Saturday, November 24, 2012

Thankful

This month everyone has been posting what they are thankful for each day on Facebook.  I love that people do this and think some of the things they post are just so amazing.  I am sure each of us read these and think how we take those things for granted or how we can't wait to be thankful for those things. There are posts about kids, healing, family, jobs, and even down to the simple things of a warm bed and your favorite food.  I just love it.   I never do it because my FB time is so sporadic and I would feel guilty if I missed.  So here are just 30 things I am thankful for.  The list could be longer, but we will keep it to 30. They are in no particular order, some are shallow and some are deep. They are just me.

1) An unfailing, all forgiving, friend, father and savior. My God.
2) My handsome, kind, generous, love of my life, Prince Charming, soul-mate, hunk Husband.
3) My soon to be little Princess
4) My loving, sweet, all giving, hard working Momma and loving, funny, wise Daddy.
5) Caring, kind, thoughtful, generous, hilarious, amazing examples....In-Laws
6) Three, sweeter than sugar, prayer warrior, care-giving Grandmothers
7) Smart, funny, thoughtful, hard working, protecting Aub and Brother
8) Perfect fit to our siblings, fun, easy going, kind, sweet Randi-doll and Shayne.
9) Soul mate, sister from another mister, brother from another mother, best there ever was. Speed and Sar-Bear
10) The best, my persons, strong, intelligent and determined Tator and Bill
11) Maddy- love of my life, snuggling, never wavering pup.
12) Family- close or far I can count on each and every one of them.
13) Friends-special extensions of my family
14) Job- my favorite, Amazing boss, WONDERFUL company, great people.
15) Education- It can't be taken away, has molded me for many years
16) Home- warm, loving and beautiful. Where I would rather be...always
17) Food- I never have to wonder if it will be there.  I never worry about my next meal. It does more than what it was intended for.  It is always taken for granted.
18) Neighbors- kind, sweet and care-taking
19) Books- increasing our knowledge, entertainment and always a click, drive or store away...taken for granted.
20) Health- for me, my husband, family and friends.
21) Exercise- increase endorphins, keep me healthy and some day loose the baby weight
22) Bed- soft, supportive, warm, hugs me and is always there....taken for granted.
23) Oklahoma City Thunder- enough said
24) Football- at all levels
25) Pampering- a luxury, but makes me feel so treated
26) Warm fall day, no top on the Jeep and a drive to the land with my man. Every time I am thankful.
27) Oklahoma- being raised in a small community and living in a state where every town seems small.
28) Murphy's hot hamburgers- threaten your life, but taste so good.
29) The right to choose my attitude and decide the type of person I will become.
30) The feeling after a long run in the cold.

It's A......

GIRL!!!!!

Little, pink, sweet, precious, perfect, adorable girl.  That's what I have in my belly right now.  She is growing and growing into MY daughter.  Just saying "my daughter", changes me a little inside.

I've ALWAYS wanted a little girl and I always thought I would have her first.  Having a big brother is great and I'm happy that I experienced that within my life, but there has been something that has made me want a little girl first.  Maybe it's the waiting to have the girl that I couldn't stand.  I'm not sure, but my heart could not be more full as it is right now.

I am very excited for the mother-daughter bonding and all things that come with a little girl. My momma and I are very close. We have always had a great relationship throughout my life.  I remember always wanting to be right next to her, a little scared to venture off.  Throughout high school, our relationship grew as I did.  Now as an adult she and I are still very close and most topics aren't off limits.  What I love about my Momma is she can share me.  She shares me with best friends, a mother-in-law and aunts.  She also shares me with my husband.  She respects our relationship and encourages me to make decisions that provide favor to my husband and I.  This in itself may be the very reason I am so excited for a daughter.

We found out on a Tuesday that we were having a littler girl, we sent mass texts to everyone that a gender reveal party was a week away.  This was such a big secret to keep and EVERYONE wanted to know. I was challenged and some tried trickery, but I did not fail.  Some predicted a girl.  My granny and Aunt TT said it only seemed natural.  They couldn't imagine a boy first.  Sar-Bear and Aub just had wishful thinking.

So, here I am driving to work with the amazing news.  I say my morning prayers and special little girl prayer.  Then I start thinking of having a girl and all that comes with it.  I panicked!! How do I raise her to be a strong independent woman and show her being vulnerable is okay? How do I teach her that her intelligence is her best asset, but keep her humble?  How do I show her that taking care of others is why God put us here, but keep her from getting walked on? How can I ensure that she will never be a mean girl, but not get hurt by them?  How do I show her that she can be better than any man that competes with her, but let her know she needs a mate? How do I keep her from being too boy crazy? How do I show her that she can learn to slide and rebound, but lady like manners are necessary? I was a little freaked.  I said an even bigger prayer and realized I am not alone.  I will pray daily for her and show her God's love.  I have a huge circle of women that are just....astounding women. They have accomplished more than I can describe.  Most importantly, she will have Hibdon.

He will be the most amazing example of the way a man should treat a woman. He will teach her how to love others without fear and give without flinching.  He will be an amazing Daddy and she will never be able to comprehend how lucky she is.

