Two Jayhawks Waiting for a Baby

A New Blog

2009-06-18T09:30:00.000-05:00

Greg and I have made a big decision. Since Burke was born, it has been very clear in our minds what we were going to do, but we have made it official. I am going to tell you all about it and if you decide you don't want to follow our blog anymore, we certainly understand. The announcement of the new blog, by the way, is not our big decision.

For the past three years we have prayed very hard that God would bless us with a baby. We didn't pray, "please bring us our baby from China", we just said "please let us have a baby by whatever means you bless us with." When we found out I was pregnant last June I knew in my heart we would not be adopting from China. I felt maybe I should wait though before pulling our dossier and going public with our decision. When I held Burke I knew without a doubt I would not be adopting. I just wanted to wait a little longer before telling our agency. So, it is official we are no longer adopting from China. We are a very blessed family of three. We will be even more blessed if I should become pregnant again, but we will not be traveling to China to bring home a baby. Thank you all for following our journey to parenthood! I have made some great friends out in the cyber world and I am thankful for you all.

You can now follow our new blog at www.3jayhawksandabulldog.blogspot.com

Burkie is 4 Months Old!

2009-05-21T16:19:00.006-05:00

Can y'all believe my baby boy is 4 months?! Time is just flying by. We saw Burke's Pediatrician today. The Doctor said Burke is doing fabulous! Burke weighed 14 pounds 4 ounces and was 25 inches long. He is in the 50% for weight and height. He is just perfect. So what has Burke been up to lately?

The biggest news is that Burke rolled over about three weeks ago! He has done it three times. Burke likes Tummy time now too. He prefers it over being on his back in fact. He also sleeps on his tummy now. With his Plagiocephaly we had to do something to get him off his head. It was so frustrating because when he was on his back it didn't matter how much we propped him when we would check on him he would be looking at the prop. Which wasn't helping his Plagiocephaly. We bought the Angel Care monitor which is basically a monitor that can tell Burke is moving and thus means he is breathing. Burke does not quite sleep through the night though. He goes to bed around 9:00 and wakes up around 4 or 5:00 in the morning. Also around 1:00 I hear him and get up and put his paci in. I am not tough. I can't let him cry. He is just too sweet to do that too! These first months go so quick. I just remind myself that someday I will miss holding him at 4:00 in the morning!

Burke LOVES his Bumbo! He loves to look around at everyone. Burke sits outside while I water the plants in it, he sits in when I cook, clean, wash bottles, he just loves it!

Burke enjoys watching Baby Einstein DVD's and he is just adorable when he watches that show. I never would have believed a baby can enjoy a video but they can! It will hold his attention for the whole 25 minutes. He only gets to watch it one time per day as I am kind of freaky about TV for my baby. Watching the DVD allows me sometime to get on the computer! ha!

Burke is smiling big time. He is talking a lot more too. He is still quite serious when he takes a bath, but I am getting more smiles. And a few splashes too!

My poor baby has allergies. They have been pretty bad. Mainly itchy eyes, sneezing, and congestion. He takes Benadryl about every other day until he is old enough then we will start Zyrtec. Poor little guy.

Burke had his pictures taken this week. The amazing Sarah Kealing, took them. I will try to share them with you if I can get permission. I've seen four of them, and well, they are adorable!

Tomorrow we are going to buy Burke's high chair. I had found the high chair I wanted when I bought the dream stroller. Well, Greg gave me the ok to get the dream high chair. I'll take pictures tomorrow! The reason we are buying a high chair is that Burke gets to start cereal! We just found out today by his Pediatrician. How exciting! I can't wait to see him try cereal!

Burke is a drooling maniac! He is drooling all the time. He also chews on his hand as often as possible. Along with my should, arms, blankets, etc. Anything that can go in his mouth he is trying to suck/chew on. The Pediatrician said he is probably starting to cut teeth, but it could be months before they appear.

I had a wonderful first Mother's Day. It was just the best. I thought a lot about last year and how I was so incredibly sad. How I had no idea that just a year later I would have my very own baby boy!

We had Burke's Dedication at the church on Saturday. Our good friends and neighbors came to the Dedication and then we went out for supper. It was a very special evening. On Sunday, we just stayed home. Burke got me a picture frame that I LOVE! Greg, thank you so much. You impress me more and more by how much you pay attention to my likes and wants. And then Burke and Greg got me an iphone! I have to say the iphone is amazing and there truly is an application for everything! Greg just pampered me all day. He got me donuts for breakfast and fixed me a yummy steak for supper.

We are going round and round with our insurance to get Burke's helmet approved. The helmet is NOT cheap and we really don't want to have to pay out of pocket. We have been denied two times. Each time they have wanted more information and they have now asked again. It really is ridiculous. I got very upset the other day. I can't take it personally, but I do. I am hoping third times a charm! Burke's PT continues to go well. He still prefers to look to his left. But his muscle in his neck is not as tight..which is a good thing. And he does turn his head more and more.

Is there anything else to tell you? Humm...Well a little about me. I've been asked about how my RA is doing. Well, about six weeks ago it came back. Darn it! And unfortunately it still hasn't calmed down. I am back to taking Remicade. But it hasn't started working yet. My RA is mainly in my hips right now. That is where it was when I first was diagnosed and when I had some discomfort in my pregnancy. I am fighting through it. I try not to think about it. I am a mom and Burke is my first concern. These old joints will eventually get better. They always have...

Oh and I had two of my friends come see Burke and I! We had a great time and it was wonderful to see them both!

My sister and her family will be here for Memorial Day weekend. We are having friends over for a BBQ so it should be a fun time!

I hope you all are doing well. Thanks for stopping by!

Love,

Alicia

Guess who is 3 Months?!

2009-04-21T14:50:00.007-05:00

Hello friends! I'm sorry it has been a while since I last updated. Blogging just isn't the same now that I have my little man. I would rather spend my time hanging out with him rather than typing on the computer. I hope you all understand! I am going to start updating once a month or so for now on. Of course, if there is something oh so cute that Burke has done or a fun picture I will post, but for now I will post only once a month.

Happy 3 Months Burkie! It is hard to believe you are already three months! You are so much fun and such a cutie pie. Here is what you are up to lately!

- You love your bath or so we think. When you get in the bath tub you become completely serious. I mean no smiles all business. You don't cry or fuss you just don't smile. It is so funny.

- You love to hang out in you room. In the evening if you are getting fussy I will take you to your room and lay you in your crib. You will smile and coo and just kick your legs. Very cute!

- You are smiling more and more and it is the cutest smile I ever did see. You really smile for Daddy.

- You are trying hard to giggle and squeal, but you can't do it quite yet. You have your mouth open and your smile on, but nothing comes out, but a little coo. Also super cute!

- You decided you don't like your Miracle Blanket anymore. You started kicking and struggling when we put you in it, so no more swaddling.

- You are still a little peanut. You wear size 1 diapers and you are just starting to outgrow your 0-3 month clothing. You weigh 12 pounds!

- You don't like to take naps in your crib. You would rather sleep on me. I love to have you sleep on me, but I don't get anything done!

- You are turning your head to the right more and more each day. You don't really like doing your Physical Therapy, but if you have your paci you will tolerate it.

-You are holding your head up very well. You like to be held and show off your neck muscles!

-You like to look over my shoulder. That is your favorite position

-Running water soothes you. I find myself running the water a little longer than I should, just because you like it.

-Your eyes are big and blue and gorgeous...we are pretty sure they are going to stay blue.

-You HATE tummy time! I mean you HATE it. You get so upset and I can't stand to see you this upset.

-You found your fist this week. You really like your fist to suck on, but it also frustrates you when you can't keep it in there.

-You love your Paci.

-You look just like Daddy. In fact, Grandpa Pete says, you don't look a thing like Mommy. Grandma says you have my nose though!

-You went and saw the Neurosurgeon last week. The doctor thinks you need to wear a helmet to help your head shape. Mommy is very sad about this, but it is only temporary and we wouldn't want you to go though life with a misshapen head!

-You like to sit outside! Yeah!

-You have NO schedule. This week Mommy is going to try to get you on a schedule. Please pray for me friends!

-You like to go on lunch dates with the girls. You are such a good date!

-You like car rides as long as we aren't in stop and go traffic. Which we are a lot of times in Houston.

-You had your first road trip to San Antonio for Easter weekend. You were a great little traveler. You slept the whole way! That is four hours for those not familiar with Texas.

-You went back to San Antonio this weekend.

-You don't sleep well at all at night. You used to, but just recently decided you don't want to.

-You never cry if Mommy can help it. People tell Mommy that you need to spend some time crying and I laugh and say "I waited 14 years for him and I'll do all I can to keep him from crying". I think that is why you aren't on a schedule, you don't sleep well in your crib, and you like to sleep on me! Oh well....

I am having a great time with Burke. I am so blessed to be a stay at home Mom. I wouldn't trade these days for anything! I love my little man so very much!

I hope you all have a great month! Enjoy the pictures!

Love,

Alicia

10 weeks tomorrow!

2009-03-31T12:33:00.015-06:00

Burke's Hippo Chair

Aunt Jinny and Burke

9 Weeks!

Momma and Burkie in the Blue Bonnets

As you can see this whole blogging thing is last on my priority list. I'm sorry to my loyal readers. Burke is just keeping me busy and to be honest I don't spend much time not holding Burke. I'm not good at typing and holding!

Burke's Aunt Jinny came to see him last week. Jinny and Greg have been friends since grade school and her and I have been friends since high school when I met Greg. Jinny lives in Denver and came to see us for four days! We were thrilled to have her and for her to meet our son.

The week before Jinny arrived Burke had his two month check up! As we suspected our little peanut is still quite small. He was in the 25% for weight and height! He weighed 10 pounds 12 ounces and was 22 inches long! We also found out Burke has torticollis. Torticollis is a big word, for a kink in the neck that started in my uterus. I am a short person and it is believed he didn't have much room in my uterus to move his head around. I started noticing Burke always turned to the left. So, we have started Physical Therapy. We also will see a few more doctors. It was awesome to have Jinny here because she is a Pediatrician doing her fellowship to be a Neonatologist. So, she came with us to PT and did a thorough examination on Burkie. She also had a heart to heart with me and reassured me it was nothing I did wrong. I have raked myself over the coals about this. Burke and I do lots of stretching through out the day and LOTS of tummy time! At first Burke didn't like tummy time but he is doing better.

While Jinny was here Burke decided he didn't really want to sleep at night. He fought his binki all night. If it fell out he would wake up screaming. He wouldn't go to bed until after midnight and wake up around 5:00. I was so tired. Burke wasn't because he would just sleep all day! So, on Saturday Greg said he wanted to put Burke to bed his way. Normally we do bath, then bottle, burp, and then he lays/sleeps on my chest until I am ready to go to bed. Greg put a stop to that. We started bath, bottle, burp, and then straight to bed. This routine made me sad, but I wasn't sad one bit when I slept from 10 p.m. until 5:30 a.m.!!! We catch up on cuddle time through out the day though! Tonight will be four nights and hopefully daddy's system continues to work!

Burke is almost giggling! In fact I think he does just real softly! It is precious to hear him coo! So sweet!

I know I have said this before but Burke loves bath time. He now likes to float (I support his head and tushy)he just lays back and enjoys himself thoroughly. So cute!

Tomorrow my friend Lori will be here to meet Burke! We are looking forward to seeing her! Burke is quite a popular guy!

I hope this all finds you doing well!

Love,

Alicia and Burke

Burke is smiling!

2009-03-17T06:58:00.013-06:00

I do not know how people keep up with their blogs. This blogging is getting harder by the week. I have this cute little boy who takes up my time and I don't like to do anything other than tend to him! Actually sometimes I enjoy getting on the computer but I find myself looking for baby clothes, burp clothes, pacifier clips, etc!

Burke is smiling!! Talk about melting my heart! It is an adorable smile and the pictures don't do it justice! He usually smiles after his bottle and when he is getting his diaper changed in our bedroom. He is so stinking cute!

Burke is now sleeping in his crib! No longer is he in his bassinet! This is HUGE for me as his bedroom is upstairs and ours is downstairs. Thank God for baby monitors. And for the fact that I am not a deep sleeper. I hear him more now that he is upstairs than I ever did right next to our room. He wakes up about once a night around 3:00 or so and then around 6:00. He is quite dependant upon his paci though and when it falls out he is not so happy!

And I had to include this picture. As I told you, Burke doesn't like blankets. He wants his "piggie's free", as my friend Wendy said. This afgan that his Great Aunt Barbara made him is just perfect for keeping his piggies free!

I have Poker tonight at my house so I must go, to get groceries bought and the house cleaned! Enjoy the pictures of my little sweety!

Love,

Alicia

Mugshot Monday

2009-03-02T10:18:00.004-06:00

Burke is 5 weeks already! He has been keeping me very busy, but I am enjoying every minute! The gas got worse last week and it broke my heart. I called our Pediatrician here and they suggested Mylicon and then Gripe Water. Neither worked. So on Saturday Mommy had it and made a call to our own private Pediatrician. Greg and I have a dear friend, Jinny, who is a big shot doctor, a Pediatrician, who is becoming a Neonatologist. She is simply amazing and has done so much! So Saturday I called Jinny and said "help". We made the decision to switch Burke's formula to a gentler one on his tummy. She told us it may not do a thing, but that it was worth a try. Although, I caution to say it is helping...we do think it is. Thank you Jinny!! We can't wait to see you this month!

Burke kind of has his nights and days mixed up again. We are not sure how this has happened, probably the gas. As the nights seem worse on his tummy. Hopefully we will get back on track.

Greg did his feedings on Saturday night and I slept horrible. I missed my little guy. So I think I will be doing his feedings for the most part. Greg is great help and does a great job with Burke, but I missed seeing Burke and couldn't wait for my feeding at 5:00. Crazy huh?!

We still don't take Burke out much. We took him to Chuy's last week and all the staff loved him! We ate at Chuy's the night I found out I was pregnant so it is a special place for us!

Burke is starting to have facial expressions when we talk to him. He is almost smiling! He had his first bath tub bath in his sling and he likes it. He is still a little fussy, but I know I am not a happy camper when my stomach hurts. Enjoy the pictures! Isn't he adorable?!

Mugshot Monday

2009-02-23T13:40:00.007-06:00

I can't stand video games, but this is too cute!

Burke and his play mat...he loves to look at the fish and grab at them

Mommy loves Burkie

My cutie pie!

My poor baby is battling gas and constipation. He has had a rough 48 hours. I called the Pediatrician today and they told us to start some gas relief medication. It is over the counter and I can't remember what it is called. But poor Burke has been getting all red and kicking his legs up and just not being his usual happy self. Please pray that we get this solved as I can't stand to see him hurt or get upset. Especially over GAS!!! Here are a few of my favorite pictures from this week. Enjoy!

Burke is One Month!

2009-02-21T15:28:00.002-06:00

My baby boy is one month old today! I can't believe that one month ago I met him. My life has changed so much. I love my little guy so much. My eyes are full of tears as I type this. I never dreamed I would finally get to be a Mommy. And now here I am a month into being Burke's Mommy! He is a gift from God that I am so thankful to have recieved. My days are filled with love and they fly by. I no longer have a lunch date everyday. I have a date everyday with the cutest baby boy that I've ever laid eyes on. A lot of times we don't go anywhere except our walks, but we have the best dates! We snuggle, we rock in the rocking chair, we play on the floor, and we take pictures...lots of pictures! When I look at Burke I am reminded that miracles still happen. He is my miracle. And I love him so much! God is so good!

Happy One Month Burkie! Mommy loves you so much!

Monday Mugshot

2009-02-16T10:48:00.011-06:00

Thank you all for commenting about my leak problem. I am happy to say "problem solved". I think it is a combined effort of "tucking" and getting the diaper up high enough in the back. We have not had a leak since late Friday evening! Burke wore the same outfit all day Saturday and Sunday! Yeah!!

I forgot to mention last week that Burke is weighing in at 7 pounds 7 ounces. Burke and I made a quick trip to the Pediatrician's office on Tuesday as he had a sucking blister on his lip. I'm glad we went even if it was something that is no big deal as we were able to get a weight check. I was so happy that Burke is up to almost 7 and a half pounds!

