I hope everyone's Christmas was good. Ours was great! We spent practically the whole week with my parents in West Jordan. It was nice to be with family for the holidays. Taylor is the only one living with my parents right now and it was great to be with them. I never thought I would say this but one of the highlights this past holiday weekend was the Wii my parents got for the family. It has been soooo much fun to play. And they have an amazing television to play it on. I even beat my husband Michael once in golf :). That felt great. Noelle got a few fun toys and a darling dress. I can't wait until she can actually play with them. She's starting to make cute baby noises. Sometimes it looks like she has so much to say! She's getting so big and the newborn clothes are fitting her perfectly now.
Me and Michael went and saw a movie while my family watched Noelle. It was weird leaving Noelle but it was great spending time with Michael. I'm so grateful for my family and how much they have done for us and have helped us with. I can't even express it. We owe them so much and I really don't know what we would do without them.
This Christmas was different because two people from our family weren't there, Eric and Alyson. Whenever Eric was around for the holidays he always had so much fun and was a blast to be around. It was hard not having him there. We miss him so much. It really made me think about the true meaning of Christmas and the sacrifice of our Savior. Without Him I wouldn't know that I will see my brother again and that families can be together forever. Nothing is even possible without him. I know Eric was there with us.
Alyson is in the MTC in Spain. We got to talk to her on Christmas for about 40 minutes. It was great to hear her voice and know that she is doing so well. It also put in to perspective what Christmas was all about. God loves all of his children and we are each important to him. This is a gospel of happiness and everything about it will make us feel joy if we let it. Alyson is doing great and will go in to the mission field really soon.
One last thing... We are moving to Ogden, Utah this Saturday! Michael will be starting school at Weber State on Jan. 5th where he will finish a bachelor degree in German (commercial emphasis) and a minor in Criminal Justice. We are so excited for this change in our lives and know it is what we are suppose to do. We've known for a while that we are suppose to go up there we just haven't worked out all the details. It seemed that everything got put on hold when Noelle was born. Everything has just recently fell in to place and so now we are rushing to get everything ready. I am very excited for our new little apartment because it now has two bedrooms and counter space in the kitchen. (I know it seems like something silly to be excited about but our little cottage right now is tiny! And there is no counter space whatsoever.)
We love you all and hope you have a very Happy New Year!
(Pictures to come)
Monday, December 29, 2008
Sunday, December 14, 2008
Our 7-pounder
We are so enjoying having Noelle home. She makes our days so exciting and happy. Even with the crazy sleep schedule. My friend/old roomie Cassie gave me advice before Noelle was born, something along the lines of: "Get as much sleep as you can now, because you won't get much when she is home. " Wow, was she right! But I love every moment I have with her, even when it's 3 am. :)
Noelle is continuing to grow a lot. She is now 7lbs 3oz, with clothes on that is and on my parents scale. So I'm sure it's a little off, but we don't care. Half of her preemie clothes are way too small and some fit perfectly. Which means in a week (if that) she won't be able to fit in them any more. She has successfully made two trips to Grandma Fullmer's house and is the center of attention when she is there. I'm sure she'll appreciate that more in the next few months. Me and her are hermits in our little Springville cottage. Before we left the NICU we were advised that we need to stay away from crowds, sick people, and children until late March, early April. (End of the RSV season) As a preemie she is a little more susceptible to germs and viruses so we're trying to follow what the doctors say as much as possible. Even though winter has just begun I'm honestly looking forward to it being over.
I have to say that I sure miss ALL of my in-laws. They are in Indiana and Texas. I wish we were closer or could visit more often. I wish Noelle could meet all of them. I just want them to know how much I love them and appreciate all they do for us.
Here are a few random/cute pictures of our little
Noelle:
Noelle is continuing to grow a lot. She is now 7lbs 3oz, with clothes on that is and on my parents scale. So I'm sure it's a little off, but we don't care. Half of her preemie clothes are way too small and some fit perfectly. Which means in a week (if that) she won't be able to fit in them any more. She has successfully made two trips to Grandma Fullmer's house and is the center of attention when she is there. I'm sure she'll appreciate that more in the next few months. Me and her are hermits in our little Springville cottage. Before we left the NICU we were advised that we need to stay away from crowds, sick people, and children until late March, early April. (End of the RSV season) As a preemie she is a little more susceptible to germs and viruses so we're trying to follow what the doctors say as much as possible. Even though winter has just begun I'm honestly looking forward to it being over.
I have to say that I sure miss ALL of my in-laws. They are in Indiana and Texas. I wish we were closer or could visit more often. I wish Noelle could meet all of them. I just want them to know how much I love them and appreciate all they do for us.
