SURPRISE!

So my parents planned a surprise birthday party for Ken's 35th ! I totally did not help at all! hahahaha. I was out of it for the last 3 weeks. The flu, then the tooth pulling and THEN:

friday night (April 25th) this pain travelled up my neck into my face and head and it kept coming in waves that made me cry out in pain and tears would pour down. I wasn't crying - the pain just caused the tearing up! I was at my moms and she said you better go to the hospital tonight! She was very adamant! Ken was off work at 7:00 and I had to meet him outside of mom's house so he would not see all the chili cooking going on for his surprise party. I often go to mom's after work until Ken can pick me up from there when he is off work. It works out better that way.

I was able to keep him out of the house with the "honesty policy". I told him to call me as soon as he was around the corner so I could come straight out to the car and head to the hospital. My pain was evident and sincere and he was ready and willing to take me there. The Doctor diagnosed me with bronchitus and a sinus infection! I was perscribed antibiotics and we dropped of the perscription and went grocery shopping while we waited for it to be filled.


By the time we got home the pain had increased to the point of unbearable! I could not lift my head or move. All night Friday and all day Saturday I laid in bed. I couldn't even get myself a glass of water. Ken took care of me, even to the point of making me a bath and drying me (how sweet!). At this point I WAS crying from pain! I was literally bawling!

Antibiotics kicked in just in time for Sunday morning - the day of Ken's party. I was so happy! This was my only contribution to the party! The entire two weeks mom was planning the event I was just too sick to help!

We got Ken gooood! He was so surprised! I found ways to distract him so that we would arrive late! The party was after church on Sunday. All Ken knew was that mom was having a small gathering at the house and that she wanted us to come. This is a very common thing in our lives and it didn't phase him in the slightest! I had to find ways to distract him for an hour before heading to mom and dad's after church! I was still not feeling 100% so I honestly needed to be home for Sunday evening service and watch it on-line rather than go to the church. Ken stayed to take care of me. He massaged my feet and stuff. He's such a romantic husband.

This really worked out well in favor of the surprise party! This way we were already at home and I didn't have to find an excuse to come home after church, before going to my parents, etc. After service I told Ken "I'm really not in any rush to go! People don't even start showing up until a half hour after church. Is it alright if I have a bath first?".

He was more than fine with this because he's a gamer and he wanted to play some vids! Once it was time to get going he started grumbling and griping. He didn't want to go anymore. I was just my bossy ol' self and made him go! Again, this did not phase him!

The plan was to call dad on his cell, when we were nearing the house. I was just supposed to hang up and they would know to get ready. I held the phone down low to my right and dialed the number. Just when dad answered the phone Ken began to tell a joke. I left the phone on for his enjoyment. It was just too funny!

"There was this lady who had a baby. When the doctor's were getting ready to stitch her up she asked 'could you ad a few more stitches? My husband is kinda small!'" I laughed hysterically and said "I am sure we will laugh more about this joke later".

The only contribution I made to the party were a few suggestions. One was this: ask the landlord if we can use the property next door to park everyone's cars so Ken doesn't catch on! It is a huge barn and driveway with more than enough room for eveyrone's cars. This really helped!

When we neared the house I got so nervous 'cus I could see the the 50 or so cars in the driveway next door and I was hoping Ken would not notice. He didn't!

As we approached my parent's log house my dad met us in the front yard, as planned. "Ken, can you help me with something in the backyard first?".

Ken, of course, agreed. He was so distracted with complimenting my dad on looking like an "old greek mafia guy" that he didn't see all the people waiting around the corner in the back yard. I was the first to see all the people and I had to refrain from gasping. There was about 200 people there underneath a green tent with coloured lanterns everywhere! It was like a dream!

Everyone shouted "SURPRISE!". And Ken stood stunned! He didn't even notice the people until the surprise was shouted! Ken looked at me. He thought this was a late surprise party for my March 24th birthday rather than an early surprise party for his May 21st birthday! But then everybody sang the "Happy Birthday song" and it was obvious the party was for him!

