Life at the Formsma's

A LOT to be Thankful For

2010-11-23T19:43:00.000-08:00

Thankful List for 2010

1. For Jesus, his Mercy, Grace, Forgiveness and LOVE
2. Family...David, Abigail and many others who mean so much to me!
3. A roof over my head! A home that has brought much joy into our lives, that is growing and becoming our own special place to grow as a family.
4. We are blessed with employment and steady paychecks. What a Blessing this year!
5. Food in my belly. Really, that we know where and when our next meal will come from. For fresh water and sanitary places to cook. It's amazing how much I take for granted everyday.
6. Clothes on my back and shoes on my feet. Warm clothes, coats, mittens, hats, scarves, underwear. Yes, I'm thankful for underwear. :)
7. Friends. All kinds of friends that make me laugh and get me through life with a sense of humor and a hug when I need it!
8. Vehicle, that runs, that has air in the tires, gas in the tank and a key that starts.
9. Music. Worshipful, fun, energizing, happy, music! Jeremy Camp, Britt Nicole, Meredith Andrews, Taylor Swift (T-Swizzle), Lady Antebellum, Miranda Lamberts...to name a few. :)
10. A warm bed to sleep in, a pillow, blankets and a husband to kiss me good night. (Get your mind out of the gutter, I just said KISS...)

These are just to name a few things I am Joyous about this Thanksgiving. I also will be praying for my Grandma (GiGi) as she lost her husband yesterday to cancer. You were a loving and amazing man Grandpa. We love you and Rejoice that you are with your King.

Family Photos!

2010-10-18T08:57:00.001-07:00

We haven't had professional pictures done as a family since our Engagement Pictures in 2004! So, when Abigail turned One, we had them done. It was challenging to find a photographer that didn't charge a lot for a sitting fee. I looked into many different photography places. Then I decided to go with Marc Photography downtown Zeeland. We had a lot of fun with them, and it didn't break the bank! This was so fun (for David, not so much). I loved it! They turned our great.

"Little" Girl!

2010-09-30T06:55:00.000-07:00

We went to see the Doctor and learned that Abby is 16 pounds 14 ounces, she is 28 inches long. For being 13 months she is falling off the charts for her weight. She is less than 3% for her weight, and 25% for her height and head measurements. She is long and lean! :) A healthy "little" girl. The doctor didn't seem too concerned about her weight because she is getting the nutrition that she needs. She encouraged us to provide milk for Abigail 4 times a day. Also, to switch to soy or goats milk to help her "pass" more regularly. Our child has a difficult time, it takes her ALL DAY to pass a BM. Poor girl. I went to check out the goats milk. I've heard some good things about it...but my goodness $5.50 or more for a half gallon!? I don't think its that good. So we went with Soy with DHA. It is still around $4 for a half gallon, but it takes Abigail a week to get through that anyway. I hope this fixes the problem and helps her digest more comfortably. Yay for learning about MILK! Yay for helping my baby grow! Yay!!!!

13 months old!

2010-09-30T06:26:00.000-07:00

Abby is learning how to walk. She is getting closer everyday. She just has to get brave enough to let go of mommy and daddy to do it on her own!
We went Camping At the Holland State park at the end of August. There we celebrated Abby's First Birthday! It was a lot of fun, with lots of family, friends and food!

David and I had fun playing cards after the babe went to bed. We are not used to staying up past 10:00...as you can see from David's expression. It was fun being the the family for the week!

Abby played by the water, trying on Auntie Rachel's sunglasses. She is learning about the sand and water. She still doesn't like the water as much, it's too BIG and Scary. Hopefully by next year she will be running around and splashing in the water.

Something Abby is not afraid of is the stairs. She love to limb the stairs. I have to keep an eye on her because she is fast. She gets to the top in no time. It is fun to see her explore and learn all kinds of new things.

Emotions!

2010-08-17T17:49:00.001-07:00

This week has been interesting. I find myself being more emotional than normal. Lately I'm am: RR (Roller coaster Renee). I recently realized there are some reasons...

1. Abby is turning 1 in less than a week and a half!
2. She isn't my baby anymore...she is pulling her self up, can take steps with help, can climb stairs (thanks Aunt Laurie) and has a personality of her own!
3. We are down to one feeding a day, so we are almost done nursing. Bittersweet!
4. Without nursing, my hormones are trying to get back to normal.
5. I see everything we have gone through as new parents in the past year, and am extremely BLESSED to have so much love and support. Thanks David for being such a great Dad and supportive husband.

