tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-46381433993567621552024-03-15T21:09:57.461-04:00There are only two ways to live your life.One is as though nothing is a miracle. The other is as though everything is a miracle. -Albert EinsteinDanahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14855399113878755637noreply@blogger.comBlogger214125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4638143399356762155.post-72967441129989791252020-01-18T14:28:00.000-05:002020-01-18T14:48:36.091-05:00Introducing Little SisterJust a little over a year ago, on January 30, 2019, we welcomed our sweet baby girl, Marissa Sue, to our family! Her two big brothers are in love with her too. Our family is now complete. We feel very blessed! xoxoxo<br />
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<br />Danahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14855399113878755637noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4638143399356762155.post-53375729168667493162019-12-31T14:16:00.000-05:002020-01-18T14:37:32.316-05:00The Best of 2019<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />Danahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14855399113878755637noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4638143399356762155.post-75351061105722821222018-12-31T14:15:00.000-05:002020-01-18T14:38:17.142-05:00The Best of 2018<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />Danahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14855399113878755637noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4638143399356762155.post-89104235425500816412017-12-31T14:13:00.000-05:002020-01-18T14:39:25.911-05:00The Best of 2017<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />Danahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14855399113878755637noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4638143399356762155.post-36536133825254879322016-12-31T14:10:00.000-05:002020-01-18T14:40:12.611-05:00The Best of 2016<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />Danahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14855399113878755637noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4638143399356762155.post-15226861969718682032016-03-02T20:47:00.000-05:002020-01-18T14:10:40.967-05:00Here We Are a Year Later...So I've done pretty much the worst job ever at keeping up this blog. But I was at my desktop today for the first time in months, and I thought that I'd update with some recent pictures. I mean, it's been over a year so... Our Henry is now TWO years old. It's kinda crazy. I mean, this is our baby we are talking about.<br />
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And Ryan is five and a half years old. The "half" is very important at this age. ;-) Here are our family pictures that we sent out with the holiday cards a few months ago. These were taken at a beach that is just minutes from our house. We really love living near the water.<br />
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We are doing well, staying busy as usual and loving all of the little things in life. Wishing all of the best to you too! I apologize for not keeping up with responding to blog comments lately. One day I will catch up and then post about Henry doing his toddler activities, since this blog is very "Ryan activity" heavy, and we've been doing some new Montessori-inspired things. Happy almost Spring! So ready.<br />
<br />Danahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14855399113878755637noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4638143399356762155.post-89523483214182279782015-01-10T21:20:00.002-05:002015-01-10T21:30:05.582-05:00H's First Birthday Party<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: xx-large;">Welcome to Henry's Winter ONE-derland!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This big boy loves to eat any and everything, especially birthday cake.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">We decided to do a small party this time, with just family. I'm so glad that Henry got to have his grandma, 2 grandpas, great grandma, and great aunt there.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I attempted to take pictures of Henry each month in the same spot, but I totally forgot to take a picture for 9 months. (Oops! I guess those types of things happen with the second child.) I still think that it's fun to see how much he has changed. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Henry has been taking steps for a couple of weeks now (since Christmas Day), and I was finally able to catch it on video! These little ones really do grow way too quickly!</span></div>
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<br />Danahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14855399113878755637noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4638143399356762155.post-84594444319965361802015-01-09T20:50:00.000-05:002015-01-10T21:28:58.187-05:00Happy Holidays!So I'm a little late with our holiday update. Is it just me, or does time just fly by these days?! I hope that everybody had a wonderful holiday season! Here's a few of my favorite pictures from the past month...<br />
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Here's to a happy, fulfilling, and HEALTHY 2015!!! :-)</div>
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<br />Danahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14855399113878755637noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4638143399356762155.post-49517373516568627182014-10-04T01:38:00.000-04:002014-10-04T01:50:17.784-04:00Ryan is 4 years old!We recently celebrated Ryan's 4th birthday with two Disney Cars themed parties (plus he had a celebration with his primary class at school). Ryan has been really into the Disney Cars characters for a long while now, and this year he insisted on having it for his theme. Lightning McQueen and Francesco Bernoulli have practically become members of our family, parts of our identity, etc, considering the number of activities and conversations that we have about these race cars, haha!<br />
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Looking back on this past year, Ryan has changed and grown so much. From a shy and dependent 3 year old to a confident and rambunctious 4 year old, I couldn't be any more proud of this little man. I wish that I had a video camera running constantly, so that I could catch all of the quirky/hilarious things that come out of his mouth. On occasion, I have been able to jot down some of these things on my phone, but this is only a small fraction of what I get to experience on a regular basis.<br />
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I'm guessing that some of these traits (issues?) are common for pre-schoolers, but anyways, I think that most of them are pretty funny/cute!<br />
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1. Grammar confusion: "Where is him?" "That's she's food." "Look! There's two ones!" "Today is the goodest best day."<br />
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2. Shows kindness / affection: "Does your tooth feel better now, mommy?" "I love you, mommy. I care about you. I need my mommy." "That looks pretty on you" (even when it's an old t-shirt).<br />
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3. Remembers everything better than I can (seriously!): Before we leave the house, "Don't forget to bring the cupcakes." When we are at the market, "Mommy, you need to buy more vitamins, remember, you said that?"<br />
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4. Notices every detail: "I know that building over there is Henry's doctor because it says 888, see?" (I didn't even realize that we could see that building from where we were).<br />
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5. Obsessed with his little brother: "Henry said balloon! Henry said goy goy!" "Hey, this is Henry's first time doing that. Good job, Henry!" "Henry can't handle these big boy toys because he can only play with baby toys because we want him to be safe." "Did you know that all babies are God-gifts? Like surprises you don't know!"<br />
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6. Mispronounces words: "reggaly" for regular, "aminals" for animals, "ghostesses" for ghosts.<br />
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7. Thinks about the future: "Mommy, will you let me know when I'm a grown-up, in case I don't know?" "I can feel that my teeth are starting to get looser, so that means that I'm getting really big." "One day, I'll be the boss."<br />
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8. Takes things literally: "Wow, Ryan, you're as fast as lightning!" "No mommy, I'm so much faster than Lightning!" (meaning the race car, Lightning McQueen.) Ryan calls tank tops "muscle shirts", so at church he announced that "Mommy is wearing a muscle dress!"<br />
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9. Tries to get his way: Puts a toy in my hand and whispers, "playyyy". Since he's not allowed to say "potty words", he decides to go into the bathroom, calmly says the words aloud, and then comes back out. He asks for "gluten-free" water (he has no idea what gluten-free means, but decided that it was a cool thing to say.) I told him that he couldn't have a cookie before dinner because it would spoil his appetite. He narrowed his eyes and said, "I don't like appetites."<br />
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10. Tells stories: "I'm going to tell you a scary story. One time I went into my closet and I closed the door and it was really dark and really spooky and then... the fear came. Wasn't that scary, mommy?" "The ducks went into the hole when it rained because they didn't want their friends to see their fur all messed up. The end."<br />
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11. Makes sure that people are doing (what he thinks is) the right thing: "Why is that lady wearing a swimsuit in a restaurant? It's supposed to be ONLY for the beach or the pool." (It was actually a very revealing shirt, but I can see how he could mistake it for a swimsuit). To me, he says, "Honey, honey, why aren't you eating your food and sitting the proper way?"<br />
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12. Loves repetition: He wants to read the same books over and over again. Danny and the Dinosaur, the Richard Scarry books, and Meet the Cars characters book. It's amazing how much he still enjoys every detail of these books, even after the hundredth time.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: xx-large;">Birthday Party Pictures</span></b></div>
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Thanks to all of our family and friends who celebrated with us this year. I still can't believe that our sweet boy is already 4 years old. It really feels like just the other day I was on here writing blog posts about him as a baby, posting a video of him crawling and then taking his first steps, trying to figure out potty-training, etc. Time flies and every single day that I have with these boys is precious to me. Nobody knows what the future holds and I feel very blessed to even be here today after everything that we have been through. Always praising God for this beautiful life!<br />
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I thought that it would be an interesting experiment to give Ryan a list of things and ask him whether he thinks that they are "real" or "pretend". It will be interesting to see how his perspective changes each year. Here are his answers as a just-turned-4-year-old:<br />
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<i><b>He knows that these things are real:</b></i><br />
Hippopotamus<br />
Fireflies<br />
Dinosaurs ("they were real a long, long time ago")<br />
Dragonflies<br />
God ("yeah, he's in heaven!") <------------ This answer made me smile!<br />
Presidents<br />
Policemen and Policewomen<br />
Alligators<br />
Castles<br />
George Washington<br />
Buffaloes<br />
California<br />
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He knows that these things are pretend:</b></i><br />
Dragons<br />
Magic<br />
Unicorns<br />
Monsters<br />
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He thinks that these (real) things are pretend:</b></i><br />
Princesses<br />
Robots<br />
Hearts<br />
Kings and Queens<br />
China<br />
Egypt<br />
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He didn't think that any of the pretend things on the list were real.</i></b>
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He couldn't pick an answer for these things:</i></b><br />
Rapunzel- "I don't know. What's that?"<br />
Goldilocks and the Three Bears- "Huh? Well, bears are real, but I don't know about the other thing."<br /><br />