Here are a few random/cute pictures of our little
Noelle:
Monday, December 1, 2008
Home at last!
First and most importantly, NOELLE IS HOME! So much has happened in the last week that has led up to us bringing her home. She made such great progress and so quickly. Noelle started eating so well and one of the requirements to bring her home was that she needed to take all 8 of her feedings orally. Well she started doing this amazingly. Sunday, Nov. 23, the nurse that was attending Noelle told us that she doesn't expect us in the NICU (newborn intensive care unit) for longer than a week. This came so unexpectedly. We knew she was doing well but didn't realize how well. As the week went on she kept taking more and more feedings all on her own. And Noelle's pediatrician told us to expect her to come home on Saturday or Sunday (Nov. 29 or 30). We were so excited! But this meant that we needed to get A LOT done in a short amount of time. So as me and Michael started running around like chickens with our head cut off to get prepared for the arrival of our daughter, Noelle continued to grow and progress at an amazing rate. She was doing so good but she struggles a little with her oxygen still, mostly while she is eating. She still needs to get the whole "suck, swallow, breathe" action mastered. Babies born full term, for the most part, know how to do this but premature babies need to learn it all on their own. So this meant that we would be going home with a monitor (to monitor her heart rate and breathing) and oxygen. So Friday some people came in to train us on the monitor and oxygen. After this we got to do what is called "rooming in." That's where we spend 12 hours in a room with Noelle and her new monitors and take care of her all on our own. Well we obviously did a good job because we got to take her home on Sat. Nov 29 at around 10:30am! She left the hospital at 4lbs 9 oz and is still growing :)! We are so happy that she is home and feel so blessed that she is doing so well and is so strong. We just wanted to let everyone know the happy news and want to thank everyone for your thoughts and prayers.
Thursday, November 20, 2008
"Count your blessings, not your worries"
"Count your blessings, not your worries." That is the theme of the last couple of weeks for me and Michael. Well mostly me. Michael found this saying on the back of a Dove wrapper and it just seemed perfect for what was going on. I have been so focused on all of the things that there are to worry about when it came to Noelle that I didn't stop to think about all of the blessings. There have been so many:
1. She is a healthy baby and came out healthy.
2. Her lungs are strong.
3. She is awake and alert when we are there.
4. Her eye test was great.
5. Her brain x-ray was great.
6. She is responsive and has a good/beautiful cry.
7. She is ours!
I could go on and on. I have so much to be grateful for and I really can't focus on the things that there are to worry about.
As of Tuesday night Noelle weighed 3 lbs 12 oz. Yay! Our little girl is growing :). I know that doesn't sound like a lot but it is compared to the 2 lbs 15 oz she was when she was born. She has been moved to a different room. They call the room she is in now the "feeder and grower" room because nothing is wrong other than they need to learn how to eat and need to grow more. Right now she is in a little enclosed bed called an isolette. This is to help her to maintain her own body temperature so that she can grow more. I was able to help the nurse give her a bath the other night. I loved doing this. Noelle loved being in that warm water and almost seemed liked she had a smile on her face the whole time. She is moving tons and we get to dress her in her tiny, cute preemie clothes. Michael loves being with her and holding her. He is so confident at picking her up and changing her diaper, I am amazed. He's definitely more confident than I am. He loves being her dad and she already has him wrapped around her little finger. He has had a cold the last couple of days and hasn't been able to see her. This has made him so sad. Soon he'll get to go back and hopefully I don't get sick. Michael has been my anchor and my everything through this. I am amazed at the faith and strength that he has. He has been my shoulder to cry on and has comforted me more than he will ever know. I love him so much. I am so grateful to my Heavenly Father to have him and to have a beautiful daughter.
1. She is a healthy baby and came out healthy.
2. Her lungs are strong.
3. She is awake and alert when we are there.
4. Her eye test was great.
5. Her brain x-ray was great.
6. She is responsive and has a good/beautiful cry.
7. She is ours!
I could go on and on. I have so much to be grateful for and I really can't focus on the things that there are to worry about.
