He Is Here! Safe and Sound!

Oh Boy! Oh Boy! Our precious baby boy is finally here and our life has been turned upside down. LOL!
Braden Thomas Sutton was born July 28, 2009 at 10:05 am at Baptist Hospital in Nashville, TN. He weighed 7lbs 13ozs and was 19.5 inches long. Form his nose up he looks like my side of the family and from the mouth down he is just like his daddy. (He has his daddy's adorable cheeks.)
Details of his birth:
I so wanted a natural delivery. Sounds weird, I know, but I actually was looking forward to labor pains. I knew that they would be painful but after all these years I just wanted to feel every aspect of his birth. However, it was not to be.
Beginning in my 34th week of pregnancy I began to have blood pressure trouble. The Specialist wanted me to go at least 38 and a half weeks because of the diabetes. I made it exactly 37 weeks. The blood pressure was beginning to get out of control and they were concerned for both me and the baby. When I went in for my appointment on a Monday, they told me that I would be having him the next day. I was in shock! We had moved a week or two before. (Actually Bobby and some of the men from the church did it while I was in the hospital due to BP trouble.) My house was not ready for a baby.
After examining me, the doctor told me that I would need a C-section. I was so bummed! She is very respected in her field as a fetal specialist and does not recommended C-sections, but told me he was too big for me and with my blood pressure, age, and diabetes it would be much safer on both me and the baby to deliver by C-section.
She is a christian and had been very respectful of my desire to have this pregnancy as natural as possible. I trusted her opinion fully and believe that God lead me to her, so I agreed. when it comes to the welfare of my child, I don't have to be a hero.
Bobby and I got permission for me to finish shopping for the baby provided I only go to two stores and ride the motorized shopping carts. (I had been on bed rest for quite a while.)
We decided just to enjoy the last day of our freedom!LOL! He took me to Logan's, and as we ate , we looked back on our marriage and how God had lead us and blessed us throughout. We had been to several countries, lived in some wonderful places, had an awesome adventure for two years in Alaska, met some of the most wonderful people, and been foster parents to some of the most awesome children in the world. Now God was blessing us with our "Forever" child. A child that we wouldn't have to give back after taking care of for months and falling deeply in love with them.
After Logan's, Bobby took me to Target. my motorized scooter died on me in the middle of the store! Bobby got me a wheelchair and wheeled me around the store. I was so embarrassed, but my dear hubby thought it was ridiculously funny.
We then went to Walmart. (It was not much better!) Bobby kept directing traffic and generally making sure everyone knew that a very pregnant woman was driving the scooter and then the dumb thing (Scooter, not Bobby.) went dead in the middle of the store! Just my luck! I had to sit in the middle of the row and wait on my wonderful hubby to go get another scooter.
When we got home I had high hopes of doing some serious cleaning, but I just collapsed on the couch. It was very hard to sleep that night. I kept imagining what the next day would be like.
It was exciting to think that after 15 years of marriage in a matter of hours we would be holding our forever child.
Would he have blond hair like me or brown like his daddy? (I had sneaking suspicion that it would be red like his grandmother!:P) What color eyes would he have. Did I do enough to help him be healthy and strong? Would I get to see him before he was taken to NICU?
It was almost a definite that he would have to go the NICK unit because of the diabetes and his early arrival. Also we opted not to do the tests for Down's or other defects and with or older age, I was so worried for Braden.
What if he had Down's and we died, who would take care of him? Would he be loved and raised like we would have done for him? Needless to say, it was a very emotional night!
I don't even remember going to sleep, but I woke early the next morning.

(To be continued ...)

Peek A Boo!

God Knows Just What We Need!

