Dottie Rae: 2 Months

Seriously still trying to figure out how my little newborn turned 2 months overnight.... Dottie is the sweetest little thing. Very go-with-the-flow, mellow, although she is starting to get a little more fussy, just an all around sweet little thing. I often say I couldn't have dreamed up a better baby. Which with our spicy toddler we need it ;) She is so smiley and loves to be talked to and looked at. Over loved by big sis-- Goldie is always so concerned about dottie's well-being, and often says "oh no! Dottie tie!" or "Hi Dottie dot!" (the nickname Goldie gave her that has stuck) Getting her shots was so sad! Dottie doesn't ever scream cry, its usually more of a whimper, but man those shots made her scream!! Which of course breaks my heart!

Weight: 10 lbs (16%)
Height:
Head:

Clothes: Size 1 diapers, 0-3 tops and bottoms, bottoms are still a little big, but with her long body the tops won't last too much longer, We got her ears pierced!!

Eating: I am nursing and she eats great!

Sleeping: Thankfully... she is sleeping great! She usually sleeps from about 10-6 every night! Which is awesome.. the past couple nights she has been waking up around 4, but really I can't complain about that either.

 She is already getting so strong and can stand up with her little bird legs, and pulls herself up to sit, it's so cute but so sad! I want her to stay my newborn forever!!

Dottie's Blessing

Dottie was blessed on October 9, 2016. Scott gave her the sweetest blessing. He is such an amazing Dad to our girls. We were surrounded by family and are so grateful to those who made this day even more special.

My parents with Dottie

Scott's parents with Dottie

Four Generations

Goldie didn't want any pictures... just food.

Still sad we were missing Goldie in the picture, but like I said she wouldn't leave the food.

Our precious little Dottie Rae

Dottie Rae: 1 month

It is so crazy how one month has already passed... technically it was last week... So I mean time is flying! It makes me sad how fast babies grow. I forget how the newborn stage only lasts a little. 

Dottie has been a little dream baby. She is so mellow, her big sisters opposite ;) She is starting to wake more, and is flashing us the sweetest smiles. She loves to stretch out and she looks so long when she does. Already likes to hold her head up. She sleeps pretty good during the night- just wakes every 3-3 1/2 hours to eat. Just like Goldie, doesn't like being swaddled, but likes a soft blankie by her face. She actually likes her binki! That has been a lifesaver! She only gets fussy when she's hungry, gassy, or around 8 pm. 

She is petite with petite little features. Dot's got cheeks for days, one of my favorite features. She's got Balding on top, but has hair on the back, it looks a little darker than Goldie was. Her eyes are blue, but sometimes they look like they might turn hazel, or brown. She has Monson long, skinny, legs, and arms (the trait all my siblings have, but me). She makes faces that look like Scott a lot, but still has her own look. Sometimes her face seems familiar from either mine or Goldie's baby pictures. She is seriously just perfect!

 At her two week appointment the doctor told us she has a heart murmur, but he assured us it was common for babies, and should go away with time, but they will keep a close eye on it. She also has an umbilical hernia, which should also fix itself once her abdomen develops more. 

We love our two sweet girls with all of our hearts. Goldie has been the best big sister. When she wakes up the first thing she wants to do is "hold you" (hold dottie), and always gives soft kisses, and says "Hey sis!" or "Hi Dottie". Just enough to make my mama heart melt. 

Could you die over that little smile!? 

2 under 2

Having two babies is no joke! Our days consist of a lot of diapers, laundry, and nursing. I can't seem to find time in the day to clean or cook... so our house is full of clutter, and Goldie is living off crackers and cereal. Even though some days are long, and sleep is sparse, I know the months fly by, and my babies grow before my eyes.

Dottie Rae Probert

I can never get over how magical, and spiritual birth is. There is nothing like meeting a little human, that you created. Hearing them cry for the first time, and seeing the face you've been dreaming about for the last nine months. Seriously priceless. I cherish each of my girls' birthdays so much. They are a day I wish I could live over and over again. There is nothing better.

