36 Weeks

How far Along: 36 weeks

Size of baby: roughly 5.5 pounds and short. Her leg bones are still measuring short and she is now in the less than 20th percentile for size

Total Weight Gain/Loss: about 22 pounds (I actually lost weight this week...strange) 

Maternity Clothes: My belly has completely changed shapes and my shirts need to be longer to cover the growing belly. I can still wear my one pair of non maternity jeans, but it has been SO hot that a pair of work out shorts or my swim suit is my go to wardrobe. 

Gender: Sweet baby girl

Name: Harper Grace 

Movement: She moves frequently and is getting much stronger. You can easily see my entire belly move when she gets to wiggling. Maddox LOVES to feel her kick and squirm. Paxton just gets weirded out by my belly button. Ha. (me too buddy, me too) 

Sleep: I still do not sleep all that well and I have more and more contractions every evening. I have to get up to potty pretty frequently during the night as well. She is still moving the most frequent as soon as I lay down, it is almost as though it makes her uncomfortable for me to be on my side. She kicks and wiggles ALL.NIGHT.LONG.

What I miss: Feeling normal. This week has been a bit rough. I just do not feel well. Nauseous, back pain, heart burn and just an over all feeling of YUCK. 

Cravings: Not much of an appetite.

Symptoms:feels like a little bit of everything. Lower back pain, pelvic pressure, vision changes, head ache, (man, I sure sound like a complainer....I really am trying to have a good attitude and realize how blessed I truly am, its just been a tough week).

Best Moment this week: Seeing our little one on the ultrasound.

This weeks appointment did not go as smoothly as I would have hoped. Now, don't get me wrong, we are still very blessed with a healthy pregnancy and a growing baby girl, there is just more small drama to add to the mix. We found out at the ultrasound that her amniotic fluid level is still increasing, it is now at 23.5. They are still not terribly concerned with this number, but they want to continue to monitor her. Also, during this ultrasound, we discovered that she has turned breech. There is still hope that she will turn back and get in a better position; however, if I end up going into labor on my own anytime soon I will most definitely have a c-section. Now, non of this ideal, but I am not too concerned with it either. I know that God is in control and if a c-section is what I need in order to deliver a healthy, happy baby, then that is fine by me. I am just trying to prepare myself for either circumstance. It is a little overwhelming because this is as far as I was able to carry Paxton and my body finally had had enough and our 6 pound baby boy was born. 

All of this to say, we go back again on Monday to have another ultrasound and a non stress test to monitor our little bundle once again. Oh and did I mention, at the ultrasound they also informed us that little Miss Harper has a lot of hair! If they are correct, then I would have to agree with the old wives tale that if you have a lot of heartburn then your baby has a lot of hair!!! Ha. I guess we will wait and see!!

Dive on In

When the temperature outside is well over 100 degrees, I can think of no better way to spend the hot afternoon than by diving right on into the pool.

 I love how well the boys have acclimated to the swimming pool and how much fun we can all have together. I was a little nervous at the beginning of summer as to how we would handle 2 little boys in the swimming pool. It just seemed like more work than actual fun; however, both boys do fabulously in the water and they really seem to have a great time; thus making it fun for all of us!!
I have mentioned several times at how well Maddox is getting with his mask and snorkel, well today, he decided he would try to swim without his floaty on and just use his mask and snorkel. This kid is a fish with that mask! It really is amazing to watch how natural it all is for him; however, if you take that mask and snorkel off, he tends to act like a fish out of water and gets paniky. He swam back and forth from the deep end of the pool to the shallow end approximately 20 times this afternoon and never thought twice about it!

Paxton loves to jump from the side and swim from one step to the other. He giggles and has a good time (until he gets splashed in the face or gets too chilly). When he is finished, he is completely content to go sit in the pool side chairs and watch everyone else swim around (usually as he enjoys a snack).

That goofy grin will never get old to me. gosh i love this kid

After Maddox swam the length of the pool, Paxton showed me his super awesome out of the water swimming skills!

he not only was "swimming" here, but he was also singing some awesome song he made up. Too precious

Summer Time Accomplishments

This summer is proving to be a summer of major accomplishments for Mr Maddox. Over the last few weeks Maddox has discovered new tricks, talents and abilities. He is rapidly overcoming some of his fears and taking risks (eek). 