I am so thankful for my "Peaceful" Thursday!
God knew that I would need it.
Friday I had to wake up early for an appointment at the Health Department.
I was having trouble breathing, my vision was very blurred, and I felt swollen.
When the nurse weighed me I had gained 8 lbs since my Specialist appointment a week before.
So I asked her to check my blood pressure. (They can't treat me, only check for me.)
It was much higher than usual.
I decided to pray about it and let it go, but things got worse during the day so I called my doctor just to see if it was something to be concerned about. She told me to come as soon as I could.
Bobby made the 50 minute trip in 35 minutes! LOL!
We had to wait when we got there. So after an hour they brought me back for an ultra sound. (I forgot say that Braden was not moving.)
The tech told me that because I had been unable to eat that she was sure he would fail the test, but not to be too worried they'd try to get something down me and try again.
She is one that has been with us through the beginning of this pregnancy and knew about our struggles.
I held my breath. This is a high risk place and anytime I have an ultrasound it is not for fun, but to make sure Braden is doing ok.
He looked like he was spazzing. I was concerned. She laughed. He had the hiccups! LOL!
She smiled real big and said she could already tell he was gonna pass the Bio-Phi test with flying colors!
Then the little stinker put his hand over his eyes as if to say, "Hey, who turned the lights on!" It was so cute and she got a picture of that.
Afterward the lady just started opening up to us about some things she had seen and we were just in astonishment. I think she was having a hectic day and needed a shoulder. Us being ministers we are morally and legally bound to keep confidence. We left that room feeling so much better than when we came.
I had to wait after the for the nurse to weigh me and do my BP again. While waiting, Bobby realized I had miscalculated my weight gain from the health department. Instead of 8lbs I had gained 6lbs in a week, still not good.
When the nurse weighed me we found out that the HD scales and the DR scales where off by 2lbs. So I only gained 4 lbs that week. Which is not great but not too far off for what I am going through. (The weight concern is for fluid retention, a sign of preclampsia)
My BP was still high, but I had people praying.
By the time I finally got to see the NP, we had gotten to know a couple of new people and when she checked my BP, it had went down a good bit.
The NP thinks that I am under too much stress and prescribed rest and relaxation. I can deal with that!
So today I am still having some of the same symptoms, but I feel better knowing that Braden is doing well.
Things could have been so different. I am so glad that God knew what I needed before I did.
Please keep praying that my BP will go back down. It is way too early for Braden to come now!

Just A Nice Day

Today Bro. Sutton needed to spend the whole day in Nashville. He won't be home until after 10 to night. It was one of those days when he didn't "need" me with him.
So I decided to go yard selling and see some friends.
It started raining at the first yard sale so I just went to see some friends.
I had a wonderful time!
Braden was kicking and we were laughing that he was like his daddy and wanted to be included in the conversation. LOL!
I enjoyed the rain. It was so peaceful. The temp. was in the 60's. Just a nice day.
I have felt such peace today.

PS. The poll was Bobby's idea! LOL!

Week At A Glance!

Why anyone would care, I do not know! LOL!

Monday - Went to Pelham Valley's Fundraiser for camp.
Walked in on someone while they were in the bathroom. (Please just don't ask.)
My belly fell into my BBQ and sauce got on my blouse.
A fly flew in my food and died.
We left!

Tuesday - Hit my 3rd Trimester!
Went to breastfeeding class by myself because Bobby refused to go! Ha!
I was the smallest one there! ( Everyone was about a month ahead of me!LOL!)

Wednesday - Sick, Sick, Sick! Some kind of baaaaaaaaaaaaaaaad virus!

Thursday - Doctor's Appointment. Braden is now 3 lbs. A little big for 6 months, but they aren't
concerned.
Need to relieve stress. (Yeah right!)

Friday - Can't remember.

Saturday - I washed all bedding in hot, hot water! Cleaned and sanitized everything I could to
get rid of the virus!

Sunday - My feet have officially swollen past my shoe size. I now have blisters on my feet and I
am so exhausted! Today I feel very pregnant and Brady is stomping on my bladder.
"Calgon, take me away!"

Monday - We'll see ...............

Breastfeeding

Pumps -- Suggestions?
Is used ones of craigslist sanitary?

Psalm 91

"He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.
I will say of the LORD, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust.
Surely he shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler, and from the noisome pestilence.
He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler.
Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flieth by day;
Nor for the pestilence that walketh in darkness; nor for the destruction that wasteth at noonday.
A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand; but it shall not come nigh thee.
Only with thine eyes shalt thou behold and see the reward of the wicked.
Because thou hast made the LORD, which is my refuge, even the most High, thy habitation;
There shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling.
For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways.
They shall bear thee up in their hands, lest thou dash thy foot against a stone.
Thou shalt tread upon the lion and adder: the young lion and the dragon shalt thou trample under feet.
Because he hath set his love upon me, therefore will I deliver him: I will set him on high, because he hath known my name.
He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honour him.
With long life will I satisfy him, and shew him my salvation.

Tada ...

