What's in my tummy?

I'm not 100% sure what Jake makes of my tummy. He doesn't even notice it really. Lately, we've been talking about it a lot. I say, "Jake, look at mommy's tummy, there's a baby in there", and then he rubs it. So sweet. Today, I said, "Jake, there's a baby in my tummy", he walked over to me, climbed in my lap, and hugged it. Then he gave me a kiss! I know... cuteness.

I had my cell phone right next to me, so I was able to capture the moment. He is such a sweet little one. He'll either be 17 or 18 months old depending on when the baby is born. I just feel so lucky to be having another little boy. Jake makes me so happy, and I know that this new little munchkin is going to make me over the moon too. It's going to be so cool seeing these boys grow up together! Playing sports, getting into things, growing bigger than me, accomplishing so much, and spoiling their mommy. ;) Also, seeing them play with all their boy cousins is going to be neat too (3 other boys, plus my 2!). Total of 5 Stones/Badanes!

Here is another picture of Jake rubbing my tummy. :) 

LIFE IS GOOD.

33rd week update.

HEARTBURN! That is the only down fall with pregnancy for me. I have it in the morning, afternoon, and at night. I take the max on the Tums... Smoothly Tums is what I prefer! ;) Other than that, pregnancy is relatively easy.

It's funny when I think how different things were with Jake verses baby #2. With Jake I could nap, relax, exercise when I wanted to, run errands, etc. With this little munchkin, I'm on the go! Chasing and playing with Jake, and keeping up with everything else. This pregnancy seems to have flown by. I love being pregnant. It's just easier when you don't have a 16 month old in tow. We might have one more little one (if we are fortunate enough), but I will wait until Jake is in school. I can't have 3 in diapers! Can you imagine?

This morning has been amazing. Grant and I usually attend Saddleback Church in Rancho Santa Margarita, but with the 1 hour drive (each way), and Jake, we haven't been attending regularly. We'll watch the service live on our computer though. Today, Grant got up and said... we are going to church. We're going to SeaCoast Grace (were we got baptized), and Jake will go into the kiddie program for an hour. I started to protest, and then I realized... It was time. We need to get back on track. Jake is 16 months, and we have another little one almost here. SeaCoast Grace is close and we should go.

Jake hit the door and went straight in.... didn't even look back for us (or me for that matter)! We went in for the service and I felt awesome! The music and the message where just what I needed today. I'm so thankful that Grant made that decision. I'm so thankful for my life, my family, and for Jesus. Life is so good... And taking communion was amazing. I started getting teary eyed. Thankful for God giving us his only son, and for the path of forgiveness and everlasting life. The most amazing gift. I'm proud to be a Christian woman, and can't wait for Jake to really start understanding how fortunate we are.

Jake got home and is napping (hence my blogging), and when he gets up we are going to go to lunch, the park, and then come home and paint and play in the backyard.

Jesus replied: "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind." Matthew 22:37

Hope everyone has a great Sunday!

Winter in California

It rained all day Monday... and now back to sunny skies! Today was about 80 degrees. I know it's hard to believe, but its true.

Today, I was going to head to Disneyland with my friend Liz and her daughter, and then I remembered that I'm 8 months pregnant and have to use the restroom every hour. Plus, lifting Jake is a little more of a challagene. I decided to wait to do that with my muscle man... and stay home and play here!

So, we took it outside!

Jake has play stations all over. Outside, inside, in the car, etc. ;) 

He first started on his mat.

Played a little bball.

Went on the swings and on his slide. 

 He was so dirty we took a bath early! 

 Then we had tangelos from the tree in our backyard. 

We finally read books and colored.

Today was a good day!

VBAC watch 2012...

I hit the every 2 week appointment phase of pregnancy! Yesterday I went into the doctor with the thought the baby had flipped to breech. As soon as the doctor walked in the room, I told her my fears. Since I had one breech baby, the chances of another breech baby are pretty high. This baby moves so much, so I figured he had flipped.

He didn't! My little munchkin stayed! And the doctor said he's really far down as well. She said she'd be shocked if he flipped now. It can happen, but with the position he's in, it would be quite the challenge for him. WHAT A RELIEF! 

Here are some other things I found out... My little man is measuring 2 weeks ahead again. He is either going through growth spurts or he's going to be big. I'm aiming for a growth spurt! With a VBAC, he should be an average size, not super large. I'm naturally a healthy eater, so all the weight I've gained it going straight to this baby! I've gained about 17 pounds so far. I would like to stay in the 30 pound range. Normal is 25-30 pounds per pregnancy. I think I gained about 39/40 pounds with Jake. But, I started out pretty skinny with Jake. Don't think I completely lost all of my baby weight for baby #2. Seeing that I was only about 8 months out! ha! Anyhow, I don't stress about weight. I enjoy the pregnancy. I eat what I crave (in moderation), and I like to eat healthy for this growing boy! 