As of Tuesday night Noelle weighed 3 lbs 12 oz. Yay! Our little girl is growing :). I know that doesn't sound like a lot but it is compared to the 2 lbs 15 oz she was when she was born. She has been moved to a different room. They call the room she is in now the "feeder and grower" room because nothing is wrong other than they need to learn how to eat and need to grow more. Right now she is in a little enclosed bed called an isolette. This is to help her to maintain her own body temperature so that she can grow more. I was able to help the nurse give her a bath the other night. I loved doing this. Noelle loved being in that warm water and almost seemed liked she had a smile on her face the whole time. She is moving tons and we get to dress her in her tiny, cute preemie clothes. Michael loves being with her and holding her. He is so confident at picking her up and changing her diaper, I am amazed. He's definitely more confident than I am. He loves being her dad and she already has him wrapped around her little finger. He has had a cold the last couple of days and hasn't been able to see her. This has made him so sad. Soon he'll get to go back and hopefully I don't get sick. Michael has been my anchor and my everything through this. I am amazed at the faith and strength that he has. He has been my shoulder to cry on and has comforted me more than he will ever know. I love him so much. I am so grateful to my Heavenly Father to have him and to have a beautiful daughter.
Sunday, November 2, 2008
Our surprising and quick arrival of Noelle!
This week has been the craziest week for me and Michael. So much has happened in such a short amount of time so bare with me as I try to summarize everything into a few paragraphs.
Monday (Oct. 27) I went in for a doctors appointment thinking that everything would be normal. The previous week I had done two seperate 24 hour urine tests. One of the tests had come back and my doctor said that my protein level was really high. I don't remember the exact numbers but it was higher than normal. So because of this and that my blood pressure was still up he told me to pack an overnight bag for the hospital. Thank goodness Michael was there because this came as such a shock. But I stayed suprisingly calm. We got a bag packed quickly and we left for the hospital. We checked in and they put us into a room, where I of course got the chance to put on one of those lovely robes and layed on the bed until the doctor arrived. My mom got there, which was a great comfort. Before my doctor came they wanted to give me an ultra sound and have some kind of specialist look it over to see if there was anything else going on. As far as the baby was concerned everything was pretty healthy. Her heart was beating at a healthy pace and everything was developing well. She was a little small for how far along I was (32 weeks). The specialist came in and noticed the blood flow from the umbilical cord. She said that it wasn't quite pumping enough blood and nutrients and this had something to do with my placenta. (I know this isn't that clear, but it all happened so fast.) My second urine test came back with an even higher amount of protein in it. So she said that I had chronic hypertension and preeclampsia (toxemia) and that because of the high blood pressure I could have a seizure or a stroke and this would be very dangerous on the baby. She strongly suggested that we have the baby delivered as soon as possible. As you can imagine I'm getting a little emotional at this point, but still doing okay. My doctor got there and said the same thing. Because the risk was so high of having a stroke or a seizure he wanted to do a c-section because this was the fastest way to get her out. So within an hour I was drugged up as much as possible and on my way to the operating table with Michael by my side. Before this Michael, along with my doctor, had given me a blessing. I don't remember what was said, but I do remember feeling peace.
Within about 30 minutes Noelle was pulled out. She was born at 6:38pm, weighed 2lbs 15 oz and was 16 inches long. I was awake the whole time but couldn't feel a thing. As soon as they pulled her out Michael started taking pictures with my cell phone (this was the only camera we had at the time). She also had a pretty healthy cry which doesn't happen a lot with preemies. I was moved from the operating room into my normal room where I just had to wait and recover a little. Everything happened so fast that I don't think I really got a chance to take it all in. I'm glad it happened fast because it wasn't until later that my emotions caught up to me. The next day (Tues Oct 28) They moved me to another room and that is where I stayed until Friday evening. Noelle is doing really good! She is little but other than that does not have any additional problems. Her lungs are really strong and is only on a little oxygen. The nurses say that she is a fighter because she tries to pull the tubes out of her body every chance she gets. She is the most beautiful thing I have ever seen! They tell us that they try and make their actual due date the goal of when they get to go home. Sometimes they can go home before and sometimes it's after. We're just trying to be patient and trusting that everything will be okay. So much has happened that I would not have expected. I definitely don't like to see her hooked up to all those machines, it breaks my heart. But I know that she will be okay and that it's all in the Lord's time. Me and Michael are over there every chance that we get. We get to change her diaper, take her temperature and hold her twice a day. Those moments are so precious to us. I wish I had a room right next to her. There's the update. I will give more updates throughout the coming weeks of her progress. We have lots of pictures already and when we get a chance will put them on here and facebook. We've had so much support from friends and family and the Lord has blessed us so much. Pray for our little Noelle!