He was sooooooo happy and sooooooooo surprised! The theme was mexican and there were lanterns everywhere and the outdoor fireplace (under the tent) was roaring as well as an outdoor fire pit (beyond the tent, near the pond). The lanterns all through the green tent added a luminous colour and atmosphere to the event. There were huge menu's posted in the centre of the tent:

1st Course:
- Strawberry and Spinach Salad
- Caesar Salad
- Spinach Dip
- Tortilla Chips and Salsa

Main Course:
CHILI
hot
mild and
spicy

Dessert:
Fruit Platters
Goody trays
Cake: vanilla, chocolate, and lemon

{the 3 huge cakes had musical notes all over them because at church Ken's voice is very appreciated. Each cake had one word on it so that when all 3 were next to eachother they read "Happy Birthday Ken".}

The chili was on a main table. Mom made 6 HUGE pots of Chili all by herself. Three different spice levels, two pots each. They were kept warm on top of hot plates and above each pot was a sombrero. The centre of the sombrero show cased, in nice lettering, what kind of chili was beneath it!

There were many tables and chairs and long spreads of food! It was literally amazing! I was just as surprised as Ken as I had nothing to do with the planning at all! I was not expecting such a glamorous spread! I also suggested that mom hire 2 or 3 young girls from the church to cater the event. They could assist with cleaning up dishes and bringing out new pots of chili and fresh fruit platters, etc. They were a huge help and I know my mom didn't regret handing out a few dolla bills to some sweet girls!

Chili is one of Ken's favorite foods and so when Mom was trying to think of what food to cook I had made the suggestion. Mom rolled with the suggestion and decided on a Mexican theme. It was just beautiful!

Ken was touched beyond words! Everyone that he dearly loved, from church, had come. He was overwhelmed and even said "I can't believe everyone that showed up!".

All of the ministry and their wives came (Including their extended family). This was a real treat because they are often far too busy to attend party's. Ken was so happy that they came. At the end of it all he was presented with a big basket of cards and a big wrapped gift.

The big wrapped gift was a gift from "The Moskious" (my parents and brothers). It was filled with tons of coconuts. This is an on going joke in the family as Ken DETESTS coconuts and the idea was spawned from Joey (my lil' bro). Ken laughed his guts out and it was awesome!

Ken went through the whole stack of cards like a true gentleman and many contained money which was cool. But on the top of the cards was an envelope entitled "To go towards a new suit". There was a card in there signed by many people who had contributed at the party. Ken has been wanting a new suit for a while and I expressed this to Mom. In the end Ken accumulated $215.00 towards a new suit and he was verrrrry happy!

I was not expecting the Suit Fund at all! My mom only asked me what Ken really needs or wants and I had mentioned "a new suit".

It was a great time with close friends and family and we will never forget it! My Uncle George and my cousin Niko even made the trip out!

The highlights of the night: Ken's utter surprise! Ken's brimming heart. My Uncle George showing up. Ken's suit fund. And Sister Ruth (the pastor's wife) did the needle and thread trick on my arm to see if I was going to have a baby girl or a baby boy. The result was mostly in between. I was like "Oh great! It IS twins like Ken keeps saying!". But we did it a 2nd time and it seemed to lean more towards a boy!

The whole thing was a cute and special moment for me that I will never forget!

The night was a success and my Mom is a miracle worker! Dad did a whole lotta work too! He set up the whole outside and even landscaped for the event. But Mom worked to the point of exhaustion and lack of sleep and I shall never forget what she did for my husband!

Picture Test

Okay, a lovley lady named Kathy helped me figure out how to posts pics on each blog! Thanks Kathy! As a test I will post a pic of the puppy in my life! His name is Barqley and I love him to death! He is 10 months old and until now he has been a hairy mutt! But my mom and I took him to the salon and had him shaved! He looks just priceless and he feels like velvet! Oh, how I love him!!!!!!

TESTING

Testing, Testing...1...2....3!

This is just a test! I am trying to figure out how to post a picture on each blog posting! Any advice y'all?

Why I think it's a GIRL!

My first ultrasound is coming up on May 20th! Just 28 days away! This ultrasound is going to tell us if the baby is a boy or a girl!

I want to start gathering everyone's predictions on paper prior to the ultrasound. I have a whole month to do this and I plan to get started right away! It will be interesting to see who was right and who was wrong.

I predict that it is a girl! I have had a name picked out for her since the beginning of this pregnancy and it just seems so right! I haven't actually called the baby by a name yet or accused it of being female to "it's" face but everytime I visualize him/her - I call HER by the name I've picked. This name holds much significance to Ken and I as well as my side of the family. Only our closest relatives know the name we have picked but other than that we have kept it a deep secret! We really want to surprise people! So if you are one of the one's who knows "her" name - please! Shhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!

This is why I think it's a girl:

- well, I have already stated my case about how I visualize this baby and how I have a name for "her" and it just seems so right

- I have always believed I would have a little girl first (maybe because I grew up as the first?)

