Hudson's 8 months old!!

Please don't mind the half destroyed/work in progress kitchen!

Growth: Hudson is 23 pounds. I'm not sure how tall (long) he is, but I know he's growing. His pants are starting to become short!
Health: H has officially had (and has) his first ear infection. Last month, he had a cold and was cutting teeth. He was "better" for about a week. After that, he had cold symptoms, again. He's also teething, again (4 teeth now!). However, during Thanksgiving, while we were in Michigan, he was a little fussier than normal and his left eye was a little swollen, red, and weepy. I took him into the doctor and he has an ear infection. Poor guy. I really don't like putting my kids on antibiotics, but we decided to because he has been fighting this "cold/infection" for about a month. So far he hasn't had too many bad side effects, and he seems to be feeling better.
Eating/Sleeping: Hudson usually wakes up around 7:45 and I nurse him at around 8. I, then, give him cereal at around 9. I put him down for a nap after that (around 9:30). He usually sleeps until around 11:30 (or 12). I nurse him and we all play. I usually give him lunch at around 1 or 1:30. I nurse him, again, and then put him down for his afternoon nap (at around 2). Lately, he's been sleeping a full 3 hours in the afternoon. He wakes up around 5. I nurse him and then we eat dinner. He sits with us and we feed him dinner when we're done. We play until around 7:30. I nurse him and he's in bed by 7:45. Once he is done fighting this ear infection (and doesn't need the extra fluids), I'm going to take out one of his feedings, I think. He's not nursing as long and doesn't seem as interested in nursing. However, we're going to go as long as we can (up to a year!). I really don't want to have to wean him onto formula and then milk this late in the game. We'll see what happens!
As far as solid foods go... he's had squash, peas, avocado, oatmeal, sweet potatoes, bananas, pears and apples. We tried some of those rice cup things (I don't remember what they're called), but he just tried to shove the whole thing in his mouth. The only "finger foods" he's had are little pieces of banana. It is hilarious watching him try to do that, though. It takes him five minutes to get even one piece in his mouth! Poor guy! He is patient, though. I've debated making my own baby food. However, I want to make sure he really likes the different foods before I make it. I froze pieces of avocado, and apparently he doesn't like avocado, now. His favorite is banana.
Personality: Hudson is still so pleasant. You look at him, and he laughs. So cute! He loves his sister and definitely has her flare for drama, as well. You know exactly how he feels by the expression on his face. The only times that he is fussy is when he's cutting a tooth (he's now on tooth number 5!), tired or hungry. He's a smiley goof ball, and we love him so much!
Other Random Things:

I know that this picture is  the worst quality, but I just love his smile!

• He's pretty much wearing 9-12 month clothes. 
• We made the switch to size 2 2-steps (with large inserts). He, also, wears large AIOs and size 4 disposables.
• He just started signing "more please". It's not very consistent, but we're pretty sure he knows what it means. He, also, just started clapping... so cute.
• He's still not crawling, but his very good at sitting up. He can't go from lying to sitting, but he's getting better at going from sitting to his tummy without the awkward fall.
• The other day, he started fussing when T wouldn't give him the toy she was playing with. This is new. He used to not care if she didn't share or took toys away from him. However, he's definitely becoming more possessive. It's a rude awakening for T, but interesting to watch them interact. :)
• He just started figuring out that when he drops something, it's gone. He looks for it, too. It's very cute.

Every stage has been so awesome, but this age (8 months) has been so much fun! H is definitely developing a personality and it's so great to see him do/learn new things every day! We're so grateful that he is a part of our family. We are blessed!

Hudson's 7 months old!!

Growth: Hudson weighs 22 lbs and 3 oz. He is 27 and 3/4 inches long.
Health: H is struggling with a cold, right now... runny/stuffy nose and a little cough. However, he is also cutting his first tooth, so it could be that...? Either way, he is still a pleasant and happy little (ok, not that little) one!
Eating/Sleeping: Hudson is still on the same schedule, however, we've added some solids to his eating schedule! He usually has "lunch" around 12:30 and "dinner" right after we eat (around 6). He's had oatmeal, avocado, pears, and bananas. So far, he's loved them all! However, it took him a few times to really like pears... he, literally, gagged the first time we fed it to him... haha! I still nurse him 5 times a day, but I'll probably cut out a feeding in the next few weeks. Since he's started solids, he doesn't nurse as long during the day.
He still takes 2 naps. His morning nap is usually 1.5 hours to 2 hours long. His afternoon nap is usually 2 to 2.5 hours long. He sleeps 12 hours at night.
Personality: I'm starting to realize how social H really is. I think I noticed it this past weekend at the youth retreat we went on. We brought H with us (mostly because I still nurse him) and my mom stayed with T. He just loved all the students, and he especially loved the mall! As soon as we walked in, he didn't stop "talking". It was so cute! A man after my own heart. :)
He still doesn't fuss too much... unless he's tired or hungry. I can't believe how well he adapted, this past weekend... eating at different times, sleeping at different times (and in different places), and being in the car a lot. However, he does really thrive on routine... he takes after his mother. :)
He is in love with his sister and loves to be tickled by and play with her!
He hasn't gotten into the phase of "stranger anxiety", yet, but I feel like that is coming right around the corner.
Other Random Things:

