Life of Riley

I haven't given much of an update on Charles since we've been in transition. He is doing great. I think he understands that this is his home now. We've been to so many places, it's nice for him to have his own room and his own toys. He is coming up on 20 months, and I can't believe it. He is such a sweetie, but definitely testing the discipline limits these days. I think I was warned this would happen. Right before you are about to have Baby #2, your sweet, innocent angel suddenly shows his independence and defiance. I can't blame him with so many changes in his life. We have learned all about time out, and I've thought about the dreaded next step of spankings - isn't this supposed to happen at 2 or 3? With all that being said, he has grown so much lately - he says please and thank you whenever he wants something, hands out huge kisses and bear hugs and absolutely loves the beach including the wet sand and waves. The biggest change I was so proud of was moving to his "big boy" bed without many hiccups. He hasn't fallen out as of yet and only gotten out of his bed twice which is a no-no to do without mommy or daddy. I'm afraid of the biggest change this about to come - a new baby sister...we'll keep praying for that time that he will be just as excited to meet her as we are.

Jacob starts work tomorrow - back to the real world - it's been so nice to have him home with us. He's excited about starting and I'm sure a little anxious. They put him on an easy rotation with the anticipation of upcoming baby so he'll just coast right in. We have been finishing up on our house touches - painting, hanging drapes and pictures, yard work, etc. It definitely feels like our house, and we love it.

I can't believe we only have about a month until Frances arrives. I am now down to my weekly visits at the OB. They found an arrhythmia in her heart that they are monitoring. So now I go two times a week to the doctor to have ultrasounds and non-stress tests. They say it is usually something babies grow out of and just a tiny percentage that it could be a structural issue. So, please pray that it is nothing serious. I can't help but to worry, but God is in control. I wish I could have her, make sure she's alright, and put her back in my tummy to bake a while longer. I hope to post more soon and more regularly....at least until baby arrives!