Hi Vivi =)
There are so many things to catch up on! I'm going to try to remember everything from the last few weeks...let's see how well I do!
First things first: Yesterday you woke me up with your hiccups! Daddy and I laid in bed laughing at how sweet and small they were sweetheart. You are head down these days (although you can switch to a horizontal position if you feel like it (it's just not that comfy for mommy!) so that's good. And then, you got them again last night while we were in birthing class! That brings your hiccups to a total of 3 times! Super sweet little thing.
Mommy has been feeling little pangs in my nerves in my thighs recently. I asked the doctor about it yesterday. She said that you were just getting ready to be born and kind of getting yourself in position, so it may happen. I have to tell you- it's not very nice. It's the most uncomfy feeling!
You had a baby shower on July 16th that Aunt Esther and Aunt Jessica threw for you. Coco and Grandad of course helped, and it was so very beautiful. Page Daniels, Mommy's friend, took lots of pictures so I'll make sure to put a link up here for them once she posts them herself =) You got lots of sweet little clothes and fun gifts...Coco bought you a car seat and stroller (you can thank her when you're older, haha!) and Grandma Baer got you a super nice cloth diaper, passed down a sterling silver spoon to you that was mine, a cute little outfit that says "Grandma and Grandpa love me" and a diaper sprayer!
We are very blessed to have friends and loved ones that want to pour into your life. My favorite part of the shower was all of the prayers. Aunt Esther had everyone fill out cards for you of hopes and wishes and then we all sat around and prayed. I cried and cried of course! It's not fair! I'm pregnant! ;) But I truly was moved at everyone's heart cries to Jesus for you baby girl. All of the guests prayed for you in many different ways...that you would know the Lord, that you would walk in truth, that you would be found by the right man He has for you...and on and on. It was my favorite Vivi...and Aunt Sally and Grandmomma Baer are throwing you a shower this Saturday (With Lynda Poole) too! We are very blessed...
I want to tell you, the Lord has really been honoring His promises to take care of us. Your Daddy has been working hard and feeling encouraged by the Lord to continue with the training business. He has a real desire to help people take care of their temples in order to serve the Lord...it's a great fit for him and he's gone more these days (at the gym) to make it happen. In the meantime, the Lord has really been providing for us. Aunt Esther is loaning us their crib and changing table so that we don't have to get one (until they have more kiddos!), and lots of gifts have been given to us- clothes, etc.
The biggest blessing came yesterday! Aunt Sally has been nannying for a lady this summer that heard we were cloth diapering you...she happened to have wanted to do the same, but never followed through, so she donated all of her brand new NICE cloth diapers to our family. 12 AIO diapers Viv. That's hundreds of dollars that we saved. I was so excited!
Viv, one of the things I love so much about walking with the Lord is that when YOU GET OUT OF THE WAY and DON'T TRY TO FORCE GOD'S PLANS, He allllllllways brings things in a better way than you would have ever thought. He turned someone's stuff that was just lying around not being used into our diapering system that we would have had to have purchased. What if I would have bought it in my impatience? Less money for something else that God has it for. I have many examples over the last 5 years or so when God did things like this. Just out of His promise to be our provider...but I have to tell you...it's soooooooo much sweeter than doing for yourself. It feels like you get to walk hand in hand with Him, becoming more like Him and less like yourself. What a beautiful, exciting journey it is to know Jesus.
Your Dad and I have been praying for our family and for you. Last night as we were falling asleep, we just lifted you up again and the heritage you've inherited being a Baer/Elmer. We asked the Lord to allow you to be MORE, to know HIM MORE, to not be subject to generational sin in any way (we're praying in faith on that one), and to protect you. I read Psalm 139 yesterday (I'm picking bible verses for your room) and I was just so moved, not only at the way the Lord knows YOU right now, but how he knows ME. How He knows your Daddy...it is just too much to fathom. We echo David's awe for the Father in that chapter...I hope you come to love it as I have over time. This week it just seemed to be a fresh reminder...a new love and appreciation for who He is.
We have been very blessed this summer...your Daddy and I are overwhelmed with love for Jesus, for each other, and for you. We pray that we'll listen to the Lord as we endeavor to raise you (and boy will we try to do that first!), and as we grow our family more...
One last thing! We've been looking at changing our car situation...Seems like babies need a lot of room =) so we're checking into a bigger car and restructuring how we pay for transportation. We want to be the most responsible with what God is giving us right now. So, Mommy is praying for that too...I know we'll have a resolution in God's timing...
Love to you sweet Viven Kate...we'll be seeing you so soon!!!
XOXO
Mom
Thursday, July 28, 2011
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
Getting Closer
Hi little girl =)
Well...we're 32 weeks in Vivi. I can tell you are getting big fast and two days ago you decided to adopt the head down position so that you would be ready to come out!
This weekend your Aunt Esther and Aunt Jessica are throwing a baby shower for us and wouldn't you know, it's gonna be a baby BUG shower! The invitations are so so so sweet (I'll save one for your baby "book"), and I am sure with those two creative women, there will be many pictures of sweet theme ideas to come! I always have a hard time with showers because all the attention is on me and it makes me feel really weird...but I'm so thankful that people want to bless your Daddy and I, and you of course, with gifts. We're thankful to have things given to us from the love of others. It's really awesome and it reminds us to thank Jesus for friends and family.
Speaking of things given to us...Daddy and I were in your little nursery last night looking at what we had so far, and we realized everything had been given to us by other people either actually or by giving us money to purchase it. Everything except Mommy's vintage rocker and Daddy's chest of drawers for all of your clothes! WOW! We are very blessed already! I told Daddy that's what he gets for marrying an old lady: all of mommy's friends have already had babies and are ready to pass stuff on, haha! Juuuust kiddin ;) The Daniels (I have mentioned them before), Sam, Page and their daughter Sydney gave us a GARBAGE BAG FULL of newborn clothes for mommy to put you in the first little bit of your life! What a blessing! I hope you aren't too big...most of them are newborn size ;) I'll attach the picture of all the clothes at the end...I couldn't believe all the sweet little things you can wear!