So far this late spring/early summer Maddox has discovered he can:

Snorkel with a mask, snorkel and floaty. He is very efficient at this and it never ceases to amaze me.
Breathing out of a snorkel is a very strange feeling and he has taken to it like it is second nature to him.

He has been brave and overcome his fear of jumping off the diving board. Now he runs and jumps as though he has been doing it for years. He loves the rush! He is getting really good at his cannon ball!

He has jumped off the side of the pool with regular goggles on and has discovered that getting water up his nose isn't as bad as he has feared.

He has learned to run more efficiently and is getting faster and faster.

He can hit a baseball off of a tee really well

He has caught a ball thrown to him in the air with his baseball glove


He learned to hit a baseball when it is pitched to him. This one still amazes me!!

He can ride a bike with out training wheels

He can ride a dirt bike without training wheels

I cannot believe that yesterday was the first official day of summer and my little man has learned so much already. I am so proud of his new abilities; however, when he learns something new it just reminds me of how quickly he is growing up. I pray I am able to savor every moment with him and not take a day I get with him for granted!!!

A year with children just seems to fly by! I cannot imagine what Maddox will be doing this time next summer (or at the end of this summer).

My sweet boys a year ago 

my my what a difference a year makes

Paxton is 26 Months Old

On June 20th Paxton James turned 26 months old. He is most definitely a toddler and no longer a baby. He is growing and changing so rapidly. He truly such a fun little guy!

What are you up to these days Mr. P:

Weight-26lbs

Size 4 or 5 diapers

Size 18-24 month clothes (you can wear 2T shirts, but the shorts or pants swallow you up)

You are eating MUCH better lately. You are still a very picky eater and cannot be convinced to take a bite of anything if you are not "feeling" it, but you eat much more and a bigger variety.

You love Cheetos, crackers, dry cereal and breakfast bars 

You love to play with cars, trains and trucks

You still love to build with your Legos and you love knocking them down the best

Your vocabulary is growing everyday and you are communicating much easier these days

You chase or follow your big brother around most of the day (monkey see, monkey do)

You get the most frustrated when people (mainly your brother) try to help you and you do not desire said help!

You are a good sleeper, but sometimes you have a hard time settling down in your room for a nap or bedtime because you think it would be more fun to play with your big brother. Although, when you nap in your own room at Gigi's house, we rarely hear a peep out of you for at least 2 solid hours

You are not as afraid of strangers or new situations as you have been in the past

You still despise the car wash and get a little panicky if you feel like we are going to go there

You are swimming so well in the big pool in the back yard. You like your floaty and you kick your feet really well

You seem to have come to the realization that your baby sister Harper is in fact going to be a real part of our family soon. You point to my belly and say "parper" (now, I have a feeling it might be a little confusing when you realize that Harper is a person, not just a huge bump in my belly)

You are really good at saying "thank you" on your own without being asked to say so

You still love your paci and I am dreading the day when we get rid of that for you, but for now it is your favorite nap and bedtime companion

You give the best hugs 

Your laugh is still your best feature! You can make anyone laugh when you laugh little man!!

Your natural ability to play by yourself still amazes me. You are most content when you are able to sit and do your own thing (so much different than your big brother). 

Oh Paxton James, I pray these next few months as we bring home your baby sister, that the Lord will guide your heart and your spirit and allow you the tools to adapt to the changes that will be brought your way and I pray HE gives me to wisdom to guide you into the man you were created to be. We love you sweet P

Sweet Paxton one year ago!! Sweet cheeks!!

Similar facial expression just last month

Sweet brother playing this morning!

Face to Face

Up until yesterday we have yet to have a chance to view our little Harper's face via ultrasound! She always turns her head away or covers her face with her hands. Seriously, every.single.time. I have always been fine with the fact that we haven't seen her face because at the end of the day the true importance is that the sonographer is able to view all the important features on her precious, growing, little body!! We have been blessed with great ultrasounds that provide us the reassurance that she is growing and developing just beautifully!

However, Monday, we were finally able to get a good view of her adorable little face, and I have to be honest, my heart melted! She just looks so precious to me (even in the creepy 3d/4d ultrasounds).

I am so ready to meet this little lady face to face (although we still need her to hang tight for at least another week!)

