Hello All,
We are just trucking along here in the Balough Household. We had a nice Thanksgiving with just the 3 of us and I successfully made my first Turkey!!! I am 25 weeks along and we have found out we are expecting another little girl!!! This is pretty exciting because we pretty much have everything for a little girl. We are getting super excited for March to get here!
Today I wanted to post something that has really been making me think lately and that is if I am really relying too much on the digital age to raise my child. I always swore I wouldn't let my television be a babysitter and that I would try to be super involved with my child when she was playing but I have sorely missed the mark on that aspiration. I feel like we as a society (not everyone of course) are letting are children be raised and taught by television, computers and Leap Frog. What happened to the days when you would buy a pack of flashcards and sit down with your child and TEACH them their colors or letters? Now a days, parents throw a Ipad or phone or computer at there kids and think that it is going to help them. I am not saying that you need to cut out all electronics, but just examine (as I am) exactly how much time you let your kids engage in digital devices. I see so many times parents gloating that their kids know how to get into their phone and play games....why is that good? Ady has NO idea how to get into my phone and find her games and on the off chance she is playing a game and it exits she has to bring it to me to get her back into it. I pride myself on that fact because it means she hasn't been on it enough to know how it works. I use to pat myself on the back when my child would rather play with the toys at the doctor than be on a video game or my phone to pass the time. I have realized now that I am guilty of using the television as a crutch instead of my phone or tablets. If I need two seconds of relief I go straight for the tv and get upset if she is not interested in watching it....WHAT? I get upset because she DOES NOT want to watch television? What is wrong with me? It just goes to show how much I have relied on a digital device to help me. All of this being said I think we as parents truly set the example for our children.
Parents are who children look to to set an example on how to conduct themselves. If they see mommy and daddy sucked into a video game for hours and not spending time with the family then why should they have to engage with others either? I lose my phone more that anything, if you know me you know I seem to never be able to locate it or it's dead, but when I find it I seem to not me able to put it down. I am looking on Facebook or my true addiction Pinterest. My child sees this and on some days she comes up and will take it out of my hand and put it down. My child knows she is more important and that I should be playing with her and not my phone. I believe that this is why sometimes she acts out because she thinks it is the best way to grab my attention if I'm glued to my phone. This is not a post berating those that use digital devices...hello guilty party! I just want to make myself accountable to my family and friends that I want to be a more involved parent. I want to trade some of those television hours for outdoor time and not just me sitting there watching her but playing WITH her. I want to hide my phone so I won't be tempted to block my child or husband out. Yep, I even said husband! How can I genuinely spend time with my husband if we are both staring at our phones? All of this being said let us parents just try to find small ways to take back our families and kids from the digital bonds that have seemed to ensnare them. If you want them to play a learning game on there tablets that's great maybe next time sit down and do flashcards or read a book. I know I am going to really try to replace the time we spend dedicated to electronics with quality family time.
Thanks for reading my rant! I know it was kinda all over the place but that is what a personal rant is for right?
Morgan
Friday, December 6, 2013
Thursday, September 26, 2013
We're Back!!!
Hello All,
Yep we are back on the blog o sphere!!! I know it has been years since our last post but we have been moving and making changes and going with the flow so now hopefully we can settle down and keep everyone updated on our crazy life.
We ended the last blog expecting our first child Adalynn and we start this one back up expecting our second child. We have since moved from HI and were in Fort Benning GA for about 6 months for Nate to attend his Captain's course. It was fun having a change of scenery but I was quite anxious to get to our final station which is Fort Stewart GA.
We are currently in Colorado for Nate to take is Space Courses, which is also a new development. Nate has changed his MOS to Space Operations and he is quite excited about it and the future possibilities. Ady and I followed him out here and are headed out to Fort Stewart in a little over a week. I am so excited to get to Fort Stewart and get our house set up. We are living off base this time and I am so in love with the house we are renting. We are going to be able to do some painting. It was a blessing we found this house, it belongs to a guy Nate went to school with and they were looking to rent it out and Nate had mentioned that we were looking for a place and viola! Funny enough it has EVERYTHING we wanted...a huge fenced backyard, 3 bedrooms and a bonus room and a covered porch..say what????
Ady will be starting what Nate and I call Pre Pre School. We were able to tour the facility when we visited in July. I think she is going to have so much fun. We are only sending her 2 days a week for now to get her in the swing of it and then see how she does and maybe increase her days. This will be a blessing as I will be caring for our new addition in March!
Well, that is a quick update and we are gonna try to post more (lol) as time goes on. We ask for your prayers as we complete this transitional period.
The Baloughs
Yep we are back on the blog o sphere!!! I know it has been years since our last post but we have been moving and making changes and going with the flow so now hopefully we can settle down and keep everyone updated on our crazy life.
We ended the last blog expecting our first child Adalynn and we start this one back up expecting our second child. We have since moved from HI and were in Fort Benning GA for about 6 months for Nate to attend his Captain's course. It was fun having a change of scenery but I was quite anxious to get to our final station which is Fort Stewart GA.
We are currently in Colorado for Nate to take is Space Courses, which is also a new development. Nate has changed his MOS to Space Operations and he is quite excited about it and the future possibilities. Ady and I followed him out here and are headed out to Fort Stewart in a little over a week. I am so excited to get to Fort Stewart and get our house set up. We are living off base this time and I am so in love with the house we are renting. We are going to be able to do some painting. It was a blessing we found this house, it belongs to a guy Nate went to school with and they were looking to rent it out and Nate had mentioned that we were looking for a place and viola! Funny enough it has EVERYTHING we wanted...a huge fenced backyard, 3 bedrooms and a bonus room and a covered porch..say what????
Ady will be starting what Nate and I call Pre Pre School. We were able to tour the facility when we visited in July. I think she is going to have so much fun. We are only sending her 2 days a week for now to get her in the swing of it and then see how she does and maybe increase her days. This will be a blessing as I will be caring for our new addition in March!
Well, that is a quick update and we are gonna try to post more (lol) as time goes on. We ask for your prayers as we complete this transitional period.
The Baloughs
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Reflections of a Spouse and a Thank you!
I am sitting at my dining room table early this Tuesday morning, getting up sporadically to tend to the puppies and needing to finish my Bible Study. I am going to venture a little off of the pregnancy updating for this post and post about some things I have learned recently (meaning the last couple of years). Forgive me in the beginning for the randomness and such of this blog.
I have been involved with my new Bible study going on about 4 weeks now and I am learning so much about what it means to be a wife and a spouse under God's guidelines. Therefore, I have also been thinking about the journey I have already taken along the way as a spouse, a military one at that.
I have just been thinking of the women I have met along the way that define what a military wife is and what she is asked to do on a daily basis. I made a little list just for fun so I thought I would share some of the ones I have heard and witnessed first hand:
1. Plans will ALWAYS change.
2. Sleep is more of a suggestion than anything.
3. You need to know how to be a Mom and a Dad.
4. You need to have Poison Control on speed dial.
5. Pets are really there to keep the kids occupied so you can have a moment to yourself.
6. A piece of mail that has traveled thousands of miles can mean more than any diamond or ruby.
7. You have signs in your house that say where you have been, but you have NO idea where you could be going.
8. Your circle of friends spans the world, but when you need them they seem like they are right next to you.
9. It is so ok to cry, especially for no reason ;).
10. The expectant mother pass they give you gets thrown away bc EVERYONE is pregnant so your not getting a parking space any way!
11. Prayer can move mountains, rivers, oceans, volcanoes ext.
12. Things can always get worse before they get better.
13. It is ok to say NO to the bake sale, car wash or other things you are asked to do ;).
14. It's ok to be selfish sometimes.
15. Having a close knit family can make all the difference!
16. Remember everything can change in a moment...you can never say thank you or i love you too much.
17. It does pay to "pay" (tithe) God first!
Well, that list was a little longer than I wanted it and it doesn't even scratch the surface. When Nate and I first got married learning how to be a spouse was crazy and new and I always felt like I was doing it wrong. Nate was always there to tell me that if you burn it there is always McDonald's ;), if you break it we can replace it, and if nothing seems to be going our way it is ALWAYS going God's way (this one of the reasons I love my hubby). I started to get the hang of this military life and built up a routine. I thought I had being a spouse completely figured out! Now, again I sit here at my dining room table and think how different being a spouse is to a deployed soldier. I don't have to get up and make him breakfast after PT, no uniforms or smelly clothes to wash, and no random phones calls during dinner that receive a look of 'you are home now NO work' ;). I have had to change the way I communicate and react. Nate's face on Skype is better than ANY television show on tv. Letters and cards overflow on my table. I have never been so excited to send someone else a package. Nate's handwriting has become the prettiest in the world, and if you've seen his writing then you know this is a big deal. I am looking forward to the first load of laundry that has his multi-cam in it ;).
