Being A Mom of Two

Wow, what a week it's been since little Jacob arrived! Natalie loves him and being a big sister. I forgot just how little and sleepy newborns are. And boy, does Natalie look B-I-G! She had a kid head and kid legs. No more baby left in her! We've been staying home as much as we can, although we did make the trip home to be there for my Grandpa's funeral. Other than that we're trying to find a routine and make sure the kids both get some time to themselves with us. Unfortunately Natalie has been fighting naps since about a week or two before Jacob was born. We are going to try giving her stickers for every nap, and after a certain number of stickers we're going to take her to pick a toy at the store.

We aren't going to let Halloween pass us by - we went to a party today with some of the mom's I've met. Natalie had a great time trick or treating, and Jacob just slept. And ate. And slept some more. I think we are going to try to go downtown tonight. You can walk through the stores and they pass out candy for the kids. Tomorrow there are a few churches and carnivals around town too.

Who Do We Look Like?

Natalie, Jacob and me in the same outfit. I was 7 lb 10 oz, Natalie was 8 lb 2 oz, and Jacob was 7 lb 8 oz. Any resemblance?

Jacob's Story

Ryan and I woke up and got to the hospital about 6am on Wednesday the 21st. Around 6:30 or so, my doctor broke my water. Around 8 am, nothing had happened so we were allowed to walk for about 20 minutes, then come back to be monitored for 20 minutes. Still nothing was taking place, but my parents and Ryan's dad came up with Natalie. We visited for a bit and then I took another walk. I only got about a lap or so in before I started getting pretty painful contractions. We toughed them out for awhile and the nurse said I wasn't really changing at all and might have to start pitocin. Mind over matter must work, because the contractions kept coming and I asked to be checked again and to get the epidural. It was around 10:15 and I think I was 5 centimeters. Well around 12:15 and lots of yelling later, I got the epidural and was at a 7. By 1, it was 9, and at 1:36 I was a 10. By the time the nurse got the bed ready and the doctor arrived, Jacob was born easily at 1:54 pm.

His cord was up over his shoulder, down his back, and wrapped around his right leg, then his left, then his right again! Ryan said it looked like a pretzel, but I didn't really get a chance to see it. He was healthy and happy so that's all that counts. No birthmarks, no conehead, everything was great. I felt much better this time. I leared that epidurals usually go in your vertebrae at an upward angle, but my vertebra only needed to go straight in and that's how I ended up with the headache last time. I did have a lot of tailbone pain trying to sit and stand so I got an x-ray yesterday and it's not broken again like last time, in fact it might actually have been pressured into a more normal position. So it's probably sore now just from being bumped around and laid on in the bed. I am so thrilled that I might recover much faster this time!

Jacob had his circumcision today. They didn't numb or do a pain block, nor does he get any Tylenol. Poor little man. It looks really painful, but the nurses say it's healing up so far and the worst part is over for him.

His sister is in love with him and oh so proud. She sang him Happy Birthday in the hospital and everyone started crying. Anytime she sings he just stares at her. She's going to be a great helper for him!

In other news, Ryan drove my mom to meet my dad to go see my grandpa in the ICU. He had a fall yesterday and has some bleeding in the brain. Please pray for him and hopefully I can update soon.

Jacob Ryan Windle

Since the WIFI only works in the lower level of the hospital, it has been requested that I take the computer to the cafeteria and post of Jacob's arrival. He was born October 21st, at 1:54 pm.

WEIGHING IN AT 7 LBS 8 OZ....STANDING 19" TALL...THE NEWEST CAGE FIGHTER TO THE WINDLE CLAN....JACOB "THE LITTLE MAN" WIIIINNNNNNDLE!!!!

Here's the challenger in his pre-fight sweats.


Preparing for his bout with his fighting gloves on.


Posing at the pre-fight press conference with the current Super-Lightweight Champion, Natalie "The Big Sister" Windle.


Pictured here with long standing manager of the Windle clan, life trainer, medic, and cornerwoman, Kimberlie "The Strong Mom" Windle.


Not yet pictured is trainer, fight coordinator and referee Ryan "The Big Bad Dad". It has been difficult to gain pictures as a multitude of paparazzi have been in and out of the locker room and not all cameras have been confiscated.