Today I start the beginning of my third trimester! Praise the Lord! There have been many times that I did not think Braden would make it this far!
I was reminded yesterday of the Saturday of our District Convention and how we did not go because it looked as though we were loosing our baby. Later that night I was sent to the ER and told that we were in the process of losing him. It was an hour trip and all I could do was pray that God would help me to handle this honorably and to take care of Bobby because I didn't feel I had the strength. This song that a sister sings at our church came to my hurt, "By Faith I Can Touch Him Now." (Or at least that's how I say it.)
I was scared, depressed and ready to give up, but God was not. He was in control the whole time. He knew the outcome!
When the doctor examined me all the symptoms had stopped! He did an ultrasound and the baby was tumbling and had an awesome heartbeat. God had took care of what I could not even see.
Those symptoms NEVER came back and my whole pregnancy took a incredible turn for the better that night. AMAZING!
Several weeks later we were again faced with a scare of a different kind. A blood clot, but within weeks, without medication it was absolved. Come to find out, the clot had been part of what God used to stop my earlier symptoms. So what I thought was for my bad, God had used for my good.
After all that I was so worried about our 20 week scan, but again we were so blessed! They said he was perfect!
Today he is moving and I stand in awe at the wonder of life growing in me. I am so very thankful for the miracle God chose for me.
Guess what? He can still do miracles for you too! I am as Paul said in the Bible, the least among you. (Paraphrased)
God's miracles are not all in one bottle and once they are poured out that is it. He is more than able to do what needs to be done. His supply never runs out!
Some may read this and think my testimony is premature. It is not! God has already given me the gift of life. Something the doctors said I would never experience. They told me to give up and I believed them, but then my Father stepped in!
There is a song Bobby use to sing and it keeps me going. "I AM SAFE THUS FAR".

" For the which cause I also suffer these things: nevertheless I am not ashamed: for I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day." 2Ti 1:12

" But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus." Php 4:19

" Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need." Heb 4:16

Mosella The Misguided GPS

A little while back Bobby talked me into us getting a GPS. (We made a commitment to both of us having to agree on bigger purchases.)
I wanted it to have a man's voice and call it Moses. After a while Bobby changed it to a woman's voice because he said he was use to women bossing him around. So I asked him what "her" name was and he said Mosella! (Creative! Huh?)
Yesterday Bobby's cousin Dustin and his wife Marie had their little boy, J.W.. He came several weeks early. We really felt like we should try to visit them in the hospital. (3 hour trip)
On the way we needed to stop at a Wal-Mart to pick up a few things for them. So Bobby decided that he would stop off in Lewisburg (We lived there for several years when we pastored Columbia.) and go the new Wal-Mart there.
As men are he wouldn't stop for directions. Finally I convinced him to reset Mosella's settings to find Wal-Mart. It took us back to where we started and then around the whole city. We were driving for 30 minutes. I said," Bobby what if she is wrong?" He just laughed at me. Finally, Mosella said, "You have reached your destination." It was a small subdivision in the middle of the country! No Wal-Mart. We found a store to ask directions and come to find out Wal-Mart was on the other end of Lewisburg not far from where we first set the GPS!
We just skipped it and went to the one in Huntsville. So by the time everything was over with our 3 hour trip became almost 5 hours.
Mosella did get u s to the hospital. Dustin and Bobby went to see the baby while I stayed with Marie.
When it came our turn to see the baby, the nic was closed. I felt so bad for Marie. Imagine being told you couldn't see your baby.
I did see a picture and he is so cute with a head full of black hair. Bobby says he looks just like Dustin's baby pictures.
Marie was doing great and I was impressed!
We really enjoyed our visit with them.
I have a confession, I secretly hate Mosella! Is it ok to hate a GPS? She talks all the time and sometimes I just like PEACE!
Gone are the days of uninterrupted conversation or thoughts. Instead its, "In 3 1/4 miles turn right." and if you decide to do something different it's, "At the next available chance turn around!" Arrg!!!!!!!!!
So Mosella got turned off for the trip home!!!!

Rude Questions About My Pregnancy And The Answers I Really Want To Give ...

(All In fun. Well for the most part!)

Top Ten Rude Questions About My Pregnancy And The Answers I Really Want To Give!

10) Did you use invitro? Really its none of your business, but no. My husband and I feel like that is not for us.

9) How'd that happen? I swallowed a watermelon seed! What do you think?

