Turkey Recap!

Today the house feels empty and quiet as Reese takes her  morning nap, and I am still reminiscing about Thanksgiving festivities.

I looked forward to it this year the way I look forward to vacations- everyone in my family came to our house and that gave me lots of prep work the days leading up to their arrival {and I loved it! Baking is one of my favorite things!}

I made the usual staples a few days ahead- Chex mix, sausage balls and homeade rolls as well as a breakfast casserole and banana bread. Tuesday was a low point; Dillon woke up sick and that meant he couldn't watch Reese while I cooked, which had been my plan so I might have been a little cranky with him when he sweetly asked me to run buy him some saltines and 7-up. In the end, all the foods were cooked and his fever only lasted the one day.

My parents and sisters arrived Wednesday afternoon- it was especially exciting because Katie and Mollie hadn't seen Reese in 3 months. We spent the evening enjoying Chili while everyone fought over who got to play with the baby.

Thursday came and we continued with some of our favorite Mathis traditions- the boys fried a turkey while the women slaved in the kitchen. We decorated our table with pinecones from the tree out front and I dressed Reese up in a precious Turkey onesie made by my sweet friend Emily. After enjoying the  delicious meal we retired to the living room and, after much pleading from Katie, we all took turns reading aloud 'The Gift of the Magi'.

That night my parents watched Reese so we could go see 'Breaking Dawn 2'- which we all agreed was better than we had anticipated. I felt a little bad that my parents wouldn't be able to go to the movies and gave them a couple of options- they could keep Reese up and play with her after we left and try to put her to bed themselves and run the risk of her screaming or, I could nurse her and put to her sleep as part of her usual routine before we left. My dad said he chose the option that didn't involve a screaming baby.

Friday Mollie requested to do a little Black Friday shopping at some of the local boutiques downtown which was another fun tradition to continue {we historically shop on main street in Fredricksburg on Black Friday}. Dillon stayed home and worked on his sermon while Reese slept, but the rest of us enjoyed partaking in the madness. For lunch we all went to El Sabor  for some TexMex, followed by afternoon siestas for all {except for Katie who retreated to the basement for some Bar Method exercising}.  That afternoon a few of us ventured to Cabellas and that night we munched on leftovers and Mollie's pumpkin cookies.

Saturday we woke up and got beautified for Christmas pictures. It was perhaps one of the better Mathis photo taking experiences we have had, I think in part because Reese added an element of urgency as she is a ticking time bomb and so everyone snapped into position. For lunch we dined at Buffalo Wild Wings and the grandparents took turns walking around with Reese since she was a little fussy.

That afternoon we did a token tourist activity and visited Mount Rushmore. I hadn't been in 12 years so it was even exciting for me- I still can't believe this is where we live! That night my parents cooked steaks, baked potatoes and salad. Afterwards we played '20 questions' - Mama was Michelle Obama, Dillon was Jesus and Daddy was Mama. Then we watched 'Country Strong' in keeping with the randomness of the night.

Sunday morning began with a heavy snowfall, Dillon preached at church and we all got to worship together. We had lunch at Quedoba before they left for the airport.

It was a fabulous time. I am so thankful that my family was so helpful with dishes, cooking and cleanup, Reese did SO well and actually maintained her routine which made her happy most of the time. We made lots of memories and avoided family drama that can sometimes accompany the holidays. I am looking forward to Christmas already!

South Dakota Observations

A simple place. Especially contrasted with Dallas, Texas. So far my introduction to this new land has come softly and warmly.

Some things are different but good. I like how every single person we have had into our home takes their shoes off at the door- It was puzzling at first but I think it is a sign of respect, and shows that they are making themselves comfortable- Or maybe it is a habit that started in the winter so as not to track in the elements. Either way, Dillon and I have learned to do this now when we visit others.

The hospitality has been unmatched. Perhaps it has more to do with living in a smaller city than it does a different state, but we have been surprised to find that here in Rapid City, there are no cliques and people who have lived here their whole lives are still eager to make new friends. One thing we have not  been since moving is lonely. 

Dillon and I have both felt a sense physical separation from the larger happenings in the country. It's hard to describe, but there is a bit of disconnect from current trends. People don't really talk about the latest movies or take a huge stance on issues. Maybe I'm just seeing things through my Texas lense, so it seems unusual to not hear constant political chatter or feel the need to buy the latest gadget or fashion item. We have access to these things, there is just less pressure to partake in them.

