Impromptu Photo Session

After work one day with Violet we took these photos, my Mom is getting really great with her photography!! (and of course I don't mind that I practically have a personal professional photographer on stand-by!!)

Thanksgiving

This was Violet's first Thanksgiving and it was full of food, family and fun! We celebrated at my sister's house and Violet was on her best behavior, of course! Here are some pics...

My First Cold!

It's official! Baby girl has her first cold says Dr. Segura. She's been running low-grade temperature for the past few days and has the sniffles. Dr. orders some TLC & children's tylenol. I took this picture of her below the night before last while she was giving me her, "I'm sick" face......breaks my heart!
(sorry it's blurry, the camera lens was dirty)

Caution! High heels, grass, and carseats do not mix!

A new song.......

Rock-a-bye Violet

In your carseat

When Mommy carries you in heels

She may slip in the grass

Then down will go baby

and Mommy's nice pants!

(no children were hurt during the making of this song)

So here is the scenario...

This morning I am leaving the house, high heels, wearing my PRE-baby work pants (silent applause for mommy). Diaper bag on one arm, Violet in her carseat hooked on the other. We have a one car garage, so I am walking one foot in front of the other trying to stay on the concrete....I hate walking in wet grass in heels! I'm about to reach for the car door when swoosh! My heel slips off the edge of the concrete into the grass, and down I go twisting my right ankle, and landing on my left knee with Violet in my right arm. I mangaged to sit her flat down on the grass in her seat, and when I look up she's still sleeping! (thanks for the moral support Violet - gosh!) OF COURSE, my neighbor is out on his front swing and he jumps up and yells, "are you okay?!". I quickly jump up and say, oh yes, I'm fine I just tripped.....when really I want to flop on the ground next to Violet and grab my knee. Of course I'm way to cool, to do that, so I recover, get her in the car and haul outta there with what's left of my dignity!

Good news is, ankle is fine, knee is not too bad, and most importantly Violet never knew it happened....so don't go telling on me! The knee of my pants took it the hardest, and NO, I did not go back in and change, that would be admitting defeat.

Motherhood is AWESOME!

Birth Photos

6 lbs. 11oz!

Our first Family Photo!

Daddy holding Violet for the first time!

Tiny footprints

Another family photo....I couldn't believe how beautiful she was!

The Birth Story!

I know it has taken me WAY too long to update the blog, but I just could never find the time while I was at home. Now that I'm back at work, it will be so much easier to keep everyone updated!

Violet's Birth Story:

On Wednesday, August 18th, 2010 I left work to go pick up my niece Amanda and give her a ride home. I hardly ever get to see her, and was excited to get to spend a few minutes with her and as it turned out she was our little good luck charm. As soon as I got home from dropping her off I started having what felt like really bad menstrual cramps. One came that was really strong and so I laid down on the couch, and that's when I felt a small leak. I looked up at Steve and said, "I'm leaking"! I went to the restroom, where I had more "leaking" and I was sure that my water had broken; it was a little after 8 pm. I called the on-call doctor which was Dr. Pettite and he told me to head to the Assessment Center at CL Regional. I was so excited! I jumped in the shower, we started packing up the car, and off we went. Once we were there, I was tested twice for amniotic fluid but both tests came up negative. While there, I was contracting irregularly, sometimes every 1-2 minutes and then sometimes every 5-10 minutes. Both of the nurses that evening were certain that my water had broken also, but since the tests were negative I was sent home. I wasn't that happy to be leaving without a baby, but I knew she'd be coming soon. We came home and Steve was off to sleep, and I was in for a night a labor, on my own! After about 2 am, I was really uncomfortable so I moved into the living room to let Steve get some rest. I already had an appointment scheduled for 10 am the next morning on Thursday at the OB office. When morning came Steve had to go to work to finish up a few things, so my Mom came over to sit with me. She started timing my contractions and they were about 2-3 minutes apart and very regular. We decided to call the office and once again spoke with Dr. Pettite and he told me to be at the office when it opened. Once we were there, Dr. Abbott saw me immediately and instantly knew my water had broken. She sent me straight to admitting! I was actually relieved at this point because I was NOT in the mood to go home in pain!! The rest of the morning is kind of a blur. Steve arrived, I got checked in, and I had to wait to 3 cm before I had an epidural. In the meantime I was given Demerol for the pain. Can I just say how stupid Demerol is?!?! Basically your just immobilized and so out of it that you can't tell anyone just how much PAIN you are in! I would not call this pain medication, but maybe "shut the patient up" medication. Anyway, I finally got to 3cm, and got my epidural! Love the epidural, didn't hurt going in and couldn't feel my legs when it was done - lovely! Then we waited....me, Steve, Mom, and Mom2 (Carol)! I was stuck at 5cm at about 7 pm, and at this point had been in labor for almost 24 hours, and water had been broken for about the same amount of time. I developed a fever, and Violet's heart rate was decelerating at the beginning of my contractions. Dr. Abbott came and said she'd give me one more hour to progress at 8pm, and if not we'd need to do a c-section. She was back in an hour, me - still at 5 cm, and we had to make a decision. At this point, I was of the opinion that I didn't care which way she came out as long as she was out SOON. So we were off for a C-section. Violet Sophia Schoff was born on Thursday, August 19th, 2010 at 10:12 pm by cesarean weighing 6 pounds, 11 ounces and 19 1/2 inches long. Dr. Abbott and Dr. Pettite together performed the surgery with Steve by side. Daddy was the first one to see and hold our little girl. With tears in his eyes he keep running back and forth between me and her giving me the play by play, telling me "she has my nose"...."she's beautiful"....."I love you".....it was amazing. I will never forget the look on his face or the sound of his voice when seeing our daughter for the first time, I have never loved him more! Our little red-headed, blue-eyed baby girl was finally here!!

