The Big 4-0

We made it...40 weeks today!  We are the size of a small pumpkin, folks.  Little Mr. Rinella is officially due today, but as we've seen, that date really means zilch.  He feels like he's pretty big though.  I am wondering if he knows where to go in there because all I feel are legs, feet, knees, and back in my upper belly and sometimes I can't even bend because he's there.  I'm really thinking I can start gathering up his "newborn/infant-sized" clothing and pack it up cause this beefcake might come out already driving. 
 

I'm very happy and excited that my mom will be here tomorrow night!  It will be so wonderful to have her and it's very reassuring to have the extra support when I really need it the most.  Hopefully, Grandma ("Manna") will get to experience her newest grandson's worldly entrance.  Mom, thank you in advance for being at the hospital.  This might not be the most comfortable stay, but I promise it WILL be memorable!
   

We still plan on going into the hospital Monday night for induction round 2.  The doctor really wants to help me try and deliver this boy naturally and thinks that inducing is the best way.  Who knows how long this could take otherwise.  However he comes, we'll all be ready to greet him. 

Daddy and Grandpa 

Little one, they are waiting for you,

and they're so excited for the next generation!

Anything worth having is worth waiting for...

Still.  No.  Baby. 

This week has been a ROLLER COASTER and I can't believe I haven't gone completely insane.  I'm trying to stay unwavering and strong for what I know eventually is coming.  Easier said than done.  I just never thought that we'd be having so many unpredictable twists and turns to all this...but like any experience in parenting, you truly just never know. 

This was "optimistic Karen" yesterday before going into the hospital. 

I won't show you "tired, emotionally crazy, poked-and-prodded, frustrated, confused, and if-one-more-person-sticks-there-hand-up-there-I'm-gonna-flip Karen because of course there are no pictures for that.  Phil and I were delirious from that last 24 hours of trying everything and getting nowhere.  I just had to trust my instincts and go home to get rested.  We'll see what's in store for the next few days, and then the doctor wants to repeat the induction for after my due date.  One thing we knew leaving the hospital, we made the right choice.  A lot can happen in 3-4 days and we will try again.  This is TWICE now, leaving the hospital with lots of high hopes and no baby.  So, will the 3rd time be a charm?  I hope.  After a very much needed night's rest, I feel better.  Just hoping that our baby will give us some sign that he's *almost* ready.  Good thing I'm a patient person.  Thanks for all the prayers and support, everyone.  xoxo    

Pizza, Promises, and Pitocin

When Phil and I got home last night, we had a spontaneous celebratory we're-not-at-the-hospital-having-surgery pizza party. Very fun.

Now, we're gearing up for another fun celebration...

It's a Party!

What: Labor and Delivery Game Plan #2

Where: Banner Baywood Hospital

When: Tomorrow Night!

Why: We're Getting Induced!

Baby is still head down and cooperating so the doctor wanted to do an induction.  I am all for it and just want to strike while the iron is hot.  I go in tomorrow night, stay all night for a 12 hour cervical ripening, and then they will start the induction of pitocin to start labor contractions on Thursday morning.  Doctor Semrad promised me that this time, pack my bags for real because we won't be leaving the hospital without a baby. :)  Hopefully, if all goes well, you'll be hearing some good news by Thursday night.  Let's do this!

My nerves have significantly calmed since finding out the baby turned.  I feel like the weight of the world was lifted off my shoulders and it still gives me the chills to think about the little miracle that will soon be joining us.  But sorry, little one--we didn't save any pizza for you. :(



Thrills, Chills, and Suspense

Theatrics.  That's all I have to say.  Our baby boy just earned himself the Academy Award.  Whether he was playing possum or just wanted to keep us on our toes, he has made this a day we will NEVER forget.  I guess he didn't want to be evicted after all, he'd rather leave on his own terms.  Here's what happened...

Yesterday, I did everything I could to try and relax.  I got a pedicure and a massage, and I was like a ravenous boar (nerves) just eating and doing little "chores" to get things ready.  I had that "burst of energy" or whatever it's called when you just suddenly jump up and start doing things left and right.  Then, Philly and I got everything ready, tied up all loose ends, and finished making last minute arrangements.  We were very productive.  Meanwhile, our son was waiting for us to find out that the joke was on mom and dad--he is a prankster already. 


