The Marroquin Sun

Logos 4 Mac - Bible Software Program

2010-09-17T10:34:00.002-05:00

Ok, now I know that this is usually a family blog, but I have to share that I've been using the Logos 4 Bible Program for Mac since the biginning of this year and it has totally changed the way I study and prepare sermons. Sometimes I feel like I'm cheating because of all the resources that are available at my fingertips. It's not just for a pastor, but can be used for personal study. It really is one of the best, if not the best, program out there.

Logos Bible Software is giving away thousands of dollars of prizes to celebrate the launch of Logos Bible Software 4 Mac. More than 100 people will win! They’re also having a special limited-time sale on their Mac and PC base packages and upgrades. Check it out!Check it out here: www.logos.com/mac

Wow!

2010-09-14T16:49:00.002-05:00

How sad is it that it's been a year since I posted! Soooo much has happened!
Lillianna had her 1st birthday and is now almost 18 months old. She is crazy! She jabbers all the time and tries all the new real words she can. Of course she is walking and running and climbing on everything!
Annaliese just had her 3rd birthday. She is still a clown! She is trying to learn her letters but has a very short attention. She also wants to sound out the letters instead of say the letter name like her sister. Oh well, we'll get there!.
Aubrianna is 4 1/2. She is a sponge. She's working on her reading skills. She can sound out the letters so now we are just working on putting them together to make a word.
We are expecting our first little boy on November 30th. He is measuring big so we may be having a Thanksgiving baby! We are so excited to add him to our family!

Dedicating Lilli

2009-08-30T07:07:00.001-05:00

Today we dedicate Lilli to God and His will. God blessed us with this precious gift and now we take the step to give her back to Him.
Lord she is yours. Use her for Your will and purpose! Establish a firm foundation in her and keep her close to your heart.

Annaliese is 2 years old!!

2009-08-29T06:53:00.003-05:00

Two years ago today we invited our second baby into the world. When the baby came out no one said what it was. I looked down and said "It's a girl!" And the biggest smile spread across my face. I was so happy! I knew that having two small children was going to be a challenge but I was up for it! It took us two days to decide on her name and then we announced: Annaliese Hope. Hope after Mommy but also because she brought so much hope to this world! Hope for a brighter tomorrow!!
Annaliese has become the family clown. Seriously, if you sat in a room for 10 minutes with her she is sure to have you laughing. She is also very vocal. She will let you know how she feels about something!
We are so blessed to have her in our home and are excited about the future God has for her.

Annaliese: 2 years

2009-08-18T15:17:00.003-05:00

We went a little early for Annaliese's 2 year appointment because we had to get school papers for Aubrianna anyways! Here are her stats:

Weight: 26.2 (45%)
Height: 32 3/4 (24%)
Head: 19 3/4 (97%)

I know the head size is shocking to you all!! I was a little suprised with the height because she doesn't seem short at all to me. Maybe it was off, I'll have to measure her myself today! The NP said she looks great. She is doing everything and more that she needs to developmentally. She talked up a storm but anyone who has met her knows that most of it is in her own language.

Lillianna: 4 Months

2009-07-27T14:53:00.000-05:00

I took Lilli for her 4 month check up. Below are her stats:
Weight: 14lbs 12oz (75%)
Length: 25in (75%)
Head Circ: 16 1/2 in (75%)
The nurse said she is consistent. She then asked how many hours of night sleeping? 10-12 hours. How many naps? 2-3. How many hours? 2-3. How many poops a day? 2-3. She said "wow, she really is consistent!
Lillianna is such a good, easy-going, happy baby. The doctor asked if she was rolling over and I said no, and she really isn't interested in trying. He said that is the only problem with easy-going babies, they are content in whatever position you put them in.
He also told me not to tell people that my baby has been sleeping 10-12 solid hours thru the night since about 12 weeks. But I'm telling everyone, Lilli sleeps all night!!!!

Preacher Man

2009-07-23T12:51:00.003-05:00

Ed had the wonderful opportunity to bring a word from God to our church this past Sunday. A few family members have asked for a link. Here it is:
Eduardo Marroquin

Coloring in the lines

2009-07-11T21:24:00.004-05:00

Aubrianna used to take great care in coloring and staying in the lines. After being around more kids and seeing them color she tries to color fast and just scribbles. Lately I have been telling her that you are supposed to stay in the lines. This is a picture she colored yesterday and the conversation that we had about it.

When I first saw the picture the sun was not colored.
Me: Wow Aubrianna, you did a good job staying in the lines.
Aubrianna: Thank you momma!
Me: Why didn't you color the sun?
Aubrianna: Oh!

She then found the nearest crayon and quickly colored the sun.

Me: Why didn't you stay in the lines one the sun?
Aubrianna: (shrugs shoulders)
Me: You are supposed to stay inside the lines.
Aubrianna: Right here it says "don't stay in the lines!" (Pointing to the web address at the bottom of the page.)

The big girls

2009-06-19T15:17:00.001-05:00

Aubrianna the photographer

2009-06-19T15:13:00.003-05:00

Aubrianna always plays with the cameras on our iPhones and loves taking pictures. Today while downloading pictures from my camera I found these that she took while she was "playing a game on the computer."