Everyone is getting really excited to meet you. I love to hold Sydney, it makes me think of you and of your arrival soon. You're starting to feel very heavy in my belly! It's getting harder and harder to get up out of bed or walk fast anywhere...haha! I also seem to run out of breath more quickly...although Vivi, it's about a million degrees outside these days so unless I make it over to the pool, I try to just hang out at home in the cool air. Summers in Georgia can almost be unbearable!
I have been asking the Lord to give me a few verses for you, for your life and I believe I have one already ;) I've been asking for some verses for mommy to meditate on while in labor too...I'll be excited to share them with you sometime soon.
This weekend we went up to North Carolina to see your Aunt Rachel and you put on a little show for her kicking and rolling around. Thanks! She was excited to feel you, especially with being gone until almost right up to your birth. You are such a sweetheart. When I hug Daddy you like to move and kick, so he always says: "Oh, you don't want me to hug your mommy?" or "Oh hi Vivi! Making sure we know you're there, huh?" Something like that...you always seem to make sure that you make your prescence known. I don't mind. I love feeling you move around even if it hurts a bit sometimes. I am getting excited to hold you in my arms...
I love you sweetheart,
Mom
Well...we're 32 weeks in Vivi. I can tell you are getting big fast and two days ago you decided to adopt the head down position so that you would be ready to come out!
This weekend your Aunt Esther and Aunt Jessica are throwing a baby shower for us and wouldn't you know, it's gonna be a baby BUG shower! The invitations are so so so sweet (I'll save one for your baby "book"), and I am sure with those two creative women, there will be many pictures of sweet theme ideas to come! I always have a hard time with showers because all the attention is on me and it makes me feel really weird...but I'm so thankful that people want to bless your Daddy and I, and you of course, with gifts. We're thankful to have things given to us from the love of others. It's really awesome and it reminds us to thank Jesus for friends and family.
Speaking of things given to us...Daddy and I were in your little nursery last night looking at what we had so far, and we realized everything had been given to us by other people either actually or by giving us money to purchase it. Everything except Mommy's vintage rocker and Daddy's chest of drawers for all of your clothes! WOW! We are very blessed already! I told Daddy that's what he gets for marrying an old lady: all of mommy's friends have already had babies and are ready to pass stuff on, haha! Juuuust kiddin ;) The Daniels (I have mentioned them before), Sam, Page and their daughter Sydney gave us a GARBAGE BAG FULL of newborn clothes for mommy to put you in the first little bit of your life! What a blessing! I hope you aren't too big...most of them are newborn size ;) I'll attach the picture of all the clothes at the end...I couldn't believe all the sweet little things you can wear!
Everyone is getting really excited to meet you. I love to hold Sydney, it makes me think of you and of your arrival soon. You're starting to feel very heavy in my belly! It's getting harder and harder to get up out of bed or walk fast anywhere...haha! I also seem to run out of breath more quickly...although Vivi, it's about a million degrees outside these days so unless I make it over to the pool, I try to just hang out at home in the cool air. Summers in Georgia can almost be unbearable!
I have been asking the Lord to give me a few verses for you, for your life and I believe I have one already ;) I've been asking for some verses for mommy to meditate on while in labor too...I'll be excited to share them with you sometime soon.
This weekend we went up to North Carolina to see your Aunt Rachel and you put on a little show for her kicking and rolling around. Thanks! She was excited to feel you, especially with being gone until almost right up to your birth. You are such a sweetheart. When I hug Daddy you like to move and kick, so he always says: "Oh, you don't want me to hug your mommy?" or "Oh hi Vivi! Making sure we know you're there, huh?" Something like that...you always seem to make sure that you make your prescence known. I don't mind. I love feeling you move around even if it hurts a bit sometimes. I am getting excited to hold you in my arms...
I love you sweetheart,
Mom
Monday, July 4, 2011
Happy Independence day!
Hi Viv,
Well today your daddy is at work...and I'm here with you. You've been pretty quiet all morning, even though I've had a bit of coffee. =) I just couldn't go back to sleep after your daddy left so I thought I might write you!
Yesterday a year ago your daddy asked me to marry him. What a wonderful year it has been. While we can't wait to meet you and cuddle you and kiss your sweet face, we are very thankful for each other and what the Lord gave us. Your Daddy is so awesome. He's smart and funny and handsome (all the things every woman wants), but most importantly: He loves Jesus with a passion. Your Daddy has certain ideas about living for the Lord for the short time that we're here. I like to listen to him expressing his passion for intimacy with the Lord for all people, and when we're alone, I get to hear your Daddy pray and talk to Jesus in a way that makes me love him even more than I thought I ever could. One day there will be a man that wants to marry you (I'm sure!), so you'll want to trust your Daddy to be able to help discern if he's the right one for you. Daddy's know other men and your Daddy will be able to tell =)
Your Mommy waited a long time for your Daddy, Vivi. I dated different men throughout my twenties, but it never was quite right. I loved certain things about each one (I'm the eternal optimist!!!) and I appreciate, as I now reflect, on how different relationships taught me different things...but no one compares to your Dad. He's the perfect man for me and even though at the time it seemed like waiting any longer for him would just KILL ME, I would wait longer for him if the Lord asked me to. And one day, I hope you can have that perspective too. Mommy loves to tell people "Most people fail rather than succeed because they give up what they want MOST for what they want in a MOMENT". The statement resonates so much for me because I had my share of failures along the way. But that's the beauty of our redeeming Lord. Maybe another day we'll talk about that ;)
In the meantime, you should know, there is a video that Aunt Rachel filmed (while hiding) of your Dad's proposal to me. The video only really encapsulates the actual moment though. Your Dad had started pursuing me before he actually asked me. You'll want to marry someone with such deliberate intentions too, I promise. =) Your Dad made it clear to me after we had only spent a few nights talking in person getting to know each other, that he wanted to date me and me only. Then he told me that he wouldn't be saying things such as "I love you" unless he planned on only saying it to me for the rest of my life. And then after the "I love you" came the story he started sending me bit by bit on my phone every morning leading up to the engagement night. And the flowers! I can't forget all the roses! He started giving me roses the week leading up to July 3rd. Roses with little tags on them with all sorts of little sayings about me, him, US...and then the night of our engagement, FLOWERS- 372 of them! All with little tags...and candles and music, and our family there to support us. It was so very sweet...your Dad even picked out my engagement ring, which I wanted. I think it means more to have your husband pick it out...it's HIS gift to you after all. And wouldn't you know baby girl, your Daddy picked out a better ring than I would have ever picked for myself!!!