39 Weeks!

Today marks 39 weeks, 7 more days to go until Violet's official due date. We have a doctors appointment in the morning that I will update afterwards, so I'll keep this short and sweet!

This may be her last weekly update, who knows?!:
" Your baby's waiting to greet the world! He continues to build a layer of fat to help control his body temperature after birth, but it's likely he already measures about 20 inches and weighs a bit over 7 pounds, a mini watermelon. (Boys tend to be slightly heavier than girls.) The outer layers of his skin are sloughing off as new skin forms underneath." - courtesy of babycenter.com

Proud Mom and Dad at 9 months!!

I love you Violet, Mom is ready to meet you!

The LONGest days!

Here we are at the end of my pregnancy, and let me tell you the days just get LONGER and LONGER. I am so anxious to meet my little girl, the days just drag on! Working is awful! Though I don't have a physically demanding job, the hours of nothingness in between 9 and 6 are filled with constant contemplation. I sit with my anxious thoughts all day and wonder when and how she will arrive into the world. I was just telling Steve this morning that before I met him I had ZERO patience. Now, between him and Violet, I have been forced to become a more patient person. I'm not sure if you have really learned patience if the patient road is the only option, but I'm getting better at practising it nonetheless!

Thursday is my next appointment, I'll be 39 weeks and 1 day along. We have an ultrasound scheduled for 10:15 am, followed by my regular appointment with Dr. Abbott. I am hoping to have made some progress by then! I don't want to be induced, I would like for things to progress naturally on their own, and without complication - that's what I'm praying for!

Till then, have a great week everyone! This Mommy is going to take her lunch nap, and sleep as much as possible until VSS's arrival!

Violet's room Complete!

We have finally put the finishing touches on Violet's room, now we just need to get her here safe and sound!

38 Weeks - 1 day

I had to wait until today to update since my Doctor's appt. was in the afternoon yesterday. No new developments since my last checkup. In fact I haven't gained any weight on my last three appointments. Dr. says I am carrying the baby high, and there is no dialation at all, cervix is completely closed. Therefore, I am scheduled to have an ultrasound next Thursday, followed by my regular appointment. I guess then we will get a more accurate look at what's going on with our little girl as far as weight, and position! I'm looking forward to seeing her face, even if it will be in blurry black and white!!! lol

Her room is completely finished, minus the curtains. We actually have the curtains and the curtain rod, I am just waiting on Daddy to get them hung up. Violet's Mamaw is certain that the reason she's not coming out yet is because we have not hung them! If that's true, we definitely have a little diva on our hands!!

As we all know it could be any time now, the waiting game is the hardest part for me. I am trying to keep myself busy at work, but even that can be challenging! Steve has been such an awesome support. He takes care of anything and everything that I can't. From laundry to making sure my gas tank is full, to running my errands to pick up my prescriptions! I seriously don't know what I would have done without him, I applaud all those single mama's out there who have to man up and do it on their own!! They are brave, brave women! So thank you my love, for not only being my love, but my best friend, tear wiper, feet rubber and constant nurse! You are WONDERFUL, and I love you with all my heart!

....and last but not least:
"Your baby has really plumped up. She weighs about 6.8 pounds and she's over 19 1/2 inches long (like a leek). She has a firm grasp, which you'll soon be able to test when you hold her hand for the first time! Her organs have matured and are ready for life outside the womb. Wondering what color your baby's eyes will be? If she's born with brown eyes, they'll likely stay brown. If she's born with steel gray or dark blue eyes, they may stay gray or blue or turn green, hazel, or brown by the time she's 9 months old." - courtesy of babycenter.com

37 Weeks :)

So today I am considered FULL TERM! I really can't believe we are here, it's exciting! If you know me at all though, you know that I am not a very patient person. I think more than anything I am just ready to be at home spending time with her already. As I told a co-worker the other day, "I need a break from doing nothing," which is a lot of times what my job entails! I can be thankful though, that I have great maternity leave and benefits so most of the time it makes the boredom worth it!

I have been feeling pretty good for the most part. Last Friday I woke up to morning sickness again, then again on Sunday night and into all day Monday. I took the day off on Monday which was amazing, I got so much sleep thanks to my anti-nausea meds that knock me out! The Dr's office called me in some that I can take at work without drowsy side effects and I've been good to go the last two days.

The girls here at work are throwing me a shower on Friday, so I am looking forward to that. I thought it was really sweet considering they've already been to my other shower. I really do have awesome co-workers!

Now here are some photos of Steve (aka, Daddy) hanging Violet's chandelier made by her Mamaw (my Mom). I will get some more pictures of her finished room very soon!




