5 months!

As I am writing this, I'm feeling guilty about not posting for over a month. I'm not very crafty, so this is Anniston's scrapbook for the most part- therefore, I need to keep it up to date.. In the subject line, I wrote 5 months and my child is six months next week...but unlike pregnancy (in which most women round up) I will just continue to say five months! A few of the highlights of our fun-filled ever changing fifth month included the most precious baby ever in a chicken costume. In addition, I did snap a picture from Anniston's favorite person these days...(the sweet gift from above who keeps my precious while I work. This month we started solids, Anniston started rolling over constantly, she scoots on the hardwood (very interesting to see) and has nearly mastered sitting up. It's amazing how she changes daily. My very favorite is watching she and her daddy as they growl at each other! very funny...how this began - heaven only knows. All I know, is they love to mimic each other! I'm so excited for the holidays and can't wait to post more pics.

Wow! What a difference 4 months makes!

I can't believe how Anniston's changed in just 4 months!

Anniston Ray is 4 months today!

Here's a few pics from the weekend. We celebrated Anna Kate's (niece) 4 year old birthday and Anniston Ray is 4 months today:) Both are shocking to me!

Wait a minute...time is flying so fast

Wait a minute...I just feel like I had a baby and now she's laughing at me...There's nothing like getting a voicemail at work of Anniston "belly laughing." I miss her so much during the day, but that just makes it all worth while! I can't believe that next week she will be 4 months! Crazy! I remember being pregnant and wanting the time to pass...for instance, if I was 38 1/2 weeks ...In my mind I would just say 39, but now I find myself wanting to say she's just four weeks not four months! It's so funny how your prayers change too. I pray for that child all day long and sometimes way into the night. Although Anniston started smiling before we went to Savannah on the 4th of July, the laughing is sooo much better. Besides the sweet laughter, her newest thing is to scoot all over the baby bed...So long beautiful specialty made bumper pads...By the way, if you are reading this and your preggo...don't buy them! But if you're like me..I didn't listen and got them anyway. This month has been filled with changes, but we are so thankful that though God's grace we are all doing good. But like most first time parents- we can still use your prayers.

1st day of Daycare

Well it finally came...After dreading it all summer, I had to leave my precious baby girl with a stranger in a strange place. Ok...now Ms. Beth has been very sweet and I do know another lady at the daycare, but for all intents and purposes it felt foreign to me. I prayed the whole drive over and didn't talk on my phone on Wednesday...those of you who know me know that's unusual. First day wasn't the best, but the second day was better. I'm learning. I laugh sometimes thinking about the looks first time mom's get. For instance, when you go to the pediatrician and forget to bring the bag that the poo poo diaper goes in. I had no idea that the doctor's office preferred not to dispose of them. Overall, this has been such a wonderful experience. I'm sure there will be days that I will feel guilty for not being home with my baby, but there's nothing like that feeling when I'm on my way to pick her up. I was practically running to get her this week. Derrick packed her bottles and her little bag...it was so precious. He likes to pack up her things (think he's good it packing ...maybe he get's that from the military). I'm sure I will have many more posts about daycare. Here's a cute pic from the first day.

So thankful for Eternal Life!

I must say the past couple of weeks have been very sad. With a good friend's mother passing from cancer, my aunt passing at 52, and a friend from high school's father going on to be with the Lord...I'm ready for some happier times. Oh and by the way, did I mention I start back to work this upcoming week (which I'm excited about in many ways) but dread leaving my little one. Needless to say, our family definitely appreciates any prayers sent our way. I'm just so thankful for eternal life and the fact that God forgives our sins. The only comfort for so many during difficult times of loss is knowing that one day we will see our loved ones again!

Maternity leave coming to an end is definitely bitter sweet. I am so thankful to have had these first three months at home with her. I feel like it has flown by! I hope Monday and Tuesday just stand still! She now seems to have conversations with us (I know it's baby talk) but of course we pretend like we know what she's saying! I think Derrick has enjoyed us being home as well. I know this will be an adjustment, but like everything else in life...we will just be prayful and press on. Here's a few more pics of this past month.