• He's wearing 6-9 month clothes. However, his pants are starting to become a little short... that never happened with T!
• He's wearing size medium and large AIO diapers and size 1 2 steps. However, I think I might switch him to size 2, soon. Also, he's wearing size 4 in disposable diapers.
• A few days ago, we switched him to his new carseat... a convertible as opposed to the infant one.
• He's getting better at sitting up. However, he will still fall backwards (into our laps if we're sitting behind him) and laugh. He thinks it's a game.
• He's getting really good at playing peek a boo.
• He's not crawling, yet, be he rolls to where he needs to go.

First youth trip to Breakaway! Sleepy boy!

Hudson's 6 months old!!

Growth:(I'm not sure of the specifics but close to 21 pounds and somewhere around 27 inches long)
Health: Hudson is still very healthy. A few weeks ago, he had some constipation issues (he didn't poop for a few days), but it resolved itself and he has been super healthy ever since!
Eating/Sleeping: H is still on the same basic schedule. He wakes up/I feed him at 8:30am. He goes down for his morning nap around 10. He usually sleeps 1.5 to 2 hours. I feed him, he has some "Papa time" when B comes home from lunch. I feed him, again, at 1:30 and put him down for his afternoon nap. He and Tatum usually sleep at the same time for a few hours... I'm very blessed with that time to myself. He wakes up around 4 or 4:30. I feed him, and he's up until bedtime. I feed him at 7:15 and put him down for the night. On Sundays, it's a little different because of church and youth group. However, he sleeps at church, so that's very nice.
A week ago, we started cereal with him (his doctor told us to wait until 6 months because he's growing and sleeping well). We decided to start with oatmeal instead of rice. I read that rice cereal can cause constipation in some babies. Tatum has always had issues with that, so we decided just to skip it and go right to oatmeal. The following day, he had a little eczema on his cheeks (and they were a little pink). I don't know if it was an allergic reaction or just had to do with the weather changing (it's been a lot colder in the evenings). We took a break and gave him more today. We'll see what happens! He took it like a champ... this boy can eat! This past month, he has definitely been interesting in trying solids... staring at us while we eat, grabbing at our food, etc. I think he's glad that he can finally join us!
Personality: I think my favorite new thing he's doing is copying T's cries when she gets hurt or throws fits. As soon as she starts to cry, he immediately imitates her... like he's trying to steal her attention. It's hilarious! It is also hard for Tatum to not start laughing, as well. We end up all laughing together. I love it!
H is still super chill. As long as he isn't too tired or hungry, Hudson does not really fuss. It's actually kind of weird! We're definitely not used to that. As a matter of fact, one night while we were having small group at our house, he woke up and started crying about a half hour after I put him to bed. Benjamin and I just looked at each other like "what do we do?!". He never does that! It was kind of funny! It caught us off guard.
He pretty much lets anyone hold him, too. It's crazy how two totally different children can come from the same parents! It's fun to see how H's personality is so unique and different than T. We are blessed with both and are so thankful for them! 
Other random things:

• He's wearing mostly 6-9 month onsies, 9 month pants, and some 6 month onsies still fit. He's wearing size M and L (mostly because we have them... they are still too big) all in ones, and size 1 2-steps in cloth diapers. He's wearing size 3 disposable diapers (we know that because our washer broke, last weekend). 
• H still isn't rolling much from his tummy to his back. However, he always rolls from his back to tummy.
• He's been sleeping mostly on his side and tummy.
• Instead of his thumb, he's been sucking his 3rd and 4th fingers (just like his Papa used to do... cute!).
• H has been sitting pretty well! We don't leave him unattended (like we always sit behind him), but he'll sit and play for a few minutes without getting tired and falling. He grabs for toys in front of him, too. If he knows we're sitting behind him, though, he falls back on purpose and laughs... like he's teasing us. It's cute!

Hudson's 5 months old!!

Growth: He's 20 lbs, 10 oz. (according to our scale at home) and still about 26 inches long.
Health: H is still very healthy. He's a drooler, however, the doctor said she doesn't think he'll get teeth anytime soon. His head is still rounding out, too! Hopefully it will just "do it's thing" and we won't have to do anything.
Eating/Sleeping: H still has the same schedule (ish). He usually wakes up at around 8:30. I feed him at nine (after I change him, etc.). I put him down for a nap at 10ish. H wakes up at around 11:30. I feed him between then and noon. We play (and get to see Papa at lunch). I feed him, again, at 1:30ish and put him down for a nap, again. This time, he sleeps for at least 2.5 hours. I feed him at 4:30. We start his "bed time routine"... bath, feeding, etc. at around 7. He's in bed by 7:45 and sleeps all night!
Personality: It has been so fun watching Hudson's personality develop! He's starting to have favorite toys (he loves being in his "bouncer", his squeaky monkey, and his yellow chicken). He and T have started to play together, sometimes... it usually consists of T giving him things and then taking them away (we're working on that...). He's such a smiley boy. He smiles at everyone. He loves having books read to him, too, and being outside.
Other random things:

• He's still wearing 6-9 month clothes, size 1 2-steps and medium and large AIOs
• He finally started rolling a little more. I've only seen him roll from his tummy to his back, one time. He usually starts on his back. When I got him from his morning nap, this morning, he was on his tummy (I always put him on his back). I don't think he slept that way.
• H was dedicated at church on Sunday (August 26th). It was so awesome to see all the people who have committed to pray for us, encourage us, and challenge us as we raise our children, in Him. We're so thankful for our church family!