8) Did you want to be pregnant? A ... if I didn't, why would I tell anyone and have my child to find out years later and think they weren't wanted?

7) When did you conceive? Huh? Like why would you want to know?

6) I thought you said that you couldn't have a baby! Well yeah, that's why they call miracles miracles.

5) How'd your families take the news? Who cares? We are in our late 30's and are grown ups. Been married 15 yrs. Hope their happy, but can live if they're not! Why is that even a consideration?

4) You just keep getting bigger and bigger don't you? Yes, and so does your mouth!

3) Why are you so nervous about loosing the baby? Women have miscarriages all the time.
How dare you! I am nervous because I am diabetic and old. I can't imagine any woman not suffering over any miscarriage and I do not have 15 more years to wait.

2) Why don't you name the baby after so and so?
Why don't you have a baby and name it after them.

1) Are you sure its a boy? I think you're having a girl! You need a girl.
Yes, after about 5 ultrasounds I know he is most definitely a boy. (If not something is really wrong.) As far as needing a girl, all I need is what the good Lord gives me.

Humpty Dumpty Sat On A Wall ...

Humpty Dumpty Had A GREAT Fall!

Sunday Night was Chelsie Henderson's first sermon and I was so excited for her. We had a real good worship service. I had to step out to go to the restroom and one the young boys came up behind me and scared me. He thought it was funny and kept trying to scare me until I finally told him to leave me alone. Anyways that made me jittery. (I used my nice words first, but that didn't work.)
So as it was coming time for Chelsie to come to the pulpit, I was getting up from the altar with a young girl. I forget that I have no balance and halfway up I fell back and hit the floor with my BUM! Ouch. In front of everyone! Some of the ladies gasped and I didn't know why, then I realized I was falling. I was wondering why everyone was so concerned, then I heard someone ask about the baby. Oh, the baby. That's when I got upset. I thought Braden was ok because I didn't land on him.
Anyway I head to the restroom and cry! I felt like I had ruined it for Chelsie. I was embarrassed, concerned for the baby, sore, and worried about Chelsie. My friend Vic took me to the nursery to calm down and I'll be if that same little boy didn't come in there to poke fun at me.
I was an emotional wreck! LOL!
Anyway we went back in and the Lord used Chelsie in a mighty way! You could feel His anointing on her.
I apologized to her after church and she said after she saw that I was alright, it helped lighten her up! (Well anything I can do for the gospel sake!LOL!) She is a special child.
The doctor says that she thinks everything is ok as long as Braden keeps moving. He hasn't moved yet today so the mommy in me is concerned, but I just have to trust God to see the things I can't and take care of him. Braden did move some yesterday, so that gives me comfort.
Just say a little prayer!
Pray for Bro. Bobby cause if he doesn't stop laughing at me, his life is going to become somewhat unpleasent! LOL!

Bits and Pieces

Mother's Day

It was great! My first Mother's Day that I didn't cry because I couldn't give my husband what he wanted so much, a child.
At church I got the mom-to-be award. Which was really sweet.
Then after church we drove 2 1/2 hours to meet my family for Mother's Day. (Halfway between.)
Bobby's family wasn't able to make it, but I did enjoy time with my family.
I hadn't seen my nephew since I found out that I was pregnant. So I think he was a little shocked! LOL!
My mother sent me a card , a onsie that said "Worth The Wait", socks for Braden, and socks for me! (I love socks!)
My brother always gives those jumper seat thingys that hang from doorways, for shower gifts. Which I think is very cool that he does that. However, they scare me and I really wanted this certain bouncy seat. So he surprised me and got me the bouncy seat that I wanted and the softest, prettiest blue blanket that says, "Thank Heaven for Little Boys.", and a pair of cute booties. Now my brother is a "manly man" and for him to do that touched me deeply.
Then my nephew gave us an "Alabama RollTide" outfit. It was so cute. Bobby had been looking for one, but you just don't find those in Vol Country! LOL!
It was a nice day!
Braden's Godparents, Kevin and Jacinda, bought him a stroller and some of the cutest clothes and itty bitty tennis shoes from a yardsale. They were so cute.
Several years ago we decided that if we had a child we wanted them to be its Godparents. We never knew we'd end up being their pastor.

We are moving in June, I think. So I bought paint for the baby's room. The place we are moving to they are going to paint the baby's room for us, so I want have to smell the fumes! How nice!
Now if we get moved at the convention in July, and the baby coming the first week of August, there's gonna be an Overseer with a very unhappy momma on his hands! LOL!