Brady Adjusting

As some of you know, for the past five years Brady has been our only child. I had Brady when I first moved to Muscle Shoals alone and he is very spoiled. He doesn't seem to mind Anniston, but he's not that interested in her now. We've noticed that he always looks sad or jealous. His new favorite thing to do is walk under her mobile and no lie ...somehow he turns it on! I know, smart dog, right? Here a few shots and a couple of Anniston on her 2 month birthday:)

Getting shots:(

Anniston had to go for her 2 month check up and of course received multiple vaccinations. She got a shot in both legs and her bottom...I had to let Derrick hold her because I couldn't watch. She's fine, but it was the first time I had ever seen those kind of tears:( Don't look forward to going back for more. On a better note she weighed 10lbs 14ounces and was 23in. long. Doctor says she's doing great. Except for last night, because she was fussy...Anniston loves her bath time. Here's a few pics of her favorite time of the day.

2 months already!

Anniston will be two months old on Monday..I can't believe it! Her toothless wide grins come so often now and she seems the most content when we take her outside. The past few nights she has been sleeping from 8-12 and then until around 4...so the sleep deprivation seems somewhat better. I return to work August 18th...so I plan on cherishing every moment until then. Here's a few pics from playing dress up this week.

The first 6 weeks!

I can't believe Anniston is already six weeks old and my maternity leave is more than half over. I'm so blessed to have this time with her, but it is flying by. Her smile is getting bigger and bigger..I just love it. In case I forget to get this in the baby book ...I have one funny. Last night, it was 2a.m. and we were exhausted. I nursed her and then Derrick had her and she latched on to him with all her might. We just busted out laughing. I can't wait to tell her when she's older. She is changing so fast...today I was about to go crazy - I couldn't figure out why she was still crying and then I sat her up in the recliner and stood in front of her and she just laughed at me. I'm glad she thinks I'm funny because sometimes I feel like I'm going nuts. It did make my day!

A Visit from Curt & Bella

Today...Anna, Carrie Beth, Bella, and Curt came to visit! We were so excited to see them. Here's a few pics from the visit ...wish I would've taken more. It means so much to see girlfriends- especially when you've been in the house too long!

First Vacation with Anniston

I can't believe that tomorrow Anniston will be six months old already! Everyday she seems to do something new.. She is now so alert and even smiling at us (it's the most precious smile I've ever seen)! Her little face is filling out and she is now in 0-3 month clothes. I was so sad to see her new newborn diapers go. Before I know it, I will be back to work and she will be holding her head up:( Sometimes I just want time to stand still. Luckily, we were able to take her on our first family vacation this past week. Yes, we took a five week old on vacation, but she did great! We traveled to Savannah, Georgia for the holiday and had a great time. I can't wait until she gets older and I'm able to show her the pictures from Savannah. A good friend of mine reminded me today that we are to thank God in everything. It made me think more about those long nights and all the wishing I've been doing. We constantly say we want her to sleep through the night and don't get me wrong ...I do look forward to that. Today, I did decide to thank God for those precious middle of the night smiles more and thank him for giving us such a special child on loan. Here's a few pics from our trip!

Anniston's first trip to Church

After much preparation, we finally managed to get Anniston to Church this morning for the first time. It was good to see everyone again, and she actually made it okay. I thought she looked beautiful! I think she actually enjoyed the music. On a funny note, after returning home ...Derrick was rocking her and decided to sing a song.. I walked in to him singing ...Sweet Caroline. Thought that was cute.

Anniston's First Month!

I can't believe it's been a month already! Here's a few pics of Anniston's first stroll, first bath, first time under her new toy, etc.

Happy Birthday Anniston Ray!

On May 26th, Anniston Ray Tice finally came! She weighed 7lbs and 6ounces and was 19inches long. Of course, we think she's absolutely perfect! After 26 hours at the hospital, we were so exhausted. Her first pics are posted on Huntsville Hospital's website under Baby photos. The past two weeks seem like a blur for the most part, but fortunately we've had lots of family and visitors. As Derrick says, there's no way you can't believe in God after watching the birth of your child.

