Potty Training - Day 1

Well, we decided that we would give potty training Tate a try. Today was the first day and the day ended even - 4 accidents and 4 successful "pee in the potty." Tate likes to wear his new underwear but isn't very good at letting me know when he needs to go. So as of right now, it is more of a guessing game to get him on the potty at the right time. My strategy today was to sit him on the potty every 30 minutes or so. He wore a diaper during his nap and we will put one on him before he goes to bed. I am just not ready to clean up a wet or messy bed. By the way, this potty training report is simply for future reference (when training child #2) not necessarily something I am writing down for my posterity.

Pregnancy Update - Week 20

HALFWAY THERE! I am feeling a little better everyday, although sleeping at night is starting to suffer. I can feel HER move several times a day now and even saw my stomach jerk as she was moving on Monday. I bought the crib bedding and have started the plans for the nursery!

We are having a GIRL!

And we couldn't be more excited!!! We had the ultrasound this afternoon and everything looks great. We took Tate with us. While I think he was pretty much bored most of the time, he was excited to see his baby sister on the giant TV.

It's a girl!

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Married for 9 happy years

Dear Rob . . .

I have no idea when you will read this since I don't think you ever check this blog. Every chance I get to write down how much I love you helps me to love you a little more. I have said this before, but you saved me. When we met, I was living in an environment (family issues) that was difficult to say the least. But you never once judged me or my family and ALWAYS gave me a safe place to be. You have always made me feel safe.

I cannot truly express how much your smile means to me. When I hear you laugh out loud, it still makes me smile. We have a home filled with happiness and laughter, and that is something that I have always wanted. I remember when we were dating that I thought how lucky I would be if I could marry you. I consider our marriage to be the greatest blessing in my life. You have taught me how to let the little things go (a process I am still working on), how to communicate, how to be an equal partner in a relationship, and how to be a better person.

Thank you for choosing me. Thank you for serving a mission and for the blessings I and our family receive because of that. Thank you for being a worthy priesthood holder. Thank you for being such an amazing Dad. My heart melts when I see how much Tate adores you. This new little baby is so lucky to have you for a daddy. Thank you for working so hard and for providing a safe and comfortable home for us. Thank you for being happy and relaxed. Thank you for being active and introducing our son to the wonderful world of sports! Thank you for loving me unconditionally. I am looking forward to spending forever together. I love you, I love you, I love you.

Always,
Ali

Pregnancy Update - Week 19

I stopped taking the anti-nausea meds becuase the side effect of constipation became more than I could handle. The good news is that I have been off the meds for four days now and haven't thrown up. I do feel yucky periodically throughout the day, but it is manageable. I have felt the baby move every other day or so and last night (on our 9th wedding anniversary) Rob was able to feel the baby move as well. What a great experience! We are counting down the days until Monday, when we will find out a little more about this little person.

Pregnancy Update - Week 18

I am about 90% sure that I felt the baby move on Sunday! But nothing since then. I had a doctor's appointment on Monday (and was sick that morning). The hearbeat was easily found and in a great range. I was also able to schedule my ultrasound for the 23rd! So in less than two weeks we should know if we are having a little boy or a little girl! I am so excited!!! Other than being sick on Monday morning, I haven't felt too bad and have been sleeping really well. I spoke too soon on the bleeding gums - that started up about a week ago. Oh well!

Pregnancy Update - Week 17

Not much has changed in the past week. I was sick once (dry heaving) and had another day where I felt yucky in the afternoon. But other than that, it seems that the meds I am taking are doing their job. My appetite has definitely picked up, so I need to watch that. I have a doctor's appointment on Monday and will be able to schedule the ultrasound that will tell us if we are having a little boy or girl. I can't wait!