Welcome Baby Mallory

The long anticipated little girl is FINALLY here (as are some pictures of her). These are just a few to get you started. We have TONS more, which I will soon post along with her birth story, but she's asleep right now so I am going to go sleep too.

But, her stats are:

Mallory Isabella Cochran

August 21, 2009

1:11pm

8pounds 5 ounces

20.5 inches long

Beautiful and perfect in every way!

Mommy checking her out at the hospital
Adoring Daddy holding his little girl
The happy family getting ready to go home
Mmmm...fingers!
We arrived home to such cuter decorations
Grandma, Daddy, Mallory, Mommy and Grandpa- aren't we such a cute family?
Onesie handmade with love by Mommy
Chilaxin in my papasan chair
Our burrito baby
The precious girl- isn't she just beautiful? THIS is what love looks like!!!

Baby Update

So, I went to the doctor again this morning. I wish I could say I left with a baby in my arms :) Not quite that lucky (or that easy) but I at least got some good news. He said things are progressing, slowly but surely, and she and I are still happy and healthy (ok, I'll debate the happy part- thrilled to be *almost* blessed with a baby but not so happy she's a tardy one). AT THE MOST, I have 1 week to go, and they will induce me on August 26th if she isn't here on her own by then. I am hoping she chooses to make her debut on her own, but I did at least leave with reassurance that my child will exit eventually, and has a scheduled birthday.

In the meantime, I get to enjoy some "adult" time with my wonderful husband (he's in the kitchen cooking dinner as I write this- what a guy). AND...my parents arrive today! Yay! They are on the shuttle from the airport to base as I type this, so I should be picking them up any minute now. They are spending 3 weeks here with us, and I know they will be the biggest help (and best grandparents ever). I can't wait to see them, and I know they feel the same way. And of course, we are all waiting to meet Lil' Miss Thing, so c'mon out kiddo!

P.S. Check out the ticker on the side- it just keeps going up. That just cracks me up for some reason. Guess it's just a subtle reminder to me how many days overdue I am- like I need that reminder!!

Baby Ticker

Ok, I just had to laugh at the baby ticker on the side of my blog this morning. For the past 2 days it has said "1 day to go", even though we all know that's crap and she was due 3 days ago. This morning it says "2 days to go"- apparently if you don't get the kid out on time, it starts counting back up again. That's just funny!

So, on the agenda for today (3 days late of course):

1. give the house 1 more good scrub down and make my husband keep it that way (my parents are arriving for a 3 week visit tomorrow afternoon)

2.work on a couple of embroidery projects for friends (one has a sister w/ a new baby and one has a pregnant sister-in-law)

3. go get my nails done or go over to Costco and walk around in an effort to produce this kid

4. work up some tears to shed at the Dr.'s office tomorrow for my 41 week apt ;)

She is her mother's daughter...

I'm sorta notorious for being 5 (or more) minutes late everywhere I go. I guess this kid of mine inherited that genetic trait. She was due Saturday. It's now Monday. Tick, tock, tick kiddo... I realize that the due date isn't like a magical moment that she has to come out, but watching it come and then go is just a bit depressing when you feel like a hippopotamus that has just run a marathon and all you want to do is see her and hold her. Rest assured, when she does get here, I'm going to love her at first sight. But I'm also going to be talking to her about puncuality (and her lack thereof!) If any one has any extra labor dust laying around, will you pass a little (or a lot) my way? I'm hoping she decides to make her entrance into the world VERY soon. Keep your fingers crossed....

I love playing games- I do NOT love playing "The Waiting Game"

So today was Lil' Beans due date...no kid. Guess she's not punctual. Oh well, she is her mother's daughter! It's kinda been a roller coaster the past few days:

Wed-gonna induce Thurs

Thurs-not gonna induce

Fri night- My stomach starts hurting- bad- about 6pm. The problem was that it was one long, sharp pain instead of contractions I could time. I thought maybe I was just hungry. I ate, it didn't help. I took Tums, didn't help. I took an hour nap, didn't help. So, I finally called the L&D ward and they said to come on in. They hooked me up to the monitors and watched me for about 20 minutes. Turns out that yes, I was having contractions which was what was causing the pain. They were basically one on top of the other, which is why I couldn't time them. They were frequent and lasting about 2 min each, but not really reliable or a pattern. Because there were several, they went ahead and checked me, but there wasn't really a change from when I was checked on Wed. (2cm dialated, 60% effaced, -2 station). So, they sent me home. I went to sleep and woke up this morning to nothing. Glad to have the constant pain gone, but I'd welcome contractions if it meant a baby.