Monday (Oct. 27) I went in for a doctors appointment thinking that everything would be normal. The previous week I had done two seperate 24 hour urine tests. One of the tests had come back and my doctor said that my protein level was really high. I don't remember the exact numbers but it was higher than normal. So because of this and that my blood pressure was still up he told me to pack an overnight bag for the hospital. Thank goodness Michael was there because this came as such a shock. But I stayed suprisingly calm. We got a bag packed quickly and we left for the hospital. We checked in and they put us into a room, where I of course got the chance to put on one of those lovely robes and layed on the bed until the doctor arrived. My mom got there, which was a great comfort. Before my doctor came they wanted to give me an ultra sound and have some kind of specialist look it over to see if there was anything else going on. As far as the baby was concerned everything was pretty healthy. Her heart was beating at a healthy pace and everything was developing well. She was a little small for how far along I was (32 weeks). The specialist came in and noticed the blood flow from the umbilical cord. She said that it wasn't quite pumping enough blood and nutrients and this had something to do with my placenta. (I know this isn't that clear, but it all happened so fast.) My second urine test came back with an even higher amount of protein in it. So she said that I had chronic hypertension and preeclampsia (toxemia) and that because of the high blood pressure I could have a seizure or a stroke and this would be very dangerous on the baby. She strongly suggested that we have the baby delivered as soon as possible. As you can imagine I'm getting a little emotional at this point, but still doing okay. My doctor got there and said the same thing. Because the risk was so high of having a stroke or a seizure he wanted to do a c-section because this was the fastest way to get her out. So within an hour I was drugged up as much as possible and on my way to the operating table with Michael by my side. Before this Michael, along with my doctor, had given me a blessing. I don't remember what was said, but I do remember feeling peace.
Within about 30 minutes Noelle was pulled out. She was born at 6:38pm, weighed 2lbs 15 oz and was 16 inches long. I was awake the whole time but couldn't feel a thing. As soon as they pulled her out Michael started taking pictures with my cell phone (this was the only camera we had at the time). She also had a pretty healthy cry which doesn't happen a lot with preemies. I was moved from the operating room into my normal room where I just had to wait and recover a little. Everything happened so fast that I don't think I really got a chance to take it all in. I'm glad it happened fast because it wasn't until later that my emotions caught up to me. The next day (Tues Oct 28) They moved me to another room and that is where I stayed until Friday evening. Noelle is doing really good! She is little but other than that does not have any additional problems. Her lungs are really strong and is only on a little oxygen. The nurses say that she is a fighter because she tries to pull the tubes out of her body every chance she gets. She is the most beautiful thing I have ever seen! They tell us that they try and make their actual due date the goal of when they get to go home. Sometimes they can go home before and sometimes it's after. We're just trying to be patient and trusting that everything will be okay. So much has happened that I would not have expected. I definitely don't like to see her hooked up to all those machines, it breaks my heart. But I know that she will be okay and that it's all in the Lord's time. Me and Michael are over there every chance that we get. We get to change her diaper, take her temperature and hold her twice a day. Those moments are so precious to us. I wish I had a room right next to her. There's the update. I will give more updates throughout the coming weeks of her progress. We have lots of pictures already and when we get a chance will put them on here and facebook. We've had so much support from friends and family and the Lord has blessed us so much. Pray for our little Noelle!
Thursday, October 23, 2008
2 more months to go!
Lots of updates today. Last week we had another ultra sound, just to see her progress and everything. It was the coolest thing. We even got a video! She is doing good but a little bit smaller than we were expecting. That's probably due to my high blood pressure. She's only about a week behind and the doctor isn't worried. We got to see an awesome shot of her hands on her cheeks and by her mouth. She likes to touch her face a lot. It was so cute and made us so excited!
This past weekend I felt really weird, sore, and extremely exhausted. It's almost like I could feel my blood pressure rise. On Monday when I went in for my doctors appointment my blood pressure was 152/110. Not good! So the doctor put me on bed rest :(. He is also having some other tests done on me. And he gave me some steroid shots for little Noelle's lungs so they can develop quicker, just in case she comes early. Today my blood pressure was way down (125/81) and he said it was most likely because I was off of my feet and not so stressed. Apparently I stress out a lot and that's just what my body does or how it reacts. Noelle is doing good and her heartbeat is healthy and is still moving a lot. Bed rest has been okay. Michael has been so wonderful and patient and I really don't know what I would do without him. Thank you Michael! I have a great visiting teacher who is always calling to check up on me and a great ward. My dad brought me lunch and brought us some groceries. Thank you! My mom came down yesterday and cleaned our house, did the dishes, bathroom, etc. It helped so much and I am so grateful for her. Her and my sister also brought me some books to read. If anyone has any suggestions on what books to read or other things to do, please let me know! Sometimes it gets so frustrating and discouraging not being able to do anything really for yourself. You have to rely completely on someone else. It sure has made me grateful for what I do have. I have felt a lot of mixed emotions the last couple of days and I am realizing what things really matter. My faith has gone to a completely different level and I'm learning to be humble, that's for sure. Noelle is healthy and I want to do anything I can to keep her that way. Me and Michael are to the point now that we just can't wait to hold her and look at her. It's getting so close :). Only 2 months, more or less! Thanks for everyones support and love!
