The Craythorn Five

The Craythorn four is now the Craythorn five. We had baby #3 this month. She is healthy and calm and beautiful. I hope it stays that way!

It's humorous, each day we are slowly getting better. Mornings are not our family's strong suit. We have been eating a late breakfast every day since coming home from the hospital but it does get to be a little bit earlier each day.

I'm surprised by how well my recovery seems to be going thus far. I'm exhausted and napping a lot, but I think as a "new" mom that it is totally understandable.

That being said, I've decided to restart the Plexus regimen again, especially with all the health issues I've endured recently. I didn't do it while I was pregnant, the die off symptoms were too much to handle.

I am using the Slim xos for now as I recover. I went one day without it as mornings are hectic and I had a doctor's appointment to get to on time. I could tell the difference in food cravings and bloating. My feet are still swollen, but not as bad as the day I went without it. And my cravings were out the window crazy, ridiculous. I mean I scarf everything down right now, but I wanted anything and everything under the sun.

I've got to get some sleep as it's late and baby is asleep.

FHE Lesson: Humility

Clearly, I am not perfect. FHE has basically fallen on me and being overwhelmed to the point where I ignored everything and everyone was not beneficial to getting our FHE routine in gear for the summer. But, each Monday is a new week to try again because it is something we have been instructed to do to strengthen our families.

Most of my ideas came from these two sites.
Play Eat Grow and Family Home Evening Manual

Opening Prayer: Dad

Song: Be Thou Humble (HB 130)

Scripture: D&C 12:8

Lesson: Tell/discuss with the children what humility is and what humility is not (see FHE manual linked above). Then we will watch The Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector. I watched several videos and I like this one best for our family. I thought we could discuss what each man focuses on.
The Pharisee: Many I's, no acknowledgement to God, no acknowledgement to others for help, feels perfect or better than others, would he be willing to serve others?
The Tax Collector: 1 I, acknowledges God, asked for need (repentance), not perfect, would he be willing to serve others?
As needed, I will talk about what is humility and what it is not and tie it into the 2 men.

Activity: Blessings in a box 

The idea for "Blessings in a Box" came from Pray, Eat, Grow linked above.

You will need two boxes. 1 neatly wrapped, looking "perfect". 1 box tattered and worn (holes/or one large hole I should say will be needed).
You will need some jelly beans or other similar item.

We place the perfect box in a container and pour "blessings" onto it and realize that we do not receive blessings if we already think we are perfect.

We place the the imperfect box in a container and pour "blessings" onto it and see that because of being broken, we are able to receive blessings.

Of course, discuss how this relates to us and how we treat other, ourselves, and our relationship with our Heavenly Father (maybe a little deep for 3 & 1).

Closing Prayer: Oldest DD

Treat: "Humble" pie :) I will most likely use oatmeal pies unless I actually feel like making a pie. 

FHE: Obedience (Toddler Edition)

Reflection: This FHE lesson turned out pretty well for our first one. The kiddos enjoyed the Treasure Hunt and the video with the lesson. Our oldest was telling grandma all about it this morning while I was getting a cavity filled.


Background: I am a convert. My first experience with FHE was with the Young Single Adult ward I was in which was fun, but not as lesson-oriented as most FHE's. We did a few after my husband and I got married with his whole family and a few on our own. We really have not done a lot of them and with our schedules it was very difficult so we didn't do it. Now, Josh's schedule aligns with my schedule and it is important so we are giving this another go. Any advise, I would love along the way!!!

Opening Prayer: Dad

Song: Quickly I'll Obey (CSB 197)

Scripture: John 14:15 or Exodus 20:12

Lesson: Tell the children what to watch for in the video. Watch The Sting of the Scorpion (my first thought was to watch Obedience Brings Blessings, but the other video is shorter which will hopefully keep their attention and not lose it.) Ask the following questions during and/or after the video.

• What happened to the boy(s)?
• What did the boy(s) know he(they) should not have done?
• Who told the boy he should protect his feet (not use matches)?
• What has the boy learned to do? Why?
• Have you made similar choices to this boy?
• What can you do to start making good choices? How can I support you? 

