tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1032436362257964092024-03-14T01:11:04.561-04:00Coke Cups and LadybugsAndrew and Meaganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13996163408410606823noreply@blogger.comBlogger57125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-103243636225796409.post-46973256643381790482014-12-04T22:59:00.003-05:002014-12-04T23:01:58.209-05:00Stomach bugs, sleep walking, and other fun.After the long holiday week<strike>end</strike> (really entire week for Josie and me), I knew getting back on track with clean eating would be difficult. My family really throws down in the kitchen for Thanksgiving. It's like artwork that you can eat, too! Anyway, we came back to a rather busy week with some big things happening. Josie went off to preschool as usual on Monday, but Tuesday morning--not having it. She was like a different child. She cried, "Josie stay home," before leaving. She looked like a drone on the car ride to school, and she wouldn't even set foot near her classroom door.<br />
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<i>Who is this child?</i><br />
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Side note: Josie and I are that mama/baby couplet where the child leaps out of mama's arms into the loving warmth of her fellow classmates and teachers. It's heart warming, and at the same time, I feel like she's 18 years old and doesn't need me anymore. Ahh...parenthood.<br />
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One look at her face, and I strapped her back in the car seat. Upon hearing that a virus was going around and many teachers were out, I knew I'd made the right decision. We had a day at home, which basically means it was "Frozen" non-stop. Super mom here, nice to meet you. She even says, "Prince Hannns...of Souvern Eyes." (aka Prince Hans of the Southern Isles). #frozenaddiction<br />
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Wednesday, she was back to her normal shenanigans, and I was so relieved that she hadn't shown any more virus symptoms. After all, I had been diffusing our essential oils, applying them topically to her feet, etc. I dressed her in the sweetest little shrimp and grits kids jumper you've ever seen, and she was off! I was able to get a yummy roast going in the crock pot that morning, so no worries for me. When I turn the crockpot on, I think my blood pressure goes down. Seriously, they're directly correlated. Fast forward to the afternoon. Andrew was starving (shocker), so we sat down with the roast...which was just delicious. The problem was that I could only eat a couple of bites. Also, my child ate nothing. Correction: She chewed a bite of celery, then spit it out. From there, it all went downhill. We had a special budget meeting at church, and by the end of it, I was "done." Thankfully, Andrew took over Josie bed time duties for me. I crawled into bed with my clothes still on. That should be a symptom. Seems like every time I do that, something is really wrong. I'll spare you the details that followed, but it.wasn't.pretty. Also, I saw every hour on the clock, which is never fun...which bring me to the 3am hour.<br />
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My husband is a sleep walker. It started with sleep talking. I used to lay there and tell myself to write his monologues down, but they always take place in the wee morning hours. By the time I try to find my phone, I've fallen asleep again. This morning, I caught him charging (yes, like a bull) through the room, frantically in search of the bathroom. I directed him to where he was going. After still managing to wash his hands (good boy), he attempted to walk out of the bedroom. And it goes a little something like this...I asked him where in the world he was going, he told me that he had to present something at the church budget meeting (which he did earlier), and I begged him to come back to bed. Finally, he did. Crisis avoided. This, my friends, is why we don't keep guns in the nightstands. You think I'm joking.<br />
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Thursday. Today, I basically laid in bed. All. Day. Andrew helped out big time with Josie. I didn't want her catching this thing, but I tell ya--I missed that kid! I could hear her little feet running up and down the hall and her crying, "Mommy...hold you." Just awful. I eventually let her up on the bed, and I hope I don't regret that later. I just couldn't take it anymore. She even brought her mama a sea shell from the beach park. Is she not the sweetest thing?<br />
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So, this post is a public service announcement. Avoid this virus at all costs. It is not worth your time. I am hoping to re-join the living tomorrow. But now, more sleep.Andrew and Meaganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13996163408410606823noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-103243636225796409.post-82582080654284175282014-11-03T21:06:00.000-05:002014-11-03T21:06:17.611-05:00Still trucking...Well, I'm here, and I guess I owe you an update. It has been a full week since I was able to add certain foods back into my diet, and I'm loving it. Seriously, y'all. Even though I'm restricted, it's still a good buffet compared to what I did the first week...which was the hardest thing I've ever done. I've read a little on the Whole30 diet, and one quote is, "This is not hard. Having a baby is hard." Let me tell ya how true AND false that statement is. I'd rather go through hard labor (again) for 24 hours than a week of the detox. So, with that in mind, men should probably not attempt it, right?? Hee hee....<br />
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The detox week was pretty rough. I went from Monday-Sunday for a total of seven days. Thursday and Saturday were the worst days for me. By Thursday, I was completely done with my limited diet. I'm sure my body was getting used to zero sugar and very few carbs. I worked Friday (for 12 hours), so that was tiring. I'm sure it contributed to Saturday being awful. Drinking the detox drink got a little easier, but making it every day was about the only activity I could handle. I am so glad that it wasn't longer than one week. I don't know if I could've made it.<br />
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Last week, I was able to add certain meats back into my diet. I'm also allowed coconut flour, almond flour, stevia, etc (which can make for some yummy snacks!) It takes a lot more planning and prep, but so far, it's definitely worth it. I feel fantastic, have more energy, and can see some changes in my weight.<br />
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Cheat alert: I did sneak a very little amount of Halloween candy, and I paid for it. Not a good idea. If I'd known my tummy would hurt that much, I might have eaten more....kidding. I'm about to enter the phase where I add probiotics and anti-fungals (staggered as to not cause candida die off symptoms.)<br />
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I'll keep you posted. So far...so good.Andrew and Meaganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13996163408410606823noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-103243636225796409.post-79818061029494880402014-10-20T21:13:00.000-04:002014-10-20T22:03:38.462-04:00Detox: Day 1I'd love to tell you that I woke up at 5am just plain ecstatic about the detox...but that didn't happen. I woke up early, but laid in the bed thinking, praying, and asking myself, "Meagan, why are you doing this?" This could be a long week....I did get a "Happy Detox Day" from Andrew this morning, which meant a lot. He's a keeper!<br />
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My first detox boo boo is not eating breakfast early enough today. I have this bad habit of getting Josie ready and off to preschool, and not eating til after 9am. Honestly, I wasn't hungry, but once I finished my first round of the detox drink, I was ready to eat. The detox drink is made up of the following:<br />
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-3 pints distilled water<br />
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Simple....cheap...disgusting! Thankfully, I only drink the 1/3 of above recipe three times a day before each meal. I didn't mind the drink at first, but now...I'm wondering how I'll ever drink it again (much less for the next six days!)<br />
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After the detox drink, I ate an egg omelet with peppers and garlic. I'm allowed two eggs daily, so I used one for breakfast. Celery was my mid morning snack (which was more around lunch time). I had a big arugula and bibb lettuce salad for lunch with homemade dressing (vinegar and olive oil based). I threw some avocado on it just to feel like I wasn't a rabbit. No afternoon snack today, although I meant to have some dandelion tea (since I'm allowed herbal teas.) I think I'll grab a cup of that after I finish this. For dinner on day one, I had some veggie soup (made from spinach, garlic, onions, leeks, water, and thyme). It was pretty much awful, but I cooked up an egg to make dinner worthwhile.<br />
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I can tell I haven't had an added sugar or processed foods. This is starting to feel like when we did Paleo for the first time...maybe a little worse. I know one thing for sure--it will get worse by day 3.<br />
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I really can't believe that I watched the hubby eat a million "crabbies" (as J bug calls them). Seriously, as I looked at my food, then his food, I almost jumped that platter of fish. I snapped a pic instead.<br />
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So, there you have it. I'm hanging on, and I didn't cheat.<br />
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<br />Andrew and Meaganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13996163408410606823noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-103243636225796409.post-19236471451137361262014-10-19T23:24:00.000-04:002014-10-19T23:24:43.280-04:00I have a bacteria problem.Before you flip out and call DHEC to come haul me into isolation... hear me out. After years (literally, it's been years) of wondering what in the world is going on with me, I think I know. I think I have a bacteria problem. Now, this isn't a contagious issue. I have an imbalance of good and bad bacteria in my "gut" and an overgrowth of one type of bacteria that causes all sorts of issues. My main issues began five years ago, when I was about to marry Andrew. Perfect timing, right? I love you, let's get married, and oh yeah--here's to in sickness or in health...but mainly sickness. Granted, I haven't been admitted to the hospital, or had surgeries, or tried any experimental drugs, but man...my health has been slowly declining over these years. I haven't realized the total effect of this until this year. Having Josie only exacerbated my symptoms. So, here I am with a two year old, a great husband, and I'm too tired, too achy, too self-conscious (more on this later), and too brain fried to enjoy it. I've come to a breaking point, and a decision has been made. I'm "done," as we say in the south. Why am I blogging about this like Julie and Julia (if you don't know what this means, sorry for the reference)?? Well, accountability is what I need. The food plan and detox aspects of this next couple of months will be pretty difficult for me, and I'm pretty nervous about it. I figured that if anyone (literally, any ONE of you) was reading these posts to keep up with my progress, I just can't let you down. No, I won't be posting measurements or belly pics, because let's face it, y'all don't wanna see my belly. I've never had one to be proud of, and that's not even the goal of this whole operation. Sure, if I get rid of this issue, I'm bound to lose some weight, but my main goal is to be 100% to take care of my sweet family and fulfill God's calling on my life as a wife, mama, nurse, pastor's wife, daughter, sister, aunt, etc. You get the picture, right?<br />
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I'm going to spare you my paraphrased research and all that jazz. If you want to search for candida overgrowth, then have at it. You'll find a pretty accurate list (minus a few) of my symptoms. You'll also find a lot of different "treatments" out there. Here are the basics of the next few weeks of my life and how I'm tackling this beast.<br />
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1. The first week of this "plan" will require a detox phase. Wait...hold the phone..yep, I said detox. I'm not too psyched about this at all. I basically can eat veggies, two eggs per day, and drink a detox drink that's super yummy.... ;-) It's water, cayenne pepper, lemon juice, and apple cider vinegar.<br />
2. After the first seven days, if I'm still breathing, I can add other foods back in (including some beloved meat!)<br />
3. I'll do my best to keep this thing updated, but I have a feeling that the temporary lack of carbs is going to affect my brain pretty (well, very) badly.<br />
4. Please call my husband if you see me at chick-fil-a or staring at the donuts at the harris teeter bakery (2 for $1....what???)....seriously though, call him. Cause it could happen.<br />
5. At the end of a couple of months, I should see a notable difference in my health and improvement in the symptoms that have gotten progressively worse the past few years.<br />
6. Please don't worry about Andrew and Josie, as they won't be participating in this. Andrew literally said he'd die if I made him.<br />
7. All joking aside--As daunting as this seems, I'm very excited about it. I also know these will be dreadfully hard weeks for me. They will require a lot of planning and self-discipline on my part. I think I'll learn a lot, too! I'll try to post what I'm eating, drinking, and how it's going on a regular basis, with the hopes that it helps the accountability aspect of this whole operation.<br />
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So, welcome aboard this crazy train....it's pulling out of the station.<br />
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<br />Andrew and Meaganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13996163408410606823noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-103243636225796409.post-1126626009180673892014-03-27T23:30:00.000-04:002014-04-02T23:31:24.935-04:00Updates and other randomosities. I think I just made up a word, Webster.Well, life is pretty busy for the Winburn 3 + a dog these days. Here's what's happening in our neck of the woods.<br />
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1. <b>Our house is for sale--and it's hard for me. </b></div>
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I don't know if we're really capable of loving inanimate objects. People sure do try, though. It's hard for me to use the word "love" so easily. I love God. I love Andrew. I love Josie. And with that in mind....I really, really, really, really like our first home. I have liked it from day one. Andrew didn't think I'd like it. He thought it looked like a trailer on realtor.com.</div>
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He was oh-so wrong.We walked in the house, walked around, made an offer...</div>
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even though the pool looked like a condemned moat....even though the back bedrooms were painted pepto pink and sunshine yellow...even though it was a short sale...etc.</div>
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We have lived in that sweet, precious, memory filled house for right at three years now...and it feels like 3 months. Shortly after Andrew totally brought the pool back to life (which did he ever!), we decided to be all organic and plant a garden. It was so fun having that little garden in our back yard.</div>
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<i>Flashback: I remember laying on my back as a kid...picking tomatoes off the vine. I remember shelling peas and snapping beans. If you know what that entails--you grew up gardening. My awesome Grannie and Papa put me on sign patrol for their road side advertisements. My job was to paint signs for attracting 72 bypass "bypassers" to buy produce from their garden. I vividly remember Papa calling me on the phone (although we lived so close he could've yelled and I'd have heard him) to give specific details for his next sign. Life was so good. We sold produce every summer, and I made a cut of the profits. I found out later that my Grannie and Papa gave a lot of that money to their church. I remember the row of zinnias that Grannie planted each summer. I remember my Dad coming home from hard days, changing clothes, and getting out in the garden. What a guy. I pray that I never forget such sweet memories.</i></div>
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Ok, I'm back. Anyway, one day, Andrew discovered Peter Rabbit feasting on something in our garden. I'm pretty sure it's against the law to fire a gun in Wildewood, so he went bow hunting. So imagine my hubs standing on the deck with his bow/arrows (many arrows) to kill bunny foo foo. I was so sad. I couldn't watch. Is it possible to become more sensitive toward animal deaths as you age? If so, that's all me. I love my husband, and he's a great hunter...but not this time. I'm sure the wind was to blame or something, but every time, bunny got away, much to my delight. I'd been saying that the backyard was lonely without a dog, and I got shot down each time. One day, after a few failed kill missions, Andrew gave in.</div>
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"I think we need to get a dog."</div>
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I tried not to act too excited and play it cool, but I couldn't. I became a 4 year old at Christmas mixed with a first time mom picking out baby names. I went pretty crazy.</div>
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In a few weeks, we had our sweet "first born," our Maya. So many of our wonderful Beaver Dam Road memories include that stinker. Some "bad girl" (chewed up) memories as well...</div>
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I remember having Maya in our Christmas pictures the following December. Someone warned us that first comes the dog, then comes the baby.</div>
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They were right. In October of 2012, the sweetest girl in the world was born into our family and made our home full of love.</div>