This past weekend I felt really weird, sore, and extremely exhausted. It's almost like I could feel my blood pressure rise. On Monday when I went in for my doctors appointment my blood pressure was 152/110. Not good! So the doctor put me on bed rest :(. He is also having some other tests done on me. And he gave me some steroid shots for little Noelle's lungs so they can develop quicker, just in case she comes early. Today my blood pressure was way down (125/81) and he said it was most likely because I was off of my feet and not so stressed. Apparently I stress out a lot and that's just what my body does or how it reacts. Noelle is doing good and her heartbeat is healthy and is still moving a lot. Bed rest has been okay. Michael has been so wonderful and patient and I really don't know what I would do without him. Thank you Michael! I have a great visiting teacher who is always calling to check up on me and a great ward. My dad brought me lunch and brought us some groceries. Thank you! My mom came down yesterday and cleaned our house, did the dishes, bathroom, etc. It helped so much and I am so grateful for her. Her and my sister also brought me some books to read. If anyone has any suggestions on what books to read or other things to do, please let me know! Sometimes it gets so frustrating and discouraging not being able to do anything really for yourself. You have to rely completely on someone else. It sure has made me grateful for what I do have. I have felt a lot of mixed emotions the last couple of days and I am realizing what things really matter. My faith has gone to a completely different level and I'm learning to be humble, that's for sure. Noelle is healthy and I want to do anything I can to keep her that way. Me and Michael are to the point now that we just can't wait to hold her and look at her. It's getting so close :). Only 2 months, more or less! Thanks for everyones support and love!
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
Week 29!
I'm feeling tired but good. I'm 29 weeks along now (wooohooo!-only 11 more to go, or around there) and I'm really feeling huge. I don't know how any one else felt, but I feel like she's growing by the minute and getting much heavier. I went to my doctor's appointment and my blood pressure (bp) was ok. He's said that I was maintaining, which I really didn't want to hear, but at least it's not getting worse. I have to take one more bp pill a day and the doctor made me cut my hours at work. So now I am working part time and going home to take a nap. My hands and feet are swelling up a little too and being off my feet will really help with that. The good news from my doctor: she's moving a lot, she has a very healthy heart beat, and my weight is doing great! Like I said I'm trying to stay off my feet more so our little house is suffering a little. It takes a lot of control for me not to clean or do other things with the extra hours I have now. Michael is really good though and cleans for me, without even being asked :). The top 3 chores I've hated since I've been pregnant:
3. Making the bed
2. Doing the dishes
1. Cleaning the bathroom (particularly the bathtub)
I've really started to love the color pink. Ever since we knew that our baby was a girl everything pink looks so cute. The other colors are great but for some reason I just want to buy pink things. Maybe I'm just weird, did anyone else feel that way at one point? I think everything "baby girlish" looks cute to me. We're getting so excited to have her here with us and I honestly feel like I am getting to know her already. My sister Alyson sent me a text the other day about how she already feels that little Noelle is part of our family. Me and Michael totally feel that way too and I already want to protect her in any way that I can. My motherly worries are already starting (which isn't unusual if you know me, I always worry). 11 more weeks to go, that still sounds like a lot, but we are getting more excited with every passing week!
3. Making the bed
2. Doing the dishes
1. Cleaning the bathroom (particularly the bathtub)
I've really started to love the color pink. Ever since we knew that our baby was a girl everything pink looks so cute. The other colors are great but for some reason I just want to buy pink things. Maybe I'm just weird, did anyone else feel that way at one point? I think everything "baby girlish" looks cute to me. We're getting so excited to have her here with us and I honestly feel like I am getting to know her already. My sister Alyson sent me a text the other day about how she already feels that little Noelle is part of our family. Me and Michael totally feel that way too and I already want to protect her in any way that I can. My motherly worries are already starting (which isn't unusual if you know me, I always worry). 11 more weeks to go, that still sounds like a lot, but we are getting more excited with every passing week!
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
I love fall!
