4 Weeks old!!

I cannot believe it. Devlin is 4 weeks old today!!! He is now 8.8lbs!!! It's going by so fast. Devlin has been staying more alert during the day which is really cool. He likes to listen to the St. Edward's choir and the organ at church. I can't wait to see him roll over which is coming soon. He's been scooting around in the cradle a lot and he almost rolled over yesterday. He has been a bit under the weather yesterday and today, but he should be okay. Just a little cold. We'll still get him checked out next week to make sure he hasn't caught the RSV.

I'm doing okay...tired...exhausted...but extremely happy. We are blessed to have Devlin in our lives so any of the downs of the economy...finances...etc. don't mean much when we think of him.

More pictures!!: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=2133708&l=0942f&id=73403786

Almost 2wks old

Well, time is really flying. I don't like looking at the calendar because I know in 6 weeks my son will no longer be with me every day, but in childcare and I'll be back at work. That's really hard to think about. We'd love if one of us could be stay-at-home, but unfortunately we cannot afford it. I wish we could. Devlin has already lost his umbilical cord and is now 6lbs 7oz. We had holiday pictures taken this week and should have them next week. Alex goes back to work tomorrow. Other than that, we're doing pretty good. I'm still a little sore and really tired, but I have enough time to nap during the day. I keep uploading pictures to facebook links, so feel free to ckeck them out from time to time. Tomorrow is our first day on our own together, we'll see how it goes!

Finally Home

We are truly blest. Our doctor decided it was okay for both of us to go home on Sunday. We got home around 1pm. Our first night went rather well. He's eating a lot better and more frequently. As a result, I was up most of the night. But, Devlin was nice enough to let me get about 3 1/2 hours of sleep all at once at one point which was nice. Alex has been super supportive in helping out even though I'm breastfeeding. He might be sleeping on the floor while I'm doing that, but it's nice that he gets up with me and comes into the nursery. It makes it feel like a team effort. Here's a link to pictures that I posted. Please advise that there are a few pictures of breastfeeding (though not all-revealing), so if you don't want to see those, be prepared. http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=34589570&l=fbd5e&id=73403786

Well, Devlin is on light therapy right now. That was the hardest part I think for him in getting back to sleep. It's not a comfortable machine to be on. So hopefully he will get the all clear to get off of it today. I have yet to take a nap today, but once we are back from doctor appointment number 2 today, I hope to come back and sleep for a bit.

As for the birth story:

I checked in at 7:30pm and had a suppository of prostglandin.
At 3am, I couldn't sleep so I called the nurse. She got me a rocking chair and I rocked for a little, contractions were getting worse.
My water broke in the rocking chair. I was stunned actually, but still only 1 cm dilated. What a weird sensation!

I got in bed, and they got worse really quick. I did that part all natural until I went from 3cm to 9cm dilated in an hour. It got so bad that I had the shakes. First we tried just robane to take the edge off, and instead, my labor got harder, so I ended up breaking down and getting the epidural. It was so intense and i had no time to recover from the previous contraction. It went into affect within 10 mins. WHAT A LIFE SAVER... I was so high...it was great. I was 10cm dilated at that point, but they decided to make me sleep til 9:30am because my blood pressure was thru the roof. At about 9:30am the nurse took me off the epidural.
at 10 I decided to try and push... so lethargicly, I pushed through noon and finally he arrived at about 12:20. pushing was not that bad, the epidural was no longer in affect. so I had a "natural" pushing ...my did that hurt. my one hip (always had problems with) hurt so bad I was balling...but the last push was in defiance... i was hungry, tired, and said out you go...and there he came. he's healthy and a breastfeeding champ already.
the post partum stuff though was unbearable. i wasn't fully numb to be suitured for a few internal tears (no external tears). and the firming of the uterus... i cried so much...it was more painful than the labor itself. It was really nice was i was put on ice.
Most of all besides thanking God, i thank my husband...he was amazing the whole time no matter how hard it was...he just jumped in and did everything i needed him to do...he has a hard time with needles and such and even when they did a lot of prodding on me and Devlin he was always there holding my hand. He also cut the cord! It was just amazing to watch.
So welcome Devlin Azrael Jarboe!!! And I'm welcoming some well deserved sleep...
Thank you ladies for all your prayers and support. you truly rock.

Welcome Devlin Azrael Jarboe!

Welcome baby!!!

Devlin was born on 11/21/08 at 12:20pm. He weighed 5lbs 15oz and is 20 in long. He and I are doing really well, just waiting to find out if we get to go home today.

