Mommyhood and Me

To look back on later...

2009-12-05T10:27:00.003-07:00

Wow - so I've gotten horrible about updating this blog. So many of the people I know follow along on Facebook, and it seems like double work. Then I decided that the information was still important to put on here - it's my record, if you will, of my childrens lives as they grow. I'm going to want a place to look back on when they're older :) So here it goes:

Keaton is now 6.5 months old. At his 6 month check up, he weighed in at 18lbs 6oz (75%), 28.5 inches long (97%), with a head measurement of 17.25 (50%). He eats his fruits and veggies like a starving man (this kid can EAT!) and we're getting ready to introduce the mixed foods shortly. He can pretty much sit by himself and he's almost crawling...he'll pull his knees up and pull himself across the floor (gotten pretty darn fast at it too). He's also started putting his forehead on the ground and pushing his legs up to a "standing" position - he basically looks like he's trying to touch his toes :) Once this little guy gets fully mobile, I'm going to be in BIG trouble!! No teeth yet, but he's drooling and chewing on everything so I'm sure they'll show up soon. We've introduced a sippy cup - but it's pretty much just another toy to bang right now. He loves playing with his sister - and watching everything she does. He is an extremely happy baby - always smiling and giggling. I'm so lucky to be his Mama...

Rya is getting ready to turn 3 at the end of February...gosh, the time has just zoomed by! She's fully potty trained now which is great. She can say her ABC's, count to 15, sing a TON of songs (Bringing Home a Baby Bumblebee is her favorite), and always seems to say something new that makes Mama and Daddy laugh. She's FULL of personality and is a bit of a diva. She's super smart, and independent...we're in the "I do it by myself" phase right now...which is both a blessing and a curse. She loves to help cook, and is really into imaginative play right now. She likes to dress up and pretend to be a princess. When she "talks" on the phone, and you ask who she's talking to...she still says "Tom"...haha! Christmas should be fun this year...she understands who Santa is and what he does. She's excited about the Christmas tree and keeps asking for SNOW - which is a pretty hard thing to explain when you live in AZ. Might have to take a trip north after a snowfall...

So that's where we are at today. My kids are both healthy and happy and I am in complete and total love with being a Mommy. I'm not saying everything is perfect - anyone who has struggled through the terrible two's knows that life is far from it...but I wouldn't change a thing. I'll take the good with the bad and know that there will come a day when I'll long for it to be this way again.

Halloween

2009-11-03T20:51:00.002-07:00

Here is a Halloween slide show. Everyone had a blast! :)

Happy 4 Month Birthday Keaton!

2009-09-16T17:34:00.008-07:00

Keaton turned 4months yesterday...unbelievable really. His check-up was today and he's doing GREAT! He's 16 lbs 6 oz (79%) and 27.3 inches long (98%) - so not quite as heavy as I thought but definitely longer than expected. He grew a whole 3.3 inches in 2 months!! {In comparison - Rya at 4 months was 14lbs and 26.5 inches long}

He's rolling over front to back and back to front and already starting to "scoot" himself forward with his feet (just like his sister did). He is a happy baby who loves to smile and is extremely ticklish. He can also SCREAM like no other when he's unhappy and tends to be pretty impatient! Roy says he's a whiner just like his dad :) He's grasping for objects and bringing just about everything to his mouth. One of his favorite hobbies - watching his Big Sister play around the house.

His sleeping pattern is pretty eratic...he can go for awhile at 10 hours or so a night, then he's waking up every 8 then 6. Not sure if it coincides with growth spurts or what, but I'm hoping the 10 hour mark gets a little more consistent.

All in all he's growing and changing just about daily. He's healthy and happy and really that's all that matters :)

Quick update on Rya - we're going on 4 days ACCIDENT FREE! We've been in undies for over a week, and she's doing FABULOUSLY. She'll tell you know when she has to go and is staying dry through naps. We still put her in a pull up at night. She loves to sing and dance and is currently addicted to Little Einsteins. We're having a small issue with her being bossy at school (no idea where she gets THAT - HA!) so we'll have to work on being nice and listening to authority figures - but at the same time, I don't want to completely "break" her of that habit. Being bossy (at the appropriate times) is a good thing in my opinion ;)

A few updated pictures of the kids below - seems like I just can't get them up soon enough these days!!

2 month check up...

2009-07-17T09:07:00.004-07:00

Keaton had his 2 month check up yesterday. He's a happy, healthy baby weighing in at 13lbs 7oz (87%) and is 24 inches long (86%). He's sleeping about 6-7 hours a night and eating 4-5oz a feeding. He's smiling and cooing and loves to watch his big sister Rya play around the house. He starts daycare on Monday (yes, I'm super sad about that)...and Rya will get to check-in on her little brother throughout the day.

Rya is doing great - talking up a storm. Man, does she come up with some killer lines. We're still working on the potty training, which I seriously think is the hardest part of Mommyhood so far. She has her good days and bad, but we're hoping that someday soon we can say Goodbye pull-ups :)

As you can see, I have my hands full these days...between my growing little boy and my intelligent little girl I find myself with very little down time. On the rare occasion I have a few minutes to myself, I can usually be found on Facebook or updating this blog.

Here are a few updated pictures for your viewing pleasure :)

Some updated pics...

2009-06-30T11:14:00.003-07:00

Here are a few updated pictures of our little man. His 2 month check-up is on July 21st. As of June 18th he was already up to 11lbs 3oz...such a big boy :) He's a good baby - and has already started smiling. He LOVES his Big Sister Rya - he'll just sit and stare and grin at her. It's adorable!! How time flies...

2 week check-up

2009-06-03T11:30:00.001-07:00

Keaton had his 2 week check-up this morning. He's now a whopping 9lbs 13oz (almost 2 lbs more than his birth weight) and 22.1 inches long. He's a healthy, happy baby. He just lost his umbilical cord last night (ewwww!) so we're ready to start normal baths.

Everything else is just as peachy...slowly adjusting to life as a family of 4...though it's hard with all the company we've had. The real test will start June 22nd when everyone has returned home and it's just us...is it weird that I'm excited about that? :)

Better late than never...

2009-05-29T12:33:00.005-07:00

Keaton is 2 weeks old - which means I'm extremely late in getting this birth story posted. Better late than never, right? :)

So - the pregnancy had been text book - as previously mentioned. Then on Mother's Day I ended up catching a terrible cold/sinus infection. From there - my perfect pregnancy got a little chaotic.

MONDAY, MAY 11th: I had a doc appointment and they tested me for strep - which came back negative. I apparently had some sort of viral thing that antibiotics wouldn't touch. I had an ultrasound scheduled for the same day which showed that the baby's fluid level was extremely low. They sent me to the hospital immediately to receive "24 hours of hydration" with the hope that the fluid level would increase and we could keep the original scheduled date for the c-section (May 19th). Off to the hospital I went...totally unexpected and totally nervous. I was hooked up to an IV and was even ordered to spend time in the maternity "spa" - which was basically a big tub with luke warm water. Luckily, by the next morning a new ultrasound showed the fluid level had doubled - but my cold was also getting worse. The doc on call requested a test where they watched the baby for 8 different actions - in order to pass, you had to get a score of 8 out of 8. The last action was movement of the baby's diaphragm. With less than 30 seconds to go, the diaphragm finally started moving but wasn't moving long enough for him to pass the test. The doc requested the test be repeated in another 4 hours which he then passed and I was discharged. I was told to come to the docs office the next morning for blood work and to keep my last prenatal appointment on Thursday.

THURSDAY, MAY 14th: I arrived for my LAST prenatal appointment. I was STILL sick - coughing, sneezing, basically miserable. When the medical assistant went to take my blood pressure, I had a coughing fit which elevated my blood pressure (130 something over 80). They laid me on my side and retook my blood pressure which was then normal (117 over 70). When the doc came in (quick note - last appointment was with the doc that I'm not particularly fond of) she tried to tell me that when she looked at the "big picture", signs of preeclampsia were there (high blood pressure, blood work showing elevated levels, low fluid level, etc...) and she recommended that I deliver immediately. I tried to explain that I had coughed when the medical assistant took my blood pressure and that I was also taking Sudafed for my cold (which is known to elevate blood pressure). I continued to explain that the fluid level had also been low with my daughter and basically told the doc that I wanted the second opinion from Dr. Messer who was scheduled to deliver me on Tuesday. Unfortunately Dr. Messer agreed with the other doc and I was once again admitted to the hospital. I was set up for hourly blood pressure monitoring which came back normal every time. They drew new blood work which showed that my levels had remained the same and were not increasing like they would with preeclampsia. They also gave me antibiotics with hope that it would fight the sinus infection I was now dealing with. Dr. Messer decided to keep me over night for observation and would make a determination the next day.

FRIDAY, MAY 15th: Dr. Bullaro (the doc who delivered Rya) was now the doc on call. She said that ultimately, we could wait until the scheduled date to deliver the baby - though there was really no benefit of doing so. The baby was healthy and could be delivered at any time. She left the decision up to Roy and I whether we wanted to deliver or wait it out until Tuesday. After discussing it, both Roy and I decided that having the baby was the best solution - I was already in the hospital, hooked up to IV, I was tired and miserable (and STILL sick), and delivering on Friday would allow Roy to be there without having to take additional time off work (he had already missed most of the week due to my hospital visits). By now, it was about Noon and I was told that I would be in surgery by 2:30pm. After a couple of schedule changes, I was finally walked to the Operating Room (yes, I walked myself into the Operating Room) and Roy was given his scrubs and told to wait in the hall until they came to get him. Dr. Bullaro (who is the best Doctor EVER!!!) was with me while I was given my spinal and prepped for surgery - which I appreciated. With Rya, Roy was with me when I was given the epidural and without him there I was a little anxious. Roy was brought in, camera ready and before I knew it, the surgery had begun. Dr. Bullaro asked me how much of what she was doing did I want to know...I quickly answered "not much" - ha! :) I was more alert and aware of what was going on this time. I could feel pressure, but no pain. When it was time for the baby to come out, I started to feel a lot of pressure - and then all of a sudden a huge release with a "whoosh" sound. I hear the doc say "Whoa!" and everyone laugh a little - apparently the little guy just came bursting out like he couldn't wait to enter the world. He was a healthy 8lbs 1oz and 20.5 inches long (in other words, a big baby just like his sister - especially considering he was only 38wks 4days). They finished the rest of the surgery while Roy went with the baby. I was eventually wheeled into the recovery area where Roy and the baby were waiting. I was able to give him his first feeding - unlike Rya when I was completely knocked out after some complications during the surgery. We were then taken to the post-op room where Auntie Carlene and the grandparents showed up shortly after. Rya came up a few hours later and immediately took to her new role as Big Sis.