In honor of fall and the last day of September, I've decided to change my background. I love fall! I love the cool weather and wearing sweaters and jackets. I love the smell of leaves and of pumpkin candles. I love Halloween, carving pumpkins, and eating baked pumpkin seeds. I love going to the mountains and seeing all of the leaves change. I love the memories that I've made with family and friends and for some reason fall just brings that out. I love stepping on leaves and hearing that sound. I love going on walks during fall. Anyway, you get the picture. This year is the first year that I didn't go "back to school" and I actually miss it. I don't miss the homework or the tests but I miss the whole new clothes, new books feeling. I guess I'll just have to wait until I have kids who are old enough to go to school. We're doing really good and should have some more updates on everything soon. I hope everyone is doing good and enjoys conference weekend!
Friday, September 19, 2008
Pregnancy Comments and Gratitude
So things are good... My blood pressure is lower and according to the doctor everything is on track. I’m 26 weeks and it finally feels more like I am making progress in this pregnancy. A little while ago someone thought that I was having twins. Those who know me and have been pregnant before understand why at first that statement isn’t the most flattering. Most people are surprised when I say I’m due at the end of December, they think I should be due sooner. I’ve gotten plenty of comments on how terrible it will be to have a baby born around Christmas and how we will have to make their day extra special. And the advice from people I hardly know keeps on coming every time I go to church or work. At first all of this really bugged me and irritated me. I don’t get mad very often but some of these women would make me really angry. But when I take a minute and let all those comments pass and really think about the little girl inside me everything just seems to go away. I’m so grateful to have her and a husband who is so loving and caring in every way. Things haven’t been easy in a number of ways and it’s funny how Heavenly Father tries you and tests you to help you to become more grateful. I got this quote on an email the other day that I wanted to share.
"Tribulations are frightening. And yet the Lord said: 'Be of good cheer, for I will lead you along. The kingdom is yours and the blessings thereof are yours, and the riches of eternity are yours." 'And he who receiveth all things with thankfulness shall be made glorious' (D&C 59:7)."The kind of gratitude that receives even tribulations with thanksgiving requires a broken heart and a contrite spirit, humility to accept that which we cannot change, willingness to turn everything over to the Lord--even when we do not understand, thankfulness for hidden opportunities yet to be revealed. Then comes a sense of peace."When was the last time you thanked the Lord for a trial or tribulation? Adversity compels us to go to our knees; does gratitude for adversity do that as well?"President David O. McKay observed, 'We find in the bitter chill of adversity the real test of our gratitude . . . , which . . . goes beneath the surface of life, whether sad or joyous. '
~Bonnie D. Parkin, "Gratitude: A Path to Happiness," Ensign, May 2007, 35 36
I am grateful for the things in my life that make me who I am and shape me in to more of the person that Heavenly Father wants me to be. I’m grateful for the power of prayer. Sometimes it’s hard to know that our prayers are working and really being heard but I know they are because we have a Father who loves us and knows what is best for us. And I’m grateful to everyone in my life who,in little and big ways, help me to see who I am.
"Tribulations are frightening. And yet the Lord said: 'Be of good cheer, for I will lead you along. The kingdom is yours and the blessings thereof are yours, and the riches of eternity are yours." 'And he who receiveth all things with thankfulness shall be made glorious' (D&C 59:7)."The kind of gratitude that receives even tribulations with thanksgiving requires a broken heart and a contrite spirit, humility to accept that which we cannot change, willingness to turn everything over to the Lord--even when we do not understand, thankfulness for hidden opportunities yet to be revealed. Then comes a sense of peace."When was the last time you thanked the Lord for a trial or tribulation? Adversity compels us to go to our knees; does gratitude for adversity do that as well?"President David O. McKay observed, 'We find in the bitter chill of adversity the real test of our gratitude . . . , which . . . goes beneath the surface of life, whether sad or joyous. '
~Bonnie D. Parkin, "Gratitude: A Path to Happiness," Ensign, May 2007, 35 36
I am grateful for the things in my life that make me who I am and shape me in to more of the person that Heavenly Father wants me to be. I’m grateful for the power of prayer. Sometimes it’s hard to know that our prayers are working and really being heard but I know they are because we have a Father who loves us and knows what is best for us. And I’m grateful to everyone in my life who,in little and big ways, help me to see who I am.
Monday, August 18, 2008
Missing Eric
So lately I have been missing my brother Eric a lot. There have been times where I have felt him so close and these times, as good as they are, are sometimes more difficult. As I am getting closer to having this baby and as things are changing in the lives of my family I am wishing so much that Eric could be here to experience it all with us. As I have been studying the scriptures and praying I have been comforted to know that Eric IS experiencing it all with us, just in a different way. About two months ago I was talking to a friend from high school and he lost a brother a while ago. But he said some things that really made me think and helped me to find some peace. He said:
“You know, this may not only bring your family here on earth closer, but since love can still pass through the veil, then it can still bring your brother closer to your family and help in the healing process he is experiencing in the sprit world. And there are things that he can still do for you and your family on the other side, even things that he couldn't do here, such as praying for things that you do not because you are not aware of them. But he is."
