Mommy 5 Link-up #2

Hey there! Welcome to the Mommy 5 Link up! This is Sarah's and my second link up and we're so excited to have you today..

There are no rules or obligations for this Link up. Sarah and I only request that you link up the actual questions we ask and not just a random post or your blog. ;)

You don't have to follow us to join in on all the fun. If you wanna follow us that's great if not that's fine too! I think I can speak for Sarah on this as well. We don't want to be followed for the sake of a Link up lol. We only want to be followed if you want to read all of the awesome blogs posts we have to share! Plus we love making new friends!!

It would be great if you would spread the word to get more people on this. More the better I always say! :)
HAVE FUN!

My lovely preg friend Sarah came up with the question this week and the question is.....
What are 5 baby names you love?

1. Scarlett.. I honestly don't know why I love it. I guess it just sounds so lady like and proper ha! When I was younger I always wanted  it to be my name. I would love for our next daughter to be named Scarlett. But Leon likes "Ivory" Blah!!

2. Isaiah Lloyd. This name is a name that Leon and I both want to name one of our boys. The Lloyd part will be named after Our Pasor Joe Lloyd because He's such a Fatherly figure in both Leon's and my life. It would also be after my uncle Lloyd. He's always been like a Grandfather to me.

3. Malachi. Yes I'm the kinda girl who LOVES all of the unique Bible names. Some Bible names are just so strong and the meaning is so powerful. I can't help but to love them.

4. Tabitha. Tabitha in the Bible was a Prophetess. That may be why I love the name so much. I would totally name my daughter this..... But Leon says no. :(

5. Alana. I just love the name and meaning. Again I would totally name my baby girl this!!

Sooo... What are your top 5 baby names?? We'd love to hear from you!

And in case you need your day to be made I decided to post a little video that made mine. Here's proof that Babies are blessings. I just can't stop smiling at this girl!

-->

Waiting on a woman.

Today's the day! It's Evie's official due date eeek! I feel like this whole pregnancy has flew by. It doesn't feel that long ago when Leon and I found out that we were expecting our little princess. but don't get me wrong! I'm defiantly ready to not be pregnant. I'm ready to hold my sweet girl for the first time and kiss those little fingers and toes. I feel like Leon has been the more patient one about all this. This past week I have been checking and re-checking my bags, walking up and down the stairs and pretty much everything there is to do to get things started. And when I went to my Midwife on Wednesday I must admit I was a little disappointed when she said I wasn't dilated yet, but she did say that she was extremely low. Leon keeps reminding me that She'll come when shes ready and no sooner! Sigh... He's going to be such an understanding Father.. I think I still have work to do lol.

 

 

 

 

  I'll find myself a bench, if they've got any. I hope she takes her time, 'cause I don't mind
Waitin' on a woman.
Honey, take your time, cause I don't mind Waitin' on a woman... 
-Brad Paisley. Waiting on a woman.

Thoughts on labor and being a momma.

The other day I was asked if I was nervous about going into labor? I've never really thought about that question before. Am I nervous about going into labor? I'll have you guys know that  my pain tolerance isn't the highest. When I'm in pain you know without a doubt that I'm in pain just by looking at my facial expressions. So, you would think just the thought of going through what they call  "The most painful situation a women has ever been through"  would terrify me. But honestly it doesn't! I am at one hundred percent complete peace about going into labor. Do you know why? Because this is what I'm called to do.  Jesus has called me to be a mother. And not just any mother, but a mother to this child. He has called me to look after her, protect her, love her, to be a godly example of a mother to her and most importantly show and teach her the love of Christ, to know her identity in Him. I am called to bring this child into the world who is going to do amazing things for the Glory of God! And the best part is Jesus will be there with me all the way. Supporting me, loving me, and watching over me. So, if you ask me I have nothing to be nervous about. It's what I'm meant to do, it's my ministry, it's my calling.