For the most part, recovery went well - because I was still recovering from my sinus infection and had a ton of drainage, I ended up getting sick Sunday which put my discharge on hold. They gave me some allergy meds and cough medicine and by Monday I was able to be discharged.

Which brings us to today. I'm amazed at how fast he's growing already. He's eating 4 ounces a feeding and sleeping about 2.5-3 hours at a time. He's a happy baby - at least until he poops...he HATES having a dirty diaper and will scream bloody murder until he's changed - LOL! Every day he looks more and more like his sister - who, by the way, is completely EXCITED about having a baby brother. She loves to help feed him and is always asking to "hold the baby". At his first doc appt, he was already back up to 7lbs 15 oz (he was 7lbs 13oz when we left the hospital) and was a whopping 21.5 inches long - nearly an inch longer. His 2 week follow up is Wednesday, and I'm interested to see just how big our Little Man has gotten :) So far, the biggest difference I've found between baby boys and baby girls - DIAPER CHANGES. You just never know what to expect...and yes...there have been a few "squirting" incidents. We've done a ton of laundry this first week :)

So, that's it - rather long and detailed, but really this is more for me to remember and so the kids will know how they were brought into the world. One day, they'll be able to look back at all these posts and see just how much love and care it took to help them get to where they are :)

Thanks for reading and as always...STAY TUNED!!!!

He has ARRIVED!!

2009-05-22T15:05:00.003-07:00

Keaton Angelo McCormack has arrived!!

Born 05/15/09 @ 2:18pm
8lbs 1oz
20.5 inches long

Birth story to come. For now, enjoy the slideshow :)

Back pain, swollen feet, and contractions...OH MY!

2009-04-21T19:25:00.001-07:00

4 weeks from today we will become a family of 4!! I've gotta admit that this pregnancy has definitely worn me out...I've been more tired, more uncomfortable, and generally more bitchy than I was the first time around. My back has been killing me for the last couple of days, my feet are swollen, and I've actually felt a couple of contractions (with Rya, I felt absolutely nothing until I was in full labor). On the bright side, this baby is healthy and apparently very happy since he seems to still enjoy stretching out and making himself at home whenever possible. I've seriously gotta catch his movements on video because it's something straight out of a Sci-Fi flick -even the doc is in awe of the way my belly gets distorted as little guy does his thang.

I had my last 2 week appointment today - the weeklies start next week - and all is as it should be. Blood pressure is good, weight is good, baby is good...again, text book. The doc did mention that there's every possibility that this kid reaches 9 pounds before delivery (Rya was 8lbs 10.6 oz.)...thank goodness for c-sections!! So say a prayer that I can keep my patience intact for at least the next 4 weeks...after that, it's all about dealing with a newborn AND a 2 year old...Heaven help me!!

As for another important issue that everyone has been asking about.......we've decided on a name.......or at least are as close to deciding as we probably ever will be. So - unless we come up with a miracle name in the next 4 weeks, this little boy will be known as......

Keaton Angelo McCormack

In case you're curious, the Angelo is after my grandfather who has been a huge influence in both my life, as well as Roy's. Keaton - well - its one of the few names both Roy and I can remotely agree upon...and that's still not 100%. One thing I've learned this time around - boys are just not as EASY...names, bedding, clothing...you name it and it's just NOT as simple. I have a feeling this will hold true even after Keaton is here :)

Anyways...that's it for now. This chick is tired and needs to go get her 2 year old ready for bed. Enjoy the rest of your week everyone!!!

57 days to go...

2009-03-29T07:24:00.001-07:00

It's been forever since an update, but everything has been pretty quiet. I'm 32 weeks tomorrow and everything is perfect. The doctor and nurse practitioners say that I am having a "text book" pregnancy...all levels, tests, weight, size, etc are exactly where they should be. Little Man is SUPER active and - according to the doc - likes to stretch his legs and arms STRAIGHT out, which feels VERY strange...let me tell you. This time around, I'm a little more uncomfortable as he's sitting really low. For those of you out there that have had children, it's reached the point where it feels like I'm sitting on the poor kids head anytime I sit down...not an enjoyable feeling. There are also moments where I can actually feel him pressing against my belly - and you can discern a body part. I definitely don't remember that with Rya - she was further back. I've got 2 more appointments before I start going every week.

Time sure has flown by. I'm on schedule for my c-section on May 19th...and man, am I ready to have my body back!! This pregnancy has gone by pretty fast - and pretty quietly - but these last couple of months are dragging. Can't wait to meet my little boy!! By the way...NO NAMES YET...but we're working on it :)

As for everything else...we moved from Mesa to Gilbert. I haven't taken any pictures yet (they're coming soon, promise) because I've been trying to get unpacked. It's happening slower than I had hoped, but don't fret, we're almost done.

Rya is doing FABULOUSLY! She's getting into potty training...will go on the potty when she first wakes up and before baths/bed. As for during the day, well, it's hit and miss. Daycare is working with her so we're hoping that the combination of home and "school" will help her understand. According to the director, we shouldn't get discouraged since she's still in what they call the "young 2's" since she just turned 2 and most kids aren't ready to potty train until 2.5 or 3 on average. Plus, there will probably be regression once the baby is here so we're just taking things slowly and letting her go at her own pace. No sense in pushing. Other than that, she loves to sing songs (alphabet, itsy bitsy spider, monkeys on a bed, twinkle twinkle, etc.) A couple weeks ago, she walked up to me and said - "the wolf mommy, he puffs and puffs and blows the house down". LOL! It was the funniest thing I had ever heard!! Some times I'm amazed at how fast she's growing up!!

I guess that's about it for now. There's a ton of other stuff to blog about, but I at least covered the major points. Hope everyone is having a great weekend.

Rya's Party

2009-03-03T08:13:00.000-07:00

Just a quick slide show of pics from Rya's 2nd Birthday Party. ENJOY :)

Rya's 2 year Photos

2009-02-27T11:15:00.001-07:00

3d/4d Ultrasound Pics...

2009-02-22T07:41:00.003-07:00

Here they are...ENJOY :)

He's DEFINITELY a boy!!

He looks JUST like RYA!

Our Little Man

His hands were by his face the entire time

Already a thumb sucker!!

TOES :)

Just in case you are curious...

2009-02-21T06:16:00.005-07:00

So - it's obvious that I have this ginormous belly. DUH! What people forget is that I was JUST AS BIG if not BIGGER with Rya. I've posted my 26wk 5 day Rya Belly photo here for comparison...

Rya is in the white - Baby Boy is in the red. BTW...still no name. We're working on it :)

Sleepy...

2009-02-20T21:26:00.002-07:00

Thought I would post the latest belly shot and then head off to bed...I'm POOPED!!! Tomorrow we have our 3d/4d ultrasound, so stay tuned...

26 weeks 4 days

A moment for myself...

2009-02-13T20:40:00.005-07:00

I've been asked lately if I've done any writing. The answer to that is simple - no. There is little time these days and way too much going on in my mind. While I find inspiration in every smile that crosses my daughter's beautiful little face, finding the time to sit and type it all out just never happens.

What am I doing right now then, you ask? Well...I've been blog inspired. Hence the reason I'm on here and not staring at an MS Word screen at the moment. Afterall, this blog is about Mommyhood and that includes the millions of thought bubbles swirling around in my mind. So, this will probably be a bunch of rambling nonsense...seemingly meaningless, but important nonetheless.

***In a few months, I will be a Mommy of two! Exciting and scary all at the same time. I often wonder how I can possibly manage to divide my time between these 2 little people who will both need me so very much. I know that I will have to make the extra effort to spend time with Rya so she doesn't feel like Baby Boy has taken over the world. I also know that once he's here, life will eventually fall into place...but it doesn't mean I worry about it any less.

***In a week, we will host Rya's 2 year Birthday Day party! Where has the time gone? This time around, it's an Elmo theme (shocker, I know) including a pull-string Elmo pinata...cool, huh?! Stay tuned for pictures.

***We have yet to decide on a name for this little boy flipping and kicking in my belly. Part of me feels like he should already have a name...the other part is just amazed at how hard it is to think of and decide on a suitable name. Maybe it's because we chose such a unique name for Rya, that we now feel Little Man's name has to be just as great. Good going McCormacks! ;)

***We're in the process of packing up our house. We will be moving into Chandler here shortly, which will put us closer to my sister-in-law and our friends. Funny thing is that we always seem to move when I'm pregnant and can't do much. On one hand, it's a "get off free" card. On the other, it's frustrating not being able to do as much as I would like. Shoot - one box packed and I'm exhausted :) I'll keep everyone posted and will send out our new address as soon as we have one. We're looking at more houses today so keep your fingers crossed.

***In this crazy time, I'm thankful that the hubby and I still have jobs and are keeping our family happy and healthy. I pray for those who are struggling and hope that something happens soon to right this terrible mess we're in.

***I'm sure this list could go on and on forever, but I think I will end it here for now. To put thought to screen is a very refreshing feeling. It helps me sort out the thoughts in my mind and let's you all see a side of me that you otherwise would not. Some will be boring, some will be exciting...but over all I hope you follow along on this journey I like to call Mommyhood. It's sure to be an interesting ride :)

Prego Pics

2009-01-25T08:13:00.000-07:00

Here are a couple of a pics taken at 22 weeks 5 days:

Quick Update

2009-01-16T13:19:00.000-07:00

Hello all! Baby boy and I are just chugging along - 4 months to go!! He's moving ALL the time and you can actually see my belly jump now. Roy's been able to feel him quite a few times - he's a strong little booger.

My c-section has been scheduled for Tuesday, May 19th at 7:30am. I have to be at the hospital at 5:30am to get ready and then Little Man will make his entrance into the world. Let's hope I don't go into labor beforehand - I have NO IDEA what will happen then!!

No names at this point - have a couple of ideas but nothing solid. As soon as a decision is made, we'll let you all know.

That's about it as of now. Things are fairly quiet which is a good thing :) Stay tuned as always...

I have BLUE on the brain...

2008-12-30T13:22:00.000-07:00

IT'S A BOY!!!