37 week update on Miss Violet:
"Your baby is now considered full term, even though your due date is still three weeks away. If you go into labor now, his lungs will likely be mature enough to fully adjust to life outside the womb. He weighs 6 1/3 pounds and measures a bit over 19 inches, head to heel (like a stalk of Swiss chard). Many babies have a full head of hair at birth, with locks from 1/2 inch to 1 1/2 inches long." - Courtesy of babycenter.com

36 Weeks, 1 Day

Today I had a great doctor's appointment!! Dr. Abbott says Violet's heartbeat is good, and that she is "not too big"! (that's good news for Mommy) After an internal exam she told me that the baby is really high. This would explain a lot of the uncomfortable pain up in my ribs, and shortness of breath. I won't be having another ultrasound unless she doesn't drop within the next few weeks. That being said, the Dr. told me she believes I'll be delivering closer to my August 25th due date and not within the next few weeks. My cervix is still completely closed, so Violet has plenty of time to gain some more weight before we see her! I was so glad that Mom was able to come with me today - so "Thanks MOM" - since Steve had to work! So far Violet has been a very good baby, and everything has been happening right on schedule as Dad pointed out to me this morning. Let's hope she keeps that up after she leaves Mom's tummy!

Here is the 36 update (Can you believe only 4 more of these to go?!):
"Your baby is gaining about an ounce a day. She now weighs almost 6 pounds (like a crenshaw melon) and is more than 18 1/2 inches long. She's shedding most of the downy hair that covered her body, as well as the vernix caseosa, the waxy substance that protected her skin during her nine-month amniotic bath. Next week, your baby will be considered full-term. Most likely she's in a head-down position, but if she isn't, your practitioner may suggest scheduling an external cephalic version, where she'll try to turn your baby by manipulating her from the outside of your belly." - courtesy of babycenter.com

Test results back

I got my iron test results back last week. The nurse simply called to tell me to continue taking my iron supplements twice a day. Not much more info. than that, so I guess all is good!

I'm actually having one of those days at work where I just don't want to be here anymore! It's hard enough trying to find something to fill my mind-numbing 8 hours a day of staring at the computer - now I'm really in pain and uncomfortable while doing it. Needless to say, it makes for a very long day. I'm grateful for my job, it's a wonderful place to work. It's just that my particular position here is so BORING! I hope that when I get back from maternity leave there are some new responsibilities awaiting me!!!!

I have my 36 week appointment on Thursday and I think Mom is going with me because Steve will have to work. I am looking forward to seeing Dr. Abbott again since she has been on vacation! I am dying to know if Violet is in position for delivery!!

35 Weeks!!!!!

I think it's starting to set in that within a few more weeks my DAUGHTER will be here, in my arms, in my life forever! I am so extremely excited to meet her! I keep telling her that she has to wait 2 more weeks so I can hit the magic number 37 weeks, then she can come out. We'll see if she listens to me or not. My guess is probably not if she's anything like her Momma!

Monday night my Mom came over and we got Violet's room all set up the way I want it, and all the boxes in the closet (still packed from moving) unpacked and put away. The chair rail still needs to go up, and the pink needs touching up in some places, & we still need window treatments, but I can rest easier knowing if she came today, she would have a nice room to come home to!

I keep looking at Steve every night thinking how lucky we both are, and how lucky Violet is to have him for a father. He loves her so much already, I get overwhelmed when I think about the first time he gets to hold her, and be there for her right from the beginning. I am so lucky to have the Dad that I do, my only regret is that we didn't meet him sooner. I never knew what I was missing until then, believe me I was spoiled and loved and surrounded with lots family as a baby! I just keep thanking God that Steve is my partner in parenthood and we are doing this together from the very beginning.

As usual, here is the 35 week update:
"Your baby doesn't have much room to maneuver now that he's over 18 inches long and tips the scales at 5 1/4 pounds (pick up a honeydew). Because it's so snug in your womb, he isn't likely to be doing somersaults anymore, but the number of times he kicks should remain about the same. His kidneys are fully developed now, and his liver can process some waste products. Most of his basic physical development is now complete — he'll spend the next few weeks putting on weight." - courtesy of babycenter.com

More testing

Well, at my last visit, the Dr. ordered another check of my iron levels. Results came back today confirmed that my iron levels are very low. They are having me come in Monday morning to do more bloodwork. Not sure yet what all that means. I am already on iron supplements, so I thought that was really the extent of what can be done. At least it explains why I've been so weak and tired! I'm certain it's nothing to be worried about or they would have had me come in today, but I'll keep everyone posted!

Have a great weekend!

34 Weeks!

Watch out world, there's a crazy hormonal pregnant lady on the loose!!! (and it's ME) Here are some ways to avoid being caught in the emotional fire-storm:
1. Please don't tell me I look tired, I already know!
2. Don't wake the sleeping beast - for any reason!!!
3. If you work with me, steer clear of candy bowl comments - I don't care if you don't like what's in there, you're lucky I filled it today, so get OVER it! :)
4. Keep me cool....if I start to sweat, run for the hills...
5. Offering a back rub can only help your situation!
I am quite sure that Daddy Steve could add a LOT more to this list, so maybe I'll just leave that to him. For now, this should keep most of you safe!

In all honesty, I am doing my very best to keep the irritability at bay, but some moments are literally un-controllable. Steve has really done a fantastic job of loving me despite the beast that lays within! I know it has to be hard on him but we've finally got a system (I think) that sort of works. When he says something that would potentially set me off I give him "the look" and he gives me "I'm sorry" and we can end it right there - lol!

