stencil from an image of the nativity I liked from a google search I did. Then I traced it on plain ole red cotton fabric with a pencil. I painted it in with white acrylic paint. Once dry, I sewed and stuffed. Easy, but time consuming, it needed 3 coats to not show through to the red!</div>
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I made some canvas stockings for our room this year. I just traced a stocking I already had onto canvas drop cloth, cut out a strip of burlap and frayed the edges a bit, then traced our initials onto it. Then I flipped 'em inside out and sewed them up. It was my first run at sewing curved edges. I don't think I did too horribly. They hang on either side of our headboard.</div>
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Another shot of my pretty little pillow. I just love that thing. And it totally looks good with the reds on our bed.</div>
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<br />Christie Bellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10131377798582160855noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1613341223904872757.post-83061972052358787782012-12-18T08:03:00.001-05:002012-12-18T08:03:22.726-05:00Christmas Around The House<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I'll have more pictures of the bigger decorations and displays soon, but even the little things make me smile. I love me some Christmas time!</div>
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Christie Bellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10131377798582160855noreply@blogger.com2