More to follow as life unfolds. We're very thankful to have him here and everyone who has and will touch his life.

Tomorrow, Tomorrow

I'll have 2 kids tomorrow, it's only a day away (hopefully, if it works before 11:59pm)!

I'm still a little frustrated that I was not induced on Monday when I was having contractions 2-3 minutes apart for 3+ hours. Now I have nothing...but maybe that will change by the morning.

My parents and Ryan's dad are here waiting and passing the time. They will also be helping take care of the Big Sister and dog. Everyone is ready to sing Happy Birthday to Jacob.

I just hope I can sleep well. I wanted a suprised arrival this time, but I'll be setting an alarm and getting to the hospital at 6am it looks like as of now. Ryan will be in charge of uploading pics, but I'll be updating Facebook as much as I can :-)

Early Labor

I went to the hospital this am with frequent contractions. After a few exams and an hour to walk I didn't make any change so they sent me home. I have been told to rest and eat light meals, and come back when they are strong enough that I have to stop walking or talking! Maybe he'll still make it out before Wednesday's induction.

Date Night

Ryan and I went out with the Girlfriend's group here tonight. We had a great time chatting with the other mom's and dad's. We ate a lot of spicy mexican, and Jacob is now allowed to be born! Here's a picture of our last night out as a couple before Jacob comes (and a belly shot).


Natalie attended babysitting at the church while we were out, and she had fun too. She said there was no boys and she didn't hit or bite anyone...that's my girl?? She had a full day with a playdate and a night out with other kiddos. She's a little desperate for friends though, she comes on a little strong!

We Have A Date!

If he doesn't make a surprise appearance, I'll be at the hospital at 6am next Wednesday. That's a day before my due date! The end is near!

Random Happenings

Well tomorrow is my 39 week appointment at 11:30. Still no Jacob, though things are getting checked off my list like crazy of things I wanted done before he got here!

I completed a pile of sewing projects, and changed my blog around a little big (kmaedesigns.blogspot.com) to make it a little easier to access. Let me know if you think it is!

I've been running errands like trying to consolidate our bank accounts to local banks. I've also been setting up bill pays, organizing photos on the computer, and other 'office' tasks around the house.

My mom is done catsitting and her neighbor is home to dogsit, so they approve the time to have a baby is here as well! We also made it to STL the last 2 weekends for a shower/bachlorette party and a wedding reception.

Minus some minor issues Ryan is repairing with leaking in the basement, the house is painted, unpacked, and very liveable. We've also started doing some winterizing projects inside and out. Here's an album I set up of before and after shots together...http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=114961&id=501333621&l=84cc36fc60

Natalie enjoyed all the time with family and friends. She's in a new stage of rhyming EVERYTHING. Bunny Wunny, Daddy Waddy, Drakey Wakey...sounds cute...for the first 5 minutes. She's also able to spell and read several 3 letter words and loves playing with her fridge magnets. Next week starts library story time on Monday and Thursday. We do a park playgroup on Wednesday and dance class Monday night. So she's starting to meet and friend other kiddos!

Look for more news soon!

38 1/2 Weeks

Here's an updated belly pic from the weekend wedding!
Also, Lynn, Susan and I for our last group shot before any of the babies arrive!
Ryan and Sam in their uniforms for the first together!

38 Weeks

Look for an update this afternoon - I have an appointment at 11:15! I am hoping I've made some more progress and get some exciting news. We shall see.

I also need to see if I am allowed to travel for a wedding this weekend or if i need to stay put. Last weekend I had a hard time relaxing/enjoying myself because I was so worried about having to maybe deliver a baby 3 hours from home. I have a dr/hospital up there already...but I'd hate to end up with a c-section and then have to stay for a couple of weeks before I felt like making a long trek in the car. Though friends and family would be excited to have the new baby close!

Not too much going on here. Ryan has some training the next 2 weeks so he's pretty much on a laid back routine, so it would be a good time for J to make his arrival. I've gotten the sewing and house projects complete that I wanted to before I have a break to enjoy my newborn. Bags are packed, car seat is loaded. Come on baby!

