The Berg Family

Unschool is cool also!

2011-12-09T10:43:00.000-08:00

Going through multiple public schools with my oldest, I'd often ask after picking her up from school what she remembers most about her day and what she learned about. The responses would cause me great irritation because it would always go something like this, "So-and-so said yada yada yada about so-and-so and then she started crying and the boy was mean and pushed her." As for what she learned, "Um....I can't remember." Since unschooling Madisyn has chosen to learn about AND retain with great enthusiasm many interesting things. A dinner out to Souplantation featuring their blueberry specials led to a topic of where they got their blueberries, which led to Madisyn being interested about Maine and so on. Here are some of the things Madisyn has been interested in learning about:

Science:
Polar Bears, Nile Crocodiles Whales: Genius, species habitats, behavior, statistics.

Arts:
Play-writing

History:
America - 120 years after Columbus
Maine: Mapping, drawing and the history of Maine (only using an Encyclopedia)

Math:
Converting pounds to tons
Liquid measurements
Fahrenheit and Celsius

Science:
A Sea Turtles Journey: story page and storybook drawing on Sea Turtles
How it's made: toilets, hearing aids and rubber mats from recycled tires

Cultures:
About the Purambo Tribe and Culture: Q&A session with me

Extracurricular:
Firehouse tour

Let me give you a little background about mine and Derek's public school education. Derek basically fudged his way through high school with good looks and great football skills. Teacher's pet. Skimmed by barely graduating. Found a passion for drafting through a few classes provided in high school. I was bullied all through school, physically and mentally abused by other students, dreaded going, failed all through and eventually dropped out in 9th grade.

Fast forward: Derek's passion for drafting led him to apprentice with an Architectural and drafting company at the age of 18 where he only learned by field experience. He excelled and quickly moved up and now at age 28 owns his own company MADesign and Drafting Services and is well known and loved by those in this trade throughout San Diego county.

Studied on my own for my GED. Found a passion for the medical field, trained for my EMT then later graduated with 4.0 gpa at Intellitec and was an Anatomy and Physiology tutor. Sailed through CNA training with a 4.0 and did the Valedictorian speech at graduation. I own The Mother Birth Doula Services and I have aspirations of traveling to The Farm in Tennessee to be trained by the top Midwives in the country.

I'm terrible at math. Couldn't spell well before I started blogging here. I couldn't name the Presidents in order or more than a few for that matter. I couldn't tell you much about science that doesn't involve the human body. I honestly could care less about any of that. And it hasn't stopped me from perusing my passions.

Many think Unschooling means a child isn't learning anything educational. In the last two weeks Madisyn has retained more information than in two weeks of traditional school jam packed full of repetitive and often boring material. No Madisyn may not be the best speller or math wiz at the end of the day but she has great enthusiasm to tell us about how the Purambo Tribe had never seen white man before and that they trade pigs for women. Who knows, maybe she'll one day want to travel around the world to visit secluded tribes. I have great confidence she will find her passion and that she will take the necessary steps to excel in it. If that means she has to take extra courses of study later in life then I fully support that because it's her desire to, and those that are passionate about what they do, also excel in what they do.

Del Mar Fair 2011

2011-10-25T18:18:00.000-07:00

Monkey Faces

2011-10-25T17:29:00.000-07:00

Madilynn turns two and other antics

2011-10-25T16:58:00.000-07:00

This girl loves her sleep!

Silly girl!

Monkey and Snoopy

2011-10-25T16:34:00.000-07:00

Some cute snapshots of the babies actually not fighting.

Bugga's Birthday

2011-10-25T16:04:00.000-07:00

So in the craziness between Madisyn's 9th birthday and last Friday, I have been super stressed and just unable to blog. I'm happy to get back on track and wanted to share some pictures of Madisyn's all day, all night camping birthday bash. The last couple of years we haven't been able to give her an actual birthday party so this year we wanted to surprise her with one. Well, we did! And it lasted.....all day and all night! We had a popcorn machine, snocone maker, movies and a disco ball. If I remember correctly, there were 12 girls camped out in one huge tent! We also had a special cake made by my good friend Nadine. Madisyn said she loved everything!

SURPRISE!

Movie Time!

Cake Time!

Sister Similarities

2011-08-09T21:08:00.000-07:00

Top row: Madisyn
Middle row: Maelynn
Third row: Madilynn
To view larger, click on each.

Family photo sessions

2011-07-26T14:06:00.001-07:00

Click here to view this photo book larger

"I'M STARVING!"

2011-07-14T21:29:00.000-07:00

I hear too often the cliche, "Boy's will eat you out of house and home." Well, you haven't been to the estrogen saturated Berg house then! My girls literally ask for food every hour if not more. Yes.....every hour! At first I was very accepting of it. The girls eat mainly fresh fruit, vegetables and raw trail mix during the day. Pretty much all they want with the exception of too much fruit. So I figured it was fine with them snacking all day long because it was good foods. But it has become just too much work for me lately and quite annoying to be honest. During this time I also was struggling with meat products for a couple reasons. One: the quality, and how the meat is processed. Two: the high cost of meat that is actually good for us to consume. Despite my Hubby's complaining, I wasn't making meat dishes for my family very often.

Derek and I often discuss the constant food issue in our house. Mainly out of me venting how I feel like my kitchen is a 24 hour buffet. I got to thinking, "Do all kids ask for food this often?" Surely those families that frequently eat out don't visit the drive-thru 15 times a day because their kids are hungry every hour right?! So are those kids staying fuller longer? Is the fillers used in fast-food products actually keeping hunger at bay? I'm almost tempted to test this theory and get my kids a happy meal and then watch the clock until the next, "I'm so starving my tummy hurts!" moment.

A friend mentioned I should try adding a protein to every snack or meal. Ah ha! Light-bulb moment! I haven't been giving my kids enough protein throughout the day (aside from raw nuts) to keep them fuller, longer. Maybe that's why the last few months I have noticed the brimming fruit bowl will last maybe 3 days! THAT'S a lot of produce.....and shopping! So here I am constantly feeding my kids but them not feeling fully satisfied.

The goal, how to keep our kids fuller, longer. Along with our new lifestyle change to eliminate gluten from our diets, I have decided to start purchasing good quality meat products again like: wild caught salmon, free-range chicken, 100% grass fed beef, 100% grass fed bison burgers, shrimp and wild caught mahi mahi. I feel good about feeding these to my family even though the cost is almost triple. We feel that paying for good health now is better and ultimately cheaper than paying for bad health later. I have been slowly becoming more interested in the Paleo lifestyle but taking baby-steps right now with a gluten-free lifestyle. I came across an awesome sounding recipe that I'm hoping will work out great with keeping my kids' appetites satisfied a little longer and will make it easy for me to run out the door with them at 8am for my personal trainer sessions at LA Fitness. Yes, my awesome hubby rocks my world and gifted me twice a week personal trainer sessions to help me get back into my pre-pregnancy shape. Hopefully 6-pack and all!

I made these tonight and had to taste test one just to make sure it would pass the kid test tomorrow am. Oh my DELISH!! So excited about them and they are nice and heavy, filling and super satisfying! I hope you enjoy!

OMLETTE MUFFINS
10 free range organic large eggs
8-12oz organic natural sausage
2 cups finely chopped vegetable:(I used 2 large leaves and stems of red swiss chard, 1/2 red bell pepper and 2 green onions). You can use broccoli, mushroom, cauliflower etc.
1/4 tsp sea salt
1/8 tsp ground pepper
1/8 cup paleo mayo (optional)
1/8 cup water (optional)

Heat oven to 350. Line muffin pan with paper muffin cups. Cook and finely crumble sausage. Place cooked sausage in a bowl and set aside. Place finely chopped vegetables in pan with cooked sausage grease. Add olive oil if needed to saute a couple minutes just until swiss chard is wilted and flavorful. Add vegetables to sausage bowl. Mix well. In separate bowl, mix eggs, salt and pepper together well. Add optional water and paleo mayo (I didn't use either because I honestly forgot to add both and the muffins still came out fab!). Add egg mixture to sausage and veggie mixture and mix well. Fill paper cups 3/4 full. Bake 20-25 minutes.

Paleo Mayo:
2 free range organic large eggs
2 cups olive oil (preferably not extra virgin to avoid too strong of a taste)
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tsp yellow mustard
1 tsp cayenne pepper

In blender add eggs, vinegar and mustard. Leave blender running. VERY SLOWLY drizzle olive oil. BE PATENT. Blend well until desired thickness. Add seasoning to taste. Place in pint mason jar with lid and refrigerate up to two weeks.

Open for business!

2011-07-08T10:41:00.000-07:00

I'm sitting here at an indoor play area for kids, watching my littles enjoy a well needed outing after a month long of me working long hours to get my most recent development off the ground.

In the last month our girlies have grown leaps. Madilynn has toilet trained herself and uses the bathroom on her own. Having Madisyn at home during the day helps cut down the amount of constant snacking I have to provide since she is able to wash up unlimited amounts of fruit and veggie for them. Madisyn also provides much needed entertainment for her younger sisters so I'm no longer micro-managing playtime. All of these milestones have made it easier for me to pursue finding myself outside being wife and mom.

A few weeks ago I attended a DONA approved Doula certification course. I have always had a passion for birth and at a young age wanted to be an OB so I could be the first to see babies enter this world. As I grew and became more familiar with conventional medicine after trying my hand as an EMT and nurse assistant, I realized that it was not the route for me. My passion for home birth became deep rooted after planning for my own home birth. My interest in home birth led me to research becoming a Midwife. I'm unsure of where God wants me to be regarding Midwifery so I have decided to work my way toward possibly becoming a Midwife by gaining much needed and invaluable experience as a Doula first. I have already been so blessed to be a part of five very special births and I find great joy in bringing laboring Moms encouragement and comfort during the birthing process. And the icing, I get to be one of the first to watch these precious angels enter the world.

So far I know this is the path I want to travel on. I knew it was certain when I became emotional at the discussion of my website with our website designer. As most of you already know, I also have a passion for natural health and have written many informative papers regarding different topics. All of these will be available in printable form on my website for anyone interested. Another exciting addition to my services is belly casting. I think it will be a great service to provide at one of my prenatal visits to become more comfortable with mom and more connected with baby through touch. This will be a learning process that I'm happy to embark on.

Along with designing my website, our website designer Cj Gilbert is creating a very special logo for me that I can't wait to share with everyone.

During this process I have grown closer to some beautiful ladies that are in the same line of work and that are great mentors. One in particular happens to be good friends with Dr. Biter who was our amazing OB with our last two births and is just beyond words special to us. She has some beautiful stories of working along side Dr. Biter and maybe one day I will get to experience working side by side with him for a birth. This Doula has been working very hard on a project very dear to her heart and she was glowing with joy when she presented me her finished product. There will be a section on my website for her product as soon as it is available to sell wholesale, so please make sure you check back and look for it. It is a fabulous gift for moms-to-be!

My next step is creating business cards and I'm so antsy to get my finished logo so I can send it out to a business cards designer. Waiting for my website and logo has been one of the hardest things. I'm forcing myself not to micro-manage CJ. Bless his heart!

I'm very excited to share that I currently have four moms due. One Mom is my cousin Rachel who I have been so honored to be part of the births of her first two children and now she is expecting a second baby boy. Two of the Moms are part of OSD (Operation Special Delivery) which is a volunteer program for the military. I provide my services free of charge for them if their partners are deployed or injured and the Mom needs extra support. The fourth Mom is a patient of our Chiropractor. Three of the births are within 4 days of each other so I foresee a very busy week the end of October. I'm totally up for the challenge, but just in-case.....I have an awesome back-up Doula!

I hope my website is ready to launch by the end of the month so stay tuned! And in the meantime......feel free to spread the word about my services. I'm open for business!!

Hard to keep up!

2011-06-06T21:16:00.000-07:00

Our little family is growing super fast! So many new milestones reached, it's hard to keep up. I have many pictures I want to share with everyone so my writing will be short.

Madisyn will be turning 9 next month! We are throwing her a surprise birthday party disguised as a 4th of July BBQ. We'll be having a camp-out in the backyard with lots of fun things to do. A good friend of mine Nadine makes beautiful cakes and will be making Madisyn a very special one this year.

Maelynn is still doing really well with her treatment. The days we forget to give it to her are miserable so I need to really keep on top of remembering it twice a day. Maelynn recently celebrated her third birthday with wonderful family and friends and it was so sweet to see her face glow the whole day.