I have learned so much in these last 6 months that I feel will def. propel me into being a better spouse, friend and family member. One huge thing I have realized that has made all of this bearable, even on the worst of days, is our family! I know on Saturdays at 9am I will get a Skype call from our Grandparents. Sunday I will talk to Dad and Momma K. On any day of the week that I have a crazy question I will be found talking to my Mom. In the random hours of the night I will text with my sister and between our crazy schedules will find time to talk for hours. I know that the overloaded packages are from the Curtis clan. I know that every other weekend I can call and hear my Nana, aunt and uncle having fun in Orangeburg. How can I feel alone with so much love and support surrounding me. I find such joy in being able to say OUR family, we have become ONE. I send out a big thanks to all of you for your support for me and for Nate. We cannot even begin to explain how much it means to us to receive calls, text messages, letters, packages and skype calls from you all. You mean the world to us!
There is so much more to say, but I will be late to Bible Study. Thank you, also to our friends who have been so great and supportive through all of this, there are so many to list (you know who you are). Even the smallest gestures have meant so much! We love you all and can't wait to introduce Ady into this amazing family and friends we have. We love you!
The Baloughs
I have been involved with my new Bible study going on about 4 weeks now and I am learning so much about what it means to be a wife and a spouse under God's guidelines. Therefore, I have also been thinking about the journey I have already taken along the way as a spouse, a military one at that.
I have just been thinking of the women I have met along the way that define what a military wife is and what she is asked to do on a daily basis. I made a little list just for fun so I thought I would share some of the ones I have heard and witnessed first hand:
1. Plans will ALWAYS change.
2. Sleep is more of a suggestion than anything.
3. You need to know how to be a Mom and a Dad.
4. You need to have Poison Control on speed dial.
5. Pets are really there to keep the kids occupied so you can have a moment to yourself.
6. A piece of mail that has traveled thousands of miles can mean more than any diamond or ruby.
7. You have signs in your house that say where you have been, but you have NO idea where you could be going.
8. Your circle of friends spans the world, but when you need them they seem like they are right next to you.
9. It is so ok to cry, especially for no reason ;).
10. The expectant mother pass they give you gets thrown away bc EVERYONE is pregnant so your not getting a parking space any way!
11. Prayer can move mountains, rivers, oceans, volcanoes ext.
12. Things can always get worse before they get better.
13. It is ok to say NO to the bake sale, car wash or other things you are asked to do ;).
14. It's ok to be selfish sometimes.
15. Having a close knit family can make all the difference!
16. Remember everything can change in a moment...you can never say thank you or i love you too much.
17. It does pay to "pay" (tithe) God first!
Well, that list was a little longer than I wanted it and it doesn't even scratch the surface. When Nate and I first got married learning how to be a spouse was crazy and new and I always felt like I was doing it wrong. Nate was always there to tell me that if you burn it there is always McDonald's ;), if you break it we can replace it, and if nothing seems to be going our way it is ALWAYS going God's way (this one of the reasons I love my hubby). I started to get the hang of this military life and built up a routine. I thought I had being a spouse completely figured out! Now, again I sit here at my dining room table and think how different being a spouse is to a deployed soldier. I don't have to get up and make him breakfast after PT, no uniforms or smelly clothes to wash, and no random phones calls during dinner that receive a look of 'you are home now NO work' ;). I have had to change the way I communicate and react. Nate's face on Skype is better than ANY television show on tv. Letters and cards overflow on my table. I have never been so excited to send someone else a package. Nate's handwriting has become the prettiest in the world, and if you've seen his writing then you know this is a big deal. I am looking forward to the first load of laundry that has his multi-cam in it ;).
I have learned so much in these last 6 months that I feel will def. propel me into being a better spouse, friend and family member. One huge thing I have realized that has made all of this bearable, even on the worst of days, is our family! I know on Saturdays at 9am I will get a Skype call from our Grandparents. Sunday I will talk to Dad and Momma K. On any day of the week that I have a crazy question I will be found talking to my Mom. In the random hours of the night I will text with my sister and between our crazy schedules will find time to talk for hours. I know that the overloaded packages are from the Curtis clan. I know that every other weekend I can call and hear my Nana, aunt and uncle having fun in Orangeburg. How can I feel alone with so much love and support surrounding me. I find such joy in being able to say OUR family, we have become ONE. I send out a big thanks to all of you for your support for me and for Nate. We cannot even begin to explain how much it means to us to receive calls, text messages, letters, packages and skype calls from you all. You mean the world to us!
There is so much more to say, but I will be late to Bible Study. Thank you, also to our friends who have been so great and supportive through all of this, there are so many to list (you know who you are). Even the smallest gestures have meant so much! We love you all and can't wait to introduce Ady into this amazing family and friends we have. We love you!
The Baloughs
Sunday, September 18, 2011
Daddy on the Go in Afghanistan
What's up with Dad?
The weather here has become much more manageable, which means it is getting into the low 100s high 90s on a regular basis. Also, we have finished our Change of Command which means I now have a new boss. The inventories went well, and everything got taken care of. Next, is Reset. Reset is where the Army fixes the equipment we have in theater and gets it back to fully operational. Once Reset is complete it is tie to start sending containers and people home for good. Mixed in there somewhere will be NCR&R, which means I will be sitting in Hawaii enjoying the wifey, puppies, and a cute little newborn baby. This is pretty much it here in Afghanistan.
What's up with Mom?
Morgan has been prepping the house and getting ready for Ady to come into the world. Baxter and Oreo evidently had a great play date with the neighbor so we will see how they will do with Ady.
Well, I will let her update you guys more when she sends her bog next.
The weather here has become much more manageable, which means it is getting into the low 100s high 90s on a regular basis. Also, we have finished our Change of Command which means I now have a new boss. The inventories went well, and everything got taken care of. Next, is Reset. Reset is where the Army fixes the equipment we have in theater and gets it back to fully operational. Once Reset is complete it is tie to start sending containers and people home for good. Mixed in there somewhere will be NCR&R, which means I will be sitting in Hawaii enjoying the wifey, puppies, and a cute little newborn baby. This is pretty much it here in Afghanistan.
What's up with Mom?
Morgan has been prepping the house and getting ready for Ady to come into the world. Baxter and Oreo evidently had a great play date with the neighbor so we will see how they will do with Ady.
Well, I will let her update you guys more when she sends her bog next.
Saturday, September 10, 2011
Mommy's Sept. Update
HelloAll,
It's my turn to update the blog so here it goes...
What's Up with Mom?
Well, I have been trying to keep busy so time passes faster, although I do like 'days off'. I have joined the Spouses club here in HI so that means monthly luncheons and events to attend. I have also volunteered to help out at the Thrift Shop. The good thing about helping out at the Thrift Shop is I can pick when I volunteer and how often, which will be great when baby comes and then they also give free child care so I won't have to worry about finding someone to watch Ady. I am still continuing my FRG stuff. I am attending a Spouses Conference in October which is going to be fun. I will get to participate in a couple different classes about couponing, decorating (food and the home) and some other classes. At the end of September I am also going to take a cooking class which should be fun. My friends are also throwing me a shower in October so that will be something to look forward to. I still have a lot to do like finding someone to do Maternity photos and newborn photos. I am still working on packing bags for everyone and loading them in the car! I am also working on some Fall/Halloween projects, because it is my favorite season ;). That is about it for my schedule.
What's Up with Dad?
Nate, like he said in his last post, has been very busy with inventory and the change of command. He has found some time to relax though and participate in the family Fantasy Football draft. He was also able to participate in the Pros vs. GI Joes video game night. He also won the Corn Hole tournament they had at his FOB. He is managing to have some normalcy while over there. He will hopefully be preparing to come home for RandR here soon for November.
What's Up with Ady?
Well, Miss Ady is as busy as ever ;). She finds times between poking mommy in the stomach to kick my bladder, then she finds time for her beauty rest. She likes listening and dancing to music, especially in church. She has shown me multiple times that she doesn't like when mommy eats spicy foods. She is continuing to grow each day and we have our 32week apt. next Friday!!!! Only 9 more weeks (hopefully) til she makes her grand entrance.