I just returned from the all-telling ultrasound and yes, you read that right. It's a boy!! We're absolutely THRILLED. Rya is going to have a baby brother :)

Our little guy is weighing in at a whopping 10 oz. He has a heart rate of 148 bpm. I'm right on schedule for a due date of 5/25/08 - but because I will be having a scheduled c-section, they will be performing the surgery about a week before. It's currently being scheduled with the hospital, so as soon as they call me with the final date and time I will update you all.

Little man is moving like crazy - never stopping during the entire ultrasound. I'm feeling him move, but it's still pretty light. Other than that - all is perfect. Thank you for all of your prayers. We truly appreciate all of your support :)

Profile Shot

Frontal view

Showing his man-parts to the world :)

Quick Pic update...

2008-12-27T08:39:00.000-07:00

Here is the baby bump at 18wks 3 days. I'll post a full blog after the all exciting appointment on Tuesday :)

15 Week Update

2008-12-03T19:56:00.000-07:00

Well, I'm 15 weeks 2 days today and yes...I've already got quite a "bump" going on. Take a gander at the newest picture below. YIKES! I'm feeling pretty good, though I still find myself exhausted by the end of the day. I had a doctor's appointment yesterday and everything is going well. Heard a nice strong heartbeat - 146 bpm. The all-telling ultrasound is scheduled for December 30th. Will it be pink or blue...let the bets begin ;) At my next appointment, also on the 30th, I'll be scheduling my c-section. I'm ready to have my date and time set so I can begin to plan for the after effects. My grandparents might be coming into town for a couple of weeks to help us around the house and to help with Rya since I'll have limited mobility and a newborn on my hands.

So, that's it for now. We've been pretty busy with Thanksgiving and preparing for our trip to SC next week. Can't WAIT!! If I don't get on here before, have a VERY Merry Christmas everyone. Enjoy this time with family and friends and be thankful for everything little blessing that comes your way!

2nd Trimester - YAY!

2008-11-17T20:18:00.000-07:00

We've made it to the 2nd Trimester - YIPPEE! Here's a new belly shot for you all. Not much going on, so I'm going to go catch some extra zzz's while I can :)

Toddler Shenanigans

2008-11-17T19:48:00.000-07:00

Let's start with the interesting stuff first...

For the last week or so, we've noticed that Rya has had some SERIOUSLY bad breath. I mean, not just the "I've eaten something and my breath stinks" kind of bad breath...but the "Something is rotting in my mouth" kind of bad breath. We've been brushing her teeth more often, but it didn't help. I finally asked daycare about it this morning because we knew that something was just NOT right! They suggested I call her doctor, which I did as soon as they opened. Brought her in for the appointment and...guess what...PAPERWAD UP THE NOSE!!! Yes folks...you read that right. She had a wad of paper stuffed up her nose. We're guessing it had been there for at least a couple of weeks. You couldn't see it just looking at or up her nose and the only comments she ever made were first thing in the morning..."nose hurts, mama". I assumed it was from being stuffed up and runny. Boy was I wrong. Needless to say, it got inflamed and infected - causing the foul odor. They tweezed it out...and now all is well in the world of Rya. That's what I call "Toddler Shenanigans". LMAO

Now - as for me- I'm feeling good. Still tired, but that's to be expected living the life I live. I'm officially in the 2nd trimester as of today - WooHoo! We're only a couple months away from finding out if Little Mack is a boy or girl...which is pretty exciting stuff. The 12 week belly shot will be posted momentarily on the other blog (http://littlemack2.blogspot.com/)!! BTW...I'm thinking of combining these into one blog - easier to maintain and easier for people to check up on. I'll keep everyone posted.

Hope everyone is gearing up for a wonderful Thanksgiving. Can you believe it's only a little more than a week away...YIKES! Enjoy the holiday...stay safe and have fun! (A couple of recent pics are below...)

Here come the Belly Shots...

2008-10-28T18:10:00.000-07:00

First belly shot - 8 weeks 3 days. Yes, folks...it's starting early! I'm about 10 weeks 1 day now and already in maternity clothes...YIKES :)

And it's time for Nausea...

2008-10-16T17:23:00.000-07:00

Well, turns out I'm a week further along than expected - 8 weeks, 3 days today. Due May 25th :) We're super excited and have now shared the news with friends and family...probably the reason you're reading this. Everything is going well so far...although, there is always the chance that something could happen. We're just praying for the best. Here are a few pictures to get the next 9 month journey going...

Pretty self explanatory

The newest Baby Mack :)

Update - 6 weeks (tentatively)

2008-10-06T17:21:00.000-07:00

I'm tentatively 6 weeks today. I have my first OB appointment tomorrow to confirm. I'm definitely feeling it - nausea, exhaustion, heightened sense of smell! UGH! I remember some of this with Rya, but the nausea is definitely worse.

Should be pretty interesting to see how the pregnancies differ...I'll try to keep better track of my symptoms this time around :)

And so it begins...

2008-09-22T13:10:00.000-07:00

It is September 22nd and it will be a couple of months before any of you will see this. Let's just say I'm getting a head start this time around.

Last night I took a test and guess what, we're PREGNANT! Yes, we are on the road to becoming a family of FOUR! Tentative due date: June 1, 2009.

Not really all that surprising was the immediate fear that sets in for me. You'd think after a perfect pregnancy and birth of a beautiful little girl that the second go round would be so much easier. I'm here to tell you this is NOT the case. It's the same worries, the same paranoia. I keep telling myself to relax, but it's definitely going to be a long couple of months :)

So...sit back, relax, and get ready to enjoy the newest 9th month journey with the McCormacks :)

18 months and counting...

2008-08-27T06:00:00.000-07:00

Well, it's been 18 months since our little Rya Faith was born. She's now 23 pounds (between the 25-50 percentile), 33 and 3/4 inches long (95th percentile), with a head measurement of almost 19 inches (80th percentile). Unfortunately, she has inherited her mother's allergies. We got the approval to start giving her children's Zyrtec to help combat the runny nose, itchy eyes, and cough.

She now has her upper molars and is in the process of getting her bottom. She's talking ALOT...keys, fish, shoes, mine, etc. etc. She has also started multi-word sentences..."Hi Dada", "No more bites", "My shoes". She can put her shoes on...not always on the right feet, but it's a start. She has also figured out how to open the latch on the fridge door at Daycare...a feat even the 2 year olds have yet to figure out. She is a little swimmer - getting better and better every time in the pool. With some suggestions from the Pediatrician, we're going to get a little more dedicated to the potty training...especially since she's now telling us when she's gone "poo" or "pee pee". Maybe I can convince Daycare to join in...if not, at least we'll be ahead of the game come 2's time.

The new daycare is 100 times better...though the 1's room is going through a bit of a "biting crisis" at the moment. Seems like if she's not getting bit, then she's the one doing the biting...I can't WAIT for this phase to pass!!

She's doing and saying so much more everyday...we're constantly surprised. Oh...and she still LOVES Elmo!! What will she be doing 6 months from now...only time will tell. I can't believe it's even that close!! I was always told that children grow up right before your eyes...and now I know just how true that is.

Stay tuned...there's sure to be more to come!

Pics from Rockford '08

2008-08-13T21:28:00.000-07:00

Here is a slideshow of the pictures from our Rockford Trip '08. There aren't any captions yet, but I'm going to try to get them done soon...so check back :)

Living life to the fullest...

2008-07-19T08:43:00.000-07:00

Wow! I've gotten pretty bad at keeping this blog updated. Is it really any wonder?? I'm constantly chasing a 17 month old around the house and trying to keep her out of the dog's water dish (which she seems to think is her indoor splash pool). So here's the latest in this crazy life of mine...

My job is still going GREAT! It definitely has it's chaotic moments, but I'm no stranger to chaos :)

Roy has found work that he's really excited about. He's started working for a company that services cell towers and is making it possible for us all to have better cell service It takes him out of town on occasion, so Rya and I are adjusting to girl's nights. The Mesa PD is currently on hold.

As for Miss Rya...geez, I don't even know where to begin. She'll be a year and a half in a month and continues to surprise me every day. She's only about 22 pounds right now, so really tall and lean. She can still fit in 9 month shorts, which are finally starting to get a little tight. She's learned TONS of new words...when she's hungry she usually says eat or nummie. She now LOVES to say cookie. We've also got her saying "please" more often. She can say teeth, elbow, nose, eye, toe, and calls her belly button "butt" which we're still working on She asks for her "kitty kitty" which is a beanie baby cat. She just recently started saying "poo" when she has pooed her pants. Needless to say, we're going to start getting a little more aggressive with the potty training. She still LOVES Elmo...I think Elmo is slowly taking over my house...LOL! We've started brushing her teeth...which she thinks is just another "snack" since the toothpaste is the non-foaming kind you can swallow Which reminds me...she's currently cutting her upper molars...which means crankiness abounds at random intervals.

We've also switched her over to a facility style daycare center which has not been an easy transition. It's worse in the morning when I'm dropping her off...for the first time ever she's clingy and doesn't want to be left. I know this is normal, but it's been extremely difficult on me leaving her like that. By the time I pick her up, she's smiling and talking and just fine. Logically I know she's ok during the day, but it's affecting her personality and that bothers me. We've decided to keep her in the same "chain" of daycares but move her to a new branch on Monday that's closer to home and will hopefully help the separation anxiety...better environment, better teachers, and less switching room to room, etc. I'll keep you all posted.

We'll be heading to Rockford for a visit the first week in August - we're very excited about that. Would love to see as many of you as possible!! So...until next time - have fun, stay safe and hopefully we'll see some of you soon!!

15 Month Update...

2008-05-18T15:40:00.000-07:00

So, it's been about a month since I posted anything new. Rya is chatting away...even if we can't understand 99% of what she's saying :) All the other Moms at daycare love to get her talking when they come to pick up their children...and she loves the attention. She tries to imitate us alot when we're talking and seems to be picking up new words every day. She's also starting to imitate a little girl at daycare who has started potty training...Rya started to sit on her "potty". When I go into the bathroom, I take her in with me and set her on her little potty (with her shorts and diaper still on for now) and she'll close the lid when she's "done" and then will flush. We'll see how things go. For now, here are a few of my favorite pictures from the last month:

AND...just in case anyone cares...I chopped my hair :

A recent pics slideshow...

2008-04-25T21:33:00.000-07:00

A video of my little Chatterbox :)

2008-04-25T21:26:00.000-07:00

Just another day in this CHAOS!