Courtney

Induction will begin tonight

Hi!

Slight change in plans, I will be induced tonight due to tests not coming out so hot, so yay! He will most likely show himself tomorrow!!!

Please keep us all in your prayers!

Courtney

38 Weeks

Well, baby jarboe will be making his presence possibly on November 24th! I will be induced. I have an ultrasound appointment at 1:30pm today. We're really excited.

Courtney

37 Weeks

Well, got a bit of a surprise at the doctor's office today. I'm officially on bedrest for 2 weeks and most likely to be induced early. I tested positive for pre-eclampsia. So instead of thinking this week was an as-planned week at work with my goal list, I'm instead to lay in bed watching pointless t.v. I'll be doing some reading for sure and browsing the internet, but I know I'll be going insane quickly. I'm just one of those "have to be up to something" types who can't just lay around. It'll be a challenge, but who knows, it might be better than I expect. Anyways, baby looks okay, though I have two more doctor appointments this week. One is a show up when you're done with your (not to be said here) tests, and the other a follow up appointment with my doctor on Thursday.

Well, so I'm now off to contemplate my two week plan...and think of what we might need for baby's early arrival.

36 Weeks

Wow, time is really flying by. I know I keep saying that, but it is so true! On October 28th, my birthday, I spent 3 hours in Labor and Deliver. Nothing major, just an irritated uterus. Everything is fine :) On October 31st, we had a baby shower. Kat was so nice to host. It was a lot of fun. We got a cute play mat, the sleep sheep, a packnplay, some diapers, a toy, little book, some clothes, and diaper stuff. It was a lot of fun. We played the guess the candy bar diaper game and guess the baby food (taste testing). Wow, I'll tell you this much, mac n cheese for babies does not taste like mac n cheese. It tastes like nothing!!! seriously!!! I wouldn't even dare by that for my kids. Anyways, things are going really well and we're just tying up some loose ends. I have updated the baby picture link with a new belly picture and nursery pictures! Check it out. Also, I have my normal doc appointment tomorrow and an ultrasound on Tuesday. I'll be posting those ultrasound pictures as well, probably on Wednesday.

Have a great week!

Courtney

34 Weeks

Well, I'm at 34 weeks and things are going well. We finished the hospital class and toured the hospital again. I think we're ready! It's just a matter of waiting now. I will have an ultrasound at 36 weeks to measure him and estimate his weight. I have an appointment tomorrow as well. I'm looking forward to getting rid of all this extra weight and swelling...I know the emotional rollercoaster won't stop anytime soon, but soon enough for me. I'm also ready to finally meet him. You can only fantasize so much about what they look like or who they'll become.

Well, pretty busy, so I need to go, but just checking in with the a-okay report.

courtney

32 weeks

Well, only 8 weeks to go...can you believe it? We worked on the nursey again this weekend. We bought a new sewing machine and made some cradle sheets and bumper pads. We also bought a box of diapers, bath wash stuff, a diaper bag, and some sleepers. I think we're almost ready! We still need to attach the bumbers to the cradle and cross our fingers for a few other items still needed, but other than that, we're almost there!

We'll probably put together a "bag" for the hospital this next week or so and just have it all ready to go. I keep having dreams about it, but nothing chaotic, just more procedural which is nice. Tends to follow my normal brain processing...procedures.

Other than that, not much is going on. A lot of homework and housework.

Next up... my birthday ...in oh...22 days or so!

Courtney

31 weeks: 9 weeks to go!

Time is flying as always. And as it does, sleep gets even harder to achieve. Friday was my downfall for sure. I woke up so much and at one point decided to just stay up. All weekend I've felt sore and rather uncomfortable.

On Saturday we had a baby shower. My sisters put it on in Wisconsin. It was a lot of fun. We played "Hot Potato" with a wet diaper, a dice game, Baby Bingo, and they had really good snacks! We got a lot of baby clothes, wash cloths, wipes, and the baby monitoring system. I'm a little bummed because no one has yet to get us a box of diapers (much needed item) or even a diaper bag. Oh well. I suppose we'll just have to go and get that ourselves! That's fine. I'm grateful for what we've received!

We're also looking into possibly getting another ultrasound to find out his measurements. I just want to make sure that I don't end up having a watermelon like some of my relatives...they've had big babies...and frankly...that's not necessarily what I'd like...lol.

Courtney

30 Weeks on Monday

Hi Everyone,

I've slipped away from the blog for awhile. It's been rather busy here between work, school, homelife, etc.