Physically, I feel pretty great. I do have occassional back aches, VERY frequent bathroom trips, and some moments where it's hard to catch my breath. All of that is pretty easy to deal with and very standard for most pregnancies. Most days I just feel so lucky to have had such an un-complicated pregnancy and I hope the last weeks through my delivery remain the same. Now there's only 6 more weeks until we meet our daughter!

Update at 34 weeks:
"Your baby now weighs about 4 3/4 pounds (like your average cantaloupe) and is almost 18 inches long. Her fat layers — which she'll need to regulate her body temperature once she's born — are filling her out, making her rounder. Her skin is also smoother than ever. Her central nervous system is maturing and her lungs are continuing to mature as well. If you've been nervous about preterm labor, you'll be happy to know that babies born between 34 and 37 weeks who have no other health problems generally do fine. They may need a short stay in the neonatal nursery and may have a few short-term health issues, but in the long run, they usually do as well as full-term babies." - courtesy of babycenter.com

33 Weeks (and 2 days...)

Let's see.....what hasn't been happening this week?! Well, we are all moved into the new house in La Porte. Steve and I really love this house so much more than the old one. The ONLY thing going wrong right now is that we have no hot water. I have yet to take a shower in our new home. I have been showering at my Mom & Dad's, and as much as I enjoy being there, it's getting old! Long story short, the hot water heater had to be replaced and the guys are running into a lot of issues installing it!

So we are 33 weeks this week, and we have successfully completed our Lamaze Childbirth classes. Yes, we are now Lamaze Graduates!! woo hoo I really enjoyed most of the classes, we missed one last week because of the move, but I don't feel like we were slighted on anything. We both learned a lot of new things, but a lot of the course is common sense - to most people. Like, do you ever leave your child unattended in the bath to go answer the phone.....ummm...NO! duh! lol However, it's good to hear these and other warnings over and over because you can never be too careful, and so many infant deaths are preventable! Now, I have a lot more "what-if's" to obsess over - oh joy!

Okay Miss Violet, what is going on in Mommy's belly this week?:
"This week your baby weighs a little over 4 pounds (heft a pineapple) and has passed the 17-inch mark. He's rapidly losing that wrinkled, alien look and his skeleton is hardening. The bones in his skull aren't fused together, which allows them to move and slightly overlap, thus making it easier for him to fit through the birth canal. These bones don't entirely fuse until early adulthood, so they can grow as his brain and other tissue expands during infancy and childhood. " - courtesy of babycenter.com



P.S. 47 MORE DAYS TO GO!!!!!! :)

32 Weeks & Moving Time!

We got the word yesterday morning that the deal is done on a new house, and we move in this week & weekend. We found one house that we really liked and decided to go for it. We were telling ourselves if it fell through, then we would just sign a 6 month lease at our current place and keep looking through December. Luckily, it all worked out, and we get to move now - which we had preferred to do anyway. We absolutely LOVE the new place. We went to get our key last night and looked around thinking about where everything will go, it was pretty exciting. Then we went home to begin the packing! Thank goodness for Steve, by the time I had arrived home from work he already had our spare/ computer room all boxed up. We stayed up until about midnight getting the living room and kitchen done, then this momma had to go to bed! We should start moving things tomorrow (maybe tonight) and be done by Sunday! whew! Pictures to come soon......

Not to forget the most important thing - we are 32 WEEKS (yesterday)!!! I've been feeling pretty good. I found out that I've gained 26 pounds so far with this pregnancy. I'm okay with that, and I'd like to not go over 35 extra pounds total, but I'm not going to loose sleep over it. Everything checked out great with Dr. Abbott yesterday, I love going in to hear the heartbeat! After that we headed to Pasadena to meet with our potential Pediatrician, Dr. Segura, who comes highly recommended by the Mustin family (thanks Terri & Greg). Of course, we loved him, and he made a special consideration to meet with us, something he normally doesn't do. He answered all our questions, and was so kind. I think Violet will be in good hands. So, there is one more thing checked off our baby "to-do" list.

Now, what is Violet Sophia up to this week?:
"By now, your baby weighs 3.75 pounds (pick up a large jicama) and is about 16.7 inches long, taking up a lot of space in your uterus. You're gaining about a pound a week and roughly half of that goes right to your baby. In fact, she'll gain a third to half of her birth weight during the next 7 weeks as she fattens up for survival outside the womb." - courtesy of babycenter.com

A Letter from my Sister...

Sherri sent me this email following the baby shower last week. It was so touching, I just had to share it with everyone:

Sarah,

Becoming a mother is the most incredible thing that will happen in your life. All of the things that used to annoy you about your own mother will now make sense and you will have a complete new respect for all the woman in your life who are a mother too. When I talked about the book of Esther at your shower I really did want to make a point that being a woman is not easy...but it is the most amazing thing we can do. You are really assisting God in a miracle right now by helping him to bring Violet in this world. Esther was a story about an ordinary woman who went on to do really extraordinary things. My prayer for Violet is that she too will be an extraordinary woman. I know that things haven't been easy for you, but now is the time to start fresh and to build a life for Violet that you can be proud of. It won't always be easy--in fact being a mother and wife is the toughest job I can think of at times----but truly it is such an honor to wake up each day and know that I can influence and raise my child using God's instruction manuel. I hope that you realize that the most important thing you can do for Violet is to raise her in God's house. I love you little sister and I can't wait to meet my new little niece.