A few things about Burke. He hates socks. I mean really doesn't like them. He doesn't like blankets either except his Miracle Blanket, which Burke loves and we love! If you haven't heard of it go check it out here. He will kick off his blanket unless it is the Miracle Blanket. His poor little skin is like mine. Very sensitive and dry. Poor guy. He loves to go on walks. Yeah! We are up to walking about a mile a day. Hopefully this week we will start 1.5 miles. I just worry as it is spring in Houston which means rain. I don't want to get him to far from home and then it start to rain. He is much too sweet and will melt! And he could care less about Riley. I'm sure that will change, but right now he doesn't seem to realize he is different from his Mom and Dad!

On to the pictures!

Help! Advice Needed!

2009-02-13T10:03:00.003-06:00

Burke is doing wonderful! He s simply the best baby I have ever known! He is not fussy, he is one cool cucumber...just like his Daddy, which is good because as I've told you I'm uptight! He got his days and nights figured out which is great! He loves going for walks with Mommy. He does tummy time and doesn't get too upset. He loves his swing, his bouncy and of course, he loves to be held and look at Mommy and Daddy. He makes me smile from ear to ear. My heart has never been fuller. Oh and he is ADORABLE!!! But we have one problem and I need help! We cannot figure out the diapers. We have leaks every day. I can change him every hour or ever three hours, but we are going to have a leak. It is always on his right side. Yesterday, we went through four outfits in 12 hours! Now, remember we come from a family of girls. They never had leaks. Maybe a poopy blow out every now and then but never a urine leak. We started out using Pampers. Everyone said use Pampers. Last night I bought Huggies. Last night we had our first night leak, so no to the Huggies. Does anyone have any advice? What are we doing wrong? We make the diaper tight, we pull it up high, we keep it down low, but we have leaks! I'm asking all three of you who read my blog to give me some advice! I need it! And I need advice from mothers of boys!

Thanks in advance!

The Best Birthday Ever!

2009-02-07T12:39:00.004-06:00

Today is my 34th Birthday! I can't believe I am 34! I really can't believe I am finally a Mommy! Every year I would cry and feel sorry for myself that I still didn't have a baby. I was another year older and still no baby. This year is just so wonderful! I do have my little baby, I am a mommy, my life is complete! We don't have a thing planned other than watch the KU basketball game at 2:00. Greg is bringing home Lupe Tortilla (my favorite) for me for supper. He offered to cook and do clean up, but I know his clean up doesn't fit my definition and I don't want to do anything today other than love on Burke and spend time with him and Greg and take a nap!! Greg got me the cutest card from Burke. I loved it and it made me feel so good to get a card on it that said "mommy". Have I mentioned how much I love being Burke's Mommy?!

Greg went back to work on Thursday. Burke and I had a good three days. Burke has his days and nights mixed up though and it is hard on me. I am so tired! I have never known tired like this! It is worth it though and I know it can't last forever...right?! Burke and I have enjoyed taking walks in the afternoon. I love to take him in his stroller! The weather has been beautiful here and Burke enjoys getting outside as much as I do. Our Pediatrician put the fear of God in us about Burke getting sick. So we are not going anywhere with Burke. And we are limiting visitors. For the most part Burke gets to go to the doctor's office and then back home until he is at least one month. I think I am being a bit freaky about it, but our Pediatrician said if he gets a fever he will be put in the hospital. We so don't want that! So going for walks has been great!

Burke is getting bigger! I put him in his coming home outfit and it fits so much better. He is still our little peanut, but he seems to be filling out a little. He eats about 3 ounces of formula every 3-4 hours. And even though I have felt bad about the formula I just couldn't give him enough breast milk to get him gaining weight. I already have that mother's guilt, but it has been a good decision for us. As soon as Burke started formula he started to gain weight.

So, today on my 34th Birthday I am just enjoying that I am finally a Mommy to the most adorable little boy that you ever did see! I hope you all have a great weekend.

Love,

Alicia

Mugshot Monday

2009-02-02T20:25:00.007-06:00

A friend of mine does this on her blog. I will post my favorite pictures of Burke for the previous week. I can't say I won't post other photos through the week, but on Monday I will post my favorites. I am so excited to actually have a blog with a baby as the main attraction. Burke is so stinking cute! I know I am his mother, but he is ADORABLE!! I am so in love with my little guy! Today we had our first outing. We went to Target and Toys R Us. We were back at home for Burke's 3:00 p.m. feeding. Burke has had more awake time today and it is fun to watch him look around. He has a new friend, his pacifier! Some people don't like paci's but I do. I like how babies look with them. After Burke had blood work done he came back sucking a mile a minute on the pacifier. It was so cute. At first, we didn't want him to use one, but I caved yesterday and gave in. He is even more adorable when he is sucking away on that thing! Enjoy the pictures!

Love,

Alicia and Burkie

Wow!

2009-01-31T23:04:00.006-06:00

My title of this post says it all! Wow, am I in love! Wow, has my life changed! Wow is my baby boy a pure joy! Wow, am I tired! Burke is one week and four days! Greg and I have had a full week. With lots of help from my mom...who has been an absolute God send. We are so thankful she was able to come stay with us for nine days! She taught us a lot of things, made many suggestions that actually worked, and insisted that I take naps (which I so desperately need)! Greg has been an awesome daddy as I always knew he would be. He is super calm with Burke and doesn't crack under pressure. I am doing well. It has been an adjustment for me physically, as I am not used to going without sleep. I am tired and maybe a tad emotional, but other than that we are all doing well. I am quite nervous when Greg goes back to work on Thursday, but I know Burke and I will do just fine. I just have to remind myself of that!

Burke met his cousins today! They were disappointed that all he did was sleep. I never mentioned that my sister was awesome when I was in the hospital! She was my own private nurse (both her and my mom are RN's). Heather and my mom have offered so much help, pointers, advice, etc. I am so thankful for them. Wow, life sure has changed! Keep in mind I used to be such a know it all! Uhm...not on babies! Enjoy the pictures of our little peanut. He is so little. I forgot to mention he got down to 5 pounds 11 ounces. That was majorly scary and stressful. Luckily, we started formula and he is putting on some weight. He gained 10 ounces and we were so thankful and happy! Enjoy the pictures!

My cutie!

2009-01-25T14:24:00.002-06:00

Make a Smilebox slideshow

He's Here

2009-01-21T20:31:00.004-06:00

Greg here posting for a resting Alicia. We are happy to announce that Burke was born today at 1143 AM. He weighed in at a whopping 6 lbs 11 ozs. He is 19 inches long and is doing well. He had some initial breathing issues, but worked through them and is now doing fine. Alicia is also doing very well. She is a little tired and sore, but overall, doing well. We want to thank everyone that has been praying for Alicia and Burke. God has blessed us with a beautiful son that is doing very well. Here are some pictures for those of you anxious to see him.

Burke in the OR just after delivery.

Proud Momma with Baby Burke

Baby Burke checking everything out

Burke showing off his "Guns" for the camera

A week changes everything...

2009-01-20T15:50:00.007-06:00

Here is a picture just after finding out tomorrow is the BIG day!!
Remember last week when I was crying the blues about not having Burke until Jan. 27? Well, God called my number this morning and time is up! We saw my OB this morning. I went from saying at 9:00 this morning to my sister, "I'm glad I have another week, I need to get stuff done and it just works well". To hearing this: "After talking to Dr. K (specialist) we have decided it isn't in the best interest to keep your baby in you another week. I have you scheduled for tomorrow at 12:00 to have a c-section." GULP! Greg and I looked at each other and about died! Pure excitement, pure fear, pure love for a baby boy that was 14 years in the making! Obviously, I don't have a lot of time to type right now. I have been running around like a crazy woman since about noon today. I really must go. My sister will be here around 9:00 p.m. and my parents will be here on Friday. I didn't want them here for the c-section as I know I will REALLY need my Mama once I bring Burke home. Ok, I need to go. I will upload pictures of Burke as soon as I am able too! Please pray for everything to go well for Burke and I. Everything has gone so perfectly and I just pray everything continues to stay that way!

Love,

Alicia

Please pray

2009-01-17T17:34:00.003-06:00

I have become quite the blogging girl. I enjoy reading others blogs and find that I consider some of these people friends I may never meet. I have been following Kelly's Korner for sometime now. Kelly was induced on Friday. When I woke up Saturday I was so excited to see her precious baby Harper. Unfortunately, Kelly's baby is struggling and is in the NICU. Please pray for Kelly's sweet baby Harper.

Another blog I follow is often times difficult for me to read as Adrienne has a blood clotting mutation. As you all know I do too, although I don't think we have the same one. Please pray for Adrienne who is struggling right now.

There is always a reason....

2009-01-14T17:06:00.006-06:00

I was frustrated and annoyed. I am doing OK though, because now I know why things are taking a little longer. We saw my OB today. Burke has decided he likes where he is at and did not "drop". I still only have a 50% chance of a successful delivery. So, it was decided I will have a C-Section on January 27. Burke is doing well in my womb and since things are going so well my OB thinks we should give Burke an extra week to get ready. Obviously, I was sad, BUT I want my baby healthy and I don't want him to come on my time schedule, but when he will have the best chance to be a healthy baby boy!

I called my mom when we got home. Mom has been battling what we thought was a sinus infection. I guess last night she got pretty bad and went to the doctor again this morning. She has pneumonia! She won't even return to work until next Tuesday. So, as sad as I was about waiting another week to meet Burke I quickly saw that there was a reason, as my mom would not be healthy enough to come. Now the really neat part is that Burke will be born on his Grandma's Birthday, January 27! So we must get my mom well so she can meet her grand baby.

My anxiety level got pretty high today and I am still pretty anxious. I worry about Burke. Even though I know my body is the safest place for him, I worry. Have I told you all I am a worry wart? I am. I don't know what I will do with myself for the next 13 days. I guess I will cook some meals, bake some cookies, read my book for my book club...especially since now I can attend the next meeting, and of course, clean.

I see my OB next Tuesday. I'll continue to keep you posted if anything were to change!

Love,

Alicia

Just so excited!

2009-01-13T18:04:00.007-06:00

So tomorrow we find out if I will have a c-section or be induced. I talked to my good friend Jinny over the weekend. Jinny is a Neonatologist, and she said exactly what I was thinking. Pushing a seven pound baby out doesn't sound so great, having abdominal surgery certainly doesn't sound fun...now tell me what is option "C"?! It is nice to know even doctor's think birth sounds rather scary!

I am so excited! I mean so excited. I am not sleeping so great, I am so excited! Once I wake up for my third restroom trip in five hours, I just can't get back to sleep. I start picturing in my head what Burke will look like. I think about how I hope he is healthy, how I want him to be a nice person (sometimes in my childhood I wasn't very nice...it is VERY important to me that my son be friendly to EVERYONE), will he look like Greg? will he look like me? will his head be big like Greg's?(did I just type that?) haha! Greg does have a big head! I think about the photo ops of him with his doting little cousins. I think about my conversation with my niece Summer over the phone on Saturday...she is six.
Me: Your cousin Burke will be here in 11 days!
Summer: Burke will be here in 11 days?
Me: Yes, Auntie will finally hold Burkie
Summer: Don't push too hard because you know if you do it will come out the other end!
Me: cracking up...did Gregie tell you that or Daddy?
Summer: I just know, if you push to hard it will come out your other end!
I hear my sister in the back ground saying "Summer did you just say what I think you said?". Summer said, "it's true Mom"!

We are on the countdown! I just can't wait to meet my baby boy that feels like I've waited forever for! Please pray that my doctor makes the right decision for Burke and I. I am not afraid of the pain...I really am not. I am afraid of the medication that will cause contractions. Crazy, huh? I'll let you all know when the date is and how Burke is going to arrive tomorrow!

Love,

Alicia

January 20 or 21, 2009

2009-01-08T15:21:00.004-06:00

My news is VERY exciting, but I wanted more...more concrete news. Let me start at Tuesday. We saw Dr. K on Tuesday. Burke looked great again. In fact, at first he looked so good that Dr. K said, "we will go to 38 weeks." I was surprised as I had been told 36-37 weeks for induction. No biggie...I just want Burke to be healthy. Then he said, "do you see that? That is calcification on the placenta". That means the placenta is deteriorating. 37 weeks it is. We will induce at 37 weeks. Stop the Lovenox on the 17th of January, and induce on the 19th of January. Can you be ready in 12 days?". I was a little scared with the whole placenta thing, but I know I am going to one of Houston's best. I was thrilled as 12 days is right around the corner. We told Dr. K thank you for taking such good care of Burke and I and we said our goodbyes. I won't see him again unless I get pregnant again. Greg and I were/are on cloud nine. I counted out ten shots...that is all I had left if I was to stop them on the 17th. I also, though felt that Dr. P may change the plans a little. He may not be on call, Monday may not work for him, etc. So I hesitated to tell anyone...just family.

Today I took number 2 of my 10 last shots and headed to see Dr. P. Dr. P asked if I wanted to try to have a regular delivery. I said "yes, but I will do whatever to keep Burke safe". He said, hummm......Long story short, we won't have Burke on Monday the 19th. We will either have him Tuesday or Wednesday! I know that is only a day different, but I WANTED TO KNOW MY EXACT DATE TODAY!!! And the big thing is he may come C-Section. It seems Burke is still quite comfy and has made no plans to move into place for the big day. Dr. P feels my chances of a successful delivery are only about 50%. Since I am high risk everything changes. Everything is looked at and evaluated just a little more than on an average lady. I could be induced and still have to have a C-Section. So, we wait and see. Next Wed. we go in for another ultrasound, if Burke is over 7 pounds or/if Burke is not engaged (getting into place for birth) we will have a C-Section. I often joked that a c-section would be so much easier, but I never dreamed I would need to have one. I am a little surprised, incredibly excited, and extremely nervous. I just wanted that exact date, but we got pretty close. Burke will be here on January 20th or the 21st.

So the countdown is on! I have 12 or 13 days left before I meet my precious baby boy. The boy who I begged God for... who will take my breath away... who I will kiss over and over again... and love more than life itself.

Until next week!

Alicia

A Special Gift

2009-01-03T08:19:00.008-06:00

This last week Greg was able to visit a friend of ours who is a Missionary in Mongolia. It just so happened that Josh was in Texas for the holidays, his first time being in the States for three years. We have not seen Josh since he was a Groomsman in our wedding. I was unable to go see Josh and his family, however Greg made the trip. Greg had a great visit with Josh and his family. They sent Greg home with an adorable pair of shoes that were handmade in Mongolia, for Burke. I'm not sure I will ever let Burke wear them because they are just too darn cute! I wanted to show them to you all. Thank you Josh for the precious little shoes!

Have a great weekend!

Alicia

Happy New Year!

2009-01-01T11:08:00.017-06:00

I simply cannot believe it is 2009! 2008 was an amazing year for me! I had the worst heartache I think I have ever felt and yet I also was given the most joy I have ever felt. Greg says, "what was so hard?" I think he forgets I wasn't pregnant the whole year! In May, I thought, I'm going to lose my mind if I can't get pregnant. Little did I know just a month later I would become pregnant! I sit here typing thinking about what I will be able to talk about next year! We will know Burke, we will have held him for almost a year, we will have seen his first smile, smelled his sweet skin, kissed him time and time again, witnessed his first crawl, heard his first laugh, oh the list could go on and on.

So here is a recap of the last year!

In January I took my only trip to my parents. Little did I know I was to become pregnant and would not be able to travel for nine months. Heather, Summer, Lilly, and I surprised my mom for her 57th Birthday!

February 7, I turned 33! Yep, it's true, I know, I know, I only look 27!

In March, my parents came for Easter. We all went to San Antonio as my sister was very pregnant and could no longer travel.

March Madness Baby! Rock Chalk Jayhawk! We saw the Jayhawks win a National Championship title! We had a blast cheering on the Jayhawks!

April 19, Adalynn Brooke was born! I have another niece! I love those girls so much!

June 16, Greg turned 33! Everyone ask what a young girl like me is doing with such an old man! haha!

June 25, the BIGGEST day for Greg and I! I found out I am pregnant!

June 29, we made a quick trip to our hometown in Kansas to see our grandparents. We were able to see other family members and several friends!

July 30, we got to see our baby for the third time. He was already beautiful!

September 24, We are having a BOY!

September 25, we saw Dr. K and he said our baby boy looks GREAT!

October 6, we announced our baby boy's name is Burke William!

Thanksgiving, all my family came to Houston for the holiday!