I'm three!!!

Growth: 30.6 pounds, 3 feet and 1/4 inch (yes, that quarter of an inch counts!)
Things I like to do: I love to play outside on my swing set, color, play with legos, play with and take care of my babies, read books, play with play doh, go to the park, tease Charlie, Hudson laugh and help take care of him, play games or watch shows (Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, Doc McStuffins, PBS kids) on the ipod, dance, sing, and play "come back here".... plus, now that I'm three, I get to chew gum!! :)

Favorite toys: Duplos (legos), any baby and her accessories, my stuffed animals, my kitchen, and her new baby carseat.
How I've been sleeping: I usually go to bed around 8:30 (it's summer!) and wake up around 7 or 7:30. I usually stay up until 1pm for my nap. I still fight my naps, sometimes.
Favorite foods: mac and cheese, pizza, cottage cheese, goldfish, green peppers, grapes, frozen peas, pears, apples, cheese, whales, granola bars, bananas, cheerios, and rice crispies. I love chocolate and ice cream too (Mommy says I get that from her)!
Favorite songs to sing: any worship song from church, songs from Sunday School (the BIBLE, Lord's Army, Jesus Loves Me, Father Abraham, etc.)
Milestones: As of 5 months ago, I now go potty on the toilet! I still wear diapers at nap and night time, but I get to wear big girl underwear, now! I can use the potty all by myself, but I sometimes struggle putting my pants back on (with buckles, buttons, or snaps). I can jump really well and can dribble and kick a ball. I can climb up and down the stairs pretty well, now. I'm speaking pretty clearly and love to use my imagination. I can climb in my car seat "all by myself" and put my shoes on. I can, also, trace letters on paper and draw lines and circles. Most of the time, I know what sounds the letters make. However, sometimes I forget!
Milestones I'm working on: I'm still learning how to get dressed, myself. I'm, also, still trying to understand the concept of time... I usually think that things happened "yesterday" if they happened in the past. Mommy's working with me on how to draw letters. It's really hard, but I'm trying. We're, also, working on puzzles and coloring in the lines.

My personality: I'm a very sensitive and cautious girl. I can really empathize with people. If I hear a little boy or girl crying, it makes me really sad. I feel things very deeply. I'm getting a lot better at handling my emotions (like sadness, anger, and frustration), but sometimes I don't act very nice when I'm feeling this way. Mommy and Papa are doing a better job at preparing me for uncomfortable situations. I like it when they tell me what we're doing before we do it. I feel more prepared, and it doesn't catch me off guard... I behave better, too, because I know what's going on! If I have a babysitter, go in nursery at church, or go to a friends' house, I sometimes get a little sad, but I try and remember that Mommy and Papa always come back. That helps me feel better!
I am an encourager and very sweet (that's what Mommy and Papa say). I like to say "good job, Mommy" when she exercises, give her a hug when she's sad, and give her kisses just because. I always ask Papa how his day was when he gets home from church. I'm, also, very silly too! I do silly dances and make funny faces to make people laugh.
I love my new baby brother. Mommy and Papa say that I am a good big sister. I love to play with H, and give him hugs and kisses. I'm usually very gentle with him, because he is still a baby. Mommy and Papa say that I'm growing up so fast!

Hudson's 4 Months Old!!

Growth: He's 19 pounds and 26 inches long. He's off the charts in weight (!!!) and at the 85 percentile for height. He is one big boy! I asked the doctor if she was concerned, at all, about his weight. She said that she wasn't because he's not moving too much, yet. Once he starts crawling around, he will start to thin out, a little. :)
Health: He's still very healthy. I was concerned about his "flat head". However, it has rounded out a little and the doctor wasn't concerned, at all.
Eating/Sleeping: His last feeding is usually around 7:15 pm. We put him to bed at 7:30 and he wakes up usually between 8 and 8:30am. B says that he sometimes hears him at 5:30ish (talking or making noises), but then he falls back to sleep. I never hear that... I'm such a heavy sleeper! I feed him around 8:30 or 9am. We play and then I put him down for a nap at around 10:30. He sleeps for about 1.5 hours. I feed him at noon. He's usually up for about two hours. I feed him at 2 and then put him down for another nap. He'll usually sleep until around 4:30ish (sometimes he'll wake up a little earlier, sometimes he'll sleep later). I feed him, again, and then we'll try and keep him up until 7:15 and the routine starts over. There are days when our schedule is a little different (like on Sundays and Wednesdays). On those days, he sometimes takes 3 naps, because he either wakes up earlier (I have to wake him) or stays up later.
Personality: H is still SO pleasant! It takes a lot for him to really get upset, and when he does get upset, it's not for very long. He can calm himself down pretty well. He still absolutely loves his sister. She can make him smile just by entering the room.
He's very social. He doesn't like being in a room all by himself. He'll let pretty much anyone old him, and he hasn't started "making strange" (I don't know if I'm using that phrase in the right context), yet. :)
He loves to laugh, loves music, Papa's beat-boxing, is super ticklish, and very talkative. He is such a gift!
Other random things:

• He's wearing 6 month + clothes. He's wearing medium AIOs and size 1 2-steps. I'm thinking of trying large AIOs at night.
• H started sleeping more than 12 hours at night on July 10th.
• H rolled over from his back to his front on August 3rd... he was at our friends' house (they were babysitting). We still have, yet, to see him do it... but we believe them! :)

Hudson's 3 Months Old!!

Growth: A whopping 16 lbs., 10.5 oz and 25 inches
Health: Still very healthy. I'm a little nervous about his flat head. Because he had to lie under the bili blanket for his first few weeks a life, and because of how much we have traveled, the poor guy's head is a little flat. I hope that tummy time, us holding him, and his Bumbo will help, though. We're keeping an eye on it, and hopefully it will correct, itself! :)
Eating/Sleeping: (Ok, this is mainly for myself... I like to look back at these things. Sorry about all the details! I know most people could care less!) :)
 Lately, I've been putting him down to bed at 8:30pm . He sleeps until 6ish. I feed him, again, and he sleeps until 9 or 9:30. When he wakes up, I feed him, we "play" and then he goes down for his morning nap around 10:30ish. He'll sleep for a little more than an hour. It's nice because during that time, T and I can play outside, or do another activity (just the two of us). He wakes up between 11:30 or 12. I get T some lunch and feed him. I put him down for another nap around 1:30pm. He usually sleeps for 2-2 1/2 hours. (It's nice that T and H nap at the same time.) I feed him when he wakes up. We have "playtime" and then our family eats dinner. During that time, he'll sometimes fall asleep in his rocking chair or I'll put him down for another nap. (I usually just follow his cues.) I feed him usually right after dinner (if he's not asleep), and the cycle starts, again, once 8:45 hits.
We went on vacation to Michigan a few weeks, ago. During that week, he woke up every 3 hours! We were super discouraged. However, once we came home, he went right back to his normal routine... thank the Lord! :)
Personality: H is still so delightful. He usually only gets fussy if he's tired... super easy to read. Once I put him down, he goes right to sleep... he loves his bed (takes after his mommy). He absolutely loves his sister, too. His face lights up and he laughs when she talks to him. She loves going with me to get him after his naps. He just beams when she sticks her head (and crazy hair) over the side of the crib. It's so awesome.
When he gets mad, he definitely lets us know, but is quick to give up... almost like it's not even worth getting upset (too much work). I wonder how that will translate as he gets older... :)
Other random things:

• He's wearing size 3-6 month onsies, 6 month shorts, and 6 month pjs. He wears size 3 disposable diapers at night, size 1 2-steps (unsnapped), and size medium AIOs.
• H "slept through the night" (8 hours) for the first time on June 3rd. He was 9 1/2 weeks old. 
• His hair has been falling out. :/ We knew this would happen, but it's still sad.
• He found his thumb last week... so cute! Because of that, he rarely uses a pacifier.

Hudson's 2 Months Old!!

Growth: 14lbs and 9oz.; 23 inches
Health: H has been pretty healthy, besides two colds, already. He's been (obviously) growing very well! And he hasn't had any other issues with his jaundice... such a blessing!
Eating: H has been eating about every 2 1/2 to 3 hours during the day and about every 4 hours at night. He's a good/efficient eater... done in usually 15 minutes. :) I only feed him on one side during each feeding.
Sleep: H usually takes 3 or 4 naps during the day... in his crib and also on our bed (I don't want him to wake up T during their afternoon naps... the girl needs her sleep!). We usually put him down at around 9pm for the night. He wakes up at around 1am, 4 or 5am, and then around 7 or 8am. He eats during all those times. However, I think he'll be able to drop the 4/5am feeding... he doesn't seem to be hungry at that time... just looking to be soothed. We moved him to his own room at exactly 2 months... everyone is benefiting (except T has woken up a couple of times since we moved him). :)
Personality: He is still super calm and relaxed. I don't know if he seems more like that because T was pretty much the opposite of that, but we'll take it! :) H usually only fusses when he's hungry or tired. He can, also, calm himself down pretty well. He's so pleasant and smiley!
Some random things:

• He's wearing 0-3 month (and some 3 month) onsies, shorts and pjs. He's wearing size 2 disposables (at night), size 0 2-steps and small AIO cloth diapers.
• He went on his first long road trip to Chicago, Michigan, and Canada on May 11th (and the rest of that week) for Aunt Jill's graduation and Grandma's funeral. He traveled very well! He, basically, slept the whole time.
• He was in the nursery for the first time on May 27th. He only fussed for a little bit, but then calmed down.