Book Review

2010-08-09T11:06:00.000-07:00

I am a nerd, as most of you know. I also am a cheater because I listen to books on CD. I do read when I have time, which is not very often. So, I have a funny story about a 'book' (on CD) I just checked out of the Library.
Before I tell you, you have to know I just randomly pick what might sound good, there is no rhyme or reason to my selections. Pretty much, what I'm in the mood for.
So, I found to "New Release" section and there was a cowboy romance called "McKettricks of Texas: Tate" Which is a book about a rancher who is falls back in love with his long lost girlfriend. With some twists etc.
So, it sounded like a summer romance type of thing, which I haven't read in a while. So I listen to it on my way back and forth from work. It was good, until I get a few chapters in. Then OUT OF NO WHERE...there is this DETAILED intimate scene. So, I tried to just push past a little further by fast forwarding...and it keeps going, and going and going. As I'm fast forwarding I'm hearing words that I have never heard of before. It was a whole CHAPTER on this intense love scene...and it was so descriptive. I was blushing and I had to shut it off! I was so embarrassed listening to the little parts that I did hear. Anyway, I can't finish this book! It is awful!
I'm sure glad I didn't have it blaring while I was stopped at an intersession with my windows down! That would have made a great impression on someone.
I guess from now on I should stick with Karen Kingsbury and authors I am sure won't have things like that in there. If anyone has read anything great this summer, let me know. I plan on actually READING while we are at the beach in a few weeks. There is something great about reading a good book and soaking up the sun! With out Sex scenes!

Baby Weight

2010-08-05T06:05:00.000-07:00

During my pregnancy with Abigail I gained 36 pounds! Considering that I have been through gestational diabetes, that # was pretty good. I ate pretty healthy through my prenancy, with the occasional craving (tater tots and icee's!). After I got home from the hospital I only had lost 10 pounds. What a dissapointment. For me, nursing helped a little to get things started with my weight loss. It didn't do mericles either. A few weeks ago, I realized that Abby will be ONE in a few weeks. Then felt guilty that I haven't been making time toward a healthier weight. I had already lost the 36 pounds but still have 17 to go to get to the weight I should be at. So, 3 weeks ago I started counting points for Weight Watchers. I don't go to meetings because I'm a busy lady and I'm dutch. So I bought a fitness tracking notebook. I write down everything I eat and activities I do every day. It is working great, it just takes some dicipline and motivation. This helps me be more aware of my activity level and accountable for what goes into my mouth. I am being more active everyday by riding bike, power walking, yoga, arms, abs (my least favorite), and occasionally running. I used to be really into running. I love it. But I have felt that it bulks me up more than slim me down. So, its all good in moderation. I have been taking it ONE day at a time. I have found some success. Here are my goals...

Lose 17 pounds by August 30 (Abby's Birthday)
Since I started I have lost: 11.5 lbs
I have 5.5 pounds to go!

Rockin a Mohawk

2010-07-24T13:48:00.000-07:00

Since I am a stylist, it is just my luck that I had a baby born with little or no hair! Finally, Abby has a little something for me to work with. Here are a few pics of us playing around with her Locks! :)

This is my fave. She has this "David" scowl on her face.

Dad Life!

2010-07-19T07:31:00.000-07:00

This is a little late for Fathers Day...but we can celebrate Fathers everyday! I have to say, it resembles my husband quite a bit! Love you honey, thanks for being an amazing Dad! Enjoy this video, it is Amazing! (Thanks Kevin for sending it to us!)

Wordless Wednesday

2010-07-14T18:32:00.000-07:00

Adios Facebook!

2010-06-29T19:23:00.001-07:00

I did it! I deactivated my account on Facebook. It feels so FREEING! I have felt strongly about taking time away from Facebook, and there were so many things keeping me on there. Excuses to keep in touch with old friends, to update people on Abigail. But really, I feel like I need time away from giving away too much information to people that don't need to know. The people that need to know, already know what is going on in my life (and actually care). So, for those of you who are interested in keeping up with Abigail's growth, and want to keep in touch...I will still post blogs and you can still reach me at my GMail account. rformsma@gmail.com I am excited to spend the time I would have normally be checking Facebook on hanging out with Abigail, working out and spending time with God. So... Peace Out Facebook!!!!!

New Tricks!

2010-06-09T19:40:00.000-07:00

Abigail is now 9 Months old! On June 1 she started crawling! She had been army crawling for a while. Since I work Wednesday through Saturday, I was afraid I might miss seeing her crawl for the first time. So Abby and I had a talk. I said "Abigail, you need to crawl for mommy, before she has to go back to work." I'm not kidding...two minutes later, she crawled slowly to me. She is so awesome!!!! Abigail Loves taking all of the diapers out of her diaper carrier.
Then one week after she started crawling... I go to get Abigail from her room after her nap, and find her standing up, with a big grin on her face! Abby Loves her Puppy...Good Luck MAX!!!!

Tulip Time

2010-05-23T13:32:00.000-07:00

It was wonderful having GG (Great Grandma) make Abigail her first Dutch Costume. It is very special. Here are a few pictures...

Blue Eyes, Blonde Hair, Dutch Girl! Grammy came over and helped me put on my costume when it was finished!
It fits perfect!
And the hat makes it complete!

Daddy isn't a fan of Tulip Time...and was teasing me in my costume!

Visit from Kyperman!