Activity: Treasure Hunt/Coloring Page 

The idea for the treasure hunt and most of the FHE lesson came from here

Treasure Hunt Clues found here.

Coloring Page found here.

Closing Prayer: Oldest DD

Treat: Popsicle (possibly tie into treasure hunt)

School's Out For Summer!

That tune was singing in my head as I said goodbye to work. I always struggle with what to do for the first few weeks once school is out. Now that my little babies are getting older, it is time to focus on a summer schedule for them. In fact, I was inspired by a schedule done by Once Upon A Xanax blogger, Tiffany because I really enjoyed hers. I tweaked it to make it apply to my family. Click here to print.

I also found chore charts I like from this blog here that I have printed off to use for my 2 girls.

If we do not go to Idaho, I have our week planned out: library/park 2 times, swimming 1 time, local orchard 1 time, and a father's day craftivity 1 time. This planning takes too much time seriously, but hopefully it will get better as the summer rolls on. I also have a Family Home Evening that I am planning for Monday evening and getting our house in order. I may be doing too much, but let's see how it goes!

Political Lesson

With elections happening in Nevada over the next week, I decided it was the perfect time to use this particular Time For Kids.

To build some background, we talked about democracy and with voting, I also talked about a caucus. Some of them knew a few of the candidates, but most had no idea. So much of today's lesson was being introduced to democracy and civics, building relevant background, and previewing the text. 

Every year I try to strive for at least one lesson that focuses on how our government works and how we play an important role. 

As I was thinking about its relevance, I remembered a few key moments so far in my life that has molded my civic educational standards. 

1. My senior year in high school I took government... my teacher always told me to "not sit on the fence" with my decisions. Growing up, I understood many viewpoints and had a hard time deciding one over the other. As I've gotten older, started a family, and seen society change, I understand what he was talking about. True change nor full understanding comes from just sitting on the fence. 

2. Also my senior year in high school, I was at home watching the election being tallied starting with the east coast moving west when probably the most profound moment occurred in my life regarding my civic duty. I don't remember most of the details but I do remember a state in the Midwest voted their congressman, who happened to be I believe the minority leader, out of office. It was huge because, Senator Harry Reid of Nevada became the minority leader then. I turned and asked my parents, "Why would a state want to lose that kind of congressional power? Why not keep him?" My dad said a powerful thing, "If the man doesn't vote and make decisions the way the people of his state want him to than why would they keep him? You are elected by the people and should make decisions based on what the people of your state want." It was amazing to me that people would vote to do that and why wouldn't the congressman just change the way he voted based on the people he represents? 

Which brings me to the part that's going to bring the "haters". That thought made me think of Hilary. I watched video evidence about her political stances from years ago vs today. This video which I found on Facebook and shared on my page showed how very conservative her views were years ago and how very liberal she is today. If we want someone who is willing to do what the majority wants than she would be it. The problem: she has denied ever believing in those conservative values and has accused people of twisting her words. Being dishonest and lying is something I don't believe in or agree with. Because of that, it makes me sad she is a candidate and a real possible contender for the election in November. 

But, going back to my words in bold, you are elected by the people... I think too many people have forgotten that. When I read the statistic that an estimated 93 million Americans did not vote in the 2012 elections, it scares me. Where are you, the 93 million Americans that did not vote? Did you know it's your civic duty? Did you know that men and women have protested and died for us all to vote? Did you know it's the one time we can make our voice loud and clear, that we agree with you or we disagree with you? People of political stance who barely win tend to change their standing ground, if even for a short while. Too many people, in office or not, have forgotten that most officials are elected by the people for the people. That's the great thing about being a democracy! Spread the importance. 