December 15, Burke is growing big! Dr. K says he looks good, but big...he may come early!

December 25, My parents came for Christmas and surprise Greg and I!

I want to wish you all a wonderful 2009! Like I said, I can't imagine the fun Greg and I will have in 2009! Thank you for reading my blog, for praying for me and Burke, and for being my friend...even those of you I may never meet!

Love,

Alicia

34 Weeks and my Christmas Surprise!

2008-12-29T18:36:00.011-06:00

I am 34 weeks this week! As I sit and type this Burke is moving all over it feels like! What a wonderful feeling. I've been told that once you have your baby you will miss the feeling of having them inside you. I can definitely see how you can miss this.

Greg and I got quite the surprise early Christmas morning. Around 2:00 a.m. the doorbell started ringing nonstop. Greg flew out of bed and went to the door. There stood my parents in Santa hats ringing jingle bells! Talk about thrilled and surprised! Have I mentioned that I have the BEST parents?! Goodness gracious did they surprise us! It was one of the best surprises! Of course, my mom had brought all the groceries for our Christmas dinner and then some! We had made plans to go to our dear friends, Carrie and Brian's, for Christmas dinner, so Mom knew I would not have any dinner planned. She came in with a cooler full of food! I was so happy to see them. Mom and Dad stayed until Sunday morning, so we had a great visit with them. My sister and her family came Friday and just left today. We had a wonderful holiday together. We ate too much, played tons of cards, I watched others enjoy coffee and beer, and just enjoyed hanging out! Thanks again, Mom and Dad!

Greg goes back to work tomorrow. I am so bummed that he has to go back. Greg spoiled me and got me the Coach handbag and wallet for Christmas that I had been wanting. You know the one that I lost the bet over. Well, I never went and bought it for myself. I just couldn't. I love the purse and am so glad he got it for me...even though he went way over our set amount to spend on each other this year. I got Greg the newspaper from when the Jayhawks won the NCAA tournament framed. It looks great!

Here is a picture of my Gregie...I rarely get a good picture of him so I had to include it! Isn't he a cutie!

The best present was having all my family here though. Greg and I had a fun time! I thought a lot over Christmas how next year will be so different! I really can't imagine! Neither Greg nor I can wait to be Santa. Even though we know Burke won't have a clue what is going on...we will and we are excited!

I couldn't leave out my nieces Summer and Lilly...they are just too cute!

I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas! I see my OB again on Wed. I go every week from now on. I will update if anything were to change.

Love,

Alicia

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-23T14:54:00.005-06:00

Hi Friends and Family!

I just can't believe today is Christmas Eve. Christmas Eve is my favorite day! I love it, in that I am always with my family, cooking, baking, giving my dad a hard time about not making the Bierocks correctly, being too hot with the oven on and the fire place roaring, drinking so much coffee that I can't sit still, playing cards, eating too much, but mainly being with my family! Christmas Eve is just the best to me. Don't get me wrong, Christmas Day is wonderful. But once the presents are open it is always kind of a let down to me. This year I am so thankful for baby Burke. So thrilled that he is doing so awesome. So thankful that I get to meet him in less than two months. So incredibly thankful that miracles still happen to very ordinary people. I am sad though too. It is just Greg and I. I have been sad since Thanksgiving. I feel bad that I am sad, I have so much to be thankful for this Christmas, but my heart hurts not seeing my parents and sister. I am a 33 year old baby.

We saw my OB yesterday. Burke is doing wonderful! There is only one thing that is driving both Greg and I crazy. You see, Greg makes decisions all day. He is a manager for the railroad and they are pretty significant decisions. He always gets an outcome. If the outcome isn't good, he fixes it. I am a planner. I know what we will be having for supper at eight in the morning. I make lists and generally I achieve everything on my list. Obviously, I am not like Greg, but I control everything in my life. Well, being pregnant is different. Nothing is definite. We are told one thing, but everything can change. We want to know our baby will be born on this day. Unfortunately, that just isn't how pregnancy works. It is a wait and see game. A game that is driving us crazy! We don't want Burke to come too early, obviously, but we REALLY want to know when we get to hold him, see him, and give him tons of kisses.

This year will be our 16th Christmas together! I can't imagine how exciting next Christmas will be with Baby Burke! This Christmas already feels extra special, because Burke is with us. I just can't imagine how next year will be! Greg and I bought a video camera yesterday...a family present. Just think...next year you all will be watching video of my baby boy opening his presents from Santa! God is so good.

Wishing you all a Very Merry Christmas!

Love,

Alicia and Burke

Happy Birthday Riley!

2008-12-16T13:08:00.009-06:00

Today my first baby boy turns five! Five years ago Riley was born in Humble, Texas. On Christmas Eve, I found an add in the Houston Newspaper for a Bulldog. I called the breeder and asked if she had any left. She said, she didn't have anymore that were in the paper, but that another liter had just been born on the 17th of December. That they would be ready on Valentine's day!

I have so enjoyed having Riley. He was literally my first baby. He has lived in Texas, North Dakota, and then back to Texas. He has been my friend when I knew no one and was new to an area. He has slept beside my bed when my RA was ugly. He has heard me cry when I couldn't understand why I couldn't have a baby. We have had many fun times too! He loves car rides, he loves playing with his bone and dumbbell, and he loves watching me make a salad as he loves carrots and green peppers...raw of course ! And now he is about to have a baby in his house. A baby that will surely drive him crazy, who will cry at all hours of the night, who will enjoy having toys scattered from one room to the other, and a baby that will take almost all of my attention. Poor Riley, life will never be the same!

So today, I got up bright and early and made him an egg with carrots and green peppers sprinkled on top! He was thrilled! Happy Birthday Riley! Thanks for being my first baby! I will always love you, even when your baby brother arrives!

He's BIG!

2008-12-15T12:23:00.010-06:00

We saw Dr. K today and Burke is doing awesome! He is a BIG boy though! He is weighing in at 5 pounds 3 ounces! I am 32 weeks and technically he shouldn't be this big until 35 weeks. Dr. K said, "we are going to get you to 36-37 weeks and get him out"! I cannot lie, I was a little surprised with this news as I had always assumed he would be small. Greg said, my eyes had a look of total shock when he said he was significantly bigger. You see, we just took our birthing class this weekend and I heard all the horror stories of having a big baby. I, of course, told myself that none of these situations apply to me because Burke is going to be small. Haha! This week has been one enlightening moment after another! So, we see Dr. K on January 6 and it looks like a BIG decision will be made at that appointment. I had assumed I would have Burke around the 26th of January, now it looks more like the 11th!!! OMGOSH...I'm so excited!

We did not get any pictures of Burke this visit. We saw him on the screen in 3D, but Dr. K was busy getting a lot of measurements. Which by the way, I found out Burke's placenta is an anterior placenta. Which doesn't mean much regarding Burke, but it does explain why it took so long for me to feel my little guy move and kick. Basically his placenta is guarding my belly so he has to kick hard for me to really feel him. It was a full day and I feel so good to know Burke is big rather than small. Even if I was rather shocked!

At our Birthing Class we had a local celebrity in it, click here for more info! The class was very informative, but like I said much of the time I was like "oh my"!

I am very tired today, but I wanted to tell you all about my visit to see Dr. K. I am so happy that Burke is doing well! I can't wait to meet him and see his face in real life!

Can you believe I am 31 weeks pregnant?!

2008-12-11T09:02:00.006-06:00

I certainly cannot believe I am 31 weeks! Whoohoo! Burke and I are cruising along and doing very well. He puts on his nightly show and moves, kicks, squirms...I swear he is going to be a football player! Even if he is just the punter. He loves ice cream which should be a given, since his parents love ice cream. Every night after ice cream he just goes crazy. I absolutely love the feeling he gives me! It is so amazing and the most wonderful gift!

We attended the Railroad Christmas party last Saturday. It was a lot of fun and great to meet all the people Greg works with. I found out just how proud Greg is to be a daddy, as everyone I met knew I was pregnant. I danced a couple of songs, but I am klutz and just knew I would wipe out. I didn't want to take any chances, especially since I about wiped out just walking down the stairs to get to the party. Someone at the party took our picture and it is a great picture, but we haven't received it yet. I'll post it as soon as we get it!

We see Dr. K on Monday. He is the BIG doctor. The one that makes me nervous...the one who can really tell if something is not going right. We will have another Level 2ultrasound, and we will leave hopefully feeling as elated as we did last time! We are really excited to see Burke in 4D again. At 20 weeks, he was super skinny. And it stressed me out. I have worried about him a lot due to the pictures. I was told that was perfectly normal, for him to be so skinny, but it stressed me. 32 weeks is optimal time to have a 4D ultrasound, so we can't wait to see our little guy again! Hopefully, he will be chubbier! Plus, we get to see him in 4D for free! Meaning we don't pay extra for those amazing pictures! I tell you, being high risks does have its perks!! Dr. K will be checking to make sure Burke is growing fast enough. Lovenox, the shots I take, can slow down his growth. I have no reason to believe he isn't growing fast enough, as his kicks show me he is a strong little guy! Please pray though that our news is positive and I hear once again that my baby boy is doing perfectly!

I feel like I am leaving something out. Oh yes, I finished that grueling book!!! Hooray for me! I feel like I am an adult now. I did not enjoy that darn book one bit, but I set myself out to finish it and I did. I will not tell you what it is, because it seems to be quite popular right now. I would hate to sway you one way or the other.

I'll let you know on Monday what Dr. K says.

Love,

Alicia and Burke

30 Weeks!

2008-12-04T17:44:00.005-06:00

I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving! We had a great time with all my family here. I hated to see them all go. I won't see my parents again until Burke is here. That makes me sad. I wish we all lived closer. My sister and her family will be here a couple days after Christmas, but for the most part it will just be Greg and I. It was great to have them for Thanksgiving and I am so thankful this year. When my dad said the prayer before our turkey dinner he prayed for Burke. I still get a lump in my throat right now thinking about it. While I pray for Burke every day, it was so wonderful to hear MY BABY being prayed for out loud by others. Huge tears welled up in my eyes, just as they are now. Thank you God for this baby. OK, I am getting too emotional, onto other things.

We saw Dr. P this week. Burke and I are doing awesome. I am having no blood pressure issues, my weight is slowly creeping up, but nothing too much, Burke is growing strong. I have to tell you about my nurse, Andrea. I have mentioned her many times. I should call her my friend, but I want you all to know that she is technically my nurse. Well, when Greg and I arrived she took us to our room and said she'd be right back. When she returned she had a bag FULL of clothes and diapers. Brand new clothes, many with the tags still on. They are all so cute! I have washed them and have them hanging in Burke's closet! She said her baby boy couldn't wear them and she wanted us to have them, as my blog touched her. Out of all the patients she sees every day she picked our baby Burke to get these clothes! Greg had big ole tears in his eyes when she walked out the door. Of course, I had tears too. Andrea, thank you so much! Burke will look great in his new clothes! We think the world of you!

So, this week I am tired. I have been going nonstop since last Wed. and I feel super tired. I have been having moments of panic where I feel like I must get EVERYTHING done for Burke. I have a lot of stuff bought, but nothing is truly functioning yet. This has me stressed. Today I went and bought bottles, wash clothes, a few toys, bassinet sheets, etc. I have done Christmas shopping, house decorating, tree decorating, lunch dates, etc. It has all been fun, but I am whipped by the time Greg gets home. Plus, I joined a book club and can't get into the book...which needs to be read by next Saturday. HELP!! Other than being tired I feel great though! I officially look pregnant as people have started to stop me and say "when are you due". I am sure I must beam from ear to ear as I am so thrilled! My OB wants me to do kick counts and so I have started doing that twice a day. Luckily, Burke goes to town and doesn't make me wait around too much. He already is such a good baby!

I don't know how this happened, but I did not get a picture of Greg or myself this Thanksgiving. Talk about being annoyed. I am the picture taker in my family and I forget to say "stop, take a picture of me"! This weekend we have the railroad Christmas party so I will try to get a picture of the proud parents to be!

Have a wonderful weekend!

Love,

Alicia

29 Weeks and my 2nd shower!

2008-11-25T09:31:00.012-06:00

Happy Thanksgiving friends! I can't believe it is already Thanksgiving! My family is all coming to our house on Wednesday! I have bought all the groceries, done some cleaning, and now tomorrow I will make the pies and a few other things. I also washed all of Burke's clothes and blankets in Dreft this week! Greg and I had fun folding and hanging up the little outfits that will looks so precious on our cutie!

I had my second shower this last Saturday given by Karin and Stephanie. It was great! I had a wonderful time seeing all my girlfriends. The theme was circus like Burke's bedroom. It was so cute! They had carmel corn, mini corn dogs, candy, peanuts, and the most yummy lemon cupcakes that Steph made! I received all the bedding for the nursery, the Papasan Cradle swing, diapers, and a few incidentals. I loved everything I received and I know Burke will too! My good and long time friend, Suzanne, made the trip from Ft. Hood. It was so special that she came to my shower! Her husband, Bill, is serving in Iraq, so I know it was a lot for her to load up three kids and make the three hour drive by herself. I am so grateful for this bunch of girlfriends. I played Bunco with them one time as a sub and they liked me so asked me to join, that was almost two years ago. They have become so special to me. I wish we could get together more often!

This is Karin, me, and Suzanne at my shower

Tippy Cup Race! I must tell you, that I won!

The pregnant girls...Carrie is four weeks behind me....

I am starting to feel like I am in the home stretch. I had my two showers, I have Thanksgiving, then the railroad Christmas party, birthing class, then my first book club meeting, followed by couples Poker and then Christmas! January will go slow I am sure, but December should fly by. Greg and I are getting super excited! The anticipation is growing daily! How much will Burke weigh, will he be short, will he have Greg's blue eyes, will his skin be like mine (sensitive), will he need glasses, will he be cool and calm like Greg, will he have a nice smile, we must sit around and talk about this stuff everyday.

I think that is all for now. I hope you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving!

Love,

Alicia

28 Weeks and a shower!

2008-11-18T09:47:00.005-06:00

I am 28 weeks and two days! I made it to my third trimester! It was a cause for a celebration so we went and bought the stroller of my dreams. I have been very wishy washy about buying this stroller, but when the price went up I knew I better go ahead and buy the stroller. I will post some pictures of it soon!

I had my first shower this last weekend! It was wonderful. My little sister made me so proud. Saying thank you seems so inadequate. Heather, you did a wonderful job! I had adorable M&M's with "Baby Burke" and "Handsome Boy" on them! Way cute! She had a fruit arrangement done by Edible Arrangements...it was so pretty I hated to eat it! She got Burke adorable clothes, she filled my diaper bag to the brim with all the things I need, but best of all, her husband, gave my mom a free ticket to come to the shower! I knew God blessed me with my sister and he keeps blessing me with her. She is my best friend and the one person who knows me inside and out. Thank you Heather from the bottom of my heart!

My friend Hillary came from Ft. Worth with the most beautiful cake! It truly was one of the neatest gifts! Hillary has recently started baking cakes and I do believe it is her calling! Hillary is married to Greg's friend Hervey who also works for the railroad. They are our friends who we always see when we go to Ft. Worth. It meant so much to Greg and I that they made the trip for our shower!

I got lots of great gifts for Burke! He is so blessed...people love him so much! I guess when people know you would give your right arm to have a baby, well the baby is maybe just a little extra special....maybe I am biased. We had a wonderful Saturday and while I was nervous to be the center of attention I had a great time! I was so happy that my mom was here, that my sister did this for me, and for the friends that I have.

The only bummer is that Greg and I are both sick today. We had sore throats yesterday and still do today. Poor Greg...today is his first day to work 12 straight, so please pray he finds time to go to the doctor and that he gets well soon. I know he won't call in sick. In eight years with the RR he has only left one day to be sick. I am headed to the doctor here shortly...hopefully it is nothing.

I have another shower this weekend given by my great friends Karin and Stephanie. I am looking forward to this one just as much as I was the other! I will upload some pictures soon, but I just don't feel so good now.

Have a great week!