2010-04-20T07:35:00.000-07:00

Sorry it's been a while. We have been too busy with LIFE!
About a Month ago, my friend Julie came across state for a visit. Her son is a month and a half apart from Abigail. It was a joy to see them getting to know each other. Kyper was fascinated with Abby's face, and wanted to give her a kiss. Abby was just as fascinated with Kyper wondering why he was putting his face so close to hers. It was a fun play date. Daddy came home to see these pictures and said...it's happening already, boys better stay away from my little girl! Here are a few fun pictures...

Last Year...

2010-03-29T08:48:00.000-07:00

Looking back to this time last year, we were announcing to everyone that we were expeciting Abby! It's crazy to think that she was only a little peanut at the time. And now, she is bigger everyday and such a joy to have in our lives!

Solid Foods!

2010-03-16T12:44:00.000-07:00

We started giving Abigail Rice Cereal at the begining of 6 months. She has been making chewing motions with her mouth, so we gave it a shot. She did pretty well. She wanted to hold the spoon and feed herself. A pretty independant little girl.Mommy started out...Then it was Daddy's turn...But Abby wanted to feed herself. She didn't need our help...In the end...it was pretty messy, but delicious!

Almost Mobile!

2010-03-16T12:26:00.000-07:00

Our little miss Abigail is learning how to sit on her own! She does pretty well, up to 4 minutes no her own, then falls back. She reaches for many things when she sits, and most of the time grabs what is in her reach.

Also, Abigail has been making a lot of progress with mobility. She rolls to get places, which is scary. One second she is on her mat and the next she is by my feet! Watch out, soon we will have to get the baby gates up. It is so exciting seeing her grow!

Growing, Growing!

2009-12-11T05:16:00.000-08:00

Abigail is growing so much! She is getting more expressive everyday! It's so exciting to see her personality coming out. Here are some new pics! Happy Holidays everyone!!!!!!!

Growing!

2009-11-12T09:02:00.000-08:00

Abby is getting bigger everyday! She loves to look around at everything!!!! I can't belive she is already 10 Weeks old!!!!! Here are some new pics!

Visit!

2009-10-10T09:34:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, my old childhood friend Julie came into town with her new son, Kyper. She lives in Detroit, and had been living in Iowa before that. Since she has been living so far away and life is so busy, we haven't seen each other in...years! It was wonderful to visit with her and Kyper, and have some Mommy Talk and reminiscing on fond child hood memories! It's crazy to think we are both Mommy's now. It actually feels natural to see Julie as a mom. I feel like it was yesterday that we were talking about boys and playing capture the flag. I hope David and I could take a road trip and visit them sometime in the near future! And not let too many years fly by before we see each other again.

Abby and Kyper getting to know each other...Kyper and Abigail are 2 months apart.

They Both were early and weighed almost the same! :)

Handsome Kyper!

Firsts Cont...

2009-10-10T09:26:00.001-07:00

Another first was going Apple Picking at Crane's Apple Orchard! We went with our friends Nicole and Ellie! We picked Honey Crisp and some Baking Apples. Delicious!

Abigail Napping, the apple was almost as big as her head!

Our friend Ellie! Such a cutie!

Firsts!

2009-10-10T09:17:00.000-07:00

I'm a little behind on my posts. It's very difficult to type when you have a baby in your arms. So, Abby is down for a nap, and I'm going to quick get a few in!
One of our first Adventures was to the Beach! We went to the Holland State Park, which has a special meaning to us now, since I went into Labor there! Abby got to make a REAL Apperance there this time. We went with Kevin (bro-in-law) and Rachel (sis-in-law). It was very nice getting out of the house, and the weather was beautiful!

Abby Napping while we walked around!

Rachel and Kevin! Such a cute couple! :)

Our new little family!

Life with Abby

2009-10-07T15:38:00.000-07:00

Here are a few random pics...

A Stressful Start

2009-10-06T07:59:00.000-07:00

Abigail was born 3 weeks early. We are so blessed that we didn't have many problems considering the suprise arrival. Being a new mom and dad, we didn't realize some things about what can happen to babies when they are born. I have heard of jaundice before, but didn't know how it was treated. So, while struggling to breastfeed and learning about our new baby, the Dr. orders us a Billy Lamp to get rid of the jaundice. I cried the day the lady hooked her up to this machine! We were stuck to a 10 foot radius in the living room for a week. Considering we didn't have to be in the hospital this time is a blessing. It was not fun, but we got through it.
Then, once I came to terms with everything, a few days later, I had a blood clot in my leg. It was about 5 inches long above my knee. Red, inflamed and very painful I went with my Mother in law to the hospital to get it checked out. After a few hours of waiting and testing they said it wasn't anything to worry about.
The only funny thing about out adventure to the hospital was calling Daddy to see how he was doing with our new daughter. It was the first time for him being alone with her. He was in a panic because she was pooping everywhere while he was trying to change her diaper. The Billy Lamp helps her get rid of toxins because her liver was underdeveloped...meaning she had many dirty diapers. Daddy did a good job cleaning her up! Hey, we have to break him in sometime!

Welcome to the World Abby!

