Dear kiddo

Hey little one,
In just 3 short weeks your Dad and I find out if you are a boy or girl. I can't tell you how anxious we are. You are definitely growing. My belly has somewhat "popped" and I look more pregnant than like I've had too big a lunch. I haven't felt you move yet I don't think.
I'm starting to get together ideas for your crib, bedding, ect... I know you could not care less at the moment but I want you to be as comfortable as possible in this new world. Your two grandmas have helped me out by helping me get some maternity clothes. So far, you have been a great tool for new clothes! I promise though, that's as far as it will go. I promise anytime you are out with your Uncle Josh, you will not be used to pick up chicks. Yes, Uncle Josh, you'll get to know him very close I'm sure. Both your uncles in fact. Uncle Josh and Phil are an adventure all by themselves. I can't guarantee that they will know the correct protocol on feeding or changing your diaper, but I can promise you will always have fun with them. Those two are a couple of the best friends I have. I can't wait for you to meet them. Uncle Josh carries an ultrasound picture of you in his wallet, and you've already been extended an invitation to Uncle Phil and Aunt Gina camp. Your aunt Gina will pick up the slack where Phil and Josh might be weak. You're going to have so many great memories with them. I can't wait for YOU to tell ME the stories.
You are definitely loved. Keep growing strong and healthy kid. You'll need energy to meet all of your sweet family.

Love,
Mom

Isaiah 30: 20-21

As the weeks pass on Jon and I have been trying to decide and nail down our plans for the summer and next fall. With his job and school being in two different towns we had been weighing some options on where we needed to plant our new family. The first of many decisions I'm sure that caused a lot of stress and worry. 

I had been struggling on what the right thing to do was. I could see the pros and cons of both sides but a clear correct answer was not unveiled to me. I came to a breaking point. I felt as if this one decision was going to drastically change the course of my kid's life. I felt a huge weight on my chest that I wasn't deciding for just me and Jon now, but for a new human life. I could handle if I made the wrong decision for myself, but the thought of making the wrong choice for my kid sent me over the edge. I moped around and was frustrated for several days. One of the things I love about Jon is his trust. Trust that God's plan will still unfold despite our humanly choices, trust that things will work out for the good of the Lord. I'm more in the boat of believing all that, but asking the questions, "Ok Lord, what needs to happen, what do I need to do in order for this to go Your way?" Many times Jon's trust that I love so much I envy.

I was at his parent's house and bouncing my ideas off of his mom, Jerri. After just a few moments of talking with her I was reminded how blessed I am. Jerri is one of the rare saints on this Earth. We give her a hard time a lot of the times, call her Amish, but the truth of the matter is, she strives harder than anyone I know to be holy and blameless. She takes a lot of pokes for it, but I hope she knows she has the  highest regard of respect. She gently listened and a few weeks later printed me off a devotional she had found. It it was the following verse:

"...He is your teacher; he will not continue to hide from you, but you will see your teacher with your own eyes. If you go the wrong way- to the right or to the left- you will hear a voice saying, "This is the right way, you should go this way" Isaiah 30:20-21

I found comfort, a moment of peace reminding me He would not leave me dangling to figure out what the correct thing to do is. 

I only write about this because I'm sure a similar situation will arise in my life later down the road. I write this as a reminder to myself. 

16 weeks, looking good.

Today I had my Dr's appointment. Baby had a heartbeat of 166 bpm, the exact same as last time. Consistency already! So far at every appointment since our doctor is a family friend, we've gotten to have an ultrasound and see our baby, but today I guess the hospital was busy. Next month though, we will find out if it's a boy or girl. I can't tell you how anxious I am to find out. On one hand, it will give me the green light to start preparing better for the baby buying things here and there I think suits them. (Jon is dreading this because that means spending more money.) On the other hand, I feel like it will make a more personal connection with my kid. I'm tired of calling him or her, "it", or "Spankus". We have a few names in mind and to be honest, we can't wait to name the baby. Instead of saying, "baby doesn't like that", I;ll be able to say "(Insert baby name here) doesn't like that." 

