An Unexpected Arrival

What can I say? Our daughter made her appearance on August 19th, 2007 at 9:03 am. Yes, she was four weeks early, but that isn't the best part of her arrival. (Her actual arrival date should have been September 16th - meaning that I would still be PG right now.) Let me take you back to the Thursday before Kaitlyn was born.

It was my 36 week appointment and the doctor checked me. I was 2 centimeters and 70% effaced. (Whatever that means... but everyone informed me including my doctor that I would not deliver over the weekend.) (I have to add something I forgot to mention... I lied when I said everyone told me I would not deliver over the weekend. Diane had a dream the week before we left that my water would break this weekend and told me to stay home and hang out with her.) So, on Friday Nate and I were on our way to Alexandria with his parents, sisters, and niece and nephew. (Don't worry I made sure that I knew where the hospital was when we drove through Alexandria.)

Saturday night while trying to fall asleep and waiting for Nate to get back from the bar, my back started to hurt. I started praying to just let me fall asleep and that I couldn't be in labor. After a few hours of trying to ignore my back pain... my water broke. By this time Nate was in bed sleeping and so were his parents. Of course, I had to wake up everyone to let them know that I was pretty confident that my water broke. I called my doctor and they informed me that driving 2 hours home was not in our best interest. So, off to the Dakota County Hospital at about 2 in the morning. Of course, I was nervous as my contractions were five minutes apart.

The Labor...

Before I was afraid that I wouldn't know when I was in Labor... to be honest when my back started to hurt I was questioning what was going on... It wasn't until my water broke that I realized that I was definitely in labor. Once we got to the hospital my contractions started getting stronger and every 2-3 minutes. (No time to rest in-between - so frustrating.) The most disappointing part was that I was still only dilated to a 2. (What?) They did give me some sort of pain medicine to take the edge off... so I could rest... what do you mean rest? Plus, what is the deal with the number scale for pain... Um... my pain level... is off the chart. Oh, the pain medicine to take the edge off did not help during the most active part of my labor. I asked for a epidural, but I needed to be dilated to a 4 before they give you that. By 8 am I could tell that things were changing. They checked me again and I was dilated to 7... I guess I won't be getting an epidural. Than at 9:03 she was born. Here are some wonderful Nikki quotes during labor...

"Can't you just go in and get her?"

"Get the doctor now... I mean NOW... I need to push."

Doctor - "Do you want to feel her head?"

Nikki - "NO! I just want her out.... NOW!!!!!" - I don't even want to see this happening. I can feel it and that is enough for me.

FYI - Don't get a pedicure on vacation and close to your due date... unless you want to deliver that day.

Kaitlyn Jean McNeilly weighed 6 lbs. and was 18 1/2 inches long. I wonder what she would have been if she was full term... Some people tell me the last month of pregnancy is the worst, so I am happy I missed that.

About 24 hours after Kaitlyn was born she developed a mild case of Jaundice. We had to stay an extra day in the hospital so that her numbers were low enough to get home. On Wednesday night at 7pm Kaitlyn was discharged and we were on our way home. The next day we went into our clinic to have her Bilirubin checked and it had jumped from 11 points to 16.9. (Still not in the danger zone.) The doctor ordered us to keep her on a bili-bed. This special bed has UV lights that helped her process the bilirubin in her system. So, the past 3 weeks we have been taking Kaitlyn in to get blood drawn every other day. She is still Jaundice, but the doctor thinks she is starting to work through it. The doctor thinks the main reason she is Jaundice is because she was so early. This has really taught me patience.

Kaitlyn did not mind laying on the bed. I think it was harder for me to not be able to hold her unless she was eating. We did this for several days. For the past week we haven't had to use the bed. Plus, the doctor gave us a week break from the Lab. We don't go back until next Monday to check her levels. Oh, and she weigh 6 lbs. 6 oz. as of Friday.

Another Wedding

Last Friday my good friend Chad got married. Nate and I enjoyed the nice weather and beautiful scenery of Lake Minnetonka. They had a very nice ceremony under the tent with some great food and dancing. We are so excited to have Ashley join our group of friends. Saturday Nate and I spent all day out on the lake. We invited my sister Anne, her friend Lindsay, and our friend Sean out with us. We had a blast floating in different bays, feeding the sunfish our lunch, and enjoying a nice dinner at Lord Fletchers. The weather and water were perfect. You could not have asked for a better day. We sure do enjoy being able to spend time on the lake with our friends.