I love the way his mind works. It looks like we are going to need some geography lessons and to read some classic fairy tales, haha! I'm surprised that he said that hearts are pretend, because he definitely knows how to draw hearts, and often reads books about the inside of the body that explain the function of the heart. I guess you just never know what to expect from a pre-schooler!<br />
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Btw, Ryan and his friends had a blast racing in these Cars characters that I made. (And I let them crash and "destroy" them at the end of the birthday party, which was probably even more fun!) The cars were super easy to make, made of recycled cardboard boxes, and definitely the highlight of the party!<br />
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More and more each year, I'm thinking that fall is becoming my favorite season. My favorite used to be summer, but now I look forward to the slightly cooler days, pumpkin picking, comfy boots, and the festive holidays coming up! Happy beginning of fall!<br />
<br /><!----------------><!----------------><!----------------></------------>Danahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14855399113878755637noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4638143399356762155.post-80352027493987422992014-07-03T09:00:00.000-04:002014-08-25T00:57:59.216-04:00Henry is 6 Months Old!To our sweet baby boy Henry,<br />
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I will never forget the day that I first held you in my arms and caught a glimpse of your bright red-orange hair. From the very start, I knew that you were going to be somebody special. In just a few short months, you have filled our house with an unbelievable amount of love and happiness. I can't wait to see what all you have in store for us in the upcoming years. You are already so amazing! We admire your laid-back, easy-going personality (completely the opposite from the rest of us) and how nothing at all seems to phase you. You just have this huge smile and adorable giggle that escapes from your sweet little mouth whenever somebody looks at you. You are a strong, both mentally and physically. You have taught us many lessons in what it means to have faith. Just the fact that you exist is a miracle in itself. Thank you for letting me love you completely and unconditionally. Happy Half Birthday!<br />
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Love,<br />
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Mommy<br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-large;"><b>We LoVe YoU, HeNrY MaTtHeW!!!</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-large;">Henry, 3 to 6 Months:</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Henry got his first two teeth at 7 and a half months old!</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>From Instagram. </i><i>follow me @ Dana52084.</i></span></div>
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Danahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14855399113878755637noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4638143399356762155.post-54768951075575877012014-07-02T00:09:00.000-04:002014-08-06T21:11:48.180-04:00What We've Been Up ToSo, it turns out that life with two kids is exactly everything that I had hoped it would be and more! Our little family has been happier than ever and spending lots of time outside, enjoying the warm weather. These past few months have flown by, but I will do my best to fill everything in.<br />
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In mid-May, we took a trip down to Florida to visit Barry's parents and grandparents, and to celebrate my 30th birthday at the Ritz-Carlton, Key Biscayne, where we got married 5 years ago. Wow! Has it really only been that long? Our wedding feels like an entire lifetime ago, and I feel older than 30. (Is that weird?) The gazebo where we said our vows is no longer there, so we just got a picture with the boys in the exact spot that it used to be. Still special, I guess. We got to eat at all of the restaurants and hang out at the beach/pool, which of course, flooded back all of the memories of our lovely wedding celebration. I've always felt blessed, but the fact that it was my 30th birthday and I had my wonderful boys there with me made me feel especially thankful. I can not imagine a more fulfilling life than the one that I have.<br />
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This trip brought a lot of firsts for baby Henry: first time on an airplane, at a hotel, at grandma/grandpa's house, in a pool, at the beach, etc. Our little guy took everything in stride and was an absolute pleasure to have along. His big brother Ryan was surprisingly agreeable and well-behaved the whole time too. (On a side note: Ryan is an amazing kid, as always, but age 3 has definitely been his most challenging year yet. It brought a lot of change for him and his unique personality is continuing to develop.) The one bad thing about vacations is the amount of STUFF that we have to bring for the kids and the hassle of getting it all packed and through the airport. But it was definitely worth all of the extra work for this memorable vacation!<br />
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Since we've been back home, we have mostly just been hanging out, doing playdates, attending social events, seeing family/friends, and going on day trips. I am grateful that we live in an area that has plenty of kid-friendly places to go, so that we never have to travel too far to find somewhere fun.<br />
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Ryan finished school a couple weeks ago, and I must say that, although I love his Montessori school, I <b>really, really, really</b> enjoy having both of the boys home with me for the whole day. We get to take our time in the mornings and participate in late morning activities that run into the afternoon, instead of having to rush to pick up Ryan at school. Plus, I honestly miss him a lot when he's at school. Looking at these before and after pictures make me realize just how much he has grown in the past 10 months:<br />
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I love both of these kids so much I think that my heart might burst! So far, they seem to be complete opposites when it comes to their personalities, complexions, and body build. <i>(Henry already wears 12 month clothing at not even 6 months old. Ryan will be 4 years old in September, but he just started wearing 3Ts, and they are loose)</i>. Well... they do say that opposites attract and it is already apparent that these guys care about each other very deeply. I can't wait until they are old enough to play together!<br />
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The rest of our summer will be filled with swim lessons, music together classes, playgroups, VBS, and plenty of trips to the parks and the beach that is 5 minutes from our house. We will be having some friends from out-of-state visit and stay with us next weekend. I will also be having my wisdom teeth taken out later this month. We somehow always manage to stay super busy, and it feels great to finally have all of my energy back because I love running all over the place with these two!<br />
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Danahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14855399113878755637noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4638143399356762155.post-75026676898705476032014-04-09T23:00:00.000-04:002014-05-08T22:14:03.604-04:00Skull Surgery<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Last Monday was our first experience at Children's National Medical Center in DC. We met with Dr. Keating, the neurosurgeon who would be doing Henry's surgery. Of course we were nervous, but we knew that this is what needed to be done. I'm sure that compared to all of the other surgeries that Dr. Keating performs on a regular basis, this would be considered minor. But still, when it involves your 3 month old baby, it is all very scary.<br />
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At the pre-op visit, Dr. Keating measured Henry's head and calculated the ratio of width to length (cephalic index) as 67. Anywhere from 75 to 83 is considered "normal". The goal is that the surgery and further natural head growth will eventually bring Henry into the "normal" ratio range. It will also ensure that he will not have any intracranial pressure in the future, and that his brain will continue to grow normally. After Henry's physical and his blood work all checked out, we were given the go ahead for the surgery. It still didn't feel real. </div>
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We arrived at the hospital bright and early on Thursday morning for the surgery. We received a thoughtful care package from Cranio Care Bears. My favorite item that they sent was a prayer chain made of ribbons with different inspirational quotes and verses on it. We ended up hanging it on Henry's hospital bed and it somehow made the experience a little more cheerful. I also loved the teddy bear with a bandage on his head.</div>
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I was surprised how happy Henry was that morning, considering that he was not allowed to eat for the past 9 hours. He is such a good-natured little guy. I held back all of my emotions as I dressed him into his tiny surgery gown and handed him over to the surgeons. It was all in God's control, as it always is.</div>
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I can't express how relieved I was when Dr. Keating came out and told us that Henry did just fine in surgery. But then I saw our swollen baby, looking so helpless, being wheeled from the operating room to the PICU. It completely broke my heart, but I felt so thankful at the same time.</div>
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Henry did remarkably well with the surgery itself and also with the recovery. He did have some swelling in his face on the first and second days, and he ran a fever on the second day. But aside from that, his incision was looking great and they sent us home on the third day. He has been a little cranky since we have been home, compared to his usually laid-back self, but for the most part, it doesn't even seem like he just had surgery!</div>
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Special thanks goes to my Aunt G, who stayed with Ryan for the first day and night, and also the second day, so that Barry could be with us in the hospital. Barry went home for the second night while I stayed there with Henry. </div>
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Ryan has been asking about the "boo boo" on Henry's head. He says to him, "Don't worry Henry, it will go away after a long time". It is endearing to see the concern that Ryan has for his baby brother. He has such a tender and loving heart. I am so proud of our big boy AND our little boy.</div>
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So... I can honestly say that the cosmetic results were better than we had even hoped for. I was shocked to see how round Henry's head looked immediately after we took the bandage off. Supposedly, his head should continue to grow in an even rounder shape in the upcoming months/years. I am very curious (and hopeful) to see what it looks like in the future. I think that it looks amazing already! In the pictures above, you can clearly see the dramatic difference. I must admit that I have never thought so much about a person's head shape in my life.</div>
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God has truly answered our prayers by protecting our sweet baby and giving him strength to get through the surgery and recover quickly. This was such a humbling experience.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">*UPDATES: 3 Weeks Post-Op*</span></div>
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Henry continues to do well and he is just as happy and laid-back as ever. At our 3 week post-op appointment today, Dr. Keating gave him an "A plus" for head shape! The surgery results really ended up being better than anybody expected.</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">*4 Weeks Post-Op*</span></div>
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Danahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14855399113878755637noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4638143399356762155.post-43882459724867306412014-03-30T19:00:00.000-04:002014-03-30T22:14:53.089-04:00About Our Baby's Head<span style="color: #222222;">When Henry was born, it was obvious that his head was not completely round. Of course, newborns often have strangely-shaped heads after making their way down the birth canal. And plenty of babies develop flat head syndrome (plagiocephaly) that can be fixed by wearing a helmet. But Henry’s condition is a little more serious than that.