Madilynn is 22 months old and talking up a storm. He conversation skills are awesome and she is speaking full, clear sentences. Five days ago we made the very hard decision to take her pacifier away and it has taken some adjusting. Madilynn is toilet training herself during the day and will use her "froggy potty" as long as she is bare-bottom. A part of me is excited at the new milestone but a part of me will miss cloth diapering our last baby.

Madilynn sings a little song

Things are going well for our family. There will be some pretty exciting news in the next few months but due to the overwhelming amount of pictures and video I want to share, it will have to wait for another time. Until then I hope you enjoy the snapshots. Sending our love!

Glen Ivy with my good friends Jenny and Nadine. Spent the day covering ourselves in mud. Awesomeness!

A night out with friends Matt and Mikala Hubbard. My first K1 speed experience. Adrenaline rush much! Good thing our friend is also our Chiropractor because I needed an adjustment after being so tense and nervous! I was very last but laughed the whole way to the finish line.

Derek's client-friend invited us to stay at his beach-front timeshare again this year. Of course it would be silly to pass up such an awesome offer and of course we had an amazing stay! This time we invited my Sister-in-law and her family. The cousins had a great time spending the weekend together soaking up the sun....... and sand. Lucky for you, no butt crack shots this time.

Homemade pizza-pizza-pizza time!

Never get tired of this view!

Beach treasures!

Cousins

At the pier - Gretchen and Joshua

Loving life with my soul-mate!

Two months ago the Hubbards invited us to Stagecoach for the weekend. This was our first experience and I can't express how flippin' crazy fun it was! We are already looking forward to (and planning) for next year. A whole weekend full of awesome friends, alcohol and of course faboulous country music! What topped off the last night of our stay was when Carrie Underwood was singing a song about God and America and our good friend Adam (former military with multiple deployments) gets a breaking news text on his phone that Osama was found and killed. Carrie Underwood having no idea, and the news spreading through the crowd of what had to be 500,000 people......let me tell you.......tears of joy and sorrow. WOW!

Easter egg hunt 2011 - Our family doesn't do Easter like most we know. Instead of searching for eggs filled with candy or hard boiled colored eggs, our girls search for special eggs filled with little treasures. The little treasures are actually symbols the represent a certain part of the Easter story. Then we sit down as a family and read the story. We are hoping to get Madilynn's corn and soy allergy under control in the next 3 months so that the girls can have a few sweets now and then.

Maelynn turns 3!

My brother Chris was finally able to make it over for a visit. He has been deployed and the last I saw him was when he graduated from boot camp about 6 years ago! It was so great for him to meet his nieces. Great Bee Bop and Mom came down as well and we all spent the day catching up. I already miss my bro!
Great Bee Bop and my Mom just came down for another visit last weekend and the girls and I made a special treat for Great Bee Bop. His favorite pie: Lemon meringue. It was the first time I made it for the girls. Although he raved about it, the girls not so much. The funny moment was when Madilynn gagged on the texture of the meringue. We had a wonderful time and Derek even managed to get Great Bee Bop up to play a couple rounds of Boccie Ball when Derek wasn't busy chasing their dog Belle around with his RC car. I don't think Great Bee Bop has laughed that hard in awhile.

"What did uncle Chris do to my hair?"

Love this picture!

Learning how to separate eggs for lemon meringue

Feeding Great Bee Bop grapes.

Playing Boccie Ball at 89. And he won!

Silly Sisters

Future Wilson Phillips band?

Kitty Kuddles

rAnDoMnEsS - Digging for gophers in a dress

The cool way to go down a slide! This is how we keep our Chiropractor in business.

See what the cat dragged in.......again.

One of my best friends, Sommer (whom I have known since 2nd gradeish) and her wonderful Husband Corey asked me to be a part of their first baby's birth as a Doula. I was so honored and blessed to witness baby Wyatt enter this world on February 24th and both Mom and Dad did amazing. Our family is excited to be a part of their lives and to watch Wyatt grow.

Just born! We love this sweet angel.

Right before Wyatt peed all over Derek. LOL!!

Mama Love

We needed some family pictures done and found another amazing photographer, Angela Powell who captured these PRICELESS MOMENTS for us.

Stay tuned for some exciting updates!

Family photos 2-2011

2011-03-22T20:21:00.000-07:00

*Click on the pictures to view a larger version.

Rejoice with your family in the beautiful land of life! - Albert Einstein

Cousins are those childhood playmates who grow up to be forever friends. - Anonymous

In the cookies of life, sisters are the chocolate chips. - Author Unknown

The happiest moments of my life have been the few which I have passed at home in the bosom of my family. - Thomas Jefferson

Our daughters are the most precious of our treasures, the dearest possessions of our homes and the objects of our most watchful love. - Margaret E. Sangster

THE DIAGNOSIS!

2011-03-07T17:47:00.001-08:00

Most of you know the journey we have had since Maelynn's reaction to the MMR vaccine. Here is a recap for those who may not:

Great sleeper, eater and very happy, giggly baby until 15 month MMR vaccine. After the vaccine Maelynn cried constantly, no longer slept through the night. Lost appetite for 2 weeks. Very lethargic and glazed over eyes for 2 weeks. Feverish. Pain at injection site. She broke out into hives that covered her entire body. Very cranky. Took her in and doctor said it was just a reaction to a antibiotic she had been taking however she had been on the antibiotic for over a week before the rash appeared. Doctor finally agreed it was the measles portion of the MMR. Her reaction was indicative of measles. Started taking Maelynn in to see a Chiropractor and helping her body to detox by homeopathic remedies. She sees a Chiropractor 3 times per week, eats a mostly organic whole foods diet and will no longer receive another vaccine. I prayed that her little body would be completely healed from the MMR vaccine but as time went on I noticed some signs that concerned me. I tried ignoring them as being “normal toddler behavior.” I began researching into lasting effects and came across SPD (Sensory Processing Disorder). The more I looked into it the more my eyes were opened. Below are the signs Maelynn exhibits at almost 3 years old.

Won’t wear socks
Fights shoes
Doesn’t like jeans
Doesn’t like tags
Fights car seat belts (too tight)
Doesn’t like getting hair wet/washed (screams)
Water is too cold or too hot (screams)
Despite routine has (screaming) tantrums EVERY day at nap and bedtime since 15 months old
Doesn’t like hair brushed (hurts) or nails clipped (to antsy)
Chews, licks anything she can put in her mouth
Sucks thumb whenever nervous
Constantly moving
Loves jumping and spinning
Walks on tip-toes (not 100% of the time)
Very cuddly & affectionate
Wants to rub our ears to calm herself down
Loves to be massaged
Eyes wander when trying to talk to her
Short attention span
Extreamly sensitive to light
Gets very anxious at loud sounds (terrified of trash truck up until 6 months ago)
Gets anxious if other children come near her or try to take a toy
Wakes in the middle of the night screaming
Restless sleeper (flares arms and legs all night or wake screaming through the night)
Food is never served right (tantrums because not the right fork or spoon, not on the plate right, not the right cup etc.)
Hard to please
Noticeable change in pupil dilation, breathing and heart rate when she is anxious (like constant flight or fight mode)
Soothed by close face contact and whispering
Used to be a great eater but becoming more picky

I'm sure there are a few more but these are the main ones that disrupt her activities of daily living.

After going back and forth between how we should approach healing her we decided on Biocytonics. Here is what happened:

It still feels so surreal. Just hours ago we watched Maelynn’s tiny drop of blood from her finger become (to us) a never before seen world of red blood cells, white blood cells and a host of things I‘ll mention later.

I was pretty nervous about the appointment because I had the possibility of mercury toxicity in my mind. The somewhat autistic symptoms she was showing started after her negative reaction to the MMR vaccine 20 months ago. So the possibility of mercury toxicity was possible. Maelynn was showing some signs of nervousness also so I had to keep my cool. Dr. Hugh was amazing! Very caring and easy to talk with. He respectfully asked that we do not give him any history on Maelynn before he could look at her blood. Maelynn didn’t take the small prick to her finger well and instantly withdrew for the remainder of the appointment. Derek and I sat amazed as Dr. Hugh brought the microscope into focus and clear as day, before our eyes, we were looking at the most amazing, intricate make-up of her cells. Dr. Hugh’s first response was how she was a very stressed little girl. Instead of free floating red blood cells, almost all of her cells were tightly glued together in long strands. This is a sign of inflammation. Dr. Hugh also pointed out tiny food particles that were floating throughout the blood stream and told us she has serious stomach issues. In fact she complains of tummy pain after eating anything. He explained that she has a leaky-gut and that if we had continued to ignore the symptoms and continued believing the pediatrician’s impression that she was just looking for attention, then by age 15 Maelynn would have full blown diverticulitis.

He showed that she is in fact lactose intolerant. Dr. Hugh also pointed out a host of nasty parasites with tails that are swimming around reeking havoc on her immune system. Parasites most commonly associated with contaminated water. He also pointed out some fungus. No mercury. Praise Jesus!

So you may be wondering how parasites and fungus negatively affect the body.

Parasites release toxic wastes. These wastes are actually their feces and urine. Parasite urine is practically pure ammonia. Parasite wastes stress the kidneys, liver and immune system.

According to the World Health Organization, 3.5 billion people suffer from some type of parasitic infection. Not all of these people live in third world countries; many in the developed world have any number of parasitic infections.

Many parasites affect the nervous system and give rise to sleep disorders, such as insomnia. In children, hyperactivity is common, but adults may have symptoms ranging from depression to anxiety. Some parasites affect the brain and memory. In short, the part of the body affected depends on where the parasites have invaded: blood, intestines, liver, pancreas, kidneys, brain, etc. To make infection even more difficult to determine, add to this scenario the fact that many, if not most, parasites migrate so the symptoms could change depending on where the parasites are at any given time

Skin sensitivity is also common: rashes, eczema-like conditions, and even serious eruptions.

Once a condition has moved from acute to chronic, there may be alternating periods of constipation and diarrhea, abdominal distention and bloating, intestinal cramping followed by burning sensations and the sudden urge to eliminate. Generally, there is malabsorption of nutrients, especially fatty foods. Irritable bowel syndrome, blood sugar fluctuations, sudden food cravings, and extreme emaciation or overweight are all possible symptoms .

Fungus:
This is a great place to learn about fungus and yeast

Dr. Hugh only needed 30 minutes to tell us all of this and to reassure us that we will be able to get rid of all of these things including most if not all of the sensory disorder symptoms Maelynn is exhibiting.

So what is the prescription? Antibiotics? Oral fungal treatments? Some other pharmaceutical medicine with a host of side effects and dangers?

Black walnut hull/wormwood tincture, aloe vera juice and colostrum capsules. All natural and all proven safe and effective. No prescription needed.

So what did my blood reveal?
Sting ray looking parasites, candida, crystals that show risk of plaque in the blood, signs of an overloaded liver, leaky gut, low immune system, B12 deficiency, toxoplasma gandii, and a few others I forgot. The most amazing news and blessing: I do not have Lyme’s disease and in fact do not even have Fibromyalgia! All of the “Fibro” symptoms are from the junk in my blood that can be cured...completely!

My prescription: Aloe vera juice, molybdenum and Paraclear. All natural.

Dr. Hugh says that the two of us should be remarkably better three months from now. We plan on having Derek, Madisyn and Madilynn checked as well. We are so blessed God put us on this path to heath and that we didn’t fall prey to pharmaceuticals before finding the underlying causes. I’m so overwhelmed with joy knowing I don’t have to live in chronic pain for the rest of my life. I’m excited to watch and feel our bodies recover and heal completely...naturally.

Dr. Hugh Smith specializes in Vital Hematology. He does a live blood analysis which is also called Biocytonics. Dr. Hugh is well known throughout San Diego for the awesome work he does. Many Doctors send their patients to him for blood work. You can read all about him here. Be sure to check out his website for more information on Biocytonics and read the testimonials.

Stay tuned for updates on our road to recovery!

Pictures

2011-01-28T12:19:00.000-08:00

Sweet Monkey and her Diego

Crazy hair day at Madisyn's school!

Garden-girls

Pala Casino and Palomar Observatory getaway

Baby kisses

Random couple shots

Madilynn - 17 months old

2011-01-18T19:53:00.000-08:00

Our little snoopy! At 17 months old she amazes us everyday with new words to add to her growing sentences. Just the other day she said, "Mom! I wanna bite you!" I was like, "What?! You want to bite me?!" She says, "Yep!" Okay so I'm going to brag a little. That to me is awesome for 17 months!