Outside is where it's at! On the weekends everyone gets out. We see bikers, roller bladers, runners, walkers- young, old- filling all the parks in town and hiking through trails. It feels a bit like I imagine Denver to be, on a smaller scale.

Other funny differences- one day I was driving around town, trying to find the good radio stations to program into our car, when I came upon one station playing Native American tribal chants. And recently in town was the annual PowWow where thousands of Natives partake in the traditional dance and song- we are hoping to go see it next year.

As I am writing this there is a fierce Chinook wind blowing and whistling about 70 miles/hr and the pine trees out the window are swaying. I still can't believe we live here, but I'm thanking God for this adventure.

Life with a 4 month old

For the purpose of someday looking back and remembering what my days looked like...

Reese got up at 2 a.m last night, ate a small bit, and {only} cried til 2:45. This is actually a small victory.

She was fussy this morning so we took a blanket out front to enjoy the cool Fall morning on the lawn. I was feeling generous so I allowed Penny to come too, unleashed. A few seconds after we got settled, I looked over just in time to see Penny ROLLING in POOP.

Speaking of- I got pooped on this afternoon. Sometimes it happens if Reese is sitting a certain way in my lap.

Our latest solution to Reese's nightly fussiness is going on a LONG walk right up until bedtime. She usually goes down around 7, so we typically leave for the walk at 6.  She loves it and it does all of us good to get out of the house together. Not sure what we are going to do come winter- just bundle up I guess!

It is so sad to pack away Reese's 3 mo. clothes- but equally exciting to get out all the cute 6 mo. outfits she received or that I bought back in Dallas at Salvation Army before she was born.

Baking has become my stress-reliever. The first 2 months after Reese was born I gave up sugar, but the last month I have gone crazy - chocolate chip, and lemon sugar cookies... Muffins and yellow cakes and apple dumplings. Puppy chow and cinnamon rolls. Just to name a few of my delectable indulgences.

I think I can...

It's time to put on my big-girl panties. I know, I know- that phrase is tacky and over-used but today I am embracing it.

Sometimes I am my own worst enemy. I am just now realizing how true this has been in recent weeks in regards to my parenting. And how it will probably be a life-long battle, as long as I am a mother.

Since the day I found out I was pregnant with Reese I have been a sponge, soaking up any and all information on all things baby related. Really, most moms are like this and I am not alone. We try to be informed and make wise decisions. The blessing and curse of my generation is our easy access to the internet- loads of material on every topic have entered my mind and been filed away.

This is where things can turn sour. When these opinions and suggestions and theories become more important than what I know as Reese's mom to be true. Why on earth should I buy what someone else is selling? Has God not equipped me with instincts and discernment? Should I feel guilty because we do things differently? 

I DO welcome advice, and I seek it often. But I must stop comparing. I must stop second guessing myself in EVERY situation and just accept the fact that I will make mistakes but it will be okay because I will learn from them!

Advice is only helpful when it applies to your situation, to your child. It is up to me to recognize when certain things just arent going to work for us even if it worked for someone else. These differences are ok!

It is my honor to raise and care for Reese and it is my responsibility to nurture her specific needs as only I can. Her dad and I together.

I Never Thought....

That I would be one of those moms who had anxiety about leaving her child in the nursery.

That I would enjoy rocking with my little one in the glider for hours on end.

That I would feel so fiercely about protecting her morning nap times.

That I would still be breastfeeding.

That I would be so sad to move my daughter to her own room at nighttime.

That I would feel so attuned to her needs, often sensing them before she expresses them.


I will admit that I was quick to judge others forms of parenting. Since having Reese I have eaten my words many times. I have had to let go of my pride. I am not as tough as I thought I would be. I am not as productive as I wish I were. I am constantly analyzing my choices, because they will have a lasting, even eternal impact in the precious life of my daughter. Michelle Obama said something in her speech last night that I think applies to many of us in whatever stage we are in (quote changed to illustrate my point) along these lines- "Being a mom does not change who you are, no it reveals who you are."

Oh how I love that little girl!

Randomness

The last month has been a mix of low key days around the house and weekend adventures. I am loving the balance of staying home with little Reese while knowing that come Friday, our family will get out and explore something new. I love spending time with this sweet lady!