Here is Nate and I on our way back to the launch. The sunset was beautiful. We hope that we have a few more weekends like this before our daughter arrives.

Here is a picture of my sister and her friend Lindsay. We all got a lot of sun that day. Sean wasn't too big into letting me take a picture of him. Maybe next time.

A Weekend Full of Events

Brandon and Diane Tied the Knot

This past Saturday our neighbors Brandon and Diane got married. They had a beautiful outdoor wedding in Minnetonka. The weather was perfect. Diane and I started our morning by getting our hair done. Then it was off to get dressed and ready for pictures. We took pictures down by Minnehaha creek... I can't wait to see how they turned out. Here is a picture of Diane and I after we got our hair done. It was fun to have someone else do our hair for a change.

Here is a picture of Nate and I right before the wedding. I am just so happy that it wasn't humid out, so we could enjoy being outside for most of the day. The reception was at Brandon's parents house where we had dinner and a bonfire. By the end of the night I was ready to just lay down in our bed. My back was so sore from all the activities from the day. (The joys of being 8 months pregnant.)

Baby Shower in Mora

After my big day on Saturday my weekend was far from over. Sunday morning I got up and drove to Mora for Nate's side of the family baby shower. We had so much fun playing the games that Mandi (Nate's sister) and Angie (Nate's cousin) thought of for the shower.

One game we played was to see who could drink the most liquid out of a bottle within a certain period of time. Of course I didn't win, but it was really fun to watch everyone else trying to drink as fast as they could.
Hailey (Nate's niece) helped me open all my gifts. She was a big help. We asked her "Where is Nikki's baby?" - Hailey's response "In mommy's tummy!" Thank you to everyone for giving us such wonderful gifts.

After the shower I had to drive back to Eden Prairie for Nate's company picnic. We enjoyed some BBQ, swimming, and soccer. Of course I was just a bystander on the game playing, but it was fun to talk to all his co-workers and spouses.

I am so happy that my busy weekend is over and next weekend I will get to relax on the lake.

Thoughts for the Week

Maternity Swimsuits

Being pregnant in the summer sometimes means that you might have to wear a cute maternity swimsuit. Luckily, my co-worker offered to give me her maternity swimsuit. (Who wants to buy a maternity swimsuit with the chance you might not be pregnant during the same time the next time around.) But the history of this swimsuit doesn't just go back to one co-worker. This swimsuit originated with another co-workers daughter. I love how maternity clothes are shared and borrowed. (I would like to thank my co-worker Cassie who has borrowed me several summer maternity outfits during my pregnancy.)

I know this isn't my most flattering picture, but I thought I would share.

I am Not a Shower Virgin Anymore

Last week my co-workers threw me a baby shower. We went to my favorite restaurant Olive Garden for some dinner and gift giving. I got a lot of cute girls outfits and other very essential baby supplies. When I got home I had to organize all my gifts and put them into her room. Of course I have already rearranged things 3 or 4 times, but who is counting. I think I am addicted to organizing her room.

Here is a picture of all my co-workers that joined in my first baby shower. It was fun to just get together outside of work. I want to thank everyone for coming and for all the beautiful gifts.

Here is our daughters first cell phone. What little girl doesn't need a cell phone and to grow up just like her mommy.

Three Hour Doctor's Visit
Last Friday I got to spend the morning at the doctor's office. It wasn't my first choice of things to do, but I had failed my one hour gestational diabetes test a few weeks earlier. So, I got the privilege of sharing my Friday morning in the waiting room. My morning started by drinking sugar... Okay it was in a orange favored drink... but it took some effort to get it down. (Plus you only have 5 minutes to drink it.) The three hours they took blood samples to be tested. I only ended up with a few bruises. I passed the time away with reading my book and writing Thank yous from my shower the night before.

During my three hour test I also had my 30 week doctor's appt. My new fear is pre-term labor, but my doctor assured me that I was not showing signs and that everything was closed and exactly where is should be. In the 2 weeks since my last doctor's appt. I didn't gain any weight, but I am measuring perfectly. I guess they look at your overall weight gain more than the weight you gain between appointments.

Monday my nurse called to tell me that my tests came back normal and that I was not showing signs of gestational diabetes.