So here are some updates. So far, he's doing quite well and I'm definitely getting bigger. It's becoming for of a challenge in terms of stairs, getting out of bed, etc. I've been also rather moody, well emotional. Little things cause great anxiety or upset me. For example, just a little thing at work tends to make me feel sad. I'm doing my best to not take things personally and just acknowledge that a lot of it is the hormonal rollercoaster. I'm hoping that this "period" will end soon so I can feel normal again. Other than that, I'm really thankful for those who I've leaned on to get through those times of irrationality.

Other than that bit of a downer, I'm really excited to have him here. I really want to start being a mom on the outside. The nursery is looking great thanks to Alex. I'll post pictures some time. I just want the chance to finally cradle him in my arms and say welcome. It's truly a blessing to have children and I hope others feel the same. I feel like I am a foreigner in this aspect sometimes. I take things very seriously in terms of what I eat and drink, while others see it as nothing serious. To me at least, it's not fair to the child. Yes, it's a burden on us, but do they choose to be dosed with unhealthy things? Not until they can pick up that bottle of Coke... but why not try to get away from that and not only get them on a good path, but also get yourself on a good path as well. Caffeine is bad for you anyways...a little doesn't hurt such as in chocolate or tea, but overloading on Mt. Dew and coffee just doesn't seem like a good idea to me.

I'm also happy about my Master's class. It's going really well so far. Sometimes it's hard to stay on track, but I'm learning a lot, though I tend to be forgetful at times. I'm presenting a paper next month at the Midwest MLA conference. It's hard to get credit for these since a lot of people don't consider literary research true research. Again, I feel like a foreigner in this case. Well, I do in a lot of cases, but I won't go there today. I feel like I'm striving for something that is completely different from everyone else which makes me so dissimilar that I can't really connect with anyone.

Again, perhaps it's just the hormones talking :)

Courtney

28 Weeks

Well, it's been an emotional roller coaster. I'm trying to keep my cool and not get all teary-eyed, but it's hard. I'm in the clear for pre-clampsia and in the clear for preterm labor. Yay. I just got out of the doc's office and things are just fine. I'm now 28 weeks. I'm just counting down the weeks now... It's not that far away. We have a baby shower on Sept. 27, that should be fun. Also, we already scheduled the baptism for Jan. 10th.

I've had a calling to go into religious studies/theology, but I have to put that off probably indefinitely. We can't afford me switching into something new or even just adding it on. I just would like to teach religion, but that's just not going to happen in the forseeable future.

Well, I'm off to do school work.

Courtney

Nursery!

So Alex and I went out and bought the traveler system-stroller/carseat combo today! It was $40 off!!! We saved a lot of money. Also, we bought the original crib set that I wanted...it's "T-is for train"!!!! Only $80 on clearance! We thought they were all gone, but there was one left!

We put the stroller and the baby swing together.. put up the valence and the cradle stuff... moved the chair and hope chest!!!! It looks so nice up there now.

We had a bit of a scare with me though... I had a case of edema, but it looks like everything is okay. I'm just on a medication for a week.

Other than that, I'm about to head to the third trimester!!!

I can't wait til our little boy arrives.

Courtney Jarboe

25/26 Weeks

Well, time is going quickly. Cripes... Wow... time just flies... we had our breastfeeding class today. It was really helpful. Lots of good information for us.

I'm getting anxious for the big day...though about 3 months away. There is some stress about baby showers...we have one on September 27th if anyone is interested in attending. My main concern is getting the main stuff and not having to buy it ourselves since I'm already losing weeks of pay as it is for staying home a little longer. I'm crossing my fingers that we get help in purchasing the carseat, stroller, and the breast pump. After speaking with the lactation presenter...I'm definitely not renting or buying a used one. So that's a bit pricy...But I hate to ask people to buy stuff for us...it's like...it's our choice to have a child, thus our responsibility. But whatever, either way we'll be just fine and find a way to manage.

Well, time to let my poor feet heal after two days worth of blisters... long story short... VERY PAINFUL.

Courtney

6 Months!

Well, I am now officially 6 months pregnant! Only 3 more to go!!! I'm so excited...we have narrowed down the names significantly...unfortunately, we'll keep you guessing at this point :) We had a great time at the Ren Fest. We watched Puke and Snot Jr. (without our famous Snot). And watched the Tortuga Twins. It was good. We are going again next weekend. I have my doc appointment tomorrow as well. That should be quick. I won't have my sugar drink test til 28 weeks...thank god... Other than that...hubby is helping clean and I am planning out our son's futurue lol...