Madilynn loves the outdoors. I mean.......LOVES! She is so content to find bugs and dirt to chew on. Yes......bugs to chew. A few months ago she had escargo a'la raw for a snack. YUM! Her and her "sissy monkey" as she calls her, will spend all day out in the backyard digging in the dirt or jumping on the trampoline. Most days I catch a glimpse of a butt naked baby running through the grass in search for a cat's tail to pull. I love looking into her beautiful, clear blue eyes when she tells me her stories and can't get enough of her fishy-lip kisses. She never misses a chance to tell us "thank you" for any food we give her and she loves her some food! Rarely is a plate not cleaned by her.

I love that Derek and I can still find joy in all these developmental milestones three kiddos later.

Maelynn - 2 years and 8 months old

2011-01-18T19:29:00.000-08:00

Oh this monkey-dee-dee! She is quite the character! In the last few months she has acquired the role of house clown. Always doing or saying something with the total intention of making us laugh. It is almost impossible not to laugh at her quirky sayings and silly faces. Especially with the way she wrinkles up her nose and shows off her adorable dimples! She has the biggest heart a little girl could have and showers me with "I love you Mama" and little kisses throughout the day. Maelynn is so full of questions and won't stop asking until you give her a full explanation. She is so gloriously exhausting and so wonderfully special.

Maelynn is doing so well developmentally. She is counting to 15 and knows her ABC's. She can label colors. We do notice some things that we believe are lasting symptoms from her MMR vaccine 17 months ago. She does still mouth on everything. Constantly licking or biting on anything she can put into her mouth including her fingers. She tends to be repetitive with some things she does as well and she is still highly sensitive to temperatures. Along with all of this she is the sweetest little love ever! Always up for a cuddle so she can rub YOUR ear and suck her thumb.

Madisyn - 8.5 years old

2011-01-18T12:23:00.000-08:00

Our little drama queen has hit the stage in her first ever theater production. She plays a role in the play, "Once upon a mattress" otherwise known as the Princess and the Pea. She has been working hard the past few months and is enjoying it. We plan on enrolling her in CYT (nationally known as Christian Youth Theater) for a 10 week course to help expand her theater knowledge. Madisyn has been doing well in school and is working very hard at being the highest Accelerator Reader in her class. Her math skills continuously outsmart mine.

Madisyn has her first crush. She let us know recently that she "likes" a boy in her class named Tyler. When we asked her why she "likes" this Tyler she responded with, "Cause he is nice like Daddy." Lucky for Tyer, I help in the class every other Friday. I've got my eye on Tyler!

Holiday fun and blessings

2010-12-14T14:11:00.000-08:00

A visit with Great Bee Bop

Me and my cousin Daniel. Been 15 years since we've seen each other!

The first time hanging Christmas lights outside (and doing a mighty fine job of it!) ;-)

A surprise dinner for three very special couples that have blessed us and our marriage. Complete with personal chef and delicious 3 course gourmet meal.

Our first gingerbread house party at our buddy Kevin's

Madilynn 15 months

2010-12-14T13:55:00.000-08:00

Sweet, strong, determined, happy, animated, loving, constant moving, amazing eater, okay sleeper, loves her "blanky" and "night night" (pacifier), mischievous, smart and very healthy. Our precious Snoopy.

Life is Grand!

2010-12-14T10:37:00.000-08:00

My friend Kathy posted a link for The Polar Express on her Facebook page about 5 months ago. She mentioned that she had booked her seats for her family and asked if anyone wanted to join them. Once Derek and I checked out the link we knew we had to bring the girls on this trip. That commenced the five month planning of a trip to the Grand Canyon. I was a bit nervous about taking this adventure since the drive was about 9 hours long. We had originally decided to take the van and make two overnight stops along the way so the kids (and I) wouldn't get burnt out. God, however, had other plans for us. He made an RV available through our Chiropractor friend, Dr. Matt. Dr. Matt let us borrow his RV for the trip and it was a huge blessing! We didn't grasp the full blessing of it until the 20th time the kids had to pee on the drive there! Could you imagine all the stops we would have had to make?! That for sure would have add an extra hour to our trip......at least!

We left Thursday morning (December 2nd) and were on the road by 9:30am. I was able to make lunch, change diapers, prepare snacks, set up beds for naps, play movies all while en route. Derek had been driving for about 6 hours when we made a last minute decision to stop overnight in Vegas to see my family. We had a wonderful visit with them despite it's short duration and we later enjoyed the chocolate cream pie my dad bought us as a sweet reminder of our visit because as he said, "You HAVE to have a pie for the road in an RV. It's not like you can eat a pie in a car!" LOL.

We took my sister Hannah and her boyfriend to see the Hoover Dam before heading out Friday morning for Williams Arizona. The Hoover Dam was quite an experience. Possibly the most interesting being the very thorough security check they did on the RV.

The drive to Williams was uneventful. The girls played quietly for the most part and the baby napped very well. Once we arrived in Williams we checked out the Visitor Center to book an RV site for the next two nights. Derek and I had agreed to keep The Polar Express a surprise as long as possible so the girls still had no idea at this point. We enjoyed linner (yes linner) in Williams and got a quick look at where the train station was so that we'd know our bearings Saturday night. We got the girls ready for bed and the beds set-up before driving into the Grand Canyon to an RV site for the night. I'm so glad we decided to bring all of our electric blankets because it was freezing! Sweet Madilynn had a rough night and cried most of it. We had no remedies with us to ease her discomfort but after a few hours she finally crashed. We stayed toasty warm despite the freezing temperatures and the girls actually slept in well. Madilynn woke up with a bloody nose and proceeded to have once for the next 3 days. I think the altitude and dry air contributed. After a simple cereal/granola/yogurt breakfast we headed out to see the Grand Canyon.

WOW! Yep.........GRAND! I think Madisyn and Derek enjoyed it more than all of us. After a few hours of taking in as much as we could, we headed back to Williams to our next RV site where we got the girls ready in their Christmas pajamas since that is part of The Polar Express theme and Derek and I presented them with a wrapped gift. It was The Polar Express book complete with a shiny silver ticket. Madisyn slowly started to catch on and kept a firm grasp of the ticket as we headed out to meet Kathy and her family for dinner before the train ride. Dinner was tasty and it was awesome to catch up with our friends. Then after some skillful re-arranging and cramming, we all piled into their SUV (Thank you Eddie!) and headed to the train station. There were people everywhere! Kids dressed in all sorts of adorable pajamas, excitement, the faint ringing of sleigh bells, men holding lanterns, men and women dressed in white caps and jackets, others with elf ears. It was all very mysterious and I could tell the girls were getting antsy. Maelynn was "train this" and "train that." Madisyn full of questions. We got pictures with Mrs. Claus and pictures with Santa. What a joy for the kids as you can see in their expressions. Finally seated on the train we were able to enjoy the experience. We sang carols, listened to The Polar Express story, ate cookies and drank hot chocolate (that was more like chocolate sludge), and time warped to the North Pole. Then we saw Santa and his elves working away. Santa came aboard and presented each child a silver sleigh bell. The girls were exhausted by the end of it and we were ready for a good nights sleep. The next day was going to be a long drive home. The girls went down for bed quickly and luckily Madilynn slept soundly. Sunday morning we bid the Grand Canyon farewell and headed home but making a quick pit-stop in Bearizona: a wonderful drive-thru animal exhibit that was amazing! We saw bears, wolves, buffalo and deer RIGHT outside the RV. The kids were full of chatter. We arrived home around 7:30pm and the girls were restless for the next 2 hours until they finally passed out. It was a great vacation and I'm so happy things went smoothly. What a blessing it all was.

The start of our journey

Quick stop: Vegas
Mum, Me and Hannah

Hoover Dam

The Grand Canyon

Unwrapping a surprise in Williams Arizona

The must have Santa picture!

All aboard!

Bearizona

Survivor: Lake Morena edition

2010-10-10T20:02:00.000-07:00

We survived our first family camp-out this last weekend! It was somewhat spur of the moment and to celebrate our cousin Brian's birthday. I was very hesitant to take this adventure on and quite honestly I have been able to avoid camping for the last 15+ years so I wasn't exactly 100% open to the idea of doing this with three kids. But with some convincing on cousin Rachel's part and of course the idea of purchasing camp cookware, oh and s'mores. Mmmmmm s'mores. Oh sorry! Where was I?
Oh yes, convincing on Rachel's part.....I finally agreed. So we packed the van full of camping stuff. Once we arrived, setting up camp didn't take long and within minutes the cousins were romping through the dirt, kicking up dust clouds and of course Madilynn was, well......eating it.

Setting up the kids play tent

Yep.....it's about that time! Cooking is so much more fun with a little assistance.

Dirtlicious!

Peek a' boo!

Looks like Madilynn started a trend

"Mini" hike

Posers! (Cousins: Madisyn, Maelynn, Madilynn, Luke & Julie)

Our 1 billion star room for the night

Entertaining themselves

Glow sticks are always fun!

Papa love

Breakfast of champions

So from this experience there are 10 things I have learned:

1. Camping can be fun
2. Don't let Brian keep a knife in his pocket
3. S'more sticks do NOT make good cauterizing tools (refere to #2)
4. Kid's look cute with a layer of dirt and unrecognizable with 5 layers
5. It IS possible to freeze your butt off all night long
6. Guys will edge each other on to do stupid things (refere to #3)
7. Kid's sleep suprisingly well despite loud neighboring campers
8. Camp showers are like ice daggers
9. Apparently bees like meat and even more if you are eating it
10.S'more make the best camp breakfast. Especially the toasted coconut ones.

Just in case you didn't get enough dirty pictures, here are some more from the "Daily Dirt Diggers' Digest."

Silly shots!

2010-10-10T19:50:00.000-07:00

Some favs. If they are doubles from previous blogs it's because I just like them so darn much!

What's crackin?!

Vegas Baby(ies)!

2010-10-10T17:27:00.000-07:00

No....getting a massive (ly painful) tattoo was not the only thing I did in Vegas. The original reason we took a trip to Vegas was to visit my Nana and Dad who have been dealing with some health issues. It was really nice to see them and they seem to be hanging in there so that was good news. Since we were in Vegas for the weekend we decided to make the most of it. We were able to: hang out with some good friends Angela and her boo Bill, have some pool fun at Operes, visit with my sister Hannah and Omere, take the kiddos to the M&M factory and well..................

Pool fun at Operes

Brings new meaning to "Watermelon booty."

Opere BBQing!

A night out with our good friends. Censored photos as to not embarrass our crazy buddies. :-)

Our M&M's at the M&M factory

Being sneaky at Omeres

And mad she got caught

Along the way we took a detour to Calico Ghost Town.

On their way to school!

LOOK! Calico Kitties.

"Come on! Let's ride the train!"

What happens in Vegas....doesn't always stay in Vegas!

2010-09-19T22:50:00.000-07:00

In fact.....I brought a little (actually a lot of) ink home with me. More pictures/story of our weekend trip to Vegas coming soon. Until then, you can cringe at these.

Skin Factory

Before:

After pictures to come as soon as the swelling goes down.

WOW!

2010-09-07T13:26:00.000-07:00

I'm way behind on my blog! So much has happened since my last entry. The most recent news being that we have moved to our first house. Derek and I have lived in condos or apartments since being on our own. Our new home is absolutely gorgeous and everything Derek and I prayed for. The icing: no more loud upstairs neighbors! This move was extremely stressful on everyone. The kids had a hard time going back and forth between homes during the transition but have settled in quickly and are sleeping better than they ever have. We are so blessed to have a yard for the girls, a community pool, in a top rated school district and 2 minutes from our church Mission Hills. Now the fun part....decorating!

Our big little girl turned 8 June 30th. It's hard to believe that 8 years have gone by already. We took her and her friend Jenna to Seaworld for the day. Then her friend Alexis stayed the night. Wanting it to be more special (and a healthier option) I made her a cake this year. I baked an all natural/organic/gluten-free vanilla cake. Sounds pretty complicated and yuck but it came out really tasty! I even topped it off with sparkler candles I had left over from my days in France. They practically exploded all over the place! Despite the small burns on my hands it made for a sight and was priceless to see Madisyn's eyes light up.

It has been really nice to take the girls places and enjoy each other away from the daily stresses. Especially now that the baby is a bit older and a little less demanding. One of our many trip was to Downtown Disney for the day. This day came with many fun and not so fun surprises. The girls really enjoyed lunch at the Rainforest Cafe and looking in all the fun stores. The not so fun was the packed train leaving Derek to sit on the floor with the girls the whole trip and then a sickly possum step onto the train tracks right in front of our very eyes leaving behind a not to pretty sight. Luckily we shielded Madisyn's eyes just in time. The whole trip was spur of the moment and we hope to do it again. Of course without the possum part.

