Kolb Family

Family Photos 2009

2009-12-08T10:21:00.000-08:00

Way overdue, but feel the need to document this here...

2009-09-28T12:02:00.000-07:00

The whole world already knows this as of now, but I wanted to put it on here too....

WE ARE HAVING A GIRL!!!! :) Miss Elena Joy, due on February 1st, 2010.

can't wait to see her sweet face!

From a mother's heart...

2009-05-10T19:55:00.000-07:00

To my little boy...
You won't be little forever, so I'll hold you in my arms while I can.
I'll snuggle with you while you still think Mommy is the greatest person alive.
I'll get as many sloppy kisses from you as I can while you still willingly give them.
I'll rejoice every time you grab my leg and beg me not to leave the room...I know it won't always be that way.

Someday, you'll want to hang out with your friends more than Mom. You'll be busy with school and sports and homework and all the things that encompass growing up. But know that I will be treasuring each moment in my heart. I'll keep track of these years as they roll too quickly by and hang little mementos and memories on the walls of my heart to remind me just how blessed I am.

Not that I really need to be reminded. Everytime I look in your big blue eyes I am bombarded with the fact that God blessed me with you out of the blue. In the midst of a season of mourning in my life, He gave me you! My little blonde haired, blue eyed miracle.

I will never forget what your first little kicks inside me felt like, or the joy I knew when the doctors told us we were having a boy! Your name was chosen with care and though I may speak it in frustration sometimes, please know that you are loved beyond measure. I would NEVER trade any "hard" day for a day without you...

you are my precious gift, my miracle kid, my reflection of God's grace. I pray that He will grow you into a strong man of God who is a witness of immeasurable proportion. I can't wait for the day I hear you say that Jesus lives in your heart...

Thanks for making me the most proud Mommy ever. I know that my name won't always be "Mommy" and that someday it will morph into just Mom... but somewhere in the corners of my heart will always be the echo of that tiny voice I now hear say "mama".

I treasure you, my son, and hope you know just how much my life has been changed because of you and how I wouldn't change it for the world.

See the pic... enough said. :)

2009-04-13T20:49:00.000-07:00

Coming down the homestretch!

2009-04-07T18:32:00.001-07:00

Nathan has been away longer than I'd like to add up right now, and I'm so happy that he's coming home sooooon! :) As of right now, (if weather holds, and training doesn't get disrupted for anything else), he will be back most likely on April 17th, at the latest the 18th!

I can't tell you how happy it makes me to know that he'll be home and we can start settling into normalcy again. (whatever that means! haha) The biggest prayer request is that he'll be able to get a job. He doesn't have a civilian job to come home to, and we'll be relegated to living off savings if we can't get something lined up quickly. God has never let us go hungry and the bills have always been paid, so I KNOW that something will work out. If you read this, please pray with us that we will be patient as we wait for God's perfect timing!

My hilarious boy!

2009-03-12T08:42:00.000-07:00

I just looooove his belly laugh!

Single parenting is hard...

2009-02-11T06:49:00.000-08:00

I give total props to all those single parents out there. My stint as a "single" parent these last few months has been one of the most exhausting experiences of my life. It is so incredibly draining to fulfill the role of both Mommy and Daddy for a child. I KNOW that Christian can feel the absence of his Daddy, and I cannot WAIT for Nathan to get home! I've learned a few things about myself and this parenting thing through this process:

1. I took for granted the moment when Nathan would walk through the door after work each day. He didn't even have to DO anything, but there was such a sense of relief (HA!) when I knew there was another parent to help take the reigns if needed. :)

2. There is NO DOUBT in my mind the role of a father in the life of a child, especially that of a little boy. Christian does much better all around when Nathan is home. Even at 14 months, he knows when the family isn't complete.

3. I have a harder time sleeping at night when Nathan isn't here. I don't know why... I mean, I have the WHOLE bed to myself. :) I think somewhere in the back of my mind I must feel like I can't sleep deeply for fear that I won't hear Christian if he needs me. The irony to this point is that Nathan sleeps like a rock when he is here and most nights doesn't hear Christian AT ALL. :)

4. It is seventeen times harder to make it to church by myself. I either have to shower the night before or not shower at all. And Christian HATES the nursery, so it's a bazillion trips back and forth to calm a screaming baby. Not much from the sermon gets a chance to get through many times.

5. The longer Nathan is away, the more attached Christian becomes to me--quite literally. There is a small fear in my mind that this will continue after Nathan gets back... but I'm hoping that's not the case.

Suffice it to say, this has been a good learning experience for all! :) I am so ready, though, to have the complete family back together. I truly believe that God did not design in his perfect plan for us to "go it alone". I will never condemn anyone who is walking the single parent life---in fact, I commend you many times over. But, I understand the importance even more now of the bond that God designed between husband and wife and "mom and dad".