Courtney

23 Weeks

One more week and I'll be 6 months pregnant....good grief time flies. We started our decisions on the nursery. We decided to do a travel theme. What could be cooler than maps and airplanes/trains/helicopters??? I'm hoping to find an old propellar at an antique store to put on the wall or wooden planes to hang from the ceiling. I would like to paint longitude and latitude lines on the walls...like an old world map, but my husband says no. Oh well!

I updated the name posting from a few days ago and included a column of names which are not in the running anymore (perhaps). We've had a few discussions on names recently and thought I would update it.

We're planning on attending the Renassiance Festival this weekend and perhaps for the next few weekends. I love the festival. We dress up and act like Renaissance folk and live without technology for awhile--well a day.

Baby Bump Picture

Baby's Heart beat!

Listen to our son's heart beat!

If you'd like to hear it, send me an email to barry.courtney@gmail.com and I'll send you the audio file.

Courtney Jarboe

The Boy Name Game

First Names
Theodore
Nikolai
Connor
Lucius
Christopher
Edward
Kevin
Dimitri
Aleksey
William
Alek
Dawson

Middle Names
Azrael (Archangel, Deliver of God's Laws)
Tyrael (Archangel)
Ezekial


Names most likely not in the running anymore:
Collyn
Jeremiah
Zacariah
Augustus
Elijah
Ely
Isaiah
Christian
Noah
Lukas
Francis (Alex's Grandfather)
Jean (Courtney's Grandfather)
Lloyd (Alex's Grandfather)
Lewis (Courtney's Family's name)

22 weeks

I figured I would make a small post while we're on vacation in Michigan. Things are going really well. I can feel him move quite a bit now. On last Saturday Michelle, Clare, and Jill hosted a baby shower for Alex's side of the family at 3 Pines. It was a lot of fun. There were three games. One, you couldn't say "baby" throughout the shower. If you did, someone would have to catch you saying it and take away one of your baby pins. Another game had to do with identifying baby food. That was hard!!! Then the other game had to do with baby names, where they had to guess if it was a name we would consider or not. We had a great time. Alex even participated :) We got some cute stuff too. One down and three to go.. We have another shower in August, September, and November!

At the outlet mall here in Flint, we got some cute overalls at Oshkosh. Really cute. We will be back on Saturday night. So I'll probably post on Sunday or Monday. Time is just flying by....I did finish one of my fall semester books this week, so that's good. Overall, it's been a great vacation.

Courtney

Our Baby Boy's Ultrasound Pictures

Baby Jarboe!

The ultrasound went great!! Baby Jarboe is measuring at 20 weeks and 2 days. All limbs are accounted for and wasn't that baby just a moving this morning! The ultrasound technician had a lot of fun too. I will be posting the ultrasound pictures at the end of the today. As you guessed, we do now know the sex of baby Jarboe! It's a boy!!! We are really excited!

Courtney Jarboe

20 or 21 weeks

So, I'm at my half way point. Yay! Things are going really well. We just got back from Memphis. It's was great. Melissa is now married :) It was such a great time, we were on the Tunica queen and it was a bit hot but once the sun went down it was good. She looked so beautiful!!!! I'm so glad we were able to make it.

Well, tomorrow is the big day...at 645am, we'll know what baby Jarboe is!!!!!

I'm guessing boy.

Courtney

Update

At the doctor's appointment I'm actually measuring 2o weeks and 2 days. The heartbeat is around 140. She thinks it will be a boy, but we'll find out next week!

Michelle Jarboe sent out a oh so cute baby shower card...it was super cute.

Time to go de-stress....

Courtney

19 weeks

Well, I'm a week away from being at my half way point. Here's some information from my calendar:

Your baby measures about 5.2 (13.2cm) to 6 inches (15.2cm) from crown to rump and weighs about 7 ounces (198g). Skin is developing and transparent, appearing red because blood vessels are visible through it. Creamy white protective coating, called vernix, begins to develop.

Things are going pretty well, though I tend to get mad quickly and unexpectedly or emotional/sobby. It's hormones. I also have a few stretch marks. Though not appealing, I'm okay with it. It's a sign that the baby is getting bigger which is a good sign. I'm still tired a lot...but I figure if my body wants sleep I better give in or I may pay later for it. I'm also getting anxious for the ultra sound. Only about a week away til we see the little bugger. I'm nervous, but keep thinking, everything will be okay. I just realized though, we're basically at 5 months and only 4 to go. Our nursery is no where to being ready, but I figure we won't do much til August which is just around the corner, yikes!!!!!