Letting the man of your life actually BE the man of your life is the way that you can show others the church's need to submit to Christ. Your Daddy quoted Ephesians 5:1-2 to me when he proposed...and a year later sweetheart, I have a man that exemplifies those verses even more deeply than he did the day he uttered them. What a committed man your Daddy is...preferring me before himself in so many ways...it's so very humbling Viv. I truly already pray for your husband one day. I am counting on the Lord to preserve his life, to save his soul, to place in him a desire to wait for you and to love Jesus above all. What a life changing experience marriage is...and when you marry the one God has for you, it's life changing for the good.
You're going to be here very soon. Your Daddy and I are going to start some classes this week to prepare us for the experience of birth. I am not nervous. I'm more excited to rely on the Lord and to share this with your Daddy. Pregnancy has been a JOY so far. And as of late, you are getting so much bigger so you have sort of mellowed out in my tummy. I feel you flutter around, but no more hard kicks...now it's just little readjustments =) I kid your Daddy that you like to flop around like he does to get comfy at night, hah! So it's been nice to just sort of press on my tummy and feel your shoulder, or your foot...it's totally surreal...especially knowing soon that I get to kiss every one of those little toes! =)
This past Friday, some of your mommy's friends, Page and Nathalie, took pictures of me. They took some of your Daddy and me too ;) I haven't seen but just a few, however, I know I will treasure them for a long time to come! Like I said, I feel very VERY blessed at how the Lord is taking care of me in this pregnancy...it's been a dream.
I'm praying for you and can't wait to meet you soon sweetheart...
Love,
Mom
Well today your daddy is at work...and I'm here with you. You've been pretty quiet all morning, even though I've had a bit of coffee. =) I just couldn't go back to sleep after your daddy left so I thought I might write you!
Yesterday a year ago your daddy asked me to marry him. What a wonderful year it has been. While we can't wait to meet you and cuddle you and kiss your sweet face, we are very thankful for each other and what the Lord gave us. Your Daddy is so awesome. He's smart and funny and handsome (all the things every woman wants), but most importantly: He loves Jesus with a passion. Your Daddy has certain ideas about living for the Lord for the short time that we're here. I like to listen to him expressing his passion for intimacy with the Lord for all people, and when we're alone, I get to hear your Daddy pray and talk to Jesus in a way that makes me love him even more than I thought I ever could. One day there will be a man that wants to marry you (I'm sure!), so you'll want to trust your Daddy to be able to help discern if he's the right one for you. Daddy's know other men and your Daddy will be able to tell =)
Your Mommy waited a long time for your Daddy, Vivi. I dated different men throughout my twenties, but it never was quite right. I loved certain things about each one (I'm the eternal optimist!!!) and I appreciate, as I now reflect, on how different relationships taught me different things...but no one compares to your Dad. He's the perfect man for me and even though at the time it seemed like waiting any longer for him would just KILL ME, I would wait longer for him if the Lord asked me to. And one day, I hope you can have that perspective too. Mommy loves to tell people "Most people fail rather than succeed because they give up what they want MOST for what they want in a MOMENT". The statement resonates so much for me because I had my share of failures along the way. But that's the beauty of our redeeming Lord. Maybe another day we'll talk about that ;)
In the meantime, you should know, there is a video that Aunt Rachel filmed (while hiding) of your Dad's proposal to me. The video only really encapsulates the actual moment though. Your Dad had started pursuing me before he actually asked me. You'll want to marry someone with such deliberate intentions too, I promise. =) Your Dad made it clear to me after we had only spent a few nights talking in person getting to know each other, that he wanted to date me and me only. Then he told me that he wouldn't be saying things such as "I love you" unless he planned on only saying it to me for the rest of my life. And then after the "I love you" came the story he started sending me bit by bit on my phone every morning leading up to the engagement night. And the flowers! I can't forget all the roses! He started giving me roses the week leading up to July 3rd. Roses with little tags on them with all sorts of little sayings about me, him, US...and then the night of our engagement, FLOWERS- 372 of them! All with little tags...and candles and music, and our family there to support us. It was so very sweet...your Dad even picked out my engagement ring, which I wanted. I think it means more to have your husband pick it out...it's HIS gift to you after all. And wouldn't you know baby girl, your Daddy picked out a better ring than I would have ever picked for myself!!!
Letting the man of your life actually BE the man of your life is the way that you can show others the church's need to submit to Christ. Your Daddy quoted Ephesians 5:1-2 to me when he proposed...and a year later sweetheart, I have a man that exemplifies those verses even more deeply than he did the day he uttered them. What a committed man your Daddy is...preferring me before himself in so many ways...it's so very humbling Viv. I truly already pray for your husband one day. I am counting on the Lord to preserve his life, to save his soul, to place in him a desire to wait for you and to love Jesus above all. What a life changing experience marriage is...and when you marry the one God has for you, it's life changing for the good.
You're going to be here very soon. Your Daddy and I are going to start some classes this week to prepare us for the experience of birth. I am not nervous. I'm more excited to rely on the Lord and to share this with your Daddy. Pregnancy has been a JOY so far. And as of late, you are getting so much bigger so you have sort of mellowed out in my tummy. I feel you flutter around, but no more hard kicks...now it's just little readjustments =) I kid your Daddy that you like to flop around like he does to get comfy at night, hah! So it's been nice to just sort of press on my tummy and feel your shoulder, or your foot...it's totally surreal...especially knowing soon that I get to kiss every one of those little toes! =)
This past Friday, some of your mommy's friends, Page and Nathalie, took pictures of me. They took some of your Daddy and me too ;) I haven't seen but just a few, however, I know I will treasure them for a long time to come! Like I said, I feel very VERY blessed at how the Lord is taking care of me in this pregnancy...it's been a dream.