3. Be aware. Sometimes laws and bills are written in a complex manner. I remember years ago voting on the law about eminent domain. It made no sense to me whatsoever but because of personal reasons, I kept researching and clarifying until I understood exactly what it meant. I literally spent hours trying to figure it out. I even called my mom trying to talk through the law with someone else. The majority of people voted for eminent domain to be in place here in Nevada. Several years later, the people were trying to repeal the law. As we teach kids at school, for years as I remember being told as a kid too, sometimes the people who give you a test will try to trick you. Kids are expected to find a way to clarify and understand. As adults, the same thing happens when we come across content we are not easily exposed to such as politics. As a coping mechanism, just like some kids, we either skip the question, choose an answer to just move on to something easier that we better understand and can feel confident about, or we work until we figure it out the problem. Just like in school, some concepts are easier than others. It just depends on each individual. I think it's why or at least a partial reason why perseverance is being taught through Common Core. It is expected for a functioning society, at least one of the many things to help our society function.

Finally since I'm on this high horse...

4. We need to be able to debate. I have several friends who have "deleted" me from their lives because of my political stance. I miss the days where I could sit down and have an honest conversation without anyone getting upset about certain political stances. The only people who remain friends with me are those who have similar viewpoints. That saddens me because I love hearing all sides whether I agree or disagree. That is actually a constant battle in my classroom this year, being able to civilly disagree with other classmates and knowing that if we are respectful that it'll be okay. I try my hardest, I know parents try their hardest, but sometimes it's changes that need to happen everywhere including in public/ in society. Not everyone agrees on everything and that should be okay. It's not okay once it becomes disrespectful, and I feel that is what's happening today in society.

So off my high horse I go and into bed, except my oldest woke up. :) 

5 Months

Man, oh man, am I behind!

So my baby turned 5 months old last month. It's uncanny how much her and her sister look alike at the same age. She is growing up way too fast. I feel like it's going by much to quickly! 

Be Real!

So I'm still laying in bed, reading scriptures & the Ensign, and I read the article "By Small and Simple Blogs". This was in it.

Be real. There is no need to pretend your life is perfect.

That is me in a nutshell! I make my life seem "perfect" to the outside because I don't want people to worry or to think Ill of me or my choices. I must say, when I see people who are brave enough to be real, I can totally relate. 

My trial right now is just stress. I feel stress in every aspect of my life. I feel stress at work because people are not getting along and there is much to get done. The list very rarely shortens. I feel stress at home because my house is a mess, I've got a newborn and a toddler, and between our schedules I rarely see my husband. Then on top of that, I'm a secretary for the primary in our ward. There is always much to do! 

But I've been blessed too. As far as work, I feel like I've been blessed to know what to say and when to say it to help with the contention we all feel. I also pray for my sanity and that somehow it all gets done. It does and it's good!

As far as home, I suck at it because I'm focused so much on work but I'm trying. I need to do better. I will get there. I'm grateful for children who love unconditionally and are forgiving. I'm grateful for a husband who is able to do much of the motherly calling when I am not. 

Church stuff, I'm blessed to see the children. They are so smart and strong in the church. We did some visits this week and it seriously changed my mood! The women I work with are truly extraordinary. 

Be real, I wish I could be funny about it but I'm just too serious... But it's how I've always been even before my pre-mortal existence. So I just work it! 

So if you struggle being real, what can you do to be real today? 

December Part 2

There has been many exciting changes! 

First off, Baby Girl is holding her own bottle for a good chunk of the time and is now eating oatmeal. 

We baked cookies on the 21st. It was a lot of fun with all the kiddos around. The kiddos we're watching a Curious George movie during this quite and rare moment. Josh and I love the seven layered bars that were made!

Christmas week was kind of depressing, I got in my funk as usual and ate many of the baked goods! But Christmas came and Josh was off and I snapped out of it. We spent Christmas morning at home opening presents, then taking naps, baking potatoes, finally heading to Kyla's for Christmas dinner. I'll make a separate post for Christmas as the pictures were taken on the actual camera. 

Then this week, we've been working on rearranging/organizing the rooms. We started with the living room! There is so much more space now, seriously! Then for a late anniversary gift, Josh bought a new bed. It makes us feel like grown-ups! Then we got a hand-me-down kitchen table that actually fits the size of our family. 

I'm just busy trying to get done as much as I can before school starts back up in 5 days.