Uh Oh

2009-06-10T15:41:00.000-05:00

Apparently Elmo got into some trouble today. After I put the girls to bed I was cleaning up and found him like this.

The Morton Arboretum

2009-06-10T15:35:00.000-05:00

We made our first trip out to the Morton Arboretum with some friends from work and their kids today. The girls had a blast.

Catching tadpoles

Playing with Annie.

More tadpole catching.

Again, anything with water and they are in heaven.

Watering the flowers.

Sliding together.

Swimming

2009-06-09T15:32:00.000-05:00

I bought a pass to the city pool in hopes that it will get us out of the house this summer. None of us girls tolerate heat very well so anything with water is great for us. The first day we went it was on the cooler side so the outdoor pool was closed but we still swam indoors.

New Camera

2009-06-08T15:22:00.000-05:00

When Aubrianna was born we invested in a very nice digital SLR camera to capture our memories. Over the years as my load has grown (added 2 more children) I've found it hard to carry the large camera and often talked about getting a smaller one. As most of you know Ed is on a missions trip in the Philippines si we decided I couldn't be without a camera for two weeks so we should just get one. Target happened to have one on sale so I scooped it up! These are my test shots. Hopefully now that I can more easily carry it I will take more pictures.

Traffic Jam

2009-05-22T15:19:00.002-05:00

The kids all got outside with their "cars today and there was quite the traffic jam. They all had fun.

Lillianna: 2 Months

2009-05-22T13:18:00.002-05:00

I can't believe Lillianna is already two months old. I took her for her checkup and here are her stats:

Weight: 12lbs 5oz (85%)
Length: 22.25 in (50%)
Head: 15.75 in (80%)

She is doing wonderfully. She holds her head up well and smiles a lot. She is often on the verge of laughter. Aubrianna and Annaliese are still loving having her around although they would much rather have a doggy right now (see other post).
(The picture was taken on Mothers Day)

We need a Doggy

2009-05-21T13:22:00.003-05:00

On the way to gymnastics I saw this lab running in the street. I could see he had a collar on so I stopped and called him. He came right to me and jumped in the car. I took him home and went to gymnastics. He was still there when we got home so I asked a friend what I should do. While waiting on her response Aubrianna and Annaliese fell in love (I have to admit I did too). As you can see from the pictures he was very tolerant and playful. All of them got licked to death at least once!
I know he was someones pet because he had a collar, was fixed and his nails were cut. I called animal control to come and see if he had a micro-chip. Well, when they got there they said they had to take him and my girls lost it. I told Aubrianna that he had a mommy who was looking for him and she said we could all be his mommy! Everyone cried as our little friend was taken away. Animal control said they would hold him for seven days and then he would be turned over to a rescue for adoption. If he doesn't get claimed we would love to adopt him.
We went in and took a nap. Annaliese woke up crying "doggie, doggie." So now everyday they both ask for a big dog. I guess we are on the lookout!!♦

REsting in the kitchen

Best buds!!

Riding the big dog!

Mother's Day

2009-05-10T22:16:00.000-05:00

Once again, I have to back track and blog a little. Mother's Day was wonderful. It gets better every year as there are more little ones to love on me! We went to church and had a great day with our church family. Then we went home, took a nap(sort of) and cooked out. Aubrianna and Annaliese were thrilled to help Ed prepare the food as well as clean up.

Afterwards, I got a beautiful pedicure from Aubrianna.

Mother's Day Revelation

2009-05-10T06:34:00.002-05:00

Conversation in regards to Mother's day

Ed: Amber, tomorrow I will be your slave. I will do whatever you want me to.
Amber: How about you clean the whole house, AND watch the kids!
Ed: I said I'd be your slave, not a miracle worker!!

Just goes to show that we do have THE hardest job in the world and we do miracles every day!!!!

Happy Mothers Day to all you Mommas!!!

Hospital Pictures

2009-05-06T12:27:00.004-05:00

I just realized that I never shared our hospital pictures here. These were all done by Bella Baby Photography at the hospital.

Learning about Easter

2009-04-08T11:31:00.002-05:00

This is a conversation that took place yesterday between myself and Aubrianna (3 years old)

Me: Do you know what happened on Easter?
A: What?
Me: Jesus died for us and on Easter He came back to life.
A:Who woke Him up?
Me: God
A: And now He's in my heart!
Me: That's right.

We went to the mall and saw the Easter bunny. Before leaving there was a break down over some confusion that Aubrianna thought she needed to wear her dress to see Easter(the Easter bunny). I was trying to explain that Easter is a day and recapping what happened on Easter. She decided that was fine and we could go without the dress.

Later:
Me: So what happened on Easter?
A: Jesus died, but Easter kissed him and Him came back to life and now He lives in my heart!
Me and Mimi(my mom): laughing uncontrollably!!!

Easter Bunny 2009

2009-04-07T21:52:00.000-05:00

1 week

2009-03-30T14:06:00.002-05:00

I took Lillianna in for her 1 week visit today. She weighed 7lbs 5 oz(35%) so almost back to her birthweight. She was 19 inches long (35%) and her head was 60%(I cannot remember the measurement and I don't have the booklet in front of me). The doctor said she looked great and we don't have to go back until 2 months unless we want to bring her in at 1 month for a quick check.