I'm praying for you and can't wait to meet you soon sweetheart...
Love,
Mom
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
30 WEEKS!
Hi Vivien,
Welllll, we're in the third trimester now and your mom is getting asked more frequently when YOU will be here =) Daddy and I are always excited to tell people about you. What we know, anyways =)
You are very awake in the mid morning when I wake up, usually around 9:30-10, and you get a little lethargic after I eat something for breakfast...you spend most of the day quiet, with just subtle movements here or there. It's almost like you may be sleeping and just getting comfy in your sleep state. Of course, every once in a while you'll move a bunch in the afternoon and it shocks me. In the evenings you are wide awake and moving around. It's super sweet to try and guess if it's your foot or your hand, etc pushing on my tummy! Your Daddy holds my belly a lot these days and asks you if you are bowling in there or something! You are quite the little mover!
I take you to the pool with me frequently. At least twice a week. It's sooooo nice to float in the water and read outside. I am a HUGE fan of the water and find myself looking at other little girl babies/toddlers/kids at the pool around me wondering what our little girl might be like.
I've been praying this week for whatever day you'll be born on and that the whole process will go smoothly. I am trusting the Lord to get me through it. I'm a bit dramatic, (haha!) so I wonder what my response will be to the whole ordeal. I am really leaning on the Lord in prayer these days to just wait patiently and trust that He will handle it. I honestly don't know how people live without Jesus...without the peace of the Holy Spirit to guide them. I guess they call it "inner strength" or some weirdness like that.
Your cousin Isaac was VERY CUTE this week. He's 3 and loves to greet Uncle Jon and Aunt Sarah when we go over to Coco and Grandad's house. He sat next to me on the couch this week and Aunt Esther told him you were in my belly getting big. Isaac said "Baby Bibie!" and kissed my tummy (to kiss you!), super sweet darling girl =)
The next day, your Aunt Esther texted me to let me know Isaac had prayed for you before bed. He prayed for baby biby and said "She kicks Aunt Sarah a lot". SUPER ADORABLE! Even Isaac is praying for you!!!
The last few weeks I couldn't eat enough peaches...but I think I may be over the whole tart food phase. Nowadays I am just plain hungry, for real food! You are getting big and need the sustenance I am guessing =)
Your Aunt Esther has blessed us with a crib for you, so your room is pretty much done sweetheart (once we put it up!)...I just need to hang some pictures, but I'll do that when it gets closer. Maybe I'll take a picture of the room at the end of the summer before you get here.
I babysat recently for our friends Sam and Page. Their little girl is 11 months and her name is Sydney. She slept in your room in your pac 'n play and I probably went it just to look at her sleeping 5 times! I couldn't help but think about you while I was watching her play in your space. At the end of the night, your daddy and I went in together and just looked at her and thought about you.
Daddy is super in love with you and has been reading to you from the Psalms. When I was a little girl, my Grandma Baer taught me Psalm 23 and when your Daddy and I read it to you recently, it reminded me of those fond memories. Learning scripture is so cool. I wish I knew more, but the things I know, I always take to the Lord and use to lean on everyday. I think, if YOUR Grandma Baer doesn't beat me to it, I may try to teach you the same Psalm. But you'll see, your Grandma Baer is very excited to teach you about Jesus...gosh, I am too. I'm excited for you to know Him too...there is no greater joy in life than knowing Jesus, Vivie.
I'm trusting the Lord for a lot of things these days sweet girl. Lots of people and books have lots of ideas about how to raise kids, etc. And I find myself just asking the Lord to teach me to be a mom. YOUR Mom. I don't need to know how to love you anymore...most days I feel like my heart may burst from how much I already love you...but there are other things I wonder about for sure.
Okay sweetheart, you haven't made a peep since I started writing...maybe you're a lot like your mommy--- a SOUND sleeper! That'd be nice for you...Daddy wakes up very easily, so go easy on the nighttime crying once you get here...he'll appreciate it =)
I love you,
Mom
Welllll, we're in the third trimester now and your mom is getting asked more frequently when YOU will be here =) Daddy and I are always excited to tell people about you. What we know, anyways =)
You are very awake in the mid morning when I wake up, usually around 9:30-10, and you get a little lethargic after I eat something for breakfast...you spend most of the day quiet, with just subtle movements here or there. It's almost like you may be sleeping and just getting comfy in your sleep state. Of course, every once in a while you'll move a bunch in the afternoon and it shocks me. In the evenings you are wide awake and moving around. It's super sweet to try and guess if it's your foot or your hand, etc pushing on my tummy! Your Daddy holds my belly a lot these days and asks you if you are bowling in there or something! You are quite the little mover!
I take you to the pool with me frequently. At least twice a week. It's sooooo nice to float in the water and read outside. I am a HUGE fan of the water and find myself looking at other little girl babies/toddlers/kids at the pool around me wondering what our little girl might be like.
I've been praying this week for whatever day you'll be born on and that the whole process will go smoothly. I am trusting the Lord to get me through it. I'm a bit dramatic, (haha!) so I wonder what my response will be to the whole ordeal. I am really leaning on the Lord in prayer these days to just wait patiently and trust that He will handle it. I honestly don't know how people live without Jesus...without the peace of the Holy Spirit to guide them. I guess they call it "inner strength" or some weirdness like that.
Your cousin Isaac was VERY CUTE this week. He's 3 and loves to greet Uncle Jon and Aunt Sarah when we go over to Coco and Grandad's house. He sat next to me on the couch this week and Aunt Esther told him you were in my belly getting big. Isaac said "Baby Bibie!" and kissed my tummy (to kiss you!), super sweet darling girl =)
The next day, your Aunt Esther texted me to let me know Isaac had prayed for you before bed. He prayed for baby biby and said "She kicks Aunt Sarah a lot". SUPER ADORABLE! Even Isaac is praying for you!!!