So, we are still playing the waiting game....I guess the good news is that she HAS to come out at some point. They will let you go to 41.5 weeks here, so AT THE LATEST she will be here Aug 26th. I'm really hoping she decides to come on her own before then. It's only 11 days from now...but it's still 11 days from now!

*And now for a sappy alert*

I heard the SWEETEST song on another friend's blog today, and I literally got teary-eyed, because the lyrics are sooo fitting to my life at the moment. I can't wait to play it for my little girl. It's called "Find your Wings" by Mark Harris. Here are the lyrics, aren't they just beautiful?

Mark Harris - Find Your Wings
From the album The Line Between The Two

It's only for a moment you are mine to hold
The plans that heaven has for you
Will all too soon unfold
So many different prayers I'll pray
For all that you might do
But most of all I'll want to know
You're walking in the truth
And If I never told you
I want you to know
As I watch you grow

Chorus:
I pray that God would fill your heart with dreams
And that faith gives you the courage
To dare to do great things
I'm here for you whatever this life brings
So let my love give you roots
And help you find your wings

May passion be the wind
That leads you through your days
And may conviction keep you strong
Guide you on your way
May there be many moments
That make your life so sweet
Oh, but more than memories

Chorus:

It's not living if you don't reach for the sky
I'll have tears as you take off
But I'll cheer as you fly

Chorus:

Game Off...for now

So...no baby today. I was told yesterday that the dr would call me with the other lab results she was waiting on, but she was 95% sure she'd admit me today and induce me. I got a call from the dr this morning with the other lab results she was waiting on, and they all came back stone cold normal. Now, don't get me wrong- I wasn't wanting high blood pressure or other pregnancy issues at all. That would just be crazy talk. I'm glad I'm fine and the baby is fine. But...I'm just ready to see her face and hold her- in my arms not my belly! It's hard when you get your hopes up, and then they don't work out quite like you thought they would. Guess that is just the story of life sometimes, and you have to remember that God has it all in His plan, not yours.

But the good news is...she WILL come out, at some point. I have started to dialate and efface, so I think my body (and hopefully Miss C) knows it is time to get things going here soon. They won't let you go over 41.5 weeks here, so looking at the calendar that makes the date August 26th be the latest she will make her appearance, if they do end up having to induce me in the end. That's just a mere 13 days from now (perhaps the longest 13 days of my entire life, but only 13 days- I can do that!) I'm hoping she comes on her own before that of course. Her actual due date is August 15th, so maybe she's just a punctual baby (that would be a trait inherited from her Daddy, not her Mom). Maybe she's waiting for it to be the 14th or 15th since things happen to us in 4's or 5's it seems (Brett and I met- got engaged 4 months later, got married 5 months after being engaged, got pregnant 5 months after being married, have lived in Yokota 5 months, my birthday is the 6th & Brett's is the 1st- 6-1=5...ok that's a stretch, but you get the idea...maybe she wants her birthday to have a 5 in it). Eh, who knows? She'll come when she's ready I guess. Until then, I'm gonna keep going on walks, eating spicy food, having "fun" with the hubby... all those things they say help get things moving and grooving! You, my dear readers, just keep your fingers and toes crossed and start saying a few prayers that she gets the memo to head on out!