My testimony of Eternal Families has been strengthened so much in the last few months. I can’t tell you how much I long to see my brother. I know I won’t see him in this life, but I know with all of my heart that if I do my part here that I will see him again. I am so grateful for the gospel and I know that this is Jesus Christ’s true church. This gospel is a gospel of happiness. And as much sadness and heartache we experience Christ brings a light and a peace to me that cannot be replace by anything else. I know his atonement is real and that he knows each of us. I know Eric is working and learning and is happy. I have not been able to doubt the fact that he is happy and this thought has come to me so many times. I miss him so much, every single day. I love him and have felt closer to him. (I just felt I needed to share these thoughts. It was probably just for me to hear them and share my testimony.)
“You know, this may not only bring your family here on earth closer, but since love can still pass through the veil, then it can still bring your brother closer to your family and help in the healing process he is experiencing in the sprit world. And there are things that he can still do for you and your family on the other side, even things that he couldn't do here, such as praying for things that you do not because you are not aware of them. But he is."
My testimony of Eternal Families has been strengthened so much in the last few months. I can’t tell you how much I long to see my brother. I know I won’t see him in this life, but I know with all of my heart that if I do my part here that I will see him again. I am so grateful for the gospel and I know that this is Jesus Christ’s true church. This gospel is a gospel of happiness. And as much sadness and heartache we experience Christ brings a light and a peace to me that cannot be replace by anything else. I know his atonement is real and that he knows each of us. I know Eric is working and learning and is happy. I have not been able to doubt the fact that he is happy and this thought has come to me so many times. I miss him so much, every single day. I love him and have felt closer to him. (I just felt I needed to share these thoughts. It was probably just for me to hear them and share my testimony.)
Baby, blood pressure, etc.
So my blood pressure was way up the last time I went to the doctor. He put me on a higher dosage of the current medicine I was taking. Of course I asked him if it was safe. What was I thinking? He is an expert on women issues, babies and the medicines that they can and cannot have. It’s totally safe. But if it gets worse he will try another medicine and if that doesn’t work I will have to go on bed rest. I’m not looking forward to that option but I will do whatever to keep our baby safe and healthy, which means keeping me safe and healthy. I’m frustrated with the high blood pressure but my doctor said this just may be how my body reacts to pregnancy. But I’m feeling good and getting bigger. I’m 22 weeks, so a little over half way. I know I’ve come a long way, but it sometimes still feels like December 22 is forever away. I’m sure enjoying the maternity clothes. They are so comfortable. I never thought I would say that :). We’re getting so excited to have a little girl in our lives. I feel her move a lot and Michael finally felt her kick last night. This was the first time he felt her and he was so happy. Things are going great!
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
IT'S A GIRL!
It's official, we are having a girl! We went in to get the ultrasound today and the very first thing the doctor saw was what makes a girl a girl. He double checked it and was very sure and so were we. We're so excited! I'm so happy to finally know the gender. I don't have to call the baby "it" anymore. She was moving a lot and is at the right size that she should be. This is the coolest feeling ever. Michael was very excited and shocked all at the same time. I feel so happy and blessed right now.
For bigger and clearer pictures go to: (you have to log in to facebook to see these) http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=32567909&id=193306163
For bigger and clearer pictures go to: (you have to log in to facebook to see these) http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=32567909&id=193306163
Lindsey through the years...
20 years ago....
~I was about to turn 5.
~Me and my family were moving to Maryland.
~I only had one brother.
10 years ago....
~I couldn't wait to go to highschool.
~I wanted to be a veternarian.
~I hated to read.
5 years ago....
~I was about to start my 3rd year of college. (man I feel old)
~I was super obsessed with Harry Potter.
~I was excited about my major in college.
3 years ago....
~I was walking in the cold, rainy streets of Chile! Yeah!
~I was companions with Emily, I think.
~I was about to have my first birthday on the mission.
This year....
~We found out that I was going to have a baby. Yay!
~I survived student teaching!
~I graduated with my bachelors in Elementary Education.
~I have really learned to be more frugal with my money (thanks to my husband)
~My sister will leave on her mission! I'm so happy for her.
Yesterday....
~I read Breaking Dawn.
~I forgot half the things that I needed to do.
~I ate dinner with my wonderful and loving husband.
Today....
~We get to find out if we are having a son or a daughter!
~I'm excited to eat my salad.