A Week in Review

A Big Purchase

This weekend Nate and I decided we couldn't pass up a great deal on a new boat. Friday after work Nate called me to come look at a new boat. By the time we left the marine store we had put down $500 and started the paperwork to purchase a new 2007 Stingray 195LX. The next morning they called telling us that we qualified. Within minutes Nate was in the truck ready to go. A few hours after that we were out on Christmas Lake enjoying the water on the hottest day of the year. Sunday we took our friends Jeff and Kailey out on Lake Minnetonka. We spend the day cruising around the lake and looking at houses and swimming in different bays. After a few hours we noticed some dark clouds coming, so we headed back to the launch. The moment we pulled the boat out of the lake the wind picked up and it started to rain.

Last night Nate and I took my Uncle Jim out on Lake Waconia. We were able to put on a few more hours so that we can now official pull skiers, wakeboarders, and tubers. Next summer we will be purchasing some of the water toys.

Here is a picture of our boat right before we were going to launch on Lake Waconia.

Here I am relaxing the other night on Lake Waconia. Here is Nate and my Uncle Jim enjoying the nice weather on Lake Waconia. The lake was calm, so I didn't have to worry about being bounced around.

Ten Years Already?

This past Saturday Nate and I went to my 10 year high school reunion. I can't believe that I graduated high school 10 years ago. Where did the time go? I saw a lot of old friends that I had lost touch with over the past few years. Of course after we left I kept thinking of people I wish would have come. Everyone kept telling me that after high school time flies by. They were not joking.

Camping

Camping

A few weeks ago Nate and I went camping with Nate's family. We spent the weekend near Mille Lacs at a beautiful campground. The weather was beautiful... warm sunny days and cool evenings. It was so nice to be away from home and spending time with family.

Cody loved being outside the whole weekend. He did get tired of being tied up, but he did get plenty of walks and playing catch. He also enjoyed being around Hailey who played catch with him.

The campground we stayed at had several activities for kids. Here is Hailey and Darren enjoying the train ride around the campground. Mel, Mandi, and I also enjoyed the train ride. The only problem was that Hailey kept asking about the train. We had to keep telling her that the train was sleeping.

There was also a 4th of July parade around the campground. Auntie Mel did a wonderful job decorating Hailey's trike. She made it almost all the way around the campground before she was ready to be done.

Weekly Update

Doctor's Appointment - 28 weeks or 7 Months

Wow, I can't believe I only have 3 more months until our little one arrives. Today was my monthly doctor's appointment. My previous post noted that I didn't gain any weight, but things have changed. In one week I have gained 4 lbs. What???? There went my joys of no weight gain. My doctor reassures me that my overall 17 lbs. weight gain is just right. Not only did I gain 4 lbs. but I got a shot in my butt. The joys of having RH Negative blood.

The big news is that I failed my one hour gestational diabetes test. Yes, I had to drink some orange pop tasting sugar, wait one hour, and than get my blood drawn. Unfortunately, I didn't pass meaning I get to spend 3 hours in the doctor's office. That is right three hours. I plan on getting some reading done. My doctor reassured me that 25% don't pass the one hour test pass the 3 hour test. So, I am keeping my fingers crossed that I will pass the 3 hour test.

Here are a few pictures from Kristin's Birthday party last weekend. I hope you enjoy my rounded figure.

Sometimes I forget that my front side clearance has changed. A few times I have closed the car door and my stomach got in the way. The other day my co-workers and I went to lunch. We sat outside on the patio at a high top table. I was unable to move my chair forward while sitting, so my co-worker Cassie tried to help. With no success, I just sat at the edge of the chair so I could reach the table.Here is a picture of Jessa, Kristin, and I at Kristin's house for her birthday dinner.

Dumb Dog Award

I am giving this award to our dog Cody. I would like to first note that Cody is scared to jump into and out of the back of Nate's truck. Nate has to lift him up into the bed of the truck. We have tried everything so he does it himself and nothing seems to work. The other day Nate and I decide to take him to the lake for some swimming. (Nate has previously taken Cody to the lake the last several days.) Anyway, as we are just about to pull into the launch area, Cody decides to jump over the side of the truck (while in motion). Nate watches him do a complete somersault and land on his head. In shock he just lays there until Nate jumps out of the truck. Cody gets up and is ready to play catch in the water. After a few times in the water I notice that he has some road rash on his head. The good news is that he is okay, but now he gets tied up when he rides in the back.