2009-09-17T07:02:00.000-07:00

First let me begin by saying that I believe in God! He has shown me that HE is in control, and HE has his own perfect plan for everything!
About 2 months ago, my doctor told me I have Gestational Diabetes. This type is common among pregnant women. So I only had this one complication during my whole pregnancy! It was stressful because they ended up putting me on a low dose pill to balance my blood sugar, since my body didn't want to filter it properly!
Staying active wasn't an issue for me, I felt great and kept working and doing my normal activities.
We went camping with David's Family the last week in August. That week I still worked Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. I had a FULL Schedule at work, which was wonderful, but at the end of the day, I was whooped! Wednesday, I saw my Dr. She said I was dilated to 1 and thinned out 25%! I was excited. Especially since they were going to induce me if I didn't have her before Sept. 21. Then again, I didn't want to get too excited about going early because its not that common for first pregnancy's. That Thursday I had an appointment for a Non stress test, because of the diabetes they wanted to make sure she was doing OK. During my stress test they said I was having a few contractions, which I couldn't feel. They told me, not to worry about it...its common. Friday I had another FULL day @ work, I got to the campground and needed to lay down. My Blood sugar was really low because of being SO busy @ work. I went to lay down and read NEW MOON...then I felt really low cramps...I asked my Doctor about this @ 6 months. She said it was just stretching, not a big deal, just rest. So, that's all I thought it was, and that I worked too hard that day.
Saturday was great, except for the rain. We played cards and hung out with the family. David and I walked to the beach in the yucky weather 2 times that day. This week was wonderful for David and I to have quality time together and just hang out. During our walks I cramped a little...but I still didn't worry because it didn't feel like contractions. And I still felt really good.
Sunday Morning, August 30, @ 5am, I had to Pee really bad. So, I get up and I'm peeing myself all the way to the bathroom. I thought I was crazy...good thing I had a pad on! I look and its PINK? I thought, maybe its the light, maybe I'm just really tired. I get up and go back to bed. I started getting the same cramps, low and light. Then I had to pee again...6am, and I pee myself the whole way there, again. Then, I really didn't feel good, so I go to the bath house and sit on the toilet for 20 minutes. Then I prayed "LORD, if I'm TRULY in labor, give be a CLEAR sign!" Then I had my mucus plug come out. I couldn't belive it! I'm 3 weeks early! I go back to the trailer...and tell David, " Hunny, we have a delema, my water broke." He said, "yeah right, go back to bed, I'm sure your not in labor." I said " no, really!" Then the cramping started more, and I needed to move around, I couldn't just lay there. Walking felt better. At this point we are giggling like school girls, because my brother and sister-in-law are in the room next to us, and we were in shock, but didn't want to wake anyone up! We went for a walk, called the Dr. He said, if your contractions aren't 5 minutes apart by 5:00pm, come to the hospital anyway. In the mean time, try and relax, we will see you soon! We weren't in a hurry, so we told my mother-in-law, my water broke...she said " are you sure you didn't just wet your pants?" LOL
Then we packed up, went home. We didn't have any clean clothes, since it was our last day @ the campgrounds...so David did some laundry and cleaned out the trailer, while I started Major contractions, and kept sitting on the toilet, feeling like I had to poop (even tho, it was the baby making me feel that way.) At the same time I start dry heaving and throwing up foam. Later, I found out that it was the transition into hard labor that was making me throw up.
At 12:00 my contractions were very strong. David insisted on me sitting down, and I could do no such thing...He wanted to time my contractions, but it seemed like they were coming faster and faster. I told him, "we need to go to the hospital, to be sure everything is ok!" He, didn't want to go right then, and so we tried to time them, they were 6 minutes apart. So we went. By the time we got there, I could barely think, or walk! My nurse checked me, I was dilated to 6!!!!!! Serioulsy????????? My exact words..."HOLY S***!?"
We were both in shock! She orderd an epodoral, staydol and called Dr. Taylor. Staydol was a trip...it helped ease the pain a little, but made me loony toons! Then my epodoral came shortly after. We started pushing @ 2:18 and she was born @ 3:15.
I couldn't belive I just had a baby, she was here! I didn't cry, because I was in too much shock that everything had happened so fast!
She weighed 6lbs 6oz, was 18.5 in long. Healthy! I saw God in the moment I looked at her. He created this perfect person. I can't take credit for any of it...He is an amazing, loving God!
Her name was hard to decide...but the meaning won me over...
Abigail ="The Fathers Joy"
We kept Joy for the Middle name, because we want her to have JOY in her life!
So, that is the story of how Abigail Joy came into the world!

Abigail Joy!

2009-09-12T14:19:00.000-07:00

Sorry I haven't had time to up date...here are a few pictures...
I promise I will tell our story soon!