Alicia

15 Things I'm not afraid to admit

2008-11-14T06:46:00.009-06:00

I was tagged by Karin. I have never done this before, but here goes. Please don't judge me!
1. I am horribly afraid of rodents. I mean deathly afraid. My Dad used to tell me they would eat me alive if there were enough...I still believe that.
2. I love old school Gangsta Rap.
3. I love Birkenstocks and will wear them until I am old and gray. Greg worries the kids will find out Burke was actually named after his Mom's favorite shoes.
4. I am a hippy at heart...I would have loved to have been a teenager in the 70's, instead I was just five.
5. While I am a good at all the jobs I have had, I called in sick way too many times, it is best I no longer work outside of the home.
6. There are many days I firmly believe there has been an error regarding my lab work and that I do not have Rheumatoid Arthritis. Then God gives me a really crapy day and I get a not so friendly reminder.
7. It really grates on my nerves when people judge me for having caffeine while pregnant. Like I would do anything to hurt Burke. My doctor gave me permission to have two caffeinated drinks per day and I enjoy both of them!
8. I have never done any drugs. I used to say I would smoke marijuana if I got cancer, but I've been to too many concerts and the smell is horrible.
9. I enjoy playing "kitchen" with my nieces. I sure hope Santa brings them the kitchen from Pottery Barn Kids!
10. As much as I like living in Texas, Kansas is better!
11. I like California rolls from HEB better than any sushi restaurant.
12. I worked at a soccer store for about a week. I didn't know and still don't know a thing about soccer. Lord help me if Burke wants to play soccer. Boring....
13. I change the ending to movies if I don't like how they end. I just tell myself...that character didn't die, they got together and grew old together.
14. When I am nervous I laugh. And it isn't a little chuckle, it is loud laughter. I don't know why. Generally it happens when something is not going right for my sister. She gets very stressed so I laugh. Not cool.
15. In high school, I dined and dashed one time. Let me tell you though that the line to pay was insanely long and we ate there all the time. When I go back to my hometown I always stop by the Anchor Inn, of course, I stop to have some good food, but I also still feel I need to pay my debt for my $5.95 meal that I didn't pay for!

So that's a few things about me. I tag Carrie, Marci, and Jennifer. Can't wait to read all about you!

Drumroll....the results are in!

2008-11-12T08:17:00.006-06:00

I was on the phone talking to Greg heating up my oatmeal, that was laced with sugar and I said, "oh no...it's the clinic on the other line". My wonderful nurse Andrea, was there waiting for me when I clicked over. She said, "it looks like Greg gets a new Playstation 3!" Of course, I was so happy! The story keeps getting better, as I changed the deal with Greg. I wanted to back out of the deal, obviously on his part. Meaning, if I did have diabetes I would still get the purse, but if I didn't he wouldn't get the Playstation because, well, that would be punishing me twice. He agreed to two new games for his XBOX 360. God is so good!

Oh yeah...real quick. On Monday night Burke was a wild child while I slept...or tried to sleep. I woke up for my routine of going to the bathroom at 2:00 a.m. and then he was crazy! He was kicking big time. A couple of times I couldn't keep quiet. It was weird, funny, but truly awesome! Which left me to drift off to sleep with the biggest smile! I had told him earlier in the day to lay off the soda or he would be up all night, but he didn't listen. haha!

And for the record...I really need a new purse, so check back for my celebration present...a new Coach!

Thank you for your prayers.

Alicia

Gestational Diabetes screening and a Bet

2008-11-10T09:16:00.004-06:00

I have been dreading this day. I just feel rather confident I have gestational diabetes. I am at high risk because, 1. I am overweight, 2. I have Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, 3. I am over the age of 30. I have been dying of thirst for about four days, which is a sign of diabetes. I am leaving to have my screening done here shortly. Please pray I don't have this. While I know it won't be the end of the world, I know that I can control it, I just don't want to have this to worry about too.
I have made a CRAZY bet with Greg. Basically, I am so sure I have this diabetes crap that I made a horrendous bet. If I don't have diabetes then I must buy, my oh so addicted husband, a Playstation 3. Keep in mind he already has an XBOX 360 and a Wii. But if God forbid I do have GD I get a new Coach handbag. Go ahead, tell me how crazy I am. But first pray I am at Best Buy buying a Playstation 3!

I'll keep you posted on the results.

Alicia

26 Weeks!!!

2008-11-06T13:13:00.007-06:00

Burke and I are doing well. Last Sunday, Greg was finally able to feel Burke move/kick. We were lying in bed and Greg was resting his hand on my belly. Almost immediately Burke gave his Daddy a little kick. It was great! I had been rather sad as Greg still had not felt Burke. I have told you all this before, that my stomach is my biggest weight problem area so I knew it would be a while before Greg would be able to feel him. But finally at 26 weeks Burke wanted to let his Daddy know he just may grow up to be a punter for KU! I slept so good that night!

We see Dr. P on Monday for my Gestational Diabetes screening. I am nervous about this test as I know I am higher risk to get it. Greg has reassured me that if I get it he will follow the same diet. What a great hubby I have.

To all the parents or even soon to be parents, I have a question. When you became pregnant or when you got close to your adoption, did it seem every expense possible came up? Since becoming pregnant, our Air Conditioner has went out twice, our refrigerator has went out, our spa heater went out, our pool pump had issues, and now today I found out we have roof damage from Hurricane Ike. It just seems it has been one thing after another. It is starting to get old!

I need to get this posted so I'm going to wrap it up. I hope you all have a great weekend.

Love,

Alicia

25 Weeks!

2008-10-29T09:04:00.005-06:00

I am 25 weeks and three days! I can't believe how quickly being pregnant has gone. I mean some days are slow, but for the most part it is flying by. Greg and I had a nice time while he was off. Greg got lots of stuff done. And for the most part we are ready for Burke to arrive. His nursery is adorable! I will post pictures when it is completely finished. We took a quick trip to San Antonio and that was fun! My sister helped me get registered at Babies R Us. Wow! That store is amazing! I think I went a little crazy with the scanner, but it sure was fun to dream and wish! Actually, if I get nothing but Burke all my dreams will come true.

So this week I am experiencing back pain big time! And let me tell you it isn't so fun. Last night I woke up on my back (which is a no no, I know, but I didn't purposely lay in that position) and it was killing me! OMGosh it was hurting. It was miserable. I tossed and turned all night. This morning I feel fine, but sleeping was not enjoyable. Other than the back pain I still feel great! I have started to gain weight, which I knew was inevitable, but I was sure hoping to not gain any until the last month. I have officially gained seven pounds. I have a never ending craving for sweets. Maybe it is the Halloween candy, but it is a sweet tooth like I have never had. This concerns me as Burke's daddy has a major sweet tooth! Whenever I put a piece of chocolate in my mouth I simply say, "Burke wanted it". It seems to work quite well! Greg doesn't give me any grief!

We received the awesome Cd's that I told you all about. Love, love, love, them. In fact, I told myself to stop listening to them as I don't want to be sick of them by the time Burke arrives!

I think of Burke pretty much all the time. I have my concerns about being a good enough Mom. About making sure his childhood is as full as mine was. About giving him everything Greg didn't have. About being positive enough, patient enough, confident enough, calm enough, etc. Greg and I have been married almost 15 years. Our life is going to change and it will never be the same. It is a wonderful feeling, but at times it makes me scared. God gave me this incredible gift and I just want to be the Mom that I know I was meant to be. All I want is to be Super Mom! I hope my expectations aren't too high!

Happy Halloween!

Alicia

24 Weeks!

2008-10-22T10:32:00.009-05:00

Everything is going great! I saw my OB yesterday and he was very happy with how Burke is progressing. I am doing a 24 hour urine collection to get a base line of protein in my urine. My OB does this for anyone who has had high blood pressure in the past. Which I have. I do not currently have high blood pressure, but he wants to have a base line test in case my blood pressure were to increase. So I am having fun today collecting my urine! Sorry if that was too much info!

Greg is on vacation this week! Yahoo! Since we can't travel we are just relaxing around the house. There were still a few "to do" things left, but we are wrapping them all up. I am going to get the curtains hung today in Burke's room. His room is looking very cute...I must say!

I found the neatest lullaby songs! I just have to share them. I love music and I am a die hard lover of The Smashing Pumpkins. Greg loves Metalica and we both like U2. I found lullaby's made by our favorite rock bands to the songs we grew up singing, or should I say rocking out too! If you take the link from this page, scroll down a bit and you will see where you can listen to samples. I just placed my order today! I just loved them and I'm sure Burke will too! Let me know what you think!

My lovely nieces were here this past weekend. It was so great to see them! I have really missed them. The girls were pretty excited to see the crib in Auntie's house! I love those girls so much! Here are a few pictures!

I hope this finds you all doing well. Thanks for stopping by! Take care and check out those lullaby songs! They ROCK!

Love,

Alicia

23 Weeks!!

2008-10-16T12:10:00.000-05:00

Our nursery furniture arrived last Thursday! Can you say excited! When Greg got home there were five large boxes on our patio. I thought Greg would probably wait and set all the furniture up on the weekend. Nope! He got right to work. He had the crib assembled in about an hour. Our only hang up was the side that slides up and down. I have asked around and it seems most parents have problems with that side! He set up the bookshelf on Friday and we are waiting for the dresser to be delivered. We were super busy!

Greg had three days off and I can't say we did anything other than nest! We worked on the back yard, decorated for fall, hung three ceiling fans (which is mandatory in Houston), and we went to Target to register. Our Target had been damaged in the hurricane so I went to the new Target. It was so picked over. It was terrible. We went ahead and scanned a few things, but today I am headed to Babies R Us to register. The most exciting thing is, that I found the stroller of my dreams! I absolutely love it and it is a must for someone with RA. I am so excited to stroll Burke around in it!

My sister and nieces weren't able to come last weekend so they will be here tomorrow. My niece Addy, who is just five months old had to have surgery. It was nothing too major, but poor Addy had a rough go. Hopefully she will be back to her old self when she gets here.

Greg starts vacation on Sunday! Yahoo!!! His last vacation was Thanksgiving of last year. It was our choice to wait this long. But I must say his vacation is much needed. I just hope we don't kill each other spending nine days together! Haha!

Burke is moving more and more each day! It is such a wonderful feeling! I just love it. I know I type that every week, sorry...it's just an amazing feeling! People have asked how my RA is doing. It is actually doing very well. I have had a couple days where I don't feel so great, but usually if I just rest I feel better. I can honestly say that I have never felt this free of symptoms since I was diagnosed eight years ago. All the powerful drugs don't compare to the antibodies that baby Burke is putting into my system. Truly a God thing.

Until week 24!

Alicia

Our baby boy has a name!

2008-10-06T10:44:00.024-05:00

The name was decided on many years ago. It was decided when we were going to college and had no idea how long it would be before getting the chance to give a cute little baby boy his name. The thing was we forgot about that name. We had selected three names we liked. For some reason I couldn't commit. Then, Greg said, "what happened to Burke?" I said, "that's his name!" I knew that moment that was my baby's name. Burke William. Where did Burke come from you ask? We had a friend in college. Ryan Burke. Everyone called him Burke. And I loved that name. William is Greg's middle name. When I found out we were having a boy I just had to give him Greg's middle name. Doesn't it sound perfect?! He is my little Burkie. He has a cute name, but a strong name. His name is not popular..which if you know me, you knew I wouldn't pick a popular name. His name is different, but not too different, it's perfect!

I am 22 weeks today! I can't believe it. I had Greg take my picture this weekend and I do look a little pregnant! I gained two pounds in one week. Wow! How in the world did that happen? I feel great though. I sleep like a baby, except when I wake up to go to the bathroom. Then Burke gives me a little squirm and I can't fall back asleep. I am too excited to sleep. I just love how it feels to feel him. I am still walking two miles a day and enjoy it thoroughly again. There was a time it was just too much work, but it isn't now. Life is very good!

I wanted to tell you about my friend Marcy. She follows my blog and I follow her blog. We both are in line to adopt from China, we both are Jayhawks, we both love Kansas. Both of our lives have taken a different turn, as Marcy, is now adopting from Kazygstan, and as you all know, I am pregnant. Marcy sent me the cutest gift this last week. I wanted to show you all!

Cute isn't it! And Burke will love it! Thanks again Marcy! I really hope we can meet up in KC sometime!

This past week we ordered Burke's furniture! I finally got all the sorting done, the closets are cleaned, and the drawers are semiorganized! Thursday night we sat down and made our big purchase. I love what we got Burke. I am a very light furniture girl. Our master bedroom is white wood. Our living room is white and honey. Our dinning room is a darker honey. I knew if I had a boy I wanted his room to be a dark Espresso! I LOVE it! I just can't wait to have it in his room!

Ok, this is getting a little long. My sister and nieces will be here Friday. I can't wait to see them! I plan on doing some scrapbooking this week...I need to get caught up!

Burke and I thank you for checking in on us. If you click on the pictures you can see the ultrasound and the china set better. Of course, you can also see that my skin is very blotchy during this pregnancy. I hear that is normal?!

Love,

Alicia

21 Weeks!

2008-10-01T10:17:00.008-05:00

Our little baby boy is making his mama smile all the time. I am finally able to feel the little guy moving, wiggling, maybe even punting! Last Friday, I had been busy all day. I finally laid down as I was exhausted. Suddenly, I felt him. I felt my baby boy! Five days later, it seems that I feel him more and more often. I was stressing that I hadn't felt him. My OB kept saying, "you'll feel him". He was right and what a feeling it is!! So, you want to know our baby boy's name? OK...I'll tell you next week!

This past weekend we did some serious shopping. We bought the baby's nursery bedding. PBK had the set I liked on sale. I knew once it went on sale it would sell out. So, Saturday night we went down and bought it! I love it! I also, had to break down and buy some maternity shirts. Suddenly all my shirts became belly shirts. Not cool! My sister, and friend, Carrie, will be proud of me!

Of course, once I had the bedding all bought I knew I needed to buy the actual furniture. Well, I've been dragging my feet on this one as the baby room had become the "catch all" room. Monday, Greg started moving stuff. And before I knew it we had already gotten a lot done. I am almost finished. I've had to do a lot of sorting and debating if I really like some of the decor that I have that hasn't been out since our last move two years ago. I decided I didn't. I have the donation center coming tomorrow and I have three boxes full of stuff. Plus, I am a scrapbooker. And I think all srapbookers will agree...we simply get too much stuff. We like everything, but we always find something else we like better and end up having a TON of stuff that is never used. I confess I think I am a pack rat.

I read in my nursing book that anything that annoyed you before the baby will totally annoy you once you have the baby, i.e. my disaster of a closet! So, as soon as I type this I am going to go tackle the closet. More stuff to donate, I'm sure of that!

I have to tell you real quick what a good wife I am. After our big appointment at Dr.K's last Thursday. I told Greg I wanted Ben and Jerry's Ice cream...the best ice cream in the world. Well, as we were driving there Greg said "well the Gingerman is right down the road, I could sure go for a celebration beer". I smiled and said, "sure honey, I'd love to go sit and watch you drink a beer and then drive home in Houston rush hour"! Greg was happy, and it was a nice day to sit outside and drink water!!

I hope you all are having a great week! It is starting to feel fall like here. I love it! Certainly, not like fall in Lawrence, KS, but it is cooling off.

Until next week!

Alicia

Just the words a Mama wants to hear....

2008-09-25T19:16:00.004-05:00

I am breathing a huge sigh of relief. I have been since about 3:00 p.m. today. We saw Dr. K and he said everything looks good. When I asked him, "does my baby look great?, he replied, "yes he does"! Just the words a Mama wants to hear! We got to see many pictures of our cutie pie. We even got to see him in 3-D several times! Amazing, is all I can say! I am so happy, so relieved, so thrilled! Our baby boy was a little ahead of schedule which is great news since his Mama takes Lovenox, which can slow down baby growth. He weighed 14 ounces! He is 100% a boy! We got to see his package again today. There is no doubt he is a boy!

I am a shopping maniac. Greg and I are having a blast! I think my sister is too. She was up shopping on line the other morning. We hope to order our nursery here soon. I will post some pictures of what I have bought here very soon!

Thanks for all your thoughts and prayers. We love you all!

Boy, oh Boy!