A Full Week of Events

Happy Anniversary turns into spilled milk...
Sunday was Nate and I's two year anniversary. I can't believe that it has been 2 years. I feel like he has been a part of my life forever. I am so blessed to have him in my life. He has been patient and understanding as I work through all my drama. My therapist tells me that I have improved greatly. Enough about my other life long drama and back to the present...

Last night I got home from Diane's Bridal Shower and sitting on top of the stairs is a new carpet cleaner. You are probably thinking... What a nice anniversary gift? It is, because we do have a dog that likes to pee on our visitors and a little one on the way. Now we can clean the carpets whenever we want to... the freedom this provides is awesome. Anyway, last night we make steak, corn, and rolls for dinner. Our routine is just to sit by the TV and eat dinner. I have now resorted to using a TV tray because I am not as bendable as before. As I set my dinner and full glass of milk on the tray - I try to squeeze in-between the couch and the TV tray... Of course my belly gets in the way and I bump the TV Tray. My entire glass of milk (in slow motion of course) spills everywhere. It spilled on the dog, Nate, the couch, the coffee table, myself, and the carpet... So, after some quick cleanup with the help of Cody and Thomas we finish dinner and than try out our new carpet cleaner. My question is: Did this happen because we just got the carpet cleaner? or would it have happened without it?

Another House Guest
It's summer again and Uncle Jim has moved back in. He came on Wednesday and moved into the guest bedroom downstairs. Thomas is very happy to have someone that doesn't care if he sleeps on the bed. He plans on staying for a few months to visit his mom (my grandma) and get away from the Florida heat and humidity.

Doctor's Appointment
Last week I went to the doctor to have some things looked at that were bugging me. The good news is that I am measuring at 27 weeks and I haven't gained any weight in the last 3 weeks. I know this will change, but hopefully this will make it easier to lose the weight after she is born. I also was seen by a nurse midwife because my doctor was out of town. (I guess doctor's like to work the first few days of the week and than take the rest of the week off in the summer. That would be really nice.) Our little daughter has been very active the last few weeks. I worry when I don't feel her moving around. Nate just tells me that she is sleeping. It sure is strange to look at my stomach and seeing it moving. Is there an alien in there? Plus my belly button is starting pop... Does that mean she's done cooking? My 7 month appointment is this Thursday... Stayed tuned for an update.

On a side note: I am becoming an expert at peeing in a cup and I am very confident to carry it out of the bathroom and across the hall to the lab.

A Montage of Events

Wow, it's been a few weeks since I have posted a blog. I need to start getting better at this. I thought I would share a few stories and events that have happened over the past few weeks...

Memorial Weekend!

Nate's parents, sister Mandi, and her kids Hailey and Darren came to visit Memorial weekend. We painted the babies room, had Nate's extended family over for a BBQ, and relaxed. Below is a picture of Nate and our Godchild (nephew) Darren.

The Joys of Pregnancy

First let me tell you that being Pregnant makes you do strange things. I find myself more emotionally connected to TV, people, and pretty much everything else. Besides the nauseous feeling I had the first 3 months... my second biggest complaint is that my contacts don't work anymore. I have been forced to wear my glasses... I feel like a little school girl. I can't wear my sunglasses outside the car. (Here is my secret... I wear my sunglasses over my glasses while driving.)

I also want to share with you how irrational I was this past Sunday. Nate and I decided to go visit his friends Justin and Amy. On our way to their house we decided we wanted to stop and get something to eat. I wanted BREAKFAST. The closest restaurant serving breakfast was Perkins in Elk River. Of course it is about 11 am on Sunday, so the wait for a table was ridiculous. So, Nate decided he didn't want to wait... and I just agreed. On our way out - Nate said he would wait in line if that was what I really wanted. Of course, it was too late for me and I just said "No!" Of course we missed the McDonald's breakfast by 5 minutes... so I started crying. Good thing Nate just held my hand, while my irrational thoughts passed. In the end, I just got something at the gas station while Nate had McDonald's.

Our Crazy Kitty Thomas

I have always known that Thomas loves hair binders. I used to find them all over the house. If I left one on the bathroom counter I would always find them either in the toilet or just laying around the house. The other night I put my hair in a ponytail. As I was sitting on the couch I felt something pulling on my hair. I looked behind me and Thomas was trying to pull the hair binder out of my hair. Of course, Nate and I had to see if he could actual get it out. In about 30 seconds he had it out of my hair and was playing with it on the couch.