Many thoughts have crossed my mind about being a mother. You would think after all those years of babysitting and taking care of my nieces and nephews would prepare me for this. I have not even held my daughter in my arms yet and I am already understanding the concept that mothers always say "You'll never know or understand until you have one of your own." I sometimes don't feel at all ready for this. But I know it's in God's perfect will and His perfect season. I know He's got a plan for this little girl. There has been many times during this pregnancy when I just didn't feel ready, didn't feel prepared. I just didn't feel qualified. But once again The Lord speaks to my heart with the perfect answer. "The called never come qualified, But I always qualify the called" I know on my own I am not and will never be qualified. But through Jesus. My Heavenly Father, The Great I am. I am qualified through Him and His perfect love for me.I know through Him I can do all things. And raising this Miracle will be for His glory alone!

Preparation for Labor:
Thanks to my dear blog friend Heather from  findingbeautyintheordinary I have been inspired in many ways when it comes to being prepared, and being a mother in general. Things she has learned before me because shes a few months ahead of the game since she had her precious daughter back in August. So, because of her posts I am fully prepared and packed for the medical center. She inspired the idea to make the doctors and nurses a goodie basket. I loved this idea because it shows your appreciation to them and I really want my Midwives to know they are appreciated. So, this is my gift basket to them.

 And I'm making sure to pack snacks and stuff too! We'll only be there for about four hours after we have her because I'm having her at a medical center but I wanted to make sure I was prepared!

 I think I may be prepared for a two week vacation... But who knows what to expect when your having a baby!

Come on baby girl, Momma's waiting for you!

Mommy date!

 So, today I went to my doctors appointment and was privileged to go with my mom. And shortly after to the best place to eat in the world!!! I honestly think I could eat Panera bread for the rest of my life and not get tired of it! (coming from a girl that used to work there) Anyways, everything is great! Evelynne is Birth ready and honestly so am I! I seriously thought she was going to make her grand arrival during Hurricane Sandy but, she remained put as she continued kicking my insides and putting pressure on my well, everywhere! I'm really hoping she comes Friday but we'll see. According to my Midwife She could come any day now.
 EEK!!! 

Random fact: Did you know a Midwife could be a guy as well?? I had no idea. I saw a dude Midwife today and was kinda surprised he was a Midwife. They should be called "Midhusbands" If you ask me. Just so people like me don't get confused. ;)

Dearest Evelynne,

I was informed yesterday that you are officially birth-ready and labor is welcome and normal at this point..... I just want to make sure you know that. Because I am so ready to meet you! They told me if I wanted to try and induce labor I could go for long walks, walk up and down the stairs and spending lots of time with Daddy intimately helps too!   I figured I will help you out a bit by doing these things. I have already went out of my way countless of times this morning to make trips up and down the stairs, been active, and maybe sometime this week have a date night with your daddy to get things moving (Wink Wink)  I feel like as each day comes I feel so much more connected with you then I did yesterday! I love spending time with you and I can't wait to hold you in my arms and experience all of your special "Firsts" I have all of our bags packed and I packed you two outfits because I haven't decided what I wanted you to go home in yet. And I have all of the numbers in my phone and a birth plan all written out. I honestly don't know what to expect with labor. I've had women say it was horrible, others say it's not as bad as other women make it out to be. But I know every labor is different. I know with God's help you and I got this! Until then I will continue to enjoy every moment  in spending time with you, reading to you, singing to you and praying for you. This is the only time when I will have you all to myself!                       
                                                                                 Love you, Love Mommy!

Ps.. Daddy says it will be great if you wanted to come this week for two reasons. 1. He'll have an excuse to get out of a stressful work week and 2. He'll have two beautiful ladies to come home too! Isn't he the sweetest! I'm telling you, You are going to have the best daddy. He loves you so much and I know you are going to have him wrapped around your finger! (Even though he won't admit it now)  Love you Princess!

Baby bag: babies r us.
Panda: My sister Suzy
Basinet, Changing table: Yardsale
E: Made by me.

I'm really taking time to enjoy this season.