Losing My Mind

2009-08-03T21:00:00.001-07:00

So, I guess your baby sucks the brains out of you when you are pregnant. I am learning new things everyday of what my baby is doing to me and my body!
I went to the Dr. today and she gave me a folder full of fun information. So I leave and run a few errands around town, get home, unload groceries. Then I thought "where did I put that folder?" So I look in the most obvious places, can't find it. Then I go back to the car, nothing. I thought "Am I losing my mind? I swear I had it in my hands! Where could it be?" A friend came over and I try to forget about it. After she left, I went through the house once again. Not hard to miss it since I just cleaned. I thought..."did I throw it away? I couldn't have, its too important! Maybe it got mixed in with other things? No, it has to be here somewhere." I thought back to the Dr. I checked out, had it right there, carried it out...I had to pee (again)...OH YEAH!!!!!!!! I set it down on the paper towel dispenser!!!!!!!!!! CRAP! Now how in the heck am I suppose to get it, its 11:30 at night. Hopefully I can get another folder from the Dr. tomorrow.
Seriously, I thought I lost my mind today! Then again, I am Blonde...there isn't much to lose! ha ha!

YAY!

2009-07-20T11:32:00.000-07:00

The past week was kinda rough. From my last post, you can gather what I'm talking about. SO, this week I have a new perspective and am filtering out the bad. I'm so excited because I have my first Baby Shower On Sunday for My Husbands side of the family! I can't wait to see everyone! Summer can be so busy, its hard to see all the relatives and keep up with everyone! I also am super happy because I have 2 really good friends that just had their babies! Things went well for both of them, which makes me less nervous about my own labor and delivery! David also seems to be getting more excited, and also more protective of me. Yesterday he wanted me to take my phone with me for a walk...and told me I could go for my normal around the block walk because its too far for a pregnant lady. Haha! It's cute that he gets that way. I have to reassure him that its OK, and that I wouldn't go further than I can handle.
So, YaY for Showers, Babies and the Future!

Rollercoaster Renee

2009-07-15T19:18:00.000-07:00

Why do people think they have the right to say whatever they want to you just because you have a baby in your belly? Seriously? Or ask you whatever they want? Today I had someone ask me so many questions I can't even count. And of course I'm stuck in a tiny room with no way out. Here it goes...

When are you due?
Oh...(long pause...this is when you should shut up...but don't...) you are HUGE for that much longer to go.
Hmm...that means you have....(yes lady, do the math...10 weeks...less than 3 months...)
Well, is there Dutch in your family?
U know, those Dutch can be really BIG...it looks like you will have a really BIG baby!
(This is when I don't say anything, and leave the room to go get something, so I don't strangle her or give her a piece of my mind)
Do you have the nursery done?
Is your husband excited?
What does your husband do?
Do you have any siblings?
Are your parents excited?
Are your in-laws excited?
Is this the first grand child... how many? Boy's or Girls?
So your sister has a baby? Is it a girl too?
What is your baby's name going to be?
Where does your husband work?

And believe me...I gave her the short answer for everything, and tried to change the subject back to skincare or anything else. I felt trapped and couldn't breathe.
I love talking to friends and family about these things, but not complete strangers!

I have read many times about how you get to a point in your pregnancy that you get annoyed easier and are sick of the constant questions and attention. Well, I'm there. Don't get me wrong, I love my baby, and I'm super excited. But I'm tired of answering the same questions to strangers, over and over again. Can't we talk about something else? Like them. I can't just ask them whatever I want. I wish I could say "wow, you look like your still hangin' on to that baby weight from your 28 year old son!"

Water weight is not fun, neither are kankles, spider veins, cellulite and the # on the scale jumping... so telling a pregnant lady that she looks HUGE for where she is at, isn't nice. Especially since she has no control over the matter.

Children are a blessing! I know that all of this will be worth it. At night when I feel her being a crazy monkey in there, I forget about all of the crappy things people say and know that God has a hand in this creation! It's not about me. My body is a vessel that God is using to create life, it may not be pretty (so don't look at it) but out of it will come the most amazing thing...a little Miracle!

Get Away!

2009-07-06T17:28:00.001-07:00

This weekend was such a blessing! David and I went up to Silver Lake to stay with our friends Crystal and Mike and their Parents! This might be the last time we get away "out of town" before the baby comes. It also was a great opportunity for us to see up close and personal how much work and fun it is to be a parent. Here are a few pictures from our fun weekend!

Cravings!