Sassy-face!

Madisyn as the Mad Hatter

Tuckered out tots

Our very sleepy train ride home

I recently found an old friend of mine from school on Facebook. Angela and I go way back and I was excited to get together after so many years. We decided to plan a weekend trip to Knott’s Berry Farm since our girls had never been. I booked a room at the Knott’s Resort Hotel. The day at the park was awesome and reuniting with Angela and her wonderful boyfriend Bill was really nice. We found it adorable to be able to get pictures of snoopy (Madilynn) with Snoopy and you should have seen how huge her eyeballs got when she turned around at breakfast to see a giant Snoopy trying to sniff her pancakes!
Madisyn rode her very first big roller coaster and was so brave. Braver than me because there was no way I would get on the coaster. Maelynn jumped on an old mining cart and pushed away like a pro. It was too cute. The day was long and fun-filled. Unfortunately when we finally retired we found that the room was horrific! It had mold and mildew everywhere and at almost 1:00 in the morning there wasn’t much we could do. We made a formal complaint and they discounted the room quite a bit but it didn’t make up for being the worst room we had ever stayed in! Before we headed home we decided to make a quick trip to Big Bear to see Great Bee Bop and Mom. I was anxious to get the sewing machine that they were passing down to me. It had been my Mom and Grandma's Kenmore machine. This thing is awesome! It's in perfect condition and over 25 years old. I had it serviced and it purrs. I even took a sewing class to learn a little about the machine since I'm a beginner. I'm really excited to get my sewing corner set up in the man cave so I can finish these pillowcase dresses my friend Jenny and I have started.

Visiting the hall of Snoopy

After the first and only coaster I rode at the park that day (barf).

Go Maelynn go!

SNOOPY!

My newest addition

On the way down from Big Bear we noticed the stream was very busy with swimmers. It was a hot day and the girls needed a little break from all the driving we had been doing. It was a perfect opportunity to give them their first mountain stream experience. They loved it! Maelynn jumped in and within minutes had stripped all her clothes off. It was really beautiful to be so in touch with nature and to see the girls enjoy God's beautiful creations.

4th of July was low-key. After Derek singeing all of the hair on his face and forearms by lighting the BBQ and Maelynn trying to sneak an entire pack of hotdog buns, we walked about a mile to the park to watch the fireworks. Both babies cried until Madilynn finally fell asleep in Uncle Mark's (or as Maelynn says: Uncle Markers) arms. Then we fought the crowds on our entire walk back home.

Little Madilynn turned one! We thought it would be cute for her and her cousin Brenya to have a birthday party together since they are only 4 days apart in age. Well it was adorable! Both Madilynn and Brenya destroyed 1 of their 2 cakes and Madilynn was even feeding Brenya pieces. Both of the birthday girls looked beautiful in their birthday outfits and everyone had a good time. It's hard to believe a year has gone by already.

Birthday invitation I made

Beautiful birthday girls

Face painting

Beautiful cousin Katie

Cake time!

Having to hold the girls back while we sang "Happy Birthday."

"Mmmm...what's this delish delight?! Here cousin....have some!"

Snuggles for Auntie Kelly

Madisyn and cousin Joshua (only 1 month apart in age)

Pressy time! Loving the fairy wand.

Derek and I recently celebrated our 7th wedding anniversary. We ended up celebrating it over a month late due to Madilynn's birthday party and other things that had to be done for our recent move. I searched weeks for a place to go and finally settled on the Bed & Breakfast Inn at La Jolla. It was a perfect choice! The room was quiet and quaint. Our weekend away was filled with peaceful naps, great food and meaningful conversation. It was our first weekend away without kids or being pregnant in over 5 years and it was well overdue.

I turned 29 on September 1st. I was not looking forward to this and I was honestly hoping the day would just pass forgotten. I have never really enjoyed celebrating my birthday. Well, I was very surprised by a wonderful friend Lisa from church. She went out of her way to bring our family an amazing home-cooked dinner complete with birthday cake, card and flowers from her garden. It was such a heartwarming gesture and turned out to be a life saver because we enjoyed an impromptu first dinner in the new place picnic style on the floor having no clue until later that night that the power to the old place had been shut off a few days too early. Lisa has no idea that she saved the night and our sanity as well! Of course I can't go without bragging a bit about the awesome gift Derek and the girls got me for my birthday. A membership to Massage Envy (sigh). So well needed after this crazy move!

Our new house comes with an amazing and huge backyard for the kids to play in. With the backyard comes a lot of dirt. The babies have a blast playing in all of the dirt and by the end of the day they are covered head to toe. We still haven’t had a chance to purchase a handheld shower nozzle which is almost necessary to shower two babies. So instead of fight these messy babies in the shower by myself I decided it was backyard shower time. Since the yard is private I had no worries about stripping them down. The cousins were over visiting as well and they had to get in on the fun. There was 4 naked kiddos running through the water hose. They had a blast and it made for a great photo opportunity. One of which will definitely be for the high school year books one day as well (MUAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA).

I went back and forth whether to post this picture because of it being naked babies, but the picture doesn't show too much and I personally think there is nothing funnier than being mooned by three babies!

SNAPSHOTS
Cousins:

Madisyn's first Father-Daughter dance:

Opa and Grandma Beverly:

The family

Sisters:

Big sissy helping to soothe a cranky snoopy in the Ergo carrier.

We are so thankful for all of our wonderful friends who went out of their way to help with this move and all the prayers sent our way. We are excited to see what the next year will bring us. We will be transforming the yard into an amazing (hopefully) vegetable garden. YUM!

Stay tuned.....

2010-06-27T13:20:00.000-07:00

This past weekend Derek and Madisyn went on a church camping trip to Ramona. I didn't think the babies would have much fun at this age so I had planned to stay home until my friend Jacque invited me up to her place to visit. I figured, "what the heck!" It would give me a great opportunity to see her and Teagan and also have a quick visit with Great Bee-Bop and Mom. So I took the babies up Friday night. Our visit was brief (due to cranky Madilynn not sleeping well outside her own bed) but nice. It also made for some good photo opportunities. Recent news: Madilynn took her first steps on Father's Day. It totally made up for the fact both Madisyn and I were really sick with Strep throat. YUCK!
Madisyn started drama club and she loves it! She lights up when she tells us about it and her first performance was adorable. Maelynn is totally in the potty-talk phase. It's hard not to find it hilarious. The other day I took her diaper off and she took off running butt naked around the house proclaiming at the top of her lungs, "I farted! (giggle) I farted!" I'm glad our housekeeper has a sense of humor. That's about it for the Berg bunch! We are hoping to take Madisyn to Seaworld for her birthday which is in only 3 days! Our big girl is turning 8!

2010-05-25T10:37:00.000-07:00

Ahhhh...........Mexico!

What more can I say? Between lazy days, all-you-can eat everything, the best ice cream and frozen yogurt, awesome tours of Mazatlan/Puerto Vallarta/Cabo San Lucas, the best staff serving us in the dinning-room, Maelynn meeting a new little friend and chasing a chicken across the road..............The cruise WAS AWESOME!

I'm already looking forward to next years vacation. Hmm, where will we go next time?

SLIDE SHOW (CLICK HERE)

Quick updates: Madilynn's second tooth made it's appearance today. Maelynn is now talking in full sentences. I tried my hand at canning for the very first time. My friend Jenny and I gathered all the needed supplies and canned strawberry jam, strawberry syrup, cherries in very light syrup and cherry pie filling. YUM!
We are going to try to make canning a regular thing on Mondays. Next week: Minestrone and zucchini soup. Applesauce and apple pie filling.

RANDOMNESS
Story-time with sissy Bug

Next super star?

Look who dressed herself!

Heaven Sent Baby Catcher

2010-05-15T00:31:00.000-07:00

Many of you followed our family as we navigated the ups and downs of our last two pregnancies. We fought hard to heal from our first traumatizing birth. God placed Dr. Robert Biter in our lives and in doing so, Dr. Biter was able to assist us in having our last two natural, healing births. Something no other Doctor said would be possible. Dr. Biter never once had any doubt in my body's ability to do what was completely natural. He supported us every step of the way and always found a way to cheer me up when both times I went to 42 weeks and was exhausted. He reassured me that everything would be fine. He is the most compassionate OBGYN I have ever met. So when I first heard that Scripps Encinitas Hospital revoked his privileges I immediately felt compelled to show my support for Dr. Biter.

Because the info on the matter is too lengthy to type, you can read about it on the following links:

North County Times

San Diego News Network

10News.com

Sign On San Diego

I was interviewed and asked: "What do you hope the outcome of this is?" and my response, "I'm here to show this amazing Doctor support. I hope he has wonderful success with his Birth Center and wherever he goes, and that God brings him peace and comfort."

We are unable to know the details of why this has happened. We can only speculate. But we feel so blessed to have had him as our Doctor. So in show of our support I donned us all in green (Biter's favorite color) and headed out with a sign made by our good friends at Escondido Reprographics and a gorgeous sign specially made by our talented good friend Amy Kachinsky. Even our van is decorated! Our friend Elizabeth Miller and her wonderful family came with me to support us and all the other women who couldn't make it. The mood and excitement was amazing! Maelynn even got in on the action by waving a sign. It brought tears to my eyes to see the out-pour of love and support for this amazing man. Please pray for this situation to resolve quickly and peacefully. Below is some info on Dr. Biter for those who do not know him personally. If you feel pulled to rally for him, a rally will take place every morning outside Scripps Encinitas Hospital until this issue is resolved.

Robert Biter's Bio

Bring Biter Back!

10 News Leadership Award

Best of 2010 - Best Medical Practitioner

Scripps Encinitas

In case you have wondered: Yes the cruise was amazing! The whole family had a wonderful time. I will post pictures soon. Promise.

God Bless

More Than A Mother

2010-05-01T23:11:00.000-07:00

A sweet poem for Moms!

When God set the world in place, when He hung the stars up in space,
when He made the land and the sea, then He made you and me.

He sat back and saw all that was good.
He saw things to be as they should.

Just one more blessing He had in store;
He created a mother, but whatever for?

He knew a mother would have a special place, to shine His reflection on her child's face.

A mother will walk the extra mile just to see her children smile.
She'll work her fingers to the bone to make a house into a home.
A mother is there to teach and guide, a mother will stay right by your side.
She'll be there through your pain and strife; she'll stay constant in your life.
A mother will lend a helping hand until you have the strength to stand.
She'll pick you up when you are down; when you need a friend she'll stick around.
A mother is one who listens well, will keep her word, will never tell.
A mother never pokes or pries but stands quietly by your side.
Giving you the strength you need; encouraging you to succeed.
A mother is one who can be strong, when you need someone to lean on.

You're more than a mother to me; a reflection of Him in your face I see, a love that knows no boundaries.

I'm glad that you chose to be all this and more to me.
You share a love that knows no end, you're more than my mother, you are my friend.

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY TO ALL THE BEAUTIFUL, WONDERFUL, STRONG AND AMAZING MOMS I KNOW!

"It's a good life.......It's a crazy, happy life!"

2010-04-25T09:31:00.000-07:00

The past two weeks have been busy busy! The many sleepless nights preceding emerging teeth.....on both babies' part. Maelynn getting in the last of her two year molars and little Madilynn getting her very first bottom tooth last Friday the 16th!

Child-proofing mode in full force since Madilynn is now pulling herself up to stand, even daringly letting go for a split-second.

All the prep work involved in getting Derek's booth ready for the Del Mar Fairgrounds Home Show. Designing marketing materials, banners, creative ways to display his work and then setting up. Which I might add was a SUCCESS! Thank you Jesus.

Organizing Maelynn's 2nd birthday party while Derek was manning his booth at the Home Show, all made for a very VERY busy weekend. Thank goodness Rachel was here to help or I wouldn't have been able to get it all done!

This next week will be spent packing and getting everything ready for our cruise. Printing all the documents for six travelers including luggage tags and packing for two little ones: diapers, wipes, baby food, bottled water for bottles, formula, extra clothes, stroller....yes I know this doesn't matter to anyone else, I'm just making my list of things now. Save me a step. It's insane the amount of things our family needs for just a weekend away, but a whole week?! Good thing the liner allows for 2 suitcases per person. That means just our group will be dragging along 12 suitcases plus a double stroller! We are all excited though and it will be a well needed vacation away from cell phones and computers. And for a little hopeful thinking, maybe the boat will lull the babies into deep slumber for restful mornings of sleeping in. (sigh)

Here are some photos of what our little family has been up to.