Harper Grace at 35weeks

35 Weeks

How far Along: 35 weeks

Size of baby: She weighed in at just over 5 pounds today during our ultrasound and I am not sure on her length, but they did say her leg bones are measuring on the shorter side

Total Weight Gain/Loss: roughly 24 pounds 

Maternity Clothes: My current wardrobe is mostly a swim suit or comfy yoga pants. I can still wear my non maternity jeans and some t-shirts, the rest is maternity. I need longer shirts because the belly is sticking further out. Really not wanting to buy anything at this point, so I am trying to make what I have work

Gender: Sweet baby girl

Name: Harper Grace 

Movement: She moves pretty frequently during all hours of the day and night. She really starts moving when I lay down on my side (this makes night time sleeping interesting because I can only lay on my side) It is crazy to watch my belly move with her stronger movements. 

Sleep: I still do not sleep all that well and I have more and more contractions every evening. I have to get up to potty pretty frequently during the night as well. 

What I miss: Being able to bend over with ease. Not groaning with every subtle movement I make. A normal looking belly button. Hello outie!! Not having heart burn ALL day long!!

Cravings: I still do not have any cravings. I get full super quick.

Symptoms: contractions contractions contractions! cramping and pelvic pain, my left foot started swelling this weekend.

Best Moment this week:

We had the blessed opportunity to view our precious little Harper via ultrasound today.  At the last visit they were a little concerned at her small size as she measured in the 34th percentile and today I was a little alarmed when they told me she is still measuring small and is only in the 22nd percentile; however, she is weighing just over 5 pounds and seems to be on track as far as weight is concerned. Her little leg bones are short and that is placing her in the smaller percentile. They seem to think this is simply going to mean she will be a little shorty (is anyone really surprised at that???). They then measured the amniotic fluid surrounding her and they were a little cautious because her fluid levels are on the higher side (normal range for amniotic fluid is anywhere between 7 and 20.....Harper's levels are at 22). They decided to do a non stress test and monitor her for a little while. She is moving beautifully and I was having pretty consistent, non active contractions the entire time. They are going to have me come back next Monday to have her fluid levels checked again and to have another non stress test just to make sure everything is looking okay. My OB does not seem concerned at any of this information and believes miss Harper is doing just fine, they are simply going to take precautionary measures to ensure a healthy little baby at delivery!!

Come Alive

“Don’t ask yourself what the world needs; ask yourself what makes you come alive. And then go and do that. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive.” - Harold Whitman

Robots

Having two boys is a daily adventure. There are arguments and the constant reminder to play nicely, talk nicely and share nicely. There are a lot of giggles, loud noises and active imaginations at work. Lego towers are built and then knocked over and built again. Super Hero costumes are worn and the world is protected by two little Voda boys. The running pitter patter of feet can be heard throughout the house as an active game of chase is taking place. Books are read. Songs are sang. Hugs are given and smiles are seen! 

There are days that are exhausting with the unpredictable life that accompanies a house full of testosterone; however, I am reminded how blessed I am to have spunky young children who live their lives to the beat of their own drum! Thanks to my children, I am reminded of the importance to stop living life like a robot and start experiencing the incredible things life has to offer!!

My creative little Robots (putting diaper boxes to good use)

33 Weeks

How far Along: 33 weeks

Size of baby: On average, she should weigh around 4.4 pounds. Her crown to rump length should be approximately 12 inches and total length around 19.4 inches (we will see for sure on the 18th) Our doctor does not seem too concerned that she measured on the smaller side at the last ultrasound. Paxton did too and he was just fine!!

Total Weight Gain/Loss: roughly 20 pounds 

Maternity Clothes: My current wardrobe is mostly a swim suit or comfy yoga pants. I can still wear my non maternity jeans and some t-shirts, the rest is maternity

Gender: Sweet baby girl

Name: Harper Grace 

Movement: She is a squirmy little thing. She has been getting the hiccups more and more frequently...good job little one, keep practicing that breathing!! 

Sleep: I still do not sleep all that well and I have more and more contractions every evening. Overall it is fine and I try to not complain. I am using this time when I can't sleep to help my body prepare for the lack of sleep I will have once she is here. At least now I am just awake and not working. HA

What I miss: Being able to bend over with ease. Not groaning with every subtle movement I make. A normal looking belly button. Hello outie!!

Cravings: Not a thing. I get heart burn just thinking about food these days. I haven't had too much of an appetite. 

Symptoms: contractions contractions contractions! cramping and pelvic pain. 