- 2 months before I got pregnant, and believe me at this point I was getting desparate!, my dad had 2 dreams that I had a baby girl! The first dream he told us about was that he was chasing a little girl around that looked just like me! The second dream he dreamt was as follows:
there was a little girl on stage, at church, singing with the sunday school choir. She had light brown curly hair and she was twisting her curls with her finger. Dad looked over at Ken who had tears in his eyes. Ken said "It was all worth it".
When dad told me of the dream I jumped for joy! "Yes! Now I believe a baby is coming soon and she's a girl!". I was so happy!
The next day, as Ken and I were talking about dad's dream, I was reminded of a scripture. I quoted it to Ken on our way to church "The old men will dream dreams and the young men will have visions". When we got to church Brother Ed, our pastor, opened the service with this scripture! 2 months later I was pregnant!

- I am constantly reminded of how the Lord told my dad I was going to be a girl when mom was pregnant with me. It was in a dream! In the dream God told him he was having a girl to humble him. Dad had already ran around professing he was having a son. After his dream - he had to go around and correct himself. He just could not ignore the dream. "I am having a girl to humble me", he would say. No one could convince him otherwise!

- When we were looking for a new place to live we walked through a place that already had a baby girl's nursery! The nursery was just beautiful! And really big (connected to a bathroom!). The house had baby girl stuff all over it and the mother that currently lived there said "So I can leave all the child safety things when I leave?". "Absolutley!", I said. I took this all to be a sign. We move in there in a month (the same week we find out the sex of the baby!)

- Since we have been pregnant everyone, including perfect strangers, talk about our baby as though they already know it's a girl! "...and you can take HER to the beach....", "....and when you finally look in HER eyes....". This has been our experience as well as my mothers when she talks to other people about the baby. When we shared our experiences with this - we just grinned.
When we point out to people what they have just done they apologize and we just assure them that's it's really okay! No big deal!

- I called my dad and asked him to pick up a can of tuna for me one night. He arrived with 5 bags full of: tuna, vegetables, fruit, juice, junk food, candles, dish cloths, and pink baby clothes and shoes to match! My mom and I were walking through Ikea the other day and she pointed out to me the bedroom suite my dad picked out earlier for the baby. It is a princess suite for a little girl! He is so sure of himself! Ken pointed out to dad about his confidence in the baby being a girl. Dad just said "Hey! No Grandfather would say no to a grandson! I just know it's a girl.".

So now you see why I believe it's a girl! Do you choose to go along with my reasons, confirmations, and signs? Or do you choose to go against the grain, like Ken, and predict it's a boy? It's your choice! If I wasn't ME, I would have predicted a boy just to be different. But, I AM me - and I can't help it! I really believe it's a girl!

Please feel free to send me your predictions! Either on here, facebook, or my email address: kajillian@hotmail.com

This should be interesting! Well, we'll allll know in a month!

Small Kindnesses

So I went to my dentist, as planned, on Thursday at 2:30pm. I went into full detail about the danger my abscessed tooth posed to my baby and that my doctor said it was essential that this matter be dealt with asap!

He x-rayed my tooth and discovered that it had 2 large cracks in it and could not be saved. The tooth would have to be extracted. This was fine with me as my baby comes first, the tooth was in the back of my mouth, and I will just get an implant after the baby arrives.

He then proceeded to schedule me for a tooth extraction for two and a half weeks later! I was stunned, to say the least. Did he not hear a word I said?

In fact, while we were discussing the seriousness of the matter he said "I would really like to see the books your doctor is reading". I explained to him that it wasn't just my doctor, alone, that agreed with this! Another doctor said the exact same thing! Guess what he said? "Well, I would like to see the books both those doctors are reading".

You have got to be kidding me! All of the sudden he is the authoritive on medicine and prenatal care? He is a DENTIST not a DOCTOR - like dentists like to consider themselves. Their knowledge does not go far beyond that of teeth!

I left his office very distressed. This was Thursday (April 17th). Friday evening (April 18th) I was at my parents house, having a nice dinner with the family. Ken was in the living room having "guy talk" with a whole buncha other people that were over and I was in the kitchen having "girl talk" with my mom and another lady named Geneeva that was over. {Why is it that the women end up chatting in the kitchen? How demeaning! lol}.