 

Hudson's 1 Month Old!!

I can't believe that Hudson is one month old, already! Here are some "fun" (ok, fun for me) facts about Hudson...
Growth: 10 lbs and 14 oz., 20 3/4 inches
Health: H and I had to stay in the hospital for a week after he was born because he had jaundice. He tested positive for Coombs (basically meaning we have different blood types... my blood type created antibodies that broke down some of H's red blood cells) and that can cause jaundice. He had to stay under an ultraviolet light while he wasn't eating (basically all the time). Once we got home, we were given a "bili blanket" for him to use, here at home. He's been off the blanket for about a week, and has been doing great! His numbers have been going down (which is a good thing!) even without the lights. He's been doing very well!
Eating: During his first week of life (in the hospital), I had to wake him up to eat every  2 1/2 - 3 hours. Because of his jaundice, he was very sleepy and took a while to eat. He struggled latching on, a little bit, as well because he was so sleepy all the time. It was a little frustrating. Because of the jaundice, also, he had some spitting up issues for about a week (his first week home). A few times a day, he was violently spit up (like not just a little down the chin) and I was super discouraged. The doctor kept telling me that the way his jaundice would get better was by him eating (and having a lot of poopy diapers). It took him about 2 1/2 weeks to get back to birth weight. However, now that he is no longer jaundice, he has been eating so well! He's very efficient, too... it usually takes him 15-30 minutes to eat and he eats usually every 2-2 1/2 hours during the day and every 3 hours at night.
Sleep: We're kind of trying to start the Baby Whisper's "EASY" schedule (eat, activity, sleep, and "your" time). I want H to be able to fall asleep after activity time as opposed to while he eats. It's been working pretty well, already. At night, however, I just try and feed him and put him back down to bed. I usually feed H at 10pm, and he'll usually wake up to eat every 3 hours (1am, 4am, 6(or7)am). He'll, then, usually sleep in the morning until about 8 or 9. He'll be a wake for an hour or two and then sleep again. He usually naps when T naps, as well... usually 1:30ish until 4ish in the afternoon (I can sometimes get a nap in, as well!). His "wake" time is usually in the evening, which is great! He's able to spend time with B when he comes home.
He is such a loud sleeper! We have him sleeping in our room, but it's sometimes hard to sleep with all of his groaning and grunting. We'll see how long he stays in our room... :)
Personality:  He is a very calm and relaxed baby! We noticed this during his first week, but we didn't know how much of that was due to him being jaundice. However, now that he is feeling better, he is still very chill! Every once and a while he'll have "fussy times" besides being hungry or tired, however he's usually very easy to calm down.
Other random things: 

• He's wearing size 0-3 month onesies, newborn pants, size 1 disposable diapers (we do those at night), and size 0 two-steps, and small AIO cloth diapers.
• He's still getting used to his baths... sometimes he screams, other times he is relaxed.
• Tatum LOVES him! She is a great helper... bringing me the boppy pillow, burp cloths, blankets, putting his pacifier in if it falls out, etc. She wants to be with him all the time and gives lots of kisses! She always says, "Hudson's SO cute!". It's awesome.
• We think he has a very strong head and neck. He always tries to look around while I'm burping him.
• He started making actual "coo" sounds at 3 weeks. We've been trying to get it on video, but he always stops as soon as we start recording. It is so cute, though!
• He had his first "baby sitter" on Saturday with T. A lady from our church (and her daughter) came over while B and I sang/played at a funeral. He did great! :)

Hudson's Birth Story...

On Wednesday, March 28th, I had my c-section scheduled for 7:15 in the morning. We probably got 4 or 5 hours of sleep the night before. I kept waking up thinking we'd sleep through the alarm! Haha... like we'd "miss" our son's birth. :) We left the house at 4:45am. My mom got to our house on Tuesday (the 27th) to stay with Tatum... a huge bonus of knowing your child's birthday ahead of time!
We got to the hospital at 5:30, and checked in. Everyone (except for me) was super relaxed about everything. I was so grateful for that, but it gave me time to actually think about everything that was happening. One benefit of having an emergency c-section, last time, was that everything happened so fast that I didn't have time to freak out about what was happening!
I had some blood work done, got my IV (everyone said that that would be the worst part... it was), and had to drink this nasty drink to prevent nausea during the surgery. After all of that, we had to wait about a half hour for the anesthesiologist to arrive. During that time, B encouraged me (I was really scared) and we prayed together. I was wheeled down the hall and walked into the OR. Once I got in, I sat on the narrowest table I've seen (ok, it probably seemed a lot smaller at the time because of my larger state). :) The anesthesiologist administered the spinal. He was very thorough and to the point... I was glad because he seemed very confident. He promised me that my whole body wouldn't go numb like last time. I felt better about the whole thing. Within probably 5 or 10 minutes, I went numb (such a weird feeling). My doctors arrived, and I heard Hudson's cry so much sooner than I thought. It was awesome! After a few minutes, they brought him over to me, and I was able to talk to him and give him tons of kisses (wow, I never cried at the time, but it's hitting me right now!). I was so blessed to have a nurse/friend who goes to our church in the OR right beside me! She talked to me the whole time to keep me distracted during the surgery, and held him next to me for a long time.
Hudson Marc de Waard was born at 7:38am weighing 8lbs. and 1oz. 