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<span style="color: #222222;">A CT scan at 9 days old showed that one of the bones in Henry’s head had completely come together with another bone in his head. (These bones are called “sutures”.) This means that one of his soft spots had closed too early, while he was still in the womb. His head looks somewhat normal from the front, but you can definitely tell that the back of his head is pointy. The side view and top view show that his head is long and boat-shaped.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDXTTHuJ7TkcRffxaqPdjw1VV42u0jETlvjNXczPIWpwoHoQNGX7-yUBSGFlhdmev4N9M-jDdzJelMmWMdFDEtx06VsXWCgdsu83fPQP886efy1bysYIGTg-4xOwXTocUXNKeXpARjJNkM/s1600/Sagittal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDXTTHuJ7TkcRffxaqPdjw1VV42u0jETlvjNXczPIWpwoHoQNGX7-yUBSGFlhdmev4N9M-jDdzJelMmWMdFDEtx06VsXWCgdsu83fPQP886efy1bysYIGTg-4xOwXTocUXNKeXpARjJNkM/s1600/Sagittal.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Henry's fluffy hair generally hides the odd shape, but you can really see it in the bath pictures.</i></td></tr>
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<span style="color: #222222;">The good news is that Henry’s scan showed completely normal brain growth and his doctors do not believe that he has any increased intracranial pressure. However, as his brain grows more, his head NEEDS to be able to accommodate it. If his head isn’t able to grow in a normal, round shape, it could cause future intracranial pressure and development issues. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222;">So that is why our sweet little guy will be spending his <b>3 month birthday</b> in the hospital having surgery on his skull.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222;">While I am absolutely terrified to hand over our perfect baby to an operating room full of surgeons, I am trying my best to stay positive and focus on these things:</span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222;">1. Thankfully, the neurosurgeon does not feel that Henry needs the most invasive open-head surgery (cranial vault reconstruction). Instead, he will be performing a smaller-scale surgery called the pi procedure. This surgery should take less than an hour and will require a 2 or 3 night hospital stay.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222;">2. Although the surgery will leave Henry with a scar from ear-to-ear, the scar will eventually be covered up by his beautiful hair. (I was thrilled to find out that they will only be shaving a strip of his hair for the procedure, rather than his entire head!)</span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222;">3. Out of all of the types of craniosynostosis that exist (yes, that long, scary word is the official name of it) Henry has the mildest form. He has none of the syndromes that can sometimes occur with it. He only has one suture that closed (the sagittal one) instead of multiple sutures. The type that Henry has, non-syndromic craniosynostosis, is considered to be “an isolated condition in an otherwise normal child”.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222;">4. This condition is fixable and should not affect him severely for the rest of his life. Approximately 1 in 2,000 babies have this, and doctors have been successfully treating it and fixing it for decades. There are so many more serious illnesses and heart-breaking conditions that other children and their families have to suffer through. We are truly blessed, in that sense, that God gave us two very healthy children, and we will never take that for granted.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">When we first found out about this, one of my first questions was, “What caused it?” It is hypothesized that non-syndromic craniosynostosis is caused by fetal head constraint, meaning that his head got stuck in a weird position in the uterus and there was not enough room for it to grow in the correct shape. Some types of </span>craniosynostosis are linked to genetics, but those are generally the more severe cases that involve syndromes.</div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">Please send all of your most positive thoughts and prayers for our little one next week. Pray that the surgery goes smoothly, that he does not feel too much pain, that he recovers quickly and easily, and that he does not have to deal with any effects of this in the future (besides the scar, of course). At least he is young enough to, hopefully, never even remember the surgery itself. </span></i><br />
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<i>Also, please pray for Barry, Ryan, and myself, as we try to gather the inner strength to get through this week and next week. I know that the surgery is for the best, but I am scared that I won't be able to go through with it. Please pray that I can put my own feelings aside for the best interest of our child.</i></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ55_bq-IiugatuCWEQUm8tzhZ6esBiyCtn8cJ_zca0u9fQvtAkGDdeuH6OahIXnO1oKqFBRvRxexGGmUS0RKj6sXdF_-ixa5QYUOca3-KijDh3V7DsJeLrZ8i0cqcXNsrF7ryXfnqNUpg/s1600/side.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ55_bq-IiugatuCWEQUm8tzhZ6esBiyCtn8cJ_zca0u9fQvtAkGDdeuH6OahIXnO1oKqFBRvRxexGGmUS0RKj6sXdF_-ixa5QYUOca3-KijDh3V7DsJeLrZ8i0cqcXNsrF7ryXfnqNUpg/s1600/side.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>The pointy part of H's head is noticeable here.</i></td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">I have honestly had a difficult time talking about this, up until now. Talking and writing about it somehow makes it more real, and it was simply easier not to think about. It is crazy that we are now just a few days out. In my mind, our happy, easy-going baby is one hundred percent perfect, and the fact that he needs surgery is just so hard for me to wrap my head around. I mean, that little guy holds my <b>whole heart</b>. The thought of him feeling any kind of pain absolutely kills me. I hope that we are making the right decision and that we will be able to look back and see this as just another obstacle.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I guess what they say is true about life being a series of peaks and valleys. Thank you all for your support.</span><br />
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Danahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14855399113878755637noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4638143399356762155.post-26880698913759394622014-03-29T22:19:00.000-04:002014-03-29T22:19:00.043-04:00Brothers When They Were Babies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It is interesting how Ryan and Henry seem to have very different personalities and complexions, but you can definitely tell they are brothers… just look at their little faces! THEY MELT MY HEART. In these pictures, R is 4 months old and H is almost 3 months old.</div>
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And of course, we can't forget our fur baby, Lucky! He's the oldest brother. =)</div>
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Danahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14855399113878755637noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4638143399356762155.post-20368781314481354142014-03-17T20:38:00.000-04:002015-10-17T16:51:03.143-04:00St. Patrick's Day Playdate<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This past week, we invited some friends over to play. I love themed parties and St. Patrick's Day is always such a fun one to celebrate! Ryan was so eager waiting for all of his friends to arrive that he kept running up to the clock and trying to figure out what time it is. He finally decided to just keep asking me every 10 minutes or so. For the <i>entire</i> morning, of course.<br />
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I enjoy drinking a green smoothie every day for breakfast. You MUST try this one! It is quite delicious (Ryan considers it a dessert) and the ginger gives it the perfect amount of spice. In case you are unable to read the ingredients on the picture, just blend together: 2 handfuls of kale, 1 banana, 1 green apple/apple juice, 2 tbsp lemon juice, fresh ginger (a little goes a long way), 1/4 cup of water, and ice.<br />
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I made a "Pot O' Gold" filled with chocolate gold coins as a party favor for each guest to take home. The kids could also make moveable paper leprechauns and festive St. Patrick's Day cards with stickers. Between these activities and Ryan's toys, everyone seemed to be entertained and some of our small guests didn't even want to go home. It makes me happy that they were having a good time!<br />
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These two (and their daddy!) are my world. I couldn't feel any more blessed. I remember celebrating this holiday 3 years ago, when I was going through treatments, and I am so grateful for how far we have come since then. What a difference a few years make.<br />
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<br />Danahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14855399113878755637noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4638143399356762155.post-72674371739823720812014-02-14T20:25:00.000-05:002014-03-28T22:41:47.453-04:00A Month of Henry<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Our sweet baby Henry is already 6 weeks old!</span></i><br />