Family fun at Belmont park and Mrs. Burton's Tea house in Balboa Park

Mrs. Burton Herself

Derek's Home Show Booth

Thank you to all our family and friends who celebrated with us and helped make Maelynn's 2nd birthday a wonderful memory!

Waiting for guests to show up
>

Our next stop: Mexico! "Es la buena vida.....Es una vida feliz, loca!"

2010-03-30T20:46:00.000-07:00

Well, we did it! The time had come. Two years of waiting for the "opportunity."

The "opportunity" being: cutting Maelynn's hair.

It has taken that sweet monkey 24 months to grow enough platinum blond bangs to get in her eyes. After begging Derek, which was like pulling teeth, I got a pair of scissors, plastic bowl to catch the little strands and my inner courage needed to ward off the horrible thoughts that I might botch my babies 1st haircut. Some of you are probably wondering why I didn't take her to a professional. Honestly, I couldn't bring myself to pay even $10 to have her bangs trimmed.

So, up I plopped Maelynn on the bathroom counter and asked Derek to start taking pictures. Maelynn fussed at first and said "owee" when she saw the scissors come toward her face but she calmed down when she watched the first few strands of hair fall into the plastic bowl. Maybe she sat still out of fear or maybe fascination, either way....she sat still. The whole thing took about 5 minutes total and she was proud to show off her new 'do.

Family photos by Allie Lindsey

2010-03-29T16:24:00.000-07:00

Allie Lindsey Photography

"To plant a seed is gratifying, but a gift to see it grow."

2010-03-29T10:15:00.000-07:00

Do you ever get fascinated when you learn new things about people you know? Good things about people? I do! Especially when it has to do with Derek. Marriage is hard work right? We all to often get so caught up in the daily grind. Work, kids, school and more work. Our relationships suffer greatly from this decades pressure to do it all. We are supposed to stay home, go to work, raise perfect kids, cook healthy food, keep a clean house, be good spouses. We have set ourselves up for failure in an effort to prove that we can do it all because that is what the model family "is supposed to do." So while we (or maybe just me) are busy trying to meet society's standards, our relationships are failing. NO! Mine and Derek's marriage is not failing. I'm speaking in terms of all relationships (marriages, friendships, church and children).

Somewhere in the business of raising our three girls, I lost what my purpose was. I have become too caught up in polishing the exterior of our family that we are rusting inside. Every day is the same thing, wake up, feed kids, change kids, naps, clean house, fed kids, change kids, clean house, some laundry in there, go to bed, wake up and start over. Nothing personal about that! Those things really don't take any emotion. In fact, you could program a new age robot to do the same things and quite frankly, I feel like one. By the time Derek comes home from work I'm exhausted. Yes, physically but mainly emotionally. I don't have anything left to give him at the end of the day. Something had to change! Yesterday our church Elders and Pastor prayed over me and our marriage. It was a wonderful experience. I came away with new hope and energy. I also came away more confident in our future plans and dreams.

I'm a country girl inside. I have always dreamed of raising a farm on land with a little river running through it. Yes....white picket fence and all. I've never really felt at home in the city. The hustle and bustle makes me nervous. The freeways and crowds cause me anxiety. Over the years I (along with many) have built-up a tolerance to the stresses of it all but in a negative way. My recent diagnosis of chronic-stress just confirms it. We don't need an expert to tell us that the majority of the city living population eats a huge serving of daily stress. Not to mention all the chemical factors. It's any wonder obesity, depression and cancer are at an all time high. Now even our teens and babies are "depressed!" Insanity. I'm not stating that those who live in the country are stress-free, but would someone like to argue that being self-sufficient and living basic is awful? Anyone?

Over the last year Derek and I have taken an active approach to reducing the amount of chemical stress on our family. Since it is not currently feasible to move to the country (right now), we think some basic steps to better health would be to "go back to the basics." I have learned to make our own natural laundry and dishwasher soap as well as shampoo and household cleaners. Yes, all natural (our Grandmas and Great-grandmas were on to something!) and ALL CHEAP. Derek loves cheap. LOL. We have removed ALL toxic things: items that if ingested by the children would pose health problems. This includes over-the-counter medicines as well as cleaning and body products. Extreme?

"So what happens if you come down with a cold or headache?" You ask.

We teach trust in our bodies and God to bring us healing. Now, how can that possibly be a negative thing to teach the children? Yes, we will seek modern medicine IF absolutely necessary and all other natural approaches have been exhausted because we do believe modern medicine has a place, just not first place. Our family practices preventive health by regular Chiropractic adjustments to keep the body functioning at it's best so that illness are avoided or healed quickly by a well functioning body. We eat organic when possible (yes expensive, but worth the investment) and we avoid processed foods. Having kids makes it impossible to avoid ALL processed foods (mainly sugars given by other people) but we make an effort at home. We are slowly removing plastics (food storage containers and cups) as well as plastic wraps from our home. These items should never be heated up but are marketed for that purpose. Soda is rarely seen in our home. We cloth diaper as much as possible and I have been slowly switching to using all cloth for cleaning purposes instead of paper towels.
These are just some small steps that make us feel good. Sound like a lot of work? Actually it has been quite easy and quite pleasant. I'm teaching the girls how to make use of basic, safe and natural items while using money management and creativeness. It is very rewarding.

So on a recent date night out with Derek, I started to talk to him about my dreams and hopes one day to buy some land and start a farm. He has heard this talk from me many times but the reality of it being possible seemed so distant if not impossible. This time however, he matched my enthusiasm by going into detail about the self-sufficient home we could build and the possibility of buying some land in Canada. It was one of those wonderful moments that I learned something new about Derek. This man I thought after 9 years I had known everything there was to know about.
He shares my dream.
The next hour we talked about the cows, goats, chickens and ducks we would have. How we would have the option to cook over a fire stove. We would have a greenhouse with fresh organic veggies and fruit trees. We would teach the girls to farm and live simple. Our days would be spent together around the farm instead of in the car or in front of the television. Our bills would be minimal which would leave more time for the family. We would learn to make our own food using fresh ingredients which will expand our creative side as well as our appreciation for the wonderful, simple things God has provided us. Still a dream yes, but a future goal more so. A five year plan. So in the meantime we will continue to find ways to wean ourselves off the government and society's views on what a typical family is supposed to be. I've always been a bit of a rebel. Guess some things never change.

Equation:

Self-sufficiency
+ Independence from the government
__________________________________
= less work
x more family time
+ enjoying the simple things
______________________________________________________
= less stress, illness, depression and happier families

Crazy am I?

The many faces of Madilynn Berg!

2010-02-28T19:21:00.000-08:00

"Isn't it ironic...............don't you think?"

2010-02-27T10:46:00.000-08:00

Little Madilynn is 7 months old now and despite already having two other wonderful children, we are still blind-sided by the frequent night wakings she does. We have tried all types of recommendations from co-sleeping, switching her to formula at night, adding cereal to the bottles, trying a pacifier,, rolling her on her tummy when she wakes up, feeding her oatmeal before bed, you name it!

Because I am still nursing during the day, we have only been giving her 4 ounces in a bottle at night since breastfed babies tend to eat smaller more frequent meals. We didn't want to stuff her belly and risk her spitting most of it up. Derek and I decided yesterday that she is probably ready for larger bottles and that we should try 6 ounces. I went out, bought some larger bottles and did two trial runs during the day to see how her tummy would do. She finished off both bottles and didn't spit up. YAY! So we prepared two 6 ounce bottles, hoping she would only wake once instead of twice, but being prepared just in case. Well, she still woke twice last night and when we got up this morning we found that both bottles ironically had exactly 2 ounces left in each. How does that happen?!

Recent photos

2010-02-23T12:45:00.000-08:00

Madisyn, Maelynn & Madilynn

Maelynn, Madisyn & Ben Hughes

1st Father-Daughter dance

PlayTown

Madilynn & cousin Brenya Boggs

Maelynn & Madilynn

Bedtime story-time

Are you sitting?

2010-02-10T21:08:00.000-08:00

Pull up a chair, no.....grab yourself a snack, drink and toilet break first. My goal: to keep you reading what is about to be a very long update. Our state of "just surviving" may finally be over.

Christmas and New Years were very low key this year. We hoped to make a big deal about it, being Madilynn's first, but the childrens' rest was priority since lack of sleep had consumed us all. So midnight fireworks were watched from our porch while the kiddos slept. We did take the girls all dressed in their Christmas best to read Christmas stories to the elderly at a retirement center. We also did a quick drive through Candy Cane Lane to see the beautiful Christmas light displays from the warmth of the van while all of us sipped on our own Starbucks drinks. Hot Coco for Madisyn and Maelynn and decaf pumpkin spice lattes with extra whip for Derek and me.
We were pleasantly surprised by a wonderful visit from my Dad and sister Hannah. They stayed the night playing the Wii system they brought us. I admit, I have taken a liking to fishing. I might be even more into it if the darn thing wasn't so dangerous. No matter all the warnings and rules, we still have had a remote chucked at the TV screen and Madisyn receive a pretty hard punch to the eye. All in the game of fun though. LOL. We also enjoyed a wonderful Christmas visit with Derek's aunt Kelly and uncle Will along with their family.
The girls greeted us Christmas morning with beautiful smiles and excited giggles as they opened their gifts. Madilynn even got in on the fun, despite her bad cold, by chewing on the Praise Baby movie Santa brought her.

Our family: Both Derek and I have recently had new additions to our family. My cousin Evan and his bride Amber welcomed Penelope a couple months ago. Derek's cousin Kevin and his bride Anabelle welcomed Katherine a little over a month ago.
Both my Dad and my Grandmother Nana just underwent pretty difficult surgeries. My Dad's on his back and my Nana's to remove a cancerous mass on her lung. Both surgeries came with complications and will require significant recovery time. Dad seems in good spirits while resting at home but my Nana is having some set-backs as she currently recovers in the ICU. Prayers are welcomed.
I have recently been blessed with renewed friendships in the family and have enjoyed spending time with Derek's sisters Rachel and Jeni as well as having the cousins: Madisyn, Maelynn, Madilynn, Sarah and Brenya spend time together. It seems that both Maelynn and Sarah have strong personalities and will pick on each other until one gives. And still they enjoy playing together.

Derek: Things became so stressful after Madilynn came home from the hospital. Derek was not able to get much work done with the constant background noise and every time he left for an appointment or came out of the office, Maelynn would have a melt-down because she wanted Derek to hold her. The melt-downs became more frequent (8 times a day) and my stress level was through the roof. During an especially hard break-down I told Derek he needed to find an office outside the home. God knew and provided him an office quickly and there are no more melt-downs, well.....not as many anyway. :-)
Thank goodness! He is able to get work done uninterrupted now and I can finally go about my daily routine at home.

Amy: Well, life with three is amazing! Sadly, I have been having some severe depression since coming off all medications and trying out figure out how to manage it without chemicals. It has been a rough road but I'm finally able to see some light at the end of the tunnel. I'm pretty sure post-partum was a factor and hopefully now that Madilynn has reached the six month mark, things are leveling out. Sleep deprivation was consuming us. Up until just two weeks ago, both babies never slept at the same time and were never content at the same time. Madilynn is still waking 3 times in the night to eat and Derek has decided to take the night feedings because the lack of sleep at night has a more severe effect on my Fibromyalgia and depression. He is so amazing and since him taking on that role, I have been able to wake up easier and happier with the babies at 7am.
I have been trying to keep myself busy by being around friends and get togethers with Rachel and Jeni. It is better for my moods to be out and about with them.

Madisyn: Such a smart cookie! She started back in public school and has been loving it. I was just not able to keep up with her homeschooling with the babies being so needy right now. She is doing so well and receives "Star Student's" daily. She even told us yesterday that she didn't feel like playing outside, instead she wanted to help her teacher in the class with papers. She was so excited to be picked to go to the Principle's office so she could recite the Pledge of Allegiance over the microphone. She said it was her best and worst day. Worst: because her throat croaked like a frog during the recital. We are looking into getting her into drama classes but so far everything is too expensive. She asks us regularly when she can be on stage in a pretty dress. LOL.