The nurses brought H back to our room where B was able to hold him, cuddle him, and bond with him. Once the doctors were done with me, I was wheeled back into our room where I saw H and B... so precious! Then I was able to have skin to skin time with him. I had the "shakes" pretty badly, so I didn't hold him for long (I was afraid I would drop him!). Throughout the day, I was super nauseous and got sick, a lot. :( I couldn't keep anything, down. However, I was so grateful that B was able to bond with him during that time.
H tested positive for Coombs (H and I have incompatible blood types) and because of the jaundice, we had to stay in the hospital for almost a week. H had to stay under a "sun" lamp when he wasn't eating. I was very discouraged (and a little scared), at first, because I didn't know what all of that meant. However, I was able to stay in the hospital with him, hold him while he ate, and he did awesome under the lights! He loved them!

He never really fussed, and usually just slept the whole time. There were so many blessings that God provided during that time in the hospital. We had family around to help with T, we had fabulous nurses and staff (going above and beyond to make sure we were so comfortable... even watching H while we went to dinner), I was able to really focus on "healing" while I was in the hospital for a week (if I would have been home, I know I would have probably pushed myself), and at times I felt like I was staying in a hotel! I'm so grateful for B... he has been Mr. Mom these past two weeks... laundry, cleaning (even T's poopy mess after she tried to change herself during her nap), dishes, errands, etc... all without complaining. I'm so thankful. Our families are incredible (driving back and forth to help), as well!
H had his two week appointment, yesterday. He had his bilirubin levels checked and because his numbers were up, he now has to lie in a "bili blanket", here at home. He seems to like it, and I'm so glad that he doesn't have to be readmitted to the hospital.
I'm so thankful for our family of four! H has been an amazing addition to our family. We're so grateful, and I'm so in love. :)

Almost 39 weeks! (1.5 more days until he's here!!)

I decided to do one more "pregnancy" entry. I have my scheduled c-section on Wednesday (I'll be 39 weeks).
Size of baby: Our baby is about 20 inches long and about 7.5 pounds (about the size of a mini watermelon)... we'll see on Wednesday, though! :)
Symptoms: My feet are HUGE! Last week, my feet (especially my right foot) started to swell. My right foot also hurts a little bit (I think from the swelling). However, because of the nice weather we have been having, I've been able to wear flip flops! I've just been feeling more and more uncomfortable, but I'm so grateful that T and I have been able to go on walks... I did not think that would happen in March! Besides having a get up and switch positions during the night, I've actually been sleeping relatively well.
Weight gain: 40 pounds. I gained 10 more pounds than I wanted to during this pregnancy, but it's ok.
Cravings: Pineapple!!! Yum! I've been averaging a few pineapples a week! They are so yummy... and they've been on sale at Walmart. :)

This past Saturday, some girls from church threw me a baby shower! It was such a blessing to us! We are so thankful for our church family and how supportive they are to us. It was fun celebrating baby d and it made it all the more real... we're having a boy!! :)

I can't believe that we're going to have our son in two days (Lord willing). I feel kind of spoiled knowing the day/time our son will get here. I've been "nesting" like crazy... cleaning the house, washing clothes and sheets, getting things organized, etc. I'm so thankful for my parents coming to stay with T, too. It's nice to know that she'll be taken care of (aka spoiled) :) while we're in the hospital.

I know that God is in control of everything that will happen on Wednesday. However, I'm still nervous. I'm the type of person who hates anything having to do with needles, blood, and hospitals. So, the idea of undergoing surgery (while being awake) is not super thrilling to me. The "nice" thing about having an emergency c-section with T was that everything happened so fast... I didn't have time to process it all. This time, I've had months to think/worry about it. I just have to have a healthy perspective, not let my fears control me, and give EVERYTHING over to Him. I know that the end result will be so worth it! :)

35 weeks (tomorrow)!