Hibdon had his freak out moment as well.  He's not really been around too much girl stuff.  Hon and Aub are tougher than any wrestler I have ever met.  He was a little concerned with what to do with a little girl.  Now, I can imagine he will squeeze his 6'2" legs under a table and play tea party if that's what she wants, but I tried to reassure him he could still do his favorite things. We live in small town Oklahoma, she will probably fish and play sports. He sent the most perfect reply that melted my heart and made it clear we are meant for this little girl.

Now that right there made me fall deeper in love with that blonde hair-blue eyed man.

Hibdon,

You will be an amazing Daddy.  You have this perfect ability to make be feel independent and taken care of,  strong and vulnerable, beautiful and sexy, supported and guided all at the exact same time.  You will do just fine.





Friday, November 16, 2012

Keeping the MomJo

Yesterday I think I broke an ultimate pregnancy golden rule.  I have heard you aren't supposed to do anything dramatic with your hair.  You could regret it. Now you are pregnant with intensified emotions and don't like your hair. Well, I will say to these rule followers they don't have my stylist.

I love my stylist Christa! She does an AMAZING job.  I wish I could put her in my pocket and take her home with me.  I would look fabulous every day. Last night I went in for my "3 month check up" (ha) with Christa.  As I sat down, she asked the typical question.  "What are we going to do today".  I said, "The same thing as last time, but a little darker and maybe bangs." (I really like to be darker in the fall and light in the summer. I feel like my hair is my mood ring for the seasons.) In reality it was pretty close to the same as last time, but I look so different because of the bangs.  I now have blunt bangs across, haven't had these since I was very young. (I have been on the fence about blunt bangs for a few months now.  A girl I work with has the best blunt bangs. Every time we are in a meeting together I tell her how much I love them.  She has been encouraging me to take the leap.) Guess what!  I love it! I feel hot and sassy.  Hibdon loved it as well.  When I walked in the door without pause or hesitation he said "Wow babe your hair looks good!".  Which is obviously a great response, but for him it really is.  He loves it long and blonde. He also agreed the bangs were a good touch. What I love about Christa is months ago in the summer we went almost 100% light blonde and I loved it, new color and look still love it.  Plus when you are at the salon the girls are amazing and tell you how wonderful you look afterwards.  Girls love that.

So I went from Frumpy Monday and hating my over sized clothes and needing a reality check from Reg to new hair and a pop of fun. Also, on Monday (I am embarrassed to admit) a couple of ladies a work with asked another guy I work with if I was pregnant.  He knew I was, but didn't feel like it was his place to tell.  So he replied with "Why do you ask?".  They said, well she has that glow, you know she looks exhausted.  Seriously, I know I look exhausted, because I am.  Growing a fetus is tough work.  However, I can't let my MomJo suffer.  I need to shake it off and put my game face on.  Well, I'm ready and armored with a hot look. My new motto...  As my belly grows, I so does my MomJo.  Seriously ladies I will have preggy swag and I will love it.

Tuesday, November 13, 2012

Don't do that to yourself!

Yesterday I had an awful case of the Mondays.  I woke up late, well I chose to stay in my warm cozy bed longer than I should have.  Then the shower was just as comfortable, I stayed in there a little too long.  Which left me in a rush to throw clothes on.  I didn't make a wise decision in my frantic state. I chose my size too big dress slacks and over sized silk blouse. I looked and felt frumpy.  It was fine for the most part because I was very busy at my desk.  I didn't really see anyone.

I did have lunch with my sweet, kind, adorable friend Reg.  I LOVE her.  Reg has been in my life since she moved to Bdall roughly when I was in elementary school.  She moved with her mom and siblings to my childhood best friend's house, Duke.  Reg's mom and Duke's dad were a couple.  Duke went from an only child to 5 step siblings. Duke and I loved to hang out with Reg and her older sister Shel.  I only have Big Brother, so Reg was the older sister I never had.  She taught me much about fashion, at the time it was matching your Pepe shirt to the logo on the pocket of your Pepe jeans and ultra faded buffalo jeans.  She has always been great with advice and a heart bigger than Dallas.

So Reg and I had a lunch date and we chatted, chatted some more and then even more.  What I love about her is she gives genuine, honest compliments.  I was bundled in my coat, only my face showing and she told me I looked really pretty.  That makes a prego feel good.  As we were walking back to work I was telling her how frumpy I felt because of my wardrobe choice. She responded with the best comment, "Don't do that to yourself!" You can be hot with tight fitting clothes.  She knew what I needed to hear.

As I was thinking about this on the way home from work yesterday, I remembered the Gulianna and Bill episode I caught while folding laundry.  Gulianna was trying to find ways to keep her "MomJo" after the baby.  Between this and my conversation with Reg, I knew I couldn't do this to myself.  I have an adorable baby bump and my hair is healthy and strong (shout out to the vitamins).

So last night I prepped my outfit.  I woke up early with Hibdon and had plenty of time to get ready.  I even made a dish for our work Thanksgiving dinner and made a lunch for Hibdon. I wore my brown/black stripped sweater dress, favorite black tights, new brown boots and jewelry straight from Courthouse Designs. I also curled my hair and put it in a side pony. I was looking good and on top of my game.