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This past month has flown by faster than any I have ever known. Henry is growing and gaining weight quickly, and is becoming more active and aware each day. He is already a very sweet boy who loves to cuddle in mommy's arms. He is a great eater and an even better sleeper!</div>
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We have already had two photo shoots, several doctors appointments, a few visitors, and one big snowstorm. Henry has already outgrown all of his newborn clothes and is on the verge of outgrowing his Lil Joey diapers.</div>
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This past weekend, Barry's parents flew up from Florida to visit. They spent some time with the boys while I went in for my PET scan on Monday. I was super nervous waiting to hear back the results. It was right after my first pregnancy when I was diagnosed with breast cancer. My worst fear right now would be a recurrence. Thankfully, my PET scan this time was completely clear! Only by the grace of God!<br />
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I will be going in to see my oncologist next week, for a physical and to talk about some discomfort that I have been having in my arm and leg. I have a sharp pain that comes and goes randomly in my leg, with various intensity. My right arm is achy and radiating warmth from the inside. I am sure that my oncologist will be able to help me, regardless.<br />
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I am celebrating the fact that I am still cancer-free after three years. It feels like a miracle that I can go on to have such a blessed life after all that I have been through. I am so happy with my life, my husband, and my two beautiful boys. It truly doesn't get any better than this!<br />
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Please be sure to follow me on Instagram, @dana52084. I post there much more regularly than I do on this blog, since it's easier to do from my phone. Here are some recent Instagram pics:<br />
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<br />Danahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14855399113878755637noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4638143399356762155.post-26517091605099494472014-01-16T17:36:00.001-05:002014-01-16T17:50:26.839-05:00Henry Matthew's Birth<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: xx-large;"><b>Ready to Go!</b></span></div>
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There was a pretty bad snowstorm the night before, so I ended up spending the night at the hospital by myself the night of the induction. Barry came early the next morning, and after only a few short hours of labor (and less than 20 minutes of pushing) our sweet Henry was born!<br />
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Our baby boy, Henry Matthew, was born on January 3, 2014 at 11:34 am, at 7 lbs 5 oz and 20 inches long. <i>This was Henry in the first few seconds of life...</i><br />
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Ryan came to the hospital to meet his brother the next day, and then again the following morning, before we went home. It was such a special moment for me to see my boys together for the first time. These pictures are so precious to me. My heart is full. xoxo<br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-large;"><b>First "real" bath</b></span></div>
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Although he got sponge baths at the hospital and after we got home, it wasn't until his belly button stump fell off (11 days old) that Henry got to take his first "real" bath. He wasn't exactly a fan of the water, but he sure did look cute afterwards!<br />
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Danahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14855399113878755637noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4638143399356762155.post-72409713393159226662014-01-01T19:13:00.000-05:002014-01-01T19:24:37.669-05:00Interview with our Big BoyI thought that it would be fun to interview Ryan every January, ask him the same list of questions, and see how his answers change throughout the years. I already enjoy looking back on his video from last year and seeing how much he has grown since then. I absolutely adore this little guy! <br />
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<u><span style="font-size: xx-large;">Ryan's 3 Year Old Interview (January 2014)</span></u></div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="312" mozallowfullscreen="" src="//player.vimeo.com/video/83190847" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="550"></iframe><br /></div>
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<b>1. How old are you?</b> 3 (pronounced "tree")<br />
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<b>2. Who is your best friend?</b> Lucky</div>
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<b>3. What is your favorite color? </b> Red </div>
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<b>4. What is your favorite book?</b> The spaceship book</div>
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<b>5. Describe your perfect day.</b> Play with cars, run, play with Lucky, sit on mommy's lap, hugs, kisses, build a snowman, look out the windows at ladybugs, play with Henry, wait for the food- pizza and macaroni</div>
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<b>6. What is your favorite place and why?</b> Bowling alley because I like to bowl</div>
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<b>7. What would you never do as an adult?</b> I don't want to do crying</div>
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<b>8. Where do you want to work when you grow up? </b> In Maryland. Work… fold clothes.</div>
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<b>9. What is your favorite thing to do for fun?</b> Play with daddy</div>
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<b>10. Tell me a joke. </b>"A color eating a mullor"</div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-large;"><u>Ryan's 2 Year Old Interview (January 2013)</u></span></div>
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<b>1. How old are you?</b> 2<br />
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<b>2. Who is your best friend?</b> Mater and Lightning McQueen</div>
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<b>3. What is your favorite color? </b> Red (like Lightning McQueen)</div>
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<b>4. What is your favorite book?</b> <u>Race Team</u> by Dennis R. Shealy</div>
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<b>5. Describe your perfect day.</b> Police car, Digger, Dump Truck, all of the cars in there.</div>
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<b>6. What is your favorite place and why?</b> Pool. It's so nice.</div>
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<b>7. What would you never do as an adult?</b> Need a cake.</div>
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<b>8. Where do you want to work when you grow up? </b> At a bank and eat pizza there.</div>
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<b>9. What is your favorite thing to do for fun?</b> Play at school. Share with Gavin and Miles.</div>
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<b>10. Tell me a joke. </b> (Pretends to laugh and does a funny movement).<br />
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Danahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14855399113878755637noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4638143399356762155.post-69542310432522785512014-01-01T10:45:00.000-05:002014-01-01T19:00:36.809-05:00Pregnancy: Week 39<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTlcyYH-ykXk191LIF4yvHyHpKGQhivDvK9BbEARcBtuyQqnX-lr7nno5NR45TGF_o8m-gUt8HlN7oNPGVqo8W8vPPyh8I98R9iRs9VDQsYZnME4lvKZN1AZyB_SrwouHUHhNSzUmyTaKF/s1600/39+week+chalkboard+w.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTlcyYH-ykXk191LIF4yvHyHpKGQhivDvK9BbEARcBtuyQqnX-lr7nno5NR45TGF_o8m-gUt8HlN7oNPGVqo8W8vPPyh8I98R9iRs9VDQsYZnME4lvKZN1AZyB_SrwouHUHhNSzUmyTaKF/s1600/39+week+chalkboard+w.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>This is just one corner of the completed nursery. I will post more pictures of the entire room later on. </i><br />
<i>We spent a lot of time working on it throughout the past week and I am so relieved that it is finally done!</i></td></tr>
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<b><u><span style="font-size: xx-large;">Week 39:</span></u></b><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP2MjpCksWlZGRtTlpuwTGvR8BN1weV6ft0dMNzUU38PjtW3zdqOwB5NzPgPZ6KVUKGeqhIMkEG87p-gASXiAaNHYSuYqKnFYgEPjkjWvX8TRXi1FPks5On9rhZQPAN3Hm1lgymTjpCnZN/s1600/039.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP2MjpCksWlZGRtTlpuwTGvR8BN1weV6ft0dMNzUU38PjtW3zdqOwB5NzPgPZ6KVUKGeqhIMkEG87p-gASXiAaNHYSuYqKnFYgEPjkjWvX8TRXi1FPks5On9rhZQPAN3Hm1lgymTjpCnZN/s400/039.jpg" width="208" /></a><b>Baby’s development:</b><br />
-baby continues to gain more body fat<br />
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<b>Pregnancy symptoms: </b><br />
-heartburn<br />
-backache/pain<br />
-difficult to get myself up from a sitting or laying down position<br />
-belly feels super heavy unless I support the bottom of it<br />
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<b>Cravings:</b><br />
-no real cravings at this point, but desserts taste much better than they do when I am not pregnant<br />
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<b>Aversions:</b><br />
none<br />
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<b>Movement:</b><br />