Maelynn (22 months): Oh this monkey! She was fully toilet trained and now....not so much. She just one day decided that she was perfectly okay sitting in a stinky diaper. So we are taking a break from it and will attempt it again when she seems interested. Maybe this setback is due to the teething of her two year molars. YIKES!
Maelynn has become such a chatter box the past few weeks. She is putting words together now and her first sentence was just last week. I told her to go put her shoes on and she looked at me and said, "put shoes on?" It was so sweet to hear her little voice say that so clearly. Maelynn adores her baby sissy. The two of them play together for hours on the floor making each other laugh. Now that Madilynn is mobile and playful, the two of them are a riot to watch.

I recently did some rearranging of the rooms and put all three girls in the same room to see if maybe the company would bring better sleep. Well, it has worked out wonderfully! The three of them get showered together, ready for bed together, brush teeth together, read bedtime stories together and pray together. Then the three girls will chatter back and forth to each other often having a farting contest that brings hysterical laughter and then they all fall asleep peacefully. I'm going to keep them sharing a room until Madisyn starts asking for her own room. Until then, it is quite clear they enjoy the comfort of having their sissy's close by. I think the sisterly love and comfort helped them heal quickly from the recent case of croup they shared.

Madilynn (6 months old): This little angel is almost always happy! She only gripes when hungry, tired or in need of a change. She is so content to roll around the playroom chewing on different toys along the way. She is now sitting up and just yesterday she got up on her knees and rocked back and forth! She is also expecting her first tooth soon. Madilynn is at a healthy 17 pounds and loves to eat! She still wakes 3 times in the night to munch. We know the night waking won't last forever but this stage does seem like forever. Luckily her wakings do not disturb Madisyn or Maelynn and I'm just so happy that the past two weeks both babies go down for a nap together at noon. This gives me time to shower and get everything ready to pick Madisyn up from school and then take the kids to the Chiropractor.

We are really excited for May to be here. Derek and I decided a family vacation would be a great way for our family to take some time to reflect on the past year and enjoy each other without the daily stresses. It will also be a combined birthday gift for Maelynn (April), Derek (May) and Madisyn (June). We leave on May 2nd for a week long cruise to Mexico. Yes.......the entire family! Babies and all. By this time Madilynn is sure to be crawling so that should be fun chasing after two babies. Good thing there really isn't far for them to go. LOL. There is so much I'm looking forward to on this cruise but the simplest is probably not having to cook. Oh and no cell phones or computers. Just 100% focus on each other. Is it May yet?

Whew! Did you make it through all of this in one sitting? :-)
I hope you enjoyed catching up on our family. I will try to make them more frequent as soon as I get my laptop back from the shop (partly why I haven't blogged due to malfunctioning laptop) and maybe partly due to the short fly across the room. Don't use laptop as a Frisbee. Long story. I hope this update finds everyone well and in good health. We are sending our prayers and love to all of you. God Bless.

XOXO
Amy, Derek, Bug, Monkey & Snoopy

Snoppy - 6 months

Madilynn & cousin Brenya Boggs

Madilynn's interpretive dance

2009-12-14T13:15:00.000-08:00

JOY TO THE WORLD!

Holidays and more!

2009-11-29T21:48:00.000-08:00

*All photos are clickable for larger view and saving purposes*
Halloween 2009
Derek and I took the kids to Trunk-or-treat at our church, Mission Hills this year. Madisyn had a blast helping to decorate the van's trunk and passing out candy. She was dressed as Little Bo Peep and was pulling a wagon with her two little sheep. I think the costumes were a hit because we kept getting stopped to take pictures. Maelynn had so much candy that night and was very happy to share with her baby sissy. There were a few occasions that I would catch Maelynn with Madilynn's pacifier in her mouth and Maelynn stuffing her lolly in Madilynn's mouth. It made for some adorable moments.

Thanksgiving
Our wonderful friends the Kachinskys welcomed us to spend Thanksgiving this year with their beautiful family. It was so heart-warming to feel like a part of their family. We really enjoyed ourselves and we look forward to our growing friendship with them for many many more years.

My wonderful best friend from grade school gave birth to her first baby two weeks after Madilynn joined our family. Her little bundle, Teagan is a true miracle baby as Jacque was not supposed to be able to get pregnant. I was blessed to be able to be a part of Teagan's birth and was also appointed her God-Mother soon after her amazing arrival. She is so precious and I look forward to watching my "Tiny" grow.

Madilynn and God-Daughter Teagan

"Tiny" Teagan

"Snoopy" Madilynn

Maelynn and Madilynn
Maelynn is so wonderful to her baby sissy! She is always willing to help care for her when Madilynn starts fussing. Whether it is stuffing a pacifier in her mouth or rubbing her head, back, or in this case....ear. It makes me tear up when I see them cuddling on the couch watching cartoons in the mornings. Now if only Maelynn was this sweet with her sissy Madisyn. For some reason Maelynn is constantly trying to bite her. It's a working progress.

Maelynn loves my high heels!

Madisyn is visiting her Great Opa and Beverly for a week in Onyx. She is having a great time and it was a perfect time for me to hit the stores for "Black Friday." It was insane! But my good friend Niah and I had fun navigating Kohls, Walmart, Toys R Us, Jcpenny, Sears and Children's Place. We got some amazing deals and I'm pretty much done with our holiday shopping. Derek and I put up the Christmas tree and decorations today and the house looks so warm and Christmas-y. Maelynn and Madilynn keep checking out the lights and their little eyes literally sparkle. The five of us will be getting our photos taken as a family next week sometime so stay tuned for those. We hope everyone is enjoying this holiday season.

God Bless

Clones!

2009-10-26T22:54:00.000-07:00

Camp Cuddles

2009-10-25T11:59:00.000-07:00

So the cold season has hit the Berg house! For the past month the family has been fighting a miserable lingering cold, and just when it seems like the snot has cleared.....it comes back with a vengeance! Yesterday was especially stressful because Maelynn is getting her 2-year molars. So on top of the snot....there is the drooling, chewing, tantrums and crying. And that's just from Derek! Just kidding. :)

It's amazing what three cranky kids (at once) can do to a marriage. It felt like our family was falling apart so I decided we were going to move our mattress out to the living room, snuggle and watch movies all night. I was praying a night full of cuddles would erase the bad day. We watched movies till 1am, ate junk food galore, tried to sleep in, and enjoyed the blessings God has given us.

Wondering if it made everything better?

You be the judge. :)

Tears

2009-09-23T19:52:00.000-07:00

There have been a lot the past seven weeks. From tears of joy at the birth of our newest angel Madilynn, to tears of jealously from both Madisyn and Maelynn, to tears of exhaustion and frustration, baby tears and then more tears of joy. This house no doubt is full of estrogen.

The past seven weeks have been a blur of diapers, doctor appointments, play-dates, homeschool, colds, naps, breastfeeding, snacks, spit-up, late nights, early mornings and housework. Never in that particular order. THAT I have finally learned to let go of. Though I have had permission by many that it's okay to let things go and relax, I still find myself trying to get it all done and never relaxing. It's like a sick obsession that I can't break and I fear I will be thought of less if my house is not clean, laundry done, kids bathed. I'm not sure who I'm trying to impress or what I am trying to prove. I do know once everything is done I feel on top of the world. Needless to say I have been quite overwhelmed. I'm trying my best to be a Mom to three completely different little girls.

Madisyn is doing so well in school. Since I have taken on homeschooling she has a whole new respect for me. She is a lot less mouthy and extremely helpful with the babies. She is the perfect little Mommy's helper. We had our first meeting with her Education Specialist (Judy) to make sure she is on track with her schooling and that I am doing what I should be. It went very well and Judy said I was very organized and prepared. First time meetings are usually a disaster she said. That helped encourage me.

Maelynn has done a good job of making up for being the middle child by being very loud....about everything! You always know where she is. She has this high pitch squeal that could shatter glass. After reading up on her personality it has become very apparent that she is the true definition of a strong willed child. She screams to try and get her way. She climbs the furniture and today I found her on top of the table spinning in circles. She rides the cats like horses, re-organizes the pantry every chance she gets, sneaks handfuls of cat food that she somehow finds delicious, pokes the dogs eyeballs and find it hilarious, throws herself on the floor in tantrums, takes off her clothes and diaper, picks on her older sister, runs off every time it's diaper time and pulls my shirt down to poke at my breast while Madilynn in nursing. Her favorite word is "mine!" Everything is "mine." Somehow despite all of this she is so gentle to Madilynn. She loves giving her kisses and hugs. She lovingly pats her back or rubs her head. She covers her up with a blanket or tries to give her the pacifier. It is such a beautiful thing to see. She's a handful of active, wonderful, sweet personality.

Madilynn is changing everyday. She started smiling five days ago and yesterday she started cooing. I love laying next to her and talking back and forth with her. Her blue eyes just light up and she smiles so big when we talk to her. It seems like she is already getting so big and it makes me sad that they all have to grow up so fast. I'm doing my best to enjoy every milestone. She is already at least eleven pounds and a nursing champ. She is having another growth spurt because she wants to nurse every hour which has been quite hard since I have other things I need to tend to. She is a good sleeper though and already has a pattern. I'm very thankful for that.

This weekend we have decided to head to Big Bear for my ten year high school reunion. We have prepared ourselves by purchasing a portable DVD player so the kids can watch movies the entire drive. We are praying this will make the travel much easier. Feel free to send some heavy prayer our way.

Here are a few pictures we had done. Unfortunately getting these was a total disaster. Maelynn went on smile strike and would not have anything to do with sitting down or looking at the camera. The low point came when we tried to bribe her with a lolly and we realized we were defeated when even that wouldn't work. I was frustrated since I planned around nap time and everything. These were the only decent shots we could get. We hope by Christmas she is more open to having her picture taken.

We hope this finds everyone well.
God Bless

Pictures!

2009-08-11T13:19:00.001-07:00

Chillin' with Papa

1st bath and slept through the whole thing!

A cuddle with big sissy Madisyn

She's Here!

2009-08-06T12:22:00.001-07:00

Our third precious girl has arrived! She entered this world yesterday (August 4th, 2009) at 12:22am.

Labor started at 5:00am that morning with contractions about five minutes apart lasting 30-45 seconds long. I labored at home and continued on with daily activity. I decided a chiropractic adjustment would do some good so I went in for one. I felt much better even though it did slow my contractions down a bit. It only took them about and hour to pick back up again. I received a call from Dr. Biter checking on my progress. He suggested we come in for a check to see if I was progressing. At around 5:00pm I was 4cm and 90% effaced. I was quite discouraged because it seemed like my contractions were strong but still not on a regular pattern. Dr. Biter and our Doula Terry thought it would be a good idea to go home and get some rest. So I was prescribed an Ambien to help me sleep. The goal was to go home and crash hard from the medication and wake up in full blown labor.
On the way to fill the prescription I got very hungry for once. I have had little to no appetite this entire pregnancy so it was kind of nice to actually feel hungry. I was craving a hamburger and we picked one up. We grabbed my prescription and headed home. The contractions were stronger at this point but still quite easy to get through. I found myself humming VERY deeply and VERY long out and then taking a huge gasp of air in before humming out again extremely helpful and comforting. It made my chest vibrate and the contractions seem very quick and not as painful. I took the Ambien and then set up the webcam so my best friend Mellissa could help me through the labor. I was waiting for the Ambien to kick in.
15 minutes later the contractions changed and I was in full blown labor. There was no sleeping at this point! I don't remember how much time went by but I remember my friend Niah showing up and every time I would have a contraction I would squat and she would put pressure on my lower back. It was just what I needed to get through them. Then I saw Terry in the room and all I wanted to do was get in the bath. I guess I started my own bath and got in. I was only in for about 6 minutes when I felt quite sick and started shaking uncontrollably. I knew I had hit transition. I got out of the bath and the contractions were back to back. I threw on some panties and a tank top and said, "I think we need to go now." Terry agreed and we headed to the hospital.
I guess I had some pretty intense contractions on the way to the car. I remember grabbing on to Terry and just squatting into them. They seemed to go away so fast though and I was still feeling fine. I was worried I would get to the hospital and only be 5cm. Terry followed us in her car and off we went. Every time I had a contraction I would see myself on a little blue quad (4 wheeler) climbing up a mountain as the contraction peeked and then coming down the other side. Derek had no idea until I finally told him today about that and he laughed. He was wondering why I kept chanting "up the hill up the hill up the hill."
About halfway to the hospital I noticed a cop riding along-side us. I prayed to God to just let us get to the hospital. He followed us for awhile and I was surprised he didn't pull us over even after he clearly saw me throw off my seat belt and turn to straddle the front seat. It was the only position comfortable. I guess the cop wasn't up for delivering a baby on the side of the road. We were almost to the hospital and I suddenly had A TON of pressure. I could feel her head and I was trying to hold her in. I could here Derek call the hospital and ask them to have a bed waiting outside for us. We pulled up and they had a wheelchair waiting. I said, "I can't sit in that!" They insisted I did so I was on my side, legs hanging over the wheelchair as to not sit on my bottom. Once we got to the room I tore off my top and panties and climbed up on the bed and straddled it backwards. I then asked if there was just a little something I could get to take the edge off. The nurse said she had to check where I was first. She did and I was 8cm and the bag of water was bulging which explains why I though I felt her head. It was too late to have any medication. I thought I would be angry if I was ever told that but strangely I was fine with it. I just kept asking Terry if this was as strong as it was going to get. She told me it was.