I hope you are having a wonderful fall. I'm getting more and more excited as each day passes knowing I will be holding my little girl very soon! I just can't believe how fast the time went by. I feel like it was just yesterday when my husband and I found out we were blessed with our little miracle. I can't tell you how ready I am to meet her! There is a certain song that I listen to called "Little one" By Rebecca St James. It was actually written for the movie she was in called "Sarah's choice" About a young women who found out she was pregnant and considered an abortion. But God gave her visions of why that would be a horrible decision. I totally recommend it! It's actually one of my favorite movies. Anyways back to the song. It's one of those songs that make this pregger get emotional very quickly! I must admit this kinda feels so unreal. I don't think it has officially hit me that I will be holding MY daughter in less then a month. I wonder how different it will feel, how more intimate it will feel comparing it to holding another woman's child. My heart melts just melts thinking about it! ;)

Probably the most ancient photo there is of us!

And may I add another thing I'm super excited about?! I will be seeing my very close friend Krista in less than a week!! She is also expecting and is due almost exactly a month after me. Haha the thought of us hugging amuses me considering we are both in our third trimester! I seriously can't wait to see her... I will be sure to get emotional over this.  I seriously could not ask for a better pregger partner! She is so supportive and smart.

 So, I am now seeing my doctor every week instead of two weeks. I go back this Thursday to see if I'm dilated. We shall see!! I'm not really crazy about going to the doctors every week to be honest... I actually don't like going to them at all! But on the bright side I get to hear my sweeties heart beat more often!

I am very much enjoying my break! I have had so much more time on my hands and I have been using it wisely. I'm taking extra time to study God's word and I'm finding so many nuggets I haven't seen before, finishing the finishing touches to Evelynne's side of the room, reading and singing to her, and also working some more on my music and ministry. And these fall walks have been taking my breath away!

Just a little longer.

Just a little longer until I get to see your sweet face.
Just a little longer until I experience a mother and daughter embrace.
To kiss your little nose and tickle those ticklish toes.
Your my little Princess. Everybody knows.
I've been thinking about you a lot.
About who you will be.
Will you look like daddy or will you look like me?
I guess I'll have to wait and see.
I can't wait to see your personality.
Just a little longer I will see you finally.
It's amazing how someone so small could capture my heart.
My darling you've had a special place there right from the start.
It's hard to believe that I can love you more than I do now.
But every single day this love for you seems to grow  somehow.
I'm counting the days, weeks and no more months.
Carrying you for soon to be nine months has made me stronger.
And I'm so glad to say now "Just a little longer".

I feel like it's getting closer and closer!

 You know, to my due date! I can't believe it's already been 34 weeks since I was blessed with this life inside of me. It has changed me so much as a person.  This little girl of mine is going to bless so many lives! Just like she has mine. I'm just super blessed that I get a head start on getting to know her. I can't believe I only have six more weeks to go! Til the day I will be holding this little blessing in my arms for the first time. I don't even think I can comprehend how excited I am!

Baby stats:
 Baby States! 
1.How along: 34 weeks.
2. Baby's size: About 17.7 inches 



  3. Weight: 4.7 lbs
 4. Maternity Clothes: I bought the cutest fall shirt at walmart the other day! I'm actually wearing it in this picture along with leggings. I honestly believe that leggings are a preggers best friend!
5. sleep: Well, to be honest. I haven't really gotten any except  for naps. It's kinda hard to get sleep while trying to adjust to Mr Riley's schedule,weird dreams, and baby Evie playing soccer with my ribs =) But naps are wonderful! I try to take them as often as I can.
6. Symptoms I have: Acid reflux and heartburn.. There better be a lot of hair on this child! lol
7. Doctor’s Appointment: My Midwife said she is measuring wonderfully and there will be no need for a early delivery! Thank you God! And my next App is Oct 11th. My momma will be taking me.

What I wore: 
Scarf & shirt - Walmart
Leggings- Walmart
Boots- Yard sale
Watch- Avon

8.Movement: Kicks, hicups, punches. I love it! I feel so connected to her.
9. Belly Button:  Still a innie.
10.  Best moment of the week:  I got to see where I will be taking Evelynne for her doctor appointments. Her Pediatrician is just a doll and so very sweet! She was Leon's Pediatrician. 
 11.Food cravings: My weekly craving this week is Fruit snacks. Which isn't odd considering they were one of my favorite snacks before I was preggers. ;)
 12. Foods I've been staying away from: Just the stuff I stayed away from before.;)
13. Gender: GIRL! Never tired of saying that!