A MESSAGE FROM CHRISTIAN

2009-02-03T16:31:00.000-08:00

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2008-12-08T20:03:00.000-08:00

Here's a few shots from a recent photo shoot my sister in law took recently! She's amazing! Check out her site: www.rlynnphotos.com

Overwhelmed

2008-11-18T17:40:00.000-08:00

I was struck today by the fact that I am very blessed, and it overwhelms me. I have had a few "harried" moments in this past week since Nathan left for basic. Nothing too over the top, but things that definitely make you want to get frustrated at the moment:
1. I fell down the stairs while holding Christian (don't worry we were both okay)
2. Christian has had two VERY fussy days, and I can't take him outside cause it's soooo cold out and he was getting over a cold last week and it's been cold and wet.
3. It is a bit unnerving to be paying bills still with the knowledge that we haven't had a paycheck come in for a month or so.
4. I've been exhausted the past few days for no apparent reason.
5. I'm trying to pack for three people with the knowledge that I will gone for a month.

But you know what stopped me in my tracks tonight? I have a friend online who just posted about one of her twin daughters choking on something a few weeks ago and going into a state of unconsciousness and not breathing for quite some time before medics were able to revive her. This little girl Cici is only 11 1/2 months old and on all kinds of feeding machines and in an intensive rehabilitation unit at their local hospital. She just came off the ventilator over the weekend. Jenny (the mom) was talking about going back to her home today for the first time since the accidenct 2 1/2 weeks ago. She has a four year old and Cici's twin Penny at home. She said that the house felt different when she walked in and that it would always be different, even when Cici came home, because doctors are pretty sure she won't ever fully rehabilitate.

I CANNOT even imagine what must be going through their minds and the pain of her heart and emotions. I cried just reading the post. I so easily stress over so many things, especially when it comes to Christian not cooperating or being in that stage of recognizing his independence and melting down when he doesn't get his own way.

But how blessed I am to have a child how is whole and healthy and vibrant...even when his little sin nature begins to rear it's ugly head! This was especially poignant in light of my two miscarriages as well. I acutely feel the loss of both those babies, but cannot imagine the fear that accompanies the possibility of losing a child that you have had the privilege of holding and rocking to sleep and watching milestones happen.

Cici now has to relearn many of her milestones...some she may never recover. How precious is each milestone that Christian accomplishes! I will not take that for granted. So here's my creed:

1. Live each day to the fullest because every moment God grants is a gift.

2. Love with my whole heart because I don't know when my last moment with my loved ones may be.

3. Breathe in the promises of my Savior because I refuse to give ground to the devil.

4. Abandon the temptation to live for myself.

5. Embrace the gift of serving those around me.

6. Walk daily with my God, because He's the One who holds it all anyway!

A little this and that...

2008-11-16T09:09:00.001-08:00

Visiting Cabellas in PA

This ride is soooooooooo fun!

I think he may have had a little too much. :)

Just performing his civic duty.

Said Goodbye to my Soldier...

2008-11-11T19:56:00.000-08:00

Monday morning at 0900 I dropped Nathan off at the Lynchburg Armory to begin his trek to Basic Training and AIT for 4 months. He will be doing processing and some other things at Fort Lee in Petersburg for the next few days and then will be flown into Georgia for his time at Fort Benning.

The good news is, he gets what is called an "exodus" at Christmastime for two weeks...and he'll be home on Christian's FIRST BIRTHDAY! :) Let me tell you, I'm already counting down the days.It seems quite timely that Nathan is leaving the day before Veterans' Day. I am acutely aware this year of the many men and women who have sacrificed their time and sometimes their lives to protect the freedom that we enjoy in this country. I AM SO THANKFUL FOR THEM!

I was an Air Force "brat" while growing up so I am not totally unaware of the feelings associated with being personally involved in the military. But I must tell you, that this separation is one of the hardest and yet best experiences that I have had. I have never been more proud as a wife and an American citizen.I hope that we as Americans can relish the freedom that we enjoy and truly view it through thankful eyes.

We can have elections (whether we agree with the outcomes or not) because of our soldiers. We have free speech to express our beliefs (like a free network like facebook) because of soldiers. We have the ability to attend church and worship freely because of our soldiers. We have phenomenal educational resources because of our soldiers. We can rest our heads at night knowing that someone can't just barge in and drag us into a prison because of our soldiers.

WE ARE THE LAND OF THE FREE BECAUSE OF THE BRAVE. And I will gladly sacrifice my time with my husband for that.

I love Nathan dearly, and I'm so proud. Today when you walk outside of your own home into your own yard, go to your own choice of job, shop where you like, eat what you wish, and enjoy your choices of entertainment say a prayer for Nathan and all the soldiers like him who make this possible. HOOAH!

One week and counting....

2008-11-03T13:28:00.000-08:00

In exactly one week I will say goodbye to Nathan and send him off to Basic Training at Fort Benning in Georgia. I'm excited to be walking forward to this next stage, but more excited to welcome him home at the finish line. :)

He does get an "Exodus" at Christmastime, so that's good! He'll get home on Christian's first birthday which is awesome! Then he reports back on Jan 1. He'll be gone until March. But this will open all kinds of opportunities for us. Is it weird to be excited about this? I mean I am not directly excited about sending him off...just what it means. :)

In any case, we're savoring the last moments this week and will send off our soldier with pride!