still having constant movements, but they are slower/longer<br />
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<b>Gender: </b>boy<br />
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<b>Total weight gain/loss:</b> +38<br />
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<b>Belly button in or out?</b> out<br />
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<b>Best moment of the week:</b> finishing the nursery<br />
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<b>Looking forward to:</b> holding, kissing, and cuddling baby Henry… of course!!!<br />
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I have been giving myself lovenox/heparin shots twice a day to lower the risk of blood clots. The blood thinners need to be stopped a certain number of hours before labor, so I will be having a scheduled induction tomorrow evening through Friday afternoon/evening. Please keep us in your thoughts and prayers as we welcome baby Henry!<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: xx-large;">Last Days as an Only Child</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-large;"><b>Belly Pics (Week 9 to 39)</b></span></div>
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<br />Danahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14855399113878755637noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4638143399356762155.post-71755977119255883552013-12-28T18:48:00.000-05:002014-03-25T01:37:38.604-04:00Our Family of 3<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We have been a family of 3 for a little over three years, and in a few short days, we will become a family of 4. It feels strange to think of another little person joining us.. permanently.. forever. I am beyond thrilled and excited to welcome little baby Henry into our lives, but also nervous about how Ryan will adjust to no longer being the "only child" who receives all of our undivided attention. Lately, he has been acting different towards me, giving me extra hugs and kisses and cuddles. I never want to forget exactly how he is now. As much as he tries to be a big boy, he is still a baby inside and he will always be MY baby. I never want him to feel like he isn't as important or loved as much because of the new baby. He is absolutely perfect in my eyes, and he will never ever understand how deeply I love him. I love him so much that it scares me, and it honestly makes me cry when I really think about it. I can not imagine what life will be like with two. I do know that Ryan will always hold a very special place in my heart, and that while I will love them both equally, I will also love them in completely different ways. I absolutely can't wait to get to know Henry, his personality, and who he is as a person. I am overwhelmed with how blessed I am to be the mommy of these two little guys and I am very grateful for this life.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Big Brother Gift</b></span></div>
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I put together a big brother gift for Ryan to open when he comes to visit the hospital and meets his little brother for the first time. I included several books about how cool it is to be a big brother, a sticker book, activity book, race car, dinosaur, and a camera. (<i>He actually already had the camera, but I just threw it in the bag so that he can take his own pictures at the hospital.) </i>I also added some of Ryan's favorite snacks that he doesn't usually get to eat: fruit snacks and chips. I am eager to see how he reacts to his gift and how he handles everything that day. I want to be sure to give Ryan plenty of attention and to make it a very positive experience for him. I'm sure that Ryan will enjoy being a big brother once Henry gets a little older, but I feel like it may be a difficult adjustment at first. I believe that in the long run, giving him a sibling is the best gift that we can give, because that unbreakable bond will last throughout their whole lives and they will always have a built-in support system.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>What We Have Been Up To</b></span></div>
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We celebrated the holidays (Hanukkah and Christmas), enjoyed a special visit from two of my best friends, E and K (who lives in California), took part in our annual gift exchange with cousins, attended several holiday parties, and Ryan even got to sit in Santa Claus' lap 3 times this year. Each time, he confidently told Santa exactly what he wanted: a rocket ship, a dragon, an airplane, cars, a letter matching game, and books. Ryan must have been a very good boy this year, because he ended up getting EVERYTHING that he asked for. ;-)<br />
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Just a few weeks ago, we finally got enough snow to go outside and play behind our house! Ryan had been waiting for this day for a long time. We built a snowman, gave him a hat, scarf, and face, and threw a bunch of snowballs at the fence. Looking back, I realize that these may be some of the last pictures of us all as a family of 3. I'm treasuring these moments, although I'm sure that that the future will hold some even more amazing ones. Here's to looking ahead to a wonderful 2014!<br />
<br />Danahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14855399113878755637noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4638143399356762155.post-36556447184267449202013-12-18T23:21:00.001-05:002014-03-25T01:42:44.929-04:00Pregnancy: Weeks 36 & 37<b><u><span style="font-size: x-large;">Week 36:</span></u></b><br />
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<b>Baby’s development:</b><br />
-immune system is fully developed<br />
-baby continues to gain more body fat<br />
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<b>Pregnancy symptoms: </b><br />
-heartburn<br />
-backache/pain<br />
-heavy feeling/pressure<br />
-general uncomfortableness<br />
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<b>Cravings:</b><br />
just hungry in general<br />
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<b>Aversions:</b><br />
none<br />
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<b>Movement:</b><br />
lots of strong movements.. it feels like I am getting bruises on the inside of my tummy!<br />
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<b>Gender: </b>boy<br />
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<b>Total weight gain/loss:</b> +35<br />
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<b>Belly button in or out?</b> out<br />
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<b>Best moment of the week:</b> When my sweet friends surprised me with two "sprinkles!" (baby showers)<br />
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<b>Looking forward to:</b> Meeting baby Henry very soon!!!<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Baby Sprinkles</span></b></div>
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Thank you to all of our dear friends who made us feel so special! Even Ryan got some extra attention for his soon-to-be big brother status.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ryan loves his big brother gifts!</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Latest Ultrasound</b></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">According to the doctors, everything is measuring normal and looking good.<br />
I think that Henry is looking smushed in there and ready to come out! Can't wait!!</td></tr>
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<br />Danahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14855399113878755637noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4638143399356762155.post-39854738845854784752013-11-30T18:57:00.001-05:002015-10-17T17:08:39.187-04:00Teaching Young Children about Compassion<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We all want our children to learn that it is better to give than to receive and the importance of putting others first. But sometimes it is difficult for our toddlers and pre-schoolers to look beyond themselves. Instead of giving in to the mindset of consumerism ("it's all about me") this holiday season, how about we work with our little ones on understanding the concepts of compassion and empathy? These are traits that all of us should be constantly striving towards.<br />
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Here are some books that can act as starting points for discussions on considering other people's perspectives and showing kindness on a regular basis.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">1. <u>Have You Filled a Bucket Today?</u> by Carol McCloud</span></b><br />
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This book introduces kindness as a metaphor that young children can visualize. It says that everyone in the world carries an invisible bucket that can be either filled or emptied by other people. If we show love to someone, it fills their bucket and makes them feel happy. If we ignore them or say mean things, it empties their bucket and makes them feel sad. This book provides examples that a pre-school aged child can relate to about how to be a “bucket-filler” and not a “bucket-dipper”.<br />
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I started reading this with Ryan when he was two years old. He understood the concept well enough to remember what it means to be a “bucket-filler” and to apply it to real-life situations. For example, if we noticed that a friend looked sad, I would ask Ryan, <i>What could you do right now to fill your friend's bucket?</i> and he would answer something simple like, <i>Share a toy with her</i> or <i>Give her a hug</i>.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">2. <u>How Full is Your Bucket? For Kids</u> by Tom Rath</span></b><br />