This time around I knew I would have to get a c-section. (See Goldie's Birth Story) With Goldie I had an emergency c-section. It was a very stressful, and scary situation. This time around it was planned, and wow, was it a different experience. So much more relaxed!

We started our day at 4:30 a.m. as we hurried to get ready for the hospital. We dropped Goldie off at my parent's for a sleepover because we had the first surgery slot of the day! We needed to be at the hospital at 5:15 so they could start prepping. After having a c-section, I was super nervous. I knew what to expect, and what I was getting myself into. So I was kind of freaking out! I am so afraid of needles and all I could think about was that dang IV and the spinal break! We checked in and I  got dressed in hospital gown, a nurse came in to put in my IV (I didn't even cry, or pass out!) Then I got hooked up to fluids. I walked back to the surgery room with the nurse while Scott got dressed in his hospital get-up. The doctor told me that I would get a spinal break instead of an epidural because it is more dense, and I wouldn't feel as much stretching, pulling and tugging. Thank heaven. The nurse was so sweet and could tell I was nervous... I was shaking uncontrollably haha, and offered her shoulder for me to put my head on while the spinal break was given. I gladly accepted. After lying down on the operation table, with my arms stretched out, scott came in and the surgery began at 6:30. I could still feel some tugging, and pushing on my stomach, but it was short lived. Scott kept peeking over the curtain to see what was going on. He has a strong stomach because there is no way I could do that! Before we knew it, at 6:52 a.m.. we could hear the sweetest little cry. So soft, straight from heaven. They held Dottie over the curtain so I could see her before they took her to weight and measure, and clean her off. They then handed her to Scott who brought her over to me so I could get a better look. She was perfect. And so tiny! (She was over a pound smaller than Goldie!)  She looks so much like her daddy to me. While I was getting stitched up Dottie was on the hunt for some food, but she couldn't find it from Scott haha. After I was stitched up, they handed Dottie to me, and I got to hold her while they wheeled me to Mother and Baby. I didn't get to hold Goldie for an hour or so, so this was very special to me.

Dottie Rae Probert
August 17, 2016 at 6:52 a.m.
6 lbs 4 oz
18 in.

Dottie is so loved by her big sister. We had my friend Paige do a video of the girls meeting, and it is something I will cherish forever. Since I can't really film my birth stories, this was so perfect, and meaningful. Click HERE to watch that video.

I am so grateful for the nurses and doctor that helped deliver my girls. Without modern medicine, I wouldn't be able to have babies, and being a mom is my most cherished job! We are incredibly blessed!

36 weeks: Baby #2

Somehow I am 36 weeks pregnant? When did this happen haha!? Less than three more weeks until we get to meet our little lady-- CRAZY! I have been the worst mom lately because it is so dang hot outside that I cannot bare the heat!! Holy moly. Like what were we thinking having an August baby?? Goldie is so cute and is getting excited/starting to understand she is going to have a baby around. Every family prayer she blesses the baby- even when we forget to. I am really looking forward to getting to hold and meet this baby for the first time. But especially excited for our two babies to meet-I don't think my heart can take it!

Pregnancy Symptoms: Still low in Iron, but I have been taking iron supplements for over a month. I am not dilated at all, which wasn't really a surprise. Goldie was stuck, which is why I have to have C-sections... I don't dilate! Feeling really low energy, but super into nesting mode! I have washed all the baby's clothes, blankets, burp clothes-- we are basically ready!

Weight Gain: about 29 lbs

Blood Pressure: 106/50

Cravings: Give me all the swig cookies.

Movement: It seems like this baby pushes her bum out, my tummy always feels super hard. I feel her up in my ribs, and down in my hips.

32 weeks: Baby #2

It's crazy how I was pregnant with Goldie for 2 years and I've only been pregnant with this baby for 4 months! Really though... time is FLYING! I can't believe that basically next month we will have a baby. I had my appointment yesterday, and we got to pick out a birthdate (I have to get a C-section... this is the only perk haha). The determining factor was whenever the doctor that delivered Goldie was on call... so baby girl #2 is coming AUGUST 17! They do c-sections first thing in the morning so it could be anytime from 5:30-8-30... we will know for sure in a couple weeks. It is seriously so surreal I can't believe it!