From a broken heart...

2008-10-30T13:09:00.000-07:00

This is a cross-post from my facebook account. Forgive me for not wanting to re-write everything....

This week has already been a trial for us. For those who didn't know (and please forgive me there are many of you) we found out a few weeks ago that we were pregnant. We were a little shocked as this was not in the "plan" per say, but thrilled none the less.

However, God's plans were different for this little one than ours were. Monday, October 27th, I began to miscarry and God brought our little one home to heaven. I'm not going to lie... it hurts. Especially because this is the second child He's called home before we got to know them.

The hurt will pass, it always does. The memory of what could of been will remain... it always does. I am trying not to ask why... it doesn't do any good. For now , I breathe in and breathe out. Tomorrow is filled with new promises and God is always good, regardless of our circumstances.

We will mourn for our time lost with little Logan...but rejoice that God holds our child, and that Jordan has another playmate in heaven! :)I think this song sums up where my heart is right now:

Praise You in This Stormwords by Mark Hall/music by Mark Hall and Bernie Herms

I was sure by now,God, that You would have reached down and wiped our tears away, stepped in and saved the day. But once again, I say amen and it's still raining as the thunder rolls I barely hear You whisper through the rain, "I'm with you"and as Your mercy falls I raise my hands and praise the God who gives and takes away.

Chorus: And I'll praise you in this storm and I will lift my hands for You are who You are no matter where I am and every tear I've cried You hold in your hand You never left my side and though my heart is torn I will praise You in this storm

I remember when I stumbled in the wind You heard my cry to Youand raised me up again my strength is almost gone how can I carry on if I can't find You and as the thunder rolls I barely hear You whisper through the rain "I'm with you"and as Your mercy falls I raise my hands and praise the God who gives and takes away

I lift my eyes onto the hills where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the maker of heaven and earth I lift my eyes onto the hills where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the maker of heaven and earth

A little bit more..

2008-09-08T21:15:00.001-07:00

I know, two posts in the same hour...has the world come to a screeching halt? No, but it did occur to me after I posted below that some of you haven't heard the latest in our crazy life:

Nathan lost his job two and a half weeks ago, rendering us entirely jobless. You know that verse, "Trust in the Lord..."? Well it's tangeable now! :) But you know what? I am not complaining. This is the best place we've been in a long time. Totally at the mercy of a God who is way more than capable of taking care of us than we can ever be. He's already provided a side contracting job for Nathan that has brought in a little bit of money, and we just sold our extra washer/dryer set today! We are blessed....

Also, the countdown has begun to Nathan leaving for Basic for the Army National Guard. He will ship out on Nov 10th... He will get two weeks leave at Christmas, and then be gone again until March-ish. (yeah I made that month up. haha) But the good news on that is that he will receive Active pay, housing allowance and full insurance the whole time he's gone as well. Isn't God good? I'm not looking forward to him being gone, but I have a feeling it will go faster than we think!

Anyway, that's about it for now, seeing as how it's 12:22 am and I desperately need sleep. I will try to do better at updating this thing! Pray for us in this season! I wish you all as blessed a life as we abundantly experience now... Goodnite all!

About a bazillion years ago...

2008-09-08T20:47:00.000-07:00

I posted something on here! :) At least that's what it feels like! I stink at remembering to update this thing. I must make ammends ....

I can't believe all the crazy things Christian can do now! He's crawling like a madman, and pulling up on the furniture and "walking" along it.... yep, my days of contentedly sitting in one place for 5 minutes are gone! :)

He absolutely cracks me up on a regular basis, though. This kid has one HUGE personality and I LOVE it. He will grab a toy and sit down on the hardwood floor and spin in a circle lifting it high over his head with an open mouth and a look that says, "WOAH!!! Behold, the TOY!!!!" Seriously, it's like the funniest thing I've ever seen! If laughter is good for the soul, my sweet boy is the cure-all for everything!

Here's a few pics to enjoy:

Simple Joys

2008-07-17T08:24:00.000-07:00

There is a simple joy that lives in the curiosity of a child and the smile that slowly edges it's way across that cute little face as he realizes what is going on. One of my favorite expressions on Christian lately, though, is his "hmmm what's going on here?" face. Check out these laundry day photos from a few weeks ago. Too precious...can a heart really hold all the love I have for this little one?

Mom, what's laundry?

Oh, sorry I asked...

I hear water...am I getting a bath?

Seriously, do I get to go in there?

Where are all the clothes going?

Nevermind, this basket is way more interesting!

2008-07-07T10:13:00.000-07:00

Make video montages at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Pics from the beach!

2008-06-27T10:35:00.000-07:00

Here are just a few shots from our vacation to Emerald Isle, NC!

first walk to the beach...look how excited he is!

First touch of the toes to the sand!

This water is cold!

Whoah...that's a big bath!

He looooved the pool and the blow up turtle!

Our little captain!

Getting all excited about the fish at the maritime museum!

A full day at the beach makes me tired!

Headed to the Beach!