Well in other news, we bought a new stove yesterday. Our current stove, the front large burner never worked properly and would pop out unexpectedly. Well, we bought this KitchenAid stove at Best Buy (the floor model) for a lot cheaper. Originally $1100 and we bought it for $799. On the Kitchen Aid site, it goes for $1300. Anyways, they take the old one and deliver and install the new at no cost. Well, funny thing. Last night, we went to bake chicken nuggets and guess what happened? The oven door popped out of the socket on the left side. Alex tried to fix it, but we figured, it's going on Friday, who cares... So that's the end of that stove!!!!! I'm so excited though because the new stove is a smooth top. And the bottom coil in the oven is not exposed, so easy breezy cleaning!!!! We also decided to purchase a freezer. Our refrigerator's freezer is always packed and not big enough. We always wanted a freezer, but never really thought about buying new (we were looking for a beater). Anyways, it was a great decision because it also has a lock and key. That way, when little one is curious, he/she can't get into it. I'm excited to actually not have to go to the grocery store every week.

Although this stuff was expensive and a baby on the way, they were needed purchases. I'm going to make my own baby food, so to be able to freeze some of it would be awesome. Now, it's time to save up for the baby, baby furniture, etc. Our goal is to have the nursery ready to go by November, in case he/she comes early.

It's a little stressful in our Jarboe household, but we're managing pretty well I think. With the new appliances coming on Friday, our deck being replaced this week, and our trip to Memphis on Friday for the weekend, the doc appts, the MI trip the following week, I think a much needed NOTHING weekend will be needed!!!

Despite all the stress, I find myself listening to KTIS, the best radio station EVER. They keep reminding me that no matter what happens in our lives, God loves us for who we are. And our goal shouldn't be to worry about such petty things, but to work towards Christ's path to the true way of life of service and stewardship. Did I say I also love our church??? Fr. Mike rocks. I could go on forever, but I think it's time to get back to work.

Courtney Jarboe

Baby Quilt Update

Here's where I am at! I'll start one of the moons tomorrow!

Courtney Jarboe

The Name Game

So here is a list of names we've been thinking about...watch out...it's a long list and will most likely get longer.

GIRL

• Evelyn
• Allison
• Noel
• Sharon
• Charlotte
• Rebeccah
• Anastasia
• Nora
• Azra
• Nemeway
• Kogame
• Amorilles
• Arianna

BOY

• Azrael
• Tyrael
• Theodore
• Nicolai
• Connor
• Collyn
• Nicodeemus
• Augustus
• Elijah
• Ely
• Isaiah
• Emmanuel
• Christian
• Noah

Only 11 days!

In 11 days we will know if we're having a boy or girl!!!!!! I'm so excited!!! Time is flying and really only 5 months before baby Jarboe will be arriving!

Courtney Jarboe

18 weeks

Today I am 18 weeks pregnant. We are one week away from the usual doctor's appointment and two weeks away from the big ultrasound. In 14 days we will know if this baby is healthy and up to par. In addition, we'll also find out if it is a boy or a girl. I've had mixed feelings about what it is. Some days I think...it's a boy... others... it's a girl. Right now, all I'm praying for is a healthy and great ultrasound.

I've started to feel the baby moving around in there, which is really odd. Sometimes it is hard to tell if it is the baby or my stomach too. I've gotten my appetite back for the most part, except for Mexicana. I stay away from that. I'm hoping that I can keep it up and stay hydrated.

Oh, please vote on what you think the baby is as well. I'm curious to see what others are thinking.

Other than that, we had a great time at the fireworks in Eagan, MN. We went and saw Wall-e and Wanted as well at the theatre. We also met up with my sister on Saturday for dinner. As for the rest of the weekend, I spent it proudly on the couch.

We also having coming up: my best friend's wedding (not the movie) in Memphis! Family trip to Michigan the following week.


Courtney Jarboe

Minnesota Zoo and Dinner with Family

Today we went to the Minnesota Zoo with my family. First we had a BBQ at our house. At the zoo we saw a lot of animals including tigers, wolves, dolphins, bears, otters, and lots more! The new Grizzly exhibit was not cool, but it was okay. I finally met my sister's new boyfriend, who was really nice. My nieces, Brianna and Kaitlin were alsoe there. And so was my mom. There was lots of sun too. Aftwerwards, we went to Red Robin for dinner. AMAZING FOOD!!! I can't get over how much we ate there.