Randomness:
Cravings: Seafood, Spicy Food
Clothing: Dresses are my best friend! They show off the bump but don't make me feel like a sack of potatoes. Most of my shirts are getting to the "too short" mark which means SHOPPING!
Activities: I try to walk about 3+ miles a week. I am finding it harder to bend over and get things. It might be time for YOGA!
Sleeping: My hips start hurting so flipping over has become more frequent. Naps are always a good thing ;)
Doggies: Oh those puppies make every day so much fun ;). Oreo likes to lay her head on my belly and "listen" to Ady and Baxter just likes to step on her and assert his "dominance" LOL.
Doctor's Visits: Next apt. is Sept. 16th for our 32 week check up. Still no word on the results of my glucose test.
Hobbies: Napping and trying out new recipes!
Well, that is about it from this Hawaii Balough. Aloha!
-Mommy Balough
It's my turn to update the blog so here it goes...
What's Up with Mom?
Well, I have been trying to keep busy so time passes faster, although I do like 'days off'. I have joined the Spouses club here in HI so that means monthly luncheons and events to attend. I have also volunteered to help out at the Thrift Shop. The good thing about helping out at the Thrift Shop is I can pick when I volunteer and how often, which will be great when baby comes and then they also give free child care so I won't have to worry about finding someone to watch Ady. I am still continuing my FRG stuff. I am attending a Spouses Conference in October which is going to be fun. I will get to participate in a couple different classes about couponing, decorating (food and the home) and some other classes. At the end of September I am also going to take a cooking class which should be fun. My friends are also throwing me a shower in October so that will be something to look forward to. I still have a lot to do like finding someone to do Maternity photos and newborn photos. I am still working on packing bags for everyone and loading them in the car! I am also working on some Fall/Halloween projects, because it is my favorite season ;). That is about it for my schedule.
What's Up with Dad?
Nate, like he said in his last post, has been very busy with inventory and the change of command. He has found some time to relax though and participate in the family Fantasy Football draft. He was also able to participate in the Pros vs. GI Joes video game night. He also won the Corn Hole tournament they had at his FOB. He is managing to have some normalcy while over there. He will hopefully be preparing to come home for RandR here soon for November.
What's Up with Ady?
Well, Miss Ady is as busy as ever ;). She finds times between poking mommy in the stomach to kick my bladder, then she finds time for her beauty rest. She likes listening and dancing to music, especially in church. She has shown me multiple times that she doesn't like when mommy eats spicy foods. She is continuing to grow each day and we have our 32week apt. next Friday!!!! Only 9 more weeks (hopefully) til she makes her grand entrance.
Randomness:
Cravings: Seafood, Spicy Food
Clothing: Dresses are my best friend! They show off the bump but don't make me feel like a sack of potatoes. Most of my shirts are getting to the "too short" mark which means SHOPPING!
Activities: I try to walk about 3+ miles a week. I am finding it harder to bend over and get things. It might be time for YOGA!
Sleeping: My hips start hurting so flipping over has become more frequent. Naps are always a good thing ;)
Doggies: Oh those puppies make every day so much fun ;). Oreo likes to lay her head on my belly and "listen" to Ady and Baxter just likes to step on her and assert his "dominance" LOL.
Doctor's Visits: Next apt. is Sept. 16th for our 32 week check up. Still no word on the results of my glucose test.
Hobbies: Napping and trying out new recipes!
Well, that is about it from this Hawaii Balough. Aloha!
-Mommy Balough
Thursday, September 1, 2011
Daddy to be On the Go in Afghanistan
Well, Afghanistan is really hot still, that much has not changed, but right now our Brigade HHC is going through a huge change as the Commander is transitioning. In the next few weeks we will complete $40 million worth of inventories ensuring the new commander has inspected all property items. This means I have PLENTY to do. Also, I turned 27 while in Afghanistan along with a few of my fellow Officers and NCOs in 3rd Brigade 25th ID. I put up a couple picture of the cakes that Morgan sent to me. They were AMAZING. I am so excited about Ady coming, and getting to go home in November.
Today we had thunderstorm in Afghanistan and the rain could not have been any more welcome. The place flooded in some sections, and I don't understand why? We have been in Afghanistan for ten years and why do we have problems with water flow and irrigation. We are almost done with the change of command inventories which means that I get to move on to my next phase of deployment. That also means I get a new boss, and it will work well.I had the weirdest smell recognition moment the other day. I walked out of my barracks room and smelled the grease from a fifth wheel of an eighteen wheeler. That sent me back to the days of my dad taking me to Kaplan Trucking.
Morgan is doing such a great job at home keeping the puppies and baby to be. I am so proud of her and everything she is doing. Ady has her bed, dresser, swing, and LOTS of clothes. I am so thankful for everyone sending the clothes to keep Ady clothed and prepared for the beginning of her life. Well, I am going to go and I will let Morgan caught you up from Hawai'i.
Today we had thunderstorm in Afghanistan and the rain could not have been any more welcome. The place flooded in some sections, and I don't understand why? We have been in Afghanistan for ten years and why do we have problems with water flow and irrigation. We are almost done with the change of command inventories which means that I get to move on to my next phase of deployment. That also means I get a new boss, and it will work well.I had the weirdest smell recognition moment the other day. I walked out of my barracks room and smelled the grease from a fifth wheel of an eighteen wheeler. That sent me back to the days of my dad taking me to Kaplan Trucking.
Morgan is doing such a great job at home keeping the puppies and baby to be. I am so proud of her and everything she is doing. Ady has her bed, dresser, swing, and LOTS of clothes. I am so thankful for everyone sending the clothes to keep Ady clothed and prepared for the beginning of her life. Well, I am going to go and I will let Morgan caught you up from Hawai'i.
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
Mommy to be on the go!
Well, here I go again with another Mommy to be update (and it didn't take a month!)...
I have a lot of things coming up with the FRG as well as with me personally. We are going into overdrive mode in preparations for the troops returning home in a couple of months. I have meetings to go to and events to help plan, which I enjoy because it makes me feel needed and useful. I just signed up for a new Bible study called 'Excellent Wife'. It will give a biblical perspective on how to be an "excellent" wife for your husband. I am looking forward to starting it next Tuesday. I am also joining the spouses club called the Hui (sp?). This should be exciting to get to meet other military spouses and join more fun little groups. I am also starting a weekly lunch with a couple new friends of mine and we are going to try a different restaurant for lunch every week. All of this should hopefully keep me super busy until the baby comes.
Nate and I have ordered Ady's nursery furniture so we are now just waiting for it to arrive so I can finish decorating her room and put it all together! We are so thankful for all of the gifts that we have received! We have amazing friends and families! Nate and I have decided to go with a travel system and now we are just trying to find the perfect one for us!
Nate has been so amazing throughout this entire pregnancy! I forget sometimes that he isn't here in HI physically with me because he stays so involved. I am constantly getting emails about new things people have told him about or that he has researched, which makes me super happy! He is reading his "daddy books" as he calls them and is putting me to shame with all of his vast knowledge. He loves to sing to Ady and she often kicks in response to her Daddy's voice. I cannot wait for Nate to come home on R&R, I am so ready for a Nate hug. Although, I have heard he has lost 20lbs!!! I hope there is enough left for me to hold onto with that hug, but he works out twice a day so I'm thinking I'll be hugging a rock ;).
Well that is about all for now! We hope you are all doing well and Nate's up next from across the pond!
The Baloughs
Prayer Requests:
1. Nate makes it home for Ady's arrival!
2. My 28wk doctor's apt on Friday.
3. My glucose test on Thursday.
4. The deployed troops and the moral amongst the soldiers.
Cravings: Hot Wings, fried pickles and fruit
Clothes: Leaning more towards dresses these days ;)
Rings: Still fit great!
Emotions: Past cry baby stage now into "I will cut you" stage...I take no prisoners!
Puppies: Are stuck to me like GLUE! Oreo views my tummy as her pillow and Baxter views it as his trampoline!
Pains: Just my pinched Sciatic nerve ;(
Movements: Ady is moving up a storm, she really reacts to music.
New Happenings: I now know what heart burn feels like...Boo!
I have a lot of things coming up with the FRG as well as with me personally. We are going into overdrive mode in preparations for the troops returning home in a couple of months. I have meetings to go to and events to help plan, which I enjoy because it makes me feel needed and useful. I just signed up for a new Bible study called 'Excellent Wife'. It will give a biblical perspective on how to be an "excellent" wife for your husband. I am looking forward to starting it next Tuesday. I am also joining the spouses club called the Hui (sp?). This should be exciting to get to meet other military spouses and join more fun little groups. I am also starting a weekly lunch with a couple new friends of mine and we are going to try a different restaurant for lunch every week. All of this should hopefully keep me super busy until the baby comes.