2008-06-06T08:59:00.001-07:00

We're leaving today for our FIRST family vacation ever! :) Soooo very excited! I'm going to try to keep everyone updated on here as our week progresses. I can't wait to see what Christian thinks of the water!

until next time, take care!

Life moves too fast...

2008-04-28T08:19:00.000-07:00

I can't believe how long it's been since I've updated this blog! Sorry about that! :)

Christian is now 4 months, 2 weeks old, and growing more everyday both physically and in personality. He has recently discovered the sound of his own voice and loves to make screeching noises and gasping noises. He will now giggle if tickled on the side of his belly, and I have to tell you---it's the greatest sound in the world!

He loves playing in his "johnny jump-up" that hangs from the doorway, and rolls over from tummy to back on a regular basis. He has rolled once from back to tummy--however, it was when I was out of the room and I can't get him to do it again!

His four month check up went well, although his growth is still only in the 25% portion of the chart...poor kid, he's a little peanut! His weight as of last week was 13.7 pounds and his length was 24 1/2 inches. He has finally outgrown all of his 0-3 month clothes and is starting to get out of his plain 3 month sizes. On to the 3-6 month sizes!

In other news, we are closing (hopefully) this week on the townhouse we bought. It has so much more space...I can't wait to get the updates done and move in! But oh...life will be crazy until we're done! Someone tell me--does it ever get easier? Sometimes I feel like I'm running in that moment on Raiders of the Last Ark (I think it was that one) where Indy is running from that huge rolling boulder! Oh well, these are the moments that make life so much fun when you look back years later. :)

Well for now, I am going to grab something eat while I have a moment (yay for the jumper!). Here's some pics to enjoy!

Getting in the groove...

2008-03-11T20:41:00.000-07:00

Well, as we are nearing the three month mark since Christian's arrival, I feel like things are finally starting to hit a groove of sorts. Christian is starting to settle into a decent schedule, and I am finally learning how to get things accomplished during the day! Take today for example: (I feel very accomplished!)

1. Woke up at 6:45 to feed Christian (he did get up one other time during the night, but no big deal...I think we're in a growth spurt of sorts)

2. Went back to sleep (ahhh) and then woke up again at 8:45 (Yay for morning naps!) Then, another "breakfast" for Christian.

3. Shower at 9:00-YAY for getting this accomplished before lunchtime!

4. 9:45--Auntie Em came over to watch Christian while I went to LU to meet with my old boss to go over my consulting work.

5. 11:45--head home from LU to go kiss my sweet boy's cute little cheeks!

6. 12:30--feed Christian, and play on the floor... he was 'practicing' rolling over...he's soooo close!

7. 1:15--Christian goes down for a nap in his swing. (not the original intent for the swing, but that's what happened!haha)

8. 1:20-2:45 (Yep, you read that right!)--CLEAN the house: vacuum all the floors, mop the kitchen floor, do the dishes, reorganize the dining room contents including taking the leaf out of the dining room table and rearranging the furniture, then get some lunch!

9. 2:45--Get Christian up, changed, and fed.

10. 3:15-4:30--Play with Christian and catch up on work emails.

11. 4:30--Christian falls asleep in his bouncy seat after a hard round of giggling with Mommy.

12. 5:15--Christian wakes up and eats AGAIN haha

13. 5:30--Started dinner (With Christian's help sitting from his bouncy seat) We made honey barbeque chicken, lemon poppyseed muffins, baked potatoes, and salad! yuuuummmm.

14. 6:15--Daddy comes home!! (Christian was allll smiles!)

15. 7:30--Feed Christian

16. 8:00-10:00--Play with Christian while watching Biggest Loser (Mommy and Daddy watched, not Christian)

17. 10:15--BATHTIME!! Christian had fun playing in the bubbles.

18. 10:45--Feed Christian, swaddle him, and down for the night in the crib.

19. 11:15--Have a bowl of cereal (yum) and hang out with my hubby!

20. 12:08--sit down and write this blog!

Phew!! What a day, but yay! I got a lot accomplished! (I know, not many other people would think it was an exciting day, but I think my life is pretty fantastic!) Here's some more pics to enjoy!

I've gotta get better at posting! :)

2008-02-21T15:16:00.000-08:00

I'm horrible at this blogging thing. It just seems that life just FLIES by! How crazy these days are! Christian is now 9 weeks old! He had his first set of shots yesterday at his 2 month pediatric appt. So Sad! I had to look away so I didn't cry! He, however, did wonderfully! He cried a bit when they put the needle in, but quieted right down when I picked him up to cuddle with him. After that, he slept like a champ in his carseat for 3 more hours! :)

In other news, Christian has officially slept through the night for two nights in a row now! 11:30pm-6:30am!! YAY for sleep! Hopefully he keeps it up! Although, truth be told, I am wondering if he's only doing it because Nana is visiting and staying in his room with him. :) We'll see if the trend continues...

Pray for us, if you think of it! I have a terrible cold, and Christian seems to be getting it, too, poor kid! :(

Here's a few pics to enjoy:

Slideshow time!