Right before leaving the house for the hospital

We arrived at the hospital this morning and got all checked in. 



Serenity Garden



That smile was forced...I was SCARED out of my mind.

We were taken to a room and I got dressed in that beautiful hospital gown.  The nurses started monitoring baby and me right away.  Nurse Joan did an abdominal exam and where she'd expected to feel his breech head, she did not feel it.  "Believe me," she said, "I've felt plenty of baby heads, and it's not up there."  Phil and I just looked at each other.  She left the room and came back with the ultrasound machine.  Sure enough, his head was down and he was in a perfect position.  Silence.  And then shock and disbelief.  And then smiles and the ultimate relief.  I was in awe.  This baby did not want his mama to have surgery after all.  I cannot tell you the feelings I felt in that room.  I have never psyched myself up for anything so much, gathered up every last ounce of courage I could, only to be blown away by this surprise twist.  How this happened I'll never know, but here are some of the things that I tried during the last few weeks: I swam, I turned upside down in the pool, I did pelvic tilts, I put frozen vegetables on his head to get him to move, I went to the chiropractor for a few adjustments, and I PRAYED constantly.  But as of Tuesday, he was still breech.  Well, I guess this is another lesson for me to NEVER LOSE FAITH.  And also that you can make the best of plans, but sometimes, even those can change on a dime. 



Head down and ready to go.  Our little "Houdini"

Surgery was cancelled and we were sent home.  Now it's back to the "waiting game."  And it's back to the doctor's office tomorrow morning.  I hope this goes by quickly because the last 6 days were excruciatingly long.  I know I'm in for LOTS more waiting though, and it's okay.  I am not disappointed by any means that we don't have our baby today because it was not meant to be.  He will tell us when he's ready.  Sorry to get everyone all excited, we'll all just have to be patient.  The saga continues...



We're coming back home.  No baby today.  See you soon!

It's "Baby's Eve"

This is it.  My last day of being pregnant.  That is so strange to say.  But in about 24 hours, I will become a new mama and get to "unwrap" the best gift of my life.  As I was lying in bed this morning, I was extra still so that I could feel every little squirm and movement of my baby.  I sure will miss having him this close, but I am beyond ready to meet him and greet him with tons of kisses and hugs.  The countdown is on.  And it's not days anymore, it's hours.  Holy Moly.


To My Little Love,
Since last October, you have made me the happiest mama-to-be in the world.  With each week that you grew, so did our love for you.  You never once made me uncomfortable, and you delighted me each time I saw your face on that ultrasound.  Your lively kicks always reminded me that you were there.  The next time I wake up, I'll be holding you in a very short while.

We are ready for you, dear little one. 

6.18.12

That's 3 even numbers, all multiples of 6. I like the mathematical look to that birthday. Here's what we know about this day so far: You will share a birthday with singer/songwriter Paul McCartney, baseball outfielder Lou Brock, and model/film actress Isabella Rossellini.  You are a Gemini and your strengths are "lively," "money-wise," and "influential."  (Taken from, The Secret Language of Birthdays)
P.S. I'm bringing your baby book to the hospital in the hopes that I can get the nurses to stamp your little feet in there. 

*****************************************************************************

"Daddy's Diaper Duty"

This project was created by Philly in an effort to score loads of diapers for our new baby.  Every 10 diapers brought into the store by customers earns them one raffle ticket.  After the baby is born, he will raffle off the Hot Corner Sports Cards gift card and one lucky winner will get to spend $300.  He did amazing, as we currently have just shy of 1800 diapers.  Plus we have lots more at home from our baby shower.  This little one will always have a clean tush.



Father's Day breakfast at Starbucks.  Daddy's excited for tomorrow!

******************************************************************************************

Today marked 39 weeks of pregnancy.  Baby is the size of a mini watermelon (tell me about it).  We absolutely cannot wait to experience this amazing journey's end.  Thank you to all our family and friends who have been so supportive and givers of constant love and positive thoughts.  We will be sure to update the blog with pictures and baby fun as soon as we can. 