Dr. gave me the green light to travel during Spring break. We aren't going anywhere too far, but Jon and I decided this may be our last chance for a long while. 

I'm so excited Athena will be delivering the baby. She has been my doctor since I was 6, and let me tell you, she's gotten to know me very well! Her daughter and I played on the same softball/ basketball league all through childhood so she has been there at every ER visit, stitch, and surgery. She knows how my body works and was thrilled when she said she WANTED to deliver the baby. I wouldn't have chosen anyone else. She's very laid back and truly has my best interest at heart. She is truly one of God's extended great physicians. 

I start back to school tomorrow and head back to Weatherford. It's comforting knowing in 4 short months I'll be out for the summer and will have a month or so to just focus on getting this kid into the world. But for now, I pray I can stay focused and not just survive school but conquer it. I'll admit I'm a bit of a nerd and getting A's feel good. 

I see KD on TV, time for me to Thunder Up!

Blessed,

Sarah

To baby, some Dad notes.

Last night I was reminded how blessed you're going to be. Your dad planned and organized a lock-in for the youth of our church. We were hoping for 40 kids, planned for 50. We ended up with over 100 teenagers! With your dad in charge that can be a scary thing! But he did great. Of course, a huge amount of help was given from our great youth workers. After staying up all night your dad slept in till about 2pm, which is much deserved! He had just as much fun as the teens did.

Here's some things you need to know about your dad. I'm sure you will come to figure these out on your own, but hopefully this may give you a head start.

1. Your dad is a hard worker. He will always find a way to provide what you need. That being said, all your WANTS may not be met, but you will never go a day in your life that your dad has not made sure you and me are taken care of. He prides himself on it. And he is determined to teach you to be the same way.

2. Dad is a softy. He talks a big talk, but deep down we both know he wants to give us everything. Lord help him if you are a little girl...

3. Your dad (and your mom I'm afraid) is stubborn. Me and your  dad dated for 5 years before we got married, and are on our 6th month of marriage, and we STILL haven't figured out how to back down and not feel the need to get the last word.

4. We are competitive! You will learn quick that me and your dad love to compete. In sports, board games, even in house work we love winning and hate losing. Rest assured, we want the best for you in whatever you do and will support you so you can be the best you can. We figure we have all the sports covered. Singing or music you will have your Baker grandparents to help. And don't think we forgot about school. We have high expectations for you, little one.

5. Your dad is funny. So funny. Funny to the point where you can't really stay mad or frustrated with him. It drives your mama crazy:) This is one attribute that if you have, I'm in trouble as a parent. I appreciate humor, so if you have the smallest funny bone in you and figure out how to utilize it, I have a feeling you will get away with a lot.

6. Your dad loves you. He talks about you all the time. Boy or girl, he can't wait to play catch, take you to OU and Thunder games, and teach you new things. He has so much planned he wants you to experience with him.

That's a short list, but it will get you through your first few years on Earth. You are a blessing to us in every way sweet baby. We are looking forward to meeting you in just 6 short months.

Love,
Mom

Maternal Instinct Kickin' In.

This week has been filled with preparations for me going back to school. Lots of errands and appointments make for a tired girl. Don't get me wrong, I love school. I feel so blessed to be one of the few that enjoy what they study. I love anything related to dentistry and find it not only a science, but an art. I feel affirmed that I am right where God wants me.

With all that said, without school on my mind, I have really gotten a chance to think about how different our lives will be in a few short months. With each passing day, my excitement grows and my fears and anxieties about all the unknowns dissipate. It's finally starting to sink in that not just "a" baby, but MY baby will soon be with us. I spent much of the first trimester thinking and worrying about the circumstances, surroundings, and details of the baby, I completely looked over the little human that is taking form inside of me. I know I will still stress over all the 'things' that will come with the birth of this baby, but even if it's just a few minutes a day, I will rest and take time to think and pray over my child. My app on my phone tells me this is the week he or she can begin to hear. It's a strange and exciting thing knowing my baby will hear my prayers.

Blessed,
Sarah

Pregnancy Card Used.