2008-02-06T10:42:00.000-08:00

Just sharing some fun shots of our little man! I can't get over what a cutie he is!

Conversations with my son

2008-02-05T14:29:00.000-08:00

I've decided there aren't many things better than the "conversations" your children try to have with you before the real verbal ability begins. The coos and giggles, and spontaneous smiles and gurgles are the most pleasant sound any parent can hear! I know that there will be days in the future when Christian is babbling on at about 100 mph, and I'll laugh to myself and wish that I could find a moment of silence... but I won't want to trade those moments for anything! So, for now, I'll enjoy our conversations of noises and funny facial expressions until the day he can tell me his deepest darkest secrets in the highest prose possible! :) Here's a snippet to enjoy:

Tired, but loving life!

2008-01-11T14:44:00.000-08:00

So, I don't actually write very much on here... I figured I'd put down a few thoughts for the day.

1. I had no idea how much becoming a parent would change life!

2. Sleep is a privilege that is greatly appreciated when it happens!

3. Bathroom breaks are also few and far between! :)

4. Little bodies sure do go through a lot of diapers!

5. Little noses, toes, eyelashes... everything is cute!

6. I didn't know it was possible to love my husband any more, but I love him even more now that he's a daddy to my beautiful son!

7. This time will fly by, I'm sure... so I'll treasure every moment, even the sleepness nights.

More Pictures!

2008-01-06T13:21:00.001-08:00

Here's some shots from the photo shoot I did! :)

Christian Daniel is here!

2008-01-03T10:06:00.000-08:00

Sorry for the delay! Christian Daniel arrived December 19th, 2007 at 8:17am, weighing 7 pounds, 8 oz, and measuring 19 inches long! He's so beautiful, and we couldn't be any happier! Our faces hurt from grinning so much!

Week 38 Baby Updates!

2007-12-10T11:20:00.000-08:00

Only 9 days to go to c-section time!! We're very excited!!

Your baby probably weighs just over 7 pounds (3250g) by now and measures about 14.4 inches (36cm) from crown to rump and has a total length of about 21.5 inches (48cm).

Your baby's lungs are the last part to develop before birth. Once the lungs are developed, your baby is ready for life outside the womb.

By now your baby has almost run out of space to move in your uterus.

Your baby has shed most of his lanugo, though he may still have some on his shoulders and in the creases of his body.

His toenails reach the end of his toes.

The umbilical cord, which still is supplying your baby with nutrition as he gains more weight, may be knotted or wrapped around him.

Some of your antibodies have crossed the placental barrier and give your baby's immune system a boost to get him started until his is fully functioning.

Your baby could be born any day now!

Week 37 Updates!

2007-12-03T07:06:00.000-08:00

Well, we are OFFICIALLY considered full term now... If Christian comes anytime between now and his due date, he is no longer considered "pre-term"!! I am definitely feeling the effects of being full term---I'm tired and sore pretty much all the time! :) haha Hopefully this little guy will be showing up before too much longer! In any case, it's December FINALLY, and we're in the homestretch now! :) Here's a pic from several weeks ago:

Your Baby This Coming Week
On average, at this time, a baby weighs about 6.8 pounds (3100g) and measures about 14 inches (35cm) from crown to rump and 21 inches (47cm) total in length.
Your baby is still growing and gaining weight. Your baby may gain as much as 1 ounce (28g) a day at this point.

37w0d-37w6d - It’s the calm before the storm. Changes in your baby's weight have leveled off with only a few ounces of fat added this week. At this point your baby should weigh in at around 7 lbs and 20 inches (with boys somewhat heavier and longer than girls). Happily, as far as internal organs go, they are now developed enough to function in the outside world although the oh-so-important immune system is still developing and will continue to do so after birth. With a large boost of antibodies provided by breast milk when nursing begins. Fighting infection and staying healthy should be well within their physical capacity when your little fighter is born.

Week 35 Baby Updates!

2007-11-19T08:08:00.000-08:00

Only 35 days to go if we make it to the due date! We're hoping we go early! :)

Your baby weighs about 6 lbs (2750g) and measures about 20.7 inches (46cm) in length. Crown to rump measurement is about 13.5 inches (34cm).

Your baby now feels lower in your pelvis.

Your baby continues to grow, kick, and move about.

Your baby's face has filled out and the cheeks now look plump and full. Fat baby cheeks are caused by fat deposits, but also by powerful sucking muscles which your baby has been honing by sucking his thumb.

Your baby's skull is firm, but it is not hard as it needs to give a little when it is passing through the birth canal.

Your baby's head is probably down by now, but about three percent of babies present in a breech (bottom down) position. Your doctor may try to turn your baby around if it is in a breech position by putting pressure on your abdomen. This is called external cephalic version (ECV) and is effective in about 50% of cases. If your baby is in a breech position, ask your doctor about what your options are for the birth. You may or may not require a cesarean delivery.