2008-09-24T04:22:00.006-05:00

Hi! I'll get right to the point! We made it home yesterday. We did a few things around the house and then we headed to my OB. My nurse asked if I had seen the Specialist and I informed her that I had to be rescheduled. She said, Dr. P may want to do an ultrasound since I am 20 weeks. She asked when I was rescheduled for and I told her on Thursday, but not to tell Dr. P, because if he knows that he may not do the ultrasound. She said let me do some talking to him. She came back giving me the all good sign. Then Dr. P came in and discussed how I was doing. He said when is your appt. with Dr. K? I said "next Thursday". Then out of no where I panicked thinking what if I tell him next Thursday and in actuallity it is this Thursday and it could harm the baby. You know having too many ultrasounds. Can that happen? My mind was racing. So, then I had to say, actually my appointment is this Thursday, my mind is mush! He said, no problem we will still do a quick peek!!!

Greg and I headed down to the ultrasound room. We were both so excited. I just knew though that they wouldn't be able to see, as you know we weren't supposed to find out today. I laid on the table, they put the wand to my belly, and boom to my surprise there was a little penis! WE ARE HAVING A BOY!!!! Out of all the pictures I have seen this pregnancy, there was no doubt our little guy was very proud of his package and wanted to show it to his parents! Greg and I both had huge tears of pure joy and excitement! They took several other pictures including, his hands, feet, profile picture, and legs. Now, I must tell you that I knew I was having a boy! I had said since day one, I think this is a boy! I didn't tell anyone, but Greg, but I knew. Then yesterday on our drive home from Ft. Worth, I said to Greg, "I don't want to say this too loud as I don't want the baby to hear, but I secretly want a boy!"

There you have it...we are having a BOY! We went and bought some cute little outfits from Janie and Jack and that was so much fun! I'll post some pictures soon of the outfits! I've never bought boy clothes, except for my friend Sarah's baby boy! I come from a family of all girls. Then we headed to Pottery Barn Kids to get the final numbers on the nursery. I had been having a hard time deciding on the nursery. My sister was right, once I knew the sex of the baby it wasn't hard to decide at all.

What a wonderful day! We are so excited and happy! Our baby finally has a name and I will share it with you soon! I feel like I can really start preparing now. However, I can't sleep tonight. It is 4:00 a.m. and I have been up since 3:00. I just keep thinking about the baby!

We did come home to a mess of a pool though. Greg has some major work cut out for him. Luckily, our good friend Brian is coming over to help him today. Other than the pool being a swamp, our house did great. When we got home, all up and down our street people had drive ways full of trees. Our house on the front looked just like it did the day we left. We are blessed. The house feels dirty though, so I am doing some cleaning today and of course, I have to go buy all new groceries. The pool, groceries, and cleaning seems so small though. Life is so good. We are having a baby boy and we just couldn't be happier. We see the Speciaist on Thursday. Please pray that we get all good news. I just want to hear "your baby boy looks perfect...I'll settle for, "your baby boy looks fine"! I'll write more on Thursday.

Love,

Alicia

Darn you, Ike!

2008-09-14T20:31:00.003-05:00

Hi friends! I wanted to let you know that Greg and I are doing fine. Our house made it through the hurricane and we are so thankful for that. We are so fortunate that the Railroad sent us to Ft. Worth. We are staying here until power is restored in our area. Our dear neighbors are watching our house and using our kitchen as we have a gas stove. We are so thankful that they stuck around and are willing to take care of everything. We owe them big time! From what we are hearing Houston is a mess. My neighbor said she waited three hours for a bag of ice. Please pray for all the people of the Houston/Galveston area.

Our big day is canceled though. I told myself when we left on Thursday that more than likely I wouldn't have my appointment for my BIG ultrasound on Monday. I cried big time yesterday when I realized it wouldn't happen. I cried mainly, because I wanted to hear that everything was fine. Yes, I wanted to know if we have a little Alicia or a little Greg growing in my tummy, but mainly I wanted to know that my medication wasn't doing anything harmful to our baby. I won't be hearing that tomorrow. I don't know when I will have the ultrasound. I am going to call tomorrow, but who knows if they will even be open. I am not going to feel sorry for myself. People have it much worse than we do, and I am just thankful that tonight we are sleeping in a cool hotel, our house is ok, and we have wonderful neighbors.

Again, I ask that you pray for all of the people of Houston/Galveston. They are currently saying it could be 2-4 weeks before Electricity is restored. And keep in mind this is Houston, TX where it is still 90 degrees. I'll keep you all updated.

Love,

Alicia

18 Weeks and Ike

2008-09-11T05:56:00.004-05:00

My good friend, Jinny, commented that there were no photos of me. So, I had Greg take a picture so I could show you all that I do not look pregnant. I knew this would happen to me as I am a classic apple body shape. Yes, that is me, skinny legs, and all middle. I have not gained any weight, and have actually lost weight, as food just makes me more nauseated. My OB says this is fine, since I started out with some extra padding. It is annoying that this is the one time in my life where craving food and acting on that craving is acceptable. I just have food adversions. But you know what, I know I am pregnant and that is all I need!

Ike is making more turmoil for the Gulf. We are evacuating this morning at 7:00. As you can imagine, I am a little stressed this time. I have my BIG appointment on Monday and it stresses me to think we will be driving back Sunday night or Monday morning. Greg told work he couldn't fly this time. The corporate jet was neat and all, but been there done that. We can't be at the company's mercy to get us back in time for our appointment. Pray that we don't have any issues with travel or sitting in heavy traffic (which stresses me out to no end with a blood clotting disorder). Please pray for all my friends who are staying in Houston. They are much braver than I am.

I am going to make this post short as I need to be packing. I will post on Monday to tell you our news. Oh yeah, real quick. I dreamt the other night the Perineonatologist said "your baby girl looks fine". I don't necessarily believe in dreams but I woke up and there was no getting back to sleep. All I want to hear from that doctor is "your baby looks fine, healthy, or perfect".

Love,

Alicia

17 Weeks!

2008-09-04T13:44:00.008-05:00

Can you believe I am 17 weeks pregnant?! I seriously cannot believe it! Some days it just seems so hard to believe. So hard to believe, that God finally blessed me with carrying this wonderful gift. I could go on and on, but I won't...

Last Friday, we went to see Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers! It was a great concert and I sang and danced to my hearts content! I was however, very annoyed with the amount of marijuana being smoked. I mean, come on people. It is a public venue and my ticket cost as much as yours. Why should I have to breath in that crap all evening?! I absolutely could not stand the smoke. I couldn't stand thinking "I'm exposing my baby to this horrible smelling stuff". I expected some marijuana, but geez, it was everywhere. I will quit complaining and tell you about the people we saw. We saw, Rat Tail Grandma, T-back, and Belt girl. If you want details..let me know. I'll tell you all about them.

Then, on Sunday, we officially evacuated with Greg's work. We flew in the corporate jet to Ft. Worth. I must say it was very swanky and pretty neat! I know I will probably never do this again in my life. I told Greg, he either needs to become a Big Shot or win the lottery. We both laughed, and said, the lottery had better odds! So, we spent three days in Ft. Worth. It was relaxing for me. Not for Greg, who worked his rear off. Have I ever mentioned Greg is amazing at his job and he NEVER complains! He has worked two weeks straight, on call 24/7 and still never complains. Thanks Greg for being the man you are. You are such a trooper! I love you!

We are home now, and we never even got a drop of rain. Greg is still tired and I think he will be until his vacation September 23. I am feeling OK. Things are changing, moving, shifting, stretching, etc. Some days...well just aren't the best. It looks like most people think we will have a boy! Thanks for voting! You guys are great fans! Speaking of fans, Kansas Football season has begun! Rock Chalk Jayhawk!

I hope you all are doing well!

Until next week,

Alicia

16 Weeks!!

2008-08-28T15:45:00.003-05:00

****Update
Greg took pity on my blog and put a poll over on the right side of the page! So, be sure to vote!****

This has been the longest week I have had in a long time. That darn hurricane, Gustav, is making Greg's job crazy and he is working all the time. To make things worse he had a staff meeting last night. I have cabin fever big time! I am bored out of my mind. The good news is that we have an appointment set for September 15 with the Perineonatologist for my Level 2 Ultrasound! This is the big day when we will find out if we are having a boy or girl! We can't wait to know!

We saw my OB on Monday and things are progressing wonderfully! My nurse, Andrea was back and I was so happy to see her. I have seen her several times in the last year. I was always saying "I can't stand coming here seeing all these pregnant women". She was so kind. She didn't tell me until she was literally about to pop that she was one of those women. Oh boy, did I feel bad. I apologized profusely, but I still felt like a real idiot knowing I had said it so many times. Anyway, when I saw her I was so happy to see her. She said "I was looking through my list of pregnant people coming in this week and to my surprise I saw your name!" It was great seeing her and of course being so proud that I was finally pregnant!

I have officially started wearing maternity pants. I was miserable. I made it 16 weeks, well actually 15 weeks, but suddenly nothing around my waist felt comfortable. I hit the jackpot, with Heather giving me a TON of maternity clothes. However, none of them were shorts. And it is dang hot here still. I went shopping the other day and there are NO shorts left. I think there were a total of 15 shorts and 10 of them were smalls. The others were hochie mama shorts or basically capris on these short legs. So, no shorts for me, until I get desperate and cut the legs off a pair of the jeans Heather gave me!

So the big day is September 15! Greg and I can't wait to give our baby the name that we have picked out. It will be nice to say "him or her" rather than "the baby". I seriously don't know how people can wait to find out until the big day. Quite honestly, we just aren't that patient! People who can wait are amazing! Greg and I do not care what God gives us. We just can't wait to know! Let's vote and see what you all think we will have. I wish I knew how to set up a poll, but you all know I am not up to speed on those kinds of things. Just leave a comment on whether you think we are having a boy or girl. Also, you can always be anonymous and just sign your name at the bottom. I have been told that many people don't leave comments, because they don't want to register. So go ahead and just be anonymous.

I hope you all have a wonderful Labor Day weekend. I will be dreaming of going on a boat ride. I remind myself that next summer I will have a baby riding in the boat with me! Oh, won't that be wonderful!! If you have a boat, get out and enjoy it...for me!

Love,

Alicia

15 weeks and a few of my favorite things

2008-08-20T07:50:00.003-05:00

I am 15 weeks three days pregnant today! Yahoo! Tonight I am having my Poker group over and I should be cleaning and baking, but I can't get motivated. I don't think my friends will judge me if my house isn't clean...at least I hope they won't! Here are a few of my favorites in no particular order!

Some of my Favorite Things

1. Lawrence, Kansas in the Fall, on Campus, wearing jeans and a sweatshirt

2. Spending time with my family

3. Pizza

4. Going on long boat rides, packing a lunch, and hanging out in the sun for the day!

5. A clean house

6. Bikram Yoga...which I miss terribly

7. Thanksgiving...I should say I love Thanksgiving, because I love all the excitement following Thanksgiving. You know the shopping, decorating, baking, etc, to get ready for Christmas!

8. Kansas Basketball

9. Going out to eat

10. Going to the Zoo

11. Birkenstocks...is there any other shoe? I know, not a fashion statement, but I love them!

12. Being pregnant!

14 Weeks!

2008-08-15T07:34:00.010-05:00

I cannot believe I am 14 weeks 4 days pregnant! This has been the most wonderful summer of my life. On some days I feel like the pregnancy is blowing by, but then on some days I'm like 25 more weeks... hurry up...I want to meet this baby of mine! Each day I have a new thought, feeling, etc. I think about the baby constantly. I feel like my mind is mush. I ran into a curb the other day with my car (I didn't tell Greg) I was thinking about this baby of mine, and turned a little too tight. I ramble on and on about stuff and then stop myself and think, "what did I just say". I dream about the baby. Baby thoughts are constant. When I go for my walks, I think of the baby the whole time. I catch myself crying on the path. I quickly try to get a grip, and hope no one notices my tears. If they do I will just say "I'm pregnant and oh, so happy!"

I don't know if any of you realize this, but I had pretty much convinced myself parenthood wasn't in the cards for me. We had met the requirements for China, got in line, and waited. The wait for China was not what we had signed up for. I'm 99% sure had we known it would take this long we would have picked another country or Domestic adoption. Despite going to the OB and him telling me "I think we can get you pregnant", I just didn't believe it. I was afraid to believe it. What if I believed him and then this didn't happen either. In April, when Heather had Addy, I watched her delivery. Maybe, it wasn't the smartest thing I've done, because quite honestly, the whole thing broke my heart. I wanted a baby. I was mad at the world. I couldn't believe how unfair life was.

In May, I called Greg home from work. I have never done this. His job is much too busy and making calls to come home, is just not something I do. But I just KNEW this was the day I was going to get pregnant. Greg thought I was crazy, but being the man he is, he kindly obliged. That is the week I got pregnant! God led me to call Greg and I am so happy He did. What a miracle. People used to always tell me "God's timing is always perfect". When they said it, it irritated me. I thought "easy for you to say...you have a child". But I will tell you this...I believe this statement wholeheartedly now, God's timing is always perfect. And I wouldn't want this joy, excitment, love of my life, any other time or any other way. I was meant to carry this baby and have this overwhelming joy that sometimes takes my breath away.

Until next week,

Alicia

13 Weeks!

2008-08-09T14:44:00.004-05:00

This week has been full and busy! My sister, and my nieces, were here for a week! We had a fun time and I miss them already! The house is much too quiet with them gone. Lilly, who is two, wanted to stay with Auntie and I wanted to say, "sure you can stay another week". I knew though that her Uncle Gregie was tired and ready for some peace!

We did lots of shopping for my nieces and lots of dreaming for my baby! I wanted to buy so much, but since I don't know the sex of the baby I just couldn't buy any outfits. I did finally purchase this diaper bag that I have wanted forever! I saw it at Pottery Barn Kids about two years ago. I said, "when I get my baby I want that bag"! To my surprise, PBK still had the bag and better yet it was on sale!

I know there will be many more bags for me...as I love handbags, but it was fun to purchase my first baby bag!

Heather was so much fun to have around. She shared so much with me. She is quite the pro at having babies! She had lots of advice, tips, and just reassured me about all my worries. Thanks Heather!

Overall things are going great! I feel so much better now. I don't have the nausea anymore. My doctor had told me to stop drinking so much water (I have always been a huge water drinker) and to switch to Gatorade. I started drinking that G2, by Gatorade, and it has helped me immensely. Also, I love ice cream, but ice cream doesn't agree with me right now. On the occasions that I have actually vomited it has been after ice cream. So, no more ice cream for me. Greg said, "the baby must be lactose intolerant". I don't think there is any truth to that one, but who knows.

I'm not sure I have told you all how awesome Greg has been! I knew Greg was amazing before getting pregnant, but gee whiz, he has been so wonderful to me. He just goes with the flow. If at the last minute I don't want to cook supper and say "can we just have grilled cheese?" he says, "sure". If a commercial makes me cry he gives me a hug and laughs at the fact. If I have worries, he reassures me that all will be fine and perfect. He tells me I am the most beautiful Mama he has ever seen. Who would have thought at 18 years old I knew this was my Prince. I love you Greg!

Ok, better go, I'm crying huge tears and I need to watch the Olympic Basketball game!

Alicia

12 Weeks!

2008-07-29T13:16:00.007-05:00

I decided to change the blog a little. What do you think? The colors of the University of Kansas are Crimson and Blue. I wanted to spruce things up a bit and what better color choices! I actually, wanted to pay to have our blog done professionally, but Greg thought that was ridiculous, so you all are just stuck with what I can do for free on Blogger.

We saw my OB on Monday. We most importantly got to see the baby. The baby was wiggling all over and raised its arm as to say, "hi mom and dad". I only cried for a moment this time...usually I cry through the whole thing. I wanted to really see the baby and you can't see if you are crying big tears! Our OB said "The baby looks perfect"! Just what we want to hear at every visit! We asked a few questions...I am quite certain our OB gets tired of all our questions, but we are first time parents, we are older, and we are SUPER excited!

I was very bummed though that we won't have another Ultrasound until week 20, when we go to downtown Houston to have a very "thorough" ultrasound. To me, being high risk, and having frequent ultrasounds was one of the perks to being classified as high risk. I guess, it is a good sign though, to not need them all the time. It sure was great seeing the little baby so often.

Our doctor said "you know this is a miracle baby don't you? Chronic hypertension, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Polycystic Ovaries, and absolutely no fertility drugs. I said..."oh yes, we say every night that we have a miracle baby growing in me!!"