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This book continues to teach the idea that each person has an invisible bucket. The concept is taken to a deeper level through descriptions of slightly more complex situations, specifically at school. I would say that this book is at the perfect level of understanding for older pre-schoolers or kindergarteners. However, I think that it is still worthwhile to read this book with my three year old and to discuss the situations with him. He seems to enjoy reading about how the "big kids" act.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">3. <u>Stand in My Shoes: Kids Learning About Empathy</u> by Bob Sornson</span></b><br />
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This book focuses on empathy and encouraging children to imagine what another person might be feeling. Since young children are generally focused solely on their own feelings, noticing how another person feels is huge deal. I like that this book encourages young children to start thinking outside of themselves in everyday situations. It reinforces positive things that Ryan already naturally does, such as helping somebody to clean up if they spill something and showing concern when somebody is hurt, while also suggesting new ways to practice this concept.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">4. <u>Good People Everywhere</u> by Lynea Gillen and Kristina Swarner </span></b><br />
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This book builds appreciation for various jobs that people do throughout our community. After reading this book, I feel like Ryan values these helpers more, and even notices the little things that mommy and daddy does for him around the house. There is a part that talks about cooks "working in kitchens, making meals for people who don't have homes". This immediately prompted Ryan to start asking questions and sparked a discussion about what it means to be homeless and hungry. This book seemed to opened up his mind to start thinking about good and helpful things that <b>he</b> can do.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">5. <u>Our Peaceful Classroom</u> by Aline D. Wolf and Montessori School Children Worldwide</span></b><br />
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This book describes how to be considerate and peaceful while at school. Since a lot of children’s books depict a traditional classroom setting, it was fun for Ryan read a book that he could actually relate to his Montessori classroom. He immediately recognized the specific materials that he works with at school, such as the pink tower, brown stairs, taking care of classroom plants and pets, pouring materials, flags of different countries, materials from around the world, and the Matreshka nesting dolls.<br />
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This book also talks about the importance of sharing, taking turns, speaking using kind words, making friends with those who are alone, using hands for helping instead of hurting, picking up trash, and and sorting trash for recycling. It also provides some facts about Maria Montessori and her philosophy. It would be a great addition to any primary Montessori classroom.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Showing Compassion</span></b></div>
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I believe that living by example and demonstrating what it means to have a giving heart are the best things that we can do to help our children learn compassion. They look up to us and imitate what we do, so naturally, compassionate parents tend to raise compassionate kids.<br />
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I'm sure that you have all heard of random acts of kindness and paying it forward. These are wonderful things to do with children because, not only are they fun, but they teach them practical ways to serve others. I think that the holiday season is a good time to begin working on understanding and prioritizing these values.<br />
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<i>Here are a few activities that several other mommies and I came up with:</i><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">1. Collect old towels/blankets for an animal shelter</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">2. Donate books to a library</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">3. Donate canned goods to a food bank</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">4. Take art supplies and stuffed animals to the children's floor of the hospital</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">5. Pick out clothes and toys for a needy family and help with wrapping the presents</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">6. Make a meal or bake cookies for a sick friend, a new mom, neighbor, baby-sitter, mailman, garbage collector, crossing guard, etc.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">7. Write thank you notes/cards and send them to troops, fire fighters, police officers, etc.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">8. Decorate holiday cards and pass them out to those in assisted living and elderly homes</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">9. Hand out balloons to kids at a grocery store or Target</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">10. Hide dollars in the toy section at the dollar store</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">11. Feed parking meters</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">12. Leave candy canes on cars in the parking lot at school or a store</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">13. Bring hot cocoa to kids at bus stop or anyone else standing outside</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">14. Pay for the person behind you at the drive-through or coffee shop</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">15. Clean up litter in the neighborhood and sort the recyclables</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">16. Make or buy a wreathe or holiday ornament for a neighbor</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">17. Help out with a chore that you don't normally do</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">18. Walk someone else's dog</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">19. Bring flowers or homemade gifts to a teacher, helper, or relative</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">20. Attend a friend's special performance and cheer him/her on with handmade posters</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">A Few More Ideas...</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>Sponsor a Child</i></b></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixMQi7xl88eH3XriV1diZ7TlB0n59Tk607WaCLoWyEzqZBDp18EdAJDVX8dhS-Bo9uPOkW99CtpECu-c71FLtG3_vKjPNp-G6Tuqg0SFXc-F7QlnxTl7cG5ljyZEVa5v_0eDKcQiCvC1A9/s1600/08.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixMQi7xl88eH3XriV1diZ7TlB0n59Tk607WaCLoWyEzqZBDp18EdAJDVX8dhS-Bo9uPOkW99CtpECu-c71FLtG3_vKjPNp-G6Tuqg0SFXc-F7QlnxTl7cG5ljyZEVa5v_0eDKcQiCvC1A9/s1600/08.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>We have enjoyed writing letters back and forth to Peter, who lives in Zambia and has </i><br />
<i>the exact </i><i>same birthday as Ryan. It has been fun to watch Peter grow, through </i><br />
<i>pictures, over the</i><i> past few years, </i><i>and to know that we are making a difference.</i></td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>Send Shoebox Gifts to Needy Children</i></b></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjInzlecZ8FGJ6saPy8ZVhSufsJkDl05HuWHzAQiIevND0zDMY0-YhJQwb35j_HswV2RXOluhbQmvBRNN13WZxxr5qYD0F_cd2A68qAV_2BUar6jb-j3txp9qnnZiuO3rU6EUu-U-BgB8Tu/s1600/shoebox.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjInzlecZ8FGJ6saPy8ZVhSufsJkDl05HuWHzAQiIevND0zDMY0-YhJQwb35j_HswV2RXOluhbQmvBRNN13WZxxr5qYD0F_cd2A68qAV_2BUar6jb-j3txp9qnnZiuO3rU6EUu-U-BgB8Tu/s1600/shoebox.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>When Ryan found out that some children do not have any toys and their parents do not have money to buy them presents, he was very eager and excited to pick out a few small tokens to send to a needy child.</i></td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>Pray for Others and Thank God for Blessings</i></b></span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIAk67L5d-lnAjjA7AmLfMWH8hL09aE5zUiTtIf_ZSTCz4tGAMCg7rtjoaalLyIVKGPrT4R0A5BdpnNtF0gDd_eJN6NXhtjQFDaT-PDhkrCjLmmp0zwInAsx2TOOc7sP4xvud4yfQnJXpv/s1600/07.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIAk67L5d-lnAjjA7AmLfMWH8hL09aE5zUiTtIf_ZSTCz4tGAMCg7rtjoaalLyIVKGPrT4R0A5BdpnNtF0gDd_eJN6NXhtjQFDaT-PDhkrCjLmmp0zwInAsx2TOOc7sP4xvud4yfQnJXpv/s1600/07.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Ryan is beginning to understand what it means to talk to God and to sincerely pray for the people </i><br />
<i>that he cares about. I love watching his little heart grow with compassion for others.</i></td></tr>
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<br />Danahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14855399113878755637noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4638143399356762155.post-1162488375684983932013-11-27T22:48:00.000-05:002014-03-28T22:48:50.162-04:00Thanksgiving Themed Playdate (round 2)We had a blast hosting a Thanksgiving-themed playdate for the second year in a row!<br />