Love,
Sherri

A house does not make a Home

As many of you may already know, Steve was laid off from his 5 year long job with Dixie Safe and Lock at the end of May. Honestly, it was a blessing in disguise beause he had been very unhappy working there for at least the last year. I could immediately tell a difference in him, it was like a weight had been lifted from his shoulders!

A few days ago we got more surprise news....we have to move. We had always had a great relationship with our landlord, and a few months ago, we decided to go ahead and stay in our home for at least another year. We told this to our landlord and he was very happy to accept - verbally. Well, it seems now that he and his wife are divorcing and now he wants to move back into the house we are in. Lesson learned: Get everything in writing!! We explained how much work we had put into the house, that I was 8 months pregnant - but with no success. Finally, he agreed to give us the option to sign a 6 month lease. Nice, I suppose, but that has us moving right at Christmas / New Year's with a 4 month old. Not to mention, there are limited houses available in the winter! We are really having a hard time with what to do. We were not prepared to move at this point in our life or my pregnancy. This was supposed to be the relaxing, "everything's just about ready" point for me...ugh! This was the place we were going to bring our first baby home, with her pink and green walls, and new chair rail.....you get my point! So, I could spend all day hating my situation and cursing the landlord, but what does that really help. Then my sister texted me yesterday to remind me that, "A HOUSE DOES NOT MAKE A HOME". Simple, and true. My home is with Steve and Violet (and let's not forget Sasha, Stella & Shiner) and as long as we are together, I am home.

Thank you to everyone who has sent words of encouragement. I know these won't be the last obstacles we will have to hurdle, the important thing is that we do - and do it together. Love to you all!!

Sarah & Steve

31 Weeks, 63 days to go....

This last weekend was my baby shower, and it was FANTASTIC. Thank you so much to Gay, Terri, Sherri & Becky!!!! I love you all so much, that day was so perfect! We had many family and friends there, Violet was certainly surrounded with love that day. I was also thankful that my God-daughter, Jordan was able to join us and share that day with me as well.

I've been feeling great (minus the sleepiness), and Steve and I are in shock at how fast time seems to be going. We have been having a great time getting Violet's room together, and I HAVE taken pictures, however, I don't have a USB cable to download them - yet! When we got all the baby shower gifts put away on Sunday, I was able to rock in the glider in her room and read to her one of the many books she received at the shower. She kicked with joy, so I think I'm brewing an avid reader!!

Here are some photos from the shower and weekend:

The hostesses

and now the weekly update:

"This week, your baby measures over 16 inches long. He weighs about 3.3 pounds (try carrying four navel oranges) and is heading into a growth spurt. He can turn his head from side to side, and his arms, legs, and body are beginning to plump out as needed fat accumulates underneath his skin. He's probably moving a lot, too, so you may have trouble sleeping because your baby's kicks and somersaults keep you up. Take comfort: All this moving is a sign that your baby is active and healthy." - courtesy of babycenter.com

30 Weeks

The big 3-0 this week! Way to go Violet! She (we) passed our glucose test with flying colors, no gestational diabetes - yay! We had a checkup yesterday with Dr. Abbott. Baby looks good or "happy" as Dr. Abbott always says. It is always such a relief to hear her little heart beating away, it makes me so happy. The blood test did show that I am anemic, so I had to start taking iron supplements twice a day. I bet that has a lot to do with why I am always so tired and dizzy. Hopefully, I'll get some improvement there.

Last night we went to "Mom's Studio" (Mamaw's house w/ her new camera) to take photos of me and Steve and the belly! We had fun doing them, and I think we got some really great shots. I am amazed that Lucky, Baby or Meeker didn't end up in half of them! HAHA So, thank you MOM (Mamaw) for taking those photos, we will cherish them forever. Here are a couple of our favorites:

Velma Violet Clepper, Violet Sophia Schoff & Violet Alberta Schoff
(all the Violet's togehter! my favorite picture)

Here's what the baby is up to this week:
"Your baby's about 15.7 inches long now, and she weighs almost 3 pounds (like a head of cabbage). A pint and a half of amniotic fluid surrounds her, but that volume will decrease as she gets bigger and takes up more room in your uterus. Her eyesight continues to develop, though it's not very keen; even after she's born, she'll keep her eyes closed for a good part of the day. When she does open them, she'll respond to changes in light but will have 20/400 vision — which means she can only make out objects a few inches from her face. (Normal adult vision is 20/20.) " - courtesy of babycenter.com

Violet's Daddy!

I just couldn't pass this one up....he takes the BEST pictures!! LOL

I love him!!