Until next week,

Alicia

11 Weeks!

2008-07-24T09:16:00.002-05:00

My friend said to me last night "you haven't updated this week". I am really not good at posting this often. Plus there really isn't much to say. I will tell you this, in the past I have not been the most sympathetic person when it comes to "morning sickness". I'm always like "yeah..whatever...you get to be pregnant, stop your complaining". So it has been very difficult for me to admit that Morning Sickness is very real. That it can get the best of you. Now, I will never complain about not feeling the best, but I definitely don't feel like the old Alicia. I have tried to down play the nausea, but let's be honest....it has been ugly. I have vomited on a few occasions, but for the most part it is just this constant nausea. I thought I was through it, but this week, well my body wanted to remind me that I am very pregnant!!

I am also tired beyond description. I could sleep all day. I make myself get up at 6:00 a.m. to go and walk. Today I was thrilled that "Dolly" is creating some rain in Houston and I couldn't go outside to walk. Yay! But now I know I must clean my house, and well, I don't really want to do that either. I would prefer rest on the couch! Keep in mind I was out last night until 11:30 playing cards with my card group that meets once a month. Unfortunately, I did terrible. Oh well, it was nice visiting with the girls!

We get to see the baby on Monday! We can't wait!! Do you all remember when Tom Cruise bought Katie an ultrasound machine? I thought how incredibly strange. Let me tell you...if I had the money I would! I would love to hear the baby's heart beat every morning and see our baby growing strong and healthy.

I am 11 weeks 4 days pregnant. It is a wonderful feeling. Last night at cards three out of six girls were pregnant! How fun! Please keep Sarah, who is due Sept. 28 and Carrie, who is due in March, in your prayers also.

See you next week!

10 Weeks!!

2008-07-15T18:03:00.005-05:00

I usually only post about once a month, but there is just so much excitement that I can't contain myself. I have made many friends through the blogging world and most of them post quite often. So, I'm going to start posting at least weekly. I hope I don't bore you to death!

Our house is the happiest house we have ever had. Greg and I walk around with a permanent smile on our face. Saturday after church we went to dinner with our friends Darin and Dionne and all their family. We had a nice time. While driving home Greg said "I'm just so happy". My heart danced to hear that. I have to agree, I too am just so happy!

I feel really good. I have had a little bit of nausea, but nothing major. I continue to walk and I must say today kicked my butt! I just felt exhausted. I wasn't half way done and I wanted to turn around. I kept trucking...knowing my exercise will keep me healthy and keep the blood flowing!

I started Lovenox (blood thinner) on Tuesday of last week for the Factor V. I give myself a shot every morning at 6:00 a.m. Through the years I have had to take shots for my RA. Many days I would skip my shot. It hurt, or I forgot, or some other lame excuse for missing my shot. Let me tell you this is one shot I do NOT forget. The Mama clock in me wakes up every day at 6:00 for this shot. It isn't a big deal to take the shot, it is however, a HUGE deal if I don't do it.

Greg is in Ft. Worth today and I didn't like him leaving. I have great neighbors though and I know if I need anything they will be here for me. Tomorrow I get to see all my Bunko/Texas Hold Em' friends for a day of swimming. I am looking forward to seeing them all. This summer has went rather quickly, but I am going to miss my time at the lake this year. My OB doesn't want me any further than three hours away. There is nothing better than being on the boat with the sun beating down on me...well, actually there is....being PREGNANT!

One last thing. The blogging world is amazing! I have come across some amazing blogs, blogs of courage, loss, adoption, faith, etc. I have also realized that there are so many woman out there struggling with one thing or another. I have met a lady by the name of Michelle. She was one of the first people to know I was pregnant. I posted on another blog that I was praying for a lady that I feared had Factor V. I mentioned that I was pregnant with Factor V. Michelle read my post and came by my blog and said, simply, she was praying for me. I went to Michelle's blog to find out who she was. I read and read. Then I came across Bring the Rain friends. And there it was...my name...Michelle has a list of people that she thinks needs prayer. I cried, oh boy did I cry. Michelle, I do not know you yet, but you made my day when I saw that you did that. It amazes me how many wonderful people there are in this world. People who think others are important. People who take the time to pray for so many others, despite what is going on in their own lives. Oh boy...here I go again...crying. Thank you Michelle. Now, I am asking all of you to read Michelle's blog and Bring the Rain and that you will pray for Michelle's daughter and Audrey's family.

Until next week....

Alicia

I never thought I would type this, but here goes....

2008-07-07T19:41:00.004-05:00

We are PREGNANT!! Yes, it is true! After 14 years of just Greg and Alicia we are finally expecting a baby! We found out on June 27. I am nine weeks pregnant and we are ecstatic! We are thrilled, excited, happy, and maybe just a tad nervous!

Now you ask how did this happen? Well, I think we all know that one, but I will give you a little more info. Last September I went to the OB and said "I want a baby. Our China adoption is going nowhere and I am sick of waiting". I talked to my Rheumatologist who said he would support my decision, but that I would need to realize my pregnancy could be difficult with my RA. I said "I will be miserable for nine months to have my dream come true". I was told I had to get off three medications before we could begin trying. By November I was off one medicine, by Feb. the second one was gone, and on June 4 I took my last RA medication. We were to start Fertility drugs in June, but you guessed it....we didn't need them, we got pregnant on our own!!! My OB says it is because I lost weight and was so determined to make this work! Yeah!!! Talk about amazing!!

We have had two ultrasounds already and we are asking for prayers. I have a lovely thing called Factor V. It is rather scary, but I will fight with all my might and I know our baby will too. This baby is our "miracle" baby. I just can't tell you how happy we are. I have huge tears as I type this. They are tears of happiness that I never thought I would have.

Greg and I celebrate our Anniversary on July 9. We will be married 14 years! There is no Anniversary gift that could compare to this. My heart is overflowing with joy. I am just so happy. Thank you all for your love and support. Thank you especially to my sister, who has listened to this know it all for so many years. In case you don't know this....I know everything. But let me tell you this...I know nothing about being pregnant. Heather, has given me so much information about being pregnant, she has researched Factor V, she has been my best friend and I am so thankful God blessed me with her as my sister.

Ok...I will keep you all updated. We see the OB in three weeks for another ultrasound. I have a feeling we are going to be regulars for ultrasounds.

With much love,

Alicia

A little about me...

2008-06-18T08:02:00.003-05:00

After my post about starting my new jogging regiment I was pumped. I was going to become a runner! Little did I know that sometimes the best laid plans don't always work out! For those of you who don't know me that well, I will tell you that eight years ago I was going to college, at the most awesome school in the world the University of Kansas. I started having pain in my shoulder and hips. I thought "I sure am out of shape, this back pack is killing me". I had no insurance and there was NO way I could be sick. But this pain wouldn't go away. It started to spread. Like into my hands and wrist. What is this that is going on? Luckily, for Greg and I we worked for a Family Physician and of course he saw me for free. He did labs and said "you need to see a Rheumatologist". He gave me a lovely medication called Prednisone and in about a week I felt fabulous! So obviously nothing was wrong with me...right? Not so fast....after canceling my appointment with the Rheumatologist (I wasn't sick afterall) I continued to feel well for about two weeks. And then this ugly monster snuck up and wouldn't go away. My doctor wouldn't give me Prednisone due to the fact that he worried I would never go see the Rheumatologist. I remember that time and honestly I was barely able to move. It was ugly. Long story short...I found out at 25 years of age that I had Rheumatoid Arthritis. I guess you could say I was in complete denial. I was told on my first visit to the Rheumatolgist that I would start another lovely drug...Methotrexate and children were out of the question. Which totally blew all the plans Greg and I had. Our plan was to get an education and then start a family. Well Greg was to graduate that December and this was October. Getting pregnant in January suddenly wasn't going to happen. Denial came and didn't leave for two years. I was depressed, I gained weight, I just couldn't believe our luck.

That was eight years ago and wow has life changed. I have taken many medications for my RA. And finally found one that works well for me. RA is very different than Arthritis. It actually is an autoimmune disease that primarily attacks joints, but can attack organs..which is scary! I have great days where you would never know there is something wrong with me and then I have those days where I just never want to get out of bed. Luckily I have more great days now. But when I get out of bed I resemble an 80 year old woman.

So where is this going? I guess I wanted to tell you all why my running program failed. I made it to week two. And then it was horrible. My knees were on fire, my hips throbbed all night, and my ankles well that was just a nightmare. My joints were hot and red, and swollen. In eight years I have learned that when this happens it isn't good. Also, I must tell you that I proudly told my Rheumatologist about my newest adventure and he was far from impressed. He warned me this would probably not work...he didn't discourage me, but said he only has one patient that has the ability to run and her RA is very different than mine. RA varies from person to person. My RA has been pretty crazy at times. That is a different story. I will share it with you someday.

So there you have it I am not a runner. When Mr. Summerville, asked, during my 7th grade run, "what's your troubles bubbles," I should have said "someday when I am older I will have RA and running just won't be in the cards for me"! I am back to walking my three miles a day and am adding a few extra blocks a week. My RA still isn't back to normal, but I know it will settle down. It just takes time. If you don't have a cause to donate too please consider donating money to the Arthritis Foundation. The link is on this blog. My mother has Lupus (which is another autoimmune disease) so this disease is definately genetic in my book and most of the doctor's.

I hope I haven't bored you to death. I just wanted to let you know. Some of you were so supportive and I must say I am embarrassed that I failed. My good friend Jinny, sent me an email saying how I inspired her. Wow...that felt amazing, but on day five of my jogging journey my joints were already flaring. So I knew this post would be coming soon.

It is very hot in Houston...I mean HOT! We celebrated Greg's 33rd Birthday on Monday! I am five months older than him so it is nice when his Birthday finally rolls around!

We are enjoying a trip in Ft. Worth while Greg attends some meetings for work. We have been able to see some of our friends. Which is always fun!

I hope this finds you all doing well! I will post some pictures soon!

Trying something new....

2008-05-26T14:20:00.005-05:00

Ok, well I was told I no longer can practice Bikram Yoga. Long story, it is perfectly safe, and I encourage everyone to do it, but a lot is going on and my doctor doesn't want me in the heat. So, it has been about two months since I did my last Triangle Pose (which by the way was my LEAST favorite pose, but it did get my heart pumping) and I am going through withdraw.

I have this friend, Laura, who I met at Bikram and she is a health/fitness maniac! Really...she amazes me. I told her my walking just wasn't giving me the "high" that Bikram gave me. She said "well how about running?" Running...are you serious? I could never do that! Well, today I had my first session with Greg. I signed up for a nine week course at www.active.com called "Couch to 5K". In nine weeks I will be ready to run my first 5K.

Now I must tell you the last time I "ran". I was in the 7th grade, in my favorite teacher's class, Mr. Summerville. He was getting old back then...and he ran every single day...which amazed me back then and still does now. I don't know why, but he was also the coach for some sport, maybe Track? Long story, but my parents believed you tried out for EVERY sport...track, now that was just crazy! And my school was small so of course, everyone made the team. Just my luck! Our first day was a running day and I could not do the run and he said "come on bubbles you can do it". He always said "what's your trouble bubbles". Can you tell I really liked him? Well, I was second from DEAD last on that first run. I did make it, but I was almost last. So for me to even attempt this is amazing, crazy, scary, and super invigorating!

Laura, Greg and I are all going to run a 5K in August. Laura, is training for "Couch to half Marathon", but she said she would do it with me. It will be the hottest month in Texas, but I can do it! If I have learned anything in the last year it is this...I truly can achieve anything if I want it bad enough and nothing that is worth doing is easy. I'll keep you posted on this journey!

No news as far as the adoption. I would say adoption from China is at a standstill. Others may not agree, but when you are told it could easily be three more years, well to me, that means they aren't getting anywhere. It is still a very SORE subject.

Greg and I are looking forward to going to our hometown in June to see our good friend, Steve, and our Grandparents. It will be a short trip, but a very needed one. I hope you all are doing well. Check back for my progress on my new adventure!

Adalynn Brooke is here!

2008-04-24T08:12:00.004-05:00

Saturday, April 19, at 4:03 p.m. Adalynn Brooke was born. She weighed 7.8 pounds and was 20 inches long. She is just as sweet as Summer and Lilly! Greg and I are excited to be Uncle Gregie and Auntie Alicia again! Please keep Heather and her girls in your prayers!

More pictures of Kansas games!

2008-04-15T09:59:00.001-05:00

We had such a fun time! My sister and her husband got FREE tickets to the games. Lucky dogs. Anyway my sister was quite the trooper! She is VERY pregnant..due any day and she went. Her doctor said "you must really like basketball"! haha!

Have a great Tax Day!

Love,

Alicia

Kansas...National Champions! Go Kansas!

2008-04-09T07:04:00.005-05:00

Greg and I had a wonderful time cheering our Jayhawks to a National Championship! We had such a fun time being at the games and cheering with the thousands of Kansas fans!

The Kansas vs. North Carolina game was a real treat! To those out there that thought the game was boring...well, you must not be a Kansas fan. That game was awesome. Our boys wiped the floor clean with the Tar Heels. We had many NC fans sitting by us, and let me tell you they were very quiet! Sweet Victory!

Going into the game on Monday I assumed Memphis wouldn't be a problem. Oh boy, was I wrong! I guess I should have known by the hurting they put on UCLA, but I was naive. When there was two minutes left and we were down by nine I thought "this is it, we are going to lose this game". Then Memphis didn't make their free throws and suddenly there was a chance.
Mario Chalmers....YOU ROCK!!! When he made the three pointer to tie up the game and we went into overtime I really knew then that the Jayhawks would win the title of National Champions!

We had such an amazing time! Greg has wanted to go to the Final Four since he was a child. I have to say there is no one I would rather have been at the games with than my husband Greg. Thank you Greg for such a wonderful time. You will always be my favorite Jayhawk, even though Mario is pretty high on the list!

Rock Chalk Jayhawk! K!! U!!

More pictures to come...Alicia

Final 4 here we come! Rock Chalk Jayhawk!!!

2008-03-31T10:04:00.006-06:00

Christmas morning is about here! Greg can hardly contain himself! The Jayhawks are playing UNC on Saturday and WE ARE GOING!! We are so excited! Greg just bought our tickets to all the games!

The game on Sunday was such a nail biter! We yelled, cursed, screamed, and cheered, and low and behold our boys did it!! It will be so wonderful if we can beat ole' Roy in San Antonio! It will be awesome if we win the Championship! We will cheer extra loud for all our friends!

Rock Chalk Jayhawk...Go KU!!!

March is already here!

2008-03-13T15:35:00.010-06:00

I can't believe it is already the middle of March! We had a fun February... we hope you did too!

I celebrated my 33 Birthday on Feb. 7. I can't believe I am already 33...ouch! Greg did a great job this year surprising me with some art I had wanted and then he took me to a delicious supper at a Japanese steak house! Yum!!

February 16, we celebrated Lilly's 2nd Birthday! We are so happy we live close so we could go to her big party! We stayed for two days so that was fun!

While we were in San Antonio we were able to see our dear friends Sobha and Dhanya. It was just wonderful to see them! We were neighbors with Sobha and Dhanya at KU. They are in the pictures with Greg and I.

Then we had Valentine's Day. Again, Greg did awesome. He got me two charms for my Pandora bracelet and a Pandora ring. We weren't supposed to get each other anything. So, I did what we had agreed to do, and looked silly when he got me such a nice gift.

I've been battling some ear issues, so I wasn't able to do as much Yoga as I like to do. I did manage to lose another four pounds. Nothing earth shattering, but at least it is gone!

My parents will be here next Thursday for Easter weekend! I am hoping my dad will paint our bedroom. We will see though, as it is a short trip for them. We will all go to San Antonio on Sunday to have Easter with my sister and her family.

Well, on a final note, this Sunday is Selection Sunday! Yahoo! We are actually hoping KU gets a #2 seed so that they will be in the South region...which plays in Houston! Obviously, if they make it to the Final 4, we will go scout tickets in San Antonio. We are very hopeful this is the year for our Jayhawks! Cheer loud!

Rock Chalk Jayhawk! Go KU!!!

Love,

Alicia

Happy 2008

2008-01-28T09:19:00.001-06:00

I hope this finds everyone having a wonderful 2008! January is flying by so I thought I would update you on the happenings in our household.