<br />
It was so nice to gather together with our new friends that we have met since we moved here. Everyone has been so welcoming towards us and we feel blessed to live in a neighborhood that is filled with lots of children. I think that it will be such a great experience for Ryan and Henry to grow up surrounded by friends and a family-centered atmosphere.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVQHctXO8p03bsjYDtRx9HjPyzvv0ehDvwFtOgEPEFbP7lZdqeLNi0W48AocEpdNbG4zNkhAUHYTXYH3gtcfwCd8w5_e8AE-6UkUxBcaaqQXN_HZQ2Vk4c9ZJ8AKnWwYhnfGZgUQEMZhco/s1600/thanksgiving+01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVQHctXO8p03bsjYDtRx9HjPyzvv0ehDvwFtOgEPEFbP7lZdqeLNi0W48AocEpdNbG4zNkhAUHYTXYH3gtcfwCd8w5_e8AE-6UkUxBcaaqQXN_HZQ2Vk4c9ZJ8AKnWwYhnfGZgUQEMZhco/s1600/thanksgiving+01.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Thanksgiving Treats </b></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHh_z9SCuupfAXKlZHyjLOJiL19gpJGXjr_vwgHZdLwexXfeeYwl_J7MUzdJsvN4a5ur8yu43AaF3xESQRF9K1iI2kAsTtmQZ1CchhIsnu8mtfNhUk5u-7Kn-KchK_rejw5IgRMsvyXjca/s1600/thanksgiving+02.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHh_z9SCuupfAXKlZHyjLOJiL19gpJGXjr_vwgHZdLwexXfeeYwl_J7MUzdJsvN4a5ur8yu43AaF3xESQRF9K1iI2kAsTtmQZ1CchhIsnu8mtfNhUk5u-7Kn-KchK_rejw5IgRMsvyXjca/s1600/thanksgiving+02.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: x-small;">1. turkey sandwiches with cranberry jelly 2. orzo pasta with a random assortment of veggies 3. fresh strawberries and cranberries 4. acorns: donut holes, chocolate sprinkles, and pretzel sticks 5. pumpkin pie dip with apples and nilla wafers (recipe from <a href="http://www.tablespoon.com/recipes/pumpkin-pie-dip/23782dbc-2ee7-449b-bc85-fe51539ac62f">girlwhoateeverything</a>) 6. fruit turkey: pear, grapes, blueberries, cheese for nose and legs 7. snack mix with bugles, pretzels, m & m's, dried cherries 8. goody bag with pirates booty and fall stickers 9. turkey cookie pops: vanilla oreo, ritz cracker, candy eyeballs, candy corn</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Crafts/Activities</b></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKIVgVxESElNzPu9o1KUfRdpWthrTiBFWcjSV3u0eAvF92KGuTfb565SvOA4mgfr08DYzeMY41ugk5Cb4sB2jcyieadEzmCgQlXk5hMsf5YuhvFGyRvM0QB2TszMs37rQ0RGtJ-c3hOdG2/s1600/thanksgiving+03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKIVgVxESElNzPu9o1KUfRdpWthrTiBFWcjSV3u0eAvF92KGuTfb565SvOA4mgfr08DYzeMY41ugk5Cb4sB2jcyieadEzmCgQlXk5hMsf5YuhvFGyRvM0QB2TszMs37rQ0RGtJ-c3hOdG2/s1600/thanksgiving+03.jpg" /></a></div>
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The little guys decorated turkeys with foam stickers and colored Thanksgiving masks. Most of their time was spent eating and running around the house playing with Ryan's toys and train table. They wouldn't really slow down long enough to snap a decent picture, but at least we got a few pictures of the moms. It was such a fun afternoon!<br />
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We are looking forward to seeing a bunch of family tomorrow on Thanksgiving Day and eating lots of food at my aunt's Thanksgiving feast. <span style="font-size: large;">Happy Thanksgiving to you all!!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Ryan and his Cousins on Thanksgiving</b></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7ZeqTlaeL_mZ-VhgwWjKJm9PEfQJppi7EMrSWyQweWfpTY_F7ai5rHUiIfG9o9-0IWBqlQUPm77eCMCpTrb9rW54QUFTF2CH1xzSkpdKpzWxJC-e9dA3H_cNs5lhlxV9mIwfnOCBVGaBa/s1600/Thanksgiving+2013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7ZeqTlaeL_mZ-VhgwWjKJm9PEfQJppi7EMrSWyQweWfpTY_F7ai5rHUiIfG9o9-0IWBqlQUPm77eCMCpTrb9rW54QUFTF2CH1xzSkpdKpzWxJC-e9dA3H_cNs5lhlxV9mIwfnOCBVGaBa/s1600/Thanksgiving+2013.jpg" /></a></div>
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Danahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14855399113878755637noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4638143399356762155.post-53865563883678209712013-11-13T23:36:00.001-05:002014-03-28T22:52:26.719-04:00Pregnancy: Week 32 and Lovenox<b><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Week 32:</span></u></b><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqnU0iqeF9-uwTmPCmdlLopzIFRfsRMM0MJsQ8j0zIWVtmWcqDwnGue4wqnA1l-pYO2nlV3s6FV_mgF9hDWRD5w7Yu43Yn0O9x5ZwHBFl4mi_1-sxopHOUPC0kd6Kc7undF1d2JIWKrb8j/s1600/032.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqnU0iqeF9-uwTmPCmdlLopzIFRfsRMM0MJsQ8j0zIWVtmWcqDwnGue4wqnA1l-pYO2nlV3s6FV_mgF9hDWRD5w7Yu43Yn0O9x5ZwHBFl4mi_1-sxopHOUPC0kd6Kc7undF1d2JIWKrb8j/s400/032.jpg" height="400" width="208" /></a><br />
<b>Baby’s development:</b><br />
-brain is taking on its characteristic grooves and indentations<br />
-bone marrow has taken over production of red blood cells<br />
-baby’s wrinkled skin is smoothing out<br />
-lanugo is disappearing<br />
-baby is gaining more body fat<br />
-sleeping in cycles of 20 to 40 minutes<br />
-looking more like a newborn<br />
<br />
<b>Pregnancy symptoms:</b><br />
-heartburn, pretty much all of the time<br />
-backache/pain<br />
-general uncomfortableness when I try to move from sitting to standing, laying to sitting, rolling over, etc.<br />
-insomnia (REALLY hoping that this doesn't continue, but it is not a surprise for me to have sleep problems)<br />
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<b>Cravings:</b><br />
-chocolate chip flavored Greek Yogurt<br />
-sweet potatoes<br />
-anything pumpkin flavored<br />
-cashews<br />
-sweet drinks (which I normally dislike)<br />
-certain smells (I never knew that it was possible to crave smells!)<br />
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<b>Aversions:</b><br />
-none<br />
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<b>Movement:</b><br />
-yes, all of the time! I sometimes wonder what he is doing in there. It feels like an earthquake and shakes my whole body.<br />
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<b>Gender: </b>boy<br />
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<b>Total weight gain/loss:</b> +27<br />
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<b>Belly button in or out?</b> it's an outtie now<br />
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<b>Best moment of the week:</b> having success with giving myself shots, since I was really nervous (more about that below...)<br />
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<b>Looking forward to:</b> getting our basement finished this week and the new floors put in<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7orUv1bCJ-ghyYJo59jmlLBIpzmdHL1mxlEGyp1d_y3n2hEtmca4Warxojhmm5QVAM6UXWV0BQjfm0nc3ZgWekQrcFvUfHUuNxyy9i0Lpx812pDs1cfZ0RA7BqbZnwjR9uzEjACTSZuRg/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7orUv1bCJ-ghyYJo59jmlLBIpzmdHL1mxlEGyp1d_y3n2hEtmca4Warxojhmm5QVAM6UXWV0BQjfm0nc3ZgWekQrcFvUfHUuNxyy9i0Lpx812pDs1cfZ0RA7BqbZnwjR9uzEjACTSZuRg/s320/2.jpg" height="320" width="230" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My tummy is getting huge! I feel like I am running out of room, especially when I sit down.</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Lovenox Shots</b></span></div>
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Those of you who have been following my blog for a while may remember back when I was hospitalized for blood clots and pulmonary embolisms, during the same time that I was getting chemotherapy. (See <a href="http://danaspinkribbon.blogspot.com/2011/02/please-pray-that-i-can-go-home-soon.html">this post</a> and <a href="http://danaspinkribbon.blogspot.com/2011/02/my-mom-cheered-me-up-by-giving-me-these.html">this post</a> about it). After being on liquid IV antibiotics and Lovenox shots for several weeks, I was finally allowed to switch to a pill called Coumadin, which I was on for about a year and a half. Since last winter, I have only needed to take baby Aspirin to keep my blood thin enough from clotting. However… </div>
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Late pregnancy, labor/delivery, and the time immediately following delivery are known “triggers” for blood clots, especially if you have already had them before. Blood clots and PE’s are extremely dangerous for mommy and baby, so my OB believes that it is absolutely necessary for me to be on stronger medication to prevent them. Since Coumadin is not safe for pregnancy, I will now be on Lovenox shots for the remainder of the pregnancy and the week following delivery. (See <a href="http://danaspinkribbon.blogspot.com/2011/02/stressed.html">this post </a>about needle phobia). </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1ZsRz2QscHZ04oW3vPpa_bbXGGChHZ-ViVbjiKvJ3pqej5jPv43fvMV-TYdtED5XDCcyjIRoxkqfkvTtr1INeBkDzlpkAoGx3mVISWe8JnqyvZtdSlIJflaCPJ89kzeWAuoZ5YTLZrbL0/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1ZsRz2QscHZ04oW3vPpa_bbXGGChHZ-ViVbjiKvJ3pqej5jPv43fvMV-TYdtED5XDCcyjIRoxkqfkvTtr1INeBkDzlpkAoGx3mVISWe8JnqyvZtdSlIJflaCPJ89kzeWAuoZ5YTLZrbL0/s1600/3.jpg" /></a></div>
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I have already started the shots, and have successfully injected them into the sides of my tummy every night for the past week. During the final week of pregnancy, I will need to start giving myself the shots twice a day, instead of only once, and it will be Heparin instead of Lovenox, because Heparin leaves your bloodstream more quickly and is safer for delivery and getting an epidural.</div>
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This means that, so far, I’ve got <b><i>7 down and 64 more shots to go</i></b>!</div>