If anyone wants to come visit me in the hospital, I like snacks.  And ice cream.  And I LOVE Rice Krispie Bars  :) Just kidding, you don't have to bring anything.  But really, I won't refuse food or treats.  Just saying.

Happy Father's Day to all the daddies.

Thank you, all, for keeping up with my blog!  I shall return soon!

Love, Karen

Mark your calendar, he's a-comin'!

I feel like Doogie Howser, M.D. Remember at the end of his show, he'd sit down to type at the computer and we would see his thoughts come to life on the screen?  Yesterday, I wouldn't have known where to start.  It was a roller coaster of emotions.  We went from the ultrasound and seeing that our baby's head is still nestled snugly up near my rib cage, to being examined by the doctor, to talking about our next move, to me sitting in the lab chair getting my blood drawn, to being handed a folder from the hospital about what time my surgery would be...all in a matter of 2 hours.  Needless to say, I was a basketcase (thank you to my wonderful husband for being so steady and strong and for just reminding me that everything will be just fine). 

I knew in the back of my mind it was a possibility that we'd be heading down this road, but when I saw the date and time of surgery written on that piece of paper, it just seemed so...final.  But after lots of mixed emotions, tears, and some temporary moments of sheer panic, today I am much more at ease with our decision to trust that the doctor knows what's best for baby and me.  The doctor went to great lengths to thoroughly explain to us the reasons why this is the best route to get him here safely.  He explained the risks of delivering a breech baby naturally, and gave us all of the information we needed to understand how a c-section is the advisable method for our situation.  Our baby will come into this world in a controlled environment with no complications.  I can't ask for anything more than knowing that his health and safety are the utmost priority.  His estimated weight as of yesterday was about 8 lbs.  Right before the c-section, they will do one final scan to check his position (unlikely that he will flip, but still possible!) and we'll go from there. 

Soooo, here we we are with 4 more days to go.  I can't believe that the time is almost upon us.  Our baby will make his grand entrance on Monday, June 18 at Banner Baywood Hospital.  We will arrive at 10:30 am, and surgery is scheduled for 12:30 pm.  I can't wait to finally see this little charmer and hold him in my arms.

Dear Phil, did I mention this is your Father's Day present?  I hope you love it!



38 weeks, 2 days

Yes, I am nervous, but I know everything will go smoothly.  We are in great hands with the doctors and medical staff, and we appreciate all of the support of family and friends.  Thank you for your continued prayers.  Once I have that baby in my arms, I'm sure I'll forget I even had surgery. 

To Be Continued...

Waiting

Waiting

Dear baby, here beneath my heart,
I thought that you might come today;
The timing seemed just right.

But the stars are out and the moon is high
and sheepishly I wonder why
I try to arrange the plans of God.

For now I know you will not come
until the one who holds eternity
rustles your soft cocoon
and whispers in tones I will not hear,
"it's time, precious gift."

"Now it's time."

-by Robing Jones Gunn

I really really love that poem.  It made me cry.  It is so true, like Phil's Aunt Eleanor said, "When the fruit is ripe, it will fall from the tree."  I'm just getting so excited, it's hard to wait.  Today, I've cleaned the toilet, grocery shopped, made lists, crossed them off, and done about every non-important chore that I can think of as a distraction.  It's not helping.  But I'm still feeling great, still feeling the baby move--a lot (I'm wondering if he's river-dancing in there).  Tuesday we see his little face again at the doctor's appointment and ultrasound.  I can't wait.  I'm getting heartsick to meet this little boy angel.  Don't worry, I'll keep you all updated.  *14* days to go...

I was standing in line at Starbucks when...

I was standing in line at the Starbuck's inside the Safeway grocery store, and had just ordered my iced tea when a complete stranger came up to me, and said, "Honey, I'd like to pay for your drink today."  Um, okay...I thought, do I know this person?  I told her that was so sweet of her to offer but she didn't have to pay for my drink.  Well, but she insisted.  She told me that she saw me standing there and wanted to do something nice for me.  After basic introductions, she went on to say that she doesn't ever go to Starbucks, but that she had a gift card that she wanted to spend and make someone smile that day.  "Are you sure?" I asked again (cause I had news for her that I didn't just order ONE drink--I had ordered TWO).  She didn't care.  She paid for them both.  And then she asked me when the baby was coming, put her hand on my belly, and recited a prayer for a safe and smooth delivery for mama and baby.  Normally, I might have been very taken aback, but I felt very at peace with the whole meeting.  We had a nice little conversation, I let her know how much I appreciated her kind gesture, and we parted ways.  What a nice way to start my day.  You just never know what's going to happen at any given moment.  Thank you, Barbara at Safeway.