I left on time, did a quick mirror check and dusted my shoulders off.  I did well today friends.  MomJo in tact.

Wrestler or Cheerleader?

Today we had our two week check up.  I have had closer appointments due to my thyroid, so now that I am approaching my second trimester I am on a regular schedule.  Today's appointment was a little special.  WE KNOW WHAT WE ARE HAVING!!!

This secret seems harder than keeping the pregnancy quiet.  We only have to keep it in for a week.  We are having a gender reveal party next week.  My Aunt TT offered to host it at her house.  We have invited family and friends to join in the celebration.

I am just beaming right now, I just can't believe I know what Baby H will be!!! Here's a play-by-play of the appointment.

We arrive 15 minutes early like good patients.  Then we sit for and hour.  After noon appointments work the best for us, so we were literally the last patients to be seen.  Ohhhmygosssh, that was the longest wait ever. Thankfully, my doctor is pretty goofy so he kept the mood light.  We get in the room and the nurse is taking my BP, which was great.  He pops in and says, "What's up Prego?" I'm a little tired by this time so I just gave a polite "Heeey".  Then he perked me up real quick.  He said, "Want to find out what we are having?" Best question a doctor could ever ask you.  So he got started, first we listened to the heart beat, he explained girls have faster rates than boys typically, but it's not really 100% accurate.  Then he did the regular 3D ultrasound and said "Welp let's start painting the room....." I'll leave the color he said out.  That's a fun secret Hibdon and I will keep for a week. Then he did the 4D, which is crazy at this stage, Baby H is two inches long and just perfect.  There was even a little shot in the 4D in which we could see Baby H's bicep, it was very defined. Just like his/her Momma. :)  The doctor pointed out Baby H's definition which made me do a belly laugh.  He gave a ton of pics and then put them on our flash drive.  So we can make copies for everyone.



I'm so excited to reveal.  Will E have a rough little boy to wrestle with or will he have to make a tomboy out of a sweet little blonde princess?  Will Bentyn have a practice partner in the wrestling room? Will Levi have a buddy to fish with?  OR will Jade have a friend to play barbies with?  Only a week away and we will find out!

Sunday, November 11, 2012

Avocados and Tomatoes

I'm pregnant and I love food.... gee could you y'all have guessed that?  I haven't craved too many crazy things.  Baby H is just fueling my desire for the foods I tried to avoid to keep my girlish figure.  The urge to eat peach rings, gummy bears, cherry laffy taffies and snickers is so strong and deep.  I mean this urge blocks all clear thinking.  It eliminates the rational side of my brain. Last night I ran to the store for a "quick item" to complete dinner. I purchased peach rings, cherry laffy taffies and cherry blow pops. Hibdon didn't say a word, just gave a cute laugh. He's been pretty good about my cravings.

I will say something I have been craving that is very healthy has been tomatoes and avocados. Yesterday the weather was warm and windy, not really the comfort weather I have been wanting to have some tomato soup or a grilled cheese with avocados.  So today God sent me the perfect comfort weather.  Its 48 and raining, some are reporting sleet.  I LOVE IT.  I am snuggled up with my pup and a good movie.  I sure wish the Christmas movies were playing now.... Any way back to my comfort food.  Today I made the most delish panini.  Recipe below. 

Garlic and Herb bread
Sliced Tomato
Sliced Avocado
Fresh Spinach
Fresh Basil 
Cheese 
Dash of mayo
Grilled to perfection
Seriously finger-lickin good.  I'm about to have another one,  just thinking about its deliciousness. 

So craving was met.  THEN I get a text from Sar-Bear.  She said family night was at her house after church tonight.  Guess what she is making for Baby H's cravings!!! Guac, not just any guacamole... Aunt Sar-Bear's guacamole. She makes the absolute best guac. I plan to eat the entire bowl of guac.  I hope Hibdon doesn't plan on eating any.  I'll tell y'all her ingredients, but I don't have permission to reveal the entire recipe.  Plus, I don't think there is a recipe.  I think it's just one of those perfect recipes that she just knows the right amount. 

Roma tomatoes
Avocados
Cilantro
Jalapenos
White end of green onions
Juice from a lime
Juice from a lemon
Salt 
Pepper

She does a rough chop, it's almost a salsa and not your typical creamy guac.  Oh lord, Baby H is going to be happy flips in my belly.  Nothing makes a pregnant girl happy more than a craving met.   

Saturday, November 10, 2012

Must Love Dogs

If I were to create an ad in search for Baby H, I would most definitely add the list below.

1) Must love to sleep at least 8 hours a night
2) Must love to nap
3) Must request to snuggle and rock in order to nap
4) Must love all fruits and vegetables
5) Must hate sweets
6) Must obey everything I say & never forget the rules
7) Must love to read
8) Must never get sick
9) Must love weekend get-a-ways to Gpa & Hons, CCs, Papa's, Uncle Wil & Aunt Randi's, Uncle Shayne & Aunt Aub's, and Uncle Speed & Aunt Sara's
10) Must love to help with chores.