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Okay, so honestly, it takes a while before you get used to voluntarily stabbing yourself with a needle and accepting the burning and stinging sensation that occurs for the next 10 minutes as the medication enters into your bloodstream. But, if all of my experiences have taught me anything, it is that sometimes you have to just suck it up and do things that are unpleasant, simply because you have to. </div>
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It really depends on a person’s perspective. If you would have told me two years ago that ALL I had to do was take a shot a day, and then I would get to live life like a normal person and even have another baby (my biggest dream and passion!) I would have not believed you, because that sounded too simple and too good to be true. The torturous chemo side effects, weakness, fatigue, inability to walk, and excruciating mastectomy pain seemed to be never-ending, and my biggest hope was to just not die. I had to focus all of my concentration on suffering through each obstacle, and therefore, any other dreams/goals that I might have had were distant and seemed completely unreachable. </div>
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But now, I am blessed with a new life that is far better than what I had before or could have ever imagined. I thank God every day for that. I would gladly inject myself with millions of shots for the rest of my life to ensure my health and the health of my babies/family. The 4 of us will have many exciting times and big changes coming up in the very near future. Please pray for us that we adjust well and stay healthy! </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><b>Belly Pics</b></span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdtQbV9ilwMTwX2mcuxeeuyDLq57LO-zNZPOq6NhcsViPttR3-uZs6wHW19PKe4Z-LnQ989WOTB7iz5clTbcofIo70TTsGATZqVtLNN7IgaraIzPTDUgpWUyLh_DTBp_T8V9stykXbpzNV/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdtQbV9ilwMTwX2mcuxeeuyDLq57LO-zNZPOq6NhcsViPttR3-uZs6wHW19PKe4Z-LnQ989WOTB7iz5clTbcofIo70TTsGATZqVtLNN7IgaraIzPTDUgpWUyLh_DTBp_T8V9stykXbpzNV/s1600/4.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I can't imagine how big my tummy will look after 8 more weeks! Ahh!</td></tr>
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Danahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14855399113878755637noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4638143399356762155.post-2670259748405370902013-10-25T14:46:00.000-04:002013-10-25T14:46:09.122-04:00Pregnancy: Weeks 24 & 28<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: xx-large;"><b><span style="color: #674ea7;">P</span><span style="color: #3d85c6;">r</span><span style="color: #6aa84f;">e</span><span style="color: #a64d79;">g</span><span style="color: #674ea7;">n</span><span style="color: #3d85c6;">a</span><span style="color: #6aa84f;">n</span><span style="color: #a64d79;">c</span><span style="color: #674ea7;">y</span> <span style="color: #3d85c6;">U</span><span style="color: #6aa84f;">p</span><span style="color: #a64d79;">d</span><span style="color: #674ea7;">a</span><span style="color: #3d85c6;">t</span><span style="color: #6aa84f;">e</span></b></span></div>
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I haven't had time to document every single week like I originally thought I would, so I decided that I will only be updating every 4 weeks for the remainder of the pregnancy. It will be a lot easier to keep up with that way, and I will still have something to look back on later. I feel like this pregnancy is flying by so much more quickly than my first!</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>The following pictures were all taken within the last few weeks</i></span><span style="font-size: large;"><i>:</i></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ1idWJn_4UB2XB55oaPnpMSA4E-eZnCinUNbK2Ubk3erCbJxs39IPForq5c4mER8aIuNQYvZUofGLU3xg1B3eJ8bB3ZOwIwOfG9WRYvomu2tX_qM6xjpSgVv4vPn_bxWPL7oksUg9hI7u/s1600/27+weeks+pregnancy+update.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ1idWJn_4UB2XB55oaPnpMSA4E-eZnCinUNbK2Ubk3erCbJxs39IPForq5c4mER8aIuNQYvZUofGLU3xg1B3eJ8bB3ZOwIwOfG9WRYvomu2tX_qM6xjpSgVv4vPn_bxWPL7oksUg9hI7u/s1600/27+weeks+pregnancy+update.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>The top pictures are from our most recent family vacation to Florida. </i><br />
<i>(In the first one, Ryan is pretending that there is a baby in his belly too! hehe.) </i><br />
<i>In the bottom pictures, notice my rapidly growing belly. What a difference a couple of weeks makes!</i></td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz7Dgb7tp248cB7ss4kEk_D_xlt6Z-0zkdAoxsrJGFvxi9UOGTAHqxQJzng2DvLTeUy3Khr2qTWvqdquzxF8z4ZUUm0c0ZGLluWbPxWvWXb3Y5GGD2mf7TiDc_T6JddRqm8avkSOqqAoom/s1600/024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz7Dgb7tp248cB7ss4kEk_D_xlt6Z-0zkdAoxsrJGFvxi9UOGTAHqxQJzng2DvLTeUy3Khr2qTWvqdquzxF8z4ZUUm0c0ZGLluWbPxWvWXb3Y5GGD2mf7TiDc_T6JddRqm8avkSOqqAoom/s1600/024.jpg" /></a><b><u><span style="font-size: x-large;">Week 24:</span></u></b><br />
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<b>Baby’s development:</b><br />
-baby is moving quickly and frequently<br />
-taste buds are more sensitive and can experience foods that mother has eaten<br />
-sense of sight is developed enough to determine between light and dark<br />
-eyelashes and eyebrows are well-formed<br />
-skin is loose and reddish because of the developing blood vessels underneath<br />
-face is almost fully formed to what it will look like at birth<br />
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<b>Pregnancy symptoms:</b><br />
-Braxton Hicks (false contractions)<br />
-back ache<br />
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<b>Cravings:</b><br />
-cashews<br />
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<b>Aversions:</b><br />
-none<br />
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<b>Movement:</b><br />
-yes, especially when I lay down at night<br />
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<b>Gender:</b> boy<br />
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<b>Total weight gain/loss:</b> +14<br />
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<b>Belly button in or out?</b> in<br />
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<b>Best moment of the week:</b> celebrating Ryan's 3rd birthday with so many of our wonderful friends and family last weekend<br />
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<b>Looking forward to:</b> our upcoming vacation to south Florida to visit Ryan's grandparents and to show Ryan the place we got married<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw19GdtM8BwnJUWQ1PaO_SmVYro4V6S0ETrjuZvj6Z7QZu5bg1nVI0xh3gaXcK9MlrbdWSFVEYtHk7EjDr8dYx2qoC73RWRDBiVJBWwSZ2O6SGT0thPBFHqVezvlokkrPCShB60upY9B3q/s1600/my+3+year+old.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw19GdtM8BwnJUWQ1PaO_SmVYro4V6S0ETrjuZvj6Z7QZu5bg1nVI0xh3gaXcK9MlrbdWSFVEYtHk7EjDr8dYx2qoC73RWRDBiVJBWwSZ2O6SGT0thPBFHqVezvlokkrPCShB60upY9B3q/s1600/my+3+year+old.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV3gDXu8Puc6-U7vsUBk_q9JThTeHI6QPjx0QMhmidAlBz-p7FmgQmUoaRvOduJJWu3wULMULOSLu4by2p-zX7CssmQ44kZjoaSobD0tuqWGzRyCjBkAqyAcoA-iHmb0N4uugVaLYUcJzw/s1600/028.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV3gDXu8Puc6-U7vsUBk_q9JThTeHI6QPjx0QMhmidAlBz-p7FmgQmUoaRvOduJJWu3wULMULOSLu4by2p-zX7CssmQ44kZjoaSobD0tuqWGzRyCjBkAqyAcoA-iHmb0N4uugVaLYUcJzw/s1600/028.jpg" /></a><b><u><span style="font-size: x-large;">Week 28:</span></u></b><br />
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<b>Baby’s development:</b><br />
-retina has developed and eyes are opening and closing<br />
-baby is able to dream, blink, and cough<br />
-brain wave activity is increasing<br />
-baby can likely recognize mommy and daddy’s voices<br />
-taste buds are even more sensitive<br />
-baby is gaining more body fat<br />
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<b>Pregnancy symptoms: </b><br />
-heartburn and indigestion<br />
-feet and hands falling asleep<br />
-back ache<br />
-sensitivity to smells (good and bad)<br />
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<b>Cravings:</b><br />
-everything (huge appetite increase this week)<br />
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<b>Aversions:</b><br />
-none<br />
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<b>Movement:</b><br />
-LOTS of movement all of the time. I love it... this is my favorite part of pregnancy!<br />
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<b>Gender: </b>boy<br />
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<b>Total weight gain/loss:</b> +20<br />
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<b>Belly button in or out?</b> still an innie (barely. it is almost flat)<br />
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<b>Best moment of the week:</b> passing my Glucose Tolerance Test and seeing our sweet boy up close in a 3D/4D ultrasound<br />
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<b>Looking forward to:</b> being a parent chaperone on Ryan's first field trip with his school<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: x-large;">Baby Henry's 3D/4D Ultrasound:</span></b></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: x-large;">We can't wait to meet you in just a couple of months, little one. You look so sweet already. You are so very loved! xo</span></i><br />
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<br />Danahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14855399113878755637noreply@blogger.com2