Today

2009-03-29T19:40:00.000-05:00

Pacifiers

2009-03-29T19:38:00.002-05:00

Neither Aubrianna or Annaliese took pacifiers for more than about two weeks when they were babies. They have both decided that they want them now though! Of course it is only for about five minutes while they run around the living room screaming and laughing.

First bath at home

2009-03-29T19:35:00.001-05:00

Annaliese and Lillianna

2009-03-29T19:31:00.001-05:00

When we got home with Lillianna, Annaliese finally decided to show her some attention. I think at the hospital there was too much new stuff to play on.

She even held her and did not want to let her go.

Going Home

2009-03-29T19:28:00.002-05:00

Getting ready to take out new baby home for the first time.
This is a newborn outfit that Mimi (Amber's mom) bought for the baby. It is gigantic on her, which I never thought we would have a problem with.

A gift from Aubrianna

2009-03-29T19:25:00.001-05:00

Aubrianna got this little bear in a Happy Meal and decided that baby sister had to have it. She brought it to her and left it with her for the night.

Another Daddy's Girl

2009-03-29T19:23:00.000-05:00

A Family of Five

2009-03-29T19:22:00.001-05:00

Aubrianna's nurse

2009-03-29T19:19:00.002-05:00

This is Dana. She was our nurse when I went in to have Aubrianna. Today she helped out our nurse who was a little busy.

She's here

2009-03-29T19:15:00.002-05:00

7 lbs 6 oz

Getting the once over.

"Thrilled" to be starting the process

2009-03-29T19:14:00.003-05:00

Getting ready to leave for the hospital.

2009-03-29T19:12:00.001-05:00

Lillianna's birth story

2009-03-26T21:02:00.002-05:00

We went in for the induction at 7:30am. They got my pitocin going at about 8am and I wasa 2cm dilated. At 8:50am I was 2-3cm, 25% and they broke my water. I started feeling the contractions a little more (not painful though) at about 10:40am so I had them check me. At 11am I was 7cm, 80%. I passed on the epidural because I didn't think it would be long.
At 11:15am they started to really hurt. I told them it was time. The nurse called the doctor and checked me. I was 9cm. I could feel my body start to push now. She told me to push a little and then stopped me. She ran in the hall and got the doctor. She came in and I pushed and felt her head come out. They didn't even get the bed broken down yet! They told me not to push because she had the cord around her neck two times. The doctor was trying to cut it off. I didn't push but apparently my body did because she tumbled out onto the bed (Thank God they didn't get it broken down)! So she was born at 11:49am. Only ~30min of hard labor. As soon as they put her on my belly I said she's so little. She was only 7lbs 6oz, 20in long. Almost a pound smaller than Aubrianna.
It went so fast and very hard and painful but only for a short time.

She has a name!

2009-03-24T13:23:00.002-05:00

Her name is Lillianna Grace. We are all doing wonderful. Lilliana is nursing well and sleeping well during the day!! Annaliese is not interested, she looks and then runs to climb on something else. Aubrianna is in love!!

2009-03-23T21:37:00.004-05:00

Amber was such a "Super Woman" today. I think I was more nervous than she was. We went into the hospital at about 7:30am this morning and started the meds for her induction. At about 11am she was very uncomfortable, but before then never even winced at her contractions! Forty-five minutes later she gave birth to our beautiful daughter without any meds. I don't know how she did it! The baby does not have a name yet as were are still between a couple names. Stay tuned! I'm so blessed and thank God for a healthy baby and healthy mama!
Baby Marroquin, Born March 23rd, 11:49am, 7lbs 6oz, 20in long.

Baby Marroquin just delievered and having vitals checked out by the nurses. Apgar Score 8 & 9, the highest out of our other two children.

Mom, Big Sister, Aubrianna, and Baby Marroquin. Aubrianna is such a "mother hen" and absolutly adores her new sister! Annaliese... not so much! :]

38 5/7 weeks

2009-03-20T19:09:00.000-05:00

I went for my final appointment today! Everything looked good. The doctor said I was 2cm and very soft so she didn't think I needed to do Cervidil. She said it may take a while to get things started but I'm hoping not!! We have been cleaning all day so hopefully something more will have happened by the time we go in Monday morning.

38 weeks 1 day

2009-03-16T17:25:00.002-05:00

Well I had a very disappointing appointment today with the doctor. No real change since last week except maybe a little softer! What a blow after a week of contractions and other possible signs that something was happening. I go back Friday so the Doctor can check again and see if I need to go in early for Cervidil.

37 weeks 1 day

2009-03-09T17:31:00.001-05:00

I just got home from my weekly doctors appointment. This past week I have had increased sweeling in my legs and feet so we were a little worried. Everything looks great though. My blood pressure was perfect. The baby's heart rate was 144. Even though the ultrasound showed the weight to be fine we decided to go ahead and schedule an induction for March 23 at 7:15am since my babies just keep getting bigger..
If this little one doesn't come out before then, she is being evicted!!!