2008-04-25T21:25:00.000-07:00

It's been a bit since I've updated everyone - or at least since I typed up one of these blogs that few people even care about :) The husband and daughter just happen to be sleeping and I found myself with some "alone" time (YippEE!!! ) so here I am.

It's been a very hectic few months here in AZ. I had taken a new job at the end of February that just didn't work out....I don't think I was really meant to clean dirty, wax crusted hearing aids - I was hired as the Office Manager for pete's sake! Anyways...I was able to start a new job this past Monday as a Project Specialist with the direct mail division of the main newspaper in town. I'm slowly getting adjusted, but it seems like it's going to be a GREAT fit. PLUS...I know people I work with (Carlene and Tom)...which is definitely nice after a couple of years of working primarily by myself. So things are on the upswing for me - though I don't get nearly as much time on MySpace...can we say withdrawals anyone??

As for Roy, he sold his moving business and has started the process of getting into the Mesa Police Department. It will be a very long, tedious journey and he will have to find something to get us by until the January academy, but he's excited.

We also did some car swapping...we sold my Jeep and traded in Roy's truck on a Mazda3 for myself. More economical in the long run - it's WAY better on gas. Roy FINALLY got an older used car Wednesday night - which has relieved a ton of my stress...living off just one vehicle for a few weeks was REALLY hectic and nerve wracking. PHEW - that's a load off :)

As for Rya...geez, what can I say? She's 14 months old today and I just really don't know where the time is going. She's now saying tons of new words including "no, no, no" (which Mama just LOVES), "apple" and "Abby" for Abby Caddaby (Elmo's best friend). She's become a total sucker for Elmo - we've gotten a couple Elmo videos, one that teaches opposites and another that has favorite kids songs...and she just LOVES them. Roy can now hand her something and say "take this to mommy" and 9 times out of 10 she'll bring it right to me. We're having a bit of trouble getting her off the bottle ("baba") but we're not too worried about it. The doctor had just mentioned that she should be off completely by 15 months or so...guess we'll just continue to work on it...any suggestions??

Other than that, we're just zipping through each day wondering where the hours have gone. The weather is GREAT right now, though it's heating up here in AZ (should be close to 100 degrees this weekend) but it's still nice enough to spend lots of time enjoying the warmth and the sun...which means even less time to spend on here, which is probably a good thing
Take care everyone - big hugs from AZ!!

Lil' Miss Chatterbox

2008-04-25T21:23:00.000-07:00

(originally posted 04/06/08)

I am in LOVE with being a Mommy!!

While chasing after a 13 mo old is exhausting...Mommyhood has never been more fun! She’s a little sponge, just soaking up every little bit of information she comes in contact with. It’s time Mommy and Daddy really watch what they do and say :)

Her newest words..."nana" for banana. We were at Aunt Carlene’s and she pointed to the sky and said "airplane". We were all shocked!! When we’re driving down the road, she’ll say "go, go, go". She’s perfected "ba bye" and "ni ni" for nite nite. We sat down to read one of her favorite books and she points to the front cover and blurts out, "Elmo". I was like..."ROY, DID YOU HEAR THAT?!?!" Haha! She says "baba" for bottle and is now starting to say "daddy" and "mommy". If she wants to know what something is, she says "dat", which I’m pretty sure is supposed to be "that".

She can point to her ears, toes, legs, belly button and sometimes her nose and mouth when she really wants to. When she sits and "reads" a book, she points her finger and follows the words. She’s starting to get a hang of shapes and the whole square peg, square hole thing...we’re still working on it. Ducks and books continue to be a couple of her favorite things.

I’m just constantly amazed at how quickly she learns and how fast she’s growing up. She is my beautiful little girl, and I’m so proud to be her Mommy. Yes, I know I’m going to have my hands full as she grows up...Lil’ Miss Chatterbox...she’s just too much like her Daddy ;)

A year has gone by...

2008-02-26T19:24:00.000-07:00

It was a year ago yesterday...a precious little girl joined our family and nothing has been the same since. Our days are longer, our nights are shorter, laughter and frustration often go hand in hand - and we wouldn't have it any other way. We're truly blessed and we thank God every day that Rya Faith is in our lives.

Her party on Saturday was a HUGE success. She got a lot of great gifts and is now absolutely spoiled rotten :) Thanks to everyone that was here! (Aunt Carlene bought her a potty training seat - I think she was trying to tell us something...haha). Check out the pictures - there's a TON of them!!

Rya had her 12 month check up today. She's 20 pounds 5 ounces (50th percentile). Her head measurement is just over 18 inches (between the 75th and 80th percentile). She's 31 3/4 inches long (over the 95th percentile). In other words, she's still tall and pretty lean. The doctor checked her sternum again and thinks that Rya is growing into it...it's very slowly becoming less noticeable. Her belly button still has a small hernia, and they'll continue to watch that until she's 3. If it hasn't healed by then, they'll refer her for a minor surgery to close it up. She got 4...count 'em 4 shots...one in each arm and 2 in her left leg! OUCH!! But she took them like a pro and is doing really well!

She's walking...and walking...and walking...and Mommy just wishes she could sit and relax :) She's also talking quite a bit - the doctor says she's ahead of the game as far as words go...we've got "dog" and "duck" which pretty much sound identical ("doe" and "duh" respectively) and get a little obnoxious because EVERYTHING falls into one of those two categories. She also loves to say "all done". She's starting to say "ba-bye"...but only when she wants to. If you ask her where her belly button is, she'll touch it. If you ask her to pick something up and bring it to you, she usually does. Her newest accomplishment...when you say "big girl" she raises her arms over her head - I'm still trying to catch this one on camera.

We've turned her carseat around to face the front - YIPPEE! She just stares out the window at all she's been missing. She's now off formula and has started whole milk and more solid foods...which she is ECSTATIC about. Tonight was goulash - and she LOVED it. So far, this girl loves food of any kind. Now it's getting her familar with using a spoon so she can feed herself (Mommy has high hopes). She has her 4 front top teeth and almost 4 front bottom teeth (3 are in and the 4th is on it's way)...with more coming. YIKES!

And I guess that about sums it up. I'm sure there's a ton of stuff I'm missing...it seems like every day she's surprising me with something else she's learned. It's hard for me to keep up. Now it's time for me to take a few minutes for myself...before the little Monkey needs to wake up and take a bath...ahhhh...the joys of Mommyhood! I LOVE IT :)

Below is a slideshow of pictures from her party and other more recent ones...

10 Month Update

2007-12-27T12:24:00.000-07:00

Rya turned 10 months on Christmas Day (I'm a little late, but the Holidays were pretty hectic). We had a blast watching her try to unwrap all of her presents. I had to clean out her closet and her play area to accomodate all the new stuff. She really is spoiled rotten :)

She's walking more and more every day. She always wants to run but ends up plopping down on her bottom. Speed is not quite her thing yet - but it'll come soon, I'm sure. She points at EVERYTHING! That's not an exaggeration either. If you're holding her she'll find something to point at...sometimes with both hands pointing in opposite directions (sort of like the scarecrow in Wizard of Oz).

She's also mastered the technique of dropping something and then saying "Uh-oh". As you can imagine, this happens pretty frequently now. She's got a few new words...one of them being "Art". When she started pointing, Roy would take her up to the artwork on our walls and tell her "art". Now just about everything is "art"...even the pot from her new kitchen set. The other new word is "Alex" (after our female Chihuahua). She actually calls both of our dogs and even her toy dog all "Alex". The newest word is "UP" which I'm sure will catch on very quickly - lucky me - ha! It's pretty amazing to watch her try to pick up new words...she'll sit there and watch your mouth as you talk like she's taking it all in. Smart little bugger :)

She's got all four of her front teeth now - both top and bottom. We've started her on more solid foods and some table foods from our plates. She eats anything...Debra at daycare has to watch her around the older kid's food because she'll take stuff right out of their hands (things like gummy bears and raisins that she can't have yet).

And...if you've watched the latest video, she now loves to dance. Any time she hears music, she'll start bouncing or moving front to back. It's really cute :) Debra also has a Tigger toy that bounces and when he starts going, all the kids start bouncing up and down...haha! I need to catch that on video.

I think that about covers it. It seems like in the past week she's just learned a TON of new stuff. She really amazes me with how fast she learns. Mommy and Daddy are so PROUD :)

Just a short one...

2007-12-09T20:51:00.000-07:00

Hello family - just a short picture update, then it's off to bed. The first picture isn't really of Rya at all, but thought you might like to see who we got to meet...

Yuppers - that's us with DANE COOK 12/6/07!!

Rya's first visit with Santa - she was captivated by him

Awwww!

So that concludes this edition of picture update. Stay tuned for more later this week ;)

9 Month Check-Up

2007-11-26T21:41:00.000-07:00

She's 9 months already...can you believe it?! I can't!! Craziness.

So, here's the scoop: She's 18 pounds 4 oz (just under the 50th percentile - blame it on the teething). Her head measurement is 17.5 inches which is in the 50th percentile. She's 29.5 inches long which puts her...are you ready for this...in the 95th percentile!!! WHOA BABY! Can we say TALL?? Mommy's little model - ha!

She's clapping and walking and eating regular foods like a pro. She's ahead of the game and Mommy and Daddy couldn't be any prouder (um...more proud??...whatever, you get the point!).

Now we're anxously waiting for the big 1 year mark. That means no more formula and on to whole milk - yay! I can only imagine what she'll be doing in another 3 months. She'll probably be creating her own Blog and chatting with all of you...LOL

Picture takin' fools...

2007-11-23T16:12:00.000-07:00

Here is a picture update. Rya turns 9 months this coming Sunday, with her doc appointment on Monday. You can expect another update then :)

She poses like a model :)

Look close - there are 2 teethies there!

Her new jumper

When diapers don't work...

Here are a couple slideshows - the first from Mexico the second from Thanksgiving:

Some pictures from Saturday night...

2007-11-12T15:22:00.000-07:00

One of Roy's employees turned 21 on Saturday so we all went bowling. Here is a slideshow of some pictures that were taken...

Rya's First Halloween

2007-11-02T19:43:00.001-07:00

Just a few pictures from Rya's first Halloween. We all had a blast :)

Rya's First Halloween

2007-11-02T19:43:00.000-07:00

Dorothy & Toto

Ms. LadyBug

The McCormacks

Aunt Carlene & Rya

My little cutie

Rya and Cousin Josh

Rya & Debra - her daycare provider

Yeah - the dogs had costumes too

She LOVES to clap!