Nate and I have ordered Ady's nursery furniture so we are now just waiting for it to arrive so I can finish decorating her room and put it all together! We are so thankful for all of the gifts that we have received! We have amazing friends and families! Nate and I have decided to go with a travel system and now we are just trying to find the perfect one for us!
Nate has been so amazing throughout this entire pregnancy! I forget sometimes that he isn't here in HI physically with me because he stays so involved. I am constantly getting emails about new things people have told him about or that he has researched, which makes me super happy! He is reading his "daddy books" as he calls them and is putting me to shame with all of his vast knowledge. He loves to sing to Ady and she often kicks in response to her Daddy's voice. I cannot wait for Nate to come home on R&R, I am so ready for a Nate hug. Although, I have heard he has lost 20lbs!!! I hope there is enough left for me to hold onto with that hug, but he works out twice a day so I'm thinking I'll be hugging a rock ;).
Well that is about all for now! We hope you are all doing well and Nate's up next from across the pond!
The Baloughs
Prayer Requests:
1. Nate makes it home for Ady's arrival!
2. My 28wk doctor's apt on Friday.
3. My glucose test on Thursday.
4. The deployed troops and the moral amongst the soldiers.
Cravings: Hot Wings, fried pickles and fruit
Clothes: Leaning more towards dresses these days ;)
Rings: Still fit great!
Emotions: Past cry baby stage now into "I will cut you" stage...I take no prisoners!
Puppies: Are stuck to me like GLUE! Oreo views my tummy as her pillow and Baxter views it as his trampoline!
Pains: Just my pinched Sciatic nerve ;(
Movements: Ady is moving up a storm, she really reacts to music.
New Happenings: I now know what heart burn feels like...Boo!
Monday, August 15, 2011
Lady bugs
So what's new???
Afghanistan is hot, so not change there , but I did get to to see the greatest thing in the world the other day thanks to Skype. What is it?? Look below I shall make you wait till the end.
Life here in Afghanistan is picking up with a Change of Command coming up I keep busy making sure $40 million worth of the governments' money is not lost or wasted. Which means I am VERY busy, but I guess that is the life of an Executive Officer. I am trying to get everything ready to send home too, which is only six months away. Now, I am waiting I put in for a Branch transfer, which means if I get it there is a 98% chance Morgan, Ady, Baxter, Oreo, and I will be cozying it up in the Rockies. (Yes, Tim you can come visit and go to a Rockies game). Well, that is the updates for the Army side.
Morgan has made this a very easy deployment, due to all the letters and cards I get from her. I don't understand why mail takes so long to get home, but it can get here in nine days from Hawaii. I get the Mail Clerk come by at least once a week bringing me a letter or card from M. Balough. I think they finally figured out who it was (DUH Morgan). I am so thankful for all of my family that has sent me mail, packages, and comfort items. Morgan Balough, Ashley Balough, Timothy Balough, Denise Kolakowski, Curtis Clan, Salley Williams, Jane Davis (Greenville Upstate Blue Star Mothers), just to name a few, and Amazon. I have been so blessed that Morgan has sent me pictures in the electronic mail so I can feel part of the pregnancy. She is got to be the MOST GORGEOUS pregnant woman EVER !!!! I cannot wait to come home and see Morgan and little Ady still in the belly, then she can pop out. I am good with Morgan going into labor at the airport as long as I can see Ady and say hey while she is still in Morgan's belly. Question is what do I do with my luggage? Wait for it or have someone pick it up???? Let's pass on the Airport labor part, that might not be as fun as I think.
Two Interesting things that happened recently that made my heart flip!!
1) I was around when another Soldier opened his care package, and he threw me something. I did not realize what it was at first and then I flipped it over and realized it was a little Lady bug bean bag animal, just an amazing realization that Lady bugs is perfect for Ady.
2) See below
Morgan is up next which means another month till the next post. Thanks to all who follow and enjoy reading the life of the Baloughs with a little critter on the way.
The Baloughs
P.S. The cool fact: I got to see Ady kick on Skype!!! Got to be the best present I could have got over Skype. Love you Ady and Morgan.
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
Mommy to be update!
It's my turn again! I don't know where to start. I guess with feeling and seeing Ady move. I finally got to see her kick!!! It was the most amazing thing ever. Since the 'first' kick, she has been moving up a storm. She was quite the moving one in church on Sunday, especially when it was time for the music ;). Nate did finally get to see her kick but I will let him tell you about that ;).
I have been working on lots of baby things lately. I know time is going to fly by in these last weeks and I am def. behind. I have all the decorations for her room ready execpt one or two. I still need to find a crib that I am happy with, it's so hard to choose! I have moved on a little from onesies and have started working on bows. I am trying to stay busy so I don't go stir crazy waiting for baby and Nate to get here!
Nate and I have been talking a lot about what we want our family to be like and how we want to raise our babies ;). I am so excited to start our family. I know babies are not a new thing, but for Nate and I we are just over the moon excited for our baby. My mom has done nothing but talk about little Ady ;) and the puppies. It is so fun sending her weekly photos. She is going to come out in December for a little bit to help me after Nate leaves, which I am so thankful for. It is amazing to think how many people love our daughter even before she is here ;). It's a def. encouragement knowing we have such an amazing support system behind us.
On another note Nate and I have been working on a verse for baby Ady. We want just a verse of encouragement and one to represent what we want for our little girl. We think we have decided on Isaiah 40:30-31. I am so excited to teach our little girl about scripture and I am hoping Nate and I can take her to her first "church service" together after she is born ;).
Well, again not much going on here. I had a good doctor's visit with everything is checking out very good. She is measuring exactly what she should be and heartbeat is 150. My next appointment will be in about 2-3 weeks and I will have to take another glucose test, prayers appreciated! Nate is next with his Balough Bundle update!
The Baloughs
I have been working on lots of baby things lately. I know time is going to fly by in these last weeks and I am def. behind. I have all the decorations for her room ready execpt one or two. I still need to find a crib that I am happy with, it's so hard to choose! I have moved on a little from onesies and have started working on bows. I am trying to stay busy so I don't go stir crazy waiting for baby and Nate to get here!
Nate and I have been talking a lot about what we want our family to be like and how we want to raise our babies ;). I am so excited to start our family. I know babies are not a new thing, but for Nate and I we are just over the moon excited for our baby. My mom has done nothing but talk about little Ady ;) and the puppies. It is so fun sending her weekly photos. She is going to come out in December for a little bit to help me after Nate leaves, which I am so thankful for. It is amazing to think how many people love our daughter even before she is here ;). It's a def. encouragement knowing we have such an amazing support system behind us.
On another note Nate and I have been working on a verse for baby Ady. We want just a verse of encouragement and one to represent what we want for our little girl. We think we have decided on Isaiah 40:30-31. I am so excited to teach our little girl about scripture and I am hoping Nate and I can take her to her first "church service" together after she is born ;).
Well, again not much going on here. I had a good doctor's visit with everything is checking out very good. She is measuring exactly what she should be and heartbeat is 150. My next appointment will be in about 2-3 weeks and I will have to take another glucose test, prayers appreciated! Nate is next with his Balough Bundle update!
The Baloughs
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Daddy's Ady Part 2
It took forever for Morgan to finish the registry on Babies-R-Us. There are just so many things a baby needs. We have decided to decorate her room with Lady Bugs! I just love it, my idea. We have already purchased the bedding. Morgan has been buying up all types of clothes that have lady bugs on them.
Afghanistan has not changed much since the last post. The weather here is hot and sandy. I finally got a cool breeze the other day which was so wonderful. I am working hard getting ready for changes here, but continue the best I can to keep Morgan and Ady informed. Well, time to get to bed.
Well, that's about it for this father to be. I hope you are all well and Morgan's up next with her update, which will probably take a couple months.
What's New:
Cravings: Cheddar Rounds from Pal's and Home made potato chips with Lawry's Seasoning Salt.
Clothes: Multicams, and PT's, not much else in Afghanistan
Shoes: Boots and Tennis Shoes, like I said not much else here.
Smells: Fresh washed clothes, which is hard here.
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
A little update!
Well, Nate is right it takes me quite a long time to post! Not much new has happened since our last post. I have been trying my hand at sewing and crafting of onesies lately. I think I am getting the hang of it. I am trying to think of some cute designs for our little Ady. It is so much fun thinking about how she will look in the little things I create.