2009-06-25T07:20:00.000-07:00

Most of you probably have heard by now, that I have a thing for Tater Tots! Thanks to my husband who told the world that all he eats at home for dinner is Tater Tots with everything. Yes, its true! I've had interesting cravings through this pregnancy. The funny thing is, I never really had a thing for Tater Tots. (Ron White would appreciate this! ha ha!) And really, you can't have Tater Tots with out LOTS OF KETCHUP! Then I went from wanting them with every meal, to only once a week. Then it turned into MILK! For the past 2 or 3 months I have consumed more Milk than I have in a whole year. For me, Milk wasn't my favorite, but I enjoyed a glass once and a while. Now, I go through a Gallon and a half on my own. Therefore I have to purchase 3 a week. Before I was buying 2, but by Sunday we would have to stop at the store to get more. Oops! ha ha! :)
Another funny thing...when I first found out I was pregnant I wanted any kind of Vegetable I could find. I even tried Bristle Sprouts for the first time! From Salads to Broccoli I was in love. Then one day I got home from work and Cauliflower sounded good. I had been doing the steam bags, which were great! So I made some...and started gagging at the smell. I thought it was just a fluke thing, so I insisted on eating my precious cauliflower...and could only get down 2 bites before I wanted to throw up. Ever since then, Broccoli, Cauliflower, Asparagus, and many more veggies are NOT on my plate. I can handle carrots, corn, green beans, and some more. Then Tuesday I was at work, and all of a sudden I needed a Salad! (Strange because Salads were on that yucky sounding list). So I went to Subway and got a huge Green Salad with everything! I seriously have Never eaten a salad that fast, and enjoyed it that much in my whole life! Funny how our bodies tell us what we need...and when we need it!
Hopefully this little girl will not come out looking like a Tater Tot! :)

Fathers Day and Preggo Pics

2009-06-21T12:34:00.001-07:00

Ok! Since people want to see preggo pics of me...here they are!

15 weeks

16 weeks

19 weeks

23 weeks

26 weeks

Fathers day is a day to thank the men in your life for their guidance and presence. But its hard for some of us whose fathers are absent. For whatever reason...there are many of us who try to move on without a father in our lives. So, we try and look to the other men in our lives that have made a difference. But its not the same. Some don't know the difference because they have never had a "dad" in their life. I'm telling you, its hard when you have had a Dad and then things change, and he is gone...or changed, or indifferent. When you look at the Man who used to be the best man in the world, your Hero, and he looks different, acts different and the Hero you once knew is lost. So fathers day is defined differently for me. For the past 6 years I have looked at My Grandpa VerHoeven to celebrate with him, and thank him for stepping in and being there for me. Now, he is no longer with me. So this year is different. I am thankful to have a wonderful Father-in-Law who is a great family man, who follows God and is an excellent example to my husband of what a Father should look like. I have learned to look at the Positive and look at the Men in my life that may not be my Dad, and are never able to fill those shoes, but are amazing Men and deserve to be honored for everything they are! I look to my husband and think of what a lucky little girl we have, because she will have the best Daddy in the world. That is the greatiest gift I could ever give my child. A father who won't walk away, a man who will give her the knowledge of life and live through God's example. So this is for my husband who has been with me through it all! Happy Fathers Day David! I can't wait to share this new Journey of Parenthood with you!

Duke

2009-06-02T05:29:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we had to say good bye. Duke has been with us for a little over a year and a half. I've said to people "he isn't our dog". Yesterday I realized how untrue that statement really was. I've been a mess all weekend with a ton of mixed emotions. This has been a very hard decision for both parties involved. I look at the fact that he has been so good lately and happy. Then I think of this past winter, or when the weather changes and how much pain I see him in. What makes me so upset is when people see him and say "oh...he's fine" "there's nothing wrong with him, he's just old." And then we go home and I watch him struggle to climb stairs, see him fall down multiple times just trying to get up from laying down, or see the pain in his eyes when his nerves pinch and surge up and down his back. These are the things other people don't see everyday. David reminded me yesterday of these things, and the reason this decision was made. I have seen friends keep their dog alive, and let them suffer. Getting to the point of putting a diaper on him because of accidents, or seeing them struggle to even walk. I had to be reminded that none of us would have wanted to see Duke go through that. I wish people wouldn't judge others when it comes to making such a big decision. We gave him a year and a half longer on this earth. There are so many good things I will miss about Duke... Today, I miss his noise. You don't realize how noisy an older dog is until they aren't around. I've been waiting to hear him snoring, panting, itching, drinking or his collar jingling. I will miss him coming up to me and giving me his paw to shake, even when I didn't ask him to give me his paw. I will miss seeing him roll in the grass like a crazy animal. I will miss him laying there rubbing his ears and face, waiting to be pet. I will miss how much he loved to be brushed. I will miss his eyes, that he looked at me like I could do no wrong. He has touched our lives! We will miss him!

Negativity!

2009-05-20T15:21:00.001-07:00

I realize being Pregnant comes with its "Emotional Roller Coaster" moments! I also realize when I'm being "emotional" and when I'm being a normal human being. This week has been filled with negativity from others and it is on my last nerve. I typically won't use facebook or blogging for venting, because I work hard at not being a negative person. (which hopefully people agree...but who knows how others perceive me) Anyway, I don't understand how sitting around talking about how "fat" or "ugly" or "stupid" does any good, for yourself or anyone else. Yes, everyone has their opinion about certain things in life...and that is OK. But the things I have been hearing lately is just out of control mean. I think the Media and many worldly events are negative enough, we should be looking at the positive things in life! Or else there won't be anything left to be positive about. I felt so great today after I uplifted a person, telling them how important they are and what a great job they are doing. Much better than if I would sit around and pick other people apart until there is nothing else left! So, say something nice to someone today...isn't that what God would want us to be doing with our time here anyway?