The Pictures You All Have Been Waiting For....

I have finally taken some side shots of my growing belly. It does take some time to get used to the fact that I am gaining weight. This is the heaviest I have ever been. Of course I have only gained 7 pounds, but it still takes some getting used to. Too bad the baby doesn't weight 7 lbs right now. (Reality - the baby ways around 12 oz.) Ugh!!! Maybe it is in my boobs. :) (For those who care... Yes my boobs have gotten bigger.) FINALLY!!!!!!!!!!!! Too bad they go back to normal after the baby is born.

So here it is...

The next picture won't surprise you if you know Nate. Saturday night I walked into the babies room to find the following...

I am not sure if this is Nate's way of telling me that he wants to name our little girl "Gunnarette", but for now this is our new baby girl. As you can see Thomas is also enjoying the new furniture in the babies room. Nate found this crib and a matching dresser/changing table at a garage sale. It is perfect.

A Montage of Events

I thought I would combine several different events and pictures of things that have gone on these past few weeks. So, sit back and enjoy...

A few weeks ago Nate and I became Godparents to Darren (Nate's sisters son.) He was a good boy until we put him in-front of everyone. Nate did a good job trying to keep him occupied while he cried and spit up all over Nate's shoe and the floor. I think he just wanted to be heard. He looked so handsome in his white tux.

This past Saturday I had several of my friends over for my annual Birthday BBQ Bonfire Bash. Unfortunately we weren't able to have a bonfire because of the wind, but we stayed inside and made our own fun. We were also able to watch the Supercross race that was live from Vegas.

Here is a picture of my good friend Heidi that came to my party on Saturday. I hadn't seen her for over 2 years. We pulled out the old pictures and laughed at ourselves. Maybe one day I will post a few old pictures of myself for your viewing pleasure.

By the end of the night Cody was exhausted and so was my friend Jessa. So they found a comfy spot on the floor to rest.

It's a Girl

The news is out... We are having a little girl. The ultrasound showed that everything was normal.

A Taste for Cravings...

I thought all of you would like to know that I had my first real taste of a craving I couldn't resist or ignore. On my way home from work I started craving a cheeseburger on the grill. By the time I got home Nate called to tell me he would be later than he thought. This frustrated me because I really wanted that cheeseburger. I wasn't going to cook 3 burgers to only eat one. So, I only had one option. (The one drawback about living in Mayer is you have to drive at least 15 minutes to any fast food restaurant.) When your pregnant your cravings don't have patience. So, I got back in my car and drove to Dairy Queen for a cheeseburger, fries, and a chocolate dipped strawberry blizzard. All I can say is that it was exactly what I wanted and needed.

Happy Birthday

Of course my birthday was a few days ago, but I thought I would post a few pictures from our dinner. Nate and I met several of our friends at Benihana's (my new favorite restaurant) for dinner Tuesday night. We had a great time. Don't forget that the big party is next Saturday, May 5th at our house. The festivities start around 7pm. (I am hoping that I don't have to take any trips to Waconia before the party. - Last year Nate needed a few stitches.) My sister and her boyfriend Randy, Kristin and her husband Nathan, and Jessa came to celebrate with me.
I am hoping that I can get some sun this weekend. Good thing my camera has this skin darkening feature that doesn't make me look so washed out.

Doctor's Appointment

Monday Nate came with me to our 4 month appointment. Only 6 more months to go. That seems like so far away. This doctor's visit wasn't as eventful as my last one, but Nate did get to hear the heartbeat for the first time. Nate thinks we are having a boy and I think we are having a girl. We will find out on April 30th who is right.

Now it is your time to put in your guess. Here are a few facts to help you make your decision. 1. The last heart beat measurement was 150 beats/minute. 2. I have not had morning sickness. I hope those help you make an informed decision. So, all you have to do is post a comment and make sure to write your name, so I can keep tally. Good Luck!!

A Quick Trip

Most of you know that last Friday I flew down to Dallas to meet Nate. He picked me up at the airport and we spent the day site seeing. It was so nice to actually be next to him instead of talking to him on the phone. Friday it rained, but when we woke up on Saturday it was sunny and 70 degrees out.

Saturday we went to the Supercross race at the Texas Stadium. We met up with our friend Jason. After the race we started driving home. It took us 14 and a half hours to drive from Dallas to Minneapolis. Of course I slept for most of the drive. I did let Nate sleep for a few hours, so I drove from Kansas City to Des Moines.