Hospital Stay..Getting Anxious!

Wow! I can't believe that it's here! Anniston will most likely be born tomorrow! As I lay here in the hospital bed, I think about the past ten months. God has blessed us so much. I remember a time when I was unsure if we would even have a baby. We are so excited as to what lies ahead. To think, the next time I post...She should be here!!! I can't believe we will be parents. As Derrick sits here beside me, I must say I'm also thankful for a wonderful husband. I realize I may be a bit emotional today, but who wouldn't??? To all of you who are lifting all three of us up in prayer tonight- Thank you. I better go...Dilated to three and they've just started my IV. Maybe this will be shorter than anticipated!

39 Weeks & Counting

I have all new respect for all the women out there who carried their child way too long! I've heard people tell me before...I didn't have my baby until 41 weeks and I never gave it much thought. I will from now on! Sorry mom- I know you were 42 weeks. I've told God that I am ready when he is, but my patience is definitely running thin. I did get to see my sweet child on the ultrasound today and she looked as if she didn't have room to budge:( Her estimated weight is now 7lbs 8ounces. I guess she's just not ready to enter the world. I know God is preparing me for no sleep because I haven't gotten two consecutive hours this entire week. Enough complaining...but I'm super uncomfortable. Thanks to everyone for your prayers. Anna Kate, my niece, called me last night and said, "Risa is that baby ever coming out?" I just had to laugh at that point...because some days I'm not so sure myself.

Making progress- 38 weeks!

Last night I was about to go to bed when I started feeling really bad...I had pain, but it was more like consistent pressure. Thankfully, my doctor's appointment was today and he said I was making progress! I am 50% effaced and sorry to be so graphic, but he could tell she was head down and much lower than my last visit. Another words, I have hope it won't be long! While the appointment was exciting...of course there was drama. The doctor asked me to lay on my back for 40 minutes for fetal heart monitoring. That didn't go well. I began to faint- who at 38 weeks pregnant can stay on their back that long with no meds anyway?? Of course, I recovered and all is well. I celebrated by treating myself to a lengthy hair appointment. lol. The tour at our last birthing class yesterday was lots of fun! It seemed so real for both of us...especially looking at the newborns and knowing that Anniston will be there in days! Hopefully, I will be posting pics of our new addition very soon!

Maternity Leave! Happy Mother's Day!

Let me begin by saying how excited I am about maternity leave. I truly love my career, but this is the first time since I graduated college in 2004 that I have been off work except for vacation. Of course, the first thing I wanted to do was finish Take Three by Karen Kingsbury...If you don't read her books, you're missing out! I've read 17 of her collection, but there's plenty I need to catch up on! I have so much I want to do while I'm off, but unfortunately I can't do that much. As most of you know, the last few weeks can be trying...I cannot get comfortable. I toss and turn and usually feel less exhausted if I just get out of bed..3am. it doesn't matter. With all that said, I'm just ready for her to be here. I know I won't be sleeping after either, but at least I will have her here! I will officially be 38 weeks on Tuesday. At my last appointment, her estimated weight was 6lbs 7ounces. I would love to have her this week...then maybe she would be around 7lbs to 71/2 lbs. I know God will have her here when she's ready (I just pray that's soon!) Someone told Derrick at Church this morning that if I don't drink anything...the dehydration sends you into labour everytime...so of course he know thinks I'm drinking too much water...lol.

Happy Mother's Day to my wonderful mom! I'm so thankful to have a mom who has instilled Christian values throughout the years and is always there for me! Thanks mom. I can't wait for you to meet Anniston soon! I did receive my first mother's day/mother's to be cards...They were so precious. To all my friends that are mom's or mother's to be ...Happy Mother's Day to you too! I have some updated preggo pics ..I plan to scan in later this week.

Who knows...maybe I will be posting baby pics this week!!! Please keep us in your prayers!

One more month!!!!