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So, this is hard. Again, I try not to love things, but I can't help cherishing the memories I see when looking at that house. </div>
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<i>That front porch light fixture Andrew changed out for me.</i></div>
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<i>The hooks where we hung our beautiful hanging baskets.</i></div>
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<i>The monkey grass where Maya fought a snake. Eek.</i></div>
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<i>The mud room we never used.</i></div>
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<i>The chair that I sleeplessly rocked in while missing our new baby who we had to leave in the hospital until she was 8 days old.</i></div>
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<i>The hydrangeas we planted my first mother's day.</i></div>
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<i>The front porch.</i></div>
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<i>The pool where I floated around for hours of my pregnancy. </i><br />
<i>Hours.....</i><br />
<i>...Many of those were spent sleeping.</i></div>
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The list goes on and on...</div>
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But... it is just like with everything else. Just because you're missing the presence of something or someone doesn't mean that the memories go with them. I am thankful for that. I will miss our first home. I'm excited about making new memories here in Charleston.</div>
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2. <b>Ear infections: Please be gone!</b></div>
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Our little angel seems to keep running into ear infections....on average of every 4-6 weeks. Where did this come from? We went 13 months without a single problem. Now, it seems we forgot one for a while, then boom! They're baaaaaaack!</div>
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The (or should I say "a") great thing about JoJo is how well she handles being sick. She is rarely fussy, and she hardly runs a fever. That's also what makes it hard. The typical assessment findings don't apply to her. She doesn't pull at her ears. She doesn't scream. She has an awesome appetite, and she is a better sleeper than I was while working nights. That says a lot! She's awesome. I can't wait to use this as encouragement one day when she's in labor. I can hear me now...</div>
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"Josie, you don't need drugs to have this baby. You battled double full blown ear infections without a peep."</div>
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Haha. I'm weird. </div>
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Needless to say, her pain tolerance has to be high. I think I remember Mom saying the same things about me as a child. Go figure. Anyway, I am praying that these recurrent infections have something to do with this crazy weather. It's high time that this weather get consistently hot and pollen free...if you ask me. Also, I'd love it if every gnat in Charleston could just die. Seriously. They're awful. I'm sure that's in another story somewhere down the road. Stay tuned. </div>
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Yesterday, JoJo woke up from a (4, yes 4, hour nap!) I checked on her multiple times. She normally sleeps like a rock when she's under the weather, so I knew we were heading into something. Her temp was 102. Naturally, being the cool, calm, and collective nurse mommy that I am...I flipped. She was shaking, which I'm now assuming that was the chills. However, I'm paranoid about febrile seizures, so I lost it. I was about to run across the street to the ER, but Andrew calmed me down. I ended up at an urgent care, because we haven't found a pediatrician yet...and no office would see us. It was actually a no hassle easy experience, and of course, she had an ear infection. This one was scary, because it hit her extremely fast. She's doing fine, and we're just happy that they don't seem to throw her too much. We just want them to stop, of course.</div>
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3. <b>I'll be 30 on April Fool's Day. How appropriate for me, right?</b></div>
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In honor of my 30th, I'm giving you the Meagan Winburn version of 30 for 30. This is the randomness I spoke of in the title. I saved it for the end, if case you want to check out...in case you haven't already. If you haven't, you deserve a cookie. Congratulations!</div>
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And....go!</div>
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1. I consistently call my child Puddles McWinburn. I don't know where it came from.</div>
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2. My engagement ring belonged to Andrew's paternal grandmother, Mamee. I cherish it.</div>
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3. I would've been little Justin Brown had I been born a boy. Andrew's so glad I wasn't.</div>
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4. I'm not sure of my actual shoe size since I had Josie.</div>
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5. My maternal grandparents and Andrew's maternal grandparents were married on the exact same day and year. </div>
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6. Sometimes, I let things bother me that shouldn't and don't let some things bother me that should.</div>
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7. My grandfather prayed for musical grandchildren. All five of his grandchildren sing. </div>
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8. I dread Josie coming home with math homework one day.</div>
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9. I hate newspaper. I hate touching it mainly...also the smell.<br />
10. I really want to go to Hawaii. Like....tomorrow!<br />
11. I have always been fascinated by assassinations, catastrophes, etc. My mindset is always thinking, "What could've been done to prevent this??" Strange, I know. A few of my favorites as a child were Lincoln, JFK, MLK Jr, Titanic...<br />
12. I currently have the cabinets under the sink child proofed using a plastic bag. Redneck ingenuity.<br />
13. I loved my first grade teacher, Mrs. Sheets. She had such neat handwriting. Mrs. Sheets and my mom made me prioritize neat penmanship.<br />
14. I wish I could freeze time each moment Josie gives hugs and kisses.<br />
15. Andrew weighed 11 pounds 6 ounces at birth. He was also 24 inches long. Essentially, he was born a toddler.<br />
16. I could watch Pride and Prejudice (Keira Knightley version) every day.<br />
17. I remember the exact moment I listened to my first Coldplay album. I love their music.<br />
18. I think Maisy and Lennon Stella on ABC's "Nashville" are amaaaaazing.<br />
19. Speaking of the name Stella, I love that name.<br />
20. Speaking of a name that I love. I cannot stand when people "claim" names. Yes, I said it...and you've all heard it. "We're naming our FUTURE (son/daughter) ___________." Come on, people.<br />
21. I drank a lot of chocolate milk as a child...with a spoon...like soup. Weird.<br />
22. When telemarketers call my Grannie, she blows a whistle in the phone receiver. She's my hero.<br />
23. If I could do anything, I'd own a children's boutique.<br />
24. The women in my family can flat out cook. My grandmothers could open a restaurant.<br />
25. I'm on a mission to find the perfect pool float.<br />
26. I haven't been able to part with any of Josie's clothes yet. Sentimental pack rat alert!<br />
27. I have sung in front of huge crowds, solo and in groups. I've sung with Barack Obama present. Kinda random...<br />
28. I hope I never have to work night shift again.<br />
29. I <strike>don't</strike> can't do scary movies. </div>
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30. I misspelled my last (maiden) name (Brown) on a spelling test once. I put an "e" on the end. My logic was that it couldn't be the same word as my last name. Wow. I think my dad wondered about me for a while after that one.<br />
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And there you have it. If you made it this far, see me for a prize. </div>
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Andrew and Meaganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13996163408410606823noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-103243636225796409.post-41068696282508945872014-02-20T21:05:00.000-05:002014-02-25T21:06:16.546-05:00Why, women? Why?I really do like being a woman. Two important callings in my life revolve around being one. I am a wife to a wonderful husband, who leads our family and points us to Jesus. I am a mother to a beautiful and precious daughter, who daily allows me to be humbled as I experience God's love for me in ways I never did before. I love encouraging other women: moms, non-moms, married, single, hurting, happy, stressed, confused, content...you name it. Women are tough cookies, and I just love how God created us all so very different, yet so similar.<br />
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However, there are times when I don't enjoy certain aspects of being a woman. You may or may not agree with me, but I am about to tell you why being a woman is so difficult at times for me. Are you ready? Ok, here it is.</div>
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Being a woman is so hard at times, because women are so hard on each other.</div>
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There.I said it.</div>
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Why, ladies? Why? Why do we have to be so hard on each other? The true weight of this didn't hit me until I got married and became a mother. Most women state their opinions very clearly and very often, making it at times very difficult for others to even think about doing anything close to the opposite...at least without catching more grief and opinions. Here are just a few examples of typical highly opinionated women topics that I've observed/experienced/endured.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<i>Breastfeeding vs. Formula Feeding</i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i>Public/Private school Education vs. Home Education</i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i>Stay at home moms vs. Working moms</i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i>Vegan, paleo, gluten free, non GMO, no MSG, organic, grass fed, pasture raised vs. (well, whatever isn't that!)</i></div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
<i>Cloth diapers vs. Disposable diapers</i></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<i>Vaccinating vs. Not Vaccinating </i><br />
<br />
to name a few...<br />
<i><br /></i>
These topics are pretty important, and all have to do with some aspect of a child's health. Some of these topics bring moms to tears. Some of them involve easy decisions--some involve tough ones. They can be, "sensitive subjects." I know I've shed some tears over a few of these things. Women often get the urge to impart "wisdom" on these topics to others even when it's unsolicited. Sadly, the offering isn't as problematic as the motive behind it. It's the desire to be heard, respected, valued, validated and sometimes, to be thought of as "super mom." Does she even exist? I'd love to meet her. Let me just say this, I'm guilty of this myself. <b>I am guilty.</b> So, please don't think I'm preaching. Personally, I get irate when I see a women's confidence in her decisions as a mommy eroded because of another women. Come on, girls. We have enough pressure in this world. Do we have to inflict more on each other?</div>
<div>
<i><br /></i></div>
<div>
This is one of the reasons I love men. Let me rephrase that. When I say I love men, I mean I love one man...my hubby. I also love my dad, father in law, brother, brother in laws, etc....you get it. That's not the point. However, in general, most men are nothing like us women when it comes to this. They just do their own thing. If you like it, fine. If you don't like it, there's the door. Why can't women be more like that? It's like we have some sort of personal mission to relay our point or why our lifestyle is the best to others so much, that we push it waaaay too much! Honestly, I've never been more offended or hurt than by women...and I live with a pretty blunt man, y'all. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
So, where am I going with all this? What is God teaching me? Well, for starters, He's teaching me to be more like Jesus. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
If you read the New Testament, you'll see many accounts of Jesus walking, talking and just doing life with people. Sure, he delivered a sermon or two. Sure, he knew the Law. However, you don't really ever see any words in red that tell of Jesus saying, "Be just like me. I do this, and I don't do that. If you act like this, then you're really not doing it right." If anything, Jesus led so well by example. He ultimately offered His body as a living sacrifice, and He did it perfectly. Romans 12 tells us to "offer [our] bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing unto God." I think we often forget the "unto God" part. Why? Well, probably because it's a no brainer. Pleasing God and pleasing man are sometimes two different things. When it comes down to living your life, live the life God tells you to live--and let others do the same. Don't think that just because someone doesn't nurse their baby that they're uneducated about the nutrition of their child. It isn't necessarily your place to educate them. Don't think that just because someone chooses home education that they're a strange person who makes their own jeans. (...not that making your own jeans is considered strange). If someone asks for your opinion, then give it to them. You should not make your life platform convincing others to do it your way. Besides, who does that put the spotlight on? You! Focus on your relationship with God, and He will lead you to set an example with your life, just as Jesus did.<br />
<br />
I am not preaching. I'm reflecting. I'm talking to myself, and I'm praying that God continues to break my will and make me more like Him.<br />
<br />
Am I the only one who has struggled with this? </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Andrew and Meaganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13996163408410606823noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-103243636225796409.post-28474447936163088562014-01-24T20:01:00.000-05:002014-01-25T20:03:12.983-05:00News...newsIf we're buds on facebook, then you probably already know our news. Nope, not baby #2....<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>WE ARE MOVING!</b><br />
<br />
<br />
Honestly, I never thought we'd move. I remember a conversation with my mother last year...<br />
<br />
Me: <i>"We'll never leave Columbia. We'll be here 'til we die."</i><br />
<br />
(God says, "Ha!") ...<br />
<br />
Andrew is the new pastor of Fort Johnson Baptist church on James Island, and we're so excited. Generation Church will always be a part of our family history, as we will always be a part of their story. We couldn't be more thankful for our time there and the precious people there.<br />
<br />
FJBC has already been so welcoming to us! We are hoping our house sells soon so that we can set some roots in James Island.<br />
<br />
<br />
Now, for Josie news (since I know you're just dying to know!)<br />
<br />
<b>Walking::</b> It happened. She finally did it. It only took her til 15 months...and one day! Dr. C said that he usually refers kiddos to babynet if they haven't walked by 15 months. Josie likes to cut it close...like her mama. She took her first consistent steps at BB and G-pa's house last week. The progression of events was mainly Josie walking a few steps, then she'd turn and look at all of us (for a round of applause, of course!) I don't know where that child gets the need to perform. Oh, my. Y'all...genetics are real. Also, I firmly believe that God has a sense of humor.<br />
<br />
<b>Words:: </b>We have some pretty awesome communication going on right now with our little one. New words include:<br />
<br />
"Preeeey" = Pretty<br />
<br />
"Baah" = Ball<br />
<br />
"Haaa" (like saying "Hat" without the "t") = a combination of Hey/Hi<br />
<br />
"Baba" = banana<br />
<br />
"Babeee" = blueberries (We actually don't ever say this word unless we can deliver the actual goods. Kinda like the word "bath." We have learned the hard way. She's so obsessed with "babees" that every time I open the refrigerator door, she thinks that's what I'm getting. Eek.)<br />
<br />
"Papa" = Papa<br />
<br />
"Mehmeh" = MeeMee<br />
<br />
"Buh-buh" = BB<br />
<br />
"Pa!!!!" = G-pa<br />
<br />
**We're also doing a lot of jabbering. I'm just trying to be a good listening mommy, even though I have NO clue what she's talking about half the time. Guess it's my pay back for all the gabbing I've done my entire life. **<br />
<br />
<b>Other random things::</b><br />
<br />
-Weighed 20 lbs and 12 oz at her 15 month checkup. She is teeny, but tall!<br />
<br />
- Doing so well with the instruction "no." Seriously, I'm blown away. Maybe it's because I act like we won the lottery every time she listens.<br />
<br />
- Is still enamored by Gigglebellies. If I could give a gift to every parent in the world, it would be gigglebellies. Google it, and thank me later.<br />
<br />
-Likes to wear her (play) bracelets, brush her hair, and put on (play) makeup. Here we go...<br />
<br />
-Prefers to play around the house in only a diaper, but I make her put on clothes ;-)<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Well, that's all I've got for now. Thanks for checking in!Andrew and Meaganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13996163408410606823noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-103243636225796409.post-11624204661553182802013-12-19T00:53:00.003-05:002013-12-19T00:54:06.278-05:00Dear Josie<i>Insomnia. I think that's what I have tonight. Here we are, in the middle of one of the busiest times of the year. What am I doing? ...Getting things done! However, tomorrow will be rough....umm...make that today. Hello. It's 12:35 am. Oh my. </i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>It hit me this week. I am totally not jotting down some memorable Josie moments like I should. She's really changing and growing so much. It's hard to keep up with her. So, why not have a "Dear Josie" session every once and a while to log the memories? Here we go.</i><br />
