Can't keep us down

I've tried to figure out a way to share this, and I keep being met with writers block.
Imagine that.
Me.
With nothing to say.
Yesterday life handed Jake and I a blow that had me reeling. And while we're all still healthy, all FIVE of us (yes I am still pregnant!), I spent a good amount of time cussing our misfortune.
And then I snapped out of it and did the only thing I know to do; I hit the obstacle head on.
Take that, suckers. You can't hold me down.
The Cliff Notes Version of our drama is that my insurance company canceled my policy.
Imagine that.
A pregnant lady with no coverage.
Swell.
After a decent round of pacing the floor, cussing all things politics and society, a few tears and a lot of supportive hugs from Mom, Ashley and Natalie, I got to work on finding a solution.
I also hit my knees and folded my hands in prayer and guidance. But that goes without saying, right?
As it turns out, there are plans in place for women like me.
I mean, I know there's a PLAN for me. I was created for Him. But the plan I'm talking about is an insurance plan.
Imagine that.
Help in time of need.
Sigh of relief.
I'm cautiously optimistic that things will work out. I wish I could be all in with my optimism, but I prefer the look-before-you-leap method.
As for the PLAN. Well the bizarre thing is the new insurance is better than the plan I was dropped from. It's one of those funny silver linings; one of those misfortunes that actually works itself out for the better. How's that for a PLAN.
Imagine that.
He knew all along how this would pan out, even if I was too blind to see.
Open your eyes, Riane.
Today we're walking a bouncier step, our smiles are a little brighter, and our hearts our a little fuller. All because of support and love of family and putting our trust, faith and uncertainties in Him.
Imagine that.
Unfailing love.
No matter what.

Circus performer

The other night Ashley was entertaining us with what could possibly land her the center ring one day. There's no doubt this child was born to perform!
First up us a video of her walking on her toes, literally. She makes it look so effortless that I figured I'd give a shot. I can say with absolute certainty that I would not recommend this. I'm not sure what sort of freakish toes, feet and shins she has, but what she's doing in this video (click here) is NOT normal.
Second video is of her hopping around on 1 foot. Toward the end of her bouncing she starts kicking her leg out like she's doing the River Dance or something. Check it out here (click here).
Such a wild child.
And PS - these vids were taken late at night, just before bedtime so she's rocking some awesome jammers and even more awesome hair. You've been warned.

Ding Dongs...

...for our little Ding Dongs.

Such chocolatey goodness
Saving that bit for later
Turns out it was a bit much for Ashley - wasn't long until she changed into her jammers and cuddled under her blanket to rest off that jam-packed sugar punch

Our evening in pictures

In order to get to this point...
...Jake and I had to tear the old desk apart which meant the bed became the make-shift desk (yes I promise there is a bed underneath that enormous pile of cra, er uh, stuff)...
...it also meant we had to unload the china hutch so it could be moved in order to fit the old desk through the narrow hallway...
...which meant the dining table and kitchen counter became the make-shift china hutch...
...and yes I realize that's a lot of stuff for one china hutch. And no, I don't feel greedy or spoiled. Blessed is more like it.
Good heavens, it's like a tornado went off in this place. And all because Jake got a new computer, which apparently requires a new desk. I suppose it's similar to a new outfit requiring a new pair of shoes. Or something like that...

Folks, we have a baby

Babies are good.
But God is gooder.
Yeah. I said it.
Yesterday morning Jake and I had the opportunity to sneak a little peek at our latest creation. And what a creation s/he is!
You'd think I'd be used to this by now, having already lived through 2 pregnancies. But it still amazes me.
He still amazes me.
I won't lie; things haven't been going great in the baby-growing world. But we're making the best of it, praying a lot and have been told multiple times by my doctor that what's going down is *normal*.
Anyone else have a deep, deep loathing for that word?
During our photo shoot of EB3, we learned that I am over 8 weeks pregnant (8w5d today) and that my estimated due date is September 9, 2012. Jake and I got to sit back and enjoy the show as our very own little kidney bean wiggled and shimmied all over the television screen. And when we watched that itty bitty, teeny tiny heart beating at 180 beats per minute, I finally felt a sense of calm and relief that I hadn't felt in while. I stole a glance at Jake and was warmed by the smile growing oh his face.
It appears this journey still amazes him, too.
So now we sit and wait. Not a very proactive approach (which is my preference), but our only option. Well that and prayer. I can't help but think it's gotten us this far, so why not let it carry us the rest of the way?
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
Philippians 4:6-7
In other words, don't worry about anything and instead pray about everything. Tell Him what you need, but never forget to thank Him for what you have. Then you'll experience peace and your heart will be guarded as you continue to live for Him.
A pretty powerful verse, which is exactly what we're needing right now.
All of us. EB3 included.
As we prepare ourselves for our third journey, we're excited, cautious, hopeful and anxious. But we're also certain He will be there to calm our fears. And that's a great feeling.
Little thirdling, you're already so very loved. So just hold on tight, grow strong and make yourself cozy. Thanks for the great pictures. I can assure you that the few images captured today are just the tip of the iceberg. If I have my way, I'll get to put my camera to work come September 2012. One thing you're sure to learn early on, Mommy is shutter-happy.
Without further adieu, it is with great honor and happiness I present EB3. Nothing more than a small collections of blobs (try to contain your excitement), but already so loved and blessed.

Any guesses on whether thirdling is a boy or girl? Hard to believe the evidence is already there, even though it's impossible for us to tell.
And for those that aren't yet savvy enough to read an ultrasound picture, I've included a labeled image for your convenience. :) Hey, I was once in your shoes smiling and saying "Oh yeah, there it is!" meanwhile in my head saying "Dude, that's nothing more than a bunch of shadows and squiggles?"

Times sure have changed!

Instead of Friday nights out with friends, eating food other people have prepared and drinking drinks I can't even pronounce, it's family meals around the table and an exciting round of building GeoTrax with the girls.
Yep. Times sure have changed.
And I (most of the time) wouldn't change one thing.

Around our house, Daddy is the Champion GeoTrax Designer
Let the racin' begin!

Wordless Wednesday