Size of baby: He is about 18 inches long and about 5 pounds (about the size of a butternut squash)!
Symptoms: I can definitely tell that I'm getting near the end. I've been feeling more "achy", lately... especially my back and ribs. I can no longer put my shoes on comfortably... the ONLY thing I miss about being pregnant in the summer is being able to wear flip flops. :) This week, I had to move my chair back in the car because my belly was bumping up against the steering wheel... haha!
The Braxton Hicks contractions have, also, increased a lot, lately. I've been getting anywhere from 5 to 10 a day. With T, I wasn't getting nearly that many. However, I also wasn't doing stairs, carrying and chasing a toddler, or "on the move" as much. My doctor says that as long as they don't intensify or stop when I lay down and drink water, they are completely fine... just super uncomfortable.
I've been really tired, again (almost like the first trimester). However, I think it's because I haven't been sleeping well.
Weight gain: At my last doctor's appointment (last week), I had gained 33 pounds. Honestly, I'm not super thrilled, but I'm also not surprised. I'm pretty much on the same weight gain track as I was with T, so I'm not worried. I wanted to stay closer to gaining 30 pounds, total, this time. Obviously that didn't happen, but I'm feeling ok about it.
Movement: He moves the most when I'm sitting or lying down (about ready to fall asleep). I've been trying to lie down (to read) about a half hour before I'm ready to fall asleep, so that he has time to "settle". If not, he keeps me awake.

We officially scheduled our cesarean section for March 28th (a month from today)! It's crazy to have an official birthday, already... unless he comes early, of course! I will be exactly 39 weeks at the time. At my last appointment, I started to get really nervous for the c-section. I mean I know that I've been in that situation before, but it was so fast, last time, that I had no time to think about what was actually happening. My doctor assured me, however, that this time will actually be better because things will be so much calmer. She also said that usually recovery is a lot quicker than the first time. Obviously, everyone is different, but that's the norm, apparently. I'll take it. The main thing I'm concerned about is recovering with a toddler at home. Last time, I was able to sleep, lie down, and rest. Besides nap time, I'm not sure if I'll be able to do that as often. My mom is going to stay with us a while and we will have more family coming, as well. That will be SO helpful. I'm so thankful for that!
I know that God will give me His grace and strength for that time. He always provides!

I'm so excited for our little one to arrive! I'm so excited to have a baby in the house, again. I can't imagine loving another child as much as I love T, but (according to what everyone says) I know that it happens! How exciting!!!

32 Weeks!

Size of baby: Our baby is about 16.7 inches and 3.8 pounds (about the size of a squash!).
Symptoms: I'm starting to have Braxton Hicks contractions a little more frequently, but it's usually after/during exercise (or going up and down stairs). I just rest and drink some water and they subside. It's not painful, just a little uncomfortable. My belly is starting to "get in the way", sometimes (when I play the piano, hold Tatum on my lap, empty the dishwasher, carry the laundry basket, paint my toe nails, etc.). However, sometimes it comes in handy. The other day, I dropped a spoon, and my belly "caught" it for me. :) It's been super uncomfortable bending over to pick things up, so that was so helpful!
I'm still wearing my wedding ring which I'm very excited about. I think this time, last pregnancy, my fingers were too swollen (plus, it was summer) to wear it. :( 
Maternity clothes: I hope that they'll all still fit me throughout the rest of my pregnancy! I feel like I've been growing so much and there's no more room!
Cravings: Lately,  I've been loving Stonyfield's french vanilla yogurt and blueberries! It's so weird because I couldn't even stand the thought of blueberries during the first and second trimesters.
Movement: I feel like this little guy has definitely flipped (head down). His kicking is a lot stronger at the top of my belly (like his feet?). It's so crazy feeling him "respond" to touch outside of the womb... he'll kick back if you touch him. He moves the most when I wake up on the morning and in the evening before I go to bed.

I'm 2 and a half...

... going on 16!!!
Things I like to do: I love to make soup in my little kitchen, play with my new doll house, read books, go on errands with Mommy (Walmart, the bank, and Fareway), play the piano, dance, color, have tea parties with Mommy, play "come back here" with Papa, play with play-doh,

help Mommy pick up things she drops (she's been doing that a lot, lately), play with Charlie, watch Elmo's World, Winnie the Pooh, Barney, and Funniest Home Videos.
Favorite toys: I love playing with my Elmo and Abby, my blue purse, my baby dolls, any little containers, Samantha, Legos, my memory game, and my little kitchen.
How I've been sleeping: I usually go to bed between 8 and 8:30. I wake up around 7:30 and play in my room until around 8. I usually nap from 1:30ish until around 3:30 or 4. I sometimes fight my nap, but I still definitely need a nap! I get grumpy when I don't nap. All in all, I'm a very good sleeper.
Favorite foods: Macaroni and cheese, frozen peas, green peppers, apples, pears, goldfish, cheerios, fig newtons, banana smoothies (that Papa makes for me), cottage cheese, whales, and chocolate.
Favorite songs to sing: Elmo's song, Jingle Bells, Twinkle Twinkle Little Star, ABCs, Jesus Loves Me, The B-I-B-L-E, Old McDonald, and Happy Birthday.
Milestones: I'm learning new words everyday... and surprising Mommy and Papa all the time with my new words. I can count to 20 and can recognize 0 - 9. I do a good job describing things (cold, hot, soft, long, etc.) and carrying on a short conversation. When I ask for things, I now say "please" and "thank you", consistently. I, also, use a spoon and fork and usually don't spill! I can identify my colors and most "normal" animals. I can skip, jump and throw a ball.
Milestones I'm working on: Mommy still helps me get dressed and undressed and brush my teeth. I don't think I'll be using the "big girl" potty anytime soon. I'm just not ready, yet. I love my cloth diapers! :) I share pretty well, but I still have to be reminded, sometimes. I'm working on coloring more in the lines, and drawing specific shapes (copying). Mommy and Papa are trying to teach me to say "I'm" instead of "my". I sometimes say "My going to get my toys" instead of "I'm going to get my toys".