I started to gripe about the arrogant dentist and express my worry for my unborn child. Sister Geneeva (this is her title as she is a memeber of my church and we call one another brother and/or sister in reference to the fact that we are all a part of the family of God} said "Why not go to another dentist?".

Why not go to another dentist? Why not go to another dentist?!!!! Helloooooooooooo! Why on EARTH did this not dawn on meeee?!!!!! It was like a thunderbolt of revelation came out of the clouds and left a big gaping scar on my forehead! In fact, when I needed another extraction (one of my back molars) last year and my dentist scheduled me for an extraction at a later date - I set to work at finding another dentist. And wouldn't you know it? My current dentist, the one who was being an ignorant loser, was the one who extracted my tooth, thus now he is my current dentist! How ironic!

But, for some reason, THIS time around, this solution illuded me! Saturday morning I set to work making phone calls trying to find a dentist that would take me in for an emergency extraction NOW! One dentist's office said they would take me in on Saturday but that they never do an extraction the same day they look at the tooth. This was unacceptable! I had x-rays from my current dentist and this was an emergency. Also, being, that I have experienced an extraction before, I happen to know that it takes all of FIVE MINUTES once the freezing kicks in!

I finally found a dentist that would take me in. The name of the clinic is called Thunderbird Dental located at 20159 88th avenue Langley, BC (Walnut Grove). If anyone wants to know the name of the clinic that scheduled me in for two and half weeks later it is called Willow Dental Care which is located in the mall and the Dentist name is "Dr." Kara (male).

When I got to Thunderbird Dental the dental assistant notified me that they might not be able to extract the tooth TODAY. I expressed my concerns to her and let her know that was ridiculous. My appointment was Saturday at 4:00. I was in the chair at 4:15 and no one came to see me until 4:30. The dentist mentioned it was getting late and that maybe he could schedule me in for MONDAY! I felt like saying "What you mean to say is that you are half an hour late in seeing me and that you are now going to stay late to do an extraction, for an emergency situation, that takes all of five minutes!".

I didn't have to lose my temper. The dental assistant spoke for me. She made him do it. She said she didn't mind staying late and that we were going to do the extraction today! She totally took charge. I said "thank you" and immediatley I started crying because I was so touched that someone actually cared and that she would put herself out on the limb like that for me.

Sure enough, no sooner did she say that, that the dentist had my tooth pulled out in 5 minutes! He even tried to say that he wasn't sure if it was cracked and he would like to research it more before doing an extraction (as he would rather save my tooth). I appreciated the gesture and I understood where he was coming from but I wasn't too worried about the possibility of saving my tooth just then - I was worried about saving my baby!

After extracting my tooth - it was definitley confirmed that it was cracked! It broke off in two pieces. Excuse my graphic nature here while I say that the smell from the tooth was enough to make anyone vomit and everyone made comments on it. This proves how abscessed it was.

When I think of the fact that I have had this abscessed tooth since I've been pregnant and that the whole time it was a danger to my baby - I get furious! And when I recall how "Dr." Kara scheduled me for an extraction two and half weeks later (after already making me wait for 2 months under the belief that it would endanger my baby to FIX it) I become apalled!

I am unable to take medication as I am pregnant! The pain was often times unbearable! How can a dentist do this to a new mother who is in pain?

When he scheduled me for such a prolonged appointment I should have said "Okay. No problem! So is it alright with you if I come in here every day for the next two and half weeks, kick you in the balls each day, and not provide you with any pain killers?".

I am sure the outcome would be quite comparable to my situation: he would be in severe pain every day, no way to alleviate the pain, AND I would be taking away his chance of having a child!

As you can see I am irate at this point!

Back to Thunderbird dental. They showed they cared, the extraction went well, their technology was top of the line (including x-rays that are one tenth of normal x-rays in the radiation department), they have TV's on the ceiling (which is a requirement for me when in that ghastly chair!), and my heart was overwhelmed when I left.

The dental assistant that played a major role in having my tooth extracted right then and there ALSO did the following:

she gave Ken a dental chair to sit in and offered him ear phones and a remote to watch TV while he waited. Ken opted for the chair (as they are very comfortable) but remained loyal to his PSP! I thanked her for being so considerate. She also gave me a squeeze ball to squeeze while my tooth was being pulled and even stroked my hand while it was being done!

When it was all over I thanked her profuseley as tears streamed down my face. She said "It wasn't really that big of a deal!". I told her "It is the little kindesses that impact people the most!".