I think it will feel good to be able to arrange Braden's room and organize everything. (Yes, I am one of those.) I need some energy. The thoughts of moving wear me out!

We had awesome services Sunday. More on that later.

We all are blessed beyond measure. Just start looking around you!

A Couple of Questions About Babies.

I am doing a registry and had some questions about some things my book says I need.
Did you use any of these things? Should they be put on the registry? What do you think?

1) Bottle sterilizer -- Can't you just put the bottles in the dish washer and that be enough or do I need one?

2) Diapers -- My book says put them on the registry, but should I? We are all thinking this is gonna be a big baby and I am not sure what size he'll need. Bro. Sutton was almost 12lbs and because of the diabetes, the doctors are thinking that Braden is going to be pretty big too.

3)Bottles -- OK , I know the obvious, but I want to breastfeed (Ooh, I said breast. Please don't call my Overseer again, we've kept him busy this year!) I have no idea what kind of bottles to get for pumping and saving. What kind of bottles are the best for breastfeeding and do you use different kinds for juice and formula if I have to go that route? (I am taking a class later this month, but need to know now.)

4) What if there are things that people can get cheaper at other stores than the ones on your registry? I don't get care where they come from. I just used the registry to give people an idea of what we could use. Dollar General is fine with me. I did use 3 stores and comparison shopped between them, but I don't care if someone buys a "bumbo" at a yard sale as long as it is clean, safe, and blue. LOL! Do people assume that you don't mind or do they think you want them to go to only those places. I feel so uncomfortable in this role. We are just grateful that people think of us and want to help us out. We are just now getting over the shock that we are having a baby and now we are going into shock over how much a baby needs!!!!!! Have you seen the price of diapers? I considered cloth, but we are on the go so much, I just don't think they'd work.

5) What are some things you got that you just couldn't live without?

6) Thank You Notes -- Do you give them as you get gifts? We have been getting things throughout the pregnancy or do you wait until the baby is born? Some people give us things often and I am thinking instead of sending ten Thank You Notes to the same person, that I would wait until the baby is born and send them one then?

If any of you other expectant moms have questions you'd like to ask please feel free to add or if you put them on your blog, let me know so I can write them down in my little mommy instruction book!

The Reason Behind the Bumper Pad Poll

http://babyproducts.about.com/od/recallsandsafety/a/bumpersafety.htm
(Copy & Paste)

Happy Mother's Day!

To all the mothers out there, the biological ones and the ones who take the time to love the motherless!
Today is the first Mother's Day in years that I haven't dreaded going to church.
I believe in Miracles! Don't you?

Steam Boat Slough

I found a crib set. It has tug boats, it's blue and it reminds me of one of my favorite spots on the Kuskokwim River in Bethel, Steam Boat Slough.
As you travel down the slough you can see old steamboats that have been abandoned there. It is really neat, except one time I almost rammed the boat into one! OOPS!
The banks are lined with fish camps and in the summer you can see lines of fish hanging to be dried! Yum! Just a really cool place that I miss a lot!

Baby Nursery Blues! Ba, Ba, Bum!

It is driving me bonkers! How to set up the Nursery. I love "Winnie the Pooh" and had bought the whole crib set. I even ordered the curtains and diaper stacker online. The more I looked at it the more I thought, "This just doesn't fit with Braden", so I took it all back! (After I cried over the fact that I couldn't seem to get anything right!) Bobby says that I am too creative for some everyday package deal and that is why I am having such a hard time. Whenever I ask him for his suggestions, he says that he isn't going there. He'd hear it forever if I decided I didn't like it.
We have waited for this child for almost 15 yrs, I am afraid that I want everything to be perfect!

Now I am back at square one and it is bugging me. I have been asked to do a registry to help others know what I need and I can't make my mind up!
Right now I am thinking Cowboy, but there is hardly anything out there for babies. We have a few cowboy things. I found a quilt in Pigeon Forge, but I didn't get it. Now I wished I had of! Oh the drama of it all! LOL!