So obviously Baby H will probably not meet these requests and I will still love him/her with every fiber of my being.  Hey, a girl can dream!

While the never ending child development theory of Nature vs. Nurture is the influence of what Baby H will love it will be interesting to see his/her favorites.  I am sure there will be a lot of nurture things that Baby H will love.

1) Dogs- we love our Maddy Dog and all dogs for that matter.
2) Football- ESPN is fixed on our TV during the weekends.  Game Day and Red Zone..enough said.
3) Oklahoma City Thunder- I can't put into words my love for this team
4) Hot hamburgers- Texas toast + burger + cheese + fries + brown gravy over all = HEAVEN
5) Outdoors - Summer, Fall and Spring...sometimes even winter
6) The water- Every summer will be spent either on Papa's boat or in Aunt Aub's pool
7) Jeeps- we have two, Hon has one,  Uncle Wil just sold his, Aunt Randi has one and Papa used to have one
8) Wrestling- boy or girl, Baby H will understand the Hibdon passion for the mat
9) Fishing- boy or girl, Hibdon will load Baby H and Maddy in the Jeep, drive to his favorite little pond, eat ranch flavored sunflower seeds, listen to Eric Church and just fish
10) Family time- We love it, we love nights at Aunt Aub's, Aunt Sara's or when we all gather here.  We love when CC comes to visit. We love relaxing at Gpa and Hon's  We love staying with Mema and seeing Papa.  We love Uncle Wil and Aunt Randi's. We love family time-we need family time.

Things that will probably come natural to Baby H, good or bad Baby H will probably inherit these traits.

1) A ghetto booty- Sorry Baby H, Daddy and I both have one.  It will give you power when you swing the bat, but finding jeans is stressful.
2) Love chocolate & have a sweet tooth- This is dangerous, but Hibdon and I love to snack
3) Hairy arms- Ugh so embarrassing! At least it will be blonde.
4) Big Smile- Both Hibdon and I have large teeth.  I think it makes for pretty smiles.
5) If Baby H is anything like Hibdon he/she will be fast, a great athlete and insanely competitive.
6) Let's face it, competitive will be natural.  We both are.
7) Laid back.  We don't typically sweat the small stuff.
8) Optimistic. Glass is always half full with us. We are content with knowing things are meant or not meant to be.
9) Chatty- Hibdon and I both received the gift of gab.  Baby H will probably just keep up.
10) Cold natured- We love electric blankets and space heaters.

Making these lists spark an excitement for me.  Will Baby H look more like me or Hibdon?  Will Baby H naturally like all the things we do?  Will Baby H be the angel that I was as a child or the rowdy boy that Hibdon was.  Its blogs like these that make me want the next few months to fly by.


Wednesday, November 7, 2012

Public Service Announcement

I have a confession.  Oh gosh I am just embarrassed, actually ashamed. I don't even know where to begin.  I just need to rip it off like a band-aid.  Here goes...

Yesterday as I am driving home from work, singing along with the radio and getting excited to head to the polls, my phone chimes.  I have a text message.  I am driving and I have promised, sworn, looked Hibdon straight in the eye and said..."I won't text and drive". I even promised him to use the bluetooth feature every time I am driving.  This was pre-pregnancy folks, you can imagine the sternness in Hibdon's voice about texting and driving in my new condition.

So I ignore it and of course my friendly iphone chimes again to remind me there's a text message waiting to be read.  I try to look out of the corner of my eye to see who it is.  I can't, but I keep thinking I want to read it.  Turn the music up loud to drown the temptation. It did not work.  I caved, I told myself I will just look at my phone.  Just check to see who it is.

Wellllllll, it was my favorite, favorite, favorite friend Kym.  Kym lives in OKC with her hubby Hardin. Hardin and Hibdon played baseball together.  They kept in touch and married amazing women. I am so thankful Hardin married Kym.  I get to spend time with her!  We see them on occasion and it's the BEST time ever.  Hardin and Hibdon are seriously two peas in a pod.  Kym and I just go with whatever crazy scheme they come up with.  We don't go because we are gullible, we go because someone has to reel those two in.  They get a little wild together.  I love the Hardin's and I love that Kym is in my life. She will be a great Aunt for Baby H.

So now that you know Kym, you could understand why I was so excited to see her text.  I couldn't wait to see what it said.  I read it and told myself a quick reply will be fine. Bad right? Texting and driving, such a no-no.  Well, I am so embarrassed to report this, literally ashamed.  I am reliving this event right now and my face is red.

As I hit send on the text message I look up.  I had to slam on my breaks, full force slam.  There was a bright yellow school bus in front of me slowing down to turn.  I was also speeding slightly, just to add icing to my guilt stricken cake. Hey, when in Rome, tell all your secrets. I did not hit the bus I am so thankful to report.  Also, there were no other cars around.  I don't think the kids even noticed.  It was scary for me though.  I did pull over and the event was slow motion in my head.  I calmed my nerves and said a huge prayer.  I thanked God for not letting anything bad happen to that school bus full of kids, I also was thankful that Baby H and I are safe.  As I drove off it hit me that, those were some one's babies on the bus and that was some one's Daddy driving.  How could I be so careless?  How would I feel if that happened to Baby H someday? Praise God nothing happened and I able to learn a valuable lesson without any true consequences.