I am reminded of a scripture "He who gives a cup of water even to the least of my little ones will not be forgotten". This scripture refers to those who provide even simple kindesses to God's people and that they will have a place in heaven (regardless of what kind of life they have lived).

I have no idea what sort of state her soul is in or if she is a "believer" but I will say this much - I don't think it makes a difference! She helped me and my baby that day and for that I know I will have tea with her some day on the other side!

After my extraction Ken and I went to the Emergency at the Langley Hospital. We told them our concerns and how we wanted an emergency ultrasound to make sure our baby was A-OK. They let us know that the ultrasound technician was away on weekends and that they WILL call her in if a woman is bleeding. Otherwise they will not call the technician.

I asked if they could at least put a doppler on my stomache and allow us to hear the heart beat. They had no problem providing this service! Sure enough we waited for 3 hours but once we heard that heart beat - all the pain and stress of the day melted away!

The heart beat was 140 beats per minute and the Doctor said "you have quite the healthy heart beat there!".

I doubt I need mention that Saturday was filled with much prayer between Ken and I and our families and friends. I am greatful for everyone's prayers and I give ALL the glory to Christ Jesus!

P.S. :

I almost forgot to mention that when I went to the Dr. about my abscessed tooth - I asked her to let me hear the heart beat again before I left (just after she told me I was in danger of going into premature labour!).

When she put the doppler on my tummy - it took what seemed like FOREVER to find the heart beat! I seriously almost had a heart attack! She looked at me and said "where did we find the heart beat last time?". Because Ken came with me that time and he had told me where - I was able to tell her "Right in the middle". All the sudden there he/she was!

I almost collapsed with relief! She said "You were worried about that, weren't you?". I just nodded with tears in my eyes. It was the most beautiful sound in the world to me just then and I walked away thanking Jesus and crying at the same time.

Bed Rest

Some of you probably already know that I am on bed rest. I have been since Tuesday (April 15th) and will be until Monday (April 21st).

I have had a small virus for over a week now (mostly a dry cough with pounding head ache which turned into a phlegmy cough with even worse head ache). I have had colds/flus that were ten times worse so I wasn't complaining. But then my tooth ache (which has been around for a couple of months now) started throwing a temper tantrum and ear aches started up heavily. I made an appointment to see the Doctor and told my boss on Monday evening (via voice mail) that there was no way I was going to be working on Tuesday. Good call if I do say so myself!

I knew I needed rest and that my body was obviously letting me know that but I didn't realize just how serious everything was! I went to my Dr. on Tuesday who said that the abscessed tooth (now it was in an abscessed state) was enough, on it's own, to cause me to go into premature labour. She told me to call my dentist (who has been putting off working on my tooth ache because I am pregnant) to do an emergency procedure and she put me on antibiotics that are safe for the baby.

I called my dentist who said to come in today, Thursday, because that will have given the antibiotics time to kick in before they "operate". It will either be an extraction or a root canal - whichever is safer for the baby. I am thinking root canal since I am on antibiotics and the swelling is definitley down! If it was too inflamed - a root canal would be impossible and they would just have to pull the tooth for the sake of the baby.

Tuesday morning (April 15th) my gums, above the tooth, were swoolen to the size of a pea. That's not small for gums! It was this big pea bulging out of nowhere and the pain was ridiculous! I lanced the gums myself on Tuesday morning (prior to my Dr's appointment) to rid myself of the hellish pain. Ken watched me poke my gums with a hot needle and couldn't believe I had the courage to do it. But, when you are in THAT kind of pain - nothing could be worse and you are willing to try anything! A mixture of puss and blood spilled out in the sink and I squeezed it until I thought everything was gone. Graphic enough? Sorry everyone! Turns out - that if I had gone to Emergency (or even to a dentist) which I probably should have done - they would have done an "open and drainage" anyways, which is the same thing I did to myself Tuesday morning!

As soon as I poked the needle through - the relief was evident and five minutes after draining it I felt 90% better! I just had a little tenderness. When I went to see my Dr. she said that the risk my dentist is considering (having a root canal while pregnant) is nothing compared to the risk of leaving the poison in my body as it could cause miscarriage.

This tooth has been bugging me for two months and I have been lancing it constantly! But, it was never as bad or as swollen as it was on Tuesday and I was always able to lance it with a simple insertion with a tooth pick. Their was virtually no pain and only a little sumpin' would drain out. But, this last time, I had to try and poke several times and ended up heating up a needle, rather than use a tooth pick.