Pregnancy is amazing!!! I am loving every minute of it. I feel so blessed to have been given this gift to carry our daughter. I find myself talking to her all the time and I love hearing Nate talk to her. He is going to be such an amazing father. I am more eager for him to meet her than me ;). She seems to be moving a little more. The flutters have been picking up. My placenta is located more in the front so the doctor said it might take a little longer to see her movements and really feel her kick. I don't mind waiting ;). My tummy seems to be growing more and more by the day! It is so fun to watch my body change knowing why ;). I'm trying to get better about posting weekly pics. Oreo has def. picked up on a change. She is stuck to me like glue and snuggles way to close at night. I get 1/4 of a queen size bed. I don't know what Nate is going to do when he finally gets home and finds all this competition for his spot. Oh those little furry babies.
I finally got us registered at Babies-r-us. It took forever there are just so many things a baby needs (duh! Morgan) I was just too tired to register anywhere else so I am just telling people if they want to get us something they can use that registry as a place to get ideas and then go to Walmart or Target and get it cheaper!!!! We have decided to decorate her room with Lady Bugs! I just love it, Nate's idea. We have already purchased the bedding. I have been buying up all types of clothes that have lady bugs on them. I need to slow down with the clothes!
Well, that's about it for this mom to be. I hope you are all well and Nate's up next with his update ;).
What's New:
Cravings: Pickles, sandwiches, SPICY food and cake doughnuts.
Weight: Still no gaining
Clothes: I got some Maternity clothes so they should be good for a while. Need to get more dress clothes, I forget how much I need to dress up a little these days!
Hobbies: Onesie crafting ;), Coloring
Shoes: some are getting a little snug!
Smells: Almost got sick off of the smell of Korean chicken the other day ;(. Loving fresh clean scents.
Wedding Rings: Still fit, and are a little loose!
The Baloughs
Pregnancy is amazing!!! I am loving every minute of it. I feel so blessed to have been given this gift to carry our daughter. I find myself talking to her all the time and I love hearing Nate talk to her. He is going to be such an amazing father. I am more eager for him to meet her than me ;). She seems to be moving a little more. The flutters have been picking up. My placenta is located more in the front so the doctor said it might take a little longer to see her movements and really feel her kick. I don't mind waiting ;). My tummy seems to be growing more and more by the day! It is so fun to watch my body change knowing why ;). I'm trying to get better about posting weekly pics. Oreo has def. picked up on a change. She is stuck to me like glue and snuggles way to close at night. I get 1/4 of a queen size bed. I don't know what Nate is going to do when he finally gets home and finds all this competition for his spot. Oh those little furry babies.
I finally got us registered at Babies-r-us. It took forever there are just so many things a baby needs (duh! Morgan) I was just too tired to register anywhere else so I am just telling people if they want to get us something they can use that registry as a place to get ideas and then go to Walmart or Target and get it cheaper!!!! We have decided to decorate her room with Lady Bugs! I just love it, Nate's idea. We have already purchased the bedding. I have been buying up all types of clothes that have lady bugs on them. I need to slow down with the clothes!
Well, that's about it for this mom to be. I hope you are all well and Nate's up next with his update ;).
What's New:
Cravings: Pickles, sandwiches, SPICY food and cake doughnuts.
Weight: Still no gaining
Clothes: I got some Maternity clothes so they should be good for a while. Need to get more dress clothes, I forget how much I need to dress up a little these days!
Hobbies: Onesie crafting ;), Coloring
Shoes: some are getting a little snug!
Smells: Almost got sick off of the smell of Korean chicken the other day ;(. Loving fresh clean scents.
Wedding Rings: Still fit, and are a little loose!
The Baloughs
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Daddy's Ady
So we found out a few days ago that we are having a GIRL!!!!! We are very excited, and cannot wait for the baby to come. We are at 21 weeks which means we are over half way there. I am so proud of my wife and her mother for finding such a cute way to let both of us know at the same time. I am thrilled to have a little girl to watch and take care of. We have decided the way we will clothe and decorate her room. She is going to be our little Ladybug.
Her name:
So Morgan and I knew what we were going to name our first child depending on the sex of the baby. Our daughter's name is Adalynn Brittany Balough, and she will forever be Daddy's Ady. We love this name, and it has a purpose behind it. Adalynn is a name I came up with while Morgan and I were standing outside the Cafeteria at NGU. I saw a purse that was embroidered aDl, and I told Morgan Adalynn would be a cute girls name, at that point the name stuck. Brittany is in memory of Morgan and I's friend from college Brittany Fogg. She was a great friend to both Morgan and I and we will honor her memory with our Daughter's middle name.
Well, that is it for Afghanistan, and next time I blog it will be from Captain Balough as I get promoted 1 July.
Her name:
So Morgan and I knew what we were going to name our first child depending on the sex of the baby. Our daughter's name is Adalynn Brittany Balough, and she will forever be Daddy's Ady. We love this name, and it has a purpose behind it. Adalynn is a name I came up with while Morgan and I were standing outside the Cafeteria at NGU. I saw a purse that was embroidered aDl, and I told Morgan Adalynn would be a cute girls name, at that point the name stuck. Brittany is in memory of Morgan and I's friend from college Brittany Fogg. She was a great friend to both Morgan and I and we will honor her memory with our Daughter's middle name.
Well, that is it for Afghanistan, and next time I blog it will be from Captain Balough as I get promoted 1 July.
Saturday, June 25, 2011
It's a girl!!!
Ok so we finally got the news whether we are having a boy or a girl!!! If you can't tell by the title we are expecting a little girl!!!
How we found out:
My mom and I went to the doctor's and went back to finally get my ultrasound! The baby was very modest and took 45mins. to finally let the nurse get a good picture of her special place, I said I didn't mind the baby being modest if it was a girl and I was right! The nurse told me when to look away so I would see what the baby was and she showed my mom and made sure she knew what it was so she could tell Nathaniel and I. She gave us lots of pictures to take home. She informed me that our baby looked very healthy and had a big heart with a strong heart beat. Since everything looked good she said that we would get another ultrasound....WHAT??? I have to go another 20 wks without seeing my beautiful baby!!! I guess it is a huge blessing though bc that means she is healthy!
We headed home and it was killing me not to know and my mom had a sealed envelope with the picutre of the gender in it ( I though about tackling her to the ground and ripping it our of her hand lol). We finally made it home and I text Nate that we were ready to Skype so we could finally find out what we are having. My mom had purchased a girl and boy set of mittens and booties so once Nate was online and ready we waited and she reached for the pink set!!!! We are having a little girl!!!! We are so excited and looking for to spoiling her.
My reaction:
I was very surprised at first I was really expecting it to be a boy by what everyone was saying and so on. My biggest wish was for a healthy baby so finding out our baby was healthy was the best thing ever. I am growing more and more excited about all the girlie things to come. I know she will have Nathaniel rapped around her little finger! I can't wait to have a little girl to take out for mommy and me days!
My Mom, Nana and I already went shopping and bought way too many clothes!!! I am looking at all of the stuff to buy and it gets so overwhelming. I am so excited to get to go shopping for all of the baby stuff!
What's Happening with Mom:
My family has been in town for a week and we had a blast going around the island doing all sorts of things. I have been keeping busy with entertaining that is all I have basically done.
What's Happening with Dad:
Nate finished up with his first class that he was teaching on Friday. He has enjoyed it very much. Nate will also be promoted on July 1st!!! It will now be Captain Balough!!! I am so proud of him. I will let him tell you what else is going on over the pond!
Updates:
Cravings: Salads with Asian dressing-so good!, honey buns, and potatoes.
Weight: Still no weight gain
Weeks: 20 wks Half way point!!!!
Well that's all from me Nate will post his response next!!! Thank you all for the congrats and well wishes!
The Baloughs
How we found out:
My mom and I went to the doctor's and went back to finally get my ultrasound! The baby was very modest and took 45mins. to finally let the nurse get a good picture of her special place, I said I didn't mind the baby being modest if it was a girl and I was right! The nurse told me when to look away so I would see what the baby was and she showed my mom and made sure she knew what it was so she could tell Nathaniel and I. She gave us lots of pictures to take home. She informed me that our baby looked very healthy and had a big heart with a strong heart beat. Since everything looked good she said that we would get another ultrasound....WHAT??? I have to go another 20 wks without seeing my beautiful baby!!! I guess it is a huge blessing though bc that means she is healthy!