Moral of the story is it's not worth it people.  It can wait. I will NEVER text and drive again. Won't do it. Man I am going to get an earful when Hibdon reads this.    

Terrible Momma Strike One

I am going to blame this on a pregnant brain, 12 weeks isn't too early to use that as a crutch....right? I know, I know it's too early.  I am such a bad Momma.  I mean really, I should be disgusted with myself.  The other day Hibdon reminded me that I have forgotten to mention my sweet baby girl in my blog.  Yes this is the first time I am pregnant, but I have had a baby girl for the past 3 years.  Her name is Madison.

Madison came into my life when I was moving into an apartment by myself for the very first time.  I was pretty nervous to stay alone and Hibdon knew it.  He tried to be there as much as he could, but he had responsibilities and they weren't in my south Tulsa apartment.  So, he bought Maddy, my boxer-dog.

Okay, okay if you aren't a dog person this post seems silly, maybe even dumb.  Guess what its because you aren't a dog person.  If you are a dog person, you just said "bless your heart".  You can simply relate with the guilt I feel for not mentioning Maddy in my first post, let alone waiting until post 7. SEVEN people! Bad, bad, bad, Momma.

As I said, Hibdon bought Maddy for me as I was moving on my own.  She was such a special gift to me.  I loved her instantly.  She loved to snuggle and still does.  She was quite the wild woman when she was a pup, she has slowed down....slightly.  She is a true boxer, crazy girl.  She loves visitors and wags her entire little booty when she seems them.  She and Hibdon wrestle and howl almost every night.  When she gets tired she comes to my side, gives me a little whine and curls up next to me.  She will sleep for hours right by my side.  Mad-dog has always been a bit of a Momma's girl, probably because it was just us in that 1050 square ft. apartment.  She loves Hibdon and gets a little jealous when he shows me affection.

Maybe I am crazy, but I have heard dogs know when you are pregnant.  SIL also has a boxer, Andre.  He was very much her husband's dog and had nothing to do with SIL.  When she became pregnant with E, Andre started sleeping on her side of the room and followed SIL around.  Maddy has always slept on my side on the room.  She has been extra clingy here lately and less likely to sit with Adam.  She tries to get right by my side at all costs, regardless of how comfortable it is for her.  She now follows me to every room, up the stairs and even waits by the bathroom door.  You can imagine how many times she has just laid right in front of the bathroom door here lately.  Sometimes she even whines when I close the door.  I am not sure if she is mothering me and this is her form of care taking, but it's just presh.  IDK, maybe she knows these are the last days of her being the Baby Dog.  Maybe she is trying to soak up all she can.

Well, I say let her.  I love it and I love that furry, loud snoring, booty wagging, mean girl howling, bowing on command, sweet faced baby girl.  I can take all the attention she wants to give. I just hopes she can't feel the guilt I have of waiting for seven posts to express my love for Maddy.


Tuesday, November 6, 2012

Start Spreadin' the News

I just love that song when there's good news to be heard.  Now I just imagine myself in a black sparkly get-up, tux jacket with tails and tall black hat.  I'll do a high kick, baby bump exposed and I'll sing loudly, "Start Spreadin' the News".

Okay, so maybe our announcement of Baby H was a little less elaborate.  I will say surprising everyone and hearing their excitement was the most fun.  It's hard to describe how special it was to share this excitement that had been building for months.  Hibdon and I found out about Baby H at the end of September.  You've heard the story, it took us a little while to let it sink in.  I have also had some issues with my thyroid, they made me unsure that the news could be true.  Lastly, we experienced a loss with two people who are so very close to us. This made my anxiety rise even higher. So on October 29th we had an appointment and got the green light to....you guessed it... Start Spreadin the News!!!

Big Brother and I at our favorite tailgating spot in Fayetteville
Radi-Doll and I at TT's Oktoberfest 2011
I will say we did tell a couple a little early, well a lot early.  Big Brother and Randi-doll were the first to hear.  Hibdon and I made our new traditional trip to Bella Vista to see Big Brother and go to a Hogs game. We love this, we ALWAYS have such a good time.  I also love a good battery recharging at Big Brother's, in the middle of the Ozarks.  So here's how it went down... Big Brother and I were walking Marly and Yella Dog.  Big Brother tells me some great news, he raises his hand to give me a high-five. I freeze, I don't say congrats, good job, proud of you.  It just came out, I had an out of body experience. The words slipped out and there in the middle of the Ozarks, I said it. "I'm pregnant".  He let out a big laughed and grinned real big, looking just like Daddy.  He gave me a side hug and we kept on walking.  Randi-doll heard the news via email, all the way in Italy.  I'm sure she ate an extra plate of pasta for me.

CC at Olive Garden
After keeping it a secret for the month of October, I for one was relieved to tell my big secret.  I haven't ever been good at keeping secrets. I'm somewhat of a chatty Kathy.  So, it started with my Momma (Baby H's CC).  CC and I went to Olive Garden for our usual Mother-Daughter date.  I purchased a cake and had all the different names for Grandma written on it.  I slid the cake in front of her, she was confused.  I then showed her the ultrasound pictures. She said, "Well, how about that".  She was shocked.  She's not shocked anymore, she's beaming with excitement.  She will never be called grandma, but she will love the sound of Baby H wanting CC.  