Best Moment this week: We went to the Doctor on Monday and we are now far enough along that there is not much they will do to stop labor if my contractions put me in full labor. While we still want her to cook for a while longer, this news has put my mind at ease. I no longer have to sit and ponder if I need to be going to labor and delivery to have the contractions and cramping monitored. We can now let Harper be in charge and that gives me a lot of peace.

29

Today I turned the big 2-9! Welcome to the last year in my twenties! 

No better way to spend a birthday evening than with these two handsome little boys, a growing little girl in my tummy, and a super handsome and sweet hubby!!

Daddy and littest boy getting ready for their outing to the lumber yard! Paxton had a blast with his one on one time with Brad this evening!

Yummy. Thanks again Brad for this delicious cookie cake!! Harper and I really enjoyed it!!!

Dirt Bike

Maddox continues to get better and better riding his dirt bike without training wheels; although, he is still giving Brad a pretty intense cardio work out with him chasing behind him all over the back yard.  Much to Maddox's surprise, he now has all the gear to keep his little body better protected for that sacred day when they venture out of the comfort of our back yard!! Not only is his body safer in his new gear, he is mighty handsome as well! I can honestly say I have never seen him more excited than the first time he got to put all this stuff on. He certainly feels like a real dirt bike rider now and he is pleased as punch!!

Looking good little man, looking good!!

He was SO excited

Thanks Uncle Austin for helping him with his helmet

Showing off his dirt bike hair

Paxton wanted in on the action as well. Here he is sporting Brad's dirt bike jersey! Soon enough little guy, for now let's stay content riding the tricycle.

This is the life, and I love the one I share my life with!!!

32 Weeks

How far Along: 32 weeks

Size of baby: I am not too sure at this point, at our last ultrasound she was on the smaller side, but she should be about 4 pounds now to be "average". They will check her again in 2 weeks to make sure she is growing properly. We might just have a pint sized little girl, and that is fine with us. Just praying for a healthy little one 

Total Weight Gain/Loss: roughly 17 pounds or so

Maternity Clothes: My current wardrobe is mostly a swim suit or comfy yoga pants. I can still wear my non maternity jeans and some t-shirts, the rest is maternity

Gender: Sweet baby girl

Name: Harper Grace 

Movement: She has recently decided to be pretty active most of the day and night. She squirms, stretches, kicks and wiggles pretty frequently. I sure will miss feeling her move around in my belly, but my poor bladder will not miss her pushing on it all throughout the night!!

Sleep: Not great. I have been having most of my contractions in the early-late evening which makes it hard to sleep. There have been a few nights with some pretty intense and scary contractions, but overall everything seems fine!! 

What I miss: Being able to bend over with ease. Not groaning with every subtle movement I make. Ha. 

Cravings: Nothing really. I get really full super easy. Suppose I am running out of room in there

Symptoms: contractions contractions contractions! cramping and pelvic pain. Nothing to complain about though.

Best Moment this week: overall just getting more and more ready for her arrival. Paxton actually acknowledged that he is in fact going to have a baby sister!! Yippee!! Progress

Brothers

Oh these boys. My joy. My loves. The two things that can make me loose every ounce of patience I have in me. The two bundles that can bring the biggest smile to my face. The best reason in the world to ever loose sleep. The lights of my life. The fruit of my womb. My flesh and blood. My two sons!

They are the best of friends and the quickest to irritate one another. They can play so well together, then turn on each other at the drop of a hat. One likes order and instructions and the other is a little tornado playing to the beat of his own drum.

I love to listen to them interact in their room when they are supposed to be sleeping. It seems this is when they are the kindest to one another and they laugh the loudest together. Paxton follows Maddox around mimicking almost everything he does and Maddox tries to get Paxton to do all sorts of things (some good and some not so good). They are the greatest super heros, hunters, lego builders, train track players, car crashers and water gun shooters. I am so thankful to watch their bond form especially the closer we are to bringing little Harper into our home. I am glad that through the changes this next year will bring, they will have each other to lean on.

All for one and one for all
My brother and my friend
What fun we have
The time we share
Brothers 'til the end.

Stubborn

Stubborn. stub·born adjective /ˈstəbərn/

Definition: Having or showing dogged determination not to change one's attitude or position on something, esp. in spite of good arguments or reasons to do so

Gosh I love this boy, but he is the most stubborn little guy I know!! It sure is a good thing he is so dang cute!!