Turns out that by lancing the gums myself may have been what has kept my baby safe all this time. I was spilling the poison out - not allowing it to go anywhere else. To tell you the truth: I have NO idea whatever gave me the idea to even do that the first time! I just instinctivley knew that it would help! To me : that was inspiration from the Lord and for that I am very thankful.

I am so happy that this tooth will be fixed today and the baby safe from harm. I finish my antibiotics on Tuesday (April 22nd) and I should be out of the danger zone. I already know that God is protecting this baby despite whatever the devil tries to throw my way. It may cause a moment of worry for a new mamma-to-be and I may comply with the medical advise (because who wouldn't?) but as soon as I pray or as soon as Ken prays with me - the fear dissipates and I am reminded that it doesn't matter WHAT the Dr's say - our baby is going to make it and our baby is going to be completley healthy and wonderful!

The devil may think he is winning at causing more stress in my life but all he is doing is adding another chapter of Faith to my life. Glory to God!

3rd Prenatal Visit

So, as most of you know, we heard our baby's heart beat for the first time on April 8th, 2008. It was beautiful!



The one thing I didn't like was the Dr. got right down to business right away - we didn't even get a moment to bask in it all. She laid some harsh info on us and faced us with some hard decisons.



She said there is a blood test that can be done (I think she said at 15 weeks?) called a "Triple Blood Test". She said the test determines the chances of having a baby with spinal bifida or down syndrome.



She said it was optional and it can't hurt the baby. She said the test provides ratios such as (1 in 2000 or 1 in 25). She said that women my age do not have a high chance of producing a baby with any of these difficulties but that many couples want to know their odds. If the results show that the odds are high then we are faced with another decision which is to have an "amnio...blah blah blah". I don't know how to spell that word! It's basically a test where they stick a big needle right into the womb. This test will tell you if your baby, in fact, has one of these complications.



She said the test was risky but that many parents want to be prepared, if the odds showed there was a high chance in the blood test. She said some parents know they would not have an abortion anyways and so they decide not to endanger the baby with the "amnio....who what?". However, she said then the parents are left in limbo for the remaining long months and it gives them anxiety.



She then asked us, point blank, if we would consider abortion if the child had any of these complications.



She spit all of this out in a matter of minutes! I was in another world after hearing my baby's heart beat and then all of the sudden blam! Welcome to hell again!



The fact that these complications are even a fear for mothers - is from the devil! It certainly doesn't come from God! And for me - it's always one or the other! I am a black and white sort of person (not speaking racially, folks! speaking metaphorically!).



We were so stunned that we told her we needed to time to discuss things privatley and that we would get back to her at a later date. I added that we are Christians and so, of course, faith plays the major role here. I also told her that I felt, personally, that abortion was murder - so that was out of the question for me!



I asked my parents' advise and several others and Ken and I have reached a conclusion on the matter.



You see - the question was not, for me, about whether I would have an abortion or not. The question was - do I even have the triple blood test? I already BELIEVE, with all my heart, that God would not allow any harm to come to this child. We have prayed for this baby, along with many others, and I believe this child was a gift from Him.



I wanted to know if, by having the triple blood test, would we be giving into the fear that this world places on us all the time - regarding many different matters, rather than just leaning on God.



I have decided that I will go ahead and have the triple blood test and like ALLLLL the other tests, regarding this baby and my doubts of fertility, I will take it to the Lord in prayer, prior to taking the test. And I will just believe in a Good Report as I have with every other test!



So I am taking the test and I already know the outcome will be the BEST outcome possible!!! Even if the odds were high - I would STILL have faith in God that it's just not so! And, yes, I would have the "amnio...", if need be. But, I already KNOW that I will not be faced with these questions, fears, or doubts leading to any further testing.



God has proven faithful though this whole testimony of our baby! I am still leaning on His ever lasting arms!



I have a bad tooth that requires a root canal but my dentist scared me that it might hurt the baby. Only because he said he wouldn't do it in the 1st trimester nor would he do it in the 3rd trimester (because women bleed too much in their 3rd trimesters). I was going to just ignore the pain and press on until the baby was born but I have decided to first ask my Dr. what she suggests.



Because I have decided to take the triple blood test and because I need to ask her about the root canal (and you can't ask her questions on the phone! geesh!) - I have made an appointment to see her tomorrow, April 15th @ 4:50pm. And since I am there - I am gonna ask her if I can please hear my baby's heart beat again! Why not? It's not hard to do! She better not put up a fuss!



Anyways, all is well!