Hibdon at his MBA graduation in 2011
The next to know was Gpa and Hon.  Hibdon had an elaborate plan from day one of Baby H.  He wanted a big family dinner, a prayer and he was going to blurt it out.  Well, I let Hibdon do the planning.  He's a boy, it didn't go well.  So once his plans fell through, he made a mad dash to Barnsdall and told Gpa and Hon they would be enjoying a new grandbaby.  They were excited. I'm still waiting their pic, but here's one that I love from 2011.
Shortly after it was Papa, he had just gotten home from the school.  He walked in and I told him, I have a present for you.  I pulled the framed picture out and he was slightly confused.  I then asked him if he wanted to be called Papa.  His eyes got misty and he smiled really big.  He had been wanting a grandbaby for a while now.  So, he was a little excited when he heard his baby was having a baby.

Papa holding his new pride & joy
Aunt Sara Beth and Aunt Aub
Then we told our crew.  Uncle Shayne, Aunt Aub, Uncle Speed-dog and Aunt Sara Beth.  The turkeys already knew.  They had been watching our every move the past 6 months hoping for a sign.  Of course it became more obvious the last month.  So just in case we were going to tell them, they were prepared.  There was a signed card, sparkling grape juice, hugs and I held back tears.  We were excited, E even gave us an applause. 






We then told the rest of our friends and made a FB announcement.  You know to make it official.  Tator knew a little early, I can't keep things from her.  Bill heard that day via text message, she was a little busy.  Now we have changed our group conversations from randoms to Baby H talk.  
Bigheart Day 5k with Bill & Tator
Kayla & Jade, Kristin & Levi, Meghan & Bentyn, Baby H & Me 
The last group to be surprised are three of my sweetest friends.  All moms and all amazing women.  There's Kayla whom I have grown up with, lived just down the street from her.  She also married a man that has been like a brother to me from birth.  There's Kristin, my soul sister.  She married my cousin Russ and it made my life complete.  Kristin is also the future care-taker of Baby H when I return to work.  Lastly, there's Meg, sweet Meg.  She is new to my friend life and I swear we are on the same wave length.  We had great lunch time convos about life, religion and politics.  She has been gone for 49 days (so my instant messenger at work states).  She's at home with one of Baby H's future playmates, Bentyn.  Telling these girls was fun. Here's the setting...McAlister's at lunch, we all gathered our food and had a seat.  We are talking about their babies and adoring Baby Bentyn.  Then I tell them I have a CRAZY story.  I start with something about the movie filming in town, throw in a work comment (it was the most random story).  My heart is pounding, hands are shaking and I am try my HARDEST to mask my smile.  Then I say, "I'm just kidding, I'm pregnant".  Meg almost chokes on her food, Kristin gasps and tears start to come and Kayla had a look of total shock then straight to a smile. It was so fun telling them.  I can't wait, I really mean it.  I am so excited to see our babies grow together, play together, learn from one another and become great friends. Maybe some day Baby H will sit down at a table with Jade, Levi and Bentyn to spread the news.

'Merica

Today Hibdon and I took our little Baby H to the voting polls, hopefully like most Americans.  I must say I have anxiety about voting.  I try to be responsible with exercising my right to vote.  Hibdon and I watched all the debates, I read all the reviews on not only the Presidential election, but local candidates.  I reviewed the questions on the ballot, weighed the pros and cons.  I have also been praying for this day.  

For some their votes were easy, they see things clearly with no middle ground. Hibdon and I have both expressed how confused we were with this election.  We both were slightly uncertain, we actually changed our minds after the last debate.  I know there are parties and some Americans are strict to their party decisions.  I believe we were confused at some of the great things our current President has accomplished, but fearful of some the things he hasn't accomplished or wants to accomplish.  We don't see his opponent as a devil in a $1000 suit, nor do we see him as the saving grace to our country.  In elections past I have felt as if it was picking between the lesser of two evils.  Maybe it's my pregnant heart, but I like them both.  I care about them both.  I care that both of them are in positions of power, leading people and making decisions on their behalf.  I pray that they pray, they make each decision with care.  Now I am certain that the above paragraph will offend many people within my family and circle of friends.  I'm sorry, I just don't see it clearly.  What I see is what I wish we all could be.  

Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged. It does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance.

I wish we all could love like this.  Love doesn't care who you vote for, what party you claim or what box you checked.  It just doesn't, never has, never will. 

I will say I voted, I was proud.  I exercised my right and it felt nice to do so.  I had such a thankful heart walking into a church to do something that others have fought to keep safe. As I was standing in line they called the 1000th voter.  This voter made my heart swell.  He was a very tall, red-headed man.  He was wearing his military uniform.  The building was excited that he was the 1000th voter. I love America. 