I am thrilled this is my last month until Anniston's arrival! The flip side is thinking that I could possibly carry her for another whole month- that seems like an eternity! Either way, we truly don't have long and the anticipation is driving me a little crazy. It doesn't help that the doctor tells me that she could be born at any time and would be fine...that doesn't give me much motivation. I'd rather him say that something else needs to develop so I'm more driven to keep her in longer- as if I have any control in the matter:) This was week #2 for our birthing classes and wow ...we were in for some educational surprises for sure! Our sweet teacher did notice Derrick's scared to death look on his face, but he was a trooper for sure. The best part is when we got the mats out- of course when I came back from the restroom my precious husband had our one pillow propped behind his back..This whole pregnancy thing must be tough on our husbands. LOL. Derrick did put the base of the car seat in the car already and he's encouraged me to pack a bag- so I know he's anxious too. Next week we will meet with our Pediatrician and Tuesday go for the 36 week appointment. As for me, I'm having major difficulty bending ...but other than that ...just pressing along. I'm praying constantly for a healthy baby and can't wait to see her sweet face.

34 Weeks and Birthing Classes!

We are getting closer and closer...yet it seems still so far away. I'm so excited about Anniston's arrival and we both think the reality is starting to set in. As I look around my great room, I see a stroller, pack-and-play, cradle 'n swing, and infant carrier and she's not even here yet! Yesterday, I had two different people tell me they were expecting a girl and then surprise it was a boy. Wow, if God changes his mind on this...someone has a lot of pink to get rid of! lol!

This has been such an exciting month. Jason and Tiffany got married last weekend and I'm so glad that we were able to make it ....as my swelling has increased...I was a little concerned. It was a beautiful wedding! Bella turns 2 this month! I can't believe it! Carrie said Curt was crawling- I can't wait to see! My friends from Church gave me a baby shower and I found out that two of my friends are expecting! God is so good.

Okay, for the funny part...We started birthing classes. I took the breastfeeding class on my own and realized how much I didn't know. It was 2 1/2 hours long and so helpful. Derrick did agree to do birthing classes as long as they didn't fall on Monday night softball games...lol. So last night we were off to our first of a five week Tuesday night session. Yes, five weeks! Anniston may be here before we even finish! I just wish that I had a video camera on Derrick the entire time. Of course, they show videos and give lots of useful information and talk about breathing etc. I'm not sure if he was more scared or me! My favorite Derrick quote was "If you have a choice between riding a pony or driving a car...what crazy person would rather ride a pony?" Obviously, he was referring to the planned natural birth verses meds. At some point, another man in our class asked if he could help the doctor deliver the baby and how to make certain that was in he and his wife's birth plan. I wish you could have seen the look on my husband's face! Overall, we had a great time. We go for our 35th week appointment next Tuesday and think they may do an ultrasound. Thanks for all your thoughts and prayers during this special time.

Hackleburg Baby Shower!

Our baby shower in Hackleburg was so much fun. Thank you to all my friends and family who helped host it!!! Anniston received so many precious things and we are so thankful! I am 32 weeks and have another check up tomorrow... I can't imagine getting any larger at this point, but I'm scared that I will. My baby belly gets in the way. I was loading the dishwasher a few minutes ago, and when I leaned over it pushed me back up! Oh my, this is getting out of control. After my doctor's appointment last week, I have felt much better. I go back tomorrow and hopefully the whole anemia thing has gotten better. We are getting so ready for her to be here. Derrick has put together the pack and play and swing and her nursery is finally looking like a nursery! She still isn't very active, but I do feel her occassionally. I'm starting to get curious about the whole birthing thing. I really think I've blocked it out of my mind to ease my nerves, but I'm definitely curious. Please pray for us...as I hear daily...our lives are about to change! I just pray that she is growing and getting more healthy everyday.

Derrick's Birthday & Nine More Weeks

I'll start with the good- Happy Birthday to Derrick! We celebrated his birthday over the weekend! It was bitter sweet Friday night because we were talking birthdays and goodbyes with Nick leaving for training. Bella & Anna Kate came along ...our two precious nieces ...so that was fun! On Saturday morning, we had a birthday pancake breakfast and it was so sweet. We took Anna Kate for breakfast in town and she dressed as a princess (wore the crown, earrings, rings, necklace...the whole nine yards!) Too cute! Overall, I think Derrick enjoyed his birthday and ice cream cake (yes Bruster's made his cake- not me).