29 Weeks

As I was sitting with Mom last night, we were looking at the calendar to see how many free weekends we have until Violet is here. Taking out the weekends where we have plans or my shower, that only leaves 7 weekends to get ready for her arrival! That made my heart race quite a bit. I mean, I realize that I am pregnant, I know my due date, but when you put it like that it just shocked me. In a very short time there will be an entire other human being here, that is completely mine to care for - "for the rest of your life" as Mom put it to me last night and I laughed!! Yes, Mom, I realize that I will be a mother for the rest of my life, and ALL that it entails. As I've come to know very well from a daughter's perspective, a Mother's job is NEVER done. (or a Grandmother's or Aunt's either for that matter)

A day late on the update, since I was 29 weeks yesterday....
"Your baby now weighs about 2 1/2 pounds (like a butternut squash) and is a tad over 15 inches long from head to heel. His muscles and lungs are continuing to mature, and his head is growing bigger to make room for his developing brain. To meet his increasing nutritional demands, you'll need plenty of protein, vitamins C, folic acid, and iron. And because his bones are soaking up lots of calcium, be sure to drink your milk (or find another good source of calcium, such as cheese, yogurt, or enriched orange juice). This trimester, about 250 milligrams of calcium are deposited in your baby's hardening skeleton each day." - courtesy of babycenter.com

This week was also my sweet nephew Jake's 11th Birthday, on June 8th, the same day as my sister and brother-in-law's Anniversary! Here are some photos from the celebration at Olive Garden.

The birthday boy with Mamaw!

Me and Sista Sledge! (aka Sherri)

*anyone else notice how pale I am in comparison....geez, I need a TAN!*

7 month photos

Here we go into month number SEVEN! This last weekend was my Mom's "35th" birthday, and she took these pics of me right before the party started.

28 Weeks

I had a 28 week Dr's appointment today. Dr. Abbott listened to the heartbeat and did a quick exam; everything looks good! I will be going Saturday to do my glucose screening to check for gestational diabetes. Hopefully I'll pass the first round and be outta there!

Now for the update:
"By this week, your baby weighs two and a quarter pounds (like a Chinese cabbage) and measures 14.8 inches from the top of her head to her heels. She can blink her eyes, which now sport lashes. With her eyesight developing, she may be able to see the light that filters in through your womb. She's also developing billions of neurons in her brain and adding more body fat in preparation for life in the outside world." - courtesy of babycenter.com

27 Weeks ~ 3rd Trimester begins!

I can't believe I'm in the 3rd trimester! Some days it feels like it's all just flying by, and then other's I feel like I've been pregnant for an eternity already. I have been feeling really good. Just about a week ago I started having a bit of morning sickness again. I'm not sure how normal that is, but with pregnancy I've started to accept that anything is possible!

Violet's room is coming along, her dresser / changer has been put together and we have artwork and a mirror for the wall (although we are waiting until everything is in it's final place before we hang it). The painting is done, we just need to put up the chair rail! I really will do my best to take some photos soon! I can't wait for everyone to come by and see it. I am looking for a mini-chandelier for her room, so if anyone sees one for a decent price, email me to let me know about it.

27 Week Update:
"This week, your baby weighs almost 2 pounds (like a head of cauliflower) and is about 14 1/2 inches long with her legs extended. She's sleeping and waking at regular intervals, opening and closing her eyes, and perhaps even sucking her fingers. With more brain tissue developing, your baby's brain is very active now. While her lungs are still immature, they would be capable of functioning — with a lot of medical help — if she were to be born now. Chalk up any tiny rhythmic movements you may be feeling to a case of baby hiccups, which may be common from now on. Each episode usually lasts only a few moments, and they don't bother her, so just relax and enjoy the tickle." - courtesy of babycenter.com

All About Violet

I was searching for jobs that I could do online while on maternity leave, and I had to submit a writing sample to a company. Of course, I wrote about my new favorite topic: Violet! Thought I would share with you...

I am in a wonderful transition point in life. I am about to become a mother for the first time, and I can tell you with absolute certainty that my favorite activity is spending time with my unborn daughter. I try to take little moments throughout my day when I feel her kick or move or roll, and reflect on what's to come in our future. I look at her ultrasound photos and try to imagine what her sweet little face will look like when I see her for the very first time. I'll imagine her eyes, nose, mouth, lips. I can't wait for the first time when I get to smell, yes smell, her sweet baby breath. These times of reflection are priceless to me. On other days when she is really active I will lay on my side and jiggle my belly or rub it, and she'll kick or move in response. This is the best part of our "play time". It's like she is telling me, "Mommy, I am right here, and I love you too". Throughout my pregnancy, I have definitely had my ups and downs. There have been moments of pure elation, and then moments of desperation. The one thing that has kept me going through it all, is that precious baby girl. Anticipating our next "play time", awaiting her next weekly milestone, listening to her tiny heartbeat. Those are my new favorite things in life. In the wonderful, exciting, scary, unknown, but blessed new life I am about to begin. I know that very soon, sleep will be but a distant memory, so will a clean house, and worry free nights. The fact is, I wouldn't trade it for anything in the world. Motherhood is the new welcome stranger in my life, that every day, my growing belly and daughter prepare me for.

26 weeks

I've been feeling quite tired lately, so yesterday I came home and took a bath to try and get to sleep earlier! While I was relaxing in the tub staring at my growing belly, I was able to actually play with my little girl. I would splash water on my belly, and rub with my hands and right afterwards (almost every time) she would kick or move! Now I can even feel her stretching out because I am getting jabs on both sides of my belly at the same time. Sometimes when she moves really low in the belly, I start to giggle because it actually tickles....that's always fun! Daddy & Mamaw are able to feel her sometimes, but it's mostly something I get to enjoy on my own, which I don't mind at all! The time we are spending together now is very precious to me!