Courtney Jarboe

Anniversary Dinner Cruise

I took Alex on a dinner cruise for our anniversary. We rode the Taylors Falls Princess. It was an amazing trip. We saw the natural cross on the river which is how the St. Croix got its name. They had music, dinner, and chocolate covered cheese cake. The river was just beautiful and the weather was perfect. We also went to the Interstate Park. There, we saw the natural forming potholes. They were HUGE.

Courtney Jarboe

17 weeks!

Here's the latest belly pic. It's a bit hard to see, but it's good.

Courtney

Day 1 of baby quilt!

So I started cross-stitching a baby quilt this morning! The people on the metro-bus thought I was cooky--I'm sure. Oh well! I am interested to see how long it will take my to stitch the whole thing. I use to cross-stitch when I was younger and while I was working on a rose quilt, I got frustrated. I also started an anniversary quilt for Alex and I, but I also got frustrated on that one too. LOL. My goal is to not only complete the baby quilt before the baby is born, but also to complete the two other projects. The rose quilt I'll start working on once my mom finds it at her house. I started that one my...sophmore year in highschool I think. The anniversary quilt I started just before our first year anniversary as a couple. That one will be ongoing because of its theme. It's railroad tracks and along the tracks are various things that we've done/seen. I plan on working on that particular quilt while I am on maternity leave. Well those are my goals, we'll see if I am able to achieve them!!!! I'll post pictures here and there to show my project completion status. lol.

Courtney

Uh Oh

So apparently I did something to my ankle. Eh, it stinks. It is such a pain to walk right now and all I do is walk in Downtown MPLS. Oh well, not much choice but to take it easy. We are going to the MN zoo on Sunday so it better shape up.

I also have been rather cranky lately too because I'm having a hard time sleeping, though I sleep a lot.

It's just how it works I suppose..

Just glad I have such a wonderful husband... does stuff with out me even asking...and just so helpful and caring... mmmm... I love him.

16 weeks!

Hey everyone,

I've made it now to 16 weeks! Time is FLYING. We just got back from Missouri last night. We spent time with my grandparents and did some "touristy" stuff too. We went to Onodaga cave and to Maramec Spring Park. It was AWESOME. And one point, what is with parents who take their kid in a STROLLER into a cave with steep inclines, wet paths???? People are pathetic sometimes. Anyways, we had a great time. My grandma crocheted a beautiful afghan and a heirloom bib. We did see a few homes under water in Iowa and some of the flooding. That was pretty sad. I'll post pictures of our trip soon. Also, the day we get back, one of my good friends had her baby! A bit early (7 wks early), but she's doing great!

As for other things, da da dum! Our 1st year wedding anniversary is TODAY! 1 year and still going strong :) He got me these really cool sticky things that you put in your books. It has my name on them! I gave him a "tour" down memory lane through our journal as well as tickets to go on a paddle boat dinner. We also did a MADD Lib, which we started on our honeymoon a year ago. Just kids :)

Anywhoot, now we're off to wait. My next appointment is July 14th and July 22nd. On the 22nd, we will find out if we're having a boy or a girl. That should be super exciting.

Courtney

15 Weeks

Hello Everyone,

I'm 15 wks pregnant today! Things are going extremely well. We listened to the heartbeat on Saturday...it's just amazing. We've got a lot going on lately. Alex raised the bed so it's easier to get in and out of and we folded almost all the laundry (finally). I shampooed the carpets, cleaned the kitchen, and we bathed the cats.

We also made a baby registry at BabiesRUs. If you're interested in giving a gift, please use this registry. We also ask that you do not purchase pacifiers or baby bottles. We have our reasons for not using these products and ask that you support our decision. Lately, there has been a lot of research on the pacifier and we are choosing to take on a different parenting plan. Also, I plan on breastfeeding for as long as possible, so we are opting to stay away from the bottle. As that is the case, there are special bottles made for breastfeeding (say the babe's at a babysitter or I'm at work). These bottles we will purchase because they are something we need to really look at before deciding. We really appreciate your support in our parenting plan and hope that we'll be able to share our bundle of joy with you come December!

This Thursday we're heading to Rolla, MO to visit my grandparents and hopefully we'll make it through Iowa. The roads are looking so good right now. On top of that, I have a doctor's appointment today and we've got plans to go to the MN Zoo with my sister and her kids in a few weeks.

We are also going to Memphis, TN to see one of my best friends get married! I'm so excited and can't wait to see her walk down the aisle. I just can't wait...

This summer is just full of fun stuff!!!!