The Doctor's visit yesterday was good and not so good, but overall good! LOL! The not so good part was that she put me on 4 shots a day. I had talked her into waiting last time and seeing if I could get the sugars down. I really tried hard, not even one chocolate doughnut, but they were still higher than she felt safe. So we started breaking things down to figure out the cause. Come to find out it wasn't my diet that was making my sugar go up, it was stress. Stress can shoot your sugar up. She said that my body had passed the point of being helped without the shots.
Yes, I believe God can completely heal me, but until He does, I am going to follow what has been put before me to save my child.

Oh, my most embarrassing moment ... She left to write the prescription and I went to the restroom closing the door. When I went to go back I got confused and couldn't find my room. (There were only 4 doors.) She pointed out my room and I said, "I really don't think that is it."
She laughed and opened the door. It was it. She diagnosed me with a new condition. "Placenta Brain!" I kept apologizing.

Thanks to Craig'slist we now have a crib and a swing! The swing is almost brand new and sales for $100. We got it for $25!!! We went to look at a changing table yesterday, but it was awful. The place where Braden would lay was bulking and you could see through the bulges. It was awkward but I had to tell her that I was sorry I wouldn't be buying it.

We have debated about whether or not to get a travel system. Bobby really wants one, but they are expensive and the good ones on CL get gone fast. (Way to go Coughmans!) We are wanting it practically new because we intend to have more kids, we still would like to foster care and adopt. Also we know we won't always be in TN. We may go someplace more rugged someday. Bobby saw one at Sears he really liked and it wasn't very expensive, but we have 4 months on that.

The Doctor did say Braden was doing well. He is 1lb 10 oz. a little big but she was not concerned. Bobby was 11lb 12 oz. and with my diabetes, I'll probably have big babies. I want so bad to have him naturally, but if he weighs in 13lbs , its a C-section! Either way they are inducing labor the first week of August. Yes, the month pastors begin their new appoinments. (Got STRESS?)

Well, Alrighty then! I think I've rambled enough. Have a good day and please continue to remember us in your prayers!

Houston We Have A Crib!

Got it off of Craig's List for $60! We have to buy a mattress but I wanted a new mattress anyway.
Just too tired to post pics, but I will soon!! It is beautiful.
We prayed about it because we have a tiny budget. They were asking 80. God blessed us!
Oh and I finally found a cheap place to buy decent Maternity clothes! It is a consignment shop in Murfreesboro. We walked in right as they were closing, but the lady stayed almost an hour helping me. So nice!
We talked and found out that we had a lot in common. Remember her dad in your prayers. He is in the hospital.
Women's prayer service was nice tonight. I got tickled during prayer because Braden kept kicking! I just can't help myself. I laugh every time I feel him. It is just so amazing to me that God would grant me this dream. Problem tonight though, he was on my bladder. (At least it seemed to be that way!LOL!)
Sunday was a great day and I enjoyed lunch with Sis. Campbell. She and Bro. Campbell were such a blessing to us when first came to TN!
I have to say something about Sunday Service. It was like drinking fresh water after being in the sun all day! Refreshing. I had been praying for several months about an answer to a question I had personally. Sunday I just told the Lord that I needed it settled because it was hindering me. I got up and walked to the other side of the auditorium to pray for others and this lady grabs both my arms and proceeds to tell me the answer to my question. She had no idea what I had been praying and still doesn't, but for several minutes she plainly told me what I had asked God to show me. Cool! HUH?
God cares about all things in our life and He wants us to be happy. Sometimes I think we forget that! One day when I finish my book I'll tell what I so desired to know, but for now I will ponder it in my heart.
What was even more amazing is that the Devil reared his ugly head today and because I had my answer, I just laughed. God has it all sealed up and satan can't touch what God has annointed and appointed.

Polka Dotted Whale Sighting

I felt absolutely HUGE the whole day! This boy better love me! LOL!

Like Father, Like Son

This was Bobby's Cradle when he was a baby. His uncle Roger Johns built it for him. Isn't it beautiful. It is very special to me and I and grateful that Bobby's mom is letting us use it.

This is Brady the horse! The Bible is the very first thing Bobby bought for Braden. He gave it to me when he picked me up from the airport in Chicago right we found out I was pregnant. It was a very special day!

He Is Perfect!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

We had the "BIG SCAN" yesterday and everything went wonderful! Our son is happy and healthy and I am so thankful and grateful. They saw no markers for Downs (Which has been a concern because of my age.) and his spine was perfect. It wouldn't change our love for him, but I have been concerned about our age and how well he would be took care of if something happened to us.