Last but not least, Josh's birthday was today. He had to work so we didn't do anything super special but, he got a few cards and a small gift. 

New Year's plans are to hang out with family! I'll probably make a separate post as well!

I hope your days off are just as productive! I also hope you have a happy and safe last 2 days in December/2015! 

 

December Part 1

Oh man.... I have a lot to catch up on! 

Little miss celebrated her 2nd birthday with family! She got a lot of books and toys! Grandpa Craythorn took all the pics that night. This picture was the morning after when she opened grandma and grandpa Clark's present. 

I had other things to write about but oh well! 

School is over for Winter Break. I did snowflakes in my classroom for our winter celebration. I've even been decking out the holiday earrings! 

Baby Girl turned 4 months old today! She is so very active. She giggles and coos at basically everyone. She squirms like there is no tomorrow. I can already tell her sister is going to be her best friend! She does tummy time well and still spits up a ton. She cries very little and is a happy little baby! 

I have to say... It kind of hysterical that I put my girls in the same outfit at 4 months old! 

As a side note, I sure do miss the snow-covered mountains back home! 

Thanksgiving 2015

Happy Thankgiving!

I hope yours was blessed...

I know that mine was.

We started the day off with some monkey bread for breakfast, which (oh my gosh) was so good! Then we all took naps because we were tired. We then headed over to aunt k's house. We hung out and talked, we played games like mad libs, basketball, pool, and darts, and of course we ate. I would say the usuals were included but I've recently discovered the usuals are different for everyone. We had yummy turkey, dinner rolls, mashed potatoes & gravy, stuffing, veggies, and candied yams. It was delicious. We ate at 3 so we were actually ready to eat pie around 6. All the girls were trying to eat whipped cream from the can. 

It was a fun-filled, blessed day. I'm excited that I got to enjoy it this year. 

Back To Work

Well, I went back to work this week. By the end of each day, I was exhausted. Because of my exhaustion I did not stay on top of my scripture study but, each day is a new day and I can try to do better! 

I did study Monday-Wednesday though! I studied virtue and I feel like I'm doing well in that area. I'm sure I could improve, everyone always has room to improve, but compared to divine nature, I'm doing well. 

Josh has been busy applying for a new job... A job that if he gets, will allow me to be at home with the girls in a few years. 

Since I'm back to work now, no more late nights, but it's kind of easy when you're exhausted 24/7. 

Goodnight. 

Forgetfulness???? Part 2

Ahhh!

Stress...

Not sure why I'm letting my faith seep away a wee bit....

Anyway, so I didn't start a new talk last night. :/ It wasn't because I forgot, but because I was tired and working on stuff for my calling. So I read my next talk tonight (Monday), "Worthy of Our Promised Blessings" by Linda S. Reeves. It had a lot of good information. One quote I will #ponderize this week is...

Photo Credit: Gospel Art Kit

With my doubts and concerns afloat, I needed to hear this! 

She talked about staying pure and clean, so I'll be studying Virtue this week out of the YW Personal Progress book and sharing it with you. 

Divine Attributes

Saturday evening, I wrapped up my first week of studying the scriptures, specifically Divine Nature. I can tell a difference not only in myself but in my family as well when I practice applying my divine attributes. With some changes setting in later this week, I have also noticed the differences when I don't practice applying the attributes of divine nature to my daily life. Following the guidance from the YW Personal Progress, I read 2 General Conference talks. One that I read was given by Richard G. Scott, and it was one I so needed to hear, "The Sanctity of Womanhood" given during the April 2000  General Conference. I was pondering several things, and this answered my thoughts. One quote that clearly describes why there is a difference not only in myself but in my family when I apply divine attributes is, " ...He (Satan)  well knows women are the compassionate, self-sacrificing, loving power that binds together the human family..." We women are the glue. The Men preside, protect, and provide for and over the family, but our nurture seals it all together. It is sometimes a very overwhelming feeling. I read in Alma 7:23 that a women of divine nature will, "...asking for whatsoever things ye stand in need, both spiritual and temporal..."So I did. I prayed for my husband and there have been changes already, whether it's just in my own heart, his heart, or both hearts. The little difference is already making a big impact! It makes me happy. How have challenges changed your life? Is it immediate or in progress? Do you keep your faith? Just some thoughts to ponder! 