Courtney Jarboe

14 Weeks

Where does the time go by??? Seriously??? Well, I'm at 14 weeks and moving right along. We've been listening to the heartbeat at home which is really cool. Just makes it feel more real, well, at least until I can start feeling it move around. That won't be for another 2-4 weeks. I am anxious for my appointment on the 19th. I found out I'm RH negative so that can be a problem, but easily fixable. Just stinks for the kid who will have to get a surprising shot once it reaches the light. How about that for a homecoming?

If you are reading this though, I have a prayer request for a group of ladies: Sharon, Nichole, Dawn, MJ, and Ann. They are amazing ladies and are also pregnant. If you could pray for a healthy pregnancy for them, I'd appreciate it!

Courtney

Boredom!!!

Okay, I was bored...well no... I was not patient enough... I ended up starting a registry with Babies R Us... we also plan to have one at Target too...

Courtney Jarboe

13 Weeks

Time is flying by like always. Here is a much wanted picture by everyone. You can see a little bump, but not much yet. My hair and face looks horrid!!! That's what happens with humidity and the lack of caring... lol. That's what happens I guess. But I'll be more on top of things once we know what the baby is boy/girl so I can start sewing!

I am excited about our one year anniversary trip. We are going to go to Rolla, Missouri to vacation and visit my grandparents. We would like to see them while they are still healthy and able to have visitors. I hope to take Alex on a tour of the old family homes that our family owned. Also, I'd like to go to Silver Dollar City and Merimack Springs.

We are taking a trip to Chicago this Friday for a friend's bridal shower! I'm so excited to see her. She was in my wedding and unfortunately we'll be unable to make the wedding. At least I'll get to see her though! Can't wait.

For now, I've been too tired to care about stuff!

Courtney Jarboe

12 Weeks

12 weeks already? Time has been flying lately. We started moving the office into the basement and the cradle is up in the ol' office. We still have a lot to do, but we also have a lot of time. I'm starting to wonder when I'll actually get to feel the "flutters" and get a "belly." It won't be long now though, probably another 4 weeks before that happens. Other than that, no big news here. Just trying to stay healthy and stay sane. Pregnancy can do a number on your emotions.

Courtney Jarboe

Cradle!!!

We bought a cradle today!!! It's gorgeous! And what a deal! Only $60!!! I've found similar ones online for $300!!!

Courtney Jarboe

11 weeks!

I had my 11 wk appointment on Monday! Everything was great! Alex got to hear the heartbeat for the first time. The baby's heart was beating at 160bpm. I'm also measuring just about a little over 11wks and all my labs came back normal. It's really exciting to know this is really happening. I can't wait til the baby is a little older so we can find out what it is. I haven't been sick at all. More so just hungry all the time and drinking like a horse. My doppler should be here today so I'll have to post the heartbeat here if possible.

Thank God for little miracles :)

Courtney Jarboe

10 Weeks

I'm so excited! Today I had a last minute doctor's appointment. I was just a nervous wreck really. I didn't know what I was suppose to be feeling at this point or what I shouldn't be feeling. So my doctor let me come in today to just chat. I love her. She is amazing. I wouldn't trade Dr. O'Neil for any other doctor. Anyways, she asked, "You know, you're about 10 wks, we could probably hear the heartbeat, you want to try?" Of course, my eyes just lit up like fireworks and said..."yes!!!" So after a few moments, she said she thought she heard it, but kept losing it. I got nervous, but she said, "it keeps moving around!" Then, after another moment, there it was...the heartbeat....WOW. I was just completely speechless. It was the most beautiful sound I have ever heard. I smiled and thanked her so much for hearing me out and comforting my worries. Then she had to run, because she's on call tonight. That's okay, I got to hear our baby's heartbeat and that was enough to make my day. I have another appointment next Monday for my first "OB" appointment. So I'll get to hear baby's heartbeat again. Oh, what a miracle. Praise God!

Courtney

9 Weeks Pregnant

Wow, time flies. I take a look at a calendar and "poof!"

Today is my last day of my Master's Class...YAY!!! I am not done though. I have a huge paper to write. HUGE. As soon as I get that done, I'll be done until September 3rd. Sort of- I have a conference paper to polish up as well.

Anyways, as far as the pregnancy goes, I'm doing well. Mostly been crabby, super crabby the past couple of days. I'm pretty sure it's just I can't sleep and eat what I want. Why can't I?!?! Aren't I a princess?! Not really... Puking vs. hunger...which is better? hunger, definitely hunger.

We got to grill out yesterday. Brats...yum! I'm glad that the weather is finally getting nice. 80 today supposedly, but rain. I really don't mind the rain. Thunderstorms are one of my favorite things God created. I love the crackle and the flash.