A lot of people have been emailing about VBAC's and my decision to have one. They ask why? It really is a personal preference. I never wanted a c section with Jake. I was devastated when they told me I had to have one since he was breech. At that point I was consulted about a VBAC (if I decided to have another pregnancy). I made up my mind back in August of 2010 that I would attempt one if I got pregnant again.

Knowing I don't have family close to help me... I don't want to be recovering from a cesarean. I want to be able to be as "normal" as possible for both my little boys. Grant can't work and be a helper at home. I will have our babysitter come in and help a few hours here and there, but it's mainly going to be me. I need to be in fighting shape! Keeping things as normal as possible for Jake, and caring for a newborn! :) 

There are so many websites with good information you can google or ask your doctor if your interested in one as well. I know I've been googling for years! My doctor and the hospital is fully equipped to handle VBACs. And you need to make sure your doctor is comfortable with your decision and is also trained in case of an emergency. Not all hospitals will let you do them as well. Long Beach Memorial is a great hospital! They have one of the best neonatal facilities in the country. Not only do I have a great doctor, I will be at a great hospital. It's all God's will. 

Factors on my side for a VBAC are:

1. I progressed with my first pregnancy. I dilated, effaced, and my water even broke.

2. The baby is head down.

3. I'm in good health.

4. I've only had 1 c section.

5. At this point my son is "normal size"

Factors that would make me not eligible:

1. He flips to breech.

2. He becomes huge.

3. I develop health problems, ex: high blood pressure.

I have also made the decision to have a cesarean by my due date if I haven't had the baby before that. Past 40 weeks you run the risk of low fluids and baby will keep growing and perhaps get too big. So, if I naturally haven't gone into labor on my own (they don't give you pitocin in a VBAC), then I will have a cesarean on March 18th. I'm not scheduling anything as of yet. I'm going to continue down this path and see what happens. 

Thanks for reading my journey! God has a plan... I know that. What is meant to be will be. I will not be disappointed if I can't have a vaginal delivery. I will accept that it's for the best for the baby and myself. I'm just excited for the possible opportunity.

The baby's room is really coming along! All the furniture is in place, I'm just waiting for the bedding and pictures to be made. I'll post a picture later this week of the beginning phase! 

Have a great day!

Happy Chinese New Year - YESTERDAY!

I had this blog scheduled to post and it never did. Better late then never, right? I wanted to wish all my friends a very happy and prosperous New Year!
This is the year of the Dragon. Baby #2 will be a Dragon!

Personality

Occupying the 5th position in the Chinese Zodiac, the Dragon is the mightiest of the signs. Dragons symbolize such character traits as dominance and ambition. Dragons prefer to live by their own rules and if left on their own, are usually successful. They’re driven, unafraid of challenges, and willing to take risks. They’re passionate in all they do and they do things in grand fashion. Unfortunately, this passion and enthusiasm can leave Dragons feeling exhausted and interestingly, unfulfilled.

While Dragons frequently help others, rarely will they ask for help. Others are attracted to Dragons, especially their colorful personalities, but deep down, Dragons prefer to be alone. Perhaps that is because they’re most successful when working alone. Their preference to be alone can come across as arrogance or conceitedness, but these qualities aren’t applicable. Dragons have tempers that can flare fast!

Health

Considering their hard-working nature, Dragons are healthy overall. They do get stressed and suffer from periodic tension/headaches, likely because they take so many risks. Dragons could benefit from incorporating mild activity into their lives. Yoga or walking would be good as these activities can work both their minds and their bodies.

Career

Dragons prefer leading to being led. Jobs that allow them to express their creativity are good choices. Some good careers include: inventor, manager, computer analyst, lawyer, engineer, architect, broker, and sales person.

Relationships

Dragons will give into love, but won’t give up their independence. Because they have quick, sometimes vengeful tempers, their partners need to be tough-skinned. Dragons enjoy others who are intriguing, and when they find the right partners, they’ll usually commit to that person for life.

Dragons and the 5 elements - water for 2012

Water calms the Dragon’s fire. Water Dragons are able to see things from other points of view. They don’t have the need to always be right. Their decisions, if well-researched, are usually better since they allow other’s to become involved.

Compatibility

Dragons are compatible with the Monkey or Rat and incompatible with the Ox and Goat.