The last few weeks I couldn't eat enough peaches...but I think I may be over the whole tart food phase. Nowadays I am just plain hungry, for real food! You are getting big and need the sustenance I am guessing =)
Your Aunt Esther has blessed us with a crib for you, so your room is pretty much done sweetheart (once we put it up!)...I just need to hang some pictures, but I'll do that when it gets closer. Maybe I'll take a picture of the room at the end of the summer before you get here.
I babysat recently for our friends Sam and Page. Their little girl is 11 months and her name is Sydney. She slept in your room in your pac 'n play and I probably went it just to look at her sleeping 5 times! I couldn't help but think about you while I was watching her play in your space. At the end of the night, your daddy and I went in together and just looked at her and thought about you.
Daddy is super in love with you and has been reading to you from the Psalms. When I was a little girl, my Grandma Baer taught me Psalm 23 and when your Daddy and I read it to you recently, it reminded me of those fond memories. Learning scripture is so cool. I wish I knew more, but the things I know, I always take to the Lord and use to lean on everyday. I think, if YOUR Grandma Baer doesn't beat me to it, I may try to teach you the same Psalm. But you'll see, your Grandma Baer is very excited to teach you about Jesus...gosh, I am too. I'm excited for you to know Him too...there is no greater joy in life than knowing Jesus, Vivie.
I'm trusting the Lord for a lot of things these days sweet girl. Lots of people and books have lots of ideas about how to raise kids, etc. And I find myself just asking the Lord to teach me to be a mom. YOUR Mom. I don't need to know how to love you anymore...most days I feel like my heart may burst from how much I already love you...but there are other things I wonder about for sure.
Okay sweetheart, you haven't made a peep since I started writing...maybe you're a lot like your mommy--- a SOUND sleeper! That'd be nice for you...Daddy wakes up very easily, so go easy on the nighttime crying once you get here...he'll appreciate it =)
I love you,
Mom
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Beautiful Girl!
Hi there sweetheart...
Right now you seem to be asleep in my belly--- you haven't moved since you heard your daddy's voice earlier today, but it seems like when I get still I feel you the most- so we'll see ;)
I dreamed the other night that I wasn't pregnant anymore....I guess with only 110 days left to go before I meet you, I am really feeling ready to see your sweet face and hold you =) Yesterday your Gramdma Baer and I went to the doctor (your daddy had to work!) and she enjoyed hearing your heartbeat. The doctor had to chase you around a bit cause you were flopping around as usual! I told him it was just who you were, alllllllways moving and grovin'! I had to get stuck with TWO NEEDLES yesterday. Believe me when I say darling, I am LESS NERVOUS ABOUT HAVING YOU then I am about needles!!!! I HATE THEM! I can't explain it, I just don't like getting my skin punctured, ugh!!!! I asked the doctor if I would have to have an IV when I was having you. He sort of laughed at me and told me that I would need it. Today I'm trying to come up with any possible reason that I can use to avoid the IV. Maybe if I come in like MINUTES before you are born then they won't have time? Like a movie scene or something?! I don't know baby girl, but the doctor also joked that maybe I'll be so upset and worried about the IV that having you will be a breeze... ;)
Your daddy and I are signed up for classes now so that I can learn how to breathe through labor and know what to expect. Knowing what to expect will really help me to get through your birth without needing drugs or needing to be cut open. Daddy and I really want to have more little kiddos besides just you sweetheart, so we're trying to go the natural route to make it possbile.
As far as your temperament, I should tell you: Yesterday I was reading my chronological Bible (Aunt Katie and I are reading it in about 6 months) and you KICKED IT OFF OF MY BELLY 4 TIMES! I was LAUGHING! You are such a little monkey in there, always wanting things comfortable according to you---- you don't like mommy sleeping on her right side in bed, you'll kick me and kick me (or hit me) until I switch to my left! I frequently put my belly on Daddy's arm or leg or side and let him feel you going all bananas! He'll say "Vivien, calm down baby girl" and rub my tummy. And we just chuckle at how spirited you seem to be already.
Grandma Baer thought it would be appropriate to tell the doctor yesterday that your mommy was a Theatre teacher and perhaps THAT'S why YOU are so dramatic! We'll see....
On mother's day Mommy got some sweet gifts from family members. I protested that I wasn't a mother yet, but Coco and your Grandma Baer were insistent that I WAS! Coco gave me a CUTE little PINK TUTU for you with a sweet little hat and headband that you can put different clips on. You are going to be a little princess already! And your Aunt Esther gave you the CUTEST ballet slippers that are leopard with little black bows and a little black headband--- you'll be adorable. Grandma Baer gave your MOMMY something though ;) She gave me a pretty maternity shirt in a coral color that I can wear a little later this summer as you get VERY BIG! I was excited for the gift! Seems like we BOTH got little gifts on mother's day, huh?
I'm working on your nursery a bit today sweetheart. We're still praying for some of the last details for things you need, but in the meantime, it's been going very well...we are blessed that the Lord is taking care of us. He is gracious and knows our needs!
I love you,
Mommy
P.S. We call you Vivien...I can't wait to meet you Vivien.
Right now you seem to be asleep in my belly--- you haven't moved since you heard your daddy's voice earlier today, but it seems like when I get still I feel you the most- so we'll see ;)
I dreamed the other night that I wasn't pregnant anymore....I guess with only 110 days left to go before I meet you, I am really feeling ready to see your sweet face and hold you =) Yesterday your Gramdma Baer and I went to the doctor (your daddy had to work!) and she enjoyed hearing your heartbeat. The doctor had to chase you around a bit cause you were flopping around as usual! I told him it was just who you were, alllllllways moving and grovin'! I had to get stuck with TWO NEEDLES yesterday. Believe me when I say darling, I am LESS NERVOUS ABOUT HAVING YOU then I am about needles!!!! I HATE THEM! I can't explain it, I just don't like getting my skin punctured, ugh!!!! I asked the doctor if I would have to have an IV when I was having you. He sort of laughed at me and told me that I would need it. Today I'm trying to come up with any possible reason that I can use to avoid the IV. Maybe if I come in like MINUTES before you are born then they won't have time? Like a movie scene or something?! I don't know baby girl, but the doctor also joked that maybe I'll be so upset and worried about the IV that having you will be a breeze... ;)
Your daddy and I are signed up for classes now so that I can learn how to breathe through labor and know what to expect. Knowing what to expect will really help me to get through your birth without needing drugs or needing to be cut open. Daddy and I really want to have more little kiddos besides just you sweetheart, so we're trying to go the natural route to make it possbile.