We headed home and it was killing me not to know and my mom had a sealed envelope with the picutre of the gender in it ( I though about tackling her to the ground and ripping it our of her hand lol). We finally made it home and I text Nate that we were ready to Skype so we could finally find out what we are having. My mom had purchased a girl and boy set of mittens and booties so once Nate was online and ready we waited and she reached for the pink set!!!! We are having a little girl!!!! We are so excited and looking for to spoiling her.
My reaction:
I was very surprised at first I was really expecting it to be a boy by what everyone was saying and so on. My biggest wish was for a healthy baby so finding out our baby was healthy was the best thing ever. I am growing more and more excited about all the girlie things to come. I know she will have Nathaniel rapped around her little finger! I can't wait to have a little girl to take out for mommy and me days!
My Mom, Nana and I already went shopping and bought way too many clothes!!! I am looking at all of the stuff to buy and it gets so overwhelming. I am so excited to get to go shopping for all of the baby stuff!
What's Happening with Mom:
My family has been in town for a week and we had a blast going around the island doing all sorts of things. I have been keeping busy with entertaining that is all I have basically done.
What's Happening with Dad:
Nate finished up with his first class that he was teaching on Friday. He has enjoyed it very much. Nate will also be promoted on July 1st!!! It will now be Captain Balough!!! I am so proud of him. I will let him tell you what else is going on over the pond!
Updates:
Cravings: Salads with Asian dressing-so good!, honey buns, and potatoes.
Weight: Still no weight gain
Weeks: 20 wks Half way point!!!!
Well that's all from me Nate will post his response next!!! Thank you all for the congrats and well wishes!
The Baloughs
Sunday, June 19, 2011
Dad in Afghanistan Part 2
Well, We have made it almost twenty weeks which means we find out whether our baby is a boy or girl. We are super excited and cannot wait till later this week. I have been able to see the progress of our baby as my wonderful wife updates me as often as she can about the happenings in Hawaii. Afghanistan is HOT, and makes me miss the wonderful Hawaii weather every day. I hope every day that is does not break 110 degrees, but every day at lunch I get disappointed as the temperature is averaging 112 degrees at lunch time. I did not know till I got to Afghanistan that Hot breezes existed, and 112 degrees breezing are not fun. Happy Father's Day to all the Fathers out there especially my brother who became a Father Friday when his daughter (my niece) was born. Morgan has been doing wonders in Hawaii with the baby and FRG. I hear daily here that we are blessed with a great FRG leader. The second half of June has and will be a wonderful ending of a month. We find out whether the baby is a boy or a girl, and I got my promotion orders for Captain. I get promoted on 1 July and will be blessed to have the Brigade Commander pin on my rank. I am getting the ability to hone my math and reading skills as I am teaching a FAST class to the Soldiers here. The class helps the Soldiers increase their GT score which will help them further their careers. Well, that is pretty much it for Afghanistan, Morgan is up next which means you will probably not get another post for a month and a half or so.
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
16wks Update!
Well Everyone, I know it has been a while since our last post, which is my fault since it's my turn to post.
There is not too much to update on at this point. I am 16wks and 4 days and starting to show. I had a doctor's appointment today and the Dr. said I was doing great. The baby's heartbeat was 150 and super strong! At first I thought it was mine ;). I am measuring spot on as well. I had to give blood to run a couple of test for next time. The ladies at the Lab are def. getting to know me. They know how hard it is to get a vein in my arm so they just know to go for my hand. They are a hoot! We find out at our next appointment the sex of the baby!!!! I am super excited so then I can start buying up a storm! My amazing friends are trying to organize a baby shower while my Mom and Nana are here so they will be able to participate (so thoughtful).
What's up with Mom?:
Well, I am at meetings all the time these days and making sure to keep busy. I am getting everything ready for my family to come in 2wks ;). I can only do so much at a time so I am taking it room by room. I am so excited to see my family it's almost been a year! I am going to the Army Birthday Ball on June 10th, which should be a lot of fun! That's about it for me.
What's up with Dad?:
Well, Nathaniel has been quite busy over in Afghanistan and if his regular job wasn't enough my amazing hubby has decided to become a teacher ;). He has accepted a position to teach the soldiers Math and English for them to prep to take the military exams. He is basically having a part time job while deployed. This is just another way God has shown Himself to me. God is providing financially for us and that was one thing Nate and I prayed for when we wanted to start having a family that we would be able to provide for the baby in every way including finances.
I am just so blessed to have such an amazing husband that wants to expand his horizons even while already having so much responsibility. I am so amazed at how close I feel to him even though thousands of miles seperate us. I can't wait for him to come home in a couple of months and be with his baby ;). He is going to be the best father in the whole world. I wasn't blessed with having a father in my life and when I prayed for a husband growing up I prayed so hard for a man that could be an amazing father to our children. God answered my prayers and MORE! I know that my children will have so much love and fun just being themselves with a Dad that is so unique and originial and will let our children grow up knowing that it is ok to be SILLY!!! I know with Nate by my side every scary, sad and crazy moment will end with smiles and laughter and for that I am so greatful!
Ok, enough about how awesome my hubs is bc I could go on and on. Nate and I are celebrating 3 years in the Army family! In August Nate is officially picked up for Captain!!! He has worked so hard and it's great to see him get promoted.
What's New:
Cravings: Chinese food, McDonald's Frappe's (don't drink too many), and sweets (which I am normally not that into)
Clothing: It's getting tighter so I am in def. need to go on a shopping spree.
Activities: It's getting harder to do some daily chores because of getting tired and sore. Grocery shopping takes longer and unloading the car takes longer ;).
Sleeping: Naps are my new best friends ;).
Doggies: The dogs can def. tell somethings up they snuggle so close that I have about 1ft. of a queen bed! They are super cute ;).
Well, that's it for now Nate will be updating soon. We hope you are all doing amazing!
The Baloughs
There is not too much to update on at this point. I am 16wks and 4 days and starting to show. I had a doctor's appointment today and the Dr. said I was doing great. The baby's heartbeat was 150 and super strong! At first I thought it was mine ;). I am measuring spot on as well. I had to give blood to run a couple of test for next time. The ladies at the Lab are def. getting to know me. They know how hard it is to get a vein in my arm so they just know to go for my hand. They are a hoot! We find out at our next appointment the sex of the baby!!!! I am super excited so then I can start buying up a storm! My amazing friends are trying to organize a baby shower while my Mom and Nana are here so they will be able to participate (so thoughtful).
What's up with Mom?:
Well, I am at meetings all the time these days and making sure to keep busy. I am getting everything ready for my family to come in 2wks ;). I can only do so much at a time so I am taking it room by room. I am so excited to see my family it's almost been a year! I am going to the Army Birthday Ball on June 10th, which should be a lot of fun! That's about it for me.
What's up with Dad?:
Well, Nathaniel has been quite busy over in Afghanistan and if his regular job wasn't enough my amazing hubby has decided to become a teacher ;). He has accepted a position to teach the soldiers Math and English for them to prep to take the military exams. He is basically having a part time job while deployed. This is just another way God has shown Himself to me. God is providing financially for us and that was one thing Nate and I prayed for when we wanted to start having a family that we would be able to provide for the baby in every way including finances.
I am just so blessed to have such an amazing husband that wants to expand his horizons even while already having so much responsibility. I am so amazed at how close I feel to him even though thousands of miles seperate us. I can't wait for him to come home in a couple of months and be with his baby ;). He is going to be the best father in the whole world. I wasn't blessed with having a father in my life and when I prayed for a husband growing up I prayed so hard for a man that could be an amazing father to our children. God answered my prayers and MORE! I know that my children will have so much love and fun just being themselves with a Dad that is so unique and originial and will let our children grow up knowing that it is ok to be SILLY!!! I know with Nate by my side every scary, sad and crazy moment will end with smiles and laughter and for that I am so greatful!
Ok, enough about how awesome my hubs is bc I could go on and on. Nate and I are celebrating 3 years in the Army family! In August Nate is officially picked up for Captain!!! He has worked so hard and it's great to see him get promoted.
What's New:
Cravings: Chinese food, McDonald's Frappe's (don't drink too many), and sweets (which I am normally not that into)
Clothing: It's getting tighter so I am in def. need to go on a shopping spree.
Activities: It's getting harder to do some daily chores because of getting tired and sore. Grocery shopping takes longer and unloading the car takes longer ;).
Sleeping: Naps are my new best friends ;).