Jake is the year of the Tiger.
Personality

Occupying the 3rd position on the Chinese Zodiac, the Tiger symbolizes such character traits as bravery, competitiveness and unpredictability. Tigers love to be challenged and will accept any challenge if it means protecting a loved one or protecting their honor. They don’t worry about the outcome because they know they’ll always land on their feet. Don’t let their calm appearance fool you though; Tigers will pounce when they feel it’s necessary.

Born to lead, Tigers can be stubborn if they realize they’re not in charge. They have a slight tendency to be selfish but overall, Tigers are extremely generous. They’re very intelligent and they’re always on alert. Tigers are very charming and are well-liked by others. They are not motivated by money or power.

Health

As they do their enemies, Tigers have a tendency to pounce on their work. Afterwards, they’re left feeling exhausted. Although they’ll soon bounce right back, over time this approach can cause problems with their health. Tigers need to develop a more balanced approach to life so they can utilize their energy more efficiently.

Career

Tigers have a continual need to be challenged which may explain why they jump from job to job. This isn’t necessarily a problem because they’re smart and able to quickly master new subjects. The best jobs for Tigers are those that will lead them towards positions of leadership. Some suitable careers for Tigers include: advertising agent, office manager, travel agent, actor, writer, artist, pilot, flight attendant, musician, comedian and chauffeur.

Relationships

Creative in their passion, Tigers will never bore their partners. They’re expressive, polite and trustworthy, but watch out. Tigers tend to dominate their relationships. This tendency is instinctive and when monitored closely, such behavior can be kept under control. Partners need to be equally active to keep up with the Tiger’s sense of adventure.

Tigers and the 5 elements - metal for 2010

Assertive, competitive and sharp, once Metal Tigers set their sights on their goals there’s no stopping them. They’ll always do what’s necessary to remain at the center of attention. Metal Tigers tend to jump to conclusions; a behavior they need to work at improving.

Compatibility

Tigers are compatible with a Dog and a Horse and are incompatible with a Goat and an Ox. 

Grant is the year of the Goat (1979), and I'm the year of the Monkey (1980). You can read more about them here: Chinese Zodiac
Have a great day... and a Happy New Year!

32 weeks - 8 months

I turned 8 months yesterday. I went from small belly to big belly overnight! I've been reading old blog posts from when I was pregnant with Jake and it brings tears in my eyes. Being pregnant is such a gift. Life is a gift! 

Weight gain:

I believe I'm at about 15 pounds. I'm so active with Jake, I'm pretty sure I'm burning lots of calories. Plus, with the heartburn I've been eating pretty darn healthy and light. I just make sure I'm snacking all day! 

Pregnancy symptoms:

The heartburn has gotten worse. Grant swears I was like this with Jake too. I slept on the couch 3 times last week, because almost sitting straight up is better. Plus, this baby is moving like crazy. Not so much the kicking... It's the rolling and moving that keeps me up. He's pretty active!  

Doctor blogging:

I go to the OBGYN every 2 weeks now! I actually go in tomorrow. So, I will update on that blog!

Here is an updated picture of me:

This weekend was busy... like usual! I had 2 birthdays to attend and 2 important games to watch! ha! I celebrated my good friend Liz's birthday at the race track on Friday night, and my other good friend Katy's birthday was celebrated on Saturday! 

I seriously have a knack for the horse races! I'm not kidding. This is my 6th time going and I always leave a winner. I've learned how to read the stats and then with luck... I win! I usually play the winning horse, and I do an exacta box (with 3 horses). That means, I bet on the horse I feel will win the entire race, and then I choose the top 3 finishers (and with the exacta box they can come in any order). Anyhow, mama got a pair of Tom Ford glasses out of this trip! woo hoo! ;)

I also took Jake to get his hair cut... again! I take him every month. This kiddo has lots of hair! It's thick, wavy, and blonde. I'd like to think he has my hair... but, I'm sure he's got Grant's hair too! ;) Look at how cute my little monkey is! Jake is such a happy boy. The older he gets the sweeter he gets! I'm serious! If I say, "Jake, give momma a kiss", he comes running up to me and plants a big one on me! And then he hugs me and pats my back. I just melt! I wonder how he'll be with his brother? I'm sure he'll wonder what the heck the baby is doing here... but, he'll adjust and love him like crazy! The thing we'll have to work on is sharing. Jake is used to being the only one... so, the challenge will be sharing me, toys, and time. But, I will do my best to keep things as "normal" as possible. I read a great article my friend posted on becoming a mommy of 2. It was a good read, and it gave me some tips. The majority of what I hear is that it's tough in the beginning and then it gets easier as they get older. They will be about 17 months apart... I'm up for the challenge... obviously! 