Week 33 Baby Updates

2007-11-05T12:27:00.000-08:00

here's the rest of the update: I was told at my last appointment that I was "measuring large". What that means exactly, we don't know for sure. We are going to get an ultrasound to determine Christian's weight, my fluid measurement, etc tomorrow at 5pm. hopefully after that we will know a little more about when this little boy might make an appearance! I'll keep everyone updated. For now, we will stay on course with the 33 week updates:

Your baby weighs almost 5 lbs (2250 g) and is 12.8 inches (32cm) from crown to rump and about 19.8 inches (44cm) long.

If your baby were born now, he would be considered "pre-term" rather than premature. This distinction is based on fetal maturity, particularly the maturity of the fetal lungs. A pre-term baby, unlike a premature baby, is likely to have well-developed lungs and is less likely to need intensive care.

Your baby is surrounded by a red glow when sunlight shines on your belly and may be aware of this as he is able to differentiate between light and dark.

Your baby's hair is getting thicker, though it may be a different color when he is older.

He is currently shedding his lanugo, the fine downy hair that previously covered his body.

More vernix, the waxy coating that protects your baby's skin while submerged in amniotic fluid, is building up.

Your baby's adrenal glands are producing more steroid hormone, the androgen-like hormone that indirectly aids your milk production. Your baby is currently producing ten times more of this hormone than a normal adult and the adrenal glands are currently the same size as those of an adolescent. They will shrink after birth.

Your baby is laying down bone. To do this, he will draw calcium from you.

Your baby has taste buds and it has been suggested that he can taste and develop tastes for flavors found in the amniotic fluid, particularly flavors that you eat on a regular basis.

Week 32 Baby Updates!

2007-10-29T11:56:00.000-07:00

I'm getting really tired lately, so I know the homestretch has officially started. I can't wait to meet this little guy, and it seems like the next month or two can't go quickly enough!

Your baby now weighs about 4.4 lbs (2000g) and measures about 12 inches (30cm) from crown to rump and about 19.4 inches (43cm) in total.

Now that your baby is running out of room in your womb, you can probably see your belly moving as your baby kicks.

Your baby may dream as he sleeps and when awake he may be alert, listening, feeling and even seeing dim shapes.

Though your baby is still inside the womb, he is learning all the time as billions of neurons are making connections.

Your baby is probably in his birth position by now.

Your baby's lungs may be sufficiently developed by now, though if he were born now, he would probably still need an incubator to stay warm.

Week 31 Baby Updates!

2007-10-22T09:46:00.000-07:00

It's been a little while since I've updated--life has been crazy!! We've hit the 31 week mark, and I'm definitely feeling it! I'm much more sore and tired these days and breathing has become a little more difficult task to complete!

Here are Christian's "specs" for the week:

Your baby's total length is 18.9 inches (42cm) and he is perfectly formed! He measures about 11.6 inches (29cm) from crown to rump. All he has to do is fill out more.

Your baby weighs almost 4 pounds (1800g). If he were to be born now, he would still need to be incubated as he has insufficient fat stores to keep it warm.

Your baby can distinguish between light and dark.

Your baby can hear the outside world quite well now, and can also hear the sounds of your heartbeat, your digestion and the blood rushing in the umbilical cord. The pitch of women's voices are in the range babies are most able to hear over all the internal background noise.

Your baby is already familiar with your voice and will be able to recognize it after birth.

Week 28--Baby Updates!!

2007-10-03T12:59:00.000-07:00

Your baby now weighs about 2.7 lbs (1.2kg), measures about 10.4 inches (26cm) from crown to rump, and is around 16.7 inches (42cm) long. He is plumper and rounder, and his head and body are beginning to be in proportion.

Your baby now uses all of his senses. He can see, taste, recognize touch and the sound of your voice.

During the last trimester, your baby will receive antibodies from you through your placenta that will provide immunity from many diseases.

Your baby's adrenal glands are producing androgen-like substances. Androgens are normally male sex hormones, but in late pregnancy, when they reach the placenta they are turned into estrogen which in turn stimulates the production of prolactin in your body. Prolactin is the hormone needed for milk production.

And another update: Christian had to have another ultrasound done because he's been so squirmy they couldn't see his heart well. He was squirmy again, and his legs were still up in front of him in full frank breech mode, so they are sending us to get a Fetal Echo done on Oct. 8th at 2:00pm. Pray this little boy cooperates!! :)

Welcome to the THIRD TRIMESTER!!!!

2007-09-24T07:53:00.000-07:00

Week 27 updates.....

Your baby weighs about 2.5 lbs (1.1kg) and is about 10 inches (25cm) from crown to rump and 15 inches (38 cm) long from head to toe.

At this time, the baby has tastebuds which allow it to distinguish between sweet, sour and bitter tastes.

Brain tissue and brain development increases at this time as your baby grows the folds and grooves needed for a developed brain.

Eyebrows and eyelashes are probably present and the hair on your baby's head is growing longer.

Your baby's body is filling out, getting a bit fatter as fat deposition continues, but it is still somewhat red and wrinkled.

Your baby is big enough for his presentation to be determined. That is, your caregiver can probably tell how your baby is oriented in your uterus. He may be breech (bottom down) or head first. If your baby is in a breech position now, there is no need to worry as there is still plenty of room and time for your baby to change positions.