A Letter to my Baby Girl

I'm sure this is sorta cheesy- but I'm awake this morning, and I couldn't fall back asleep. WAY too busy a day and TOO MUCH on my mind, so I thought I'd write about it. Excuse the sappiness- you can probably wipe the melty, sticky ooze off your keyboard :)

Dear Baby Girl,

I can't believe the day is finally here when I get to meet you and see your precious face, count your wiggly fingers, know who you look like, and just hold you as looong as I want to. Will you have Daddy's nose, or Mama's mouth? Will you get Mommy's pudgy toes? Will you have Daddy's skin that tans? Will you have a goofy, fun personality like your Daddy? Will you like to sew or paint or have a creative side like your Mommy? I can't wait to see- I've dreamed of this day, my little one!

Ever since I was a little girl myself, I knew I wanted to have my own babies. I always hoped I would be blessed with that, but you never know what God has in store for your life, and I've learned in my 31 years that trusting His plan is much better than making my own. I hope you learn that lesson too- I'll do my best to teach it to you! You are God's child. He has made you in His image and blessed ME to be your mommy. What a challenge, and what a thrill. I feel honored that He picked me to be your mom, and I pray you feel the same way. I don't think God takes that decision lightly- it is an absolute privilege to be a parent and I will do my best to raise you right, and make God proud. I've always had a very close relationship with my mom (your grandmommy) and I hope and pray I can be a good a mommy to you as she is to me. She's thrilled to meet you too, by the way!

Your Daddy and I can't wait to meet you. We've loved you before we've even met you and I know we will love you a zillion more times once we see you, and that will NEVER change! Life gets hard sometimes, you will do things to upset and disappoint us (and vice versa) but please know, that NO MATTER WHAT, come what may, I will ALWAYS be proud of you, and love you with my whole heart. Nothing you can do or say will change that. You are my daughter and I am blessed to be your mommy! We don't have a manual for this, and you don't come with an instruction book, but your Daddy and I are so excited to be parents, and I know we will both do our best to love you unconditionally, raise you in God's word and make you a good citizen of this world. It's our honor to get to do that! You are our blessing, our miracle, from God and we will raise you to the best of our abilities.

I, like every parent who has gone before me I'm sure, have big dreams for you- watching you take your first steps, say your first words, ride your first bike, come home with your first 100% in school, your first date (maybe you'll get to do that one day :), your prom, you going to college, your wedding, a career, kids of your own one day...these are all things that I hope and pray for you my sweet baby. It's amazing to think that I am going to get to watch you do these things-you, my sweet child.

I have tears in my eyes as I write this, because I can feel you kicking me in my belly, and as much as I'm ready to see you and meet you and NOT be pregnant anymore, there is a bond like I can't describe when pregnant. You are always near me. I am never alone, because I have someone else with, heck IN, me! I am the only one who can feel you kick and roll and move and I know that is all because I am feeding you and helping you grow into the big and strong girl you will one day be. I did that, and it is something I will always treasure. I have been told I'll actually MISS being pregnant. Now, I am sure they are not talking about the morning sickness, or the swollen feet, or the achy back, the heartburn or the fact that the weirdest of smells could send me running for the bathroom. Those things- well, they can all take a hike. But the bond I have with you- it's indescribable and something I will treasure forever. God picked me to be your mommy- wow! He placed you in me 40 weeks ago, and helped me grow you big and strong. Along the way he was molding you and shaping you to fit in His image, and today we will get to see that. Amazing!

I know that in the next few days, as you prepare to make your arrival (make it a smooth, easy entrance, ok?) and we meet you, will be emotional and exciting. I know that it will be like nothing I've ever experienced before. I am filled with emotion just thinking about it- seriously, I can't see what I'm typing b/c my eyes are watery. I have no real way of knowing what life holds for us. But all I know is that I love you already. I'd fly to the moon and back, slay dragons, jump out of burning buildings -all for you- and I've never even seen you! It is amazing I can love you this much and I know it will multiply by a million the moment I lay my eyes on you. You are my sweet baby girl, my greatest treasure in life, and I am so excited, honored and proud to call you my own. I'll see you in about 24 hours my little one. I love you more than I can ever say-

Mommy

BIG news!