An Autumn Baby Shower.

Last Saturday I was given a wonderful Baby shower by my friends and family. It was so exciting!

The most important thing I can teach my daughter

Picture found on Pinterest

I'm looking forward to teaching my daughter so many things. To read, to write, to enjoy the simple things in life. Yesterday at the sonogram I actually got to see her pretty face in 3d. Not for long and really only half of her face because she was covering the other half (I really hope she gets more photogenic when she enters the world) Looking at that beautiful face I couldn't help but think about her identity in Christ. And how beautifully and wonderfully made she is. Shes had so many people speak into her life about how small she is and that
she is underweight. But looking at her and seeing her. I know she is perfect! It really got me to thinking about "Identity" again. It occurred to me that I believe really the most important thing I can teach my daughter, reveal to her and encourage her to receive is to know her true identity in Christ! Because so many in the world are going to try and deceive her, and tell her who they think she is. It is so important that those things don't matter to her and that the only opinion that should and does matter is from her Heavenly Beloved, Her Heavenly Father and King. To remember that she is beautiful beyond compare. Not because of her looks, or what she wears even though if she takes after her father she'll be in the latest trends for sure! But to remember that she is beautiful because God made her that way. He looks at her, adores her and knows what He has made is really good!
To remember that she is the Victor and never the victim. Because she is the true daughter of the most High God. A spiritual warrior that cannot be defeated.

To remember not to fear because she is perfectly loved. And that nothing can harm her. To know that she has the authority to stomp serpents, to heal the sick, raise the dead, and no evil thing will come near her. To know that evil is powerless when the Children of God are unafraid. And that God has given her the Authority to do such things.

That she has the very abundant life that God has given to her through His Son.

Before she was conceived God knew her and sanctified her.

She is the Bride of Christ. And she is cherished and crowned with glory and honor.

She is not nor ever will be condemned. Because her life is in Christ. He took her condemnation and replaced it with freedom.

And She was created for His Glory to do the Mighty things that God has anointed her  to do. And only she can do! 

I have mentioned before that I believe the most important thing for a woman to know or anyone in general is to know their Identity in Christ! Because once they know that. Nothing will be able to stop them.
I want to teach my daughter these things because I believe it is the most important thing a Born again Christian can know. If they don't know this, they will be stomped on and deceived by what the world thinks they are. My desire and dream is that my daughter knows who she is in Christ. That she can stand tall as a believer looking down to no one.  To have such authority in Christ and allowing Him to work miracles in her life. That what people say doesn't move her, but what she says moves other people, that she can stand inline at a grocery store and not envy or be discouraged by the half dressed model in a magazine. But instead pray for her and pity her, to not be effected by piers but instead her piers be effected by her. I believe God has given me such responsibility by placing a miracle inside of me. A responsibility I will take most seriously. I can't tell you how excited I am to have a little girl call me mom!

32 weeks!

This past month has went by like crazy! My Baby shower is next week. EEK Seriously I can't wait! It's going to be so much fun. I have been busy this month with moving things around, washing clothes, organizing, and also working on my list for "Ten things to do before our daughter comes into the world" I must say I have not yet completed anything on that list yet. =/ But I still have eight more weeks to go! I've been trying to self teach myself Piano by reading and watching instructions on Youtube.  I must say I don't know if it's my learning skills or what but it's not going very well at the moment. However, I'm not giving up! I am determined to play that instrument along with increasing my knowledge with guitar. I think my daughter will not only benefit from me learning but I will as well! And with Leon being at work most of the day I have some time on my hands. How is Leon doing with the Academy you ask? I have a post coming up about that! There is just so much to write about his experience and also my new experience being the wife of a Police trainee and soon to be Cop. He has been through a heck of a lot  past week and to be honest it was hard to watch some days. But every day is getting better. And I will have a story to tell in the next few days about this season. I'm trying to wait until I can get more recent pictures of Him but he's been too tired to cooperate.
But anyways back to our daughter. She has been kicking up the storm lately! Mostly at night and early mornings during my Devotionals. I was like "Man God, I guess I better enjoy these quiet mornings while I

My Dress rehearsal class.

I