In other news, it looks like "we" decided to find out what the sex of the baby is. We won't be able to find out for probably a few more weeks, but that should be cool. Once we know for sure that the baby is doing well, I plan on shopping. Yes...shopping...or getting a gift registry up in the summer sometime... I want to shop though...what better is there than debt, right? Don't worry, I probably will browse more than shop. That's usually how it goes.

We let the cats back into the bedroom two nights ago. I definitely missed them. They love to cuddle and I think they are now happy to have more access. I could lay on the couch with Sonny for hours...Bella is cute too though. Only if I could bring them to work. :)

Well, back to work I go.

Courtney

May 1st-2nd

So we went to La Crosse on Friday. It rained so hard! We went because the English Club and Honor Society hosted the annual social at Myrick Park. It was a surprise to many! I was so happy to see Sharon, Dick, Gappa, Virginia, David, Adam, Megan, Jamie, Ryan, the whole crew. I'm so glad that the groups are holding up. Though it rained it was great. I also learned how to play "Catch Phrase." That was soo much fun! I think what was the greatest, was seeing my Godmother, Mary again. I also got to hold Kari's baby! She was born on April 30th! She was so cute! I also got to see all of Mary's Grand-kids. They have gotten so big. I feel old!

As for the pregnancy, I'm doing alright. I'd wish our doctor would let us have another ultrasound. I would like to be "reassured." My appointment is on May 19th... not too far out. I wish it would come sooner. I bought a fetal heart doppler today, but I couldn't really tell what was what. I just want to know that the baby is okay. So I think I'll be a sucker for gadgets...

Oh well!

Courtney

7 Weeks 5 Days

So this pregnancy is going pretty well, except the fact that I fear I'm becoming a vegetarian. Of course, no offense to veggie lovers, but I love meat. Anyways, I can't stand meat right now. Just the thought of Chicken just makes me sick. So I've been forced to really eat just pasta and cheese. I was able to eat an Arby's roast beef today, but that was more out of you have to eat than by choice. The morning sickness isn't that bad as much as I complain. It's more about the fact that I like food, yet right now I can't stand it. I also have been sleeping so much. I could sleep for hours and be perky. If I don't get that extra nap of an hour or two, I get pretty cranky. I feel bad for Alex because it seems like all I do is sleep-except at night...I just can't get comfortable. Anyways, I guess all these symptoms are a good sign, so I'm glad.

Courtney

The Altar and the Door

Lindsey and I went to a Casting Crowns concert on April 26th. It was amazing. I think they brought up one great point about Christians in general. They asked, who are you? Are you the person near the Altar or are you the person beyond the door? Their point about the "Christian Mask" is so interesting and so true. At church, we listen to a priest/preachor/pastor, telling us what's right and wrong, what we need to do. Everyone is like "Heck yah!" but as soon as they leave the church and go beyond the door, they are different. They go back to their lives as usual until the next Church event or service. Not everyone is like this, but I'd say a majority are. How many times have we planned to pray with eachother and it lasts for a few days and then is nothing but a forgotten practice? Or donations, how many times do we say, we'll donate, yet then give an excuse because of finances. Even more so, what about sticking by Christian values? When do we really stick by them? When others are looking? Or all the time, even unseen? And how many times do we take on donations/missions and only consider them missions? Aren't they so much more than that?

These are just a few thoughts. In no way am I perfect. I've done my best and continue to try my best to follow a better path in God and Christ.

I pray that we are able to instill a faithfilled life for our coming child. That they are able to see and enjoy God's presence in his/her life. And most importantly, they do something with that faith.

~Courtney~

The Last Lecture

I just got finished watching, Randy Pausch's "Last Lecture." I just was left speechless and with tears not out of pity, but out of amazement. This man, dying from cancer is not moping around about how his last days on Earth, but instead sharing his life's experiences with his students and most of all the world. I just couldn't believe how moving the speech was. He provides points that we should all consider in our daily lives.

Baby Jarboe

Just a few weeks ago, we found out that we are expecting our first child. I'm really excited. Last week we had the first ultrasound and saw the heartbeat. I couldn't believe it. We are truly blessed to have the ability to have a child and I thank God every day for that. I continue to pray that God will let us keep this baby and that he/she will grow, be heatlhy, and stay strong.

So far I have had little morning sickness. I mostly have other pregnancy symptoms. I sleep a lot!

My next doctor's appointment is on May 19th. She's an amazing doctor and I trust her fully.

For right now we are taking it a day at a time and continue to pray to God.

Courtney Jarboe

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