<br />
Dear Josie,<br />
<br />
This week, you have blown me away. Always on the go...always watching...always thinking. Your BB says, "No wonder she sleeps so well!" You're still taking two naps daily to refuel.I like to use that time to prepare for the next Jo-zilla attack.So far, you're not a walker. Hurry up, girl. Two steps ain't cutting it. And...mommy's scared your little fingers are going to get stepped on every time we're around big kids.<br />
<br />
You are talking up a storm, and I can't get enough of that sweet little voice. Some of your fav phonics are..(translations following)<br />
<br />
"Hi-yah!" = light<br />
"MaaaMaaaahh" = Maya<br />
"MaaaMeee" = Mommy<br />
"Da-Dah!" = Daddy<br />
"Haaaaayah!" = Hallelujah! (preacher's kid!)<br />
"Ha" = Elf (on the shelf)<br />
<br />
On Monday, I caught you rocking your baby doll for the first time while you watched your praise baby video. It was so sweet. Of course, I was crying...so I don't have a video. Just believe me. It was adorable, and you will cry too when it's your little girl rocking her baby. Just seems like a month ago that you were that little baby being rocked. Eek! Stop growing up so fast!<br />
<br />
Today, I bathed you in the afternoon since we had dinner plans later than usual. You must have been thrilled to see the running bath water....cause you made a special puddle in the floor for me to clean up. Then, you tried to reach in the toilet while I was cleaning it up. Then, you tried escaping out of the bathroom while I put the toilet lid down. Then, I had to run and catch you in the den as you crawled away from me....at warp speed....completely naked. Sigh...you are a mess. You're my angel baby.<br />
<br />
Love always,<br />
<br />
Mommy<br />
<br />Andrew and Meaganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13996163408410606823noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-103243636225796409.post-71522125699984473712013-08-17T20:14:00.003-04:002013-08-17T20:14:47.351-04:00Some things I could never say to my husband...on Facebook!There are times when I look back on my life and say, "Why didn't I write that down?" This actually happens a lot. I really should use this blog as a catch all for written memories that I'd love for Josie to read one day. If I am really honest, that's what this blog is for. It's a look back on all the good (and some bad) times that life brings along this great journey. Honestly, if people read it and get something out of it--great. If not, that's great, too. It has still served its purpose for me!<br />
<br />
I just had one of those "you should write about this" moments while I was recapping the day and putting Josie down for bed.<br />
<br />
So, even though there are dishes, and laundry, and everything else, I'm writing...now.<br />
<br />
Andrew would kill me if I wrote a catchy/sappy status on facebook about today. Well, he really wouldn't kill me, but I know he wouldn't like it. We're not really one of those couples who write about how much they love each other on their status box...or each others' wall...or anywhere else for that matter. Disclaimer: if you know or are one of those couples...I'm not coming down on them. We're free to be you and me. Just sayin'--Andrew and Meagan USUALLY don't roll like that. So, if I'm breaking our marital code by this post--I'm sorry, babe. I gotta do it, though.<br />
<br />
I've been thinking a lot about our fourth anniversary coming up. Today was just a wonderful day. It was busy, but wonderful. I had planned on getting up and leaving for Charleston around 9, since my bestie (Camille) was having her baby shower. The plan was to bring Josie, until Andrew and I saw how the weather was panning out. We threw around some different options--all of which I wasn't thrilled about (going to the shower without Josie, not going at all...) Finally, Andrew said that he'd drive to Charleston with me.<br />
<br />
"Yippee, you say. Shouldn't he have done that from the beginning?"<br />
<br />
Here's the clincher.<br />
<br />
Normally, since Andrew's a pastor, he uses Saturday as a true rest day. Pastors don't really get Sundays off, so Saturday it is! However, today our church had a ministry event taking place most of the afternoon and into early evening. So you see, Andrew had a busy day already. He still made time for his family. Can I just say something? This is one of the many things that I love about my husband. (Ouch. Sappy moment #1...sorry, babe.)<br />
<br />
So, we busted it to get out the door this morning. Josie napped in the car on the way down and back (which for all you parents who are like us, that means no talking between Mommy and Daddy). After all, you're not gonna disrupt car slumber....unless you are crazy! Andrew dropped us off at the shower, and we stayed for a little over an hour, since we had to be back in Columbia asap. As we drove back to Columbia, I could tell Andrew was sleepy. Since Josie was asleep, we weren't talking, there was no radio, and it was overcast outside (the worst stay awake combo ever!) He kept on chugging, and we made it back in time for us to split ways for a bit, and meet back up for the event held tonight in a local park. He hasn't stopped since.<br />
<br />
Andrew jumped in finished his work day with our wonderful church. In fact, he's still there now. His whole Saturday...loving on us...and loving on others. I drove home blissfully content with the man God has blessed me with. (Sorry to use the word "blissfully," ...sappy strikes again.)<br />
<br />
God wants men to lead their families and provide for them. So many men have great intentions, but they get it all wrong. They provide things that money can buy: clothes, vacations, toys, and entertainment. Keep in mind that I'm not against any of these. However, they are not the provisions that we need most. God calls husbands in Ephesians to "love [their] wives as Christ loved the church." This love should guide and lead a wife by pointing her closer to Jesus. Today, my husband did that. He sacrificed for his family. All the things money can buy could not be more precious to me than this.<br />
<br />
So, as I sit here typing this and watch our daughter sleep, I will say a few final things to a few people.<br />
<br />
To Robert and Cookie: Thank you. You raised a wonderful man.<br />
To Josie: I pray God leads you to someone just like Daddy.<br />
To my parents: Thanks for praying for me every day of my life. I know you already know this, but I got a good one!<br />
To Andrew: I love you. I see how you purposefully and lovingly lead our family, and I can't tell you how thankful I am. I found the greatest gift when I found you.<br />
<br />
And there it is...sappiness.<br />
<br />
But, it's the truth.<br />
<br />Andrew and Meaganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13996163408410606823noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-103243636225796409.post-87080962089243768702013-07-19T15:11:00.002-04:002013-07-19T15:11:50.371-04:00Can't weight....<div class="MsoNormal">
Having a baby changes everything. When you hear this
overused phrase, you tend to think, “Yeah, I know that.” You realize that your
easy overnight trips, sleeping in til 10am, late night ice cream runs, and all
day errands will change. You realize that it’s all worth it, and that you’ll
never look back. You realize that your body will change. Again, it’s worth it.
However, what you don’t realize about your body is that it won’t change back as
easily. Add a crazy level of prenatal and postpartum hormones that are
completely individualized and can last for months after delivery. Whew. Hello
change.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Never have I ever struggled with my weight. Until now. Not
just my weight, people… My face is breaking out, eczema is flaring up, and now
when I sneeze….I should be crossing my legs (if you know what I mean.) This, my
friends, is motherhood in the raw. This is what is leftover once you have your
beautiful, bouncing baby! Honestly, I thought I’d bounce back in time. Fast
forward through a lot of weeks and….nope. In fact, I initially lost weight, and
then gained again. Don’t get me wrong. Like I said initially, it is completely
worth it. Still, there is something that will break your heart when you’re
looking in the mirror at 3, 5, 8, 9 (eek!) months later…and you still haven’t
lost all the weight. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Then, the comparing comes
in</b>. Facebook is an awesome way to keep up with friends and family. I am
able to introduce my daughter to many friends who might not meet her otherwise.
Others can watch her grow and develop, and for this networking, I am extremely
grateful. Facebook, however, is the WORST idea when you’re insecure about
ANYTHING. Everyone on facebook loves posting all their good pictures, good
stories, wins, promotions, etc. You get the picture. No one ever posts, “Hey
guys…feelin’ chubby today. Don’t have a thing in my closet. Peace out.” No one
ever posts, “Hey guys. Got dumped today. Gonna keep on truckin’!” It just doesn’t
work that way. So, why do we feel the need to compare ourselves with those who
aren’t really showing themselves as they really are? They’re not showing us the
good, the bad, the ugly. They’re showing us what they WANT us to see. Big
difference—big problem.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Then, here comes the
advice</b>. Disclaimer: To those who’ve encouraged from the heart or not said a
word when you could have (wink, wink)… Thank you. To those of you who know it
all…congratulations. Let me know how that turns out for you down the road. I
mean, come on, y’all. There is a time where advice should be kept to yourself.
I’ve heard it all.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You should cut out meat.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You should eat meat.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You should run.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Nursing is the best weight loss.” (I had to stop nursing
Josie after several months due to medical issues. This is kind of a sore spot
with me to say the least.)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You should do hot yoga!” (Haven’t heard that one, but I am
all about some hot yoga)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You should pay a sitter and go workout.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You should go to the gym right after school after you’ve
been away from Josie all day and get home around 5 and just spend 2 hours with
her that day.” (nope!)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“If Josie were more active, you’d be skinnier because you’d
be chasing her.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You should have another baby?” (Say what???)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You should pay $ and sign up for this program, because it’s
the best there is. It worked for me.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“You should listen to me, because I have been in your exact
situation with your exact life and your exact strengths and weaknesses, and
this is what I did…” (Wait a sec, that’s right. No one has ever said that….or
been able to.)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Recently, I had a close friend ask me for advice about her
baby registry. I was thrilled when she asked me, but I made the disclaimer
immediately, </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>“I can only tell you
what has worked for me. It may not work for you, and it may not even work for
anyone else.” <o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Two conditions should be present for advice:</div>
<ol start="1" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal">It’s
solicited. (Am I guilty of breaking this rule….umm, yes.)</li>
<li class="MsoNormal">You
make the above disclaimer each time.</li>
</ol>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Don’t get me wrong y’all. I know you’re just trying to help,
but some people haven’t learned an important word…</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Tact (<span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 7pt;">a<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></span><a href="http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/keen%5b1%5d"><span style="background: white; color: #1122cc; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 7.0pt;">keen</span></a><span class="apple-converted-space"><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 7pt;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; font-family: Verdana; font-size: 7pt;">sense
of what to do or say in order to maintain good relations with others or avoid
offense</span>)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In life, you can do two things when you’re confronted with
situations that stink. You can dwell in them, on them, and everywhere around
them. Or, you can learn something and move on. I have to choose to move on. God
wouldn’t want me wasting my time checking out my skinny mama friends on facebook
(or non-mamas…). He wouldn’t want me crying to my mama about it or looking back
at pre-baby pics. He’d want me to find Him in this. What is he teaching me? </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<ol start="1" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal">My
identity is solely found in Jesus Christ.</li>
</ol>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<i>God doesn’t care about my looks, and He only cares about my body in how
I use it to honor Him. I choose only to concern myself with being attractive
for my husband and no other man, woman, or facebook entourage. I will choose to
make healthy decisions for my life because they honor God, and they will keep
my body strong to take care of my husband, child, and serve in my church and community. <o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<br /></div>
<ol start="2" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal">I need
to practice self-discipline.</li>
</ol>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<i>From biting my tongue during painful advice to driving past Sonic’s ½ off
during the summer milkshakes…I’ve had to rely on God for self-discipline. He is
teaching me so much. <o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
Ok, that’s it. This wasn’t meant
to be a rant, please know that. I truly hope this post will only help those who
identify with the same feelings or encourage others to think about those who
may. Until next time…cause, it’s time to work out ;-)</div>
Andrew and Meaganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13996163408410606823noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-103243636225796409.post-23196071026113794292013-06-21T21:26:00.001-04:002013-06-21T21:32:46.116-04:00Pathetic...<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">Disclaimer: I started this post when Josie was 5 months old. She is now 8 months old, and I've committed to getting back into the swing of things with this blog, hoping to keep family and friend updated. If you wanted the story of Josie's birth (minus the ugly details...here it is!)</span></i><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
<br />
That's the perfect adjective to describe me as a blogger! Oh, my! Well, I do hate excuses. However, would you believe that we've been a little busy around here? Our sweet Josie Ann Winburn is now five (yes, FIVE) months old as of last Friday. If it's even possible, I love her more each day. She brings so much joy to our lives, and we are beyond thankful for the blessing she is!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
Everything in life happens for a reason. I've always believed that, but we have lived that saying over the past five months. As some of you may know, our Josie was born with some issues causing her to end up in the NICU for her first week with us. I haven't shared the full story, so I'll attempt it here. Hang on...</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
As I was nearing the end of my third trimester, the doctors started closely watching my blood pressure. I had some serious swelling in my lower extremities from 25 weeks on, and they were concerned that I'd develop pre-eclampsia (a serious condition affecting mommy's blood pressure that can be deadly.) I was limited to working half days at school, and since Josie was predicted to be above 8 pounds, the doctors decided to induce me at 39 weeks. We were scheduled to go to Baptist for our induction on Sunday, October 14th. I was to have a foley bulb induction (something I'd heard horror stories about.) Well, the induction worked...even though I realized that I'd been contracting all weekend prior to the induction. The nurse just laughed. Here I am...a nurse, and I didn't even know I was having contractions for days. Monday morning of October 15th came early. They started pitocin early, and even though I had some set backs that morning (two epidurals since the first didn't work), things were going well. In fact, not to sound like super mama, but I really never was begging for the epidural. The nurse kept checking on me, and I never was in any extreme pain. That would soon change! An hour went by, and I had dilated 5 cm. That's unheard of, especially for the first baby. So, here we were. I was 8 cm, and we knew the doctor anticipated Josie being here by mid-late afternoon. Not too shabby. We were so excited. Well, 10cm was upon us, and you know what time it was. Pushing time! Dr. Odom said he'd allow me two hours. "Please," I thought. "I'll have this girl here in 30 minutes."</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
It didn't work like that.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