**Ok** No change this week. He actually said I was dilated less, or close to what I was last week. And the effacement didn't change. He said he might be a little lower. And he said it would be fine to go out of town and he'll see me in another week. Maybe that cursed me so I'll have him early since he told me he won't come anytime soon.

37 Weeks

We had the appointment today in the midst of all our unpacking and decorating. We are so happy the truck came on Monday and we were able to get unloaded, unpacked, and settled before Jacob! There are a million pics on Facebook if you aren't tired of them yet.

The doctor said Jacob was doing well with a heart rate of 150. I went from 1cm to 2cm, and from 20% to 50%. Looks like he won't be as late as Natalie!

Getting Ready For Fall

Wandering through Walmart today we decided to grab a pumpkin for Natalie to paint. We'll carve some later, but we've been bored with Ryan working 4-midnight so I thought it would give us something fun to do. I couldn't resist taking some cute pictures in our new yard as well.



When the Talley's and Binning's come tomrorow, we have another cute craft for the kids and one for them mom's. Look for more pics then!

Doctor Appointment

Natalie is getting used to these frequent doctor visits. We came home and all she has wanted to do is play with her baby doll and doctor kit.

Baby Jacob's heartbeat was 130 and he is in the right position for delivery. Things are starting to progress towards labor, which is exciting and scary. The office faxed all my papers over to the hospital so they will have them when I deliver. They also gave me copies to carry with me in case I deliver while out of town.

I just realized that when we travel the next few weekends I'll have to have the car seat and hospital bag just in case!

One month!

Or 5 weeks at the most. Jacob is due October 22nd, so September 22nd makes it seem like it's getting close!! I bought bottles yesterday, since I returned all mine with the BPA information last year. I did find the exact same style, just BPA Free so I was happy to get those. Now I need some pacis, as most of mine are PINK and somehow I don't think Ryan will go for that. My mom got me a matching pj set for Jacob and I in the hospital, it's blue/white striped and so cute!

Natalie and I spent my birthday at the outlets with Oma, and aunt and uncle, and grandpa and Mary. We had fun shopping, checking out the Lake of the Ozarks, and eating at 'bagel muffin' (Panera). Natalie got some overalls, a long sleeve shirt, tights, socks, and an umbrella (her favorite part). I picked up a few shirts for Jacob and a dress for Natalie and jeans for Ryan. I'll go back in the spring when I know what my size is. I'm afraid to buy now and then be over the return timeframe!My mom brought cake which we had yesterday at lunch. We went to 'rice and beans" for dinner last night and Natalie told the waiter it was mommy's birthday so we had fried ice cream. She also sang me Happy Birthday in the loudest voice humanly possible so everyone was looking. And at the outlets today my mom said we were going to "Kid and Baby Gap", and Natalie said "Let's go to Kid and Baby Crap". Ooops.

Ryan's mom knitted Natalie this cute sweater, and a blanket and cocoon for Jacob. We were excited to get a package in the mail after such a fun day shopping. You can see my earrings Ryan was sweet enough to pick out for me as well.




36 week appointment is tomorrow, yay. Once a week, so not many left. I think I'm getting the flu shot too (regular not swine, I'm not sure about that one). Ryan will be able to go with me because he's working 4-11 the next week for a 7% pay increase, woo hoo! Plus he'll be around during the day for when the truck comes!

Birthday Reflections

I'm posting this early because I hope that on my birthday, I am very busy unpacking and organizing my household goods!

This year I turn 28. I guess I'm getting old, because I keep forgetting that my birthday is even coming. It's now only 4 days away. Not that long ago I would have been counting down from the beginning of September. But the move, the pregnancy, the house, and life have just kept me from thinking about me and my birthday!

I've had a lot of whiny blogs and updates lately. But as I think about my birthday, and my age, I realize how lucky I am. I have a wonderful husband who puts up with me and my work-a-holic, nesting induced (maybe?) behavior. I have an amazing 2 1/2 year old healthy and smart little girl. On my birthday, I will be a month away from my son's due date, who is healthy and strong judging by the way he moves around my belly. We have a dog who is happily living outside the house during the day, which really cuts down on my cleaning. We have two new-enough cars that run well and look nice. We have a house that is perfect for us and full of potential for our future. Ryan has a wonderful job, with good pay, good benefits, and great hours for being able to spend time with our family. Our 'old' friends are coming to celebrate my birthday and our house next weekend. Both of our families are a lot closer than they were before. We have family and friends who have been generous with time, money and things for our home.