Just the girls

Can we all say World Peace?

Awww...the Mr. & Mrs.

She was in awe of the witch

She's getting so BIG!

My co-workers...(boss is in the middle)

She loves Caden

Ha - looks like she's trying to take off his pants

Her Halloween onesie

All the excitement wore her out

Sleepy little ladybug!

October Picture Update

2007-10-09T12:42:00.000-07:00

Here is a short slide show with the latest and greatest pictures of Rya Faith. We got her play area set up and it's SOOO cute. Now she has a safe place to play, and if she takes a tumble, doesn't get any major injuries. She got her first cold and fever on Thursday thanks to daycare (gotta love mothers who refuse to medicate their sick child) and then Roy had it by Saturday. Luckily, I've been given a reprieve this time around **fingers crossed**. She's started using a sippy cup - doesn't quite have the hang of it yet, but we're working on it. She also waved "hello" for the first time on Saturday, but that's still pretty irregular at this point. It was more of a mimick action than really understanding what it meant - though it was still cute :) We're gearing up for Halloween, which is just around the corner...can't wait. Stay tuned for tons of pics of Rya in her first costume :)

7 months old and growing...

2007-09-25T10:09:00.000-07:00

My baby girl is 7 months old today! We've passed the halfway mark and are heading for that BIG milestone...1 YEAR. Geesh, I'm not sure I'm ready for that :) Thank goodness I have 5 more months to prepare...though if they go as fast as these last 7 months, it won't make a difference.

As for Rya...she's doing fabulously. She's crawling, pulling herself up on everything to stand up, babbling all the time, letting me know when she's NOT happy, and so much more. She's a smart one...at daycare, there is a walker that has a tray on front where Debra keeps small snacks for the kids (Cheerios, Fruit Loops, etc.). Well, Rya sees the older kids grab stuff all day long and finally decided that she wanted to give it a go. Debra looked over and there was Rya with a handful of Cheerios. We're not giving her solid foods like that yet, but I guess she decided that she was ready for them anyways (even with no teeth). We'll see how all that goes. Baby food doesn't seem to be all that appealing to her (with the exception of apple sauce and sweet potatoes - she LOVES those 2 things) so I might call the pediatrician and see what's ok for her to have.

And...as always...a few pictures that we've taken lately. We're hoping to get our living room set up with a giant area rug and some gates so she can have her own little safe play area with all of the toys we're starting to collect. I'll make sure to take pics when we finally have it set up.

Her new Leap Frog Toy...

We got it off Craigslist at 50% off the original price :)

Yup - still sucking the thumb and holding her "blankie"

Her and Alex are still bestest buds

She decided that she needed to explore under her bouncer...Mom went into a panic because she didn't see her right away :)

This is Rya with Uncle Nic (Roy's sister Michelle's boyfriend). She adores him...

and his hat too :) We just might need to find her a little hat of her own.

And finally - a picture of my 2 favorite people :)

More, more, more...

2007-09-17T14:38:00.000-07:00

Just a quick picture update...she's growing up SO fast!!

This is what Dad found when he got her out of the car - she was completely ASLEEP!

Her new ducky tub

She LOVES the little plastic duck!!

One of her cool onesies created by Jen

Can we say ATTITUDE??

EVERYTHING goes in the mouth!!

Getting ready for "school" (aka daycare)

The other cool onesie from Jen

We're gonna get the matching bow-headbands too :)

Her new V-Tech nursery rhyme book...she loves it!

Her new walker we got on Craigslist for $10!!

Mommy's little HAM :)

Our Labor Day Mini-Vacation

2007-09-04T10:36:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, we dropped our dogs off at Roy's sister Carlene's and the three of us headed up to Sedona for a couple days. It was an amazing trip - and the city is BEAUTIFUL!! Took lots of pictures and wanted to share them with everyone. A (long) slideshow is below :)

At the Half Year Mark :)

2007-08-30T10:59:00.000-07:00

So, today was the day...6 month check-up and all is well. She's 27 inches long (still between the 75-90th percentiles) and weighed in at 15 pounds 13 ounces (50th percentile). She LOVED the paper that they put on the table...she kept crumpling it up and playing with it. I don't think I've EVER seen her that excited about any of her toys...LOL :)

She showed off her newest skills for the doctor - she crawled on the table and kept sitting up all by herself. The doctor said that she's "advanced" (her words, not mine - though I'm still a proud mama) since they don't expect to see those skills until the 9 month mark. Every time I try to get her crawling on video, she stops and stares at the camera - little Bugger!

I asked about her belly button (it pops WAY out when she's sitting up or using her belly muscles) and all is normal...it should go away by 12 months or so. Her chest is still fine - the indent is SLOWLY becoming less noticeable...and will probably only be a "cosmetic" issue if anything. She's ready to start oatmeal and fruits now too...so that will be exciting. Got 2 shots in each leg...cried of course, but once again with a little infant Tylenol she'll be sleepy (fingers crossed) most of the day.

Last night I walked in to her room and there she was...standing against the railing!! I caught her on video about 5 minutes before this trying to pull herself up, but her leg got stuck between the slats so I figured I was safe. Then I walk back in and BINGO - she had figured it out!! Smart little cookie!! Needless to say, Roy lowered her mattress down a couple notches just to put my mind at ease.

And one last milestone for ya (I'm WAY excited about this one)...the last 2 nights she's slept through the night - WooHoo!! Put her to bed at 8:30pm last night and she was STILL sleeping at 7am. She's learned how to soothe herself too...yesterday morning when I got up to check on her because I realized she never woke up for a bottle, she was sitting up in her crib just looking around and talking. Did I mention that I'm REALLY excited about this development?? HA!

So - that's the latest and greatest. My little girl is growing up and learning things at an INCREDIBLE pace. Every time I get used to a routine, it goes and changes on me. Part of the joys of parenthood I guess. Can't wait to see what the next 6 months bring. Stay tuned...
Here are Rya's 6 month pictures that were taken at JC Penney:

Yay for new cameras :)

2007-08-18T13:46:00.000-07:00

Roy bought me a new camera on Friday...so, of course I had to test it out :)

With a bow in her hair...

2007-08-17T10:44:00.000-07:00

I took these pictures yesterday morning. It was the first time I actually put a bow in her hair - ha! All dressed up and ready for daycare...yeah, it was too cute not to capture with the digital camera :)

They say I'm picture happy...

2007-08-12T09:58:00.000-07:00

They'd be right - HA! She's just growing so fast that I want to make sure everyone stays up-to-date...so...ENJOY :)

LOVE this onesie - hahaha

Gotta love the Dirty Dancing inspired onesie too!

Look at those cheeks!

Playing with her bestest pal, Alex

Aren't they just too cute?!?

Lov'n her jumperoo!!

Play'n in her crib

All smiles :)

Try'n to burrow into Daddy

Finally able to use her spiffy highchair

This picture reminds me of Uncle Terry for some reason

Peas didn't go over as well as carrots...

Ewwww...hahaha!

Rya playing with Caden at Daycare...he likes to entertain her :)

Glad to be home...

2007-08-01T14:21:00.000-07:00

Here is a slide show of TONS of pictures from our vacation. Enjoy :)

A few pictures before we head off to vacation...

2007-07-23T19:02:00.000-07:00

We'll be back in a week with TONS, no OODLES, of new pictures :)

She fell asleep like this in the car - my driving had nothing to do with it

Happy Baby

R.F.M.

Daddy was spinning her around in the chair

We were packing and she wanted to join in...

Just when you thought there couldn't possibly be more...

2007-07-13T21:05:00.000-07:00

Rya was just SUPER DUPER happy tonight so we took some pics and thought we'd share :)

Rya's First 4th of July

2007-07-09T14:59:00.000-07:00

We had a GREAT 4th of July - even if it was 115 degrees outside :) Here are some pics :

My Patriotic Baby Girl

Wearing the pretty blue dress from Grandma Becky

Smiling up at Emily :)

Sportin' Paco's sunglasses!

We LOVE her travel crib!!

And it's July...

2007-07-01T19:20:00.000-07:00

Well, here we are - July already! This year is just flying by. We're gearing up for our trip to IL at the end of the month. Should be loads of fun!

As always...more pictures for your viewing pleasure :)

Really starting to enjoy her jumperoo

Look what I can do!

Gotta love FEETSIES!

Hello Blue Eyes

Chill'n in her Bumbo Seat

What would I do without her swing??

Toe Fetish

2007-06-26T16:36:00.000-07:00

Just a couple pictures of Rya's new past time - sucking on her toe. YUM!

Happy 4 Month Birthday Rya!

2007-06-25T12:50:00.000-07:00

Rya is 4 months old TODAY! I can't believe it. Our little girl is growing up soooo fast. She had her 4 month check up this morning. 2 nasty shots in each leg...poor thing! She was a trooper though - even got cute little Bugs Bunny band aids.

She now weighs 14 pounds...which is in the 50th percentile - right where she should be. Her head measurement was 16 - just at the 50th percentile. She's now 26.5 inches long - which puts her OFF THE CHARTS!! She's soooo long. The doctor said she's going to take after daddy...ha! The doctor was also VERY impressed that Rya's already rolling front to back/back to front and starting to commando crawl. She's ahead of the curve there too.

She's really starting to reach for and grasp objects now. Her favorites are her plastic rattle that she loves to shove in her mouth and her Baby Einstein turtle with the teethers on the end. She's been in the pool a couple times now and is starting to love the water. Still have to be careful with the sun since we can't use sunblock for another 2 months.

The other big change is that we get to start rice cereal today. This should be interesting! Then next month, it's on to vegetables. Fun stuff!

The doctor is still monitoring her sternum (chest). Right now it's not bothering her and she's growing normally. They'll continue to watch it and may decide to take xrays later on if it becomes an issue. Most of the time it becomes less noticeable as the child gets bigger.

So, that about sums up our news for the day. We've got a beautiful, healthy baby girl who's growing like a weed. Now we're just anxiously awaiting our trip to Rockford to see friends and family...CAN'T WAIT :)

Happy Father's Day

2007-06-18T18:32:00.000-07:00

A picture of Roy and Rya wearing Roy's Father's Day present :) I think she just woke up, which is why she looks so ticked off - HA!

Braggin' Again...