You see, I worked hard....very hard. The nurses kept telling me I was doing "everything right." However, no Josie. Miss Priss decided that she didn't want to/couldn't make that special turn in the birth canal to come and meet us. Her heart rate was perfect on the monitor throughout the whole day. I tried for 2 1/2 hours....and no baby. At this point, the epidural had stopped working. Unfortunately, I never reaped the full benefits of an epidural. Josie's foot was in my ribs for a big portion of labor, and I thought I might have to just come off of that table! In full surrender, I sadly agreed to go to c-section for us to meet sweet Josie. The pain at this point was overwhelming. My epidural had completely stopped working, and I felt every contraction. Birthing a baby ain't for the wimpy. I thought I would snap the arm rail of that bed in half. I was rushed to the OR, and they promised me a quick spinal anesthesia procedure. They were right. I immediately got another spinal pain medicine, and I was good to go. No, my plan did not include Josie being born via c-section, but I did want her healthy. Oh well. At least we'd have her soon, I thought. </span><br />
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I could not have been more wrong. What happened next was without a doubt one of the best and worst experiences of my life.</span><br />
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You dream about the moment that you will see your baby, hear them cry, quickly count their fingers and toes, and become a mommy. My moment was so beautiful. I've never loved Andrew more, and without a doubt--I've never loved anyone at first sight like Josie. She was beautiful and perfect. Apgar scores were 8 and 9 (out of 10)! They whisked Josie away with Andrew to newborn nursery, while I stayed put. After all, I was open on an OR table. My c-section was awesome. The doctors, nurses and I had the best time. We laughed, made jokes, I threw up a few times, laughed about it, and so on...Yes, I may have lost a little too much blood, but that's why I chose an amazing OB practice. Dr. Odom definitely did his job! I was sent to recovery with no complications. </span><br />
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I remember laying in recovery and thinking of nothing but Josie. I couldn't wait to get my hands on her! I watched the clock like a hawk, knowing that the nursery nurse was probably giving her newborn medications, weighing her, obtaining length/head circumference measurements, and probably getting footprints. I tried to imagine the whole thing in my head. Time passed, and no Andrew or Josie. I was beginning to think something was wrong. Maybe she was just a little cold and needed to warm up, maybe they needed to get a blood sugar (since I was a borderline gestational diabetic--that's another story), maybe she was just so cute and our family was snapping away with the cameras. At this point...I just wanted my baby. </span><br />
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When Andrew walked through the door alone, my heart sank. I knew something was wrong. Andrew told me that Josie was not breathing like she should, and I immediately when into nurse interrogation mode. Was she on the ventilator? What was her color like? Did they have a mask on her? Was her blood sugar too low? I went on and on...and of course, Andrew didn't know the answers. I was so helpless. Here I was (in recovery), and if I could have moved my legs, I would have sprinted to my baby. Our sweet nurse came into recovery to update me. I cried as she explained Josie's situation. Josie was experiencing transient tachypnea of the newborn, or TTN. Basically, something like 1% of infants experience TTN. Babies either have trouble clearing fluid from the lungs or extra fluid remains causing rapid and labored breathing, or respiratory distress. These babies need oxygen support and special monitoring for a period of time. Usually, they recover completely with no lasting side effects from the condition. That's the problem in a nut shell. Unfortunately, Josie was monitored in newborn nursery (and not NICU) for the first 24 hours. I believe she should have gone to NICU directly, but that was not the case. Since babies with TTN do not need any extra stimulation or added stress, I knew I wouldn't be able to hold Josie until her breathing normalized. </span><br />
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As I sit and type this, I am transported back in time and filled with same emotions that consumed me. Andrew and I felt so helpless. As I was transported to my postpartum room, we passed Josie in the hall way. The doctors, respiratory therapists, and nurses were wheeling her to the nursery for the evening. Obviously, we knew she'd stay there under observation. I was allowed to put my hand through the peep holes of the isolette and touch my sweet baby. It wasn't enough, but it was ten million times better than nothing. Andrew and I spent that night without our Josie...so different from what we'd anticipated. We prayed for her quick transition out of TTN. Throughout the night, Andrew checked on Josie. After the c-section, I was bedridden until the morning. It was pure torture knowing that Josie was just across the hall, but I couldn't physically access her. </span><br />
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The next day was full of more torture. Josie wasn't doing better. In fact, it seemed she was worse. Thankfully, I learned that I'd be able to get out of bed that day to go see her. I clearly remember my mom and mother in law's faces as they came to our room after peeking at Josie through the nursery windows. Both of them had tears in their eyes, and I knew she was not okay. Tuesday afternoon, Andrew wheeled me over to see our baby. We were helpless. Josie was not okay, and we knew this wasn't going to resolve on its own. The NICU doctors came to evaluate Josie further, and the decision was made to transport her down the hall for closer monitoring and observation. I was crushed and relieved at the same time. </span><br />
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Knowing what Josie was experiencing was the worst initiation into parenthood possible. She was being hooked up to monitors, an IV inserted, a tube down her throat into her stomach, etc. We just wanted to make it all better for her. However, this was our first experience of seeing how resillant our Josie could be. She was a little trooper. Josie was placed on CPAP (similar to a breathing machine used to help patients with sleep apnea.) CPAP provides a continuous airway pressure, which is less stressful on the airways than mechanical ventilation. Initially, Josie's settings were high. She was requiring a good bit of oxygen support. However, Josie settled in and began to make drastic improvements over the days that followed. By Wednesday, we were able to hold her. It was the ultimate delayed gratification. I can't remember how long I held her, but I remember two things: 1. How it felt to hold our baby girl, and 2.She didn't cry at all. She just snuggled up close, and she rested. Her breathing even felt normal! It was a moment I'll never, ever, ever, ever forget. </span><br />
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Ever...</span><br />
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Over the next few days, God worked a miracle in Josie. Every day brought improvement, and we were able to watch it all. By Thursday, I had to be discharged home...without my baby. Don't ever take a "normal" moment for granted. Taking my baby home from the hospital was something that I hadn't given a second thought, until our ordeal with Josie. It was such an empty feeling. I'd planned on staying in Josie's NICU room (baptist has an awesome rooming in set-up.) However, with recovering from a c-section (which is doable, but not easy)...I knew I'd need some help throughout the night. I also didn't think I'd be able to get up and down on the small couch bed available. By Thursday night we were giving Josie her first bath (something she should've gotten the day she was born.) Over the next few days, our parents got to hold Josie. I was able to savor every moment of my mom holding my baby. It was truly precious. By Saturday morning, her CPAP was gone and she was breathing normal room air with no assistance. She even got to watch the Carolina/Florida game with us in her room (which we lost). Because of the limited space in NICU and Josie's improved condition, the doctors decided to transfer her to a step down NICU unit. I was apprehensive about it, even though I knew it meant she was better. Sunday came, and we were told that Josie was well enough to go home. However, the doctors wanted her to finish her course of antibiotics. My maternal grandparents and dad held her for the first time that day. I can still remember watching them hold sweet Josie. On Tuesday, just over a week after she was born, we got to take our Josie home.</span><br />
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You may not think so, but I actually left a good bit out of that story. Some good things...some bad things. One thing is certain, God truly blessed us with our little girl, Josie. We will never take her entrance into this world for granted. Therefore, we will never take her life for granted. Years ago, babies like Josie would not have made it. Today, because of God and the workmanship of people he has gifted as doctors and nurses, we have a sweet, smiling, happy girl. </span><br />
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We have had other issues with Miss Josie since then: milk/soy protein intolerance, RSV, two hospitalizations in January, etc. Through it all, God is faithful and keeps her safe and happy. We couldn't be more thankful to him, and we know He has special plans for our daughter. We're privileged to just be a part of her growth and knowledge of God. We love her so much.</span><br />
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I hope you've enjoyed this rather long post of details about Josie's birthday. We're hoping her 1st birthday is a little less eventful! ;-)
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Andrew and Meaganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13996163408410606823noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-103243636225796409.post-51683802736353007402012-11-25T13:43:00.001-05:002012-11-25T13:43:37.960-05:00Yes, we are still here.<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">When life gets busy, your time is stripped down to only allow for top priorities. That's what our life has been over the past few months (well, apparently since April--that's the last time I blogged.) Yes, my presence on the blog is a key indicator of just how hectic the Winburns are. As if having a baby this year wasn't enough, I also made a pretty big job change. By pretty big, I mean something that I bet you never thought a nurse could/would do. More on this later...</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">There's much to update you on....my job change, our baby, our beach trip, our struggles with Miss Josie initially, my hair cut, etc....</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I hope to back track over the past few months of the Winburn adventures with words and pictures. Not now, though! My child is sleeping for the longest time (other than night time sleep)...and I'm getting caught up on MANY things. Like I said...priorities, priorities. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I will leave you with a little picture (if you're not on Facebook) as a sneak peak of my favorite update! ;-) Until next time, which hopefully won't be for months from now!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>Andrew and Meaganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13996163408410606823noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-103243636225796409.post-69371056966409773342012-04-18T20:02:00.006-04:002012-04-18T21:07:53.847-04:00Sweet baby<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KYU35_RPeEM/T49k1ec6Y_I/AAAAAAAAAOQ/dsFVQUo3MCA/s1600/1stUS.JPG" style="font-size: 100%; font-family: Georgia, serif; "><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KYU35_RPeEM/T49k1ec6Y_I/AAAAAAAAAOQ/dsFVQUo3MCA/s400/1stUS.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5732911720536105970" /></a><br /><div style="font-size: 100%; font-family: Georgia, serif; "><span><br /></span></div><span><div style="font-size: 100%; font-family: Georgia, serif; "><span><br /></span></div><div><span ><br /></span></div><span >Well, today marks 13 1/2 weeks for baby Winburn, and they are just SNAILING by (if you ask me!) We were able to see the baby by ultrasound on Friday, and we heard the heartbeat. Oh, amazing, amazing, amazing. I'll never forget it. I started laughing in relief, partly because the heart was beating loud, strong and clear, and partly because there was just ONE baby. Everyone had been teasing us about the "babies," and I was starting to believe them. We would be thrilled for anything, but we're very happy with "just one." We also had the first trimester screening for Down syndrome, trisomy 13 and trisomy 18 (disorders that cause mental retardation and birth defects.) Although this isn't a diagnostic test, meaning that it can't tell you that your baby does/does not have one of these abnormalities, it can give a probability. Hold your horses...this was NOT an amniocentesis...just a finger stick blood sample and information from the ultrasound. We will not ever ever ever have an amnio. </span></span><span >Today, the OB nurse called to let us know that our results were "well into the negative probability range for the test." We're just happy that the baby is "most likely healthy." ;-)</span><div><span ><br /></span></div><div><span >I found this little q/a thing on another blogger's site, so yeah, I stole it:</span></div><div><div style="line-height: 20px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span><span ><em><strong><br /></strong></em></span></span></div><div style="line-height: 20px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span><span ><em><strong><br /></strong></em></span></span></div><div style="line-height: 20px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span><span><span ><em><strong>How far along?</strong></em> 13 1/2 weeks</span></span></span></div><div style="line-height: 20px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span ><br /></span></div><div style="line-height: 20px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span ><span></span><span><span><em><strong>Maternity clothes?</strong></em> Oh yeah, baby. I have been wearing these for weeks. I'm pretty advanced for my gestational age ;-) This could be one big baby. Help! I was loaned some, and mom and dad gave me an awesome pair of Citizens of Humanity maternity jeans for a birthday gift. Love love love love! </span></span></span></div><div style="line-height: 20px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span ><br /></span></div><div style="line-height: 20px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span><span><span ><em><strong>Symptoms?</strong></em> Still some nausea, heart burn/acid reflux, and I just took a nap while writing this post...need I touch more on extreme fatigue. </span></span></span></div><div style="line-height: 20px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span ><br /></span></div><div style="line-height: 20px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span><span><span ><em><strong>Stretch marks?</strong></em> Not yet...</span></span></span></div><div style="line-height: 20px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span ><br /></span></div><div style="line-height: 20px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span><span><span ><em><strong>Sleep?</strong></em> Straight through the the night (if you don't count the minimum of 2 potty breaks!)</span></span></span></div><div style="line-height: 20px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span ><br /></span></div><div style="line-height: 20px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span><span><span ><em><strong>Best moment this week?</strong></em> Eating the eggplant lasagna that Andrew made tonight. Why? It was good, it had meat and veggies in it, I didn't feel sick before or afterwards, and I actually WANTED to eat it! Thank you, Lord!</span></span></span></div><div style="line-height: 20px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span ><br /></span></div><div style="line-height: 20px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span><span><span ><em><strong>Movement?</strong></em> Not yet. However, baby Winburn was moving a lot at his/her ultrasound on Friday. Cutie. </span></span></span></div><div style="line-height: 20px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span ><br /></span></div><div style="line-height: 20px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span ><span><em><strong><span>Cravings?</span></strong></em></span><span> </span>It changes week by week, day by day. Umm, string cheese this week and bananas. </span></div><div style="line-height: 20px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span><span><span ><br /></span></span></span></div><div style="line-height: 20px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span ><span><em><strong><span>Gender?</span></strong></em> </span><span>Not until June...Mom is dying to know since...well, since we told her we were having this baby.</span><br /><span><em><u><strong></strong></u></em></span></span></div><div style="line-height: 20px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span><span><span ><em><strong><br /></strong></em></span></span></span></div><div style="line-height: 20px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span><span><span ><em><strong>Labor Signs?</strong></em> None. Hope to answer none to this question for a long time.</span></span></span></div><div style="line-height: 20px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span ><br /></span></div><div style="line-height: 20px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span><span ><span><em><strong><span>Belly</span> <span>button</span> <span>In or Out?</span></strong></em> <span> Yucko question...innie.</span></span><br /><span><em><u><strong></strong></u></em></span></span></span></div><div style="line-height: 20px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span><span><span><span ><br /></span></span></span></span></div><div style="line-height: 20px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span><span><span ><em><strong>What I miss?</strong></em> Eating healthy (a.k.a. eating whatever I want)</span></span></span></div><div style="line-height: 20px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span ><br /></span></div><div style="line-height: 20px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span><span><span ><em><strong>What I'm looking forward to?</strong></em> I just want to hold this baby. C'mon October!