Our adoption continues to drag along and I must admit we are looking at other options. It has been a heartbreaking process and I am afraid I don't have what it takes to keep holding out. We are being told our wait could reach 2011 before we bring our daughter home. For those of you out there who have wanted a child you know that 2011 seems like FOREVER!!! I am struggling big time and I ask that you pray for me. Greg is busy with work so he has to put his thoughts into other things. As for me, well all I think about is "I still don't have a child". I will continue to keep you in the loop...just know right now it is a touchy subject.

Over MLK weekend, my sister and her girls, and I made a quick road trip to Missouri to surprise my mom for her 57th Birthday! I think she was surprised and thrilled to see us! My nieces did wonderful on the 11 hour car trip! They are awesome travelers! They make their Auntie so proud!

Our dear friends Carrie and Brian returned January 3rd from China with their precious Gracie! She is adorable and is just amazing! We spent this past Saturday evening with them. It was so wonderful to see them as a family of three!

I am still doing my Bikram Yoga and I am still loving it! I am improving on my practice every week. It is the most challenging exercise I have ever done. People think Yoga is a bunch of meditation, with candles and soft music...well not Bikram! Greg has promised that he will go one time with me when I reach my goal weight. I hope I reach it by May! I am still holding at 55 pounds. I guess I have hit a plateau and need to turn it up a bit. Hopefully next time I write I will be at 60 pounds!!

We are going to my sister's house next weekend for the Superbowl. We have really enjoyed living closer to them. I love that my nieces know who their Auntie is. Lilly will be two in Feb. and she calls Auntie "TT". We assume she can't say Auntie. Too cute! Lilly also loves Riley. I think he is her best friend. She loves to sit in his kennel with him with the door shut. I know it sounds crazy but if you can't find Lilly, well you know she is in the kennel! It irritates my clean freak sister so much! She really enjoys getting in it when she is all clean! Children are so fun!

I hope this finds you all doing well. Thanks for checking in on us. Take care.

Love,

Alicia

Merry Christmas...a little late!

2007-12-28T07:20:00.000-06:00

Hello Family and Friends,

I am sorry I am late posting this. I guess the season got away from me! I did get my cards out on time. I received several comments about my Christmas letter. The main one being that I am/was a Bah Hum Bug this year. Maybe I am/was just a little. There didn't seem to be a lot of good news this year. After rethinking about the year, I noticed I did have quite a full year!

In March my friend Lori came from North Dakota to visit for a weekend. She had never been to Texas and was not so in love with it. We did have a great time visiting the Fiesta store in Galveston, visiting Old Town Spring, and just catching up!

In April, my sister and I planned a 60th Surprise Birthday party for my dad. We really surprised him as he thought we just showed up for his Birthday. We had a about thirty people come to his party. We had several show up from Kansas, so that was great to have them! It was fantastic to see the surprise on my dad's face!

Then in May, my dear friend Elizabeth came to Houston for a scrapbooking weekend! Let me tell you, that is all we did! We did tons of scrapbooking and lots of chatting! It was wonderful to see her again!

Heather and the girls came June and July for a week of swimming in the pool. It was fun to watch Heather chase Lilly around the pool. Summer learned to swim and even learned to dive! Her Auntie was quite proud of her. She is only 5 years old!!

All of us girls also took a road trip in June to the lake. It was fun! Then in August Greg was able to take a week off and we went to the lake again! I guess we really love going to Table Rock Lake!!!

In September, we went to Fort Hood to see our wonderful friends Bill and Suzanne. We were named Ryan, Ben and Sarah's God Parents. What an honor! Suzanne and I have been friends since our time at Ft. Rucker together. Which was over ten years ago! It was great seeing them and catching up. Bill is an Apache pilot and left for Iraq in October. Please keep them in your prayers.

I went to San Antonio many times this year. My favorite visit had to be Halloween! I was able to see the girls for the big night and go out trick or treating with them. Summer was Jasmine and Lilly was a grape! They were very cute! We also found out that we are going to be an Auntie and Uncle Gregie again! My sister is pregnant with her third baby girl! She is due in May! Please keep her and the new baby in your prayers.

We have gone many times to the Gingerman, a local pub here with our adoption friends Carrie and Brian. We also have visited Chinatown several times. Not a place I am in love with...the food that is!!

Overall, it was a good year. It has been wonderful being back in a warmer area.

Greg and I had a different Christmas this year. I visited my sister and parents in San Antonio the weekend before Christmas. Then I came home to be with Greg for Christmas Eve and Day. It was different just him and I, but we made the best of it since he had to work. We spent Christmas evening at the neighbors having yummy enchiladas.

For those checking my site to see how much weight I've lost........drum roll please..........55 pounds!!!

Wishing you all a wonderful 2008!!!

Love,

Alicia

Riley is 4 today

2007-12-17T10:33:00.000-06:00

Just wanted you all to know that our first child Riley is celebrating his fourth Birthday today! He had a Birthday bath, followed by two donut holes! He is one happy Bully!

We Passed!

2007-12-05T20:13:00.001-06:00

I am late posting this as we had computer problems. Our news is great! We passed review! We are officially in the Matching Room!! Now, that still means we have a long wait ahead of us but we are cleared through China to adopt. This is a huge relief for Greg and I. I will post more later.

Oh and if you would please send me your email address. Our computer crashed so a lot of people I lost email addresses for. Thanks!

Love,

Alicia

Happy Thanksgiving...Go Kansas!

2007-11-18T12:44:00.000-06:00

Happy Thanksgiving to all our friends and family! There is nothing new to report on our adoption this month. We are still in review. We have not heard anything so I am hopeful we won't! We are headed to my parents Tuesday for a week! We are so excited for Greg to have some time off. He definitely deserves it!

Rock Chalk Jayhawk! We are having a blast watching the football season this year. Every year Greg would say "Next year will be our year". Well he finally got his "next year". We went to College Station and watched KU beat A&M! We had a great time with our friend Chris. We know he hated to see his Aggies lose to us! Keep cheering on the Jayhawks! Don't forget in all the excitement that Basketball season has already started. We are 3-0!

Have a great Thanksgiving!

Love,

Alicia

In Review

2007-10-15T10:05:00.000-05:00

October is flying by so I thought I would let you all know I am doing much better this month. Our paperwork is officially being reviewed this month by the CCAA. This basically means we will be one step closer to holding our baby girl. The wait is still super long, but getting through this will be a huge relief! This is the time China could disqualify us because of my Rheumatoid Arthritis. So, please pray this does not happen. I have a wonderful letter from my Rheumatologist so I don't think this will happen, but lets be honest it is a foreign country and they can do whatever they like.

I am happy to report that I have lost 45 pounds! Yeah for me! I have enjoyed trying new things and have really taken a liking to Yoga. I have a friend, Dinah, who is certified, so she comes over twice a week for my own personal session. My RA is doing so much better with my healthier living too. It is quite amazing! I have a lot more to lose, but slowly but surely I know I will get there.

I am flying to my parents tomorrow and will be there until Sunday! I have the best hubby for letting me do this. He has been working like crazy and yet he still is letting me fly home for a little time with my parents. Thank you Gregie! You are the best!

I hope this finds you all having a great Fall. It is pretty warm here still. I am so looking forward to the cooler weather of Missouri and the fall leaves!
Love,

Alicia

One Year....

2007-09-22T08:45:00.000-05:00

This has been a very emotional month for me. Today is our One Year Anniversary for our Log in Date with China. We have been “pregnant” for one year. I believed we would have Mari in our arms by Christmas of this year. However, that will not be happening. I don’t mean to be a downer but, sometimes it is hard not to be. I don’t understand why we can’t be blessed with a child. I don’t understand how two high school sweethearts, who are best friends, financially stable, and have so much love to offer can’t become parents. Having RA hurts me physically, but no amount of physical pain can compare to the pain my heart has by not being able to share my days with a little one.

Hopefully next month we will have better news. I guess you could say I am pretty negative about our adoption right now. I hope this finds you all doing well.

Love,

Alicia

Summertime

2007-08-22T17:33:00.000-05:00

Click to play | Make your own Smilebox

August is almost over so I thought I should update our blog. We went to my parents the first week of August. We spent eight days on Table Rock Lake. I absolutely love that place. When I came back to Houston I realized I really want to live on a lake away from all the hustle and bustle! We had a fun time boating, swimming, and visiting with my family.

Greg started a new position too in August. He now is now working days doing a slightly different job than before. For all you who know me you know I don't really understand what he does. It has been different having him gone in the days. He is putting in long days.

My weight loss continues to creep down. I am losing at a snails pace, but at least I am losing!

Our adoption is moving at a snails pace too. Nothing new to report. Our new friends Brian and Carrie should be getting their referral in October. Hopefully they will ring in the New Year with their baby! We have really enjoyed doing things with them.

I am adding some pictures this time. I hope you enjoy seeing pictures of my nieces because they are all I take pictures of!!! Summer Paige will be starting school on Monday. I can't believe she is old enough to be going to school!

I hope this finds you all doing well.

Love,

Alicia

I Would Die For That

2007-07-25T11:37:00.001-05:00

This song says exactly how I feel. Make sure you have a tissue.

Lucky 13!

2007-07-09T09:21:00.000-05:00

Thirteen years ago today I married my best friend. Greg and I were just 19 years old back in 1994. We were not sure of much except for that we were in love. Today we celebrate our anniversary. I love Greg more today than I ever dreamed possible. He has made my life fun, exciting, and filled with love. I want Greg to know and the world to know that I love my high school sweet heart more than anything. I would not change a thing about our lives.

People often ask me if I had it to do over again would we have waited to have children. I know I would never want to take away the time that I have had with just us two. We have had some wonderful times. We have such fun stories to someday share with our daughter.

Greg, thank you for being you. Thank you for always taking care of me. Thank you for encouraging me to be the best that I can be at whatever I chose. You are the most caring, compassionate, and generous person I will ever know. I love you more than I can ever show you. Thank you for choosing me to be your wife.

Love, Alicia

Will things speed Up?

2007-06-30T11:19:00.000-05:00

Everyday Greg and I read a website called China Adopt Talk. In the adoption community she is known as Rumor Queen. It has been a nice place for us to visit with others who are in the same boat as we are. I thought she did an excellent job explaining why things might have slowed down and if we can expect to see things speed up again.

Will things speed Up?

I don’t think I’m covering any new ground with this post. But I’ve seen people trying to work through some of the various theories out there and I figured we might as well put them all in one place.
Before we talk about what would have to happen in order for things to speed up, we must talk about why things slowed down. There are a variety of theories:

1. There are no longer that many NSN orphans in China.
2. There are plenty of orphans, but problems getting them made paper ready.
3. The CCAA has a yearly ceiling that they cannot go over, and that ceiling was lowered last year and then lowered again this year. The ceiling also includes SN children, so the more SN adoptions that happen the less NSN matches can be made.
4. The Chinese government wants to make the world think there is no orphan problem as we lead up to the Olympics. So they empty the orphanages out into foster care and say there are no more orphans. The long wait becomes proof that they have solved their orphan problem, since this proves there aren’t enough babies to adopt out.

Now, let me go through each of these.

1. There are no longer that many NSN orphans in China.

If this is the case then there can not be a speed up. If there are truly no more abandonments, or if domestic adoption has actually taken hold and the babies who are abandoned are being adopted, then IA is no longer needed in China.

2. There are plenty of orphans, but problems getting them made paper ready.

We are hearing word that all SWI’s can now send paperwork in. At least one agency has began working with an orphanage they are aware of that is full of babies that are not being made paper ready to help them prepare children’s paperwork for IA. If this is the reason then we might hope to see a slight speed up. I say slight because this problem would tell us that the orphanages previously sending paperwork are no longer capable of doing so, for whatever reason. So we would need to rely on orphanages not previously sending paperwork. So, this reason really isn’t that there are “plenty” of orphans, just that there are less than there used to be. If this one is true then I would expect to start seeing more babies in November.

3. The CCAA has a yearly ceiling that they cannot go over, and that ceiling was lowered last year and then lowered again this year. The ceiling also includes SN children, so the more SN adoptions that happen the less NSN matches can be made.

If this is true then we are stuck with what we have until someone tells the CCAA they can begin referring more NSN babies out than they’ve been allowed to do last year and this year. If this one is true then we also have some weird things that happen with attrition levels moving back and forth from NSN to SN, see the Attrition Logic Post for more information if you missed that entry.

4. The Chinese government wants to make the world think there is no orphan problem as we lead up to the Olympics. So they empty the orphanages out into foster care and say there are no more orphans. The long wait becomes proof that they have solved their orphan problem, since this proves there aren’t enough babies to adopt out.

This one gets more complicated. There are some who point out that if all they are interested in is the numbers that get reported then the last numbers that will be reported are this years numbers, in which case things might speed up starting with late November’s referrals, since those people will not complete their adoption until January of ‘08. If the State Department uses a different fiscal year then it could be even sooner than that. (Coincidentally, November is when we might expect to see a speed up from bringing in all of the SWI’s.)

However, if they want to be able to point to the actual wait as proof that there are no more orphans (and thus, no more abandonment problem) then we would not expect to see a change until after the Olympics.
And then there is the possibility that with the Olympics being China’s “Coming Out” Party, that things may never go back to the way they were. China will want to maintain the perception that they are now a First World Country and that they can “take care of their own”. Meaning they will want to keep up the illusion that there are no more abandonments and no more orphans.

So, back to our original question: Will things speed up?

I do not think that China just suddenly one month ran out of babies. They went from referring about a month every month to referring half months, and then went down from there. One would think that this would have been more gradual and not so sudden if it weren’t an artificially constructed “problem”.
I believe that some orphanages do have mostly SN babies and hardly any NSN babies. I believe that some areas of the country are more prosperous and that there truly are less orphans. A wonderful thing.
However, I am also aware of orphanages that are full of babies. And I’m aware of orphanages that have a small percentage of the babies now that they had years ago, but when families ask about how many babies are in foster care it brings the numbers back up to the same neighborhood they were in four or five years ago.
This means that I think there are babies available, and thus I believe a speed up is possible. I don’t believe it is probable, but I do believe it is possible.
If we are dealing with a quota, or with issues around the Olympics (and this could very well be that both of these are the case) then unless the theory is correct that they are only interested in published numbers, I don’t think we can hope to see a speed up anytime soon. If ever.

Where did June go?

2007-06-30T10:47:00.001-05:00

We have had a busy month. I just got back from my parents house where we enjoyed the lake. I wanted to go to Ft. Hood to see my friend Suzanne for the 4th of July. Things did not work out as Greg was working and felt left out. So I am staying home. We may go to a BBQ with our friends that we have met through our adoption if we don't get rained out.

I hired a Personal Trainer at 24 Hour Fitness. I have been doing fantastic...just had to brag a little! I am down 15 pounds in 38 days! Yahoo for me! We have been counting calories and it is really working. Greg is down seven pounds too! With his job it is hard for him to exercise. But he is doing great too. Since I am paying a trainer I never miss a workout!!

Last week my sister, nieces and I made a trip to our parents in Missouri. We were there four full days and had a fun time. Summer rode the tube and thought that was just the best thing! Of course we had to monitor our speed in RPM's because we were going so slow!!! We boated and played on the boat dock each day. My nieces did wonderful again on the trip there. I feel like we are asking a lot of them to make the trip so I could never say they did bad. We had bad road conditions so our 12 hour trip became 15 hours. As an adult you want to scream so you can imagine how a 15 month old reacts. The long trip was well worth it. Seeing my parents is always fun. I can't wait for them to be grandparents again.

We are nine months "Paper Pregnant". When we started the process we were told our wait would be 8-10 months. So we figured we would have a normal pregnancy. As we all know things have changed drastically. We are now praying that we will get our daughter in early 2009. It is very mind boggling to think we will be waiting that long. I would prefer to believe it could be that long rather than keep thinking that it won't be and then be more disappointed. We have looked into other countries but China seems to still be the right fit for us. We continue to ask for your prayers in bringing our Mari home.

We hope you all have a fun and safe 4th of July! Take care.

Love,

Alicia

New Eyes for Greg

2007-06-10T08:50:00.000-05:00

On Friday June 8 Greg got "New Eyes"! Greg had Lasik eye surgery. He is doing wonderful! On Saturday he read 20/20!!! It was truly amazing. Greg has worn glasses since he was five years old. As you can imagine he is quite excited and keeps saying to me "can you read what that says...because I sure can"! He has always wanted to have the Lasik eye surgery and this year for his 32 Birthday we bit the bullet and did it!