Pregnancy Symptoms: Mostly just a growing belly... I can't see my feet, so I basically can only wear slip on shoes, because it's way too much effort to try to put on other shoes. I also have low iron this time so I've been having to take an iron supplement on top of my prenatal vitamin. I get winded walking up the stairs, have to pee like 100 times a day... all while chasing my busy toddler around... and man I love it!! I do get extremely sore by the end of the day!

Weight gain: About 25 lbs.

Blood Pressure: They weren't able to read it this time, they tried both my arms a couple times, but couldn't find it.

Cravings: Since it's been so hot lately I crave like soft serve ice cream... and coconut snow cones with sweet and condensed milk on top.

Queasy: I can't say that anything makes me want to gag anymore-- yay!!

Movement: this baby is still more mellow than goldie was... but she is starting to become a little mover as well. She is most active at night when I lay down. At our appointment yesterday the doctor said she was moving a ton when he was reading the heart rate, I think I don't notice as much because I am a little busier this time around. The doctor also said she is already head down, so that is exciting!

Goldie is still a little confused that she will soon have a little baby that is going to be living with her, and taking up half of mom's attention, but still loves to snuggle my belly and give sissy kisses. She can also say the name we like and it is like the cutest thing ever!!

24 Weeks: Baby #2

I had my glucose test today... and I didn't pass out! I would say that's a win. The doctor said everything looks good, and that he would be surprised if I had diabetes... so fingers crossed!!

Pregnancy Symptoms:  Just feeling large and in charge! It is getting hard to bend over, I get winded from walking up the stairs, and back aches. Every night I am like wow, what workout did I do today... just chase goldie around... but it feels like I ran a 10k then hit the weights at the gym! Haha! I don't sleep soundly anymore, due to comfort issues and bladder issues ;) I have started to feel less nauseous and haven't thrown up in a week! So progress is being made!

Weight Gain:  About 15 lbs.

Blood Pressure: 107/69

Cravings: Who sells cheese fries, and has fry sauce!?? Because I need them! They sound so amazing all the time. Also my usual cravings of like chocolate, ice cream, chocolate cake.... literally the list is a mile long. Which is probably why I've gained 15 lbs already. But hey, baby made me do it :)

Queasy: Dishes, the thought of cooking meat, cold food that should be hot.

Movement: Baby girls' movements are starting to get bigger and bigger! It's so much fun! She seems to be a mover just like Goldie was... so I may have my hands full, but let's get real, I will either way right?

Goldie is still a little clueless as to the fact she is going to have a sister in like 3 months, but she does lift up my shirt and say "bebe" and kiss my belly. However, she now lifts her shirt up for me to kiss her "bebe". So obviously confused haha. I think having two babies is going to be a little crazy, but I am so excited for it. I can't wait to see Goldie become a big sister, because I think she will be the best. I am still shocked as to how mothers' hearts don't explode! Right when you think your heart is full, you squeeze in room for another sweetie, to have all your love.

Bumpdate: 22 Weeks

We had our big ultrasound a couple weeks ago, everything looked good! Baby girl was measuring a little behind, but she had all her major organs, that were basically fully developed. It is truly the most amazing thing in the world! The whole ultrasound she was bent completely in half, with her little hands by her face. So tiny and cute. Goldie is still pretty oblivious that there is a real baby in my belly, but she loves lifting up my shirt and giving "bebe' loves and kisses. However, now she lifts up her shirt asking me to give her baby kisses... so I think she's a little confused. How do you even begin to explain to a one-year-old that there's a baby in your belly..??

Pregnancy Symptoms: Besides the obvious growing belly, I still get nauseous and throw up every now and again. By  the end of the day I am sore and exhausted! And its not because I work out, it is literally from just doing day to day chores and playing with Goldie. I feel healthier this pregnancy just because I chase Goldie around all day, and anyone who has a toddler knows that they take a lot of energy :) Being pregnant with a toddler is so much better in my opinion because even when I feel terrible Goldie makes me get up and play, plus you aren't counting down the weeks, they sort of fly by... and I want them to slow down so Goldie can stay my baby for a little longer. I know when baby sister comes she will grow up even more. 