House

2009-05-04T14:13:00.000-07:00

I know many of you are wondering what the upstairs looks like now that its finished. So here are some pics of our "new" updated house! Enjoy!

Anniversary!

2009-04-30T03:20:00.001-07:00

Today David and I have been married for 4 years! Also...I'm awake because we are going to have our ultrasound in 2 hours...and can't sleep! So, Happy Anniversary Babe! The past 4 years have been quite an adventure. Mixed in with the good and bad...but I would have to say this past year together has been the best so far! I know that there are going to be many more hills to climb and great times along the way. I am so lucky to be spending the rest of my life with my best friend. You have been there for me through hell and back. Thank you for sticking by my side. I'm so excited about this new journey of parenthood that we are going to experience together. You will make an excellent father because you already are an amazing husband!

Freak of Nature!

2009-04-25T19:14:00.000-07:00

Most of you know that we are taking care of Duke! Our 13 year old Golden Retriever! He is afraid of storms. Which we knew...but didn't really think about until later tonight after the storm had been going strong for a few hours. David mentioned to me a few hours before..."Duke might be freaking out." I haven't seen Duke really freak out before...just get nervous and start panting a lot. He has medication for storm anxiety. I've only given it to him once because he was panting uncontrollably last spring during a storm...but we also were home to watch him.

Well...tonight we went to our friend MC & Nicole's house to hangout. We got home @ 9ish to find our old bedroom destroyed and Duke FREAKING OUT! I actually felt like I was walking into John Grogan's house from Marley and ME... except Marley=Duke! It is sad to see him freaking out like that...but then I was freaking out to see the mess and just hope that nothing was damaged beyond repair! The bedroom he was in is our old bedroom on the main level, which is now the "doggie room". Where Max or Duke will go for food and water or to sleep when we are gone. The only things in that room are storage items, cleaning things, and shoes. Luckily, he didn't eat any of my shoes. Thank you Lord! :) haha...

Anyway...here are some pics of our night tonight!!!!!!

Garage Sale!!!!!!!!

2009-04-18T14:00:00.000-07:00

Today was the perfect day for having a Garage Sale! We were so lucky the weather cooperated today! To top the weather off, I think we all did pretty well! My sister-in-law Rachel was so nice for letting us add things to her Garage sale, since most of us live in the middle of nowhere...aka...Beaverdam! So it was nice combining efforts and getting rid of our gently used crap! Also, since this morning I couldn't button my "fat pants"...I think it is time to get some meternity jeans! I made $107 today, and my sweet husband is letting me use some of it for some meternity clothes! Thanks hunny!

The only sad part of this Garage Sale, is my Precious Moments! I have been collecting them since I was a little girl. I have quite a few, enough to make some serious $ with. Since I have moved out of my parents house, they have been nicely packed in a box. But they have been in there almost 8 years. Not thinking that would be bad...half of the Precious moments were missing heads, legs, etc... So sad! I have maybe half of them...but most of my favorites were broken and unsellable. I did manage to sell a few at the Garage Sale, but I still have a good amount! So I will be posting them on Craigslist shortly. Hopefully they can find someones loving shelf, before they have to sit in a box forever.

What a great day of seeing friends out and about, and hanging out with the Fam! I love Garage Sales! :)

The Storyline

2009-04-11T18:23:00.000-07:00

I just got back from seeing the Storyline going on Downtown Zeeland. It was amazing! Many of you may have heard of it or have seen it! But it is the Story of Jesus, His Crucifixion and Resurrection. Many area churches helped put it together. Each room is part of the story. You go through 10 rooms and listen to the story on a headset.
This week hasn't felt much like Easter. Mainly because I worked all week and havn't had the chance to participate with any extra activities such as Maudy Thursday, or Good Friday services. Which saddens me because I enjoy these activities to reflect and clear my head from all the crap the world. It helps be focus on the reason for the season and Jesus!
I was incredibly touched by what this story brought to light. Yes, I've heard it thousands of times, but it's amazing how I can still learn something new everytime. God is teaching me new ways of looking at life and His purpose for me!
Anyway, Thanks to my Sis-in-Law for inviting me to go with her. And I look forward to some quality family time and worship time tomorrow.
God Bless you and your family this Easter!
Praise the Lord! HE HAS RISEN!

Sunshine!

2009-04-09T07:45:00.001-07:00

What a beautiful day! I thought it might be chilly, so I put on my windbreaker with a hoodie on it. I got to the end of the block and was hot! I made myself get out there today. I've been taking it easy because I've been throwing up and it was soooo cold! So today I took Casey for our routine little jog that I did all last summer. I walked a block, jogged a block, walked a block and jogged a block! I haven't been jogging in a while, so I don't want to over do it. But I want to enjoy some jogging before it gets too uncomfortable. YES...I checked with the Doc...she said it is fine since my body is used to jogging, I can continue doing it! It felt sooooo good! I hope that the sun will stay out and we can actually enjoy the spring! So, hopefully I can get out every morning and get back to my special bonding time with Casey!!!!! (Casey is our English Setter...she is Beautiful but WILD!)

