Update....and back at it??

My last update was Valentine's Day and here we are, past Labor Day now. Here's the latest.

I've lost about 20 lbs.

Wanna know how? Check out my "how I list the weight" post.

I got an allergy panel done and have been avoiding the foods I'm sensitive to for over a month now, including gluten, wheat, cow's milk and wacky stuff like bananas, mushrooms, lemon and peaches.

I'm also taking a homeopathic remedy that has really helped with my belly issues--namely the feeling like I had a bubble in my stomach that would never pop.

I've had a little bit of light-headedness and some low-energy days so I'm still figuring out how to bulk up on protein and good fats. Over all, though, I feel better than I have in many years, especially my stomach.

The boys are now 8 and 5 and both in school all day at our neighborhood public school. I'm still adjusting to that and so far, it's wonderful. They're doing karate now, too, so our weeks are pleasantly busy.

Speaking of busy, August was insanely busy with church stuff so I've been trying to cut back and get more down time in September. We've been reorganizing the house, too, and working on some projects.

And just this week, my husband is putting the pressure on to decide...BABY....now or never?? He doesn't like being stuck in indecision and he wants to get on with it. I get that.

So it's decision time: are we done or do we go for #3?

Yes, we've been here before. No, I'm no more clear on what I want. I don't feel done....but I don't feel this draw to have another baby, to mother another child.

What do you do when you just don't know?! 

We tried for a while to no avail so of course there are no guarantees. I have changed--even just with the changes I made at the start of 2014, my body adjusted and has continued to adjust. I was last pregnant in 2009! I am a very different woman now.

There are pros and cons, so many things to consider, so much to think about....but then there's the simple question of "Why NOT roll the dice one more time??"

I believe I'd like to be a mommy to another human. I'd like to raise another kid. I'd like to bring another person into the world, into this family. I'd like to take one more leap of faith.

Hear that sound in the distance? It's me saying, "Wheeeeeeee!!!".....



 

Happy Valentine's Day!

We are still not actively "trying" for anyone wondering.

I am doing well with the less sugar thing. And I feel pretty great! A baby is not a heart's desire at the moment--and that's OK! I have plenty of friends and family pregnant and having babies so I'm good!

Here are a few photos from my recent Valentine's Day tea party. If you live in AZ, I hope you can make it to the next one!

My selection of tea cups for the ladies to borrow. 

The food was amazing this year! 

Fairytale-themed table

My plate! 

Yes, we wear tiaras.

Me and my mama having a photo op.

Me hostessing in my tea party garb! These were the prizes I gave away for festive food and attire.

It was a wonderful event and I am blessed to be able to spend such a lovely afternoon with so many extraordinary women!

Happy Valentine's Day!

Mothering the Mother

For anyone just joining us, we're taking a break from TTC. It's been nice to have one less thing to think about!

Thankfully, this last period was very minor and I've felt pretty good!

Here are a few pictures from our recent day trip up to the snow in Flagstaff, AZ. We had a blast and it was such a nice escape from the holiday craziness!

Pushing big brother down the hill.

Brothers about to blast off!

Me and Ethan, bundled and enjoying the snow!

In other news...

I visited a new naturopathic doctor today who is also a certified nurse midwife. I'm going to get some blood work done then schedule a time to meet with her to address whatever issues I may have. An over-taxed adrenal system is a likely suspect. There may also be cortisol, thyroid or vitamin D issues, too--we'll see! I don't have to speculate much longer--she'll be able to tell me!

Sitting in her office NOT at a prenatal appointment was...good. I feel like if I were pregnant, we'd be dealing with my health issues on top of pregnancy issues and I'd be skating on thin ice again.

Don't get me wrong, I feel pretty great--but I don't feel as steady or as strong as I'd like, and that's not a good way to start a pregnancy, especially at age 36.  

I am grateful to not be pregnant so I can take care of myself for a season.

There are times when the mother needs mothering and for now, that's where I am. I don't know about baby #3 but in the meantime, feeling well, strong and balanced are my top priorities. Then I can take care of everyone better!