Friday we headed out to have dinner at Palmer Gulch with the Jacobs. We decided not to camp out but after seeing the grounds, we will definately have to go back when Reese is older... I don't mind camping for a night or two and know that camping is where the good memories are made!

Saturday we went to Bear Country USA- a drive through safari outside of town. We did see bears, and mountain lions, wolves, big horn sheep- I held Reese in  my lap and by the end of the drive she had fallen asleep. Then we ate at Olive Garden which was so comforting to me! Their salad and breadsticks are the same across the country and there is something soothing about that haha.

I am reading 'The Middle Place' right now and it is one of those books that fills your mind throughout the day. I love when a book is like that, it makes you think in new ways or consider things afresh- I firmly believe that life is more enjoyable when you are in the midst of a good read.

We finally pieced Reese's room together. I wanted it to have a slightly magical feel, some kind of special component. While there are a few touches still left to add, I think we achieved the look I wanted. It is a nice place to rock Reese during those quiet moments during the day when we both need a little bit of cheer and coziness.

Adjusting

When I compare my life now to what it was just over 3 months ago SO much has changed that it is almost surprising that I haven't had a mental breakdown! I guess I shouldn't speak too soon, since the dust still isn't quite settled!

Dillon graduated on May 20th (also our 6 year anniversary) and then, in an act of God's goodness, he was able to stay home with me and Reese until we moved on July 19th. Those few weeks will forever be treasured in my heart, as our little family of 3 bonded. I always feared that after having a baby I might be a little depressed but because I had help for the first 10 weeks of Reese's life, I was able to slowly slip into fulltime motherhood with ease and joy!

So now I stay at home with baby Reese all day. I am still figuring out what works best for us as far as chores and outings, since it would be easy for me to stay in pj's all day and watch tv; a to-do list is essential for my productivity! I am ready to get back in the kitchen and cant wait to meeting new friends. There is just alot to look forward to these days, now that boxes are unpacked and 'real life' begins.

This past weekend my family came to town and it was Wonderful!! We had a few adventures and balanced it with plenty of time at home with Reese. It is hard to believe we live just minutes from such beauty.

The Great Adventure

Historically, Dillon and I make our major life changes in chunks. We got married, started new jobs, and moved all within a few months of each other {6+ years ago that is}- and so it is fitting for us that this summer brought another wave of multiple changes. New baby, new jobs, new home {disclaimer: Texas will always and forever be home no matter where we live...Texas forever!}

Reese is approaching 3 months and she is the most joyful baby we could have asked for. That is the word that I keep coming back to when I think of her little personality. Each and every morning is started with a huge grin on her face and rarely a cry. She was smiling "socially" {this is what the books call a real smile, as opposed to a gas smile} at 5 weeks which is apparently quite early. She has just started giggling and it is the sweetest sound. She loves to talk and kick her feet when she is happy. Her favorite things are bath time, driving, laying on her back or going on walks. Oh and of course, eating.

We now live in Rapid City, South Dakota. Oddly enough, I think this move has been the smoothest transition of any we have made in our marriage. We had time to let the idea (of moving) sink in for a while, so by the time the move came, all seemed to fall right into place and our hearts were ready for an adventure. Goodbyes are always sad, but I feel that the friendships we established in Dallas will be lasting regardless of the distance. We are sad to be so far from family and that is the one downside, but again, we feel that distance is not going to keep us from those relationships that we cherish so much. Dillon has already been super busy at his new job at Westminster Presbyterian and our home is coming together quickly. Outside our window we can see pine trees on a hill and the summer evenings are so nice and cool.

I t is my sincere hope that we begin this next chapter well... Christ has gone before us to pave our way and we desire to walk into this journey with our eyes focused on that which matters- the excitement of a new home, a beautiful place to explore- they are not eternal and I pray to remember that daily! As I was waiting at the airport with Reese before we boarded for South Dakota, a song came to me that seemed ever so appropriate for our situation...

Saddle up your horses  

We've got a trail to blaze 

Through the wild blue yonder 

 Of God's amazing grace
Let's follow our Leader  

Into the glorious unknown 

This is a life like no other  

This is the great adventure!