Your baby can feel pain and respond to it in the same way as a full term baby.

Week 26 Updates!!!

2007-09-17T09:46:00.000-07:00

We are officially under the 100 day mark!!! Yay for double digits!

Your baby weighs more than 2 lbs (1000g), measures 9.6 inches from crown to rump (24cm) and its total length is about 15.3 inches (34cm). If your baby were born now, he would have about an 85% chance of surviving. Nonetheless, your baby still needs another 13 weeks of in utero development to be considered full term.

Your baby's eyes, no longer fused shut, are now open.

Your baby's skin still has a very wrinkled appearance, but it is protected and nourished by the covering of vernix, a waxy coating that keeps the skin supple.

Your baby looks almost like a full term baby, but is still much thinner and smaller than he will be at birth.

Week 25 Updates!

2007-09-11T05:55:00.000-07:00

Your baby weighs just under 2 pounds (850g) and could possibly survive if delivered now. Your baby measures approximately 9.2 inches (23cm) from crown to rump.

He is growing fast and gaining weight now. His skin is less transparent and is becoming opaque as fat builds up.

Your baby's heart is beating 120 to 160 beats per minute, as you have already heard at several doctor or midwife visits.

Until now, your baby's eyes have been sealed shut, but he reopens them this week. The eyes are almost fully formed and the retinas contain all the layers they will have when your baby is born. Your baby's eyes are blue right now, no matter the ethnic origin or eye-color of you and your partner since eyes do not acquire their final color until months after birth.

Your baby is lean right now, but is getting fatter all the time as fat is being deposited. Your baby's skin is getting thicker and paler and is becoming less red and wrinkled as more fat is deposited.

Your baby has eyebrows, eyelashes and fingernails, though all are short and need to grow more.

On another note, I failed the 1 hour Gestational Diabetes test, so now I go back on Thursday for the 3 hour version! :( Oh well.... I'll let you know the results.

Week 24 Updates!

2007-09-04T06:42:00.000-07:00

We're VIABLE!!!

Your baby now weighs around 1.5 lbs (700g), and measures about 8.8 inches (22cm) from crown to rump, but this varies from baby to baby.

Your doctor should be able to hear your baby's heartbeat, using a stethoscope or Doppler ultrasound device. If your partner puts his ear right on your belly in the right position, he might even be able to hear it unaided if there is no background noise.

Your baby sleeps and wakes in a more regular pattern now. You may notice that your baby is particularly active when you are resting.

The center of your baby's bones are beginning to harden.

Your baby can make a fist now and may already have a preference for the right or left hand.

With modern medical technology, your baby would have a chance to survive if it were born now.

Week 23 Updates!

2007-08-27T08:02:00.000-07:00

Your baby is now about 8.4 inches from crown to rump (21cm) and weighs about 1.2 pounds (530g).

Your baby's face and body now look more like a full-term baby. He now looks close to how he will look at birth.

The eyes, though they are still closed, are now close together on the front of the face and the ears are in their final position. Eyelashes are fairly well-developed and hair is growing on your baby's head.

Your baby's movements are becoming more restricted now as he fills up the uterus more. Cartwheels and somersaults inside the amniotic sac are no longer possible, but he can still hold the umbilical cord and touch and feel around himself. Though your baby is already living in tight quarters in the amniotic sac, he will soon have even less room to move around.

His vital organs are now quite mature. However, since the lungs are not yet fully formed, your baby would have breathing problems if born prematurely at this stage.

Your baby is becoming increasingly conscious of the world outside and may feel startled when you are startled.

Your baby may alternate between having very active and very calm periods.

Your baby may have facial expressions such as frowning, squinting and pursing of the lips.

Christian's Bedding!

2007-08-20T13:16:00.000-07:00

Here's some quick shots of the bedding we picked out last weekend! Nathan actually picked it out--I thought he did pretty well!!

Week 22 updates!!

2007-08-20T09:01:00.000-07:00

Your baby now weighs almost 1 lb (450g) and measures about 8 inches (20cm) from crown to rump.

He is becoming plumper as his fat is being laid down at a high rate, but his skin is still wrinkled and reddish. The wrinkled and loose appearance of his skin is due to the faster production of his skin than the fat that fills it out. The reddish appearance of his skin is due to the deposition of pigment as his skin loses its translucent appearance.

Your baby can kick and punch vigorously by now, but he may also be gently feeling the umbilical cord and rubbing his hands and face against the inside membrane of the amniotic sac that holds him.

He is still swallowing amniotic fluid (which provides an important nutritional supplement to the nutrition he gets from you via the placenta). The swallowing of the amniotic fluid may cause your baby to get the hiccups and you may even be able to feel this as his body jumps inside yours.

The lanugo hair on your baby's body may turn darker at this time.

The coolest update from this week: I SAW my belly move when Christian kicked me on Saturday morning!! :)

2007-08-13T13:39:00.000-07:00

For some reason the post below would not edit my content correctly, so it didn't show this statement:

And the coolest update for the week---Nathan got to feel Christian kick for the first time last night!!!