It's been like that for a few days now.  I have little angels just doing wonderful things for me everywhere I turn.  And it's like the nicest thing ever to relish each distraction as a break from the worry and nerves I've been trying to ignore with each passing day.  Whether it's just a friendly text to check in, a visit or a phone call, I appreciate all the concern.  Just within the last week, I've had several little "deliveries" made to me at work by kind family members and friends including: a cozy new pair of slippers, a smoothie, homemade banana bread, a cool caprese salad and popcicle on a hot day, and a box of cream puffs.  I am just so thankful for the people that are taking such good care of me and looking out for my well-being. 

So here we are with *18* days to go!  We are rounding 3rd base and headed for home plate folks.  But I'm not running toward the finish line, of course.  It would look more like a waddle at this point.  I'm taking my time because I'm still convinced that this little guy is going to turn.  One common thread that I've noticed in talking with lots of mommies who've been there before me is that by the time they are at this point, they are so anxious just to get the baby OUT that they are willing to go through whatever pain is necessary just to find relief.  Me, I am NOT in that same boat.  I have been so lucky with this pregnancy.  Other than being concerned about his position and the normal first-timer jitters, he is not causing me ANY discomfort, and I am still sleeping somewhat comfortably at night.  I really have no complaints.  The only thing I can't seem to shake is the series of intense dreams I'm having at night.  I guess the natural anxiety of upcoming labor and new responsibilities fuel some strange flights of unconscious fancy.  But you can't have dreams if you're not sleeping so again, no complaints here. 

This mama is happy these days.  Although I am very excited to see my little one's face, I am in no hurry to bring on the ouchies either, so I'm taking this last couple of weeks or so and making the best of it.  I'm trying to convince Phil that we need to do a "Babymoon" this weekend, just go somewhere--the two of us--and soak up the last drops of "freedom" we have before the craziness commences.  So, hopefully, if feeling up to it, we'll do something, maybe just get to a pool and relax or out to dinner.  Kayleigh is leaving today with her mom and step-dad's family on a 10-day cruise.  Lucky girl, I know!  She was worried about leaving for fear that she might miss the baby's arrival, but Phil and I have assured her that he will come when he's supposed to come, and that little brother would never hold it against her if she's not there for his immediate entrance. 

We have one more ultrasound next Tuesday to check baby's size and position.  From there, I have a feeling the doctor will either say we're good to go, or want to schedule a c-section if he still hasn't moved head down on his own by then.  If the baby decides to turn before the c-section, surgery can always be cancelled.  Nothing like waiting til the last minute.  But such is life.  And we can't really get frustrated at him because both of his parents either A) work well under pressure, or B) have been known to procrastinate from time to time.  (I'll let you guess which one is which). 

We're also watching for these memorable June dates on our calendar...perhaps our little one will share a birthday with a friend or loved one: Tara's birthday (15th), Father's Day (17th), Bryan's birthday (20th), Fletcher's birthday (22nd).



Saw my little baby's nickname on a wine label and had to take that shot! 



At an anniversary party for good friends...
that's not sweat on my face, it's called a "glow."
Okay, it's sweat.  We're upon hot times here people!

June Jitterbugs

The month of June is finally here!

Baby's due date is drawing near.

Hospital bag is ready and packed,

Laundry folded, diapers stacked.

Nervous feelings, excitement grows,

Can't wait to see little fingers and toes.

With each new passing day we wait,

Will he come early, will he be late?