Then I remember hearing Dr. Biter's voice saying I was 10 cm and then my water broke all over the place. I looked down and saw meconium. He reassured me it was light and everything was okay. He told me to push a little because I had just a tiny amount of cervix left. I did and felt her head slide down. It was extremely intense. They kept instructing me to push and I did as much as I could. I could feel her entire body, every little bit. Then Dr. Biter asked if I wanted to touch my baby and I said, "No!" I really just wanted her out. I know I kept telling Dr. Biter to just take her out. Her head was finally out but the cord was wrapped tight. I'm not sure the details yet (I will get them and post them) but all of the sudden there were triple the amount of people in the room and everyone yelling at me to, "PUSH NOW! AMY YOU HAVE TO PUSH HER OUT! COME ON!" I was trying so hard but I couldn't get enough force behind my pushing and then I felt Dr. Biter reach in with both hands and turn the baby around (corkscrew maneuver) and pull her out. He said, "I got it." I turned to sit down (I was still straddling the bed backwards) and saw this little thing so purple, blue and not breathing just laying there and then someone scooped her up and took her to the other side of the room. I kept saying I was sorry to everyone. I felt like I had caused her harm and everyone looked concerned. I kept asking if she was okay and they would try to reassure me she was. I could see Dr. Biter watching as they worked on her for awhile. I don't even remember getting checked for tears or getting cleaned up. All I could see was a bunch of people in yellow paper gowns gathered around Madilynn giving off medical terms. She never even cried. I think she was worked on for about 15 minutes before they handed her over all bundled up. She was so swollen and blue. I just looked at her and felt horrible. Since I didn't even have time to get an IV with antibiotics for the Group B strep, they had to poke Madilynn for blood samples. That's when she cried for the first time. They could not find a vein and her poor little arms and hands are all bruised up from it. I was told she will be okay and that she had the cord wrapped around her neck and then shoulder dystocia. It will take some time for the markes around her neck and her face to heal. Her apgar was 3/8. She was monitored for a few hours to make sure she was breathing well. We were finally transferred to a recovery room around 6am.

Derek and Madisyn headed home to rest and relieve Niah who was watching Maelynn. Madilynn and I got to finally relax and spend some time with each other. I prayed with her to bring healing and relieve her discomfort. I apologized for not spending more time talking to her while I was pregnant with her. I asked for forgiveness for not being more accepting of the pregnancy and her. I needed peace. Holding and looking at her, seeing everything she went through to be with us brought me heartache. After asking her to forgive me I nursed her and she seemed so content. I knew I was forgiven. She is just so beautiful and precious.

We were released with good new that Madilynn's blood work showed no Group B Strep. We got home yesterday around 1pm. Our stay in the hospital was absolutely amazing and everyone was so caring and encouraging. I was asked so many times how it was to deliver drug-free.

Being home is wonderful. Madisyn loves cuddling her baby sister and Maelynn can't smother her enough. Maelynn has taken quite well to the baby however she has put Mommy on her bad people list. She seems a little angry at me. I know that will go away but it still stings a little.

Madilynn is recovering well. She is looking more pink today and less swollen. I can tell because she is nursing better. It has been hard for her to latch well because her face was so swollen she couldn't open her mouth wide enough. She is doing much better today and my milk came in so she is happy. I feel great! I have no tears to heal from and I'm up getting things done like normal. The only discomfort I have is when Madilynn nurses and sets off the after-pains. Now THAT is painful! They tell me is gets worse after each pregnancy and they are SO right! I have no swelling to deal with since I didn't have time for an IV. Having had every type of labor and delivery (long labor with cesarean/long labor VBAC: Vaginal birth after cesarean/drug-free short labor: 6 hours if you count from active labor - 19 hours if you count from first contraction) I would say drug-free is the way to go. It is very intense and painful at times but the body has a way of building a tolerance to the contractions as they get stronger. Pushing without medication however was a different story. That was an out-of-body experience and though I'm so blessed that I was able to experience it, I'm very happy not to do it again.

Derek will be writing his side of the birth story and I will post it with some more pictures of Madilynn. Thank you everyone who supported us and sent us prayers. I could not have done this without everyone's blessings.

Arrival at hospital 11:30pm. Pushed for 22 minutes.
Madilynn Marie Berg
Born 8/4/2009 at 12:22am
Weight: 8 pounds 11 ounces
Length: 20 inches

Madilynn home safe (1 day old)

CONTRACTION TRACKER
Start Time End Time Duration Frequency
10:55:25PM 10:56:18PM 1 m, 39 s
10:53:46PM 10:54:37PM 2 m, 24 s
10:51:22PM 10:52:26PM 8 m, 31 s
10:42:51PM 10:44:00PM 2 m, 54 s
10:39:57PM 10:41:04PM 4 m, 13 s
10:35:44PM 10:37:02PM 1 m, 48 s
10:33:55PM 10:35:02PM 2 m, 4 s
10:31:52PM 10:32:42PM 1 m, 58 s
10:29:54PM 10:30:41PM 2 m, 16 s
10:27:37PM 10:28:36PM 2 m, 29 s
10:25:08PM 10:25:56PM 2 m, 23 s
10:22:45PM 10:23:50PM 2 m, 13 s
10:20:32PM 10:21:31PM 2 m, 39 s
10:17:53PM 10:18:41PM 2 m, 28 s
10:15:25PM 10:16:24PM 2 m, 60 s
10:12:25PM 10:13:26PM 2 m, 38 s
10:09:47PM 10:10:42PM 2 m, 36 s
10:07:11PM 10:08:13PM 8 m, 55 s
9:38:16PM 9:39:05PM 3 m, 47 s
9:34:29PM 9:35:25PM 9 m, 48 s
9:24:42PM 9:25:37PM 3 m, 60 s
9:20:42PM 9:22:04PM 4 m, 50 s
9:15:52PM 9:16:58PM 3 m, 43 s
9:12:09PM 9:13:12PM 4 m, 24 s
9:07:45PM 9:08:59PM 4 m, 50 s
9:02:55PM 9:04:15PM 3 m, 30 s
8:59:25PM 9:00:24PM 3 m, 36 s
8:55:50PM 8:56:35PM 1 m, 41 s
8:54:09PM 8:54:53PM 2 m, 10 s
8:51:59PM 8:52:34PM 3 m, 46 s
8:48:13PM 8:49:23PM 5 m, 22 s
8:42:51PM 8:44:26PM 3 m, 58 s
8:38:54PM 8:40:07PM 3 m, 53 s
8:35:01PM 8:35:43PM 4 m, 7 s
8:30:54PM 8:32:10PM 2 m, 15 s
3:38:39PM 3:39:29PM 5 m, 31 s
3:33:08PM 3:34:04PM 5 m, 36 s
3:27:32PM 3:28:26PM 2 m, 28 s
3:25:04PM 3:26:12PM 5 m, 41 s
3:19:23PM 3:20:17PM 5 m, 33 s
3:13:50PM 3:14:45PM 5 m, 21 s
3:08:30PM 3:09:12PM 4 m, 4 s
3:04:26PM 3:05:05PM 7 m, 53 s
2:56:32PM 2:57:54PM 9 m, 36 s
2:46:56PM 2:47:52PM 7 m, 25 s
2:39:31PM 2:40:32PM 7 m, 57 s
2:31:34PM 2:32:41PM 9 m, 57 s
2:21:38PM 2:23:56PM 7 m, 49 s
2:13:48PM 2:15:05PM 7 m, 55 s
2:05:54PM 2:06:51PM 6 m, 15 s
1:59:39PM 2:00:24PM 3 m, 55 s
1:55:44PM 1:56:24PM 4 m, 18 s
1:51:26PM 1:52:00PM 3 m, 60 s
1:47:26PM 1:48:07PM 4 m, 28 s
1:42:58PM 1:43:46PM 3 m, 15 s
1:39:43PM 1:40:29PM 6 m, 6 s
1:33:37PM 1:34:43PM 5 m, 52 s
1:27:45PM 1:28:36PM 4 m, 8 s
1:23:37PM 1:24:04PM 3 m, 37 s
1:20:00PM 1:20:57PM 5 m, 9 s

"I DUE"

2009-07-27T22:27:00.000-07:00

Six years ago yesterday I walked down the isle in a white dress to commit my life forever as Derek's wife. The first few years had some up's and down's but each year that goes by our marriage gets stronger and I fall more in love with him. I could not ask for a more wonderful, handsome, sensitive, caring, selfless God-loving Husband and Father for our children. I look forward to many more years of growing together and watching the kids navigate life. I pray weekly that our girls find a husband as wonderful as their Father. I tell Madiysn this regularly and today she asked Derek, as he was tucking her in and about to pray with her, "Dad, it must be hard to find that special boy or girl to marry."
Little does her angel heart know just how hard it can be. I can only pray she endures any future heartache with a positive outlook and grows stronger from it, not colder like her Momma did. I thank the Lord that Derek chiseled his way in and warmed my heart.

Since Madilynn's due date is so close to our anniversary, we decided to celebrate it two weekends ago. Our wonderful friends Terri and Adrianna watched the kids for us. We left Saturday morning and took a leisurely drive down the coast. Along the way we saw a cute little breakfast stop and had a very delicious and uninterrupted breakfast. No sticky hands in our hair or thrown pancakes. We even took a look around a swap meet. Then it was on to our destination. Derek and I pulled up to the trendy Hard Rock Hotel in San Diego. After exploring the entire hotel and all the crazy memorabilia, Derek treated us to our very first couples massage (and actually Derek's very first massage ever). It was so relaxing and wonderful to enjoy that peace together. Hungry by this time, we agreed to a sushi dinner at the famous NOBU sushi restaurant located in the hotel. We got really creative and tried a few things we had no idea how to pronounce and were very pleased at how delicious it all was. Still having some energy, we decided to hit the roof-top to check out the extremely popular (wait in line two hours) night club overlooking San Diego. Being hotel guests were were VIP to the club so no waiting in line for us and no $20 cover charge. We people-watched for about twenty minutes and realized how out-of-place we felt as we saw young half-clad females rub their bums on very intoxicated men. I couldn't help but to giggle as I stood their nine months pregnant. Don't get me wrong, Derek and I used to hit the clubs together during our dating and pre-baby phase. I'm sure we still have a few moves in us if we tried but the reality is, we would rather bust out a few moves with the kids to High School Musical.
So Derek and I retreated to the room and ordered a movie. I took full advantage of the awesome shower equipped with two rain shower heads and my favorite part, the body wash and shampoo samples. I couldn't help to notice there wasn't a little person pulling the shower curtain back and trying to climb in the shower with me though. I must admit that I felt a bit guilty for taking such a long shower because the shower heads were far from water conservative. I even joked with Derek that though they were nice, I wouldn't be able to have something like that in our house because I would feel way too guilty wasting that much water everyday. He totally agreed. I love that man! So we watched a movie and even treated ourselves to a drink from the fully stocked refrigerator. I fell asleep halfway through the movie snoring like a banshee apparently. We awoke by the sound of quiet. No, "I'm hungry" or "monkey keeps climbing on me" or cats trying to climb their way under the blankets. It was almost too quiet. Almost.
We got ready just in time for check out and had breakfast in the hotel's cafe. It was a quiet breakfast. Without words Derek and I could read each other and know that we missed our babies and it was time to get back to sticky fingers, diapers and the best hugs and kisses in the world.

Yesterday marked six years of marriage and eight years of a life together. We spent it just the four (or five) of us not doing much because our newest family member has made things a bit harder on me physically. It was still nice to just be. Unfortunately the night ended with a bang. A large bang as monkey fell off the potty (yes she is toilet training and doing wonderful) and hit her forehead pretty hard. Instant goose-egg. We all felt horrible as it happened while we were all in arms reach. Luckily she is fine but the night was filled with guilt and anger. After much praying we were all better by this morning and Maelynn has her first decent bruise that makes her look a little more rough and tumble.