Doggies: The dogs can def. tell somethings up they snuggle so close that I have about 1ft. of a queen bed! They are super cute ;).
Well, that's it for now Nate will be updating soon. We hope you are all doing amazing!
The Baloughs
Saturday, May 14, 2011
Dad in Afghanistan
So everything about the way I found out is true, she took the test came downstairs and I just knew she was preggers, because of the immanent glow coming from her face. She makes me so happy about how excited she is about being a mom. I am very excited about being a father.
So we found out when I was home before I left for Afghanistan, and both my mom and dad visited us and neither knew about it. It was hard not tell anyone, because it is such a joyous occasion. We wanted to wait till around Mother's Day, because we figured it would be a good present for our moms to find out then. I have wanted to tell people so bad, but I had to resist the temptation to tell people about the baby.
So, what is it like to be deployed while my wife is pregnant? It is bittersweet. I am so proud of Morgan and everything she has been able to do with the FRG, FSC, and still caring for a little baby in her belly. I wish I could be home and be at all of her appointments, ultrasounds, and baby classes, but I know I will be home for the next baby when the time comes around. The sweet part of being deployed is that I get to see the strength of my wife that I always told her she had with caring for the house, me, the puppies, and a baby. She does so many things and sacrifices so much to take care of the baby, and I am so proud of her. I am happy that while I am deployed that we have great friends that help her out and will be there in a snap to assist her if she needs it. She is so brave and wonderful I could not imagine bringing a new life into the world without Morgan. i cannot wait to be able to come home and help her with whatever she needs so she can kick back and relax with the baby.
THE ULTRASOUND LETTER:
I got a card from Morgan and she sent me a picture of the ultrasound. I was so happy to get it that I carry it with me everywhere I go. (except the shower) I would walk up to people and say "I got a card from Morgan" and they would be disinterested because their mail had not showed up yet. Then I would show the picture and they would shriek and get so excited and say how happy they were and congratulations. I am so excited about finding out what the baby is going to be, and June 23th cannot come fast enough.
The most asked question:
Do you want a boy or a girl? My answer: A boy
So we found out when I was home before I left for Afghanistan, and both my mom and dad visited us and neither knew about it. It was hard not tell anyone, because it is such a joyous occasion. We wanted to wait till around Mother's Day, because we figured it would be a good present for our moms to find out then. I have wanted to tell people so bad, but I had to resist the temptation to tell people about the baby.
So, what is it like to be deployed while my wife is pregnant? It is bittersweet. I am so proud of Morgan and everything she has been able to do with the FRG, FSC, and still caring for a little baby in her belly. I wish I could be home and be at all of her appointments, ultrasounds, and baby classes, but I know I will be home for the next baby when the time comes around. The sweet part of being deployed is that I get to see the strength of my wife that I always told her she had with caring for the house, me, the puppies, and a baby. She does so many things and sacrifices so much to take care of the baby, and I am so proud of her. I am happy that while I am deployed that we have great friends that help her out and will be there in a snap to assist her if she needs it. She is so brave and wonderful I could not imagine bringing a new life into the world without Morgan. i cannot wait to be able to come home and help her with whatever she needs so she can kick back and relax with the baby.
THE ULTRASOUND LETTER:
I got a card from Morgan and she sent me a picture of the ultrasound. I was so happy to get it that I carry it with me everywhere I go. (except the shower) I would walk up to people and say "I got a card from Morgan" and they would be disinterested because their mail had not showed up yet. Then I would show the picture and they would shriek and get so excited and say how happy they were and congratulations. I am so excited about finding out what the baby is going to be, and June 23th cannot come fast enough.
The most asked question:
Do you want a boy or a girl? My answer: A boy
Sunday, May 8, 2011
Our Story...
Our Story:
Well, if you don't know by now, we are expecting our first child in November. We found out in March that we are expecting. We thought and prayed very hard about starting a family and we decided that Hawaii would be the perfect place to have a baby. God's timing is always perfect and after some bumps in the road we were finally able to surrender to what His will for our lives was and not our plan for when to have a baby.
Nate is currently deployed to Afghanistan, but I try to include him in every visit I have to the doctor. We are planning on finding out the sex of the baby on June 23rd. My mom will be here visiting so she is going to find out the sex of the baby and let Nate and I know when we are on the phone together.
We have been busting out to tell people, Nate especially. We decided that we wanted to be through our first trimester before spilling the beans. We just finished telling our families Saturday.
How Nate found out:
I tried to keep it a secret so bad. I snuck off and bought a test and snuck it back into the house ( a hard task to do with both Nate and his mom around). I secretly took the test and was so excited to see it was positive! I had the cutest thing planned and I was going to tell him when we went on our retreat before he left. All I did was walk down the stairs and he took one look and me and said, "You're pregnant are you?" What? How could he possible know? I was so careful. He said it was because I was beaming from ear to ear so there went my very cute and awesome plan, boo! Luckily his mom was outside so she didn't hear our conversation. It was all an event to look back and laugh about. Gosh that boy knows me too well!
How our families found out:
I of course can't keep ANYTHING from my mom so I had word vomit quite quickly and told her. I then told Nate's mom over the phone a week or so later. We did really well with waiting to tell the rest of the family. Nate was able to Skype with his Dad, stepmom and sister and tell them the news about a week ago. He was also able to talk to his brother and tell him the news. He finished telling his grandparents on Saturday. I love that even being so far away, that Nate was able to be included in the notificaiton process (that would have been a lot of phone calls for just me to make). I finished telling my Nana Saturday and she told the rest of the family today. They were all very excited!!! My mom will be called Meme, Nate's mom will be called YaYa and Nate's Dad just wants to be called Grandpa.
My First Mother's Day:
My first Mother's Day was amazing!!! I know I am not yet a "real" mom, but I am taking care of a child right now it just happens to still be in my body ;). I recieved lots of Mother's Day wishes. Nate sent me flowers! He also sent me (and I asked Mrs Shelia to come along since I had no idea where I was going) on a goose chase with only an address to go off of to get my present in downtown Honolulu. I finally had to tell him that it was called "Luxury Row" and there were like 10 stores at that address so he finally told me to go to Tiffany's ;) to pick it up. It is a gorgeous charm that says "Mom" on it and it was waiting for me in that beautful teal box. He did good! Now I just have to find something equally as awesome for him on Father's Day! My mom sent me a nice package with lots of cute things. I was able to take to a lot of friends and family today, which was the best part of today ;). My dogs woke me up early and then we had snuggle time for about an hour. They are so spoiled! All in all, it was an amazing day!
Sweet Stories:
The first story I want to tell is of the extreme kindness of my friends Chessa Foster and Laura Schlaf. There is a neighborhood cat that likes to call my rose bed her potty and now that she has had kittens they use the it as a potty too. I, being pregant, can't handle cat poopie so these AMAZING ladies took it upon themselves to clean out my entire flower beds of all the soiled mulch. They said they didn't want me breathing in that nasty stuff! How amazing are these ladies. It definitly blessed my heart that I have such amazing people around me that would do such nice things to help me out! You ladies Rock!!!
The second story is to brag on a young man named Andrew Scott. I had to go to the doctor bc I had a little scare with the pregnancy and asked Shelia Scott (his mom) to come with me to the doctor's. She had to call Andrew and tell him she might have to pick him up (from his friend's house) if I had to go to the doctor. Well, this amazing kid, at 15 yrs old, went to his friend and asked if he and his parents could pray for me and my safety. Talk about awesomeness!!! Needless to say I went to the doctor and everything checked out fine. What a great young man! That meant so much me ;).
One last story of encouragement came from my Mother in Law. She texted me one day and was telling me that I was going to have a little boy! I, of course being curious, called her up and asked why she was so certain I was having a boy. She then told me about a dream she had. Her husband (Nate's stepfather, who is recently deceased) appeared to her in a dream and told her, "I am watching!" She asked him over and over what he was watching and he finally said , "West, I am watching West," He then made the gesture of swinging his arms like he was holding a baby. Well, as most of you know if we have a son we want to call him WESTin. He then proceeded to tell Nate's mom that he again was watching out for West. This just warms my heart knowing that Tim is watching over our baby. What a great story to tell if we have a boy!
(I just had to tell these stories that have meant so much to me! There are so many more!)
Frequently asked Questions:
When are you due? 11/11/11 funny right!
How far along are you? We are 13 weeks and 2days
How are you and Nate doing with the seperation during pregnancy? We are doing good, I make sure he is included in all of my visits. We thougth long and prayed a lot over having a baby during deployment and it was all God's timing.
