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