Weight Gain: At my 20 week appointment I gained 10 lbs. 

Cravings: Slurpees have sounded amazing lately. Ice cream, french fries WITH fry sauce, and cheese fries, even better. Literally hungry all the time, and everything sounds good. 

Queasy: Smells still, dishes... ew, I have thrown up in the garbage can too many times to count. Also cooking and meats makes me gag. 

Maternity Clothes: I found so maternity pants that I LOVE!! I got them from H & M and they actually fit tight everywhere... my waist, and bum, legs! I am loving them, so I wear them like everyday. That and usually an oversized t-shirt that aren't technically maternity wear but just semi-flattering haha.

Movement: The movements are just getting bigger and bigger! I love feeling her tumble and kick! It is hands down the best thing about pregnancy. I usually only feel the movements at night because I have no time during the day to sit it seems! Every now and again I will feel a couple jabs though. 

I told myself I would be better at taking pictures this pregnancy and so far, I am no better! I need to be though!

18 weeks: baby #2

Wow. Almost half way! It is crazy how much faster pregnancy goes having a baby/toddler to keep me busy. On the flip side, I do feel like I am further along when I look in the mirror and see a visibly pregnant belly. Like am I the only one who feels like they popped way sooner than I did with Goldie. I don't know if this baby girl is a little on the chubby side but man... I'm already bumpin'!

Pregnancy Symptoms: Still going through some morning sickness. Blah. Trying my hardest to not throw up but am failing miserably. I don't know what it is but I get really sick it seems with pregnancy. I am already in the wake up in the middle of the night to pee stage. :) yay! haha. I've had problems with my SI joint from an old soccer injury, and it always flares up when I'm pregnant. Other than that I'm doing great! I feel like I'm starting to have more energy, but then 4 comes around and I need a nap!

Weight Gain: 8 lbs. I am good at packing on the pounds... what can I say!?

Cravings: Still spicy chicken sandwiches- chick-fa-la, or McDonalds will do! Then also this protein shake I make thats bomb!!

Queasy: Smells still.

Maternity Clothes: my pants still fit but my high waisted ones I have to do the rubber band trick... which is not comfortable... and I'm all about comfort! So maternity jeans and yoga pants! Maternity pants are like all too big in the waist. It's like I need a smaller size but they don't make a smaller size so... yeah.

Movement: Yes!!! I have felt the little butterfly movements and some big movements that have made me like freak out! Like a tiny elbow or knee poking me!

We love you baby girl!!! Your big sis is sooooo excited to meet you, she gives you loves and kisses all day!

Baby #2 is a...

GIRL!! We are having another girl!! I must say I was a little surprised, I thought we were having a boy (again- I felt this way with Goldie too), but I am so excited to have two sisters close together. They will be 20 months apart, so it will be so fun! Scott guessed right again! He said he always thought he would be a girl dad, and I thought I would be a boy mom... but apparently I'm a girl mom! And I am loving it :) Goldie has been so fun, so if this girl is anything like Goldie I say give me all the girls! Hopefully they like soccer, because I don't know anything about dance ;)

I found out at 15 weeks, so a little early because we can't wait! We went to fetal fotos at south towne mall and it was actually pretty legit. The guy that did the ultra sound was great and Scott actually could point out it was a girl! We got to see the little one sucking her thumb, looking at us, and kicking her little legs. I swear there is nothing like seeing your baby. It truly is a miracle to watch them grown inside and outside the womb. Motherhood is magical. But she is healthy and measuring great!

I hope Scott is ready for all the estrogen coming for him... especially in the teenage years ;) We are so excited for this new addition! Now I need to think up some girl names...

14 Weeks

I am FINALLY out of the 1st trimester!! YAY! Actually... it has gone by a little faster than my pregnancy with Goldie... probably because Goldie is keeping me really busy!