</span></span></span></div><div style="line-height: 20px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span ><br /></span></div><div style="line-height: 20px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span><span><span ><em><strong>Weekly wisdom?</strong></em> Win the lottery. Ok, seriously...just breathe.</span></span></span></div><div style="line-height: 20px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span ><br /></span></div><div style="line-height: 20px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span><span><span ><em><strong>Milestones?</strong></em> I ate something healthy this week. I'm not joking. This is revolutionary. Also, no new face breakouts this week. Woo hoo!</span></span></span></div></div><div style="line-height: 20px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span><span><span ><br /></span></span></span></div><div style="line-height: 20px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span><span><span ><br /></span></span></span></div><div style="line-height: 20px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><span><span><span >Well, that's all for now. I'll try to keep the updates coming. We don't go back to the OB until the second week of May...and time keeps dragging on!</span></span></span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-family: Georgia, serif; "><span><br /></span><div><br /></div></div>Andrew and Meaganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13996163408410606823noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-103243636225796409.post-28786518333173062262012-03-24T10:19:00.009-04:002012-03-28T20:48:41.977-04:00And baby makes three...unless you're including Maya--then four!<div><span style="font-weight: normal; "><span style="font-size: 100%; "><br /></span></span></div><span style="font-weight: normal; "><span style="font-size: 100%; "><div><span style="font-weight: normal; "><span style="font-size: 100%; "><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="font-weight: normal; "><span style="font-size: 100%; "><br /></span></span></div>If you haven't already discovered from the all knowing <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">facebook</span>, then I have some big news for you! Andrew and I are expecting our first little bundle in October! We are so thrilled at the opportunity to be parents!</span></span><div style="font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; line-height: normal; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; "><span><br /></span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; line-height: normal; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; "><span>I am feeling the pressure from some of you to maintain this blog very regularly now, since I always have new and "interesting" things to share. I'd say that ought to be very possible. However, how do you blog at night (after work) when all you want to do is sleep? And that, my friends, brings me to my first point.</span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; line-height: normal; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; "><span><br /></span></div><div style="font-weight: normal; font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; line-height: normal; font-style: normal; "><span><b>EXHAUSTION:</b><span style="font-weight: normal; "> Need I say more? We've all been exhausted before. I like to think of your level of exhaustion as a simple equation. Hard work + little sleep = exhaustion. Well, let's just say that it ain't that way when you're pregnant. I get sleep....great sleep, and I have NO problem falling asleep. Miraculously, I wake up, hit the floor and wham! Exhausted. Do I run marathons in my sleep? What in the world? It's one of the most puzzling things I've ever experienced. I take naps in the afternoon, and I can still fall asleep on the couch by 8:30-9pm. I guess drinking coffee would help, but alas, that brings me to my second point.</span></span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; line-height: normal; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; "><span><br /></span></div><div style="font-weight: normal; font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; line-height: normal; font-style: normal; "><span><b>AVERSIONS:</b><span style="font-weight: normal; "> Gross, gross, gross. I hope I don't get sick just writing about this subject, but here we go! I have never considered myself to be a picky eater. I generally eat what's on my plate and am thankful for it. However, I have never experienced such turn offs with food. One of the worst parts is that I have aversions towards most things that I loved before pregnancy and of course, to most things that are good for me (which I was eating well before pregnancy.) I crave things that I haven't eaten in months, even years! Here's the current breakdown.</span></span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; line-height: normal; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; "><span><br /></span></div><div style="font-weight: normal; font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; line-height: normal; font-style: normal; "><b><span>Can't stand:</span></b></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; line-height: normal; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; "><span>coffee</span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; line-height: normal; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; "><span>most meat (which I was ALL about before little <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Winburn</span>)</span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; line-height: normal; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; "><span>chick-<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">fil</span>-a (yes, I know...who am I and what alien has inhabited my body?)</span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; line-height: normal; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; "><span>most vegetables :-(</span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; line-height: normal; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; "><span>tuna (I can't believe I could even type that)</span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; line-height: normal; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; "><span>eggs</span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; line-height: normal; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; "><span>baked potatoes</span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; line-height: normal; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; "><span><br /></span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; line-height: normal; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; "><span>(and those are just the major ones....there are probably more, but I don't venture out a ton from the list below)</span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; line-height: normal; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; "><span><br /></span></div><div style="font-weight: normal; font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; line-height: normal; font-style: normal; "><b><span>What I can stomach:</span></b></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; line-height: normal; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; "><span><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">kraft</span> macaroni and cheese (I know, I thought it was so gross before.)</span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; line-height: normal; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; "><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">frostys</span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; line-height: normal; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; "><span>white <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">mooses</span> from <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">groucho's</span> deli (heat the turkey to steaming first, of course)</span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; line-height: normal; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; "><span><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">kashi</span> bars (my breakfast)</span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; line-height: normal; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; "><span>smoothies</span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; line-height: normal; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; "><span>ice cream (the little glimmer of hope that I can still like some things that I once loved)</span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; line-height: normal; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; "><span>weight watchers macaroni and cheese/<span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">fettuccine</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">alfredo</span>/three cheese <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">ziti</span> meals</span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; line-height: normal; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; "><span><br /></span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; line-height: normal; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; "><span>And there you have it...now, can we talk about something else? Food makes me sick.</span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; line-height: normal; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; "><span><br /></span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; line-height: normal; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; "><span><br /></span></div><div style="font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; line-height: normal; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; "><span><br /></span></div><div style="font-weight: normal; font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; line-height: normal; font-style: normal; "><b><span>MORNING SICKNESS (a.k.a. "whenever it wants to hit you sickness"):</span></b></div><div style="font-weight: normal; font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; line-height: normal; "><span>I really thought I'd miss out on this part, since my lovely and amazing mother had no sickness whatsoever. The first two weeks that I knew I was pregnant were amazing. We were so excited, and I honestly thought that I'd make it out of the first trimester without having a single issue with this. Boy, was I wrong. I will say this, I haven't thrown up a single time. So, I feel pretty fortunate to be able to say that. However, sometimes it would just make me feel better if I could just let it all out! ;-) I can handle the nausea pretty well at home, but it's the worst at work.</span></div><div style="font-weight: normal; font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; line-height: normal; "><span><br /></span></div><div style="font-weight: normal; font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; line-height: normal; "><span><br /></span></div><div style="font-weight: normal; font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; line-height: normal; "> <i><span>"Excuse me sir, I know I have a needle in your vein and you're concerned about your surgery today, but I'm going to barf! Be right back!"</span></i></div><div style="font-weight: normal; font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; line-height: normal; "><i><span><br /></span></i></div><div style="font-weight: normal; font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; line-height: normal; "><span>At week 10, I feel as if I'm approaching what could be the last few weeks of this feeling. Well, I'm sure hoping!</span></div><div style="font-weight: normal; font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; line-height: normal; "><span><br /></span></div><div style="font-weight: normal; font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; line-height: normal; "><b><span>ANDREW:</span></b></div><div style="font-weight: normal; font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; line-height: normal; "><span>I really hate to brag, but you gotta give credit where it's due. I knew this before I married him, but my husband is pretty much amazing. I can't begin to go on and on about how wonderful he's been through all of this. Just a few things though.</span></div><div style="font-weight: normal; font-size: 100%; font-variant: normal; line-height: normal; "><span><br /></span></div><div style="font-weight: normal; "><ul><li><span>He does dishes while I am passed out on the couch at 8pm.</span></li><li><span>He goes to the grocery store when I just can't stand the sight of food.</span></li><li><span>He cooks for himself when I look at his much loved piece of steak like it's one month old rancid meat.</span></li><li><span>He is excited about this baby, and we are sharing it all together...even if he can't share in all the woes mentioned above. Who would want that for their spouse though? Isn't it enough that one of us goes through it? I think so!</span></li></ul><div><span>Seriously, y'all? How did I end up with this man?? Love you, babe!</span></div></div><div style="font-weight: normal; "><span><br /></span></div><div style="font-weight: normal; "><span><br /></span></div><div style="font-weight: normal; "><span><b>HOW I TOLD ANDREW:</b></span></div><div style="font-weight: normal; "><span><br /></span></div><div style="font-weight: normal; "><span>Most people know that Andrew and I aren't Valentine's Day people. Sometimes, people act like we're party <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">poopers</span> and that every holiday should be overly and (in some cases) unnecessarily celebrated. For those people, you live your lives--we'll live ours. Anyway, back to why I'm even bringing up good old February 14<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">th</span>. Well, folks...now we like Valentine's Day (for better reasons than candy, cards and gifts!)</span></div><div style="font-weight: normal; "><span><br /></span></div><div style="font-weight: normal; "><span>On 2-14-12, I woke up like usual for work around 5:15. Ouch. I suspected that something might be up, so I decided to check. Sure enough, faint line. Andrew's always wanted to be present when we found out we were pregnant, so I figured that I'd wake him up. Honestly, I was so nervous. I had no clue if the faint line was a fluke or not, so it went a little something like this:</span></div><div style="font-weight: normal; "><span><br /></span></div><div style="font-weight: normal; "><span>Me: "Andrew, wake up."</span></div><div style="font-weight: normal; "><span><br /></span></div><div style="font-weight: normal; "><span>Andrew: "Huh?"<br /></span></div><div style="font-weight: normal; "><span><br /></span></div><div style="font-weight: normal; "><span>Me: "I need you to look at this (holding up the test). What do you think this means?"</span></div><div style="font-weight: normal; "><span><br /></span></div><div style="font-weight: normal; "><span>Andrew: "<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">Umm</span>. I don't know if there are two lines..."</span></div><div style="font-weight: normal; "><span><br /></span></div><div style="font-weight: normal; "><span>(long pause)</span></div><div style="font-weight: normal; "><span><br /></span></div><div style="font-weight: normal; "><span>Me: "Well, Happy Valentine's Day."</span></div><div style="font-weight: normal; "><span><br /></span></div><div style="font-weight: normal; "><span>--</span></div><div style="font-weight: normal; "><span><br /></span></div><div style="font-weight: normal; "><span>So now, we actually like, make that love V-Day. </span></div><div style="font-weight: normal; "><span><br /></span></div><div><b><span>OTHER RANDOM THINGS:</span></b></div><div style="font-weight: normal; "><span><br /></span></div><div style="font-weight: normal; "><span>-I'm 10 weeks now, and our next appointment is in April. We're so ready, since we'll have our first ultrasound then! Yay! Fun!</span></div><div style="font-weight: normal; "><span><br /></span></div><div style="font-weight: normal; "><span>-I had to go to the doctor today for some blood work, and the scale shocked me. I sure do hate to admit this, but I've gained four pounds.....FOUR!!!!!! How is this possible? I haven't hardly been able to eat. I asked the baby today (who can't even technically hear yet), "Baby? Is there someone else in there with you?" </span></div><div style="font-weight: normal; "><span><br /></span></div><div style="font-weight: normal; "><span>-My parents have already picked their names for grandparents. Dad will be "G-pa," and Mom will be "BB!" I cannot wait to hear that sweet little voice say those names one day. </span></div><div style="font-weight: normal; "><span><br /></span></div><div style="font-weight: normal; "><span><br /></span></div><div style="font-weight: normal; "><span>Well, that's all for now. Andrew's bringing home a frozen strawberry lemonade for me right now! Gotta go. Until next time.... </span></div>Andrew and Meaganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13996163408410606823noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-103243636225796409.post-89107875010237573522012-01-02T19:44:00.005-05:002012-01-12T20:56:57.095-05:00Things I haven't shared...<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZnpQLAq8NtA/Tw41rV5ZnsI/AAAAAAAAAOE/7ftXzOs2QZU/s1600/brown%2B264.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZnpQLAq8NtA/Tw41rV5ZnsI/AAAAAAAAAOE/7ftXzOs2QZU/s400/brown%2B264.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5696549597398802114" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Happy Halloween, Happy Thanksgiving, Merry Christmas, and Happy New Year</div><div style="text-align: center;">from the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Winburns</span></span> (the never blogging family!!!!)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>Well, the time has come again for my quarterly update. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Haha</span></span>. That is what it feels like every time that I glance at this blog, at least! Honestly, I would update a lot more if it were easier to put pictures up. However, it is not...and I just need to get over it!