Nine months of waiting, elation and joy,

It's almost time to meet our baby boy!
-KLR

I can't believe it's finally June.  This is the month we've anticipated for so long now, and ready or not, here we are.  June can really be a HOT month in Arizona, but so far, it hasn't been too bad.  But I speak too soon because we are expecting a temperature high today of 111.  Yikes.  Technically, we're supposed to be wearing *less* this time of year, but I have never had *more* of me to have to cover up so it's been interesting.  Thank you to my wonderful friend Jo Ellen for the box of summery maternity clothes.  It arrived just in time, my friend!  My product endorsement of the month is Anti Monkey Butt.  It's wonderful and works amazingly in preventing getting too swampy or sticky in any of those areas that you really don't want to be swampy or sticky.  And my song of the month is Maroon 5 "Harder to Breathe."    



Beautiful Desert Vegetation

Thank you, Jo Jo!

We're still waiting for our little meatloaf to turn around--please keep saying prayers, I know he's listening.  I'm going to try and go swimming this weekend in the hopes that he will do some fancy aquatic twirls and find a new position with his head down.  He's making his mama nervous by cutting it so close.  But breech or not, we will find a way to get him outta here when he's ready.  Next doctor appointment is Tuesday and we'll be checking for any signs that he is getting ready to make a grand entrance.

(This week, he's the size of crenshaw melon.)

We will remember...

Memorial Day: A day to remember...

We will remember all of the military service men and women who so proudly have served and still serve our great country. 

We will remember to cherish our time with family and friends and our freedom to enjoy a day off to be with one another.

We will remember to appreciate all of the time and effort spent, gifts given, and thoughtful things people have done for us in preparation for our new family member.



"Baby Clothes dressed up like cupcakes"



Outfit from the Fountains

We will remember to reflect on and appreciate the few days left of sleepful nights before our new baby arrives.

We will remember Elementary School fondly, but look forward to the new experiences awaiting.

Happy Memorial Day to one and all!

Emotions, Eclipse, and Excitement!

Did you ever have a moment where you knew you were going to lose it, then you thought, no--I'd really better hold it together here, and then ultimately decided on losing it anyway?  Well, that was me this week.  I would say that my emotions have gotten the better of me these last few days, but I will explain myself.  First of all, I have been pretty good at not overindulging in rich fattening foods as to not overdo it or gain excessive weight.  But the other day, I just really wanted Dairy Queen and there was no other alternative to satisfying that craving.  So, we stopped at the trusty DQ and I ordered the blizzard of the month (small size, mind you) and it just happened to be something with confetti sprinkles in it but no chocolate.  So, I asked if they could please put hot fudge on top.  I really wanted something chocolaty, but not TOO much in there.  Well, we pulled around, got the ice cream, and started for home.  As we drove out on the main road, I looked at our treats and noticed that neither one had any hot fudge on top.  Oh, I was more than mad.  I even verified that we actually DID pay 35 cents extra for the delicious stuff.  But they just blew it off like it must have not been important.  Well, it WAS important.  We were sort of too late to turn around, but once we got close to home, I had Phil pull into the McDonald's by our house so I could go in there and beg for some hot fudge.  Phil looked at me like I was truly insane but I persisted, saying that I really needed it.  And so I'd like to say thank you to Phil for tickling my fancy and also to McDonalds for giving me a FREE cup of hot fudge to pour over my ice cream, and for allowing me to choose how many pumps I wanted in that cup.  I think they knew not to mess with this situation.  And I was happy again.

But the emotions were not over...the next morning in the shower, I completely lost it and burst into a weeping sob session over the sappy country song that was playing on the radio.  If you have ever heard Tim McGraw's "Don't Take the Girl," then you know what I am talking about.  If you are pregnant or otherwise feeling vulnerable, take my advice and don't listen to that song.

And then the overload of emotions came today--it was going to be a very exciting day because we were having an ultrasound so the doctor could check on the baby's development.  Well, the technician actually apologized to me because she told me that our baby had a "big" head for his size and that he is, in fact, at the moment, butt down in the breech position.  She said she wished she could tell me something better, but it was looking like he was still measuring on the large side of the scale.  What in the world does that even mean?  Is she saying that's bad news because I'll have to deliver a huge baby?  And there was no doc in the office today to even give his expert opinion on what that could mean for our birth "plan."  Here's what we have surmised based on her reports and without talking to the doctor: we have a big baby in there. According to the measurements, he could be anywhere between 6.5 and 7.5 lbs currently.  She suggested that the doctor will take a look and assess whether we would need to induce me earlier.  But this is all I know, and I won't see the doctor until next Tuesday.  SOOOOOO...we now wait.  I sort of wish she didn't really "scare" me like that.  I feel so nervous and anxious that it's like we have 2 big babies on our hands, me being one of them.  But I'm really trying to relax and not worry.  Que sera sera.  But please say prayers anyway.  I will really appreciate it.  I have this feeling that we are closer than we thought to meeting our beefcake.    