2007-06-16T09:11:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I'm simply amazed when I look at Rya. How fast she's growing, how quickly she's learning about the world around her, the wonder in her eyes as she takes everything in and how you can slowly see the comprehension and recollection.

As a very proud new Mommy, I thought I'd update you on the latest. She's now rolling over back to front, front to back. She's got the continuous roll thing going on. That tends to be pretty interesting since she'll end up quite a ways away from where you set her down. Then the other day I set her down on her blanket (actually, it's Aunt Michelle's blanket that Rya has sort of taken over). She was on her back "watching" whatever happened to be on TV. I walked into the kitchen to get something, came back, and there she was...about 3-4 feet from where I had left her...with her head hanging over the blanket's edge. Now, ok...so she can roll left and right - we know this, that's why we set her in the middle of the blanket. But I couldn't figure out how she had managed to scoot UP the blanket as well.

Turns out...Rya has learned to commando crawl. She pushes off the floor with her feet and uses her forearm or hands to drag herself forward. She doesn't get very far yet, but I have a feeling true crawling is only days away. When I got her out of her crib this morning, she was on her belly, with her face in the corner of her crib. Sarah - if the bumper hadn't been there, I would've gotten to experience the "jailbird" effect you told me about .

Anyways...that's the exciting news here. My little girl is almost CRAWLING already!! Geesh...she'll be asking for my car keys before I know it! :)

Pictures from yesterday's party

2007-06-10T11:07:00.000-07:00

Here you go...a day of fun in the sun at Renee and Paco's housewarming party :)

3 Month Professional Pics

2007-06-01T11:27:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday, I took Rya to JC Penney to have her 3 month pictures taken. They did an AWESOME job. A few of my favorites are below.

Proud Mommy!

2007-05-31T09:01:00.000-07:00

Rya is now 3 months old (can you believe it??) and has perfected her first major milestone. She has rolled over from back to front. It happened a few days ago but wasn't happening consistently. HOWEVER...last night she rolled over again...and again...and again. Now I can't get her to stop. You stick her on her back and within seconds she's on her tummy. We'll have to see what happens tonight when she's goes to sleep.

So, yeah...everything here is just peachy! As always...stay tuned for the latest & greatest in the life of Rya Faith :)

Look at the pretty camera...

What did you just say?

I'm SOOOO tired!

Yeah, we love each other :)

Mommy, I'm not ready to wake up yet!

Playin' around with her favorite pal, Alex :)

Chill'n on the LA-Z-BOY

So sue me...

2007-05-24T09:33:00.000-07:00

I know - I probably go a little overboard with all the pictures...but I'm a new Mommy! What do you expect?? Haha...ENJOY (or not...it's totally up to you!)

Mama Love <3

Eat my feet Daddy (personally, one of my new favorites)

The highly anticipated (and much loved) Bumbo Seat

Lov'n her activity mat

I'm in the jungle baby - yeah!

I guess it was inevitable...

2007-05-19T19:42:00.000-07:00

Yup - the inevitable has happened. Rya has recently discovered her thumbs and wasted no time putting them to use. Mommy is trying to break this nasty habit by giving her a pacifier, but I fear that it is all in vain. Daddy sucked his thumb FOREVER! If anyone has any tips, I'm open to them!!

Yes, it's cute...BUT...I can take a pacifier away...a thumb I can't!!

Geez...even in her sleep! What's a mom to do??

And it's heating up...

2007-05-18T13:07:00.000-07:00

Yup - I know I live in AZ, but to already be in the triple digits is just crazy! It's only MAY!! But, nevertheless, we have been averaging about 101 degrees the last couple of weeks. It's not too bad yet...though I'm hoping this doesn't mean even WARMER temps this summer...YIKES :)

Here are some updated pics for you all...as if I'd post an update with out pics...GEESH! As you can see, I've got a new car - the 2 door Civic was just too much of a hassle with only 2 doors and lugging Rya in and out of it. So yeah...here ya go:

Gotta love cell phone cameras :)

Mama's little monkey

Dancing Baby :)

The new ride - 2002 Jeep Liberty LTD

Black, sunroof, 6 disc CD changer, not to mention the much appreciated 4 doors

As if there aren't enough...

2007-05-09T21:05:00.000-07:00

Now here's a few more for you...

She LOVES watching IDOL...this is her reaction to Simon (no, seriously!)

Rya sleeping with her puppy :)

Her new Jumperoo

Not quite sure what to think yet...

Close up

A little picture happy...

2007-05-05T10:53:00.000-07:00

Just a quick slide show of some pictures I took this morning.

What do you think?

2007-05-03T15:28:00.000-07:00

What do you think? Is she starting to look even the tinsiest bit like me?? At all?? Look really hard...can't you see it?? NO?? Hmm...I could have sworn there was something there!

Just a little "Tummy Time"...but she's finding more enjoyment in sucking on her fist. Oh well...

2 Months already - can you believe it??

2007-04-25T12:50:00.000-07:00

I LOVE SQUINTY BABY GRINS!!

Rya had her 2 month check up today. She's up to 11.5 pounds (I think she's actually closer to 12, but she wouldn't stay still on the scale) and 23.5 inches long - almost TWO FEET!! She was not very happy about getting 4 shots (1 in her arm, 1 in her left leg, and 2 in her right leg), but went right to sleep when we got her in the car (Mommy also had the foresight to give her a little Infant Tylenol before we went to the appointment to head off some of the fussiness and fever that might pop up later today or tomorrow). The new doc did mention that there is a slight indentation where her sternum is - probably from her rib cage forming slightly inward. I guess it's pretty common and isn't too much of a concern since Rya is, overall, a very healthy baby. They'll keep an eye on it and do an x-ray at 4 or 6 months just to see how far inward it formed, but it still shouldn't be an issue. I guess Roy has something similar but his formed outward, so it might be a genetic thing. Could be that she grows out of it too...afterall, she was awfully crammed in mommy's tummy!

I can't believe it's been 2 months already! It seems like just yesterday we were waiting so eagerly for her to arrive and now she's growing faster than we can keep up with! I actually had to go out and buy some 3-6 month sleepers and onesies because she's getting too long for her 0-3 month stuff. Shoot - she's even almost too long for her changing table...it's CRAZY! We've gotten into a pretty good bedtime routine and she's sleeping about 6-7 hours a night now, then goes back down for another 2 or so after being fed and changed. Yeah, I know...I'm pretty lucky :)

Anyways...that's the update for now. Rya is doing fabulously and is now anxiously awaiting the arrival of Auntie Renee here sometime next week. YAY :) Hope everyone's week is going well! Take care and baby kisses to all :)

Mama and Rya

Little Miss Rya

Baby Withdrawal

2007-04-19T15:53:00.000-07:00

What is it about this time of day that I start getting melancholy? Then I get irritable because I'm melancholy. Then I get tired because I'm just sick of being melancholy and irritable.

I'm going to call it baby withdrawal. The act of leaving one's newborn child with someone else appears to be the cause of this phenomenon.

Obviously I'm back to work after 8 weeks of maternity leave. Don't get me wrong...I LOVE my job! The people have become like a second family to me and I make decent money and have awesome insurance. It's just that I don't feel like I'm where I should be when I'm at work during the day. It's like the other piece of my heart is calling out to me, telling me that I need to come and collect it so that I feel whole again. Then I get home and have a few short hours before it's time to get my little one bathed and into bed (yeah...I'm trying to create a little bedtime routine for Rya - Baby Einstein Lullaby Classics included).

Now - most would think that this is just the normal separation anxiety that any new mother would feel upon returning to work. Then I guess you could call me abnormal (you can keep the sarcastic replies to this statement to yourself thank you!) because it feels so much more intense then just simple separation anxiety. Maybe I just need to accept the fact that I will never be a millionaire (no matter how many PowerBall tickets Roy buys) and that I will forever be part of the average working household (no matter how many times I try to come up with some ridiculous scheme that would allow me to stay at home with Rya - Paco pointed out that the tanning salon owner idea was a little unrealistic - BUMMER!).

WARNING: FEMINIST MOVEMENT BASH COMING IN 3...2...1...

I mean seriously - why did some chick have to go and fuck it up for the rest of us women who would be perfectly content to stay at home and raise our children and take care of our families? Ok...yeah, so we get to vote and we get supposed equal workplace rights. Oh...the freedom to speak our minds is a good thing too I suppose, otherwise I wouldn't even be voicing these thoughts right now...but still! Big deal! I want the right to sit on my fat ass and play on the internet all day if I so choose. Hmm...actually that wouldn't really help that fat ass problem now would it? Well, I could try and promise to go for walks and maybe meet up with other mother's in the area - there - that's better! And I suppose I could get used to having dinner ready when the husband got home from his hard day. See - I'm willing to make concessions! Sometimes I wish I could just have a conversation with the person who started all of this and tell them how their actions have changed society and how most children are being raised by people other than their parents. I'm still a firm believer that children are the way they are today from lack of parental guidance. Not necessarily neglect, but simple lack of time due to busy work schedules and daily life. Ok, Ok...enough before my head explodes.

So that leaves me here - typing this blog that people will probably read and assume that I'm being overly dramatic. Well :P to you (that's me sticking out my tongue in case you didn't get it). I'm entitled to my feelings - no matter how irrational they may be.

See...there I go. The irritability is setting in again. TO BE CONTINUED...

Crib Sleeping 101

2007-04-03T09:43:00.000-07:00

Rya is now officially sleeping in her crib. She had grown too long for the bassinet and it was time to move her to her own room, and own bed. It's funny because she looks so little in her crib...it's adorable. The first night was a little rocky, but last night was AWESOME! She slept for 7 and a half hours straight, then was fed and changed and went right back to sleep for another 4 hours. Of course, I had to get up around the 6.5 hour mark to make sure she was still ok...haha. Hopefully this sleep pattern is a sign of good things to come...like sleeping through the night...one can only hope :)

We had family pictures taken yesterday along with Rya's 1 month pics. Will try to get them scanned in and posted when we pick them up at the end of the month.

Other than that, all is well. Rya is growing everyday and getting more and more personality. She's grinning more often and has major neck control. She's even come close to rolling over to her belly a couple times - which is insane! We have a really strong little girl. I head back to work in 2 weeks. I can't believe how fast time flew by! We have an interview with a possible daycare on Wednesday evening, so say a prayer that this works out.

Hope everyone enjoys their week! HAPPY EASTER :)

How fast they grow...