<div><br /></div><div>The biggest news is probably my job change. I have left babies for eyes. Weird, I know, but I just had to take a look at my priorities. Ultimately, I am so passionate about working with babies and mamas, but I just could not do the night shift hours anymore. Two years was just too much. I felt myself frustrated, physically hurting, and overall...tired...ALL the TIME! I don't wish those feelings upon my worst enemy, because it's awful. </div><div><br /></div><div>I am now working at an eye surgery center, Monday <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">thru</span></span> Friday wish normal people hours. I go in anywhere from 0630-0730, and leave usually by 3-4pm. It's amazing! No nights, no weekends, no holidays...did I mention no 12 hour consecutive night shifts?? Woo <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">hoo</span></span>! Praise God that He saw fit to relieve me of my hospital nursing! I am so happy to be home with Andrew every night, even though it feels like we're learning how to be married all over again. We've been stepping around night shifts for too long, and it's so nice to have a normal life, really for the first time since we married. I'm so thankful!</div><div><br /></div><div>In other news, we have a new niece--Sally Ruth Turner, born on December 28<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">th</span></span>. She is an angel and makes the 6<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">th</span></span> grandchild for Andrew's parents...and the 4<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">th</span></span> girl! We were able to spend some time with the Turners today for the bowl game, and I will say that holding Sally Ruth makes me miss little babies even more. She is healthy and happy, and we're thrilled to welcome her to the family.</div><div><br /></div><div>In other family news, Sara Lynn (Andrew's youngest sister) will begin seminary at Southwestern in Texas this January! It's a huge move for her (and Andrew's mom, I'm sure), but I know she'll have fun out there. Hope she brings her cowboy boots! Andrew's oldest sister, Lara Beth, husband, Jay, Molly, Ellie and Caroline will be moving to Rock Hill soon as Jay takes over as lead pastor of North Rock Hill church. We are excited for them as they take on a new endeavor. A little over one year ago, all of Andrew's siblings were here in Columbia. Now, all except Andrew will have moved away, with Emily Ann and Philip being the closest in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Wagener</span></span>. To say that things will be different around here is an understatement. Cookie (Andrew's mom) loves her family so much, and I know she'll miss having everyone around. We'll miss them, too! If you live near your family, appreciate time spent with them. It won't always be that way!</div><div><br /></div><div>Maya is 10 months old, and as precious as ever. She has become extremely obsessed with her blue <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">frisbee</span></span>. We even got her another one for Christmas, since she in on her way to destroying the first one. She literally sleeps with her <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">frisbee</span></span>. It is the first thing she looks for in the morning, and her one focus is making sure that you throw it for her to fetch. I cannot believe how we have become such fools for this dog. We are even letting her sleep inside (in her crate) on really cold nights. Yes, I know...I said I'd never do that...but I have. We are currently debating on breeding her, although we have some time. Maya has such a sweet nature, and besides natural puppy-isms, she is an unbelievably wonderful dog. She loves to go hunting, swimming, and has already mastered several difficult commands/concepts. Yes, I'm bragging....but I'm serious. She's too sweet. I just get sad at the thought of losing her one day :-( , so the next thing would be to have one of her pups when she's gone. Yes, I think ahead like this! </div><div><br /></div><div><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Ok</span>, enough blogging for now. Until next time!</div><div><br /></div>Andrew and Meaganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13996163408410606823noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-103243636225796409.post-10012180254321214102011-10-25T22:38:00.006-04:002011-10-25T23:24:06.210-04:00::::see ya, wisdom teeth--day one::::<div style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/photos-ak-ash1/v333/197/75/66500585/n66500585_31446023_5363.jpg" /></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">four of these big chompers are gone after today....but I have plenty to spare</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>This morning at 8 o'clock sharp, I had all four of my wisdom teeth removed. Dr. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Dootson</span> told me that I was "the winner" for having all four out. I'm guessing most people don't get all four out??? I would love some feedback on this, because I really thought when one needed to come out--they all came out. Obviously, I'm not a dental medicine pro.<div><br /></div><div>I won't lie to y'all. I was extremely nervous going into the procedure. Don't ask why, because I have NO clue. I don't know where this new found nervousness comes from, but I wish it would go right back! The office staff was nothing but first class, and I would recommend them to anyone! I don't think I've ever been at any practice where everyone is that nice and professional. I made sure to compliment them BEFORE the general anesthesia. Who knows what I would have said on my way out the door anyway!</div><div><br /></div><div>After I pulled myself together, I don't really remember that much. I sat down on this pillow thing, they laid me back, complimented my shoes (sweet!), hooked me up to some cool electrodes, put a pulse ox on my finger, made me take my hair down (<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">uhh</span>...it already looked rough!), I assured those sweet girls that I would be a good nurse-patient, I apologized in advance for saying/doing something stupid, they put some oxygen over my nose, and we waited for the doc to walk in. When he arrived, he told me that he'd be putting some laughing gas through my mask while they set some things up and started the IV. Honestly, I got a little worried. I didn't feel a thing. After he placed the IV, we had a short little conversation that went something like this.</div><div><br /></div><div>Doc: <i>"Well, that was probably the worst part. Most people are actually more afraid of the needle than anything else."</i></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>Me: "<i>I think my mother-in-law is scared of needle sticks, and that's why she didn't have <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>an epidural with four children."</i></div><div><br /></div><div>Doc and staff: <i>"Whoa...."</i></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>Me: "<i>Yeah, and when she had my SON, he weighed 11 1/2 pounds!"</i></div><div><br /></div><div>Doc and staff: (laughing)</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>Me: <i>"<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Ok</span>, I think that laughing gas is working now, huh?"</i></div><div><br /></div><div>Doc and staff: (laughing)</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>Me: "<i>Are you pushing anything through my IV now?"</i> (In times like this, I wish I wasn't a <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>nurse)</div><div><br /></div><div>Doc: <i>"No, we're just getting some things set up...."</i></div><div><br /></div><div>::::::::::::::::::::apparently, that was all she wrote for me. next thing--surgery's over::::::::::::::::::</div><div><br /></div><div>When I woke up, the cool ladies were talking to me. I'm pretty sure one of them showed me her "Halloween design" nails that she did herself. She even made a disclaimer that her right hand wasn't as good, because she's not left handed. Of course, trying to sound like I was totally "with it," I approved of her awesome nails like they were coated in the newest Essie shade right out of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">inStyle</span> magazine or something! Good save, Meagan. I think I was in and out, and I'm sure I said some stupid stuff--due to the laughter that I also heard...in and out. Then out of nowhere, I guess I made enough sense to leave. They put a really cool looking ice pack around my head and called Andrew to the back so that I could get the run down on post-op instructions. It's a good thing that I opted out of singing at church this Sunday, because she said no singing for a week. No singing??? No humming??? I've already discovered that this is going to be really tough. </div><div><br /></div><div>When Andrew and I got home, he ran back out to pick up my prescriptions. I got to the lazy activity that I took part in all day: laying in front of the TV--computer, books, and magazines at my disposal as well. Shortly after Andrew got home, Mom and Dad came to help take care of me, the house, and the yard! Dad worked outside in the yard ALL DAY! Mom cooked, cleaned, and took care of her baby girl. Andrew also took care of me, but was able to get some work done in the office and later outside, thanks to mom being here. My mother-in-law, Cookie, brought me a chocolate "non-<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">paleo</span>" (and no, I do not care!) milkshake. I had just a little, since I'm not used to drinking milk being on <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">paleo</span>. Let me just say--it was the jam! I am so thankful for such wonderful family members! They are so loving and giving, and I just enjoyed them being here! Maya was in her element, since she had my Dad spoiling her all day while he did yard work. At one point, I saw her bouncing along in the truck bed as Dad gathered pine straw. She is worn out, but even Maya benefited from Mommy's surgery and her grandparents' visit. She's so rotten! </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/photos-ak-snc1/v265/197/75/66500585/n66500585_31362444_9005.jpg" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">this is me just hanging out with some friends after the surgery today...see no swelling at all!!!</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Yeah right! Here's the real deal. I know...I know...I look like a dream! <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Hahaha</span>.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://mail.google.com/mail/?ui=2&ik=7ed772768b&view=att&th=1333e19564eb49c9&attid=0.1&disp=thd&zw" alt="photo.<span class=" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>As far as pain goes, I've only taken two <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">motrin</span> and one <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">percocet</span>/<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">tylox</span>/<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">oxycodone</span> (they're all the same). I'm about to head to bed, and I'll definitely be taking some <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">percocet</span> to help me sleep. The numbness finally wore off after about 10 hours. Yeah, it was only supposed to last for 6. What what??? My post-op diet (in order, but not at the same time) has included: water, applesauce, mashed potatoes, chocolate pudding, milkshake, scrambled eggs, and dairy free chocolate ice cream. I think I'm all "<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">sweeted</span>" out for the night. Although, cool/cold soft foods are what really do it for me at this point. I've kept ice on the entire time since the surgery. No swelling yet, but I did eat a lot of pineapple last night in hopes that it would cut down on post-op swelling. We shall see when we compare pictures!</div><div><br /></div><div>Okay, that's enough blogging for me. I haven't even napped today, so it's time for bed. I'll try to update you more tomorrow, since I'm sure I'll still be laying around on the couch!</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Andrew and Meaganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13996163408410606823noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-103243636225796409.post-73588297733417981182011-10-17T00:19:00.000-04:002011-10-17T00:22:51.328-04:00Flash from the past...<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/207963_504081970294_176300222_30139964_9701_n.jpg" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Isn't he a cutie???? Yep, that's Andrew in all his toddler glory! I love that he's still standing with his weight on one leg. Some things never change, I guess. Just came across this picture today and thought I'd share. I know...I know. It's time for another update. However, it's also after midnight, and I need sleep to be able to function tomorrow (by function...I mean, I need to be able to clean this house!) Until next time....</div>Andrew and Meaganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13996163408410606823noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-103243636225796409.post-81194278572067047672011-09-25T22:45:00.000-04:002011-09-25T23:56:17.524-04:00We cheated....[paleo recap]So, Andrew and I cheated on our <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">paleo</span> diet today. It was totally planned, since we recently completed 30 days of pretty strict <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">paleo</span>. As mentioned in an earlier post, we have been planning this day for a while. The verdict:<div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://t3.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcShdDSgYL0FssrGRbgFXd5s7uMY2eL2j0CkeUrMaaCFlgo0y78I" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Yep, we already feel the effects. Andrew is a little worse than me, but he's always had very pronounced tummy issues. Our cheat meals of choice tonight were:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Andrew-papa john's pizza (extra cheese, extra pepperoni, extra sauce, and one 1/2 with bacon)</div><div style="text-align: left;">Meagan-<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">zaxby's</span> chicken finger plate with extra sauce</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I will say that the best part was just knowing I could eat it. Honestly, I don't miss the feeling afterwards. Robb Wolf is right....30 days of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">paleo</span> just doesn't let you "go back" to your old ways.</div><div style="text-align: left;">So, I'm sure we'll stick with the gluten free aspect of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">paleo</span>, but I've loved the positive aspects of true <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">paleo</span> as well. I am fitting into clothes that I'd taken out of the lineup a while ago. "College jeans" have been my favorite new returned wardrobe item!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">*disclaimer: true <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">paleo</span> is eating only raw vegetables* However, for us that's just not completely feasible. So, we figure veggies are better than no veggies at all. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">After reading <a href="http://robbwolf.com/">Robb Wolf's</a> book, <b>The <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Paleo</span> Solution</b>, I'm convinced that we are all <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">celiac</span> patients...just to varying degrees. Your body's just not made to digest gluten (found in wheat, barley, and rye). I also believe that we are addicted to refined sugar and processed foods. I am speaking from personal experience. The proof's in the outcome after 30 days! I have told tons of people about this new lifestyle, and have actually had a lot willing/wanting to try it. So, the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">paleo</span> "lifestyle" is spreading. I think the biggest plus is that this is more than just a diet. Once you get past the initial hurdle of detoxing your body from it's bad food habits, you feel so much better. Some cases have even shown a REVERSE in disease process. Hello? Why would you NOT just at least give it a 30 day try? I will warn you though...it's not for the weak. It will take some discipline. If you have it, go for it. If not...keep feeling like junk every time you eat junk. It's up to you! I'm not saying that you can't cheat every once and a while. I know that we will (especially around the holidays.) However, you'll really start examining what you eat and why. This is the best thing that I learned after 30 days. I'm so glad that we did it, and I can't wait to see how it impacts our health in the future!!!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>Andrew and Meaganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13996163408410606823noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-103243636225796409.post-27872757547244837262011-09-13T01:15:00.000-04:002011-09-19T13:26:20.942-04:00The "health"-y blog post<div style="text-align: justify;">Well, the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Winburns</span> are presently going through some health "stuff" (as I like to call it.) I guess we could break the content of this post down into 2 categories:</div><div><div style="text-align: center;"> 1. Diagnosis 2. Diet</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>1. :::::Diagnosis:::::</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="data:image/jpg;base64,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" /></div><div><br /></div><div>Well, it's official: My thyroid stinks at doing it's job. Actually, it's a little bit of an over-achiever (in true Meagan "Brown" fashion!) To make this <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">waaaaay</span> less shorter and complicated than I could, let's just say this: My thyroid actually is producing too much of the thyroid hormone. The history and road to diagnosis is a really long story, too long for blogging tonight...but I'll try to hit the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">hightlights</span>. </div><div><br /></div><div><ul><li>Fall 2008: My Dr. felt a thyroid nodule during a routine exam</li><li>After a series of tests, the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">ENT</span> suggested that they aspirate (draw the fluid off) my thyroid cyst. Tests showed it non-cancerous! </li><li>Winter 08-Summer 2010: Thought I was back to normal.