Ultrasound

2009-03-06T18:22:00.002-06:00

We had our ultrasound. They said it is a girl so I am a little more confident that they are right. All the measurements were within two weeks of my due date so no changes there. They are estimating the weight to be 6 lbs now, so 8 lbs at my due date. I am 36 weeks and 5 days. With Annaliese at 35 weeks they estimated 6 lbs 12 oz I think. So maybe this baby will be a little smaller. We will see!

Annaliese is 18 months

2009-03-03T19:06:00.002-06:00

Annaliese went for her 18 month appointment today. She is growing great and exceeding all of her milestones. She only had to get one shot today and she didn't even cry. Aubrianna, on the other hand, was very upset that this was going to hurt her sister. Here are her stats:

Height: 32inches (60%)
Weight: 23lbs 13 oz (30%)
Head: 19 1/2 inches (>97%)

36 weeks

2009-03-03T18:59:00.002-06:00

Yesterday was my 36 week appointment. The Nurse Practitioner said my cervix was closed and the baby is high. I thought for sure the baby was a little lower than Aubrianna and Annaliese were but apparently not! Friday is our ultrasound to see how big the baby is and then we will go from there.

34 weeks 3 days

2009-02-18T16:32:00.002-06:00

I had my regular check-up today. Everything is still looking great. I gained a little more weight finally for a total of 10 lbs (baby is over 5 now). I am actually measuring behind now at 33.5. I think this baby is lower down which explains that. I will have an ultrasound at almost 37 weeks to check baby's size and then we will decide about going to term or not.
I washed all the baby cloths as well as the carseat yesterday. It felt good to finally get some of that out. Ed asked why I was doing it so early. My response was "you never know, we could have a baby in two weeks!" Wouldn't that be wild!!!

Home

2009-02-10T21:28:00.000-06:00

I just thought I would let everyone know that our girls got home late Sunday night/early Monday morning and are safe and sound. We missed them so much!!!

So Sad!

2009-02-06T11:24:00.002-06:00

Tonight we are sending our babies off to Ohio for the first time without us. Ed's parents are getting ready to move there so they are going to work on that. The girls will be going with them and spending time with them and also with my parents.
We aren't doing anything fun while they are gone. I actually have to work and sleep both days. That's part of why they are going.
So I'm sad and scared but I trust God! Take care of my babies!!!

32 weeks 1 day

2009-02-02T18:55:00.001-06:00

I had another appointment today. Everything looked great still. My blood pressure was fine. I didn't gain any weight again and I am still measuring 32 weeks. That's what I measured at my 30 week appointment but they say the baby probably just moved into a different position. Who are they kidding, this child moves into different positions constantly!! Maybe she is moving down though, which neither of the other two really did. Going into labor on my own would be a nice experience, although knowing when everything will happen is nice to. I guess we will see over the next few weeks. Two weeks till the next appointment.

30 week appointment

2009-01-21T12:18:00.002-06:00

I had my 30 week appointment today. Everything still looks good. BP was fine. The baby's heartbeat was 150 bpm. I didn't gain any weight so still at a total of 8 lbs. I am now measuring 32 cm so 2 weeks ahead. We will see where this takes us. If I start measuring 3 weeks ahead then we do another ultrasound for size.

30 Weeks

2009-01-18T11:17:00.003-06:00

I can't believe we're already at 30 weeks. Now I feel like there is so much to do to get ready.
Get out the baby gear and clean it all.
Wash the baby clothes and put away.
Buy needed items: new bottles(just a few since I will nurse again), swing, etc.
Clean the house!!!!!
And so much more . . .
The baby is close to 3lbs now and 15 1/2 inches. She's getting big. Aubrianna tells me daily that baby sister is going to come out soon. She's getting bigger!!

29 Weeks

2009-01-11T10:21:00.003-06:00

The baby is now about 3 lbs and 15 inches. I have been happy to no longer just feel kicks and jabs but to feel little baby parts (I can't tell which) moving across my hand when held on my belly. I can also push hard little bumps and the baby moves and/or changes positions and usually pushes back.
I also never heard anything from the doctor's office about my glucose test. No news is good news! I hope not to hear anything from them tomorrow either but I think I would have heard by now if it was high.

28 weeks 1 day

2009-01-05T19:31:00.003-06:00

This week the baby is about 2 1/4 pounds and is 14.8 inches long. I went for my three hour glucose test today. Hopefully I will pass that with no problems. Otherwise everything was good. Babys heartbeat was 154. I gained a little more weight this week for a total of 8 pounds.
We spent the first few days of the new year in Toledo and Sandusky. My whole family went to Kalahari water resort there. We had so much fun! All the kids had a blast. We didn't get any pictures though because we had our hands full the whole time. My dad took some pictures so when I get those I will try to post some.

Christmas Eve 2008

2008-12-24T16:10:00.001-06:00

These are from our church service on Christmas Eve.
Here is my 26 week belly picture. I don't take many of these!

This is us taking a picture of us. We were trying to take the picture of ourselves while the girls ran around our feet.

I know it looks like Aubrianna is strangling Annaliese but she is just trying to keep her in the picture.

This is Aubrianna's "pretty" smile.