2007-03-28T11:42:00.000-07:00

Family visits are keeping us pretty busy this week. First Grandma Becky and Grandpa Ron were here to spoil Rya, now Grandma Laurie and Grandpa Greg are taking over. Now just got word that Cousin Charlie will be here to meet our little one. Pretty exciting stuff.

Just had Rya's 1 month doc visit. She's perfectly healthy...already up to 10 pounds and has grown an inch! She's in the 75th percentile for length. Yup...she's going to be a tall one (sorry Uncle Terry..haha)!! She finally lost her umbilicial cord about 4 days ago! It was pretty GROSS! Rya also got to go on her first boat ride Monday. She LOVED it! Slept the entire time...haha! And before you freak out on me for bringing a 1 month old out on a boat...I got the doctor's approval :) Other than that all is well. About 2 weeks left until I go back to work. Still haven't found a daycare so keep your fingers crossed for us!

Now, as promised, here are a couple updated slideshows for you all. They're pretty long...sorry :)

And even more...

2007-03-20T11:14:00.000-07:00

So I'm seriousy thinking about staying in my house and away from the outside world until I can get my body back to some semblance of normal. We were at the grocery store the other day and there were some Girl Scouts selling cookies outside the door. One of the moms was joking with Roy and said something to the effect of buying me some cookies because "the baby will be here before we know it". She thought I was pregnant!!! I know my belly hasn't gone completely down yet (it's only been 3 weeks afterall) but man...was that depressing!!! As if I wasn't self conscious enough already...oh well...Rya is worth it all :) Some updated pics are below...

Mom and Rya

Rya's first bath

Hello Daddy...

Getting dried off

What's up Mom?

Baby got back?!

Mommy pride :)

2007-03-13T16:49:00.000-07:00

Finally...a picture with her beautiful eyes open!

Daddy and his little girl

Hello Sweet Pea :)

Quick Recap

2007-03-06T12:46:00.000-07:00

Just thought I'd repost Rya's birth info. You can also see it in the slideshow below.

Rya Faith
Born: 02/25/07 @ 4:30am via c-section
8 lbs 10.6 ounces
21 inches long

Our Little Girl

2007-03-06T12:24:00.000-07:00

Wanted to post a few pics and show off our little girl. Enjoy :)

Rya in her bouncer

She enjoys her sleep - just like mommy USED to :)

Awww...how cute is that?!

Yup - once you're a mom you'll talk about anything

2007-03-02T15:40:00.000-07:00

Well...I can honestly say that I now know what it's like to have BIG boobs...and I'm NOT liking it one bit!! Can we say OUCH!!!!!! LOL :) They progressively got bigger yesterday afternoon and night...Roy thought I was lying until he actually saw them...HAHAHA...you should have seen his face! It was like - instant boob job!

Other than that, we're all doing fine. Rya had her first doc appointment yesterday. She's in good health. The doc mentioned something about her hips "clicking" and suggested we use 2 diapers at a time to help. They'll check her in a week and see if it's gone away as it could have been from the rough delivery. Her appetite is definitely increasing...she went from a consistent 1.5 ounces to an average of 3 ounces a feeding. Little chunker :) She's still really good and is sleeping about 4-5 hours at a time (YAY). I'm slowly starting to feel better...though it will be awhile before I can walk COMPLETELY normal.

Now it's all about settling into life with a newborn...and I couldn't be more EXCITED!!! :)

Our Birth Story

2007-02-28T14:10:00.000-07:00

Warning: This will probably be very long and in some parts graphic.

It's been a VERY long week folks! I was supposed to be induced on Thursday, the 22nd, but the hospital was full and couldn't get me in. It became a waiting game and left me very frustrated. The hospital finally called me back at 8:00pm on Friday night. They started me on Cervadil and basically told me to go to sleep.

By shift change the next morning, I still had no progress and was extremely thirsty (the over night nurse wouldn't let me have anything but ice chips). When the day nurse came in she quickly brought me some water and removed the cervadil. From there, things started picking up. Contractions were getting strong very quickly. At about 1pm I opted for the epidural (and boy...do I swear by those!!). Shortly after that they broke my water. Things continued to progress through out the afternoon, but somewhere along the line I developed a fever. By the time night came, I had still only dilated to 9cm and was receiving antibiotics for the 101.3 fever that was now a royal pain in my ass. They also discovered that Rya was posterior (head down, but face up) instead of anterior (head down, face down). They shifted me onto my belly (which was NOT comfortable) hoping that the baby would shift. I also started feeling this extreme burning sensation on my belly anytime I would move or if something brushed up against me. Eventually, they realized that the contraction monitor was the cause and when they moved it, it was an immediate release. It had dug in to my belly and was causing the pain.

I had been in the hospital for 24 hours by this point. I was tired, sore from sitting in bed for so long, and now having chills because of the fever. As it got later and later, the doc gave me one more hour to try and push to get the baby out on my own. Needless to say, it didn't happen and I was getting prepped for my c-section in the blink of an eye. I'd never had surgery before and was pretty nervous. The drugs I was given caused my body to shake uncontrollably (which is normal for some people). Roy was sitting to my side, holding my hand the entire time. I could feel the pressure of what was happening, but no pain. When she was finally pulled out, Roy got to take some pictures and cut the umbilical cord. Because I had a fever, Rya was brought over to the nursery to start her own set of antibiotics just in case I transferred anything over to her.

While Roy was in the nursery, I was put to sleep because I couldn't stop the shaking and I was starting to get nauseous. Afterward, the doctor told me that my uterus was not hardening and contracting after birth like it was supposed to and that it took them a long time to get it functioning properly again. If they hadn't been able to, it would have meant a hysterectomy for me...YIKES! Obviously, I was very lucky and have a GREAT doctor!!

I'm healing pretty quickly, but am still incredibly sore. I'm lucky I got to go home so early...I guess during the c-section I lost a lot of blood. When they drew more yesterday, my blood count had dropped and there was talk of possibly having a blood transfusion. When the doctor came in to talk to me, she said that she was happy with my progress, and that if I didn't want the transfusion that was fine. It was my call. By this point, I just wanted to be home with my little girl, and didn't want to face any of the risks involved with the transfusion.

So...that brings me to today. I'm at home with my little girl, and while walking and sleeping are still incredibly uncomfortable, I feel a little better every day. The dogs are adjusting to life with a baby, and are constantly looking into her bassinet and will start whining when she cries. It's cute.

Roy has been absolutely WONDERFUL! I'm extremely limited with what I can do and he's taken on more responsibilty than either of us had expected. For the next 6 weeks I can only pick up Rya - nothing else per doctors orders. I can't drive for a couple weeks either, so I'm going to be relying on him pretty heavily. But, all in all things went well and now we have our beautiful little girl. These are exciting times in the McCormack household!!

A slideshow is posted below with tons of cute photos. Enjoy :)

Some slide shows for you all

2007-02-09T19:47:00.000-07:00

I laugh in the face of bedrest...hahaha!

2007-02-07T12:10:00.000-07:00

Ok, so maybe "laugh" isn't the right word. I was actually sort of freaking out, wondering how my boss would take the news...but I'm ahead of myself here...

As you've probably guessed, I had an appointment this morning. Everything is still good. I'm almost completely effaced (it basically means thinned out)...and have just started dilating...I'm at about 1 now (on a scale from 0-10). Haven't really had too many contractions, so who knows when things will really kick into gear.

I've mentioned in previous blogs that they've been monitoring the baby's size. They snuck me in for another ultrasound today and Rya is still right on track - they said she was weighing in at...HAHA...nope, I can't put it in here. I'm having a weight guessing contest on my MySpace page and some of those people also check this blog...sorry :) But boy...was I surprised. Her belly is still the biggest measurement which means that instead of worrying about trying to push her head out, I may have to worry about the belly instead...LOL. They said she's a BIG eater...yeah, just like Daddy ;)

Anyways...they also noticed that her fluid level had dropped (the amount of fluid surrounding her) and was right on the edge of being too low. The nurse practitioner asked the doctor and they decided to give me a week to bring up the level of fluid (by drinking LOTS of water and taking 3 baths a day)...OR...they'd put me on bedrest for the remainder of the pregnancy. While there's really only 3 weeks to go, I'd still rather be able to be up as much as possible...NOT confined to the bed. Especially since I still feel pretty good.

So, I have my next appointment a week from today with another ultrasound scheduled. For some reason, I have this feeling that she may be here next week...but what do I know?? The nursery is finished...just have to hang the art work. I've gotten all her clothes, blankets, wash clothes, etc washed and ready to go. Carlene is throwing me a shower this Saturday...and I know that part of the plan is to get the "essentials" ...since I'm still short a few important items. After that, Rya could come at any time and we'd be ready...or at least as ready as new parents can be. I'm totally ready to meet our little girl right now...but of course, this is one time in life where I can not maneuver this to my liking :)

As always...keep your eyes posted for the latest and greatest news. I'll try to get the slides of the nursery and my shower gifts up shortly :) Enjoy the rest of your week everyone!!

And we've arrived at the weekly appointments

2007-01-31T19:21:00.000-07:00

So here we are with less than 30 days to go. The doc today said that everything is still looking good. I'm still measuring bigger than my due date, but since the ultrasound last week showed Rya was right on target, they aren't too concerned. I did ask about induction...and because I've been measuring big, they think it's justifiable to be induced on my due date rather than letting me go over. The risk of the baby growing too big and the increased risk of a c-section if I were to go much past my due date would be greater and I'm not really willing to risk it. They'll monitor Rya's growth over the next couple of weeks and may even decide to induce me earlier than March 1st if needed. Definitely stay tuned for up to date information on the expectant birth of Rya Faith.

Otherwise, I'm feeling pretty good. Rya is moving like crazy, and there are moments where I'm sure she's going to push her own way out of my tummy! Those little elbows (or knees or whatever) pack a punch...let me tell you :)

Ultrasound Update

2007-01-25T19:28:00.000-07:00

Hello avid readers!

Just a quick update - we had an ultrasound this afternoon. Rya is measuring exactly where she should be...although the tech said her belly is the biggest measurement. I told Roy that she is definitely taking after him haha! She weighed in at approx. 5 lbs, so we should be looking at somewhere between 6-7 lbs at birth. I think I can handle that. I'll go over all of the results with my doc at my next appointment on Wednesday. You can expect another update then. The pics we got weren't very good...mostly because she's so squished in there. Didn't really see a need to post them, as even I can barely tell what I'm looking at.