So, I have some BIG news today...I think I'll be having this baby tomorrow!!! I went in for my weekly apt today, and the dr said things look good but she was concerned I might have pre-eclampsia (basically a fancy word for high blood pressure while pregnant). I had gained 5 lbs in one week (yikes!!!) and was really "puffy" looking all over. So, after a few labs were done, she said it is mild, but she thinks she wants to bring me in tomorrow afternoon and start an induction. Wow! I am SOO ready to meet my lil' missie, and also scared and nervous and have a few "can I really do this" thoughts (little late for those, huh?) but I think most of all I'm so excited to get to meet my little girl finally. So, cross your fingers and toes, and say a few prayers that I have an easy, painfree (ha) delivery and that Brett, myself and Baby C all make the perfect little family in about 36 hours! Whoo-hoo- let's do this!!!

The "Meet Kirsten" Shower at my house

The weekend after my lovely baby shower, I held a baby shower for my friend Lynn. She actually already had Little Miss Kirsten, but didn't get a shower ahead of time here in Japan. So I had a "meet and greet" at my house. It was lots of fun, and I enjoyed being able to host it. I was tired afterwards, and my feet were swollen (that's what happens when you cook and host a party at 36 wks pregnant yourself) but it was all worth it. I think Lynn had a great time, and Miss Kirsten was passed around and enjoyed by all!

The clothesline banner I hung up in my living room
Mindy, Abbie (holding Kirsten) and Lynn on the couch
Melanie, Chelsea and Bridget enjoy the eats
Lynn's mom, Jessica, Abbie and Mindy
The little members of the shower- Ruby, Wyatt and Maverick

Japanese Baby Shower

We've only lived here in Japan 4.5 months and I've been very blessed to have made some great friends in that time! Some are squadron spouses, some PCS'd over on the same plane as us, some are friends thru mommy-and-me groups, some I knew from Dyess, and some are neighbors, but they are all great. I know this (well, for several reasons) but because I was lucky enough to have them give me a baby shower! On July 11th (at 35 weeks, with 35 days to go until my due date), they threw myself and Baby C a wonderful party in the rec room of one of the base towers. The decor was adorable, the food was delicious, and the presents were cute as could be. I LOVED it and this baby is pretty darn set now with more stuff than a kiddo could ever need! Thank you soooo much girls!

The adorable cake, made my Lynn. Not only was it cute- it was yummy too!
The decor- complete with cherry blossoms in the vases!
More decor
Playing the "draw a baby on the plate on your head" game- it was quite comical!
Eating, drinking and mingling
Eating and hanging out
Opening all my fabulous gifts

This kiddo is gonna have to change clothes every 2 hours just to wear all the adorable outfits she has, but really, is there anything cuter than baby girl clothes?
The whole group: Sarah (due 7/31), Jessica, Blythe, me, Mindy, Melanie (due 8/22), Laura, Hillary, Bridget, Amanda, Lynn, Daphne, Courtney and Carlin, Courtney and Kenzleigh, Heather

The camera was propped up on some packages of diapers to take the picture- ha!

Just Curious...

So I've added 2 polls to the side bar- how much will Baby C weigh and when will Baby C arrive. Feel free to chime in with your vote. And I'd love to hear your specific date and weight answers, so post a comment here if you want to be precise with an answer. I'm sure you guys can already guess what MY answers will be (small baby=less pain=ready to meet my baby girl!) but I'm curious to know what the rest of you think. And as soon as she does arrive- I'll make sure to post the specifics, and lots of pictures too of course!!!

P.S. You guys ended up guessing right on the boy/girl poll, so let's see if you can do the same here!

Redoing Baby C's cribl

Just had to shout out quickly to the 3 girls who helped me redo Baby C's crib-Hillary, Amanda and Bridget. Brett and I bought this crib for a great price back in April from a family that was moving back to the states. It was just what I wanted- light wood, and the kind of crib that converts to a day bed and then a double bed eventually. I researched that it was a safe bed, and made sure we had every screw, nut and bolt that came with it. The only problem was that the kid who had slept in it first was apparently part woodchuck, as he had "eaten" part of the front rail (he must have some very strong front teeth!) Brett had said he would sand it down and restain it if it was the crib I wanted (and I was trying to be the helpful wife and save us a few $'s on this crib instead of a brand new one). That plan was all well and good...until he got stuck in Singapore for a month! He probably would have had time to redo it once he finally got back, but I had spent so much time getting the rest of the nursery ready- all that was incomplete was the crib. So...many thanks to my 3 sweet friends, neighbors and East Side Comrades- Hillary, Bridget and Amanda- for all their hard work. Thank you, thank you and thank you!! It looks great now!