~I felt the baby move!
Tomorrow....
~I have to work as always.
~Is the middle of the week!
In the next year....
~We will be in a different part in Utah (si Dios quiere).
~We will have a growing child (weird, but cool)
~Maybe I will decorate for holidays and decorate where we are living a little.
~I will work out more!
~I was about to turn 5.
~Me and my family were moving to Maryland.
~I only had one brother.
10 years ago....
~I couldn't wait to go to highschool.
~I wanted to be a veternarian.
~I hated to read.
5 years ago....
~I was about to start my 3rd year of college. (man I feel old)
~I was super obsessed with Harry Potter.
~I was excited about my major in college.
3 years ago....
~I was walking in the cold, rainy streets of Chile! Yeah!
~I was companions with Emily, I think.
~I was about to have my first birthday on the mission.
This year....
~We found out that I was going to have a baby. Yay!
~I survived student teaching!
~I graduated with my bachelors in Elementary Education.
~I have really learned to be more frugal with my money (thanks to my husband)
~My sister will leave on her mission! I'm so happy for her.
Yesterday....
~I read Breaking Dawn.
~I forgot half the things that I needed to do.
~I ate dinner with my wonderful and loving husband.
Today....
~We get to find out if we are having a son or a daughter!
~I'm excited to eat my salad.
~I felt the baby move!
Tomorrow....
~I have to work as always.
~Is the middle of the week!
In the next year....
~We will be in a different part in Utah (si Dios quiere).
~We will have a growing child (weird, but cool)
~Maybe I will decorate for holidays and decorate where we are living a little.
~I will work out more!
Friday, August 1, 2008
Baby Update
I am currently 19 weeks and doing great. Some of you know about the blood pressure problem that I was having but my doctor put me on some medicine and it's lowered tremendously.
I've never had a migraine before being pregnant but about a month ago I had a really bad one and got really sick. My doctor told me to go to the hospital if I had any more so about 2 weeks ago I had another one and went to the emergency room. I really don't like to go unless I absolutely have to, but my wonderful husband convinced me to go and pretty much was like "It's better to be safe than sorry." Which I do agree with, especially when it comes to being pregnant. I went in and they did a few tests and gave me an iv with some medicine that made me even more nauseated, tired and loopy. But the end result was good and nothing was wrong which I was grateful about. I love my husband for taking such good care of me and putting me above his own sleep and rest. We didn't get home from the hospital until about 3:30am in the morning.
The baby's heart beat is about average and giving me no insight into whether it's a girl or a boy. But we do get to go in on August 5th to find out and we're so excited! I am really starting to feel pregnant now and am starting to feel the baby move. It's the neatest feeling. Michael is getting so excited and says hi to the baby every morning, which I think is so cute. I'm so excited to be a mom and I can't wait to get to know my little boy or girl! More updates to come…
I've never had a migraine before being pregnant but about a month ago I had a really bad one and got really sick. My doctor told me to go to the hospital if I had any more so about 2 weeks ago I had another one and went to the emergency room. I really don't like to go unless I absolutely have to, but my wonderful husband convinced me to go and pretty much was like "It's better to be safe than sorry." Which I do agree with, especially when it comes to being pregnant. I went in and they did a few tests and gave me an iv with some medicine that made me even more nauseated, tired and loopy. But the end result was good and nothing was wrong which I was grateful about. I love my husband for taking such good care of me and putting me above his own sleep and rest. We didn't get home from the hospital until about 3:30am in the morning.
The baby's heart beat is about average and giving me no insight into whether it's a girl or a boy. But we do get to go in on August 5th to find out and we're so excited! I am really starting to feel pregnant now and am starting to feel the baby move. It's the neatest feeling. Michael is getting so excited and says hi to the baby every morning, which I think is so cute. I'm so excited to be a mom and I can't wait to get to know my little boy or girl! More updates to come…
Hi!
I finally decided that we needed to start a blog. I think right now this is really the best way to let people know what is going on in our lives. Although the blog itself is not very exicting, I'm excited to start one.
We are still in the ice age and do not own a digital camera. So hopefully family members will let us borrow theirs to put at least some pictures on here. We definitely will have one before December as we are going to have a new addition to the Michael and Lindsey Pfeil family! If any one has any advice on what brand of camera to get and what you've liked and not liked please let me know.
We are still in the ice age and do not own a digital camera. So hopefully family members will let us borrow theirs to put at least some pictures on here. We definitely will have one before December as we are going to have a new addition to the Michael and Lindsey Pfeil family! If any one has any advice on what brand of camera to get and what you've liked and not liked please let me know.
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