As far as your temperament, I should tell you: Yesterday I was reading my chronological Bible (Aunt Katie and I are reading it in about 6 months) and you KICKED IT OFF OF MY BELLY 4 TIMES! I was LAUGHING! You are such a little monkey in there, always wanting things comfortable according to you---- you don't like mommy sleeping on her right side in bed, you'll kick me and kick me (or hit me) until I switch to my left! I frequently put my belly on Daddy's arm or leg or side and let him feel you going all bananas! He'll say "Vivien, calm down baby girl" and rub my tummy. And we just chuckle at how spirited you seem to be already.
Grandma Baer thought it would be appropriate to tell the doctor yesterday that your mommy was a Theatre teacher and perhaps THAT'S why YOU are so dramatic! We'll see....
On mother's day Mommy got some sweet gifts from family members. I protested that I wasn't a mother yet, but Coco and your Grandma Baer were insistent that I WAS! Coco gave me a CUTE little PINK TUTU for you with a sweet little hat and headband that you can put different clips on. You are going to be a little princess already! And your Aunt Esther gave you the CUTEST ballet slippers that are leopard with little black bows and a little black headband--- you'll be adorable. Grandma Baer gave your MOMMY something though ;) She gave me a pretty maternity shirt in a coral color that I can wear a little later this summer as you get VERY BIG! I was excited for the gift! Seems like we BOTH got little gifts on mother's day, huh?
I'm working on your nursery a bit today sweetheart. We're still praying for some of the last details for things you need, but in the meantime, it's been going very well...we are blessed that the Lord is taking care of us. He is gracious and knows our needs!
I love you,
Mommy
P.S. We call you Vivien...I can't wait to meet you Vivien.
Friday, April 22, 2011
OUR BABY GIRL!!!
Hi sweet GIRL!!!
Yep, you are officially our little girl =) On Wednesday Daddy and I went to get the ultrasound done to see you...it actually almost didn't work out! We showed up and Mommy's nurse said "You aren't scheduled for an ultrasound" and I almost lost it! I thought waiting until you were almost 21 weeks was painful enough--- now they're telling me I may leave again NOT KNOWING?! I looked at Daddy like "Solve this!" haha =) So, the nurse ran to see if anyone was around that could do an ultrasound and there was ONE WOMAN that had stayed late (apparently they only work half days on Wednesday) and she said she'd squeeze us in! OH PRAISE THE LORD!!! We took off for the room to see her and sure enough, we got to see you Baby bug =)
The Ultrasound tech showed us all your little limbs (you were all sprawled out in there!) and measured you. She showed us your little baby tummy and that it was working (she could tell by the color!) and your kidneys, and your sweet little brain forming. We saw your heart and all the chambers beating (144 bpm!) Daddy and I were in awe and I couldn't stop crying...I dabbed at my eyes and repeated silently to myself to hold it together, but I had been waiting to see you for weeks and weeks and it was just so surreal. I just couldn't believe that I was getting to see you! I'm loving feeling you bouncing around inside of me and Daddy feels you all the time kicking me too...this week Aunt Wade AND Aunt Sally felt you kicking...they were SUPER excited =)
So we are actively praying now for your sweet name...Daddy and I both still like Vivien Kate, so we'll keep praying and allow the Lord to steer us another way if that's not what he has for you...which is totally possible =) I think the Kate is settled, but Mommy knows that names are a big deal, so I just want to make sure we choose right =)
Today I researched diapers (reeeeally exciting, right?!) because this is Mommy's job...getting ready to be a Mommy!!! In the meantime, I AM LOVING THE NAPS...thanks sweet girl...if only you would knock off the kicking when I want to sleep ;) Sometimes I tap my tummy and ask you to knock it off (nicely) or Daddy will say "This is your Daddy speaking, you let your Mommy sleep little girl!" Hahahaha!
I'm praying for you darling girl. I think that when I thought you might be a little boy, I felt sort of relieved...like I might escape some of the hardships of having a daughter (apparently we are going to hate each other when you're a teenager...refer to this blog when you think I hate you ;))...but now that I know you are a little girl, MY little girl, I am thinking, okay Lord...you knew what you were up to allllllllll along. Thank you for giving me the ability as I seek you, to do the best I can with YOUR daughter.
I love you my little girl...(and Daddy loves you too...he's hard at work behind me making sure we can afford to feed you, haha!)
xoxo, Mommy
(Here's your little face...Mommy thinks you have Daddy's mouth...wonder if it'll be true?!)
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Driving and Settlers
Hi Baby Bug!
Okay, the countdown is on! In about 8 days we get to see you again and find out if you are a he or if you are a she! Mommy is VERY excited to see your sweet little face on that machine...You can't imagine how much I pray for you and how much I think about you...You are very loved. This week you played a little kick game with me! Baby bug, I think you might be quite bright for such a little thing...most things I read about pregnancy tell me that you shouldn't be exploring so much inside of me, but you are...The other night Daddy and I were laying in bed talking and you kept kicking me high up (near the top of my uterus according to my understanding of where that is hitting me these days) and then you stopped. So I pressed down twice where you were kicking, and waited--- nothing...so I pressed down twice again...no response...and then I did it AGAIN...and you kicked/hit me back! It was precious! I thought I would die from a bursting heart I was so overwhelmed. Sorry to be so sappy sweetheart, but I couldn't believe that that had happened...it's supposed to be about another 5 weeks before those sort of shenanigans are going on! You're still very little baby bug...you don't even weigh a pound yet. Tiny, tiny little explorer in my tummy, you are always moving and shakin'!