Snippets

Birth Story

Monday April 30^th was my first day off of work. At our 39 week appointment with Dr. Littrell that day she told me that my cervix was still high up, and guessed I wouldn’t deliver until the following week. That night I had some odd contractions that were very painful but they eventually dissipated. Dillon and I both were fairly convinced that our doctors estimation was correct, and began telling family and friends that Reese would likely go past her due date of May 5^th.

I woke up on the morning of Wednesday May 2^nd having mild contractions. Dillon went to his dentist appointment and I got ready for the day and went off to have lunch with my cousin Holly. The contractions weren’t strong enough to bother me, and they were sporadic- coming every 45 minutes to hour and a half. I talked on the phone to my parents a couple of times during the day and my mom made the decision to drive up just so she could be in town to help out, even though we told her we didn’t think this was the real labor.

My mom arrived in town around 7 pm. We decided to go out to eat at Flying Fish by our house. On the way, or shortly after arriving, my contractions really picked up. We had been using the contraction app all day, and Dillon continued to monitor the length and duration during our dinner. He started to get anxious when we observed that they were about 5 minutes apart and lasting near 1 minute. We quickly scarfed down our food (my last meal was spicy shrimp tacos) and went back to the house to decide what to do.

We weren’t at the house very long before both Dillon and my mom said we needed to head to the hospital. I didn’t need much convincing, as my pain level was increasing quite a bit. The drive to the hospital was exciting. There wasn’t any traffic and the sparkling Dallas skyline grew larger and larger as we headed downtown on Central Expressway towards Baylor hospital. Once there, my nurse Lauren checked me at about 9pm and said I was only 3 cm dilated- which came as a shock to me since the pain was pretty bad at that point. She advised me to walk around for an hour to see if I could progress a little more. So I changed into my gown and we walked around the labor floor- a fun surprise was when Justin arrived and walked around with us. An hour later I was 4cm and the doctor on call said to go ahead and admit me.

I called my mom to let her know (she was back at our house dog sitting), and told her she could come to the hospital if she wanted. She told us that Penny had been acting freaky that night like she knew something was wrong. My mom popped in a couple of times during the night and ended up sleeping in her car! My dad and Katie left Midland around 11 pm and drove through the night to Dallas.

I labored a few more hours and then we decided to call in the anesthetist.  I had asked my mom to have her CBS group pray that I would be able to receive the epidural and asked her to pray again that night. (Because of my back surgery there was a big question mark as to whether or not they would be able to find my epidural space). We had heard from our nurse that the anesthetist had full confidence that he would be able to successfully place the epidural, but we were still nervous. He was in fact, very gifted! Within 10 minutes or so, I felt the relief of the epidural. We were so fortunate to have such a gifted anesthesiologist!

That morning, May 3^rd, I was feeling great. I woke up after getting about 4 hours of sleep (to my delight!), and my family all arrived. I went on and on about how great the epidural was and how easy things were going so far. Dr Payne showed up (Thursdays are Dr Littrells day off) and said I should be able to start pushing at noon. I asked Dillon to send out texts to our close friends to alert them.

This is where the story gets a little fuzzy. Between 10 and 11 am, I started feeling my contractions. It was also about this time that my nurse informed me that I had only progressed to a 5 or 6. I requested more epidural juice which helped for a short period of time before wearing off again. I started to get very quiet as my pain increased and my family came in and out of the room very concerned. The time period between 11 am and 5 pm were filled with 3 bouts of vomiting, lots of requesting stronger medicine, and lots of pain. I am not entirely sure what happened, but it seemed that the epidural was not effective in the area that I was having contractions, but my legs were still numb so I couldn’t move at all which actually made the situation much more uncomfortable. Dillon was so sweet and helpful during these hours- as he just sat with me quietly and encouraged me as needed.

Finally, close to 5 pm, I was given the go-ahead to start pushing. My nurse Susie was awesome. She was very take charge and confident. She told Dillon to hold one leg and she held the other as she gave instructions. I did not feel any pain! I had been terrified to push because I thought that my epidural had worn off, but it worked below the contractions. At 5:29, between contractions and without me even pushing, Reese’s head popped out and with one big push she was all the way out! They laid her on my stomach and I remember looking at Dillon and we were both in awe. I was extremely exhausted but I remember feeling euphoric that the labor was over and my baby was finally here! 