Moving In!

2009-04-05T11:29:00.000-07:00

This week as been busy with getting new Carpet upstairs! Wednesday the Carpet people came and did their thing! It looks so nice! Carpet makes the upstairs feel like a home. More welcoming and more finished! We also have been trying to organize ourselves by sorting through clothes. We moved the Bed, Dresser and night stand into our new room! David got a closet organizer, so we can use the closet in the best way possible! David always says I have tons of clothes, but I didn't belive him until we went through everything. The sad part is, I don't wear half of them, and most of it I need to get rid of anyway! My sister-in-law Rachel is having a garage sale, so I plan on bringing a few things there and helping her out! Good timing to spring clean!

So we have spent a few nights in our new beedroom! It is wonderful! It is hard to get used to a nice new surroundings. WE have a great night light from the neighbors house...(mom and dad). Their driveway is lined with lights, and it is the perfect glow @ night! Thanks mom and dad!

Max is so confused! He didn't know what we were doing upstairs. He stood in the hall way and cocked his head. Then he wasn't sure if he was suppose to stay up there with us! I think he gets it...but being the Terrier he is...he doesn't like change. Duke has been sleeping down stairs. He is sad beacuse he doesn't like the big stairs. But it works out good, because I don't want his stinky, hairy body on my new carpet. So he has a little extra peice of carpet in the entryway that he sleeps on at night.

Also, Thursday my sister-in-law/ brother-in-law Laurie and Jason had her baby. He was a boy named Noah Paul Adams! He is super cute! David and I are very excited to be Aunt Renee and Uncle David! Congrats guys!

So, there is an update for everyone...
Oh and also, I woke up Saturday Morning to find a harder more noticable stomach...so little Squirt is trying to make his apperance. I say 'his' because we don't know if its a girl or boy yet. On April 30 we will find out! Yay!

The Search!

2009-03-25T18:43:00.000-07:00

What a great night out with David! We had so many things to do! When I got home from work he was waiting for me to go shopping with him! Crazy! I'm the shopper, find a good deal, look around then decide...he's the go get what you want and get on with life. But we actually went shopping my style tonight, and he didn't even rush me or bicker with me! GREAT JOB HUNNY!

Shower curtain and stuff for the bathroom were on the list, but no such luck! Everything we looked at was ugly and blah blah blah colors! I didn't really think about picking a shower curtain BEFORE painting the bathroom, but looking at what we have to pick from stinks and makes me think otherwise! I did find a cute one @ Target...in a PICTURE ON THE WALL! So I guess its Online shopping for me to find what I want. David and I were excited to pick things out together, but we went home empty handed! But I guess Dave Ramsey would be happy with us.

David is doing a great job finding good deals on blinds for the house. I can't believe we have gone with out any for 5 years! I thought it might be a good idea since our bedroom faces my in-laws house...we don't need them getting a peep show or anything! Haha!

This adventure makes me realize how great the internet truly is! So many ideas at your fingertips, and you can't depend going into the store to find what you really need!

Sick of being Sick!

2009-03-24T10:10:00.001-07:00

Ok, so I've been sick for 4 days now! (I've heard this is going around right now, and I'm not one to catch many colds!) I can't really do anything about it besides use up more kleenex's, drink more water and sleep more. I feel really bad for my husband who I've been keeping up at night with my hacking, blowing and going to the bathroom every 2 hours (sorry hunny!). It is crazy being wide awake at 1:00, 2:00, 4:00, 5:00... in the morning! Then you lay and think about all the things you could be doing. Then you resort back to hacking, blowing and going to the bathroom again! YAY! I hope tomorrow I can get back to work and start feeling better! Hopefully tonight will be a better nights sleep for the both of us!

On a more positive note! We made a decision! We actually picked out Tile for the bathroom and laundry room! Awesome! Which, David and I sometimes don't see eye to eye on color or design...but its been coming together pretty quickly! Maybe this weekend tile can be installed! This is great, since David and his family have been working so hard lately! Our goal is to be done with the upstairs by April 30, our 4 year Anniversary! This way we can enjoy it and get used to the new space in our home before the baby comes!

New at This!

2009-03-23T16:47:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone out there! I can't belive I'm doing this Blogging thing! I may not be good at Blogging. Or maybe I'll be good at it! Besides... I always have something to say...right?

So, as most of the world knows David and I are having a baby!!!! He or She (Squirt) is due September 21! I'm 14 weeks and feel pretty good. Except for having a head cold. And if you would ask David...he would say I'm a "different" person now that I'm Preggo! *Crabby, emotional rollercoaster who use to resemble his wife*

Haha...yes, I'm sorry hunny, you get the raw end of the deal...thanks for putting up with all of my emotional crap! Only about 6 months to go!

So...I have to thank David for all of the hard work he has been doing on the house. Ever since we got pregnant its like a switch went off. The upstairs is mostly done. Thanks to Mom and Dad Formsma who have been helping out so much! We couldn't have done it without you guys! :)

Here are a few pics of the house before and after!