Week 21 Updates!!!

2007-08-13T13:23:00.000-07:00

Your baby measures about 7.6 inches (19cm) from crown to rump and weighs about 12.25 ounces (350g).

Eyebrows have developed.

His digestive system now functions in a rudimentary manner. Your baby can suck and swallow and may even suck his thumb.

Your baby's senses are developing, especially his sense of touch. He can feel his face and stroke his arms and legs.

And the coolest update for the week----Nathan got to feel Christian kick for the first time last night!!

IT'S A BOY!!!!

2007-08-07T15:08:00.000-07:00

Our 20 week ultrasound went great! We got to see our little one squirming around all over the place. It took a bit of prodding, but he finally revealed himself.... our little boy, Christian Daniel!

He's beautiful and VERY active!! He'll be here sometime around Christmas! (He must know I'm talking about him. He's kicking me right now! haha)

We can't wait to meet this little guy!!!

20 week baby stats! :)

2007-08-06T15:43:00.001-07:00

Well, with 1 more day until the BIG ultrasound, here are the stats for this little one at 20 weeks!!

Your baby weighs about 10.5 ounces (300g) and measures about 7.2 inches (18cm) from crown to rump. He still moves about freely in amniotic fluid.

Your baby may respond to external sounds, such as the music you are listening to or your voice.
Your baby has developed some red blood cells already. The white blood cells that your baby needs to fight infections are being manufactured.

He is developing taste buds on his tongue.

His digestive system is sufficiently advanced to absorb water and sugar from the amniotic fluid that he swallows and pass it to his large bowel.

Your baby has lanugo hair on his forehead and upper lip and his eyebrows are thickening.

Vernix (the waxy substance that covers and protects your baby's skin) accumulates on your baby's eyebrows.

Your baby's eyes are still sealed shut.

Your baby continues to grow and develop and his kicking is getting stronger now.

4 days to go!

2007-08-03T07:45:00.000-07:00

Only 4 days until we find out whether this baby is a boy or a girl! I am so excited that I can hardly contain myself! :) I even made a paper chain to hang in my cubicle at work to help count down the days. I also started a poll outside my cubicle to see who would guess "boy" and who would guess "girl". So far, the boy guesses are edging out the girl guesses!! we'll soon see who's right!

The other big countdown we're waiting on is finding out the results from Nathan's Air Force Board. He's supposed to receive a call from his recruiter on the 10th, so we are anxiously awaiting the results!!! There are lots of changes happening next week... please pray for us that we will be faithful to be patient in our waiting and that we will be accepting of the results for the Board--whatever the outcome!

In the meantime, have a great day, and we will update soon!!

19 week stats!

2007-07-30T16:39:00.000-07:00

Your Baby This Coming Week
(fyi...these updates will switch back and forth between "he" and "she" from week to week.)

Your baby weighs about 9 ounces (260g) and measures about 5.6 to 6.4 inches (14 to 16cm) from crown to rump.

Her skin is thickening and developing multiple layers- the epidermis and the dermis, the deeper layer where it will form fat. Your baby is now also developing a waxy protective coating for her skin called vernix caseosa. The vernix protects your baby's skin which is continuously submersed in amniotic fluid. Vernix, which is particularly thick around the eyebrows is held in place by tiny downy hairs called lanugo.

Your baby can now grip with her fists. Toenails and scalp hair are growing.

At this point, it may be possible to determine the baby's sex by ultrasound, if the baby cooperates.

You can hear the baby's heartbeat with a Doppler ultrasound device or a stethoscope.

New to this....here it goes!

2007-07-30T16:20:00.000-07:00

Well, at the insistance of several friends, I am going to start this blog for our precious little one. We invite you to share with us our experience as we walk through these next few months of waiting for this wonderful new life that God has blessed us with.

A little background... We found out at the beginning of March that we were pregnant, only to discover the devasting news just a few days later that I was miscarrying. I can tell you right now that I have never felt pain like that! Not physically so much as emotionally and spiritually. The blessing in everything, though is that it never really occurred to me to be mad at God. And I took comfort in knowing that He held the little one that I would have to wait to see.

Well needless to say, we didn't plan on trying right away again. I had been using the basal body temperature method of charting cycles, but the doctor recommended that I put the thermometer away for the cycle after miscarrying. So, I did. Well, low and behold, six weeks later still no sign of the "Aunt Flo", so on a whim I bought a pregnancy test from the Dollar Tree. (who knew they sold those there?) Well, the test came up VERY positive, and I was a little nervous to say the least.

We had the pregnancy confirmed through an ultrasound that measured the baby at 6 weeks old. And our due date was officially placed at Christmas Day! What an unexpected gift after such pain of loss! Nathan and I could not have been happier!

I am now 19 weeks along, and we have 8 days until our BIG 20 week ultrasound that will determine the gender! I can't wait to be able to call this little one a he or a she, and not "it".

We hope you enjoy this journey with us! More updates to come!