Forgetfulness?

How often have you been so wrapped up doing something or your schedule changed and you forgot to do something? 

I do that a lot! In fact, I was so tired last night I forgot to brush my teeth. Did you think I was going to say I forgot to read my scriptures? Don't worry, I didn't. Though it is usually the thing I forget when I run out of time. This time around though, I'm studying the scriptures with purpose and I already feel a difference in my soul/spirit. I don't want to lose that feeling, so even though I was exhausted and it was much later than usual I read the 3rd scripture under Divine Nature and took notes in my journal. I read it tonight I'm sure and see if it makes any sense. :D

That is something new for me, reading the scriptures with purpose. I use to read just to read but I never made it very far without purpose. So If you're struggling with reading the scriptures, I challenge you to find your purpose, your inspiration... Is it to read the Book of Mormon in 30 days, 60 days, 90 days, just 10 minutes a day (TAD), or all the way through? Is it to build a stronger testimony? Do you want to set a good example for your kids? Do you feel you need to study a specific subject like me? Pray and listen to find your purpose! 

Scripture Journey

I know some will think or ask as to why I am publicly sharing my journey...because I feel inspired to. Hopefully it'll help someone in need! 

I was inspired, like so many others by Devin G. Durrant's talk, "My Heart Pondereth Them Continually" to ponder on one scripture a week and to share it with others. I plan to do this with Scripture Mastery because as a convert, I did not get the opportunity as a youth to master important scriptures. 

This week though, I sort of put my own twist on pondering scripture. I read a talk given by Rosemary M. Wixom at the General Women's Broadcast as it was already downloaded on my phone. Her talk, "Discovering the Divinity Within," is just what I needed this week. 

I love the sweet Spirit that I feel at General Conference every 6 months and wanted to keep it longer but was unsure how. Low and behold, I read her talk and decided to study divine nature. Why? When I read it, I didn't understand it... It seemed foggy to me. With being a counselor in the YW presidency for my short time before I was married, I knew I could use the Personal Progress book and learn the knowledge I needed to gain. 

Under Divine Nature, the first step is to read scripture, ponder, and ultimately plan how to use what you've learned. So last night I read, "The Family: A Proclamation to the World". Oh how I needed that! Being reminded that I needed to constantly and consistently practice faith, prayer, repentance, forgiveness, respect, love, compassion, work, and wholesome recreational activities in order to raise my girls in love and righteousness, provide for their physical and spiritual needs, and to teach them 2 things: 1- how to love and serve others and 2- how to observe God's commandments and be law-abiding citizens. That's a huge deal and I want to do my best so I am grateful for the strong reminder. I also wasn't so foggy to the idea of divine nature, partly because I reread her talk and understood the following more clearly. 

The second scripture to read and ponder is 2 Peter 1. Attributes to practice are faith, virtue, knowledge, temperance, patience, godliness, brotherly kindness, and charity. I noticed 2 things: 1- each attribute builds upon each other, much like line upon line and precept upon precept and 2- both list of attributes state you must begin with faith. Divinity will not come without faith. Thanks to Neill F. Marriott's talk, "Yeilding Our Hearts to God," I got a strong reminder that, "All will work out," which has strengthened my faith as it reminded me of something that I desperately needed, all is well and if not now, then will be well in time. I use to live by that as a youth, but have forgotten recently. 

Needless to say, I'm on a scripture journey, I'm challenging myself to focus on this topic this week and boy, has my knowledge grown. I already have plans on what I'll be reading and pondering tomorrow based on this talk and learning about my divine nature.

Remember, practice your faith and putting your trust in God. Build upon each attribute no matter where you are. Finally, challenge yourself with pondering the scriptures, however the Spirit guides you and don't forget to share your findings even if it's in a journal. 