1 hour glucose

2008-12-23T16:08:00.000-06:00

I got the call today that I failed my 1 hour glucose screening. That means that I need to take the three hour glucose tolerance test. I also had to take this with Annaliese and it was not fun! I go for it on January 5th. Hopefully it will be fine as it was last time.

26 week appointment

2008-12-22T11:40:00.002-06:00

I had my appointment today and the glucose screening. They only had to poke me once, yeah! Everything looked great. I am measuring 27 weeks and have gained a whole 4 lbs this entire pregnancy! The heartbeat was 160 bpm. Blood pressure looked fine. One more week down!

26 Weeks

2008-12-14T19:58:00.004-06:00

They are flying by! With Christmas this week and New Years next week, I will be 30 weeks before I can catch my breath!!
The baby reaches 13 3/4 inches this week and weighs about 2 1/4 lbs. She is starting to layer on a little fat now and is able to open her eyes.
I go tomorrow for my appointment and glucose screening. I will post anything new.

25 weeks

2008-12-14T19:58:00.002-06:00

We have made it to 25 weeks. As of last week the baby is considered viable with intensive care, which is something I happen to know a lot about and is not a road I want to travel. That is always a wonderful milestone to reach. She kicks up a storm lately but never enough to keep me awake.
The baby weighs about 1 1/2 pounds and is 13 1/2 inches long. I have definitely started showing over the last few weeks. It's about time right! At my last appointment at 22 weeks I was already starting to measure one week ahead. This was why Annaliese was induced a few days early. I go next Monday for my 26 week appointment and my glucose screening and then its every two weeks until 36 weeks.

Aubrianna's 3rd Birthday

2008-12-14T19:43:00.006-06:00

Cousin Isaac
Mimi gave her this Tinkerbell Precious Moments. She loved tinkerbell right now so this was perfect.

Sorry the pictures are out of order. I forgot to upload them backwards. So here is Aubrianna looking so excited as she opens a gift a find a my little pony inside.

I smell trouble!!

Some of the neighbors eating and playing games.

The Setting: My Little Pony!

Doctor's visits

2008-12-05T19:15:00.003-06:00

We had doctors appointments for both of the girls today. They did wonderful!

Annaliese: 15 months

Weight: 22 lbs 3 oz (40%)

Height: 30 3/4 in (55%)

Head: 19 1/4 in (>97%)

She did great. She is meeting all of her developmental milestones, definitely ahead on the physical ones. She had to get two shots a a finger prick which was quite traumatic this time! Her finger wouldn't stop bleeding and she hated that the nurse was holding it tight to try to stop it.

Aubrianna: 3 years

Weight: 30.8 lbs (50%)

Height: 36 1/4 in (50%)

She was so good. She followed all of the directions that were given to her like bending over so they could check her spine. She let them listen and look and take her blood pressure, weight and height with no problem. She is getting so big and is definitely a pre-schooler.

Peru Follow-up

2008-11-27T19:12:00.002-06:00

Ed returned safely from Peru on Thanksgiving day. I will try my best to have him post some pictures and write about his trip. Overall it sounded good. They did some ministry with a group of deaf children, who are usually left on their own, dug some fresh water wells in the amazon, and ministered to some groupd of children as well as fed them so that they would not have to prostitute for that day. Some sad stories but the group that went, All for Him Ministries has a heart to make a difference.

Peru: Friday

2008-11-22T20:28:00.002-06:00

Ed made it to Peru safely, got a couple of hours of sleep, and then went out to minister. They ministered to a group of deaf children there. They said they had a lot of fun with the kids but that their eyes did not look like those of children, you could tell they had been thru a lot. They played with them and recorded some of their stories. At the end the Pastor gave each of the children $6 and they all began to weep. Some of them didn't believe that it was real money!
That night they ministered at a church. He said it was great to see the youth worship. Theyall had their eyes closed and their hands raised, something many churches have gotten away from. Some even received the Holy Spirit, which hasn't happened there before.
Tonight Ed is speaking to a youth group there. I will try to post more when I hear from him.

Peru

2008-11-20T14:30:00.003-06:00

Well, I shipped Ed off to Peru this morning. He went with a missions team from our church to minister and do some video footage for them. We were sad to see him leave this morning but know that it is where God wanted him to go. He will return on Thanksgiving day.
So I am a single, pregnant mom this week! It's gonna be a long one but we will survive. There is lots to do getting ready for family to visit for Thanksgiving and I still have to work.
Please pray for Ed and the team for safe travels this next week and a safe return next Thursday to his girls!!!

Our big ultrasound!

2008-11-06T17:22:00.002-06:00

Yes what you see above in the middle is the money shot. We decided at the last minute to find out. And it is a GIRL!

The first picture is the face. The third is the heart.

Below are all profile shots with our baby girl trying to suck her thumb.

19 weeks 2 days

2008-11-04T11:13:00.003-06:00

This week the baby reaches about 6 inches and weighes 7-8 ounces. It is about the size of an heirloom tomato. This week baby is spending time developing its senses.
I started to feel movement about two weeks ago but nothing consistent yet. Every once in a while the baby just reminds me that it is there.