I thought of some things that you should know:
1. There is no logical way that you won't be competitive. Your Mommy and Daddy have been beating up on everyone in Settlers (this board game we love to play)...Mommy is on a hot streak these days. But, as far as competing goes, Mommy and Daddy love to win...at whatever. Mommy went to watch Daddy play ultimate frisbee with his friends on Sunday afternoon this past week. Let's just say, your Daddy really likes to win ;) So get ready little one...later in life when we're telling you not to be a bad sport and try harder (etc etc) just remember that we are probably preaching to the choir, hahahaha! Juuuust kidding ;)
2. There is no way that you won't be an excellent driver. Mommy and Daddy both are very good drivers...Your Mommy grew up on go carts and riding lawn mowers, and I drove my first car with your Great Grandpa Baer when I was 13. You should know that I always tell people that if I hadn't been in theater, I would've been a race car driver. I love it. Daddy feels likewise...and when we were married, he brought his mustang into the arrangement ;) Mommy loves driving Daddy's car because it's a stick. Just get ready baby bug--- you'll learn how to drive stick. It's a must. Mommy taught a lot of her friends over the years to drive stick. She even taught her brother and sister--- your Aunt Rachel and Uncle Steve. If your Great Uncle John were still alive (Mommy misses him terribly. He missed knowing about you by about a month...) he would teach you about cars and driving. Mommy and Uncle JB (that's what we call him) were very close friends. We lived near each other in California and spent lots of time together over the years that I lived out there. We grew in our relationships with the Lord and he was like a Daddy to me when my Dad was on the east coast. I am very sad that you won't ever get to meet Uncle JB...He was seriously THE COOLEST. Seriously. There will never be ANYONE like Uncle JB. One day in heaven we'll get to be together again and he's so blessed now to get to be with Jesus. He was in a lot of pain before he passed away last year--- so I'm glad he isn't suffering anymore.
Uncle JB and Mommy worked on some cars together in California. He taught me how to change brake pads and rotars, among other things. Your Grandpa Baer (my Dad!) is Uncle JB's older brother...Grandpa Baer can tell you lots of stories about Uncle JB...he had the fastest cars over the years. When he was young no one in the state of Ohio that challenged JB could beat him in drag races--- even with a rolling start! You would've loved to hear his stories. Grandpa Baer and Uncle Steve know lots about cars too. If you are a little boy you might take up an interest in cars. That would be cool =) I'm sure some of the men around here would love to do that with you. If you are a little girl, you can still work on cars, just be the best driver around sweetheart and help change the stigma about "women drivers"...it's our duty baby bug...
I'm crazy in love with you Baby Bug. Daddy told me today that he hasn't written recently because he's been mighty busy with work stuff. And that's true. You are going to be very proud to call Jonathan Elmer your Daddy one day. Your Daddy is a very hardworking man. He is constantly seeking the Lord these days about the different things he should be doing. Your Daddy and I have no desire to live apart from God's will. We have zero design for our lives, choosing rather to humbly submit to God's divine purpose for us. I have to admit, it is WAY MORE EXCITING that if we were planning things ourselves. Of course, this still means we have work to do, it's just important to know what the peace of the Lord is about so that you know where to "walk" =) Seriously Baby bug, the best thing about Jesus is that He is the friend that sticks closer than a brother (Proverbs 18:24)...it's easy to know Him and this is the most important decision you make in life...to know Jesus. Life is not worth living without Him and I can tell you that with all sincerity because I know. I pray for your little heart to be in love with Jesus as often as I think of it...praying that you would never ever be separate from Him because of your own choices. You should know that the Lord answers prayer, so watch out! haha ;)
Maybe one day I will tell you about sin and its consequences as far as it relates to my own life...my story...but for now, you're much too little.
Baby bug, one last thing before I go: one of your Mommy's favorite verses is Galatians 1:10
For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ.
LOVE IT! Daddy and I have been feeling that verse this week a lot. Sometimes taking a stand for something Biblical is very unpopular. You are being born into a culture that loves themselves, prefers tolerance over truth, promotes the murdering of babies for convenience in their own lives, and subscribes to moral relativism...they worship the CREATION rather than the CREATOR and it leads to death. Solomon of the Bible (in Ecclesiastes) would simply say "There's nothing new under the sun" and call it a day. And the Bible says he was the wisest man to ever live--- God gave him liberal wisdom because he asked for it. I LOVE the story of Solomon...he had everything at his disposal--- yet at the end of his life said it was trash. Your Daddy's favorite book is Ecclesiastes =) All that to say darling, that verse has always been important to me, but this week I felt it heavily. Sometimes the Lord calls you to stand up for something and it's unpopular. Knowing Him, you understand that reverentially fearing Him is more important than "pleasing men" or looking the other way to avoid conflict, etc. etc. You should know that your Daddy and I will never fear man over our Lord. Even in my weak moments when I feel attacked (this week we stood up for a subject in the Bible that caused all sorts of drama--- people wrote Mommy emails that weren't very nice and said things that could've been taken personally), I remember that the wellspring of my heart flows for Christ. He is my Savior and My God. I would give up everything I have, do anything He asked me to, or offend anyone (unfortunately), in order to please Him.
I would be nothing without Him.
Have I talked enough about Jesus now? Haha =) I have to get some work done baby bug. Your little nursery isn't going to arrange itself and I need to hunt for a crib for you--- praying that the Lord would provide, knowing that He already has it all taken care of.