Seeing him made me so thankful that I got to vote.  It reminded me that my Papa fought for our country. I have circled around my Mema's dinner table and grasped hands as my aunt prayed over our Thanksgiving dinner, she prayed a special prayer for my cousin Shawn.  He was leaving for his second time to fight, just days later.  I thought about my sweet baby cousin Ricky.  Praise God he hasn't left the luxury of Florida, but his name is on that list. I will fall apart if he's not safe. 

Regardless of who we vote for, in the beautiful picture of life it's a very small image.   I serve a God that loves both parties.  I know Baby H will vote one day and I'm afraid the lines will become even more unclear by then.  My prayer is that Baby H will vote with a prayerful heart. 

Monday, November 5, 2012

SIL and Sar-Bear

I was raised with Big Brother.  He was great at protecting and teaching, but we didn't talk about boys, make-up, hair or fashion.  We didn't talk about feelings or people.  While our conversations have evolved there's still a difference between girl talk and Big Brother talk.  I love him dearly, but he just can't hang.  He can't hang because I have the best of the best.  I have my SIL and Sar-Bear.

I love them both more than words can describe.  They both seem to baby me, which I kind of like.  They are both the same age, love all the same things (including this ridiculous obsession with salt). So, I'm definitely different from them.  I have emotions, they are like rocks. They don't need men really, but I need Hibdon.  There's something about the two of them that makes me feel loved and right at home.  They keep me sane when I'm irrational, but they are the first one's to take my side.  Even SIL over her baby brother.  She almost always sees it my way.

Tonight as I am sitting here enjoying the delicious dinner that I finally had energy to cook, the door bell rings.  Slightly creepy because it's 7:30 and Hibdon is still at wrestling practice. Who is at my door? SIL and Sar-Bear, with a gift basket.  Just a pregnancy gift basket. This basket included the following: bath pillow, box of chocolate turtles, sparkling grape juice, candles, lotion, bubble bath, chap stick, Tylenol, slippers, soft socks, brownie mix and a very special painting from E.  E is my nephew who is too special to mention here.  He will need his own post.

This basket melted my heart. Like I said, they take care of me. Its like God knew I need two big sisters. He knew I would need SIL to tell me what medications are safe and which ones to stay away from.  He knew I would need her advice on how to handle Hibdon when he got out of hand.  He knew I would need Sar-Bear to ALWAYS be there, to be my roommate, cousin, best friend, running partner and encourager.  He knew I would need them.  Best of all because God knew I would need them in my life Baby H will never know what its like to be without an Aunt Aub or Aunt Sara Beth.  Baby H will be spoiled be their love, comforted by their hugs, rocked in their arms and many many stories will be read.  I just hope they don't give my kid salt.  Those girls are out of control.

I love them, a lot.

Here's the painting E made me.  This made the basket perfect. Pretty sure those are strokes from a pure genius baby.


Daddy goes to Wrestling Practice

"Whatever a leader does now sets up what he does later. And there's always a later."- Coach K

While I am more of a Roy Williams and Tarheels fan and its very hard to use a quote from Duke's very own Coach K it seemed pretty fitting for this post. Regardless of your ACC preference Coach K will always be one of the most influential coaches of all time.

You may be asking did I use the right sport in the title.  Why yes I did.  I'm getting to the connection.  Hibdon and I have a common bond with our upbringing.  Hibdon had an amazing man in his life, his dad.  Baby H will call him Gpa.  Gpa is not only a remarkable husband, father and father-in-law, he's also been a key factor in mentoring many young kids in the Barnsdall community.  Gpa has spent the past 20+ years as an elementary wrestling coach.  He has the perfect amount of patience, encouragement and sternness to keep a room full of 6-12 year olds engaged and inspired to be the best wrestler on the mat.

I also had an amazing coach in my life.  I call him Daddy, I believe Baby H will call him Papa.  Papa coached everything basketball, football, baseball, softball and for all age groups.  If Big Brother and I were playing it, he was on the sideline.  He even received Oklahoma awards for the time he served as a junior high basketball coach.  He was great at motivating us to be the best and challenging us to use our brains, think smarter than your opponent.  No matter what game it was and whether he was sitting in the head or assistant coaches seat he would know my stats at any given moment. He loved the sport and had a heart for those kids that didn't have the same support I did.  

Being a coach's kid gives Hibdon and I a special bond.  We understand the pressures of a last name.  We know what its like to walk into a gym and people automatically know who you are.  Not your name, just that you're the coach's kid.  While Hibdon felt the pressures to perform on the mat more than I did in the gym, we still had the additional pressures of the older sibling.  Big Brother dominated every sport he tried and Aubber-Dobber made red dirt look pretty.

There's something else about being a coaches kid, you are raised in a gym. There's always a game or tournament. There's something about being raised in the gym.  Something about the smells, sounds and people. There's such a strong feeling of community. While Papa didn't own Gilbert's Fieldhouse and Gpa didn't own the weight room.  They felt like ours, we had our own keys. Being a coach's kid we had first hand experience of what it means to be a leader.  It became natural for us to lead, maybe expected. I think this is a trait we take personal and continue to use it. Hopefully, we can lead our child the same way.