Here's the 26 week update:
"The network of nerves in your baby's ears is better developed and more sensitive than before. He may now be able to hear both your voice and your partner's as you chat with each other. He's inhaling and exhaling small amounts of amniotic fluid, which is essential for the development of his lungs. These so-called breathing movements are also good practice for when he's born and takes that first gulp of air. And he's continuing to put on baby fat. He now weighs about a pound and two-thirds and measures 14 inches (an English hothouse cucumber) from head to heel. If you're having a boy, his testicles are beginning to descend into his scrotum — a trip that will take about two to three days." - courtesy of babycenter.com

Some things just don't matter...

I worry about the color of the baby's room. I ask myself when we will ever get to putting up the chair rail, or does the bed look good right there? I think about all the things we still don't have, how I wish we made more money, that the house stayed more clean. That the dogs would not jump on the couch, followed with, we DEFINITELY need baby gates.......get the picture? The list could go on forever. Then I take a look at the blog of a young mother that I follow. Just about one week ago, her little girl was stillborn, after finding out that her little heart had stopped beating. Today I finally had the nerve to comment to her, of course, I felt like nothing I could say was good enough, but I had wanted her to know that I think of her every day. When I think of her, and her baby, it makes me realized how extremely blessed I am to still have my sweet Violet growing inside me healthy, warm and happy. It makes me realize how petty and small the details are, and how fortunate I am to become a mother. Violet will never care what color her room is, or how big (if at all) the chandelier is, or what painting is on the wall. What she will know, I will make certain of, is that she is loved more than anything in my entire world. That I will love her the rest of my life without question or condition. She will know smiles, and happiness, and my hugs and kisses. I want to focus on what's truly important, life, love, family, and all the rest can fall where it may. Thank you God for bringing Violet into my life, she has already begun to make me a better person.



If you have time, please send your prayers to Kristin and her family, who I spoke of above. to get to know her and her story you can follow her here:
http://dearbabycook.blogspot.com/

25 Weeks, good check-up today!

I had my 25 week check up this morning with Dr. Abbott. She said, "baby is happy, so I am happy"......and that makes Mom VERY happy! This was by far my fastest appointment yet. I was in and out in about 15 minutes, if only they were all this way. My next appointment is set for June 2nd and I will be going for my glucose screening which checks for gestational diabetes. I probably won't do the GD part until that following Saturday so I don't have to miss as much work. Luckily the lab is open on Sat's and takes appointments online - much easier! It made my heart race with excitement today when the Dr. said, "less than 15 weeks to go"....WOW! I can't believe how fast the time is going by. Which really reminds me that we need to get off dead center on Violet's room. At the rate we are going, the poor thing will be sleeping in a half-painted room, living out of boxes!! haha - Of course there is no way I am letting that happen to my little princess. I know we'll manage to get going on it soon, and I'll post some updates along the way.

Now Miss Vi is officially "off the ruler" (more than 12 inches)!!!!!......
"Head to heels, your baby now measures about 13 1/2 inches. Her weight — a pound and a half — isn't much more than an average rutabaga, but she's beginning to exchange her long, lean look for some baby fat. As she does, her wrinkled skin will begin to smooth out and she'll start to look more and more like a newborn. She's also growing more hair — and if you could see it, you'd now be able to discern its color and texture. " - courtesy of babycenter.com

24 Weeks & into my 6th month!!

Happy 24 weeks to ME! Well, I started off this morning feeling a little queasy and made a dash for the bathroom, but luckily it was a false alarm!! I am feeling a lot better now, and happy that the weeks are moving right along. My baby shower is coming up in June, and I am really excited to see all my friends and family together on that day, it will be so much fun to celebrate Violet's arrival. I know I have some wonderful people working away on the details, so I'll send a quick pre-shower "THANK YOU" to my Aunt Gay, Aunt Terri, Becky, and my sister Sherri! Love you guys!

I am starting to feel Violet kick and move more and more. Steve was able to feel her moving for the first time last night! FINALLY! I am always wanting him to feel it, but as soon as he puts his hand on my belly, she stops moving. Also, my little Daddy-to-be isn't so patient......so he'll only sit there for maybe 30 seconds so Violet really has to step up to the plate quickly or he loses interest!! I don't blame him, it's gotta be frustrating to wait and wait and feel nothing. Hopefully from here on out everyone else (that wants to) will get a chance to feel her in action!

Here are some early six month photos:

Dad wasn't too excited about taking a picture this day, but he did it for me anyway - thanks Honey!

and now the news for 24 weeks:

"Your baby's growing steadily, having gained about 4 ounces since last week. That puts him at just over a pound. Since he's almost a foot long (picture an ear of corn), he cuts a pretty lean figure at this point, but his body is filling out proportionally and he'll soon start to plump up. His brain is also growing quickly now, and his taste buds are continuing to develop. His lungs are developing "branches" of the respiratory "tree" as well as cells that produce surfactant, a substance that will help his air sacs inflate once he hits the outside world. His skin is still thin and translucent, but that will start to change soon." - courtesy of babycenter.com

23 Weeks & Healthy again!

What a week this has been! Steve and I both came down with a virus late on Sunday evening in to Monday morning that took us both out of work for two days! So there goes a little more of my maternity leave, but what are ya gonna do, right? Steve sister Nikki and husband Jeff also had it too, and I am thinking we got it from our sweet little sugarbear Julian (Steve's great-nephew)!! We are watching him again tomorrow night, so let's hope he doesn't bring anymore new germies with him. The good part is we are all feeling better, and Violet wasn't affected my the virus at all. Dr. Abbott said she sounded great, and she is kicking away!