With much love, 

Tamra :)

October 2015 General Conference

***If it's italicized, then I added it in after I originally published. 

I loved this session of conference... I love them all, but this weekend seemed to hit home! There was much said that I needed to hear and I always love the sweet Spirit that I feel during the weekend and within my home. The three things that stuck with me the most is: 1- "All is well", 2- Set aside money each week along with pondering one scripture each week, and 3- Practice self-control... as it will become stronger each time.

I need to remember that all is well. Growing up, no matter what happened, I had that attitude and that along with some other attributes, I was always asked by others if I was LDS. Lately, I've forgotten that all is well, and if it doesn't seem like it now, all will be well later. I must remember that always! 

The next is to set aside money each week... Not sure how we're going to do with that as we just had a new addition to the family and I've been home for 8 weeks, but I can try and that's what counts. 

Then, we should ponder scripture each week. I thought about pondering scripture mastery, but I read a talk Sunday night and I feel as if I should focus/ponder the subject. Sunday I read the talk and Monday I read "The Family: A Proclamation to the World" in regards to the talk and my interest. There are a few more scriptures to read for the subject but I already feel wiser. 

Finally, practice self-control means not giving in to temptations like spending money on stuff I don't need or eating food I don't really need. I'm sure I can add more, but I'm also sure that you get the idea. 

Autumn!!! + More Updates

Welcome to fall!!!

I saw the graphic above on Facebook and died laughing but, I am still very excited! Fall is seriously my favorite time of year because of football, the changing of the leaves, the cooler weather, and then the family-filled, get some time off, holidays! 

Everyone is growing quickly!

Baby Girl has had some more problems eating, but she's hydrated and gaining weight so the doc is not too worried. She is already in 3 month clothing. She is weighing in at 11.7 and 22.5 inches long.

 

Little Miss is your typical 22 month old. I am constantly reminding myself that she is still 1. It's hard for me to remember most of the time because she is the oldest and the size of a 3-year-old. Not much has changed though she has more teeth coming in. My awesome sis bought her the cute dress and matching bow in the pic below. 

Josh has been busy working as usual but, he has been preparing for his Oral Board which was earlier in the week. Now, it's the waiting game to see where he ranks among the other applicants. Results will post next week. 

As for myself, I've been trying to stay calm and relaxed about everything. I'm nervous about returning to work, on top of taking care of a rambunctious toddler and colicky newborn... So needless to say that going out to see my mom and then a few days later going to Utah on a day trip was relaxing and got my mind off of nerve-wracking things. My trip to Utah had a great sign! I also got to use my new carrier and I LOVE it!!!!

My 6 week check up went well. My c-section incision healed up well. So I get to return to work on time. 

I feel like I had more to add, but I don't remember and that's okay because it's nearly 2am and I haven't slept yet... And tomorrow comes early because General Conference is at 9am. Plus, I have an early-rising toddler so every morning comes early. :D

I'll update more later! 

New Family Update

Whew! It's been a crazy month. I had my precious baby girl 4 weeks ago. I keep thinking I need to update this, but with 2 little ones I've been learning to balance my time a little more wisely. Let me tell you what, I'm actually a little scared to return to work in a month because I know it'll be a balancing act, something I'm not very good at. 

Anyway, enough about me for a moment and let me introduce Baby Girl! 

This is her at 6 days old. It's fun to compare how much both my girls look alike at a week old. 

That face is just too adorable! I'm calling her my miracle baby... I didn't take care of myself like I should have during the pregnancy (but nothing stupid either!), and then to have her in a dangerous delivery situation had I not had her by c-section which I was strongly considering because I desperately wanted a V-Bac would have ended sadly. She is my little miracle baby, and much like my mom, she is a peaceful fighter. She's had some issues with eating and she has been fighting to eat, to swallow, and spit up. She has such a calming, sweet spirit. I can't believe how time has flown with this little one. She is like most babies: she sleeps A LOT, she loves her milk, and she has very messy diapers. She does spit up quite a bit though and she has that same mischievous grin that #1 had when she's filling a diaper. She is already almost sleeping through the night, 5-6 hours at a time. She loves to look at me, Josh, and Little Miss in our eyes when she is awake. It's beautiful to share those moments. 