Election Day

2008-11-04T11:10:00.002-06:00

What a monumental day in our history. We will be voting in either what could be the oldest US president or the first Black US President. I hope everyone goes out and casts their vote. If you don't vote, you can't complain! I was out this morning with both kids in tow (well I guess all three in tow). Thank God the lines were short. I will be praying and we will see what happens.

18 weeks 1 day

2008-10-27T16:05:00.001-05:00

I had another appointment today. Everything looked great. I still haven't gained any weight but that is fine with me. The baby's heartbeat was 156 so the nurse sayd it is another girl. We shall see! Aubrianna says otherwise.
I go next Thursday for my ultrasound. It will be nice to see the baby again.

17 weeks 1 day

2008-10-21T16:18:00.002-05:00

We are still trucking along here. Everyone is doing well.
Aubrianna's 3rd birthday is in a few weeks. We haven't decided what to do for it yet!
Annaliese is trying to talk more and more.
The baby is growing. It is now the size of an open hand and weighs 3.5 ounces. We go for the big ultrasound in a few weeks but we don't plan on finding out the gender again. We are just thrilled that everything is moving along.

14 week Ultrasound

2008-10-02T16:15:00.002-05:00

These are the pictures from my 14 week ultrasound. They are a little hard to see. Both left pictures show the baby's profile. The top one also has the heart rate on it. It was 146 that day. The top right is a back view. You can see an outline of the head on the right of it. The bottom right is the same view but you can see the spine.

14 week OB appointment

2008-10-02T11:34:00.002-05:00

I went yesterday for my 2nd OB appointment. Everything looked great. Baby's heartbeat was 150. I told the doctor how I've been a lot sicker the past two weeks and I never really got sick with the other two. She wanted me to have an ultrasound today to make sure there weren't two!!!
I went for that this morning. Only one baby! Today the heartbeat was 146. All the measurements matched up with my dates so the due date is 03-29-09. Seems so far away but it is already going by fast.

14 weeks

2008-09-28T05:42:00.003-05:00

I can't believe how fast this pregnancy is going already. I have officially reached the second trimester today and I go back on Wednesday for my second OB appointment. Not too much happens at theses but I get to hear the baby's heartbeat which is always a little reassuring, especially right now, when I can't feel movement.

Johansen's Pumpkin Farm

2008-09-20T15:24:00.007-05:00

We needed to get out on a Saturday afternoon so we headed down the street to the pumpkin farm. I know its a little early but they have a lot of theings for the kids to climb and play on, a train, hayrides, animals, etc.
On the hayride
Riding with Daddy

Annaliese loved looking a all the animals and got mad at them if they weren't close enough for her to touch.
She even fed them, which Aubrianna wanted nothing to do with.

"I think he left something else on my hand."

Going down the big slide with Daddy.

At the jailhouse jumper

Aubrianna loved this slide. She went up and down this slide like a hundred times.

even head first

Holding the chickens . . . don't squeeze him!!!

Looking pretty!

Aubrianna's 1st Haircut

2008-09-13T15:18:00.002-05:00

Everytime we say we need to get our haircut Aubrianna says, "I need get my hair cut too!" Today we finally gave in and took her to get it trimmed and evened out a little. They also curved it around her face a little.
She was such a big girl. She didn't cry or anything and just sat there and let the lady wet it, cut it, and blow dry it. I was shocked.
Now she says "my hair so pretty!"

Annaliese's 1st Birthday Party

2008-08-31T12:07:00.005-05:00

All our family and friends
The pool
Annaliese and Issac playing in the baby pool
It all started so inocently
. . . then she got a taste

. . . and it was all down hill from there.

Want a taste mama?

The Birsthday Princess!

Aubrianna swam for two days straight.

The Bolingbrook Fair

2008-08-16T11:59:00.003-05:00

Bolingbrook had a end of summer fair. We went and walked around and then Aubrianna saw the rides. She wanted to go on all of them and wasn't afraid of any of them.
The Dragon coaster
Racecars
I thought for sure she would cry on this one because it was fast and whipped her around the ends. She still had a smile on her face though.

5 Wonderful Years

2008-07-12T18:02:00.002-05:00

Five years ago today I walked down the aisle and was joined by God to the most wonderful man in the world. We had already been together for seven years, so marriage was the next natural step to complete things. God ordained so many things to lead us to that point and despite what others thought, we were lasting and forever! I'll never forget how I felt thinking how lucky I was (and still am) to have this man. How incredible it would be to spend the rest of my life with him! Five years later, I still feel that way. Our life is not exactly how we imangined, but it is good. Had we not experience all that we have, we wouldn't be who we are today. We have two beautiful little girls that mean the world to us. How did we ever live without them? And I still have those same feelings about my man and I still want to spend forever with him.
Ed, I love you so much and I really can't wait to see what God has for us next. To five more years, then five more, then five more, then . . .

4th of July

2008-07-06T11:51:00.002-05:00

Aubrianna's favorite things right now are horsies!
Watching the fireworks!