I love you...xoxo Mommy
Okay, the countdown is on! In about 8 days we get to see you again and find out if you are a he or if you are a she! Mommy is VERY excited to see your sweet little face on that machine...You can't imagine how much I pray for you and how much I think about you...You are very loved. This week you played a little kick game with me! Baby bug, I think you might be quite bright for such a little thing...most things I read about pregnancy tell me that you shouldn't be exploring so much inside of me, but you are...The other night Daddy and I were laying in bed talking and you kept kicking me high up (near the top of my uterus according to my understanding of where that is hitting me these days) and then you stopped. So I pressed down twice where you were kicking, and waited--- nothing...so I pressed down twice again...no response...and then I did it AGAIN...and you kicked/hit me back! It was precious! I thought I would die from a bursting heart I was so overwhelmed. Sorry to be so sappy sweetheart, but I couldn't believe that that had happened...it's supposed to be about another 5 weeks before those sort of shenanigans are going on! You're still very little baby bug...you don't even weigh a pound yet. Tiny, tiny little explorer in my tummy, you are always moving and shakin'!
I thought of some things that you should know:
1. There is no logical way that you won't be competitive. Your Mommy and Daddy have been beating up on everyone in Settlers (this board game we love to play)...Mommy is on a hot streak these days. But, as far as competing goes, Mommy and Daddy love to win...at whatever. Mommy went to watch Daddy play ultimate frisbee with his friends on Sunday afternoon this past week. Let's just say, your Daddy really likes to win ;) So get ready little one...later in life when we're telling you not to be a bad sport and try harder (etc etc) just remember that we are probably preaching to the choir, hahahaha! Juuuust kidding ;)
2. There is no way that you won't be an excellent driver. Mommy and Daddy both are very good drivers...Your Mommy grew up on go carts and riding lawn mowers, and I drove my first car with your Great Grandpa Baer when I was 13. You should know that I always tell people that if I hadn't been in theater, I would've been a race car driver. I love it. Daddy feels likewise...and when we were married, he brought his mustang into the arrangement ;) Mommy loves driving Daddy's car because it's a stick. Just get ready baby bug--- you'll learn how to drive stick. It's a must. Mommy taught a lot of her friends over the years to drive stick. She even taught her brother and sister--- your Aunt Rachel and Uncle Steve. If your Great Uncle John were still alive (Mommy misses him terribly. He missed knowing about you by about a month...) he would teach you about cars and driving. Mommy and Uncle JB (that's what we call him) were very close friends. We lived near each other in California and spent lots of time together over the years that I lived out there. We grew in our relationships with the Lord and he was like a Daddy to me when my Dad was on the east coast. I am very sad that you won't ever get to meet Uncle JB...He was seriously THE COOLEST. Seriously. There will never be ANYONE like Uncle JB. One day in heaven we'll get to be together again and he's so blessed now to get to be with Jesus. He was in a lot of pain before he passed away last year--- so I'm glad he isn't suffering anymore.
Uncle JB and Mommy worked on some cars together in California. He taught me how to change brake pads and rotars, among other things. Your Grandpa Baer (my Dad!) is Uncle JB's older brother...Grandpa Baer can tell you lots of stories about Uncle JB...he had the fastest cars over the years. When he was young no one in the state of Ohio that challenged JB could beat him in drag races--- even with a rolling start! You would've loved to hear his stories. Grandpa Baer and Uncle Steve know lots about cars too. If you are a little boy you might take up an interest in cars. That would be cool =) I'm sure some of the men around here would love to do that with you. If you are a little girl, you can still work on cars, just be the best driver around sweetheart and help change the stigma about "women drivers"...it's our duty baby bug...
I'm crazy in love with you Baby Bug. Daddy told me today that he hasn't written recently because he's been mighty busy with work stuff. And that's true. You are going to be very proud to call Jonathan Elmer your Daddy one day. Your Daddy is a very hardworking man. He is constantly seeking the Lord these days about the different things he should be doing. Your Daddy and I have no desire to live apart from God's will. We have zero design for our lives, choosing rather to humbly submit to God's divine purpose for us. I have to admit, it is WAY MORE EXCITING that if we were planning things ourselves. Of course, this still means we have work to do, it's just important to know what the peace of the Lord is about so that you know where to "walk" =) Seriously Baby bug, the best thing about Jesus is that He is the friend that sticks closer than a brother (Proverbs 18:24)...it's easy to know Him and this is the most important decision you make in life...to know Jesus. Life is not worth living without Him and I can tell you that with all sincerity because I know. I pray for your little heart to be in love with Jesus as often as I think of it...praying that you would never ever be separate from Him because of your own choices. You should know that the Lord answers prayer, so watch out! haha ;)
Maybe one day I will tell you about sin and its consequences as far as it relates to my own life...my story...but for now, you're much too little.
Baby bug, one last thing before I go: one of your Mommy's favorite verses is Galatians 1:10
For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ.
LOVE IT! Daddy and I have been feeling that verse this week a lot. Sometimes taking a stand for something Biblical is very unpopular. You are being born into a culture that loves themselves, prefers tolerance over truth, promotes the murdering of babies for convenience in their own lives, and subscribes to moral relativism...they worship the CREATION rather than the CREATOR and it leads to death. Solomon of the Bible (in Ecclesiastes) would simply say "There's nothing new under the sun" and call it a day. And the Bible says he was the wisest man to ever live--- God gave him liberal wisdom because he asked for it. I LOVE the story of Solomon...he had everything at his disposal--- yet at the end of his life said it was trash. Your Daddy's favorite book is Ecclesiastes =) All that to say darling, that verse has always been important to me, but this week I felt it heavily. Sometimes the Lord calls you to stand up for something and it's unpopular. Knowing Him, you understand that reverentially fearing Him is more important than "pleasing men" or looking the other way to avoid conflict, etc. etc. You should know that your Daddy and I will never fear man over our Lord. Even in my weak moments when I feel attacked (this week we stood up for a subject in the Bible that caused all sorts of drama--- people wrote Mommy emails that weren't very nice and said things that could've been taken personally), I remember that the wellspring of my heart flows for Christ. He is my Savior and My God. I would give up everything I have, do anything He asked me to, or offend anyone (unfortunately), in order to please Him.
I would be nothing without Him.
Have I talked enough about Jesus now? Haha =) I have to get some work done baby bug. Your little nursery isn't going to arrange itself and I need to hunt for a crib for you--- praying that the Lord would provide, knowing that He already has it all taken care of.
I love you...xoxo Mommy
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)