What is your biggest pregnancy craving? Chick-fil-la, Panera Bread, and a deli place back home called Schlotzsky's Deli and we have NONE of those here AHAHAHH
Have you had morning sickness? Well, I am kinda out of the first trimester, but YES and I love every minute of it bc it reminds me of the blessing I am carrying ;).
What are you having? We should find out in June and we don't really care what we have!
Who was the first person you told? Besides Nate, probably my mom or one of my friends/neighbors for emergency purposes.
Are you showing yet, if so for how long? Not really, but I can see a difference and feel a difference.
Have you had a sonogram yet? Yes, but only bc I had to get a quick check up for a scare we had. Here in Hawaii you normally don't get one til 20wks so then we will have LOTS to show people!
What has been your worst part of being pregnant so far? I have really enjoyed all of it, I guess having to wait to tell people ;)! and not being able to eat my food cravings. OH and being on Lent for 46 Days and not eating any fried food LOL.
What is your favorite part of being pregnant? Everything!!! Getting to tell people has been fun!
Have you got names picked out yet? Yep!
How much have you gained if any? I have actually lost about 14lbs. the sickness really took its toll.
What is the oddest thing you have experienced so far? Trying to sleep on my side!
How did the baby's father react when he found out? He was beyond excited ;)!
Did you do anything special to tell the daddy, grandparents, ect.? We had a lot of cute things planned and then we just kinda spilled the beans LOL.
Well, that is about all for now! I am going to try to update everyone on here about our journey. Thank you to everyone for your Congrats and well wishes. We espcecially want to thank everyone who has offered to help me move things or carrying things or just volunteer for anything that I might need. We are truly blessed to have such amazing family and friends! Aloha!
Nathaniel and Morgan
Well, if you don't know by now, we are expecting our first child in November. We found out in March that we are expecting. We thought and prayed very hard about starting a family and we decided that Hawaii would be the perfect place to have a baby. God's timing is always perfect and after some bumps in the road we were finally able to surrender to what His will for our lives was and not our plan for when to have a baby.
Nate is currently deployed to Afghanistan, but I try to include him in every visit I have to the doctor. We are planning on finding out the sex of the baby on June 23rd. My mom will be here visiting so she is going to find out the sex of the baby and let Nate and I know when we are on the phone together.
We have been busting out to tell people, Nate especially. We decided that we wanted to be through our first trimester before spilling the beans. We just finished telling our families Saturday.
How Nate found out:
I tried to keep it a secret so bad. I snuck off and bought a test and snuck it back into the house ( a hard task to do with both Nate and his mom around). I secretly took the test and was so excited to see it was positive! I had the cutest thing planned and I was going to tell him when we went on our retreat before he left. All I did was walk down the stairs and he took one look and me and said, "You're pregnant are you?" What? How could he possible know? I was so careful. He said it was because I was beaming from ear to ear so there went my very cute and awesome plan, boo! Luckily his mom was outside so she didn't hear our conversation. It was all an event to look back and laugh about. Gosh that boy knows me too well!
How our families found out:
I of course can't keep ANYTHING from my mom so I had word vomit quite quickly and told her. I then told Nate's mom over the phone a week or so later. We did really well with waiting to tell the rest of the family. Nate was able to Skype with his Dad, stepmom and sister and tell them the news about a week ago. He was also able to talk to his brother and tell him the news. He finished telling his grandparents on Saturday. I love that even being so far away, that Nate was able to be included in the notificaiton process (that would have been a lot of phone calls for just me to make). I finished telling my Nana Saturday and she told the rest of the family today. They were all very excited!!! My mom will be called Meme, Nate's mom will be called YaYa and Nate's Dad just wants to be called Grandpa.
My First Mother's Day:
My first Mother's Day was amazing!!! I know I am not yet a "real" mom, but I am taking care of a child right now it just happens to still be in my body ;). I recieved lots of Mother's Day wishes. Nate sent me flowers! He also sent me (and I asked Mrs Shelia to come along since I had no idea where I was going) on a goose chase with only an address to go off of to get my present in downtown Honolulu. I finally had to tell him that it was called "Luxury Row" and there were like 10 stores at that address so he finally told me to go to Tiffany's ;) to pick it up. It is a gorgeous charm that says "Mom" on it and it was waiting for me in that beautful teal box. He did good! Now I just have to find something equally as awesome for him on Father's Day! My mom sent me a nice package with lots of cute things. I was able to take to a lot of friends and family today, which was the best part of today ;). My dogs woke me up early and then we had snuggle time for about an hour. They are so spoiled! All in all, it was an amazing day!
My flowers from Nate, My mom sent Clemson baby booties and bibs ;), a pillow and a Tervis Tumbler that had "Mom" and my name on it!
My beautiful charm that says "Mom"! He did good I will def. have to step up my game for Father's Day!
Sweet Stories:
The first story I want to tell is of the extreme kindness of my friends Chessa Foster and Laura Schlaf. There is a neighborhood cat that likes to call my rose bed her potty and now that she has had kittens they use the it as a potty too. I, being pregant, can't handle cat poopie so these AMAZING ladies took it upon themselves to clean out my entire flower beds of all the soiled mulch. They said they didn't want me breathing in that nasty stuff! How amazing are these ladies. It definitly blessed my heart that I have such amazing people around me that would do such nice things to help me out! You ladies Rock!!!
The second story is to brag on a young man named Andrew Scott. I had to go to the doctor bc I had a little scare with the pregnancy and asked Shelia Scott (his mom) to come with me to the doctor's. She had to call Andrew and tell him she might have to pick him up (from his friend's house) if I had to go to the doctor. Well, this amazing kid, at 15 yrs old, went to his friend and asked if he and his parents could pray for me and my safety. Talk about awesomeness!!! Needless to say I went to the doctor and everything checked out fine. What a great young man! That meant so much me ;).
One last story of encouragement came from my Mother in Law. She texted me one day and was telling me that I was going to have a little boy! I, of course being curious, called her up and asked why she was so certain I was having a boy. She then told me about a dream she had. Her husband (Nate's stepfather, who is recently deceased) appeared to her in a dream and told her, "I am watching!" She asked him over and over what he was watching and he finally said , "West, I am watching West," He then made the gesture of swinging his arms like he was holding a baby. Well, as most of you know if we have a son we want to call him WESTin. He then proceeded to tell Nate's mom that he again was watching out for West. This just warms my heart knowing that Tim is watching over our baby. What a great story to tell if we have a boy!
(I just had to tell these stories that have meant so much to me! There are so many more!)
Frequently asked Questions:
When are you due? 11/11/11 funny right!
How far along are you? We are 13 weeks and 2days
How are you and Nate doing with the seperation during pregnancy? We are doing good, I make sure he is included in all of my visits. We thougth long and prayed a lot over having a baby during deployment and it was all God's timing.
What is your biggest pregnancy craving? Chick-fil-la, Panera Bread, and a deli place back home called Schlotzsky's Deli and we have NONE of those here AHAHAHH
Have you had morning sickness? Well, I am kinda out of the first trimester, but YES and I love every minute of it bc it reminds me of the blessing I am carrying ;).
What are you having? We should find out in June and we don't really care what we have!
Who was the first person you told? Besides Nate, probably my mom or one of my friends/neighbors for emergency purposes.
Are you showing yet, if so for how long? Not really, but I can see a difference and feel a difference.
Have you had a sonogram yet? Yes, but only bc I had to get a quick check up for a scare we had. Here in Hawaii you normally don't get one til 20wks so then we will have LOTS to show people!
What has been your worst part of being pregnant so far? I have really enjoyed all of it, I guess having to wait to tell people ;)! and not being able to eat my food cravings. OH and being on Lent for 46 Days and not eating any fried food LOL.
What is your favorite part of being pregnant? Everything!!! Getting to tell people has been fun!
Have you got names picked out yet? Yep!
How much have you gained if any? I have actually lost about 14lbs. the sickness really took its toll.
What is the oddest thing you have experienced so far? Trying to sleep on my side!
How did the baby's father react when he found out? He was beyond excited ;)!
Did you do anything special to tell the daddy, grandparents, ect.? We had a lot of cute things planned and then we just kinda spilled the beans LOL.
Well, that is about all for now! I am going to try to update everyone on here about our journey. Thank you to everyone for your Congrats and well wishes. We espcecially want to thank everyone who has offered to help me move things or carrying things or just volunteer for anything that I might need. We are truly blessed to have such amazing family and friends! Aloha!
Nathaniel and Morgan
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