I say all of this because tonight Hibdon went to Barnsdall Elementary Wrestling practice.  He went to help Gpa and enjoy their kind of quality time. I love that for him.  Not everyone can have those memories.  While it makes me sad at times that Hibdon nor I are coaches and Baby H won't know exactly how it feels.  I would imagine that Hibdon will get as close as he can.  Baby H will know what it feels like to have the biggest fan.  I LOVE a good sport to cheer for, I LOVE the excitement of a good game, and I will LOVE watching Baby H in whatever activity he/she chooses.  The reoccurring text message between Hibdon and I is, we will have a wrestler or cheerleader.  Either way Baby H will have several coaches and several BIG fans.

Saturday, November 3, 2012

Baseballs and Diamonds

Just a little background on the name of the blog and my story....

Baseballs and Diamonds was recommended by my sweet friend because my husband was a college baseball player.  Most of our dating years were spent with him playing ball, traveling to games, sitting in the cold rain, hot sun or snow at times (we live in Oklahoma).  My husband is the ultimate guys-guy, he loved playing ball (more than just the hard ball too) and he loooooves hunting and fishing. I did grow up in small town Oklahoma and I know how to shoot a gun and bait my own hook.  I also love to golf,  have a decent jump shot, and will get dirty for a slow pitch game. I just love the pretty things, like diamonds for example.  I love fashion, make-up and hair products that I never knew I needed.  I would rather save my spending budget on a spa day than eat out all month.  So when she sent the text of Baseballs and Diamonds, I thought "Man she's good".

While those are the basics of the Hibdons, we still have a little more info.  My husband who I affectionately refer to as My Big Strong Man, grew up in the same tiny town that I did.  Actually 3 out of 4 of our parents were raised in this tiny town.  I believe both of our Grandmothers graduated from the same school.  The sweet small town of Barnsdall.  I love that little place and all the memories it holds for me.  Anyway back to the Hibdons, we had crushes throughout school (he was two grades below and I was just too cool for that).  Life had its twists and turns for us.  We went off to college, I thought life would go a different route, praise God for the should've beens.  Finally my senior year at NSU,  Mr. Hibdon waltzed in to my life with his token Hibdon swagger.  There for fun and to teach me how to have it.  We spent the next two years in the best, most fun relationship in which I spent many of days watching that cute butt on the mound.

Fast forwarding to 2010- we had a magical wedding on the beaches of Cabo San Lucas and have continued our fun having relationship back in Oklahoma.  We have now been married for two years.  We had our little plan.  You know the 5 year plan.  The one that is set in stone, you make decisions around, pen to paper of a bucket list.  The plan you make with boxes to check off.  The one that should be complete before the you know what comes....the b-a-b-y.  Well, like  97592379283 type-A, over-achieving, control-freak planners you can imagine my surprise as I saw that word or that stick.  "Pregnant" There is was staring me in the face.  My cheeks were hot, my stomach turning and my throat closing. AHHH we still had things to check off. We weren't ready.  I took a deep breath, swallowed my tears and walked down the creaking steps of my house. Hibdon was sitting in the chair just enjoying his care free, stress free, baby free life. I told him the news and the flood gates opened. What did Hibdon do? He laughed, whole hearted, full belly laugh.  Kissed my forehead and pulled me into the chair. He said one sentence that I still feel in my heart, it's imprinted forever... "This is the best news". He talked me off my control-freak ledge and we kissed, hugged and laughed. Of course I took a few for my tests and then one at the doctor to be sure.

We have started down the path to parenthood.  We shall see what happens next.  I can tell you I'm moody, my once adored flat/muscular tummy is now round.  My beloved ghetto booty is gaining a new life.  Some days I feel like I am on an island and Hibdon doesn't understand and others I want to cry at the love I feel for him. I am experiencing all the not so pretty symptoms of pregnancy and respecting my mother and all mothers so much more. 

I can tell you I still think about the best news.  This little piece of Hibdon and me.  I have always said I wanted a girl first.  Now that I have Hibdon and this extra weight, I don't care.  If I had another boy like him in my life, I would be the luckiest girl around. (I'm allowed to be cheesy. It's my blog and I'm pregnant).

Blog? Check yes or no.

I have enjoyed the blog scene from a far for many years now.  Most mornings or slow afternoons, I like to read blogs from some of the amazing people in my life and those who are just talking about something that really strikes a chord with me.  

So for months now I have been saying, "I'm thinking of blogging" to  few of my blogger friends. I just wanted to get their feel.  They are pretty sweet, but HONEST so I thought they would give me great feedback.  They all said YES! Do it.  They are loving their blog experience and recommend for me.  At the time of this blog debate my life was pretty ordinary.  I thought it would be a boring read. Well, times they are a changing and so is my dress size.  Can you see where I am going with this?  Yep, I am sure you guessed it.  Brito is Prego! So, now my friends are even more encouraging about me blogging.  So here goes... No promises of tears, tons of laughter or page turners.  It will just be my little life in small town Oklahoma, with an ever growing belly. 

And just a shout out to those who encouraged this blogging behavior.  Lollipop (www.blondeoklahomagirl@blogspot.com), Needs to move to Oklahoma friend, Tiff (www.tiffanyd22@blogspot.com) and my E (www.thesiscochick.com).