Last Thursday night, Phil and I went to the hospital and met two awesome nurses, Annette and Pam, in labor and delivery.  We were the only ones there for the class so we had our own private session.  And we learned a lot about the procedures they go through and how they monitor the baby and me.  I feel that we are in good hands and I am putting all my trust in the Lord above and the doctors and nurses at this point.  But I'm getting my hospital bag packed now so we are ready. 



Solar Eclipse

Can't wait to meet our baby boy!

38 Days and Counting...Sheep that is...Where are you, sleep?

Oh, yes, it's been HOT here.  In the high 90s and low 100s.  And when it's hot, it's harder to sleep...even when not pregnant.  Many women report getting extra irritated at their spouse or significant other during pregnancy for any number of reasons.  I had just told Phil the other day how supportive and wonderful he had been throughout this whole endeavor and how I really had nothing negative I could say about him or his behaviors.

Until last night.  When he was snoring happily and sleeping like a baby, I was tossing, turning, and getting increasingly frustrated, then mad.  Why can't I just drift off?  Why can't I stop perspiring?  If only I could turn over on my stomach.  We have this ritual each night as I get ready for bed.  I have pillows all around me, and Phil secures the one behind my back, helping me to get tucked in.  And every night, I hear a different variation of an announcement from him as I get into bed that sounds like a train conductor and goes something like: "All aboard!  Children under 4 ft not permitted on this ride.  Folks, keep your arms and legs inside the car at all times."  Even though I know it's because I cause a huge raucous getting settled, it still makes me laugh every time.  Except last night it wasn't so funny because he was sleeping and I was not.  But, nevertheless, morning came.  And I rolled out of bed feeling aches, cracks, and creaks, but that's okay.  It won't last forever.  I am trying to keep my sense of humor intact, but!  Less sleep proves that to be more challenging. 

Our doctor's appointment went very well on Tuesday.  All was good with Mama, Daddy, and the little one.  (I had the nurse take Phil's blood pressure too--just to make sure :) and he had a healthy reading so I was happy).  The baby has settled into the head down position, resting comfortably (for him, not for me) on my pelvis.  This has made some things interesting and puts new emphasis on the importance of knowing where the nearest restroom is wherever I may be.  From here on out, we have weekly appointments every Tuesday to check the status of the baby, labor progression, and all that fun stuff.  We have one more ultrasound next week.  I'm anxious to see if I can get a good look at his face to see who he looks like.  I know that it is getting closer and closer, but I am feeling more and more (and more) tired lately.  My doctor (and my body) are telling me just to get as much rest as possible and conserve my energy for what is to come.  Thankfully, family and friends have been especially helpful in allowing me to do just that.  Special thank you to Ron for assembling the bureau in the baby's room.  I was finally able to put all the baby's clothes away.



My new diaper bag from Phil and Kayleigh

Tonight, Phil and I will attend the first of 2 classes for childbirth and labor preparation at the hospital.  This should be interesting.  I've had people tell me that the classes really helped, and then there are others who insist that you'll have your own experience and it won't really matter what you've learned in the class--they cannot fully prepare you for what to expect.  I am of the philosophy that you can never learn too much or be too prepared, and I just feel better getting acclimated to the people, policies, and environment of the hospital, as well as having the extra "coaching" support from my husband as we get ready to take on a whole new experience.  And they serve snacks.  That's a plus.  We'll also be getting registered so that when we do come to hospital for D-Day, all our forms will already be on file and we can just rush me right to where I need to go.  So, wish us luck at our session, and if anyone has any advice, insight, or helpful tips for me, just lay them on me--I'm open to suggestions.   