My personality: My mommy and papa still think that I have a very sensitive heart. I care about how others are feeling and want to make them happy. However, I do have a bit of a temper, at times. I'm learning that when I become angry or frustrated, I can't throw things or hit. I have to sit in time out when I do that. I'm learning how to handle my emotions and be a good listener and obeyer. I make Mommy and Papa laugh, and I love people, animals, and my friends.

30 Weeks!

(Don't mind the piece of hair sticking out of my head! I noticed it when I uploaded the picture. Haha!)

Size of baby: Our little guy is about 15.2 inches long and almost 3 pounds (about the size of a cucumber). That's crazy! 

Symptoms: I'm starting to feel more uncomfortable while I'm sitting... I'm almost more comfortable sitting on the floor, sometimes. I get "winded" more often, as well (shortness of breath), when I'm sitting down. However, I'm so thankful that I've been relatively comfortable, thus far! My skin is starting to clear up which is awesome. Last trimester, it was awful... hormones! I'm definitely more clumsy. I drop things a lot easier and I run into things, a lot. However, I'm yet to slip on the ice (hopefully that will never happen!)!

Weight gain: Still 25 pounds. I didn't gain any weight between my last two appointments (between weeks 28 and 30). I have to admit that I was a little glad/relieved to see a break in the weight gain department. :) My doctor assured me, however, that there is no need to be concerned about not gaining weight. I'm doing just fine. ;)

Maternity clothes: Still wearing all maternity clothes (except for a few longer tank tops). Because my tummy is SO different than my last pregnancy, some of my maternity clothes are fitting differently, too. Certain shirts that I wore up until delivery are barely covering my belly! I'm caring so low and out in front (as opposed to higher and wider with T). It's so interesting. I have noticed, though, that they are making maternity shirts a lot longer, these days, which has been great for my situation. :)

Movement: He's still moving like crazy! The nurse said that he'll most likely be positioning himself out of "breech position" soon. Honestly, I think he might of switched, today. Ever since this morning, he's been moving non stop!

Because I had an emergency cesarean section with Tatum, B and I knew that we would have to make the decision, this time around, whether or not we wanted a repeat c section or a vbac (fortunately, my two doctors are willing to do either). After a lot of talking, praying, asking questions, and doing a ton of research, we feel completely at peace with having a repeat/planned c section. I know that it can be a very controversial subject (just like so many other parenting decisions), and initially I was kind of afraid of what other people would think about our decision. However, we really feel good about it, and are so supported by our friends and family.... which we are so thankful for. At my most recent appointment, I asked my doctor a ton of questions regarding the planned c section. She was so calm and helpful... it made me feel so at ease. (Even though I've done it before, going into surgery... awake!!!... still freaks me out). However, I know that the God of all comfort will get all the glory in this situation! All glory to Him! :)

28 Weeks (Hello, 3rd Trimester!)!

Size of baby: Our baby is about 14.8 inches long and weighs about 2.5 pounds (about the size of a Chinese cabbage... I have no idea what that is, but that's what babycenter.com said!). It's crazy that when T was born, she was only 5 inches longer than the size of our son right now!
Symptoms: I can't think of any "new" symptoms. I'm still feeling large and in charge. My belly is growing so much more "out" compared to my pregnancy with T. I carried her a lot higher and wider. If we wouldn't have found out the sex ahead of time, B and I would totally know that this one is a boy!
I'm still not sleeping very well. Once I fall asleep, I do fine. However, once a wake up, I'm up for good. It's takes me forever to get comfortable and go back to sleep.
Weight gain: 25 lbs. Normally, I wouldn't be too happy about this because I had a set amount of what I wanted to gain during this pregnancy. However, I have shifted my mindset away from numbers to focus on eating what's healthy and getting some exercise for our little boy. Plus, I've been benefiting, as well. I feel much better during this pregnancy because I've been exercising... go figure. ;)
Maternity clothes: I'm officially out of all of my non maternity jeans. :) I still wear non maternity, stretchy tank tops, but the rest is all maternity!
Movement: This guy is strong! There are many times where I feel him on both sides of my stomach... like he's trying to get out. He just doesn't like to be contained. :) I know that he's going to be a busy little guy once he's finally here. I have asked, many times, if T would like to feel her baby brother move in Mommy's tummy. Every time, she politely declines. It must not be as exciting for her as it is for her Mommy and Papa.

It's crazy to think that baby de Waard will be here in less than 3 months! We're so excited! I've been brushing up on my baby book reading, and it's slowly all coming back! He will be here before we know it.