Ed's big day

2008-07-06T06:09:00.002-05:00

About four months ago Ed and I were asked to join a group of couples in a mentoring group with our pastor. He has a vision to open one new campus every year for about ten years to grow God's kingdom. He chose these couples so that He and his wife coulld pour their hearts into us and potentially we could become campus pastors. About two months ago we were all informed that today we would all be given 15 minutes to bring a sermon before the church. Since that moment Ed has been searching and praying and sweating. Today was the big day. He stood before the congregation and, like an old pro, spoke what God had given him. I was so proud to be sitting there on that front row watching my husband. God really used him to heal some hurts and open some eyes. Immediately after service there was a line of people waiting to talk to him. Not many people got to see the nervousness and the preparation that went into this, but I did. We are honored that God chose to use us and also a little shocked. God, Your will be done!!!

I will see if Ed can attach the audio of the sermon as the video only was made from the middle of his message (go figure that the media directors message wouldn't get recorded).

Annaliese: 9 months

2008-05-29T08:56:00.004-05:00

I can't believe it either but it's true, Annaliese is already 9 months old. She is a bundle of energy. She stand alone for short periods and crawls faster than I can! Here are her stats from her 9 month visit:

Weight: 18lbs 5oz (45%)

Height: 27 1/4 in (50%)

Head: 18 1/4 in (97%)

She has slowed down a little on her growing but Aubrianna did the same thing, and we all know she ended up being extremely healthy, but petite! The doctor says as long as her weight and length stay proportioned it is fine. Her head is way up there, also just like Aubrianna's.

Gatlinburg

2008-05-18T11:20:00.002-05:00

We were able to go to Gatlinburg, TN and see the Fricks family (Amber's mom's family) as part of our vacation this year. We all rented a big cabin in the mountains and had a great time. It was a little crazy because there were seven kids four and under but we all got a little sleep and enjoyed seeing each other.

2008-05-17T11:30:00.000-05:00

To me this spells trouble!

(Aubrianna, Carson & Christian)

PRetty girl
We went to the Ripley's believe it or not aquarium with everyone. It is a beautiful one. If you are ever in Gatlinburg you have to go there.
Carson

Mema showing Aubrianna the fish
Our family at the aquarium
Watching the fish get fed.
The feeder or the food?

Aubrianna and Mommy looking up at the sharks.

Teeth!

Annaliese looking at the sharks
Touching the horseshoe crab.
Isaac lookig at the rocks

I'm an underwater adventurer

2008-05-16T11:40:00.000-05:00

Annaliese has a favorite new food. While we were at the dinner show she sat quietly almost the whole time eating her corn on the cob.

The dinner show
Bath time

Annaliese loved these guys. She was squeezing their hands and would not let go.
Aubrianna getting her face painted for the first time.

2008-05-15T11:50:00.000-05:00

On the chairlift. I have to admit I was a little afraid to take the girls on this. I strapped Annaliese on with the baby bjorn and Aubrianna was held tight by Daddy. They both loved it. It was beautiful up there and very relaxing to sit for a little while.
View from the top.
Our little model showing us the dinosaur.

Exhausted from the long day!

Our cabin with the family.

New Talent

2008-05-06T15:40:00.001-05:00

Annaliese has decided, all of a sudden, that she can stand. She pulls up on anything and everything. She hasn't figured out how to sit back down yet but she is working on it.

2008-04-29T20:48:00.004-05:00

Ok, I don't normally "blog" or journal anything, but there are so many things my girls are doing that just crack me up! I thought I would share one such incident with you all.

Not to get too graphic or anything, but as most parents with small children know, you don't really have much time to yourself. That includes when you have to use the restroom and your by yourself. So, I went to the restroom and left the door open so I could keep an eye on my girls. Aubrianna walked in and wanted to keep me company. She was talking and talking away and then stopped... looked at me, tilted her head, and gave me a look of concern. She then said, "Is wee hod?" (translation="Is it really hard, are you having difficulty?"). I nodded my head yes and she followed up by offering her hand to me and said,"hold nannas hand, is ok da-ee." I couldn't help but crack up! After I finished, she clapped her hands and said "Yaeh, da-ee! A-Pop-corn?" She was asking me if I wanted her to make me popcorn as that is her reward for using the restroom. Where do kids come up with this stuff? - Ed

Yeah

2008-04-28T13:04:00.001-05:00

I'm finally adding some pictures!!! I have a lot to put up and some are older so make sure you look back, even past some you have already seen. I'm trying to put them in order by date! Enjoy!

Sorry!

2008-04-18T10:53:00.002-05:00

OK. So I've been very bad about blogging lately. I am a busy women, cut me some slack. I will get some pictures up very soon, I promise. I thought while I had a minute I would give everyone a quick update on life.
Everyone is still doing wonderful. Annaliese got her first two teeth this week. We had a rough couple of nights!! She army crawls all over the house. She hasn't tried crawling on all fours anymore. I think she may skip right to walking, we'll see.
Aubrianna just finished her first session of "school." She will be skipping up to session three which is an hour long starting next week. She is still enjoying gymnastics and her teacher told me today that she can skip a level in that too. She is growing up too fast.
Ed and I are trucking along as usual, trying not to get caught up in the business of life too much. We are both still working full time but hoping and praying that will change soon. I am contemplating going back to school this summer, already signed up for one class. We really just want to be in God's will and be about His business.
I recently auditioned for the front line worship team at church and I'm believing that if that is where God wants me He will make it happen as well as work everything out so that I can attend practice without missing more of being a good mommy and wife!
Ed still loves his job and works super hard every day to do it to the best of his ability. He is passionate about it, and that makes him so much better at it. I am so proud of him in what he does as well as his spirit about doing it.
We love you all and miss those we don't get to see often. Check back soon for pictures.