</li><li>Summer 2010-Summer 2011: I started seeing a slow progression of developing symptoms including: fatigue, body aches, hair loss, weight gain, stomach upset, skin issues, irritability, and the worst of all: Anxiety! Yes, even in normal places, around normal people, and especially before singing or anything where my adrenaline would rush.</li></ul><div>So, this past June--I had enough. I went to the Doctor, and he really dismissed most of my symptoms. However, he did feel another nodule, so he ordered another thyroid ultrasound and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">bloodwork</span> that day (which was normal.....normal!) After having my ultrasound, another (bigger) cyst was found in the same spot as the last one. This time, they found <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">calcifications</span> in it--which isn't always an issue. Not wanting to routinely follow it anymore, the doctor referred me to a surgeon, endocrinologist, and ordered a radioactive iodine thyroid uptake scan. The uptake scan showed that I had hyperthyroidism (actually, fairly bad!) He immediately put me on medication as well.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Unfortunately, endocrinologists (especially good ones) are hard to find in Columbia, so would you believe that I'm still waiting on my October 4<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">th</span> appointment!???!!! I did have a surgical consult with an awesome, helpful and informative doctor. He, although very knowledgeable seemed very puzzled by my case, seeing as how not all of my symptoms or even my lab work matches with hyperthyroidism. Other ideas he has are a toxic <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">adenoma</span> or even a pituitary tumor. Yep, my brain. So, we will know more once I see the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">endo</span>. in a few weeks.</div></div><div><br /></div><div>Until then, I think I'm handling the waiting and wondering fairly well. Sometimes, I get frustrated with "normal" people who take their health for granted. I get angry when I see those who are lazy, when I'd give anything for just one ounce of their energy. I get frustrated than Andrew and I can't even begin to think about starting our family, because I could be faced with radioactive treatment or brain surgery. Not to mention that the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">meds</span> I'm on would be detrimental to a baby's growth and development. It's easy to foster these thoughts and feelings, but then, I'm totally stopped by God's overwhelming peace and His desire for me to completely trust in Him. God never said that this life would be easy, but He has promised to never leave us alone. That promise alone is what helps me stay centered. He is teaching me through this, and for that--I'm humbled and thankful. </div><div><br /></div><div>So, that's that. I'll keep you all posted as we know more. </div><div><br /></div><div>2. ::::Die-t::::</div><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://t3.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQs7qF_TjOSEW7TSBYqzc-a8O00Y0tK_oCNryTnVjV5FfYpfvLrvA" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Yes, you read correctly. I spelled it like "die" with a "t," because that's simply what I felt like when Andrew and I started the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">paleo</span> diet a few weeks ago. I have been begging Andrew for the longest time to try going gluten-free. I believe that he has <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">celiac</span> disease (an intolerance to gluten, which is found in wheat, barley, and rye...or just about anything you eat. His stomach stinks...literally. I mean, he has a horrible stomach, is lactose intolerant, and has acid reflux. Apparently, my nursing knowledge doesn't extend outside newborn babies, because he has refused my advice (and begging) for some time now. About a month ago, I put out an ultimatum: </div><div><br /></div><div>Me: "Andrew, if you don't go get blood work done to test you for <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">celiac</span> disease then we're going to try a gluten free diet to see if you feel better!"</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: right;">Andrew:"Well, if you call the doctor....(and then a line of excuses)"</div><div style="text-align: right;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Me:"<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">Ok</span>, Andrew...it's like this: Either we do something to try to fix this, or you have to stop complaining about it!" </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Now, don't get me wrong. I'm not a horrible and mean wife. I genuinely understand that he complains because his stomach is awful, but I just want him healthy and well. That's the reason for the ultimatums. ;-) Let me also add that Andrew is not a chronic complainer. It's just at times, and I'll stress: it's warranted.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">So, after some influence from our friend and workout guru, Bo, Andrew and I decided to try the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">paleo</span> diet based on Robb Wolf's book. Let me tell. This is certainly a change for us. The foods you can't have would take another couple of hours to list, so I'll just let you know what we eat now....</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">1. meat</div><div style="text-align: left;">2. vegetables</div><div style="text-align: left;">3. fruit (although you should go easy on this if wanting to lose weight)</div><div style="text-align: left;">4. nuts (but of course, not most people's fave: peanuts)</div><div style="text-align: left;">5. fats (oils and nuts are included in this)</div><div style="text-align: left;">6. beverages consist of water, black coffee or tea....not sweet tea (closet fact: I am southern born and bred, and I don't drink sweet tea. Yes, it's true.)</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">So, that means: No processed foods, no bread (since you eliminate gluten on this diet), no starchy <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">carbs</span> (potatoes), no beans (legumes), no dairy, no sugar, and no to most of the things you might find in your pantry/frig.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">To break it down: You eat like a hunter-gatherer would...like a man who lived hundreds of years ago. They ate from land and from sea. It's really simple if you look at it that way. Now, we are actually modifying the diet just a bit in that we cook most of our veggies. True <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">paleo</span> suggests raw, but hey....<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">something's</span> gotta give. I'd love to totally attempt to explain the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_18">in's</span> and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_19">out's</span> of this diet, but you really should just research it or read the book if you want more. It's more than just gluten free. Even gluten free diets can consist of stuff that at the root is still bad for you: gluten free desserts still have sugar, gluten free pasta is still an empty <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_20">carb</span>, and just because something says organic doesn't mean it's good for you. "Naturally" bad is still bad. So, we're taking it a step up and being much more disciplined than just your average gluten free diet.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I will admit that I've cheated a couple of times, and let me tell you: I felt the effects hardcore afterwards. We actually feel much better on this diet, and are trying to stay committed for 30 days. Then, we're modifying this baby. I'm serious. Before modifying though, we're giving ourselves a "cheat" day. Yep, a whole day of cheating. Andrew's already planned out his menu, although Bo thinks that Andrew won't make it til 3pm because he'll be so sick from having gluten again. Here's Andrew's menu:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_21">B'fast</span>: <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_22">dunkin</span>' donuts and coffee (probably with cream and sugar)</div><div style="text-align: left;">Lunch: Jersey Mike's (<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_23">italian</span> sub) <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_24">helllllllloooooooo</span> gluten</div><div style="text-align: left;">Dinner (if he makes it): Papa John's pizza</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">People ask why we're doing this. Well, I explained to you about Andrew, but I have my reasons as well.</div><div style="text-align: left;">1. It makes more sense financially for us to eat the same thing. That, or else I become like a short order cook....one meal for Andrew & one for me. No way!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">2. This diet is proven to help with many health issues, such as autoimmune disorders, like <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_25">celiac</span>. It can even help with thyroid issues. So, I thought I'd give it a shot for this reason as well. Hey, I must say....I do feel better. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Well, that's enough rambling for tonight. We'll keep you posted on the diet as well. 13 days until we get to cheat...officially!</div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: right;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;"><a href="http://www.mylivesignature.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54489/295/1C265C8218EB2EAC12A4C903950C1494.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;" /></a></span></div>Andrew and Meaganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13996163408410606823noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-103243636225796409.post-71506439421180631582011-08-23T22:18:00.000-04:002011-09-13T01:14:43.151-04:00quick trip to Florida<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span">A couple of weekends ago, Andrew and I were surprised with the opportunity to take an overnight trip to Florida. We went to check out a church plant that Andrew's in a coaching network with. Coincidentally, we were right down the road from long-time friend, Rachael and her husband, David! We left on a Saturday night, and we flew back on Sunday night. While we were there, we were upgraded to an SUV, and you just know what I had to choose, right??? Yes, you're right---a jeep wrangler (my dream car.) I think after this trip, Andrew is convinced that he loves the car almost as much as I do! We had a great time!!!!!!!! I was so great to catch up with Rachael and David. We got to see their cute condo and meet Parker and Jackson, their dogs! I just wish we could have stayed longer!!!!!!!!</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); -webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: underline; "><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hikCoTjRds8/TlRjjKdJufI/AAAAAAAAANU/fYyNSJVT2bc/s400/IMG_1591.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5644245688755272178" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 267px; height: 400px; " /><div style="text-align: center;">my usual jump shot on the beach</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cUoUKuHLGFM/TlRlSYzYAAI/AAAAAAAAANk/-PweAwJqAEw/s400/IMG_1544.JPG" style="text-align: left;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px; " border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5644247599572058114" /><div style="text-align: center;">Andrew grooming himself driving down the interstate in our JEEP....</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rMMWvPB0u1E/TlRlR0F18HI/AAAAAAAAANc/oCLcElS_JgA/s400/IMG_1564%25282%2529.JPG" style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 337px; height: 400px;" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5644247589717405810" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-T8A6rRkt3p8/TlRjiRXPHII/AAAAAAAAANE/IHvfGiUhsdY/s400/IMG_1537.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5644245673429638274" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px; " /></div><div style="text-align: center;">dream car!!!!!!!!!!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Wb4XXF6QEOA/TlRjiunFjsI/AAAAAAAAANM/cog8drRbvoI/s400/IMG_1549.JPG" style="text-align: left;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px; " border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5644245681280749250" />It's been WAY too long, Rachey!</div></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt;font-family:Tahoma;mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";color:black; mso-ansi-language:EN-US;mso-fareast-language:EN-US;mso-bidi-language:AR-SA"><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p7I0MnI4B6s/Tm7lIUXKl2I/AAAAAAAAANs/NUxPCFqAnZA/s400/m076.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5651706513464137570" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 265px; " /></span></span></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="font-size: 10.0pt;font-family:Tahoma;mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman";color:black; mso-ansi-language:EN-US;mso-fareast-language:EN-US;mso-bidi-language:AR-SA">Old school Show Choir pic from high school....Yep, that's the year at the bottom right (2000!!!!)</span></span></div>Andrew and Meaganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13996163408410606823noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-103243636225796409.post-92058178557846486172011-06-28T22:38:00.001-04:002011-06-28T23:26:45.567-04:00summer stuff...We celebrated Manning and Ellie's birthdays this past weekend with the family. I can't believe that they're four and five, respectively! We had a lot of spider man and disney princess gifts...even a spider man cake. Caroline slept through the whole thing, although Wyatt attempted to wake her up a few times by pouncing on her and trying to show her how to use a sword. You have to be on your toes around him, especially. Manning and Philip also share a birthday, so we let Philip help with the birthday candles!<div><br /></div><div><img src="http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/261745_630607725566_66500585_33680693_6182204_n.jpg" /></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Happy 4th Birthday, Manning!</i></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><img src="http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/263630_630607700616_66500585_33680692_8331442_n.jpg" /></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Happy 5th Birthday, Ellie!</i></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><img src="http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/269500_630607665686_66500585_33680691_2493360_n.jpg" /></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>sweet Wyatt</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/268940_630608009996_66500585_33680699_2009355_n.jpg" /></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Ellie was very excited about her perfume bottle</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/269925_630608114786_66500585_33680701_5424560_n.jpg" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>these swords were a pretty big hit</i></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/263190_630607550916_66500585_33680688_1081821_n.jpg" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>little Caroline finally woke up at the end of the party</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Maya has found her freedom around the backyard now. Amazingly, she was better when we first got her than she's been the past week or so. Yesterday: she tore our basil and cilantro plants to shreds. Today: she found aluminum foil and newspaper (who knows from where), and tore them to shreds. Later tonight: she pulled an entire squash plant out of the garden. That was it for Andrew. Needless to say, we know who the "dog-disciplinarian" is in this family. I try to make her mind, but that face--it gets me every time! Don't you worry though, Andrew did NOT let this one slide. It was pitiful then, but funny now to think back on Andrew throwing the squash plant at her. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><img src="http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/267495_630606418186_66500585_33680670_698676_n.jpg" /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>TOMS called. They want her as their spokes-person, well spokes-dog. Haha. </i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Don't I wish that were true???</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><img src="http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/271140_630606772476_66500585_33680679_3010311_n.jpg" /></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>How can you say "no" to that little face???</i></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>These pictures of Miss Maya were from last weekend when we let her float around with Andrew in the pool. You can tell how she got so spoiled by looking at these! </div><div><br /></div><div><img src="http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/264140_630606872276_66500585_33680682_1944709_n.jpg" /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><img src="http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/262080_630606812396_66500585_33680680_4758465_n.jpg" /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">:::::::::::::::::::::::::::;</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">In other news:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">1. I went to the oral surgeon today, and it's official. My wisdom teeth are crazy, and they need to come out. Good news for today is, I get to be passed out during the surgery. Bad news for today is, I'm really short on PTO and need to figure out how I'm going to take off for this little ordeal. One of our friends told me a secret to cut out swelling...pineapple! He said he ate tons of fresh cut pineapple before his surgery and had ZERO swelling! I hope to repeat this! However, if I do swell up like a balloon face, then I will certainly take pictures. You just have to have documentation of that.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">2. Krispy Kreme AND Dunkin' Donuts just opened up within a mile or so from our house....seriously, I could walk there in a short period of time. I can't deal with it. It's like I smell it in the air when I drive past it! Help me, Lord. It is not normal to be this attracted to sugar dough.