Everything else is good...have been feeling pretty uncomfortable, but nothing I can't handle (though Roy may have to listen to a little more whining than normal - poor Roy!) The nursery has stalled a bit until we get the changing table delivered. Should be here sometime in the next couple of weeks - and THEN we will finally be able to get it completed.

And that about covers it folks. Hope everyone has a great weekend! Stay safe and have fun!!

Just an update...

2007-01-18T09:35:00.000-07:00

Just a few quick updates. I had a doc appointment yesterday. They say I'm measuring further along than previously thought...so a week from today I go for another ultrasound to see how big our Little Rya has gotten. If you haven't noticed...I'm HUGE (see below)! Not sure what they'll do if she's bigger than expected...guess we'll have to wait and find out. Everything else was fine...her heart rate was good and my blood pressure is still normal. The doc said that some of the pressure and weird pains I've been feeling could be irregular contractions...but nothing major.

We had our last childbirth prep class last night. Got a lot of information on c-sections and epidurals. Roy almost passed out when he saw the needle they use (seriously...he got all red and had to look away). When the lady passed it around, he had to turn his head and cover his eyes when I was check'n it out...LOL! Yeah, he's not allowed to be around when that time comes. I don't need him falling to the floor!

The nursery is coming along...should have it completed in the next week or so if I can get motivated :)

That's about it. Everything is just chugging along and each day brings us that much closer to holding our little girl for the first time. Pretty exciting stuff if you ask me. Oh, and here's an updated picture for you all...taken last night :)

Some baby stuff...

2006-12-26T17:21:00.000-07:00

Here is a collection of random photos...some of the larger items that we have for Rya, her room, and a couple pics of me at 30 weeks and 5 days - shocking stuff :)

We're doing hardwood in her room, so the crib will be set up in a couple weeks. We're also working on getting the rest of the decorations for her room finished. It's been slow going, but we'll get it done eventually :)

3D/4D Ultrasounds ROCK :)

2006-12-14T10:40:00.000-07:00

We've arrived...at the Third Trimester

2006-12-07T11:05:00.000-07:00

I'm 28 weeks today folks. That means that I'm officially in the third trimester and have less than 3 months to go before little Rya arrives. The nursery isn't painted (though it should be this Saturday - Roy...are you reading this!! I said SATURDAY...haha!!), the crib isn't set up, there are still a BILLION things we need and maybe, just maybe...I'm starting to panic a little. There's so much to get done, and so much going on with the holidays and all that I'm just hoping everything falls into place with as little hassle as possible.

Where did the first 6 months go? It's a little hard to imagine that in less than 3 months I will be a MOMMY! I'll be fully responsible for another life...and that's just a tad bit scary (wonderful, but scary). I think I'm up to the challenge :)

I'm grateful for all the support I've had through this experience! I can't wait for Rya to arrive so she can be introduced to the TERRIFIC family and friends we have. She's going to be completely blessed!

90 days and counting...

2006-12-01T10:40:00.000-07:00

Wow...I can't believe how fast time is flying by. I saw the ticker on my page this morning and it says I only have 90 days to go. WOWSERS! Technically, it could be even less than that if Rya decides she wants to arrive early. There's so much to do before then that it's a little overwhelming...but I'm so anxious to finally get to hold her!

As you can see from my pictures, I've gotten pretty big. If you saw me from the back, you probably wouldn't even know that I was pregnant. The side view, however, is a little bit frightening . It's gotten to the point where I have to wear Roy's t-shirts to bed because none of mine will fit comfortably over my belly. We've also had a cold front come through the last couple of days with the highs around 55 degrees or so...I've had to wear Roy's fleece jackets because none of mine were big enough to zip in front. I'm still pretty comfortable, and feeling pretty good. I put socks on today for the first time in MONTHS, and that was ALOT harder than I remember it being...bending over is becoming almost imposssible because my belly gets in the way...haha!

I have my next doctor appointment on Tuesday - which starts the "every two weeks" schedule. I also get to take the lovely glucose test to check for diabetes...fun stuff! Then, on Dec. 12th, we're getting a 3D/4D ultrasound done. I can't wait!! I'll post the pics and possibly the video up for everyone's viewing pleasure.

Oh, and not only am I excited about Rya's arrival, but with that comes the arrival of family that I haven't seen in over a year. They'll get to check out our new house, the puppies, and of course, Rya. Yay :)

At the moment, life is good and that brings a smile to my face!

Are you tired of all the pictures yet??

2006-11-29T09:32:00.000-07:00

Just a few updated pictures. This is me at 26 weeks 5 days! Only about a week to go before I hit the third trimester. Supposedly this is the time when little Rya will almost triple in weight...I'm just hoping that doesn't mean that I'm going to get even BIGGER! Yikes!! :)

Ok, there's only so much stretching skin can do...

And mine is about at it's limits!!

Awww...

Thanksgiving slideshow

2006-11-24T12:31:00.000-07:00

Just thought I'd share our Thanksgiving pics with all of you! Hope everyone had a GREAT day!!

| View Show | Create Your Own

What a day...

2006-11-15T19:16:00.000-07:00

It's definitely been one of THOSE days! Work was hectic...was late for my doctor appointment (which by the way, turned out completely normal)...then, I get home and I had to pack up all of my cats things because their new owner came to pick them up. It's seriously like losing two of my babies. I'm trying to stay calm and not get too emotional, but I can't seem to stop crying. I had been having some behavioral issues with them ever since I got pregnant. The vet says it has something to do with my hormones. Still - it SUCKS!

Ok, enough whining...here are some updated pictures for you all (24 wks 5 days):

23 Week Pictures

2006-11-02T19:58:00.000-07:00

So this is me at 23 weeks. Not quite 6 months and already this big...should be some interesting pictures come 8 and 9 months!! Hahaha :)

What's in a name??

2006-10-31T09:46:00.000-07:00

So I just realized that I hadn't posted on this very important topic...

Roy and I have decided on a name. (After much debate and him telling me that my ideas were too 'old-lady sounding' - pshhhh!!).

Because McCormack is a longer last name with all the hard syllables, we wanted a first name that was short and sweet. The name we choose will actually give her Roy's initials - at least until she gets married. So what is it you ask??? Our little girl's name will be...

RYA FAITH

(pronounced Rye-a, like rye bread with a soft a)

I'm sorry - are you talking to me??

2006-10-27T12:28:00.000-07:00

What is it about pregnancy that turns your average, everyday person (ya know, the kind that would typically ignore you and move on) to the chatty, wanna-be-your-best friend type of people?? Up until recently, I led a nice quiet existence. I could walk into a store, bank, etc and go pretty much unnoticed and unbothered. Now all of a sudden everyone and their mothers are striking up conversations.

Today was a perfect example. I head to the bank on my lunch time and the teller starts asking me if I'm pregnant and is it a boy or girl - blah, blah, blah. Then she asks when I'm due. I tell her March 1st and watch as her eyes go wide. Then she says "wow, you've got a ways to go yet...there's nothin to you so I guess the baby has nowhere to go but out." I'm not sure if that's a compliment or her way of telling me "DAMN GIRL, you're HUGE!"

Less then 5 minutes later I'm standing at the Subway counter ordering my lunch. This old guy enters (yes, unfortunately it's snowbird season and they're flocking back here by the dozens) and before he takes 2 steps into the place, he shouts out - for everyone to hear - "If that's what this place does to you when you eat here, maybe I should leave now" and proceeds to point at me.

Believe it or not, I'm not terribly upset by the growing number of conversations I'm having with perfect strangers. That's probably a shocker for those of you who know me as being super quiet and shy. It will definitely be a challenge for me though, as I'm not used to opening up to people I don't know.

Guess the next step is all the weirdos who will come up and just start touching my belly. Conversation is one thing - invading my bubble is something else entirely. Maybe I should have shirts printed that say "Back away from the belly!!"

About time!

2006-10-18T09:03:00.000-07:00

Well, it took me over 2 weeks to get the ultrasound pictures scanned in (blame it on the chaos of the move and the craziness of last week). BUT - here they are for your viewing pleasure :)

20 Weeks Pic

2006-10-16T21:59:00.000-07:00

Just another update - this time with the latest Belly pic. I think I've already outgrown Mom when she was 7 mos prego with me. I've included that pic for comparison :)

The Halfway Point

2006-10-12T15:37:00.000-07:00

Well, today I reached the halfway point. Yup - I'm 20 weeks with 20 left to go. It's pretty crazy how quickly time is flying by.

Nothing new to report really. I think I may have felt our little girl move, but it hasn't been anything significant yet. I guess due to her location, it's hindering me from feeling her movements much, but that should change within the next couple of weeks when they start getting stronger.

For anyone interested, there should be more information out shortly about a possible "Internet Baby Shower". With all my friends and family scattered across the country, we thought this might be the easiest way to do it. I've started registries at a couple sites and all the info will be included. [NOTE: this is by no means a solicitation - it's only for those who have made comments about it]

Otherwise, life has been chaotic as usual. Roy is feeling pretty crappy with a severe toothache. The dentist has him on antibiotics and some pain meds to get him by until the infection is gone and he can get the treatments he needs. We don't have dental insurance, so that's going to be a hefty out-of-pocket sum.

Then, yesterday morning I was in the shower and the faucet came shooting off the wall and hit my foot. I'm thinking it's just badly bruised, but it still hurts if I walk too much or put too much pressure on it. We've got a friend coming over this morning to help us fix it. More money out of pocket!

So that's the update for now. Hope everyone is doing well. Take care and keep in touch!!

IT'S A GIRL!!

2006-10-02T16:39:00.000-07:00

Roy got his wish :) We're both absolutely ecstatic!! Now it's time to decide on a name and start shopping for adorable little things for the nursery! Wow - it was amazing to see our little girl move around and even throw some punches (which I'm not feeling yet). I hope to get the ultrasound pics up here shortly :) YAY!!!!

Totally off the subject

2006-09-23T16:49:00.000-07:00

I've had a request (well, actually it was said sarcastically, but I figured what the heck) to post some pictures of my puppy - Alex on here too. (It seems those who don't check MySpace feel left out and I just couldn't let this happen. So here they are :)

A little late

2006-09-20T20:33:00.000-07:00

This is a couple weeks late (this is me at 14 weeks) - but figured I'd post it up anyways.

This is just a few weeks later - at 17 weeks!! I'm gonna be bigger than a house!!!