No wonder I'm not that excited for my birthday, I already have everything I could want or need, (within reason ha ha, I'd still take a million dollars or a Hawaiian vacation)!

So I'm happy to be turning 28, happy with my life. See you on the other side of the pile of boxes!

*BLAH - just found out we are LAST to get our stuff, so the 28th it is! Could have blogged on my birthday lol*

35 Weeks

Jacob measured much better today! Heart rate in the 150;s and moving like a wild man! He measured right at 35cm which is dead on. I will be getting a flu shot at the next appointment, as well as starting my once a week visits! Time is winding down. I've been really nauseaous lately, which the doctor said is probably from reflux/heartburn from where Jacob is sitting. I also asked him about what to do if I get contractions/broken water since I had to be induced with Natalie. He just said go to the hospital and they will take care of calling the doctor.

Natalie had fun at the indoor playdate today - they had several tunnels, a bounce house, probably 20 ride on toys, climbers, and slides. It will be so fun this fall and winter to socialize with mommies and kids there.

Our belongings were released from storage today, and I called to check on a more approximate date than "on or before the 28th". They called the carrier and the driver is going to do his best to get it here by the middle of NEXT WEEK!!! Please pray for us!!!

Natalie's A Dancer

We took Natalie to dance tonight! I even painted her nails light pink to match. Katie, my friend who teaches ballet in Virginia taught me how to do a bun. Here she is all dolled up! She loved it! There is only one other little girl in her class right now, which is probably perfect for all 2 year olds. They only allow 6 at the max. They did scooters, happy/sad feet (point and flex), hands on hips while jumping, tunnels, and a lot of cute songs with actions. First, she saw the guy from registration and ran up to him to tel him her owie was all gone. I cant' believe she remembered telling him the story a few weeks ago! Then she found the teacher and grabbed her hand and tried to pull her in the room. There was no looking back for me for sure! She spent the whole 30 minutes listening and busy! I am so proud of her for being outgoing and following directions so well. Here is another pic and video (maybe?). If not, it's on facebook.

A GREAT mail day!

I love getting mail! Some days, it's bills, but today was FUN!

First, my friend Rachelle from VA sent me a 10 off 50 at Lowe's and a 25 off of $250! YAY. We are there so much it will be awesome!

Then, I got a personalized door mat from my friend Kelly (The Marderosian's). It was so sweet and I love the colors and our names on it!


FINALLY, although this should have it's OWN post...I am SO proud of Ryan. His ASSOCIATE'S DEGREE came in the mail!!! If you look at the transcript, it says Associate's Degree Awarded. I know it hasnt' been easy with a wife, a daughter, a dog, and one on the way, but you did it. I love you!

34 1/2 Weeks

Forgot to add a pic, so I took one tonight. Ignore my messy hair, I am overdue for a haircut and can't decide where to try! I go to an appointment this Wednesday, then I think I start going weekly! Yikes, Jacob is coming soon!




On the house front, our stuff is being picked up on Sept 16th, and will be here on or before the 28th of September. Looks like it will beat Jacob here, yay! I would like to get the last 3 bedrooms painted before we move the furniture in. I finished the master bedroom this weekend. All the trim was painted white, with a chocolate accent wall and tan everywhere else. The only thing I did not paint was the doors because we plan on replacing them with 6 panel soon.





Ryan survived his first weekend of drill, or should I say I survived it? Now 5 days of work and he'll have made it through 12 days of work (well 11 since he was off for Labor Day). And this week is pretty busy...Natalie starts dance and a Tiny Tots Park Playgroup. We have a Parents As Teachers event one evening, a homeowner's meeting, and Ryan has dinner with his Chief! Not to mention library playgroup and a trip for me to KC for Panera, Target, and Hilary! The only piece waiting to fall into place is a paycheck for all this hard work!