Well, until my doctor appointment blogging... have a wonderful Monday!

Sunday Fun-day!

What does Sunday Fun-day mean to you? This personally has changed over the last few years, but it still remains my favorite day of the week.

When I was single my girls and I would bike ride along the coast (usually involving champagne), go wine tasting, catch up on movies, TV, laundry, sleep, and our weekly gossip (not in any particular order - ha!). When I met Grant it meant, sports, friends, traveling, wine tasting, sleeping in (yes... I can hardly imagine what that is like now), relaxing, and just enjoying each other's company (again... just examples).

Sunday Fun-day is quite different after you have kiddos. It's even better! We get up in the morning, get ready for the day, and go to our family breakfast. After breakfast we either go shopping for things we need or want, and come home to plenty of sports. Then we take it outside! Jake plays on many of toys and plays on his swing set outside. We play until the little guy starts heading towards the door. Then we come in to shower and get ready for dinner. Relax as a family and watch TV. We then put the little guy down and head to our room to relax and get ready for another week.

It's not always just like that... but, the weekends are family time. I have such wonderful weeks staying home with Jake, and playing with my mommy friends, but when it comes to the weekend it's time for our little family to hang out. Everything we do we can do with Jake. Whether we go to Long Beach State games, travel around locally, go out to eat, hang out with friends, go to church, etc. It's our time to bound. It's what I look forward to all week. Jake loves to play with his dad! He loves to play with me... but, play is so different between a father and a son.

CSULB basketball game on Saturday night.

Well, since it is Sunday... this blog is taking away from our relaxing husband and wife time. I shall post some pics from our weekend and close down for the night. I hope you all had a great weekend!

Playing a little basketball

Jake's new car! He loves it!

Playing the guitar in the garage. He's a musical little dude.

On his swing set! 

Laying ON the cat! haha.

Getting ready for his ride in the radio flyer.

30 weeks - 9 weeks to go!

Technically, I would say 10 weeks to go... but, if I have my c section then I have 9 weeks to go! I'm officially in count down mode. The furniture for the nursery is in route to my house, and I think I'm having the babies bedding made. I will make that decision by the end of the week. Color scheme is royal blue, grey, and a hint of yellow. Everything is going smoothly. Other than my heartburn. Just like with Jake. Wonder if this baby will have lots of hair as well?

We think we have the name officially! We are between 2 names. We aren't saying the names yet. Because we keep going back and forth. Both names have meanings, and are very special to us. We actually might wait until he's born to decide! We'll see if we can wait to choose. :)

It's just so hard to believe I'm in count down mode again. Amazing. I'm so excited to be meeting my new son. Grant is thrilled beyond belief! What parent isn't excited, right?

My doctors appointment is on Tuesday, so we'll be getting the update on size, health, and what position he's in. I'm feeling better every day since I was in the hospital earlier in the week. Thanks for everyone that has called and messaged me. I'm have such incredible friends. Knowing that I have a group of girlfriends that I can count on at any given time is so nice. Makes me so happy.

Here is an updated picture I took. I had to take it myself or I'd forget to have Grant take one of me. I was really good about taking pictures of Jake... but, now we're so busy... it's hard to remember.

Here is a photo when I was 30 weeks with Jake. We were on our babymoon.

Hope everyone had a great weekend!

Christmas in Boise!

My camera arrived, and I have downloaded the pictures I took over our Christmas vacation. We had such a fun time! We spent about 10 days there. I swear it seems like we're there only a short week. Jake was loved on the entire time we were there. He was so spoiled. He followed Dylan everywhere! Dylan is the best. He played so much with him. And when Dylan's friends would come over they'd all play with Jake too. He was so happy to be playing with the "big boys".

This was the first year I'd spent in Boise over Christmas without snow. It was cold, but not too bad. There was snow one morning, but it quickly burned off. The boys were able to play golf a few times, and us girls were able to get our coffee's, massages, lunches, and even some shopping. It was nice and relaxing.

We went to a nice church service and even went back and met with our pastor there. Pastor Tom is great! It was nice to catch up and tell him all about what we've been up to. We even talked about dedicating our next son over the fall. It's nice to have someone to talk to about things that are going on, and have someone pray with you. I just wish we could attend his church more regularly. Who knows what the future will bring, right? ;)

Well, after those 10 days, it was time for us to head home. Grant needed to get back to work, and I needed to get myself and Jake back on track. After spending that time with my family and seeing Jake play with another boy, I'm so excited to have my next son. I know that the 17 month age difference will be hard, but I know that they will be best friends. I'm so happy to be having another boy. I love watching him play, and get into things. The exploring is so exciting for him... it makes me a little nervous at times... but, I'm never too far away.