PS: I still have a plugged left ear! It has been plugged since I have been pregnant and it drives me crazzzy! Dr. says it is normal as it is the hormones making "things swell up". This is annoying because I cannot sing properly and I am walking around talking even LOUDER than normally! hahahahhahaaaaa

NESTING

We are moving June 1st and it seems to be taking forever to get here! Perhaps it is a blessing in disguise - I can take my time getting packed, etc. But I feel such an urge to "NEST" right now. I heard women often get this way when they hit their 2nd trimester. I hate where I am living, I am exasperated with my current landlords, and I feel no inspiration to clean or decorate where I am right now. Even my neighbours have suddenly become rude and abnoxious. I told that to Ken who said "Where have you been? They've always been like that!".

Starting this weekend I am going to pack 2 boxes per night. This should give me a real head start! We are going to cease parking our car in the garage and, instead, park it in the driveway. This way we can load up all our boxes in the garage and keep everything out of our way! Come moving day - we'll just open up our garage and presto! Once all the boxes are packed up - the movers can move all the furniture in the house which is all staying right where it is until moving day.

Some of you already know that I decorate my house with grapes and that my colours are grape green and grape GRAPE! I am greek and so grapes are a part of my heritage and many greeks like to decorate with them. But the real reason I have gone with grapes is to go with a few scriptures: "I am the vine and you are the branches" (which makes me think of a grape vine) and then the another scripture in Psalms "we are the harvest". So far all I have been able to do to convey this is deocrate with a particular colour sheme and a few non-tacky grape deocrations but I have never had the time nor the money to really do what it is I have in mind.

I have been slowly collecting odds and ends that are worth it and a real concrete idea is starting to take it's shape. I have a greek pillar and I need MORE. I have an idea for a greek coffee table but I don't think it will be good with a baby around (glass? uh uh!). Ken bought me two big greek/pillar style "windows". They look ancient and they have black iron openings in the middle - I was thinking of putting a picture behind them and leaving one side of the window open.
You hang hang them on the wall and they have baskets underneath them which I am going to fill with grapes hanging down!

There have been certain items I have been on the search for but I have been patiently waiting for something to "pop-out" at me. I have been on the search for a painting that will compliment my ideas, elegantly, and I have been desiring a stain glass vase as well as stain glass chandelier and matching stain glass lamps. Of course I want grapes on them!

I went to the "Blessings" store in Cloverdale which I have always called "The Christian Book Store". I would have never thought to go there with my house decor in mind! BUT I went there and found a stain glass vase with matching stain glass cross (to hang in a window but I believe I will find a stand for it). They are so beautiful and elegant! Of course - they have grapes on them! The cross reads: "I am the vine and you are the branches"! It was PERFECT!

Then the other day I went in there and found a large oil painting with both green and purple grapes on it! And there is a scripture about the harvest from Psalms written elegantly on the side!

I borrowed some money to afford the three items which are really rather cheap! All together it is going to cost me $250.00 maximum with tax! How could I NOT?

Now I just need to find my stain glass Chandelier and matching table lamps for the living room!
I am psyched as you can tell! And I am sure no one really cares, hahahahaah! But I DO and this Blog is a chance for me to be selfish with what I want to talk about! If I write an email or send a "wall posting" on someone's FACEBOOK it's all I can do to keep from rambling on and I take into consideration what that person actually wants to hear about!

This is why I have made a Blog - to be a "yenta". That means "Chatter Box" in Yiddish (Hebrew language). Oh! - and what a surprise! - that was my nickname growing up on the Jewish side of my family!

Welcome!

Hello Dear Loved ones!



Well...this is my very first blog! A friend inspried me to do it. She has so much going on her life that this is a wonderful way for all of her friends and family to keep in touch with what is new and exciting and, unfortunatley, sometimes to convey hardships. I believe that the more we stay connected and open with one another - the more miracles God can accomplish. It is by sharing our trials and tribulations with one another that others can pray for one another. I also believe that by sharing our blessings, fortune, eureeka ideas, and little everyday miracles that we draw strength from one another! Therefore I believe that no matter what we share, good or bad, we each gain wisdom and faith.



When I was a young girl I could never keep my big mouth shut! I often came up with outlandish ideas, crazy thoughts, and somehow I could make it all seem sensible! Nothing has changed! lol.

