Nearly 20 Weeks - Ultrasound

The Names

We have made some decisions on names- and I feel obliged to create a happy post to secure the shred of sanity and joy I'm hanging too. We've been having a difficult two weeks or so with our foster child and I need to remind myself of the happy arrival we have coming before the end of the year. We have still decided to let this child's gender be a surprise- as it will probably be our last opportunity. The names we have chosen are as follows:

Cassandra Joan or Abigail Joan

Andrew Joshua or Calvin Jeffrey

"Joan" is not set in stone yet, and may be substituted with Rose, but we love both names and they are both for my grandma's- whose birthdays are days apart. Beverley Joan was born Nov. 30th and she died in 2000. Rosemary was born Dec 4th. The baby is due on Dec. 6th- and I'm holding steady for early babies.
So, say what you will. I'd actually love to hear your opinions- good and bad. Trust me, you won't hurt my feelings. I've already taken a little flack and I'm ready for it. So, CJ or AJ- which would you pick?

Random Photo

This is just a random photo from my phone. Autumn was very afraid to try to slide down the pole at the playground. After watching Billy a few times, she was ready to give it a try. This is her first successful go at it. She was so proud of herself. She has also learned how to do the monkey bars since she came to stay with us. It's so exciting to see her grow and learn!

Autumn's Preschool Graduation

Success!
Teacher Ms. Leila

Performing

Another performing shot

walking in

The pictures do not do this special event justice. She was so tickled to be wearing her dress and stockings to school. She wanted her hair done just so. Autumn was so excited and performed so well. I wish we would have taken some video. The songs, dance and recitations were darling. Autumn announced that she wants to be a chef when she grows up during her walk across the stage. She was so proud of herself. Carl took off work and brought her flowers- Autumn was pleased at this small surprise.

Camping over Memorial Day Weekend

I just managed to pull these pictures off my phone, so I thought I'd share them. This is our camping trip from over Memorial Day weekend. We had so much fun. We explored a cave, watched the trout spawning, we hiked the Backbone- 2 miles, rowed a boat, fished, everything. It was Autumn's first time. Such a good time. Wish the pictures were better.

Today's Doctor Appointment

I was surprised today at the doctor to find that I have only gained 2 lbs in the past 4 weeks. I'm also measuring at 18 weeks and the doctor says I should be 17 weeks tomorrow by his calculation. Baby was moving all over the place and finding a heartbeat was a real challenge. Found one and it was about 150- (not sure of the measurement, but number is right). As for the existing hemmorage, doc says we'll wait until 6/16 for full ultrasound to check it out. He says that it's more common than most people think and will usually go away without any trouble by 20 weeks. However, if it comes up on the ultrasound in 3 weeks it could be more serious. So, that's what I know. Baby's doing well. Hopefully the hemmorage will make itself scarce so we have no further worries.

Our Texas Vacation- Can't wait to return

We had such a good time on our Texas vacation, as I'm sure you can gather from the pictures. We are all so grateful to my dad and Gail for all they did to make our stay fun and eventful. The kids loved going swimming over and over again at the hotel pool. They think Grandpa Chuck's dog Buddy is such a winner. I wish our dog Skittles could have met him and learned to play from him. He is such a good boy. We can't wait to visit again soon. Hopefully we'll have time to fish and garage sale as the rain ruined our chance of getting those things done. I've never had rain interrupt my Texas vacation before- that was shocking. But we got lots of time to play on the computers and get all the necessary things accomplished. Thanks for a great trip Dad! I love my new maternity clothes Gail. It was great to meet you Billy and Candace. Good luck with the new baby. See you all again real soon!