As for the pregnancy, I guess I couldn't stay feeling good for long. I have some major swelling going on in my hands and feet and I cannot sleep- ugh! I know she'll be worth the pain, but this is definitely not fun. Things are really strange..My BP has dropped significantly and oddly enough so has my temp...I guess it's better for it to be low than high. At church this morning, I thought I was about to faint so I'm thinking possible anemia again...who knows. I'm counting down the days! I'm so excited for next Sunday...my family and friends are hosting the Hackleburg shower...I can't wait! Also, Anniston is finally moving around more!

First Baby Shower!!!

My sweet friends...Amanda, Tiffany, and Tracy had us a baby shower for my friends and co-workers in Madison/Birmingham this weekend. It was so much fun! Anniston is already so loved. She is ready to go on her first boating trip with her adorable new swimsuits! I didn't even know they made clothes this cute for a baby... She was showered with some really great gifts. I am posting a few pics from Saturday!

As for the doctor visit update, we went back on Friday and she is coming right along. I'm now on two week visits and Tuesday I'll be 30 weeks! My swelling has increased, and the doctor says I have to put my feet up more. That's somewhat difficult to do when I'm always running around, but I plan to start trying or I may have to go up another shoe size!

4D Ultrasound!

What an exciting morning! Anniston is doing great! She's so little! We were able to get a great video and some great pictures. Derrick & my mom went along for the big event. We finally found out why she doesn't kick me very hard yet....one she's so small, but the tech said I have an anterior placenta - basically she's hiding out underneath the placenta and with some babies it's opposite so you can feel them more. The sweetest thing happened (and I could feel it too) ...she was about to wrap up our session when Anniston got the hiccups. It looked kind of painful, but it was still sweet. We just stared at the screen! What a blessing- to watch your baby on the screen for over 30 minutes! Today, her heartbeat was 149. I posted a couple of pics for everyone to enjoy. She's still playing with her feet! How sweet!

It's March..and you should be here in May!!

I woke up this morning (after sleeping for at least a 4 hour stretch) and was like OH WOW it's March and we will have you in May! After not finishing my test last night until 11:58 - due by 12 (nothing like procrastination) ...I didn't think I would be excited this morning...but actually thinking about you getting here helped me get through the day. This was a big weekend. We got your baby bed and Derrick put it up yesterday. It's so beautiful... and he hung window treatments in your room. It's actually beginning to look like a nursery! When I get the bedding..I will post pictures. I can already tell the downside to this month is going to be work clothes. I've just about acquired a decent amount of dress clothes for work and I go to get ready today and nothing seems to fit all over again. The upside is your 4D is Wednesday...I can't wait! Just to see you again..will be so exciting. I just pray that you are healthy and growing like expected. Will update after appointment this week. 12 Weeks to go!

Happy Valentine's Day!

What a cold week...brrrr. Snow comes as often as rain these days. I'm so ready for Spring! Anniston now has bedding ordered. I'm so excited- one more thing off the list. I will post a picture ...it's adorable! Between the cold and being pregnant, we've been catching lots of movies. Dear John and Valentine's Day are great chick flicks. Derrick is showing his romantic side this weekend and planned a great date last night and I have my first pregnancy massage today! What a great weekend:) Later I will hopefully post some pics of Bella's visit today. Last night, I had a crazy dream (the first one about Anniston) ...she was here and everything was going great (although she was extremely small) and then I forgot and left her somewhere. Of course I woke Derrick up and he said that I would never do that and I went back to sleep. I'm truly going crazy. lol. As for Anniston, she's getting bigger. I go to the doctor this week and can't wait to hear her little heartbeat again! My doctor's are beginning to notice the big belly...I get the most random comments. Men just have so much trouble with their words! I get things like...You're looking great and a bit rounder....Do you have fluid retention- I think you're face is swollen? Do you miss working out? What's you're workout plan after the baby? I mean it's mostly in your belly...I guess. I should start a quote book! I'm so thankful for our Presidents...I couldn't be happier about being off work Monday!