God has been good to us in so many ways! We had the best ultrasound tech. Of course they said the only way to know for sure everything is okay was to have an amnio, but it is too risky and well it wouldn't change anything. God has the answer and that's all that matters. When I was having so many complications I just got to the place where I said, "Lord, you are the only one who has control and can take care of my child, I trust you." Things have been better since. Praise the Lord!

He is beautiful. The tech laughed and said that he was ornery because he was face down and wouldn't turn around so she could easily check his organs and about the time she would get a fix on him he would start moving. LOL! I said , "Yep! He's his daddy's son!" LOL! I saw his heart, bladder, kidneys, his feet and all ten toes, his itty bitty hands with all ten precious fingers, eyes (Which still looks a little scarey.LOL!), and on and on. Oh, his nose too!

Bobby was funny the whole time. We were all laughing and imagining him when he gets here. I told the tech that when he is old enough I will bring him back to apologize for being ornery! LOL!
My NP was pleased with my sugars and I am beginning to feel healthier. Because of the diabetes the baby will be coming two weeks earlier than planned. He should be here the first week in August. Guess when our lease is up? The last week in July! LOL! I think God is providing a way so that things won't be that rushed.

Our big decisions ,,, the kid still doesn't have a name,,, now that he is coming earlier I am thinking I might take him to the assembly, it would be cool for him to meet Tammy's baby (And all the other babies!) since they are going to be born so close together! (I think that is so neat!)I was counting women in The Church of God who are or have been expecting in 2009 and so far with what I know, I have come up with 11. There's gonna be a lot of strollers and diaper changing at the assembly! LOL! Can't you see the line in the restroom for the one diaper changing station there usually always is?

In other news, Bro. Sutton's uncle passed away yesterday so we are leaving for Alabama today. The funeral will be Sunday, but we will miss it to be in services at Antioch Sunday. This will be the first time Bobby and I have seen our families since we found out that we were having a baby.
It is weird for people who have known me for a while to see me pregnant for the first time. They kind of go into shock! LOL! (Hey, I still can't believe it!)

Pray for us as we travel! I love you all, okay most of you all! LOL! (I jokes!)

New Post Coming!

See ya tomorrow!

Pondering ...

I was thinking today, How could anyone not say that my unborn child is not a live child. I feel him move and it brings life to me. My day can be bad and I can feel down, but let that child move or kick and my whole day changes!

In my Human growth and Development class the textbook talked about all the things that have to work together for a woman to conceive. It's such a miracle! Then when I think of all the things that had to happen for me to conceive, I am just in awe!

Sometimes I think the reason this baby boy came along when he did was for God to show his glory and mercy. He waited for the doctors to do their thing and then when that failed, he showed his awesome compassion and mercy. I am so blessed.
My son is here with me now and no matter what happens, he is alive and is loved unconditionally. Everyday is a testimony to God's love.

Words do not describe the feeling in my heart when my Bobby talks to the baby. He sings to him and tells him about what life is going to be like when we can actually hold him in our arms.
This has been an experience that I never thought I would know. All because of the mercy and compassion of my heavenly Father.

Bobby has given me a paper with scriptures on it to help when I worry about our son.
One that sticks out to me is Psalm 86:5
"For thou, LORD, art good, and ready to forgive; and plenteous in mercy unto all them that call upon thee."

I was upset with God when our five foster children had to leave. I loved them more than myself.
It took a while but I realized they didn't belong to me, God allowed them to bless our lives for a time. I had to give them back to God and let him restore their family. It wasn't until I finally released them in my heart that God blessed me beyond measure. We still have a call to help children and I would take in as many as possible, but God saw my heart and gave me a forever child.

I don't know how God would work in your life and I can't promise that he will do for you what he did for me, he might do much more, but in releasing my hurt and anger I found peace and I was grateful just for that.

I believe in miracles! How about you?

19 Weeks Today! Yeah God!

It is a beautiful day in the 70's! God is good!

The Whites Rock!

I have been wanting a rocking chair so bad, but I keep thinking there are so many other things to get for baby. The other day I was talking to one of our members, Ondra White, (To those who don't know her she is a very sweet and helpful person.)out of the blue she asked me if I wanted a rocking chair! I was elated. I love my rocking chair!!! Thank you so much Tim, Ondra, Micah, and Gracee!

PS. Please pray for Gracee. She has been very sick.

Bountiful Blessings!