I hope this finds you all having a great June. It is quite steamy down here in Texas. My nieces will be here this afternoon! So we plan to do lots of swimming. Take care.

Love, Alicia

Meeting others in the same boat

2007-05-20T13:38:00.001-05:00

As many of you know I have had an extremely hard time making friends this time around in Texas. I have had many bad moments where I have cried my eyes out because none of my neighbors will even say hello to me. As many of you know Greg is about as solid as they come and then there is me. Well, Greg took pity on me and left a message on a China board asking if there was anyone in our area like us! You know the type: we live in a neighborhood full of children, we have a four bedroom house, we have a family car, and we stare in awe at others children. To our surprise, this nice lady Carrie emailed me and invited us to a Families with Children from China dinner. Of course, Greg and I jumped right in our car and went! We met some wonderful people and we are so excited to have met others like us! No one can understand our wait except for people who are waiting or have waited too. It was such a wonderful feeling to be able to chat about our wait and see the beautiful children that are now with their forever family. So after last night I feel renewed like I can make this journey and I can stay in Texas even if my neighbors think I am weird for not having children!

I hope this finds you all having a great weekend. Greg's schedule has changed so now on Sunday afternoons he works. BUT he is now off EVERY Friday and Saturday. No more work 12 off two. Have a great week.

Love, Alicia

Auntie!!!

2007-05-09T10:18:00.000-05:00

Last week my darling nieces Summer and Lilly came to stay with us from Sunday until Tuesday. My sister came on Tuesday and they all stayed until Friday. My sister, Heather, is an RN and since they are still new to San Antonio they do not have a babysitter. So for now I am the babysitter. I can't complain I am enjoying every moment with them. Greg and I are getting great practice being parents. Let me tell you, Auntie was very tired by Tuesday night. Summer is four and Lilly is 15 months. Summer is a typical four year old...she can do everything and knows everything. Lilly is a holy terror! She is into everything. Nothing is safe when Lilly is around. She loves Riley and will yell his name from every room of the house. It is so funny! We had a fun time. We went to the park, blew bubbles, had a play date with the neighbor, swam in the pool, and of course had hot dogs and macaroni and cheese.

I hope this finds you all having a great May. My friend Elizabeth will be here this Friday. I haven't seen her in almost two years so I am very excited. Have a great week.

Love, Alicia

April News

2007-04-24T21:49:00.000-05:00

April has been a busy month for me. My sister, Heather, and I put on a 60th Birthday party for my dad. We spent about five days in Shell Knob, MO with my parents. My nieces did so wonderful on the road trip! Summer, who is four, watched her movies the whole way there. Lilly, who is one, did amazingly well too. I was very impressed! Ten hours in a car is pretty hard for me and I'm 32..I can't imagine being four! The party for Dad was great! We really surprised him! It is hard to believe though when your dad turns 60! I just don't see him being that old!!

While we were in Missouri we convinced my parents to come to our house. So they were here from last Wed until Sunday. Dad did some painting for me. He is the best painter. It is too bad though he has to correct so many of the mistakes that the other owners made. I know he isn't happy about it! Greg was able to take sometime off while they were here. That was nice.

We all went to a Crawfish Festival. And of course, we tried Crawfish for the first time. Can't say I love it. I like it in sauces but I'm not too into it when you have to pull that head off and work so hard for a piece of meat no bigger than your pinkie! Plus mine kept having the yellow gunk in them and I did NOT like seeing or tasting that!!

There is no news about our adoption. I wish so badly there was but there isn't. The only news is that the wait continues to grow longer. I almost hate typing that. It is very difficult for my heart. Please continue to pray for our adoption and that God will place a baby in our arms as soon as possible.

I hope this finds you all doing well. Take care.

Love, Alicia

Happy Easter

2007-04-08T18:40:00.000-05:00

I hope the Easter Bunny was good to everyone! Greg and I had a pretty uneventful weekend here in Texas. It has been rainy and cold here this weekend. How quickly I have become wimpy back in the land of warmer weather!

My friend Lori came and visited last week! We had a great time, although I don't think she loved Texas as much as I do! It was wonderful having her here!

There is nothing new to report on our adoption. The wait continues to grow and it drives me crazy! There is not a thing we can do about it either. I think that is by far the hardest part. We just have to truly believe God's timing will be perfect for us. We look forward to the day when we can dress our baby up for her Easter picture, dye Easter eggs, hide Easter eggs, and of course see her smile when she realizes the Easter Bunny left her a basket full of candy!

Happy Easter!
Alicia

Sad Day

2007-03-25T16:27:00.000-06:00

I should have never posted that last post. All I can say is the Jayhawks had a great season! We enjoyed watching them play ball and we are proud of our team! It won't be long and October 15 will be here and it will all start again! Rock Chalk Jayhawk!

Alicia

Rock Chalk Jayhawk!

2007-03-24T14:55:00.000-06:00

This time of year is like a holiday at our house! Greg woke up on March 15 unable to sleep as he knew March Madness had finally begun! We are so excited that the Jayhawks will be playing in the Elite 8 today! This will also be the first game we will be able to watch on our big screen TV and not on our little computer monitor. This year Texas and Texas A&M played the same time we did. Being that we live in Texas showing Kansas play was not a priority! So Greg and I watched our Jayhawks play on a slightly delayed computer screen. As Greg kept saying, at least we were able to watch the game. So cheer loud and root the Jayhawks on to the Final Four!!!

Rock Chalk Jayhawk Go KU!!!

Sonogram

2007-03-22T07:13:00.000-06:00

We have been Paper Pregnant for six months! It is hard to believe it has already been that long. We wanted to share with you our sonogram. It brings us great joy to share this and hope you enjoy seeing it as much as we do!

What happens with our Dossier?

2007-03-12T14:05:00.000-06:00

Each week we get an update from our adoption agency, Christian World Adoption. This week Virginia explained the process that we are in right now. She also explained why the wait to get Mari is taking so long. Here is the information that we received. CWA has been excellent to work with. They are always very upfront and honest and the doors of communication are always open. We would recommend them! I hope you are enjoying reading about our journey!

CWA mails the dossiers to the China Center of Adoption Affairs (CCAA). When a dossier arrives at the CCAA, the worker enters the family's information into the CCAA computer system. The date on which this happens becomes the family's LOG-IN date. The CCAA receives hundreds of dossiers every week, so it may take 3-4 weeks for them to log-in a dossier after it is received. (CWA will let you know what your log-in date is.)

All of the dossiers with that log-in date are kept together in a group. The group of dossiers moves from department to department over a period of many months. First the dossiers are translated, then they are reviewed, and then they are moved to the matching room where they will wait until the CCAA is ready to make a referral.

The "referral" includes 2-3 photos of the child, medical information about the child, and a brief developmental report. Most of the information is in both Chinese and English. The CCAA makes referrals according to the log-in dates on the dossiers,taking them in chronological order. To date, they have made referrals for families with log-in dates through October 24, 2005. Back in the"good old days" the CCAA used to mail referrals covering the log-in dates for an entire month at a time. Now they are only able to send referrals covering periods of one or two weeks.

So why is the process so slow? The process is exceptionally slow right now because adoption from China became SO popular that the CCAA received many, many more dossiers than they have children available. They are moving as quickly as they can to get through the backlog, but they have THOUSANDS of dossiers waiting and there are only so many children in the international adoption program. So we need to expect that the process will continue to be very slow for several more months. It is most likely that the wait will get worse before it gets better.

I hope this finds you all having a great Monday. We went to San Antonio over the weekend and went to the Riverwalk. It was great seeing my sister and nieces! Greg's vacation ends tomorrow. What a bummer. It was so nice having him home even though we missed our cruise! Love, Alicia

Different Trips to the Same Place

2007-03-07T17:09:00.000-06:00

We received this at an adoption seminar and it just seemed so perfect. I wanted to share it with everyone.

Different Trips to the Same Place

Deciding to have a baby is like planning a trip to Australia. You’ve heard it’s a wonderful place. You’ve read many guidebooks and feel certain you’re ready to go. Everyone you know has traveled there by plane. They say it can be a turbulent flight with occasional rough landings, but you can look forward to being pampered on the trip.

So you go to the airport and ask the ticket agent for a ticket to Australia. All around you, excited people are boarding planes for Australia. It seems there is no seat for you; you’ll have to wait for the next flight. Impatient, but anticipating a wonderful trip, you wait-and wait- and wait.

Flights to Australia continue to come and go. People say silly things like, “Relax. You’ll get on a flight soon.” Other people actually get on a plane and then cancel their trip, to which you cry, “It’s not fair”.

After a long time the ticket agent tells you, “I’m sorry, we’re not going to be able to get you on a plane to Australia. Perhaps you should think about going by boat.”

“By Boat!” you say, “Going by boat will take a very long time and costs a great deal of money. I really had my heart set on going by plane.” So you go home and think about not going to Australia at all. You wonder if Australia will be as beautiful if you approach it by sea rather than air. But you have long dreamed of this wonderful place, and finally you decide to travel by boat.

It is a long trip, many months over many rough seas. No one pampers you. You wonder if you will ever see Australia. Meanwhile, your friends have flown back and forth to Australia two or three times, marveling about each trip.

Then one glorious day, the boat docks in Australia. It is more exquisite that you ever imagined, and the beauty is magnified by your long days at sea. You have made many wonderful friends during your voyage, and you find yourself comparing stories with others who also traveled by sea rather than by air.

People continue to fly to Australia as often as they like, but you are able to travel only once, perhaps twice. Some say things like, “Oh be glad you didn’t fly. My flight was horrible, traveling by sea is so easy.”

You will always wonder what it would have been like to fly to Australia. Still, you know God blessed you with a special appreciation of Australia, and the beauty of Australia is not in the way you get there, but in the place itself.

Author unknown

No Cruise for you!

2007-03-05T14:13:00.000-06:00

As many of you have known Greg and I were to take our first Cruise today! We were to leave out of Galveston for a five day cruise. Well Thursday night the flu came to our house and hit me hard. Needless to say the trip had to be canceled and we are at home rather than boarding our beautiful ship. It seems we just don't have much luck here lately. Greg had too much vacation and was at a use it or lose it point so now we will be staring at each other for a week! Greg has been a real trooper though, catering to my every need. Not sure I have ever told you all this but I truly do have the best husband! Please pray for a speedy recovery!

Alicia

Riley

2007-02-25T14:38:00.000-06:00

Riley wanted to say hello! He is enjoying Texas and loves sleeping outside in the sun. He is getting braver and walking around the hot tub. One night he slipped and got his foot wet! He did not like that! We had to up his thyroid medicine and now he is back to his old self! He likes sleeping on the landing with his feet dangling off the stair. Isn't he just precious!!!

No news to report about our adoption. Greg and I are doing well and looking forward to March Madness! Go Kansas!! Love, Alicia

Happy Chinese New Year!

2007-02-16T15:43:00.000-06:00

Happy Chinese New Year! 2007 is the year of the Pig. Feburary 18, 2007 marks the first day of the New Year in China. If you were born in 1923, 1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983 or 1995 - you were born under the sign of the pig also. Legend has it that in ancient times, Budda asked all the animals to meet him on Chinese New Year. Twelve came, and Buddha named a year after each one. He said that the people born in each animal's year would have some of that animal's personality. Those born in pig years tend to have excellent manners, make and keep friends, work very hard, and appreciate luxury. They are very loving and make loyal partners.

The Chinese New Year is the most celebrated holiday in China. It is also the longest holiday lasting for 15 days. Red is the color of choice as it is believed to signify fire. Fire is believed to ward off evil spirits. People wear and decorate with red. Children receive "lucky money" in red envelopes. Fireworks are a big hit also. It is believed that the loud popping sounds scare off evil spirits also. Families come together to eat, drink, and be merry! Sounds familiar!

On the 15th day of the New Year is the lantern festival. In many areas the highlight of the lantern festival is the dragon dance. The dragon—which might stretch a hundred feet long—is typically made of silk, paper, and bamboo. Traditionally the dragon is held by young men who dance as they guide the colorful beast through the streets.

Last night Greg and I celebrated the New Year by eating at Pei Wei. If we get our referral in early spring 2008 then Mari will be born the year of the Pig! What a wonderful year 2007 will be! Have a great weekend.

Happy Chinese New Year!

Timeline for our Adoption

2007-02-12T19:06:00.000-06:00

September 23, 2005 - Signed with Christian World Adoption
September 30, 2005 - Greg sends Alicia a list of names he likes...our baby girl gets her name, Mari Olivia
October 5, 2005 - Contacted Catholic Charities about our Homestudy
October 12, 2005 - Ordered Birth Certificates and Marriage Certificate
October 13, 2005 - Elizabeth is our witness to send our initial documents to CWA
October 18, 2005 - Mailed application and check to CWA
October 20, 2005 - Received access to China iplanner
October 25, 2005 - Talked with Virginia our case manager at CWA
December 10, 2005 - Have fingerprints taken at local police station in North Dakota
January 25, 2006 - Find out Greg's fingerprints were good but Alicia's were not readable...just my luck!
February 3, 2006 - Alicia has fingerprints redone
February 7, 2006 - Alicia turns 31!
February 16, 2006 - A new niece arrives...Lilly Kate is born!
February 23, 2006 - Fingerprints are back and they are good! We can begin our homestudy!
March 6, 2006 - 1st meeting with Amy our social worker for our homestudy
March 30, 2006 - 2nd meeting with Amy
April 3, 2006 - Go home to meet Lilly
May 19, 2006 - 3rd and final homestudy visit, this time at our house
June 16, 2006 - Greg turns 31! Happy Birthday!
June 19, 2006 - Multicultural Families training in Fargo, ND required for homestudy
June 20, 2006 - Alicia has Physical and lab work
June 27, 2006 - Had passport photo taken and applied for passport...Happy Birthday Heather!
June 21, 2006 - Mailed our I-600 to USCIS (this form is asking for permission to adopt a foreign born child)
June 28, 2006 - Received 1-600 back with our FBI clearance appointment date
July 3, 2006 - Greg has physical and lab work
July 9, 2006 - We celebrate our 12 year Anniversary!
July 11, 2006 - Went to Fargo to have FBI fingerprints done
July 17, 2006 - Our Homestudy is finalized
August 4-10, 2006 - Went on vacation to see Alicia's parents
August 12, 2006 - Waiting in the mail was our much anticipated I-171H today! (This form is from the Department of Homeland Security it gives us permission to adopt a foreign born child) Also in the mail are our passports.
August 14, 2006 - We had our documents Authenticated in Bismarck, ND by the Secretary of State
August 17, 2006 - Fedex'd our dossier to a courier in Washington D. C. she will take them to the United States Department of State and then to the Chinese Consulate
August 24, 2006 - FedEx'd our Dossier to CWA!!! All our paperwork is done...it took forever it seems!
August 25, 2006 - Virginia received our Dossier
August 31, 2006 - Dossier to China (DTC)
September 22, 2006 - We have a LID (this is the date that we entered into China's system. All referrals are based on this date!) We are officially "Paper Pregnant"!
September 29, 2006 - Greg received a promotion...we will be moving to Houston, TX!!
October 22, 2006 - Received a beautiful dress for Mari from CWA
November 1, 2006 - Greg leaves for Houston, TX
November 12, 2006 - Alicia leaves Minot, ND for Houston, TX
December 4, 2006 - Sold our home in North Dakota
December 8, 2006 - Bought our new home in Texas!
December 12, 2006 - Move into our new home...there is no place like home!

Welcome

2007-02-11T11:50:00.000-06:00

Welcome to our blog. Greg bought a new XBox 360 this weekend so I set out to create this blog. Please bear with me as I have never done something like this before! I went to find "Blogging for Dummies" but I couldn't find it. I will continue searching!

The blog will mainly have information about our journey to Mari. We wanted to give all our friends and family a chance to follow us to parenthood. I often get bored though so I can see me throwing in tidbits about life in Texas! Which by the way has been great!

The wait for Mari continues. Our case worker tells us maybe sometime next Spring. We will have our Homestudy repeated in the fall as your homestudy has to be from the current state you live in.

I turned 32 this week and let me tell you that was not easy since I am still NOT a MOMMIE!!! I went to our park with my niece Summer and saw all the mommies with their double strollers and I wanted to gag! Is that terrible of me or what! I know God has a plan for us but somedays it is hard to remember that!