Annaliese's Dedication

2008-03-30T13:01:00.000-05:00

We dedicated Annaliese back to God. We know that God has incredible plans for her life and we are excited every day to watch that plan begin to unfold. Thank you Lord, she's your!

Easter Sunday

2008-03-23T12:40:00.005-05:00

Easter dresses

Hunting for eggs at Papa and Wela's

And the Easter Bunny left eggs at my house too!
"Look mama, I found an egg!"
What's in it?

Easter Eggs

2008-03-22T14:39:00.004-05:00

We did the traditional coloring of the eggs today. Aubrianna had a lot of fun. Annalies was napping and joined us at the end. We used it as a learing experience for colors this year.

"Green"

So excited

"Anana" This is how she says her name and she points to her chest implying "I want to do it!"
"OH wow!"

Talking about the colors.
We added animal stickers.

Annaliese had to get in on the action too. It went right to the mouth which then turned blue.

Shedd Aquarium

2008-03-20T14:25:00.004-05:00

While Michelle was here we decided to go into the city and visit the Shedd Aquarium. One of Aubrianna's favorite movies is Finding Nemo so I knew she would love it and I have been itching to get her there. We had so much fun.
This is the first fish that we stopped at. The picture is a little blurry but you can still see the huge smile on Aubrianna's face.
Annaliese loved it too. When I put her in the carrier she couldn't stop moving her hands and feet. She was so excited. That is why you can't see her face. She was moving around so much it wouldn't focus on her.

Here is the huge snapping turtle.

Watching the dolphin show.

Crawling

2008-03-16T14:20:00.001-05:00

Here is Annaliese "Flying!" If you have children you probably know what I mean. It's when they really want to go somewhere so they throw their arms and legs up and kick and claw.
And spit!
Annaliese is getting up on her hands and knees and rocking. Sometimes she rocks so hard that she send her self flying, which I guess is sort of what she is going for, right! She is going to take off any day now and I will then lose complete control.

Cousin Michelle

2008-03-16T14:19:00.001-05:00

Cousin Michelle came for a visit (she is actually Abuela's cousin) from Texas this week. The girls had so much fun with her. We can't wait until she comes back in June.

Bath Time

2008-03-14T12:47:00.000-05:00

School!?!

2008-03-13T12:41:00.001-05:00

That's right, Aubrianna has started going to school. These are pistures form her first two days. OK, so it is really just a school prep class that currently is 30minutes a day for one day a week. She does really well. This week she didn't even wimper when I took her in. There was a little boy crying and I said "go make him feel better," and off she went. My baby is a big girl!!!

2008-02-20T15:46:00.004-06:00

Today I was sitting in our office and Annaliese was in her swing right outside the door. I heard Aubrianna talking to her and I had to go out there and make sure I was hearing her right.

So I went out there and sure enough this is what I saw. Aubrianna would say "I love you Liesy" and then lean over and kiss her. It totally melted my heart.

Here she is kissing her. If you look closely it looks like she is being kissed back. Of course Annaliese is just trying to chew on her face, but it's cute. It is amazing to see how much they absolutely adore each other. Annaliese doesn't laugh as much at anyone as she does at Aubrianna.

Rolling around

2008-02-19T15:33:00.003-06:00

This is Aubrianna and Annaliese's favorite new thing to do. Aubrianna will "gently" lay on Annaliese and then the start rolling around together.
As you can see they both thouroughly enjoy it.
Aubrianna also gets her hair pulled a lot, which is Annaliese's favorite part!

"Ahh, that was fun, now take me for my nap!"

Dancing

2008-02-19T15:26:00.000-06:00

If there is anything Aubrianna loves, it's dancing! Whenever music plays she starts moving. She loves watching dancing shows on TV, especially hip-hop. She will even try to imitate the moves that they are doing. All we can do is sit in the background and laugh.

Bye Poop!

2008-01-29T15:41:00.000-06:00

We are doing great with potty training most days. Aubrianna does really well peeing in the potty. Pooping, however is another story. I can't figure out what to do about that one. When she goes in her pants we take it to the potty and put it in. I flush the potty and Aubrianna looks in and waves and says, "Bye Poop!" So cute!!!

Sitting

2008-01-27T21:30:00.000-06:00

Annaliese is learning to sit up by herself and she is doing a great job. Mimi and Papa got her this Soundstage that is a great incentive to do so. Couldn't you just squeeze those cheeks off!?!

Annaliese and her doll: 5 months

2008-01-26T19:08:00.000-06:00

Annaliese will be 5 months on Tuesday. I can't believe it. It seems like it was just last week. She is continuing to grow before our very eyes. She still enjoys rolling all over the place and is trying to learn to sit up by herself. We are also doing much better with sleeping through the night. Hopefully she will make that a habit very soon.