Thank you mom, dad, grandma, and Dylan for making our trip so fun! It was one of the best Christmas's to date! In fact, this year as a whole has been so fun! Every holiday just gets better with having kids and a full house. Thank you each and every one of you for making 2011 so memorable. Cheers to a new year full of blessings!

Here are some pictures of our trip:

 My dad gave him a few gifts to open on Christmas Eve.

 The family came down to this... my mom is so talented! She needs to be an event planner! Maybe we'll do something in Boise next year??? ;)

GORGE!

 Our family of 3... or 4 actually! 

 Getting help with all of his presents.

 Jake got so many toys! I had to leave most of them... and ship the others!

 Silly boy.

 Jake was so spoiled by his grandparents!

 Hugs!

 On way to a family breakfast in downtown Boise.

Our favorite... GOLDY'S.

 Grant and his boys.

 Pop Pop and Ya Ya with Jake.

 On a walk around the city of Boise.

 Pop Pop carried Jake everywhere!

 Inside the Capital of Idaho. My stylish little dude.

 My little brother Dylan. Isn't he cute?

Love + Friendship = Marriage

What a rough few days over here at the Stone house. 2 nights ago I woke up (around 1am) and was sick until about 8am. I called my doctor (OBGYN) at 3:30am and told her what was going on with me. She told me to try ginger ale, chicken broth, crackers, and so on. So, my wonderful husband went out to find me those items. The doctor also said that if I can't keep anything down, then I need to admit myself into Labor and Delivery.

Grant came home and I started to sip a little on the chicken broth, and ginger ale. I was more comfortable on the couch, so Grant sat right next to me and bought a movie for us to watch together. I managed to close my eyes for an hour. I then woke up and got sick! Being sick is horrible, but when your 7 months pregnant... it's even worse!

I decided to call back the doctor. The doctor said to go to the hospital. I left Jake at home with Grant and I drove in. I got there and went right up into my room. Monitors went on the baby immediately, and he was doing just fine. He is so strong in fact that he was kicking the monitor right off him. The nurse had to come in several times to adjust it. She thought it was from me moving... not my little guy. Then they drew my blood, and put my IV in. I was so dehydrated they could barely find a vein. As they were putting my IV in I threw up again. Only I almost threw up on the nurse. Another nurse ran in and brought a bed pan for me. There went my Gatorade. :/

After the IV was in and they gave me medicine to stop throwing up, things got better. The lights went off and I was able to lay there and relax. After a few hours I was able to leave.

The culprit. A virus. From what? Could be from traveling... ONCE AGAIN! Remember when Jake had a virus in Oklahoma, and had to go to the hospital? Well, apparently we all have sensitive stomachs! :)

Last night my sweet husband got sick. I feel so bad. Poor guy. After all his care and love for me. My husband is amazing. Holding back my hair, rubbing my back, holding me, going to the store in the middle of the night, sleeping on the couch next to me because it's the only place this pregnant lady feels comfortable. He's awesome. I'm one lucky girl! Not only is he a hard working  man, he's a family man. He is my best friend. Always making sure Jake, baby #2, and I are happy.

Well here's to a healthy New Year! At least we are getting these illnesses done before our new little guy arrives. My camera arrived yesterday, so I will upload those pics and blog tonight!

29 weeks - 4D ultrasound

Today I got to see this lil guy:

Isn't he perfect? I think he looks very different from Jake. Well if you compare the 4D ultrasounds that is. Nothing makes me happier than seeing my little men grow! He kept smiling! It was so sweet. A happy little guy already! 

I have more exciting news.....

HE ISN'T BREECH!!! Well, so far that is. I'm hoping that he doesn't flip. If he doesn't flip I have a new plan. No c section. :) It depends on a few factors though. My due date is March 18. I'm scheduled for a c section on either March 10 or March 11. But, if this baby stays head down, and I naturally progress (dilate, efface, etc), then I will be heavily monitored and will go for it. Factors against me would be, he flips to breech, or I don't progress. Having my sons so close in age is also a factor against me. 

I'm just so excited I might have the opportunity! I have been praying for a VBAC, but know that God is the one in charge. So, I have faith that what is meant to be will be. I won't be upset either way. End result... healthy and happy little boy! 

Today was only my 4D ultrasound. My regular doctor appointment is next Tuesday. I will have more details on the baby then! So, check back next week for the update.

If your wondering why I haven't posted anything about Christmas yet... I left my camera in Boise. So, that is currently en route to my house... Will be posting those soon... I hope!