Today I got to have lunch with one of my best friends, Kaitlin. We went to Fancy That in Norman and just talked. She is one of those friends you can pick up right where you left off and before you know it, an hour has gone by and you never have enough time. She has played ball with me since I was in elementary school, my college roommate and a bridesmaid in my wedding. Anytime we get together I cherish it.

While in Norman I had to take care of some school stuff and needed to go onto the campus for some transcripts. I decided to take a risk and park in an area I knew was restricted. I figured it would be a quick ordeal and I could get in and out before the ticket officer even saw my car. As I was walking back to my car, I turn the corner and there is a straight away to my car. Then I see him. He has his pen and paper out, looking at my car for the tag. I quickly speed up a bit, but then a thought came to mind. I had been tempted for 14 weeks to use it.... Other than with Jon, I don't blame much on the pregnancy. But, the opportunity presented itself, and sadly, I gave in.

I slowed my walk down, pooched my tiny baby bump out as far as I could, and began to waddle. I cradled my belly and made eye contact with the officer. I immediately apologized and almost magically he put away the ticket and his eyes softened. He saw my poor pregnant self and had pity! He asked if he could help me into my car and even offered to open my door. I couldn't believe I was home free! I began to unlock my car door, turned to him to thank him for his mercy and then it happened. He touched my belly. If you know me, you understand my disgust. He wished me well and shut my door. It took everything in me to keep my mouth shut and not slap his chubby fingers away. I guess I didn't get off completely free after all:)

Jon and I went to the Mustang vs. Yukon basketball game tonight. Mustang won:) Watching these kids play Jon and I both get wound up a bit. I can't imagine how intense it will be when MY kid is the one on the court. I may need to keep a sucker in my mouth to keep from getting kicked out. Looking forward to it though!

Blessed,
Sarah

Cradle Plans!

Dear baby,
There is so much you will learn once you're here. I figure these blogs you will one day read, appreciate and maybe even laugh at. You already have so many people who love you and are busy preparing for you to be here. My dad, or 'Grandfather' as you may know him, (he chose this name- we'll see what you ended up naming him;) ) told me tonight he wants to build you a cradle. I was taken back. You see, your grandfather loves woodworking. He made me and your dad a beautiful bookcase as a wedding gift. His dad was also a craftsmen. I think it is so special you will have a handmade piece of love that will rock you to sleep many nights. The time, effort and planning that will go into this cradle is minimal compared to the amount of prayer you are already surrounded in. You will learn quickly how generous, wise, and patient your grandfather is. He is one of my favorite people and I am positive you will be one of his. He will take on many adventures and like he did with me, will love you unconditionally, pray for you daily, and laugh with constantly. I hope when you are old enough to read this you can find your old cradle and think of your grandfather. He is one of many that can't wait to meet you. But for now, you take your time growing healthy and strong. No hurry, your mama is just now staring to enjoy this whole pregnancy thing.

Love,
Mom

New to this...

Hello blog world. I decided to start one of these this year just to see how effective it was. With family scattered all across and Jon and I always changing what the next day brings, this was a simple way to keep my family and friends up to date on what our lives entail, for those of you who want to know that it is. To be honest, it's more of a tool I'm implementing now to show off our baby later:) All in all, this is just something fun for me to try and if it happens to bring a smile to the face of those reading it, that's just icing on the cake. Blogging isn't the only thing I'm new to this year....

I'm 14 weeks pregnant and loving my break from Dental Hygiene school. I found out we were expecting the day before my birthday in October. Although completely unexpected, after a few weeks of shock, Jon and I are so excited to meet the newest addition into our family. I wonder so much what he or she will look like. I wonder if they will be sarcastic like their mom, or a goof ball like their dad. Only time will tell.

We just finished making all the rounds to family for our first Christmas together. Although hectic and tiresome at times, we loved getting to see everyone. This past weekend we were in Kansas. I was reminded how patient Jon is with kids. My two younger cousins kept him busy outside in the freezing weather playing basketball for the majority of the afternoon. He is pretty sure he wants our baby to be a boy, but those two little girls just love him. Watching him shoot around with them gave me a little glimpse of the dad he'll be.

Blessed,
Sarah