Big Sister loves to help. 

She constantly wants to hold the baby, help the baby burp, change her diapers, wipe her face when it gets messy, and so much more. She has grown up so much but has a little streak of jealousy too. She also moved into a toddler bed. Now it's getting her to stay in bed... I think it'll be easier once Baby Girl is moved out of our room and into hers. We shall see! 

Josh is still doing security, but has applied for a job. He passed the first stage of testing. Now he is awaiting and preparing for the oral board in 2 weeks. I'm excited for the possible new adventure. 

As for me, I've been a stay at home mom for several months now and have enjoyed it very much! My two girls are truly a blessing. Life will be hard to balance once I go back to work and that scares me because everyone deserves the best of me, especially my girls. 

I love my family and will miss them when I return. But we have a plan and I trust that it'll work out. :)

Summer Vacation Week 8 & 9

Ah! Summer vacation is coming to a close. All 11-month employees are returned to school last Monday to get ready for the new school year. Here in 3 days, I'll be returning to work too! I seriously can not believe it! It's time to actually start thinking about my classroom again, even though my house isn't even ready for baby #2 and coming in 10 days. School starting isn't that far behind with only 14 days remaining. Let's pray I can do it all or get the help I need! :)

 Anyway, this past 2 weeks has me really fatigued so I did very little. I've cleaned a little and rested a lot! Josh has been busy with work and other projects. Little Miss has just been very active, but somewhat accommodating to this mommy needing her rest. Baby Girl is getting me ready for her arrival... I had about 3 hours of contractions Monday night and again yesterday. 

If you're reading this, I'd appreciate a little prayer for me and my family as there is still a lot to do! :) 

Summer Vacation Week 6&7

Summer Vacation is winding down though I really feel like mine is beginning with another possible 10 more weeks off still.

The last 2 weeks have been laid back. Baby Girl is getting big so it's getting hard to move as much as I want/need and my energy seems like it's been depleted but it doesn't help I'm not sleeping well at night... Though I think I may have figured out how to fix it in the last few nights (staying up later, less waking up in the middle of the night, waking up more refreshed). We'll see if it continues to work.

Josh has been busy with getting ready for Baby Girl and work. He has a gym membership so he can work out for those jobs he wants to apply for. He has been busy doing the honey-do list. He has been taking care of Little Miss when I have just been to tired to do it. He is amazing! 

Little Miss is more active than ever! Though she's a bit more cuddly now that everyone keeps asking her/talking about Baby Girl coming. It's really quite nice because she normally never cuddles with me unless she's sick. She is excited and fascinated with all things baby though, whether it be taking care of her baby dolls or seeing an actual baby at the store, she just wants to be near them. How she treats her baby doll, for the most part, tells me she's going to be a GREAT big sister! She's also finally showing interest in books... She's never been a big fan of being read too, ever (Except at Grandma Sheri's)! She is finally interested in books and actually letting Josh and I read and finish the book. 

Baby Girl is getting big and hasn't dropped. It's a good thing I've got a c-section scheduled since Baby Girl is doing the exact same thing Little Miss was, breach and refusing to drop. Her heartbeat is being picked up clear up by my ribs still. She is active and moving, all the time! I have a theory she's going to be a night baby. Whenever I have woken up in the middle of the night, she is the most active I have ever felt her, which will be fun once she comes! :D

As for me, despite being 35 weeks at this point, I'm trying to get some things done like the ward's Primary Program, last minute things around this house, and lesson plans which is scary that I've actually got to return to set up my room just for someone else to start the school year off. In that sense, I am very nervous even though I know I have a great sub. As far as everything else, it's only within my control that things get done or not so I'm not nervous because I can always shift and come back later. School planning, I've avoided (minus Pinterest and some TpT) most of the summer because I've been busy around the house but now it's time to start thinking and planning. I'll let you know how that goes! 

Anyway, have a good week!