This weekend we are planning on finishing up our baby registries. Here is a picture of the bedding we have chosen, now I just have to make a trip out to USA Baby to see it in person!:

22 weeks

Here we are at 22 weeks! I was just looking at the ruler that I've been using since the baby was conceived. Violet's now at 11 inches!! What do I do when she surpasses the ruler? What an exciting little milestone that will be. Last weekend we began painting her room, and last night Daddy started putting together her dresser / changing table. It's quite an undertaking since none of the pieces were numbered, but he's doing a great job!

...and now for the weekly news:
"At 11 inches (the length of a spaghetti squash) and almost 1 pound, your baby is starting to look like a miniature newborn. His lips, eyelids, and eyebrows are becoming more distinct, and he's even developing tiny tooth buds beneath his gums. His eyes have formed, but his irises (the colored part of the eye) still lack pigment. If you could see inside your womb, you'd be able to spot the fine hair (lanugo) that covers his body and the deep wrinkles on his skin, which he'll sport until he adds a padding of fat to fill them in. Inside his belly, his pancreas — essential for the production of some important hormones — is developing steadily." - courtesy of babycenter.com

21 Weeks, IT'S A GIRL!

We are so happy to announce that we are having a baby girl! We've decided on the name Violet Sophia Schoff. It was an amazing day from the very beginning. At first Violet was really uncooperative in the ultrasound room. The tech even asked us, "Which one of you is the stubborn one?". Well of course I said Steve, but truth be told, it's BOTH of us. Little Miss Modest just wouldn't open her legs to get a good look. After what seemed like forever, the tech had me roll onto my left side and then Wa-lah....we got the shot we were looking for and she said "it's a girl"! I immediately teared up from excitement, and RELIEF. I was so worried we'd be leaving there without knowing the sex, and that would have really stressed me out!!!!!! So, thank you little one for making your Mommy SO happy today! The best part was that she looks very healthy and is growing perfectly. Violet's heart rate was 154 and she weighs 15 ounces (one shy of a full pound - yay). It's such a wonderful sensation to be calling her by name, it just makes everything that much more real. I am certainly counting my blessings today. I know we are so very fortunate to be where we are, and I am thankful to God for blessing our little, but growing family with so much! Here are some photo's from today:

Me and Steve with our Her"SHE"y Bar!

Becky, Mom, Me & Steve at breakfast celebrating little Violet!

BIG Kicks!

Sunday evening as we were sitting down to eat dinner I felt a kick!! Not just a little flick or light tap like normal. This was a biggie! So big, in fact, that it startled me and I jumped a little and said, "Oh my God". Baby gave me a good one, and I was so happy to feel it, but the sensation was definitely a little strange. I can't wait to feel more....so keep on kickin' on Baby Schoff!

Speaking of "Baby Schoff"....only a little more than a day and we'll actually be calling you by name, and not just "Baby" anymore! We can't wait!!!

20 weeks, 5 months, Halfway THERE!

I am so excited that I - I mean WE, are at the halfway point! Within the last few weeks I've started feeling a lot of movement which to me felt like rolling around and stretching. A few nights ago I (think) felt my first kick. It was one, followed by two more in a row. It was so neat. Of course, the kicks aren't hard enough for Steve to feel them from the outside, but I am so glad that I can feel them in my tummy!

Only 7 more days until the anatomy ultrasound, could time go any slower?? I mean, really it feels like I've been waiting for this appt. for YEARS! haha I told Steve that I will feel like a kid on Christmas morning, I just cannot wait for that day to get here! I know that I'll probably cry when we find out, I just want to start calling the baby by his/ her name.

Here are some pictures that Mamaw (my Mom) took yesterday evening of the new Mommy AND Daddy at 5 months! Try not to laugh to hard at Daddy!! He's such a goofball, I LOVE HIM!!!

20 weeks - YES, it's all about the POO!!!!!!!
"You're at the halfway mark — congratulations! Your baby weighs about 10 1/2 ounces now. He's also around 6 1/2 inches long from head to bottom and about 10 inches from head to heel — the length of a banana. (The way your baby is measured changes now.) He's swallowing more these days, which is good practice for his digestive system. He's also producing meconium, a black, sticky by-product of digestion. This gooey substance will accumulate in his bowels, and you'll see it in his first soiled diaper (although some babies pass meconium in the womb or during delivery). " - courtesy of babycenter.com

Garden Fairy!

Well Baby Schoff, you've got one heck of a Mamaw (my Mom)! While we were at work yesterday, she came over and cleared out our front garden, planted flowers and added bark mulch! I was in total shock when I came home....it looks FABULOUS! It was such a sweet surprise, and as you'll find out soon, she can be full of surprises! You have got great grandparents all the way around including Papaw & GiGi & Mamaw & Papaw Mustin. You are one lukcy BABY!