All I can say is that it is so nice to have Nate home. FYI: He loves how the house looks with the walls painted.

Final Painting Pictures

Here are the pictures I took the next day. I am so excited for Nate to come home and see what it looks like in person. Now, I just love to sit in the living room and look at the walls. The upstairs has a whole new feel. I am very happy with the results. I hope you enjoy it too.

We still need to put on a few more coats on the red wall, but it will do for a few more months. Now, all I have to do is put up all my pictures. I am hoping that Nate and I can do that in a few weeks.

The red wraps into the kitchen above the cabinets. I still have to get used to how much warmer the rooms look in the evening. I feel more at home now that we don't have hospital walls.

We still need to replace the light in the entryway. I found one that I like, so I am hoping Nate will like it too!
Here is a picture of the bathroom. It was hard to take a nice picture, so you will just have to come over and see it in person. All I have to find is a new shower curtain.

Painting Party

First I would like to thank everyone that helped this past weekend. Kristin, Diane, Nathan, Jessa, Lindsey, Katie, Lee, and of course my Papa. Without these people I would still be painting. Here are some pictures. They say a picture is worth 1,000 words.

Here is Lee, Nathan, and the top of my dad's head painting the highest part of the entry way. I am so thankful we had these guys to do the tricky high parts.

Kristin and Jessa braved the hot bathroom. Kristin helped me pick out all the colors for this big painting adventure.
Katie and Diane spent most of the day painting all the beige. They wouldn't let me do too much work, so I helped with the trim and pointed out spots they missed.

My dad used his new "Little Giant" ladder that really helped in the hard to reach places. Diane did a great job holding the ladder and making sure he didn't fall.

Silly Kitty

This past weekend I undertook a big project. I decided to paint the entire upstairs before Nate comes home. Of course I had my family and friends to help. I will blog about that experience later and add some pictures. Saturday morning I started taking off all the light switch covers and air vents so we could start painting once everyone arrived. In our hallway we have a cold air exchange vent that is pretty large. As I was taking it off Thomas was very interested in this new dark tunnel. I told him to stay out while I went to look for something to put over the hole. As I went into the kitchen I started to hear this weird thumping noise. My first thought was Thomas. So, I started calling him and looking at the vent hole in the wall. Sure enough, Thomas pokes his head out and looks at me. I told him to get out, so he slowly crawled out of the hole. I was scared, upset, and happy that he didn't get stuck in the venting under the floor. I quickly found something to block the hole and locked Thomas downstairs for the rest of the day.

A Little Surprise

I thought I would let everyone know that we had a little scare a few nights ago. I started bleeding 2 nights ago, so the doctor recommended that I have an ultrasound. Yesterday I went in for a ultra sound and the good news is that everything looks good. We are not sure where the bleeding came from, but we have ruled out the bleeding is coming from the baby. I want to thank everyone who has been praying for us these past few days. It has been scary, but I am doing well today after a good nights sleep. The good news is that we have our first pictures of our baby earlier than we thought.

The baby is exactly measuring at 12 1/2 weeks and everything looks wonderful. It was really amazing to watch our baby moving and kicking around on the monitor.

I will try to post the pictures this weekend.

Music To My Ears

Today was my 12 week appointment. (That is 3 months in none pregnant terms.) I finally understand why everyone who is pregnant or with a pregnant person relates to how far they are in weeks. I hated that because I wanted to know months. How close are you to 9 months? That made more sense to me. Now, I understand that every week is almost like a victory to us pregnant women. I can't wait until I am 13 weeks or 20 weeks, etc...

I hope that you find my blog from here on out a place that you can find out what is happening in my life. I promise I won't talk about my pregnancy the whole time, but at least know that here is where you can find out what is going on. After the baby is born you will be able to find fun stories and pictures.

Okay - back to my original blog topic. (Music to my ears.) First and foremost sometimes I wish I was a guy. Why? Try peeing into a cup and not getting it on your fingers. Guys - they just aim and they are done. No wet hands and a full cup. Me on the other hand. I just pray that I have enough pee that will end up in the cup. Before I had to pee in a cup once a year. Now, it is every appointment. I hope I am a pro at the end of this pregnancy. I was going to leave out this part of the story, but my co-worker thought it would be good to put it in. So, here is the details of my peeing in a cup experience. I started the procedure and had to stop to check to make sure that the pee was actually going in the cup. (It was!!!) So, I guessed what would be a good amount, but not too much to give as a sample. When I was done I noticed that a piece of Cody's hair got into the sample. I have two options. 1. Leave the dog hair for the nurse and see her reaction. (She might think I am giving birth to a dog.) 2. Try to fish the hair out of the sample with my fingers. Of course I chose option 2.