Anniston, Happy Valentine's Day to you too! I know that you already are so loved! To my sweet husband (that occassionally reads your blog) Love you too! To my brother, Happy Birthday tomorrow!

Only 15 Weeks Left!

15 weeks left...it makes the wait seem less to say it that way:) We are already well into February...I can't believe it! The most recent Anniston news is that we went to babies 'r us for the very first time. It was overwhelming. I knew I had to eventually go in, but I was shocked to see so many things for a baby. Of course, I do realize we don't need all of that, but it didn't make the visit less shocking. We still don't have our crib in, but we do have a dresser/changing table that is adorable. Anniston, you have something in your nursery! I am starting to feel her a little more...which is so comforting. I kept Anna Kate Saturday and as always she is very concerned about how much longer Anniston has to stay in. She's also realized that Anniston doesn't have any toys or baby dolls yet. It's precious to hear her talk about the baby.

On a funny note, I walked outside this morning with Derrick for church and it was snowing a little. I couldn't believe it was snowing, because I felt like I was burning up! The joy of pregnancy I guess. My body is changing so fast. I'm always asking my sweet friends if this or that happened to them. It helps to know that others feel the same..I guess. As for you Anniston, we will fly again soon. As if you haven't traveled enough since September, we will now be going to New York in a few weeks. You're a little traveler already! I'm counting down the weeks to meet you and praying for a healthy baby girl! I all the sudden feel like we have quite a bit to do before you arrive, but I know that we will get there. Upcoming events include Valentine's Day, Dr.'s appointment - always great to hear that little heartbeat, and the 4D - the first week of March!

22 weeks already!

The past three weeks have flown by. You must be growing...because I know I am. We had a great doctor's appointment this week. They wouldn't let me see you for long, but they did quickly run the ultrasound machine over my tummy to ensure you are a little girl- There's no denying..You were in the perfect position. Thankfully, all the pink items will look great! Your little heartbeat was 160 this time. I just love you more and more everyday. We are in Dallas now for a meeting, and I wasn't crazy about the flight...but I did get some Babywise reading in:) I'm so excited about the 4D...I know it isn't until the first week of March, but I can't wait already. I am so thankful that you seem to be growing like expected. Derrick is already talking about building you a toy box...He's afraid Brady will tear up your toys I guess. I almost forgot...ROLL TIDE ROLL! We became National Champions since I was last on here. When I checked in my hotel today in Texas ...I wanted to say Roll Tide, but I was polite:) Also, Derrick put the most precious cradle together for our bedroom for you already. It's another reminder that you will be here soon! Can't wait for you to meet all your family and friends.

Happy New Year...Your Room is PINK!

Since I last wrote to you...much has gone on in your little soon to be nursery. I hate to embarass your wonderful daddy, but since he doesn't get on here near as much as I do...I have to anyway. Okay, so I found this cute little nursery online and in a store here in madison that used green and pink (the walls green). I thought that would be adorable, but after a few mishaps- your room is now a perfect pink! I know I should have started with that color, but then we wouldn't have the great story. So your daddy thought he would paint. I must admit he is very meticulous when it comes to painting and I knew he would do a great job. Unfortunately, right before I was about to tell him the green paint wasn't quite the color I wanted for your room... he happen to tip over the paint can and it spilled off the plastic onto the carpet. I couldn't believe my eyes! My friend Google helped us find a way to get all the paint out of carpet- a dish detergent mixture! Three hours later, I admitted the paint must be changed. It took three more trips to Lowe's (for primer, new paint, and plastic) and we now have a beautiful Pink room. Thank you Derrick. Anniston will love it...I just know it.

Well, it's back to work for me and I'm not ready. January is a busy month for us. I have two trips to Dallas...another to Jackson and Derrick has two guard weekends away. In the meantime, we have plenty to keep us busy at home. I must say Roll Tide Roll! I'm so excited for Thursday. In closing, Pastor Dusty spoke this morning on "Remembering." Focusing on God in everything we do can be challenging, but reflecting on the fact that he never forgets us makes it easier.