I love you girls, and Baby C loves you too!

Birthday Parties, Anniversaries and July 4th

I'll just make this a combo post of a few events and activities from the past few weeks. As you can see, I stay pretty busy around here and am rarely bored. That's a good thing I think! I feel like there is pretty much always something to do, if you want to get out and about, and I enjoy that lifestyle.

Nolan's Birthday

My friend Heather had a birthday party for her son Nolan. He turned the big...1! Here are a few of the guests (and their parents) watching Nolan (and Heather and Jake) open presents.
Heather and Nolan opening presents
Nolan's way cool cake and candles. It opened up, spun around and played Happy Birthday. Seriously- the Japanese come up with some cool stuff!
Nolan getting ready to dig in! He actually wasn't a big fan of the cake in the end, or getting it all over him. Most of it was left on the plate, and the adults ate all the cupcakes!

July 4, 2009
This is Hanger 15, on base. It's where they hold pretty much all the large events here at Yokota. For July 4th, they had it all opened up with a stage at the back for live bands to play on; a food line on the side w/ free bbq, burgers, hotdogs, chicken, corn on the cob, beans, chips, bread, drinks, cookies, etc.; and tables for people to sit/eat. In front of the hanger were all kinds of little stands with stuff to do- face painting, go carts, tshirts, giveaways...all sorts of stuff and all free! It was a fun time. I wish Brett could have been here to enjoy it, but I had a fun time with all the friends I've made from around base.
A few pictures of the fireworks (my camera has a hard time capturing them). This was the 1st time in 3 years they have gotten to shoot off fireworks on July 4th- it has rained every other year!

Our 1st Wedding Anniversary
Once Brett FINALLY made it home from Singapore, we did get to celebrate our anniversary. I made dinner and we celebrated with "sparkRing soda" - no I'm not even making that up. Don't you love the Japanese translations? Ha!
Our delicious anniversary cake :) FD is Brett's nickname at work. It was a chocolate cake w/ white frosting and pink embelishments, just like our wedding cake though (although that cake had pink orchids on it instead of writing!)
Here's why it said what it did - I let Brett ice the cake! We did exchange anniversary gifts as well. I went the traditional route and did "paper" as the 1st anniversary gift. I got Brett a neat picture that is framed and hanging on the wall in the "man room". It is a print of a star map of Ambergris Caye, Belize from the night we got married. It is pretty cool looking I think, and came with a star chart describing all the constellations. I also got him tickets to go on a dinner cruise thru the Tokyo Bay one night (we will probably go one night after lil' one gets here and my parents are visiting and can babysit). Brett went modern with his gift, which is "clocks". He bought me an awesome Tag Heuer watch- pearl faced with diamonds where the #s are. It's beautiful. I went into Tachikawa a few days ago and got the band adjusted and it fits great now. I LOVE it, and I needed a new watch too!!! Go Brett!!

Trip to Ikea
This is all my loot from IKEA. I went there with my sweet neighbor Bridget one day. It's about a 2 hour drive from base, but we had a great time. I got TONS of stuff- 2 lamps, 2 small tables, some kitchen items, some stuff for the nursery, a rug...all kinds of stuff for only $210! Not bad, huh?

John's Birthday
Lastly, a picture of my sweet friend Daphne (we PCS'd here at the same time- literally, we were on the same plane together. They were the row in front of us from Seattle to here!) and her super fun neighbor Bonnie. It was Daphne's hubby John's birthday, so we got together to grill, eat and chat. Good times. And the best part- I totally don't even look prego in this picture (although I'm about 36 wks!)