I am pretty sure every woman worries about their unborn baby. I was kind of nervous right before my appointment. (The nurse had to tell me to relax because my blood pressure was 150/?, but than I relaxed it was 120/78.) It didn't help that I had a dream we couldn't find the heartbeat. So, it was time to find it. After what seemed like forever we found the heartbeat. Strongly beating away at about 160 beats/minute. (Now some may argue that a girl has a faster heart beat. We will just have to wait and see.)

Snowed In!!!

Round two of our big snow started early on Thursday. Roads were fine on the way to work, but got considerably worse as the day went on. Luckily my work closed at noon so I was able to make it home before the big stuff hit. After a few hours of constant snow (approx. 1/2 inch per hour) I decided to snow blow the driveway. I knew I had to stay on top of this snow or it would be impossible for me to after the snow had stopped. Let's just say that my snow blowing experience Thursday night was very upsetting. I ended up coming inside in tears and calling Nate. I pretty much told him that he is never leaving in the winter again. (He of course gave me some emotional support and after a few minutes I was better.)

Friday morning at about 6am. I look out the window just as the snow plow is pushing 4 feet of snow into my driveway to clear the road. At this point all the news channels are urging people to stay home if they can. After some careful consideration and a few conversations with my co-workers. I decide it is not worth it to go to work. At the same time I am thinking I do not want to snow blow the driveway after last nights experience. So, I call Nate. He calls a few people, but no one is able to come out and help. (Figures!?!) Of course I don't like asking for help, so I call my dad. He of course says "Yes" and comes over after he is done working. Let's just say that it took us 2 hours to clear the driveway and sidewalk. Meanwhile Cody is loving all the snow and keeps wanting me to throw this stick he found buried in the snow. I think the snow stopped coming down around 7 pm on Friday.

Saturday was my first day out of the house. It was nice to see the sun and admire the mounds of snow that encompass the house.


Here is a picture of where my dad snow blowed. He had to stop where the plow had pushed the snow in our driveway. We had to take a different approach on the end of the driveway.

Here is a picture of Cody sitting on top of one of snow mounds at the end of our driveway. Just so you know I am standing on the driveway and Cody is as at eye level. That is how high the snow pile is.

Here is a picture of our house with big pile of snow in front of it. I think of it as our own natural fence or barrier from intruders. Just a note - Our house does sit a little lower than the street, but you get the point.

Thank Goodness for Snow Blowers

My weekend started out on Friday with a trip to the Grocery Store. I wanted to stock up just in case I decided to spend the weekend at home. A pregnant woman can never be too prepared. I woke up on Saturday morning with iced up windows, but no snow! As the day continued the snow came and stayed until Sunday morning. Good thing my dad came out to start getting the walls ready to paint and he took me out for dinner. Otherwise, I would have stayed in the house all weekend. Here are some pictures of what I found when I opened the garage door this morning.

I am so thankful that my dad donated his old snow blower to Nate and I. I don't know what I would have done if we did not have the snow blower. Cody spent most of the morning running around in the snow. He had so much fun it was hard to get him back in the house.

After I got done with the entire driveway the snowplow came through again. (Which I knew would happen.) So, after a quick nap. (Okay 2 hours) I went out and cleaned up the end of the driveway and the mail boxes.

This picture was taken the first time I did the driveway. It took awhile to get the end of the driveway cleared from the snowplow.

A Friendly Officer (Deputy)

Most of you know that Nate and I our expecting our first baby in September. We found out about this miracle and now are looking forward to our growing family. Yes, this was surprising news, but we know that it is in God's hands. Thank you everyone who has supported us through this miracle.

This past Friday I went to Mora to visit Nate's family for the weekend. On my way up North I got pulled over. Here is the dialog between myself and the officer.