I even made a book, as a child, entitled "Jillian's Deep Thoughts". The point I am trying to make is that, and most of you already know this!, I have a lot to say! This will give me a chance to get it all out! hahhahahhahahaha



To tell you the truth: even as I write this I don't even know if I will SHARE this blog. Perhaps it will end up being a personal Journal? hmmmm...DOUBT IT! Since when am I secretive? Who knows..... I think this will be a great way to share my new pregnancy with my loved ones and after that - post things about my child, etc.



Let's get past the appetizers and to the MEAT! I am pregnant y'all! So excited! I am 3 months and 5 days along right now and I really believe we are having a girl! I think Ken believes it too but doesn't want to admit it! We heard the heart beat for the first time on April 8th, 2008 @ 4:50pm. It was RADICAL! It was 160 beats per minute, which is the highest it can be! Praise the Lord!



When Ken and I met, April 30th, 2005, it was love at first sight! Well, there's more to it than that but it was actually love at first sight for Ken and love at first "eye-sight" for me! I had to look in his EYES first! We fell in TOTAL love right away! We spent nights just talking and singing and cuddling (nothing more). After, two weeks since we met, and one week since our first date, Ken asked me to move in with him. I came home, packed my bags, and when my parents started asking questions - I lifted my chin and said "I would say "I do" at the altar tonight! This is the man I am going to marry". When you know - you KNOW! We were engaged 3 months after we met and married a short year after we met (9 month engagement felt like forever!).



After living together for a couple of weeks (and only knowing eachother for three or four weeks!) I turned over to Ken and said "Let's make a baby". He was all for it! If you ask me: we were out of our stinkin' minds!!!



When we began living for the Lord, we separated for four months. We were still "together" but not living together. There wasn't even smoochin' going on! I think it made our love sweeter! We stayed "separated" until our wedding night which made it all the more romantical! awwwwww



On this May 31st, 2008 - we will have been married for 2 years and together for 3. My point is that we have been trying for a baby for almost 3 years! (more like 2 and 1/2 when you minus the 4 month "break" and the fact I am already pregnant). But, that is a long time to try! I began to think I could not have children. Ken went for testing and everything was great. For a woman, however, the tests are much more complicated and there are several of them. I went for quite a few and things were looking decent. I went for an HSG Test which showed that I had only one good tube. I went up for prayer at my church, and at the next doctor's appointment my doctor said that was IMPOSSIBLE. She was looking at the pictures of the ultra sound right in front of my face and said it was OBVIOUS that both tubes were working!



To me that was nothing short of a miracle! The day I CONCEIVED was the day I went for the HSG test that told me I had only one operating tube! That was January 24th, 2008. We are a family of Faith and for each test, prayers were held, including one big prayer with the whole church in December of 2006. I personally believe that God performed a miracle just for me. I would rather believe that and give God the glory He deserves than NOT believe it and leave God un-thanked. Consider: I would hate to have to hear the words "you CANNOT have a baby" and THEN pray for a miracle and THEN thank God from there. Why could He not just save me from that fret and worry? Does He deserve less honor for performing THAT miracle for me?



So here we are - baby on the way! YAY! I truly thank Jesus Christ EVERRRRY day for the life He has given us. Each life is a miracle of God - whether there was complications to begin with or not!



We are moving again! We found a 2 bedroom BEAUTIFUL townhouse, ON the beach, in White Rock! So excited! Everything is real hardwood floors, NO CARPETS!, all stainless steel appliances and beach views in front and back. There is 1,400 square feet between the two floors and it feels so spacious with the windows, the light, and the high ceilings. There is even already a baby girl nursery there! aha! It's a sign! lol And the lady that lives there now is leaving all the child safety things around the house for me! I am so excited! Can hardly wait!



It will be awesome for my maternity leave, starting 2 months before the baby gets here, and it will be incredible when the baby gets here! Lotsa walkin by the beach in the sun! It will be healthy for my body, mind, and spirit which, in turn, will be healthy for the baby as well!



A happy Mamma = a happy Baby and vise versa.



My friends blog that I just read prior to this one said that when people asked her what she wanted to be when she grew up she would say "A mom!". I did the EXACT same thing - all of my life! To me it is the most valuable, wonderful, priceless job respected and ordained of God.



I have wanted to be a mother since I could play with dolls! And when I was 13 I nearly was a mother when my little brother was born. At 5 years old - I knew everything there was to know about the creation of life. It amused me and it still does. What a miracle we humans are able to be a part of! It's almost alien!



So now that you have seen how fast I can talk (100 words per minute, folks!) - I will bid you adieu'!



Ciao for now! Love you all.



God bless you!