We're home safe & sound

Jill writes -

I was able to travel to Atlanta, GA, for Arbonne's National Training Celebration (yes, with my doctor's permission!), and we made it home safely on Sunday evening. It was fun to be together with all my close friends, and see many of all of you who have praying for me. I definitely felt that! I had to spend one afternoon in the room laying down because of some contractions, but other than that, I felt great! I think I felt better than a lot of people because I wasn't out late having as much fun as they were, if you know what I mean! :) Jodi got to spend some time with the baby, feeling him move around because we were able to room together. The baby got to attend his first concert, Tim McGraw! It was so much fun.

Since I've been home, it's been tough to try to "plan" the timing of everything to get the Whittemore's here in time for the birth. As you all know, labor & deliveries do not stick to "plans" so we are just going with the flow and changing day to day. Jodi will be flying up on Friday, and Tim & the kids will come soon after. I really feel like the baby will probably come next week, and my body is gearing up.

I woke up last night with a very strong contraction, and I woke up Ryan and reminded him to remind me that YES, I do want to try to get an epidural this time in case I happen to forget!! It was a little forewarning of what is to come. Preparing mentally for the delivery and transition afterwards has been probably the most challenging part of this. I am glad that my mom has reminded me that God is in charge here. That was a relief and encouragement to hear that again when I start to worry about things, even though I have known that all along. I have such wonderful family and friends, and their support has been amazing.

The Nursery Is Waiting!

Having our baby boy's room as a visual reminder that he is really going to be joining our family soon is so exciting! O.K. I'll admit something . . . Tim and I have taken turns sitting in the rocker holding the baby doll you see there. Our youngest, Christian, will be six years old in a couple of weeks, so it has been a while. (translation: we've forgotten what to do, but trust we'll figure it out)

Young Life Baby Shower

I had to post this picture of me and Aubrey Jacobs at our monthly Young Life committee meeting. She is due two weeks before me and why do I look so much bigger? Aubrey, you carry so well!

It's Getting Close!

As the time draws nearer and we are now weeks away, there is so much to think about. Buying the plane tickets for Tim and me and the kids has been tough as we just don't know what to expect. We all want to be there when our boy is born and have been trying to figure out how early we should go. So here's the plan: Jodi is flying up to Seattle on Friday, April 18th. Jill will be 37 weeks and 1 day along. She had Ben, Ethan, and Lindsay all between 36 and 38 weeks, so we are assuming our little guy will be early as well. If we get a call any earlier we'll just hop on the next plane. Tim and Chloe and Christian have scheduled tickets for Thursday, April 24th- Jill will be 38 weeks. We will have suitcases packed and ready to go at a moments notice if anything happens sooner. It's strange not knowing what will end up happening. Jill has had very quick labor in the past- the running red lights on the way to the hospital kind.

I spoke to my doctor about taking our baby home on an airplane when he's less than a week old. We really have no choice, but it's concerning. He said we are fortunate that we will have flu season behind us and suggested I keep him covered and don't let anyone peek! He suggested we sit in the window seat as it won't be as much in the "germ path" and told me to use hand sanitizer like I have an OCD (those are my words).

Baby Shower for Jodi and Jill

My sweet friends Debbie Dick and Kim Beall threw a shower for some of my friends and family. It was so wonderful having Jill and baby boy Whittemore there, it just wouldn't be the same without them. Pictured here along with me and Jill and my daughter Chloe are my friends Frankie, Tracey, and Carley.

I'm modeling my new diaper bag and am still trying to get used to the idea that I will need one!

Jill made this wonderful quilt for the baby. It has all sorts of yummy fabrics and we just love it! Thank you so much, Jill.

Getting Bigger Every Day

Jill writes--

I'm sorry I haven't posted anything in a while! I guess I've been busy with my family, my business, and growing a child! :) It's very humbling to be posting pictures of a huge pregnant belly...and in my pajamas, no less. But, I know many of you are checking back for updates, and I want you to hear how things are going & growing. Ben is a budding photographer and loves to take pictures for me. The baby is very active and healthy. I am definitely getting bigger, and it is difficult to slow down my normal pace in order to accomodate it! I can't zip up and down the two flights of stairs in my house like I normally do.

I have been thinking a lot about the big day, and what it is going to be like. We have all been planning the trip when the Whittemores come up for the delivery. We are looking forward to having our two extended families bond with this new addition! People have been asking a lot lately about how I'm feeling as the date nears. It feels at times like a long way off, and others like it is just around the corner. I feel protective of him, and have a strong bond, like the favorite special auntie, so I am looking forward to spending a few days together after he's born. I better be his favorite!! :) I am sure there will be some tears when they go home. Then, I am excited to have my body back! I'm sure Lindsey is, too, because my lap is very small these days with my belly in the way. Story time can be quite uncomforable in the rocking chair.

Thanks for all your prayers and support! I appreciate them so much, and will continue to need them. Love, Jill

Maui with Jill and the baby

Jodi writes-

My family just returned from Maui yesterday. We were there for a week for my annual NVP trip with Arbonne. Because Jill is an NVP on my team, she and Ryan came too. It was so wonderful to be with Jill and to see how much she is showing. I can't explain what it's like to be laying out by the pool with them (Jill and baby boy) and to have her say, "I'm going back to the room," and to watch her walk away with my son in her womb. It is hardly real. Jill would beg to differ, though. It's very real for her! The highlight for me was during the one day meeting we had, Jill reached over and grabbed my hand and put it on her belly and I got to feel my boy kicking. I had to fight back the tears as I sat there feeling like the most blessed person in the room. I just wanted to kiss her and yell out to everyone there how much I appreciate what she is doing for our family. It sure was hard to say goodbye as I won't see her for another 6 or 7 weeks, but the time will go fast I'm sure.