As I am handing the deputy my drivers license and insurance....
"This is my first time being pulled over." - Nikki
"Do you know why I pulled you over?" - Deputy
"Probably speeding..."
"Do you know how fast you were going?"
"I have no idea..." - Which was a true statement.
"You were going 51 mph. - Do you know what the speed limit is here?"
"30-35 mph??"
"35 mph"
*I am thinking crap. That is 16 over!!!
"Where are going?"
"Mora, to my boyfriends parents house. We just found out we are pregnant."
"I will be right back..."
*Another thing to note is that Cody is in the back seat growling at the deputy.
* I kept thinking... I hope he gives me a break on the ticket because this is the first time I have ever been pulled in the 12 years I have been driving.
*After about 5 minutes he comes back to the car. (Nothing in his hand except my license.)
"So, you just found out your pregnant?"
"Yes!"
"Now you have the 2 of you to think about. Make sure you pay attention and watch your speed and tell everyone you know that we are sitting her clocking people."
"Thank you!"

And than I continued my way to Mora. I guess being pregnant saved me several hundred dollars.

Happy Valentine's Day

First - I would like to apologize that I have not updated my blog in almost a month. Life has been busy and I just haven't had anything really exciting happen leaving me no material to work with for my blog.

Most of you know that Nate is out of town until April or so. Yesterday afternoon he calls me all upset because he has tried all day to have flowers delivered to my work on valentine's day. Each place he called was either too expensive to deliver or he couldn't get through. (I guess he had called my neighbor 6 times trying to figure it out.) After some quick discussion I told him that he didn't have to get me flowers and that his attempt was enough for me.

Later that night my doorbell rang and my neighbor had a dozen roses for me from Nate. He had called her and asked if she could pick up some flowers and bring them to me. It was a nice surprise.

A Six Hour Cruise

This past Sunday I woke up in the beautiful furnishing of the Perham Super 8 motel. After some continental breakfast Anne and I went to the country club in Perham to celebrate my Grandma's 86th Birthday. We had a nice brunch, some picture taking and visiting. After about an hour I had to make the long journey back to the cities to pick up Nate at the airport. Yes, Nate is home. Most of you know that Texas (along with several other states) has been dealing with some ice. So, Nate decided to leave before the storm to come home. It took me a little over 3 hours to make it to the airport, but his plane was delayed an hour. That being said, I spent another hour in the car at a hotel parking lot waiting for his phone call. Don't worry - I stayed occupied by talking on the phone. Good thing I have unlimited minutes on the weekends. In a nut shell - I left Perham at 1:00 in the afternoon and didn't get home until after 6:00pm.

It is so nice to have Nate home. My uncle and his girlfriend Kathy have also been staying here for a few days. I never seem to get away from a full house. I really enjoy the company. My uncle is leaving Thursday for the trip back to Florida and Nate is not sure when he will be leaving to go back to Texas. I am not looking forward to saying goodbye again.

Grandma is 86

This past weekend my sister, dad, and I made the trip to Perham, MN. We drove up on Saturday and checked into the luxurious motel. We visited for a few hours at my aunt and uncles before heading over to see Grandma. She moved to a senior home in Perham last May and she tells that she enjoys living in a small town. Sometimes it can be a little difficult to talk with her because she has dementia. Here is a picture of my grandma, Anne and I at the country club where we had a nice brunch.

I had to leave a little early from the celebration because Nate was flying into the Minneapolis later on Sunday afternoon.

A Trip to Texas

Wow, I can't believe that it is 2007 already. Last week my sister and I took a trip down south to visit my mom. I hadn't seen her for over a year, so the trip was greatly needed. I want to first mention that Nate has taught me how to pack for a trip. Granted he wasn't here when I was packing, but he would have been proud. Granted I needed another bag for the way home, but that is what happens when you go shopping after Christmas. There are sales all over the place.

I want to first thank my Auntie Marsha. She spoiled us buy treating us to many meals. I can't say that we went hungry when we were there. Anne and I decided that we needed to fast for about a week for the amount of food we ate in the 5 days we were there. I also want to thank my mom too. She was a great host and I wish she lived closer so I could see her more.

We spent most of our trip in my mom's town. The interesting thing about where she lives is that it is in a dry county. This means that only private clubs can sell alcohol. This includes bars. So, I had the privalage of joining a few clubs while we were down there. During one our evening outings my mom and aunt decided that they were going to sing karaoke. Anne and I refused to take part in this event, but we were able to get it on video.

Our last night the four of us traveled to my cousin Heather's house in south Houston. We spent the evening at the Kehma Boardwalk where we ate at Ichibon's (Japanese Steak House). It was so good, but I needed to be carried home because I ate too much.