Pregnancy Symptoms: I thought I was out of the morning sickness/throwing up phase... but unfortunately I threw up 3 times this week so far. So I am hoping this ends  soon! I am starting to feel less tired and have a little bit more energy which is really nice!

Weight Gain: 4 lbs so far. Last pregnancy I literally gained 50 lbs! Most of it came off pretty easy thanks to breastfeeding!

Cravings:  Anything and everything that is not good for me! Soft serve vanilla ice cream, fries (sweet potato fries), spicy McChicken sandwiches from McDonald's (weird right?!), and Capt'n Crunch cereal. So yeah eating pretty healthy over here!

Queasy: Smells-- dishes, milk, cold food that needs warmed up... I am literally gagging thinking about it! Yuck!

Maternity Clothes: Not really any yet, but I am about to whip out some pants! Last pregnancy I wanted to stay in my pants as long as possible... so uncomfortable!! I am all about comfort this time. My jeans are getting so uncomfortable because I am showing enough for someone to ask if I was pregnant.. :) Bring on all the maternity clothes!

Best Moment this Week: We went to the Doctor today and got to hear the baby's heartbeat! It took the doctor a little bit to find it but hearing it was the best feeling!

Boy or Girl?: You guys!! I have no clue. It differs every day for me! I would be so happy with either. If it was a girl Scott may let us have a third kid ;) if its a boy then we have a boy and girl! Scott thinks another girl. I hope to find out next week sometime!

2 "bebes"

I LOVE Goldie's personality! She is the most outgoing, friendly, and sweetest little girl! She is always keeping us laughing, chasing, and smiling. I swear she has some tom boy in her because man, she is waaaaay active. Other girls her age seem very mellow, and what not, but Goldie is always all over the place. I love it, but it  makes for some tiring days :)

On Sunday during class we said the opening prayer and after everyone said "amen" Goldie (loudly) says, "Oh yeah! I was dying it was too funny.

So I am now 12 weeks preggo... almost out of the first trimester! Thank heaven. And yes, I have an already pregnant belly, and yes have actually been asked if I am pregnant. I don't know how to feel about it, but I guess that's the down side of having a short body, and no torso... baby's got no where to hide! So Goldie too has been noticing my growing belly, and its safe to say she's in LOVE. She always wants to give baby loves and kisses, but it has to be my bare baby, she will just keep lifting up my layers until she finds it. When she does she gets so excited and squeals, "bebe!" We will see if these feelings remain once the baby gets here :) 

These are moments I want to remember forever.

Photos by Shaylei Halling Photograpy

Baby #2

We are so excited to announce that baby Probert #2 is on the way! My official due date is August 22, but after our first doctor's appointment speaking with the doctor about my previous C-section it could be a week before. Okay fine by me :) Since I did end up having an emergency C-section the doctor recommended having another C-section, especially based on my body's anatomy.

I won't lie, Goldie's birth went nothing like I expected, and sometimes I find myself feeling kind of guilty about it. I wanted to go into labor naturally and have the doctors put her up on my chest right after she was born... and I would just get to hold her and take in the moment. However, things went differently. After 38 hours of labor, and 24 of them being without an epidural, a C-section, my body was EXHAUSTED. Like I could barely open my eyes, and I was faint from losing so much blood. I didn't get to hold Goldie for a couple hours because I was so weak. And that was really hard for me.

The doctor made me feel a lot better saying this time around I won't have to go through labor, I can get a good night's sleep the night before, and I won't be 41 weeks pregnant! So I can be as alert after a surgery as I can.

My heart is just so full, and super excited. Motherhood is really something special. There's really nothing else I would rather do :) I am forever grateful for the opportunities I have had to become a mom!

So far I have been feeling quite nauseous... and have thrown up a handful of times... if not thrown up gagging and trying not to throw up haha! I feel bad for Goldie because I have sort have been a lazy mom because maaaan fatigue is hitting me hard!! Hopefully she doesn't remember me laying down in the bathroom while she takes a long bath ;)