Since leaving the hospital, my mom stayed with us for about 2 weeks and was a HUGE blessing. She cooked, cleaned, played night nurse and was an overall encouragement. Forever thankful for my sweet Mama!!! We were able to adjust slowly to the huge shift that a baby brings to life. Reese is a great eater, and gets up every 3 hours in the night to feed and generally goes back to sleep well. She is the sweetest baby! We are so blessed that she is ours to care for!!! 

38 Weeks

So last Friday was my 38 week mark. To be honest, at this point in the pregnancy there is a part of me that just wants to hibernate at home, not be seen in this enlarged state of being. But work really isn't so bad, I prop my feet when they get swollen and the walking around is probably good for me! My doctor suspects I will make it to my due date or a little after.

Last Wednesday I made Spicy Shrimp (head over to Pioneer Woman for the recipe) for Dillon's belated birthday dinner. We ate outside on the patio and Dillon surprised me with a little something called a Push Present- {real}pearls! I was SO surprised. He is so sweet.

We had a nice weekend doing nothing! We slept in Saturday, then enjoyed a breakfast of Cinnamon rolls, followed by 'The Lucky One' at Studio Movie Grill (the matinee is only $5!). We ran a few errands returning things, took the dogs for a walk around the lake at Legacy and had dinner at Applebee's. We are enjoying these last few days just us two- and looking forward to adding Reese to our little unit!

Easter, Week 36

I CAN'T believe how CLOSE we are! Homestretch has taken on a new meaning, as I find myself thinking that she can really come any day now. Excitement and fear. The unknown. The guaranteed. I know life is about to change. I know there will be labor pains. I know there will be sleepless nights. But I can't wait to experience all of the surprises too- Finding out who Reese looks like, learning her sounds, introducing her to family and friends!

This past weekend we stayed in town for Easter. Quite the treat, I had a 4 day weekend that I took full advantage of. We had the perfect balance of rest and play. Saturday we got together with Dillon's family at the Eggstravaganza in Frisco, and celebrated Sunday morning at The Gathering.

36 Weeks

   

Easter Sunday, the 3 of us

Week 34

This past week I finally started experiencing some of the not so pleasant parts of pregnancy! All I can wear {comfortably} to work are flip-flops lest my feet bulge out in their swollen state. Teachers that I work with have started saying things like "Any day now!" or "Are you going to make it til the end?" which in one sense is not helpful to hear, but I understand their sentiment because I really am large.

Last Friday we saw 'The Hunger Games' with some friends and then went to Whiskey Cake. I wasn't too uncomfortable sitting for 2 hours but I have a feeling that might be my last movie before baby? I wouldn't mind if Reese decided to come just a little early. But of course, we just want a healthy baby and I know these last few weeks should be relished.

Things are winding down at work- Cheerleading tryouts are finished, parent meetings have come and gone, and now I am working on finishing up all the loose ends in the clinic. Dillon on the other hand has been busy sending out his resume and scheduling interviews - we are kind of about to switch roles and I am ready for the change.

We have proudly been sharing the news that our little girl is taking after her daddy (and myself I suppose)- At her 34 weeks appointment, her legs were measuring 37 weeks! That has some of my family suspecting an early arrival- we shall see!

Charleston

A week before Spring Break my mom proposed a last minute girls trip to any destination. After some discussion with Dillon, who was a little worried about me travelling at 33 weeks, and getting the go-ahead from my doctor, we booked a trip to Charleston, S.C!

Why Charleston? I thought it would be fun to go somewhere we had never been, and knew I did not want to go to some big city or a beach (for obvious reasons), but rather somewhere beautiful and laid back.

I am so glad we went! We flew out on a Tuesday, spent 2 full days there and flew back Friday. The first full day there we went on a walking tour through the historic streets, down to the harbour. We took rickshaws everywhere we went or walked- everything was just a few blocks from our hotel. Of course there was shopping and delicious restraunts. The second day we got massages, pedicures, strolled through the  Market which is a sort of flea market type setting and saw the Aquarium.


My mom gave me back and foot rubs every night, and we were served breakfast in our room each morning. The Inn where we stayed also had tea and desserts every afternoon. One late afternoon after walking around all day, my mom made a comment about me being on my feet for so long. We then went on to discuss that I would still rather be on the trip, walking around because that is much better than being a beached whale (which is what I surely would have been had I stayed in Dallas all week)!

All in all, a fabulous last minute trip.

The Inn/Bed and Breakfast was over 200 years old

Afternoon tea the day we arrived