A Lifetime of Love

It's almost time for me to have the baby's anatomy ultrasound, meaning soon we'll know what we're having. The problem- we don't have names picked out because we can't agree! I guess it's a good thing we still have 5 more months to reach a compromise. =) Here are the names I like (all for a boy): Tucker Tate Tobyn Townsend Here are the names TJ likes: Timothy (boy) Taryn (girl) If you have ideas or suggestions of 'T' names, please share them. As you can tell, I am open to pretty much anything that is unique and not traditional. TJ, on the other hand, prefers more traditional, common names (which is why my kids have "normal" middle names. :)  Thanks!

I haven't had a chance to update lately because I've been busy with family visiting from out of town, spending time with my own family, and embarking on a new (for me) hobby- canning our fresh produce. We have a garden and that means blessings from God in the form of fresh veggies. We've  canned stewed tomatoes in the past, but never really ventured past that. This year, however, I wanted to do something with my cucumbers. I tried my hand at pickling and I must say, they came out better than I expected. I've had homemade pickles in the past and honestly I didn't like them. I preferred store-bought mostly because that's what I was used to eating. Well, this recipe I found is great, and the pickles look like the ones you buy in the store but they taste way fresher! =) I also attempted to make homemade salsa and it turned out great! It's spicy and chunky and reminds me of a salsa TJ & I used to get at a local Mexican restaurant we frequented in Californ...

I had my regularly scheduled doctor's appointment yesterday.  Once I got called back to the room, I chatted with the doc about recent blood work and testing that was completed. We then talked about my next appointment and other testing that would be done at that time. She began the exam and as usual, listened for the baby's heartbeat using the dopplar machine. Except this time, it was only my heartbeat that could be heard. She continued searching, moving the dopplar up, down, and around in an attempt to hear something. Nothing. For about 5 minutes this continued, and as she searched, she kept reassuring me that she'd find it. I just lay there, fighting back tears and praying that the Lord would spare me the heartache and pain of losing another baby. I was battling my thoughts while at the same time reminding myself that God is good, and what He does is good, and that this was for my good. It was a long, fearful few minutes for me. The doc eventually gave up searching ...