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">3. We are (in this very moment) watching what will hopefully be the last baseball game for Carolina this year. Yes, that's right!!!!!! We made it to the college world series again, and I am home for what could be the the final game! Honestly, it's exciting, but not quite as much as last year. Go Gamecocks!!!!!!!!!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">4. In work news: I have the luxury of changing about a billion diapers a year at my job. However, I rarely have anything happen such as what transpired one night a few weeks ago. I had just done vitals on a baby in mom's labor and delivery room, and I was about to slap him on the scale for a quick weight. Sometimes, (especially with little boys), throwing their naked little selves on a scale really makes them "tinkle." Well, this kid tinkled...all over himself...THREE times! I am happy to announce that with two years of practice, I avoided every squirt. I kid you not though, he filled up the entire bottom of the scale! I have never seen anything like it in my life. At least he didn't get any in his mouth, at least I hope he didn't. Sadly, I have seen that before!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">5. I'm still couponing when I have the time. Last week, I hit the motherload at CVS. I got two things of scotch tape, two pantene shampoos/conditioners, toothpaste, a bag of hershey's chocolate, diapers and wipes....all for $9 out of pocket. Don't get any big ideas....the diapers weren't for us. We gave them to Lara Beth for Caroline! I was so proud of my couponing that day. So worth it....</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Ok, that's all I can think of for now. Aren't you glad I updated the blog twice in a month????? I am!</div>Andrew and Meaganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13996163408410606823noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-103243636225796409.post-14349456684473483292011-06-12T21:19:00.000-04:002011-06-13T00:29:51.745-04:00New niece!<div>Jay, Lara Beth, Mollie, and Ellie welcomed little Caroline Robbins <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Hardwick</span> into the world this past Wednesday! She was 7 pounds, 15 ounces and 19 inches long. She has the cutest little head of red hair, too! Personally, I think she looks like big sister, Ellie! Andrew and I visited Lara Beth and Caroline on Wednesday night before my shift started. It was so fun working that night while they were in the hospital. I will admit-- I snuck down to the nursery a few times to hold her during the night. I felt so special to have held her during her first night in this world. I know she'll never remember it, but I always will! Welcome, Caroline!</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://palmettohealth.org/births/babies/photos/IMG_1410_edited-1.jpg" /></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Just like Ellie...</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iDALDIHjiUo/TfVn6O0-NpI/AAAAAAAAAM8/3UldA1ptQBo/s1600/misscaroline2.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iDALDIHjiUo/TfVn6O0-NpI/AAAAAAAAAM8/3UldA1ptQBo/s400/misscaroline2.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5617510360324912786" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">I snapped this shot while Caroline and I were rocking in the nursery. I sent it to Uncle Andrew so that he could she her pretty eyes open</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Jzt8k-5jteU/TfVn5ryWz4I/AAAAAAAAAM0/hMsxu4blDFo/s1600/misscaroline.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Jzt8k-5jteU/TfVn5ryWz4I/AAAAAAAAAM0/hMsxu4blDFo/s400/misscaroline.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5617510350918700930" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Miss Caroline and me in the nursery. Don't you just love her little hat?</div>Andrew and Meaganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13996163408410606823noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-103243636225796409.post-2167962098133672722011-05-31T20:01:00.000-04:002011-06-15T17:15:06.443-04:00I am...<div><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><br /></div>...officially the worst blogger ever. It's so true. What a double standard that I have. In previous posts, I've complained that our life is pretty normal and boring without anything to blog about. Now, we're so crazy busy with all life's changes that I hardly make time to blog anymore. Oh, the irony!<br /><br />Anyway, since I've been such a horrible blogger over the past little bit (yes, I know it's been three months at least), I thought I'd post some pictures with the updates to at least make up for how slack I've been.<br /><br />1. In mid-February (this is a big one)....<br /><br /><br />We bought a house!!!!!!!!!!!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5609700319985122066" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 267px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iA1PwESdb8o/TdmouDUbuxI/AAAAAAAAAMA/ykQ6iU5sBQc/s400/Sold.JPG" border="0" /><br />We are loving being new home owners, and feel blessed with the perfect house for us...although I'm not saying that it's perfect. We've done a ton of yard work, and the pool has transformed from a "swamp" to the wonderful place the we enjoyed just today after church. It's so nice having some room to spread out, but the more space...the more you need to fill up that space. We're trying to take it slow and do a little bit at a time, but my most commonly used phrase is currently, "Well, if I had a million dollars we could...!" Anyway, we love the new house and are having a lot of fun with it! I'll post some before and after pictures soon, although we haven't changed all too much (except for a pepto pink room or two!)<br /><br /><br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: left">2. We also are pleased to announce the newest member of the Winburn family:</div><br /><br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center">Miss Maya Edisto Winburn<br /><br /></div><br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5609705865732886706" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 267px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-omOxhcjv_No/Tdmtw21vELI/AAAAAAAAAMI/ZauNuuyMNw4/s400/IMG_0693.JPG" border="0" /></div><br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center">here's Miss Priss with one of her sisters on the day we got her</div><br /><br /><br /><p><br /></p><br /><br /><br /><p></p><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5609712901348388354" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 267px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Rav8jKxlsW0/Tdm0KYjL7gI/AAAAAAAAAMo/DOTOj1oEnH8/s400/IMG_0835_1.JPG" border="0" /> <br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center">passed out on the tile kitchen floor<br /></div><br /><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5609705909067628258" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 267px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-M3WaGZvFCbU/TdmtzYRivuI/AAAAAAAAAMg/e1dFvbS3-Yg/s400/IMG_0816.JPG" border="0" /> <br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center">Andrew spoiling her in the den. She is not an inside dog, by the way, </div><br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center">although all of these pictures might suggest otherwise.</div><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HFjAa6vm3mY/TdmtxsdTmGI/AAAAAAAAAMY/e1BgSdf7rC0/s1600/IMG_0767.JPG"></a><br /><br /><p align="center"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HFjAa6vm3mY/TdmtxsdTmGI/AAAAAAAAAMY/e1BgSdf7rC0/s1600/IMG_0767.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5609705880125937762" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: pointer; HEIGHT: 267px; TEXT-ALIGN: left" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HFjAa6vm3mY/TdmtxsdTmGI/AAAAAAAAAMY/e1BgSdf7rC0/s400/IMG_0767.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />asleep on Andrew's bow...precious!<br /><br /></p><br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><br /></div><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-caIpm5IHQ-s/TdmtxZBp1tI/AAAAAAAAAMQ/WC-X7u0DYw8/s1600/IMG_0716.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5609705874909681362" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 304px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-caIpm5IHQ-s/TdmtxZBp1tI/AAAAAAAAAMQ/WC-X7u0DYw8/s400/IMG_0716.JPG" border="0" /></a> <br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center">This was the day that we got her...and she's grown so much since a little over four weeks ago!</div><br /><br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><br /></div>3. My best friend got married!<br /><br /><br />We were so excited to be able to share Chris and Camille's wedding with them in on May 6th! Her wedding was so beautiful, the food was amazing, the band was great, and we had a wonderful time! Of course, Camille was just gorgeous. Chris--glowing at the sight of her. Ahh, love! I need to post some pictures, but my blogger decided to start acting up!<br /><br />4. I turned 27. Yuck! That's all I'm going to say about that!<br /><br /><br /><br /><strong>More news:<br /><br /></strong><br />Our third niece will be here next Wednesday, and we cannot wait to meet Baby Hardwick #3. We also learned a couple of weeks ago that Baby Turner #3 (our 6th niece/nephew) will be here sometime around the new year. So, things are busy with babies in our family. It's exciting!<br /><br />Our church (<a href="http://generationsc.blogspot.com/">generation church</a>) just moved into a new location. We are no longer a portable church! For those of you who have never un-packed and re-packed your church each week, you may not know how truly exciting this is for us! Our new location is 1051 Sparkleberry Ext (right in the middle of northeast Columbia!) We LOVE it, and are truly thankful to God for providing all good things!<br /><br />We're heading to Louisiana tomorrow for a friend of Andrew's wedding. This should be a very interesting trip, and I'm looking forward to spending time with Andrew! Yay! Sadly, we'll have to leave Miss Maya behind, but she'll be in the capable care of my brother and parents over the weekend. We're so thankful for them and know she'll have a fun vacation from her parents. :-)<br /><br /><strong>Randomness:</strong><br /><br /><br /><em>Favorite website right now</em>: zulily.com<br /><br /><br /><em>Most exciting thing right now:</em> New house, new dog, supportive husband, growing church, working with babies, and enjoying it (even if I am a little sleep deprived most of the time)<br /><br /><br /><em>Most irritating thing right now</em>: passive aggressive behavior (If you want to be ugly, just do it. Don't try to be sneaky and pretend you don't know what you're doing. Of course, you "meant it that way...") Disclaimer: I fully accept the reality of my imperfections, but this kind of behavior is just childlike, and I'm coming across it a lot lately. Which brings me to my next point...<br /><br /><br /><em>Most irritating thing about myself lately</em>: Trying to deal with the actions of others that bother me completely on my own and not being honest with the person about it. God is teaching me a lot about this.<br /><br /><br /><em>Most overused phrases in the Winburn household right now</em>:<br /><br /><br /><i>"That's a hot mess..."</i> (meagan)<br /><br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: center"><i>"Mother of pearl..." </i>(andrew)</div><br /><div style="TEXT-ALIGN: right"><i>"Hey Maya-girl!" </i>(andrew)</div><br /><p><i>"Maya-----no!" </i>(both)<br /><br /><br /><em>Best coupon deal recently:</em> free Pedigree dentastix for Maya last month! She loved them. Too bad they're all gone now!<br /><br /><em>Favorite artist right now</em>: Adele<br /><br /><em>Person who should have won American Idol this year</em>: Pia (unreal talent!)<br /><br /><em>Pool temperature today when I checked it</em>: 84 degrees....yes ma'am!!!! Summer is here!<br /></p><br /><p>Ok, I think that's about all for now. I promise, I will try to start blogging more often. However, I've said that before!<br /><br /></p></div>Andrew and Meaganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13996163408410606823noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-103243636225796409.post-30698677770063106302011-02-08T21:54:00.000-05:002011-02-08T23:01:06.172-05:00The Big Three-One!!!!!!<span class="Apple-style-span" >Last week, Andrew turned 31! I'd kept him in suspense over his birthday surprise during his birthday week, and it almost killed us both! Finally, on Friday (his birthday), I was able to let it out! </span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" >We went to...</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><img src="http://t2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQiamDFMM71EmDBT6mpKQsrbMrWqT76-N51IxBWyw1T89FVY2y1" /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" >We stayed at...</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" ><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" ><img src="http://t2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQi0jZNyHt3IaZumoQ5RgEM8GQzVehyJb-Hy4yAfKufUsGtiYWC" /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" >We ate at...</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><img src="http://t2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQLSgdfDnJL1ayiJvhslkIlKvTxQPJzCQ4MzeQDqL_AbBvvfbMH" /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" >(except we were in Charlotte, of course!)</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" >Andrew normally HATES his birthday. He doesn't really care to make a big deal about himself, which is exactly why I wanted to do something special for him. Morton's was amazing. My cousin, Jan recommended it to us. I think it's safe to say that it's the best steak I've ever had. The asparagus was the size of cigars, and we had an amazing piece of key lime pie for dessert (complete with a candle for Andrew's birthday). The servers were so sweet, and they took a picture of us when we sat down. Later, they put the picture in a card signed by the staff. Overall, it was a great experience, and I'd definitely recommend it to anyone! </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" >So...Happy Birthday, Andrew! You are a wonderful husband and my very best friend. I am thrilled to be sharing this life with you and can't wait to live all the great times in years to come! Love you! ;-)</span></div>Andrew and Meaganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13996163408410606823noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-103243636225796409.post-65683702381498901482011-01-26T20:50:00.000-05:002011-01-26T21:59:59.959-05:0026 = the age of forgetfulness<span class="Apple-style-span" >This week hasn't been good in one particular way. It's safe to say that I'm either losing my mind, extremely fatigued or going into a state of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">pre</span>-mature <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">alzheimer's</span>. This is not a joke. Today, I managed to buy a loaf of bread...just like I did on Monday! Seriously, two loaves of bread within a few days of each other??? Just when I thought my brain couldn't get any sharper, I arrived home and my sweet hubby helped me unload groceries. As I popped the trunk open, I totally failed to remember that I had one of Andrew's birthday gifts "hidden" there! At least I got to see the expression on his face when he saw it. He was surprised!!!! It's just unfortunate that it had to be today instead of February 4<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">th</span>. I think I did something else forgetful today, but if you'll believe this...I've forgotten. Andrew is giving me a bed time curfew of 9:30 tonight. </span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" >Fortunately, I was able to use all remaining brain power to "coupon" today. I did extremely well between <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Publix</span> and Bi-Lo. 15cent sour cream, free mustard, free pizza (aka dinner) and Blue Bell ice cream were some of the highlight buys. The ice cream wasn't free, but it's Blue Bell ice cream, so it's normally $7. Any time I can get Blue Bell for less than 1/2 the price, it's a win! </span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" >In other news (and very random news at that), Andrew had a great experience at the gym on Monday. I probably shouldn't get into all of the details, but here we go. Andrew was doing more sets of reps on a workout machine than normal. A sweet little older man came up to him to ask if the exercise put strain on the abdomen. When Andrew said "no," the man told Andrew that he was glad because he'd just had hernia surgery. Andrew politely said, "Oh, yeah. I know that's not fun, because I've had hernia surgery before." Out of nowhere, the man leaned down closer to Andrew and asked, "Does your OTHER testicle hurt??" Now, I was not there to witness this interaction, but knowing Andrew as I do, I think it's safe to say that his face got a little red as he made the jaw-dropping reaction to this question. Andrew quickly responded that his hernia surgery was not in "that location," and the man let Andrew know that his "other testicle" was indeed hurting. After telling the man that he ought to have that looked at, the conversation sort of died from there. Thank goodness! I knew I shouldn't let Andrew go to the gym by himself. It's not the girls in short shorts that I'm worried about. It's Andrew getting involved in a testicle conversation. That, I don't think he can handle again! <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Ok</span>, I can't believe that I just typed this. To be honest with you, Andrew made me. In fact, he is sitting here beside me crying laughing! It is a funny story though, and I'm sorry if anyone feels that this was inappropriate.<br /></span><div><span class="Apple-style-span" ><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" >Well, it's after 9:30 now. We're watching American Idol, and Andrew has given me permission to stay up until 10. Ok, time for bed. </span></div></div>Andrew and Meaganhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13996163408410606823noreply@blogger.com0