Like it has for everyone, things have been tight in the Sutton home. Usually I am very good at window shopping, but since we found out that we were having a son I want to buy everything. Not good!LOL!
Well the Lord has blessed me with surprise packages and I thought I'd share them with you.

1) Bobby's mom surprised as with a package in the mail. She made this beautiful card and sent two of the sweetest outfits.











2) Today Bobby's Aunt sent us another surprise package. A blanket and little shoes. They are so adorable!


3) Tonight at church, Sis. Vicky gave us his first "Old Navy" outfit. It was sooooooooooo cute and very thoughtful! Love ya Vic!


Well, OK, I have splurged a little. On the way to visit Erika and Lance in Georgia we stopped at Cracker Barrel and I saw this for 70% off. It was before we knew we were having a boy. I was holding it in the van like I would a baby and told Bobby that I wasn't so sure that Hope was going to be Hope! LOL! I love it!
Its John Deer!


The day we found out that we were having a son I bought these at Walmart instead of doughnuts!LOL!



When we were in Nicaragua several years ago I bought this just in case we ever had a son.

18 Weeks!

I am 18 weeks today!!!! Yeah God. I have learned to cherish every moment everyday that I carry my son with me. This has truly been God's miracle. A surprise from out of the blue. What others said was impossible, God spoke the word and it was done.
Yes, I get scared. With all the complications that have come up, but God has been with me through every one. I was praying this morning and God reminded me that in the mist of all the uncertainty and concern about the baby, I have much to be thankful for.

1) We found out pretty early on that I was pregnant. Almost two months pregnant. Which gave us time to pray and have others to be praying. Some thought we were too early to tell people, and I was even hesitant, but Bobby said people could pray. We knew this pregnancy would have risks. My age, the diabetes, but we know the power of prayer.

2) Had I not been high risk, I would not have as many ultrasounds and literally see the whole development of my child. (Which has been awesome!)

3) My hair had started falling out after I lost weight, so my hair dresser told me to take prenatal vitamins. So I was taking vitamins weeks before I found out that I was pregnant. Which was great for our son.

4) I thought my diabetes meds was what was making me so sick, so I stopped taking them. One of them had not been checked for pregnant women. Thank you Jesus for direction.

5) While in the ER, each time I saw people in bad shape and prayed for them. Also one of my visits led to us getting one of the best fetal specialist in Nashville.

6) I am having to depend fully and completely on God.

There are so many more things, but I'd just like to keep those and ponder them in my heart.

I don't understand everything that we have been through in this last year, but I am beginning to take deep breaths and trust that God knows and sees it all. The things I need to work on, he'll lead me through them and the things that are out of my control, are never out of his.

One of the other neat things during this was that I was suppose to take a temp job in Alaska with excellent benefits and I'd get to be with the children again. I remember praying Lord, the only way I can get out of this commitment if it is not your will, is if I am pregnant and I laughed. The day before I was to start work the same doctor who said I couldn't have a child, told me I was going to have a child. How neat was that!

I was still afraid I wouldn't be able to get out of my commitment without harsh words, the school had gotten a new principal and I did not know him very well. He told me, "Annette, God has bigger plans for you", and with that I went back to TN.

Ahh! Hormones ... see how I ramble!

Playing The Same Old Song!

Bed rest again!!!!!!!!!!!!!! This boy better love his mommy! I feel him moving. Poor Bobby he wants to so bad but it just isn't time yet! Yesterday the baby kicked a few times hard enough that I could barely feel him on the outside with my hand. I was calling for Bobby but he was outside checking the mail and missed it.
We spent the next forever with Bobby talking to the baby trying to get it to kick me. So cute!

With All The Many Miracles ...

Can you believe? I am through my first trimester. Never did I ever imagine I would be here! I, Carol Annette Sutton, am carrying a child! Wow!

It has been the best and scariest time of my life! I love this baby with all my heart and everyday I tell him how much he is loved!

Yes, I said him! We are going to have a bouncing baby boy and I am so excited!
The problem is coming up with the perfect name for the perfect boy!

I have been put on bed rest yet again, but I am going to try to make it for the revival tomorrow. Bobby has asked me to stay home tonight because tomorrow will be a long day and he thinks I need my strength. I am not discouraged. God has given us this baby boy and I am trusting him to finish what he started!

This child has already given Hope to so many. We believe in Miracles! (More so now than ever before!)

I am trusting the Lord for each day!