With a belly this size, I've learned to find versatility in it.  It comes in very handy as an arm rest, a table top, and a pillow.  (34.5 weeks)

I want to wish a very Happy Birthday (Monday, May 21) to Kiera Marie who is turning 6.  I can't believe how the time flies.  6 years ago, I saw you the day you were born, and you were a little angel.  You were the apple of your parents' eyes.  And Guess what?  You still are.  Only now you are so much more: a Kindergartener, a big sister, a princess, a reader, a lover of life, and so much more!  Wish I could be there for your special day!  I love you!

Birthday and Mother's Day Weekend of Love

This weekend was packed with pampering and extra special love and thoughtfulness.  It started with a relaxing pedicure and some slow days at work where I had more time to sit and put my feet up.  We love being busy, but this time of year, we start to slow down as more and more snowbirds vacate the desert in search of a cooler climate.  That cuts down on our work load, and right now, I'm taking advantage of the extra rest as we enter the home stretch.  And it is nice...

Grandma and Grandpa Rinella got the baby the coziest most awesome swing ever, and I put that together on Thursday night.  Even though there was more sweating and panting than usual, I managed to get it done in about an hour.  I just wanted to jump in it and take a nap--seriously, this is the SOFTEST sweetest little cradle swing I've ever seen--appropriately named "My Little Snugabunny."  I think our little one will enjoy many a leisurely ride in this...

Saturday was my birthday and I would say that it was one of the best birthdays yet.  The sweet things people did for me provided the comforting "chaser" from the sting of turning another year older (sorry for the drinking reference there, but hey, I've been deprived for quite some time here).  Phil let me sleep in and went to work early.  Again. (I love you baby!) to do the majority of the physical labor so that I could have an easier day once I got there.  On the way to work, I checked my phone and listened to some lovely birthday serenades.  Then I received even more in person.  Thank you to Jo Ellen and and Fountain children, Tara, Mom, Mark, Kiera, Christy, Nathan, Grandma, Bigfil aka Nutsy and the Hot Corner Crew for all of your creative renditions of the birthday song--they made my day.  Two customers from Hot Corner made Phil and me this adorable diaper cake.  My favorite quote of the day about this cake: "The only bad thing about this cake is that it's not edible." 

I also received lots of nice gifts including some bath and body products, scrubs, and foot creams, lotions, and more trips to the nail salon for more pampering.  Phil picked out a diaper bag for me and the baby (so sweet) and he and Kayleigh filled it with bottles.  I got a new top, an American Idol magazine, and a new carry-all bag.  I love oversized bags.  I love bags in general because I like carrying lots of things around with me in case of fire, flood, or other disasters.  I cannot say thanks enough to everyone for all the sweet cards, gifts, hugs, kisses, dances--yes, birthday dances were given, and much much more.  I am a lucky mama-to-be, and no, I didn't mind turning 30 at all! 

Okay, I'm 34, there I said it.  Aye.  I feel old.  But I'm well taken care of.  And I'm happy.

After work, we headed home to relax and take a nap before dinner at my favorite restaurant, Maggiano's Little Italy.  It has been at least a couple of years since I'd eaten there, and even though it's a bit of a drive, Phil insisted that we go.  And I'm so happy that we did.  Phil ordered Lobster Carbonara, Kayleigh had Fettuccine Alfredo, and I ate my yummy usual--Eggplant Parmesan.  Then we left with even more food than we had ordered.  I love their new concept of ordering one meal for dinner, and the chef sends you home with another complimentary plate of your choice.  We are well stocked with leftovers.  But they won't last long in our house.

Thankfully, the long drive home gave us just enough time to make room in our bellies for some homemade Texas Chocolate Sheet Cake, made by Grandma Marie.  The finishing touch on the day.  And I polished mine off with a glass of cold milk.  Are you seeing why this was such a great birthday yet?  I know, it was heavenly. 

And a special Happy Birthday to my 2 birthday buddies, Rowan Catherine (May 12, 2010) and Jakob (May 12, 2011)! They are the sweetest!

This week, the baby is the size of a cantaloupe and he weighs nearly 5 lbs!  Our next doctor's appointment is Tuesday and we are getting very very very excited!  The days are closing in--42 left to go!  We will keep you all updated with the goings on!  Thank you for all the advice, support, and prayers.  Happy Mother's Day to all my "moms" both near and far--you are all loved so much!