I had a OB appointment scheduled for today. This was a really big deal since the last three were cancelled because Dr. Biter was delivering babies. I woke up excited as I still hadn't received a phone call to reschedule. As the time drew close to leaving for my appointment I was really happy. We took the kids over to our good friend Niah's since we knew we were going to ask Dr. Biter to check if I had made any progress. About halfway to the appointment the van started to make really strange sounds. All I could tell Derek was to "get to the Doctor's and we will figure it out from there." There was no stopping me from making this appointment! So we quietly drove and prayed we would make it to the office as our van sounded like the transmission was about to drop out the bottom. We really could not believe the luck we were having. We did make it to the appointment on time and got to finally see Dr. Biter. It was a wonderful reunion. He checked out baby and she is good. She is facing a bit forward (explains the back pain) so I'm doing some positions to hopefully get her facing down. My blood pressure was a little low 99/66 but I'm not experiencing any side effects from it. I weigh in at 151 (a 39 pound weight gain). I'm also 3cm dilated and 80% effaced. Dr. Biter did a membrane sweep to see if that would help things along. Now we wait, and hope baby Madilynn comes soon. She is officially "DUE" on Wednesday.

We are happy to report that the van is okay and it was not the transmission. The van was repaired in a few hours and we were back home at a decent hour. I was even able to make it to a last minute chiropractic adjustment to help ease the PSD discomfort. Getting adjusted has been a life saver!

Well, we are so ready to close this chapter of our lives and begin the new one "Family of Five." We could use any prayers for a safe, easy (yes I know wishful thinking), quick labor and delivery. I hope this finds everyone well. We will let you know when little Madilynn decides to join us.

God Bless,
Amy, Derek, Madisyn, Maelynn & Madilynn

Dizzy!

2009-07-16T19:35:00.000-07:00

You can be sure that God will take care of everything that you need. PHILIPPIANS 4:19

I have been putting off posting a new blog because I really just don't know where to start. The past month has been insane! My head is still spinning with everything that has happened.

To start: I took Maelynn in for her physical four weeks ago . I pondered even taking her because I was just so tired that day and I was still in the process of researching more about the MMR vaccine which she was due to get. Still, I just pushed myself to go to the appointment and the entire time I had a little voice screaming at me to leave. I ignored that and my instinct. The Doctor gave me a wonderfully prepared speal on the pros of the MMR after I asked if he could separate the vaccines and get them Thimerosal-free (mercury-free). He said he could not. I held my baby as she got poked and then was told to give her Tylenol. I went home feeling terrible. Three days later Maelynn broke out into a horrendous rash covering her entire body. She was extremely irritable, cried constantly and just wanted to be held. She has always been a wonderful sleeper but she started waking a few times in the night in a panick screaming. She didn't even want to eat. I took her back to the Doctor and told him I know it was a reaction to the MMR. After arguing with him, he finally agreed it was probably the measles portion of the MMR but she would be fine. Then he proceeded to fill out some lengthy paperwork which I presume was to report a vaccine reaction to the CDC. To this day we are still battling her reaction. I took her to my Chiropractor who was able to adjust her a few times and it has helped immensely with getting her immune system back in order. She is also on quite a few different vitamins and supplements to flush her system out. It was awful to watch our normally very happy baby turn into a clingy, constantly crying, unhappy little girl all day long for three weeks. After speaking with a few friends of mine I found out through one that her son had the same reaction and it turned out to be a form of measles he contracted. I also found out the Doctor should have warned me not to let her in the sunlight because having a measles outbreak and being in direct sunlight (which she was) can cause blindness! You see, Doctors assume all vaccines are 100% effective when the reality is they are actually giving children unnatural forms of the disease that the doctors don't recognize, or treat as something else.

We are continuously praying this does not have any lasting effects on her. We are still having some trouble with her sleeping patterns and she still has some rashy spots but she is back to eating us out of house and home and she is much happier. She barely has any meltdowns and is content playing on her own again.

Madisyn is in her second week of camp. The first week was okay. Unfortunately the camp members forgot to apply sunscreen to the kids and poor little fair Madisyn got a pretty awful sunburn. I was not a very happy Mommy and she of course wasn't feeling all that great. They did apologize which I wish I could say helped a little but it didn't. I'm very protective with the kids when it comes to the sun, especially with them being so fair skinned. But, Madisyn healed well and found it extremely funny to gross me out with her peeling skin. YACK!

Derek is being blessed with lots of work. I can tell he is so grateful for having work but I see the stress in his eyes. I'm trying my best to help out but the last two weeks I can barely muster up the strength to shower. So Derek has had to pick up after my slack lately. Derek and I finally decided we needed to find some extra help. We hired our friends oldest daughter Adrianna to come over three times a week to help bathe, feed and put the kids to bed. That way Derek has time to go to the gym for a little downtime and come home and make dinner. Yes, Derek is the chef in our house. I burn jello. Hiring Adrianna has worked out very well and especially today since I crashed out at 3pm and there was no getting me out of bed. My body is desperately trying to give up and I'm fighting it just to keep the house together and chores done. My Mom's group at church has started bringing us meals and will for a few weeks. This has all been such a blessing and I can't even express how thankful we are for eveyone's help.

Two weeks ago the family was driving around with Derek while he ran some work errands. We wanted to spend some time with him so we figured since he was driving all over San Diego we would hang out with him and just enjoy the nice day. We happened to be in Encinitas near the office of Dr. Biter. He is the wonderful angel that delivered Maelynn. He had not seen Maelynn since she was 6 weeks old so Derek and I agreed it would be cool for the family to drop by and surprise him. Unfortunately he was at the hospital delivering a baby. I was in the process of leaving him a note when I starting talking about Maelynn's birth and how bummed I was that Dr. Biter couldn't deliver this baby because he doesn't take our current insurance. The receptionist was like, "Wait! You are a pre-existing patient right? We take your insurance for pre-existing!" I instantly started bawling my eyes out. I was so overwhelmed and was able to set up an appointment right away. So at 37 weeks I transferred to Dr. Biter. Just like I did with Maelynn at 37 weeks. To top it off I was put in the same room we first met and the first time there was police action going on outside the window. This time.....there was police action going on outside the window. It was hilarious how ironic it all was. I'm so very excited that Dr. Biter will be with us again and that we will be delivering at Scripps Encinitas. We really love that hospital and the nurses are fabulous! Maybe we will be even more lucky and have Nurse Jillian again.

Madilynn is doing well. She is head down and in perfect position. She is also big. I was kinda hoping for a smaller baby this time so I know I could deliver her well but it looks like we have another 8+ pounder. I'm mostly belly this time and I have only gained 37 pounds. That's a huge difference from Madisyn's pregnancy at 60 pounds and close to Maelynn's at 40 pounds. I don't have much of an appetite this pregnancy. Unless you count Starburst and ice a food group.
I have been seeing the Chiropractor three times a week which has been a God send. My pelvis is trying to separate a lot and it is extraordinarily painful to walk and well just move in general. So Dr. Marggie has been working very hard to stabilize my pelvis and bring me some relief from the back pain. I'm a bit anemic as well so I'm taking some extra supplements. There really isn't much else to report on the pregnancy. Madilynn is just way too comfy and doesn't seem to want to join us yet. It feels like I'm going to be pregnant forever. This pregnancy has gone by super fast but it has also been the hardest by far. I've been told it's because the last two are so close together and I totally believe that.

Well, I better log off. Madisyn is laughing hysterically trying to yank out her loose tooth at this very moment and I think I need to hide in the closet before I up-chuck my dinner. I hope this find everyone well.

Lots of love from Amy, Derek, Madisyn, Maelynn & Madilynn

Milestones

2009-06-22T09:38:00.000-07:00

Last Wednesday was full of milestones. Both girls blessed us with a special day.

Madisyn received an Award of Excellence and a No Tardies award at the last assembly of the year. She was so proud to have her name called and to be able to stand next to the Principle. I couldn't stop smiling and even Maelynn was blowing her sissy kisses and clapping along with the audience. Derek and I are so very proud of her.

Maelynn took her first nap ever in her new toddler bed. I have been a bit nervous about beginning this new routine because she is still so young, but with the new baby coming, both Derek and I think it is best to get her used to napping in her big girl bed before the baby arrives. That means we have about 5 weeks to instill this new routine. Then once Madilynn arrives we will have about 14 weeks to get Maelynn used to sleeping in her toddler bed through the whole night so that Madilynn can take the crib. This whole week she has gone down for a nap in her big girl bed and she has done fabulous! It does take her a few more minutes to get relaxed but so far so good. I really want to take some pictures to share with everyone how cozy she looks but I'm afraid to wake my little light sleeper. She is like her Mommy and wakes really easy. I think in a few weeks when she is used to her bed I can sneak in a few pictures without disturbing her. Anyhow, she looks so peaceful and so tiny laying there, thumb in the mouth and snuggling her favorite baby that my Aunt Pam and Uncle Jim got for her. Such a beautiful sight.

I was finally able to put together the hospital bag and Derek and I have the infant seat installed in the van. We are all ready to go! I'm 35 weeks this Wednesday. Madisyn has decided she does want to be there again for her littlest sister's birth and we are really happy that she is excited about it. It was so wonderful to have her there when Maelynn was born. She was so helpful and to feel her little hand on my leg or arm was comforting during those intense contractions. We have been extremely blessed to have labor support this time also. Terry is a very qualified Nurse and Doula. She has graciously taken us on and will be able to provide labor support at home as well as in the hospital. As crazy as it must seem, yes I do intend to go drug-free. Even though Maelynn's labor is still so fresh, I'm determined to go all natural. I have one more try at it so we shall see what happens.

This whole week Madisyn has Summer Camp. She will be busy all day with activities, swimming, crafts and free play. She was starting to show some "Summer Blues" signs so this will be good for her to meet new friends and have fun fun fun! We officially have our first day of home school on August 17th. I will keep everyone posted on how it goes.

I hope this finds everyone well and in good spirits. We are sending our love your way.

God bless

A new direction

2009-06-07T21:13:00.000-07:00

You know those times in life where everything seems to fit in place? Where things seem to go so well it's almost mundane? There are those who like the mundane, routine, and predictability life can offer. They find comfort in it. Then there are those who get agitated or uncomfortable when things are going too well for too long. They are constantly on guard for something bad to happen and they often live in constant chaos in which they feel secure. I for one have always been quite content to have predictability in my life. I've never been one for change, it frankly irritates me and leaves me uneasy. I'm absolutely fine when things are going really well and......for a really long time.

Since having our wonderful children I have learned to lighten up a bit, and even more so in the past 8 months, I have learned that life is full of unpredictable and life changing surprises. Before children I would have hidden out in my room curled up in a ball feeling like the world was going to end when change came my way. After children: I now hold my breath for a few seconds, say "Please Lord give me strength." and buckle up for the new ride. Some rides have been so scary I can't wait to get off and some have been quite fun. Regardless, each new adventure has made me stronger and less scared that I'm not in control. Being closer to God has also made this possible and I am completely content to let Him direct me to where He wants me to be, even if it is not necessarily where I want to be.

I especially know this has been the the case since our recent decision to home-school Madisyn. I went from having a "not possible, don't have the patience, not strong enough" attitude to embracing the idea after much prayer. Though I am a little nervous about the new changes this will bring, I am excited at what God has in store for us and I pray he works miracles through me to have the energy, patience and knowledge to be able to teach Madisyn, Maelynn and Madilynn God's love and all the wonderful things they need/want to learn.

The Lord loves the just and will not forsake his faithful ones. They will be protected forever. PSALM 37:28

8 months pregnant with Madilynn Marie

2009-06-01T17:37:00.001-07:00

While Derek and Madisyn were having some good bonding time traveling to Colorado, I booked an appointment to get some maternity shots done with Maelynn in case I go into labor early. Maelynn hammed it up as usual when the camera came out but most of all she enjoyed poking my protruding belly-button (or baby-timer is what I like to call it). I just hope she doesn't find it as humorous to poke Madilynn when she is born.

I hope to get another set of pictures done with the whole family a bit closer to the due date so stay tuned.

XOXO

2009-05-29T16:17:00.000-07:00

"God, Who comforts and encourages and refreshes and cheers the depressed and the sinking, comforted and encouraged and refreshed and cheered us." 2 CORINTHIANS 7:6

Father God,

There is so much in my life today that makes me want to give up. I have no energy to do even the basic things such as getting dressed or taking a shower. Nothing seems right. Food no longer appeals to me. My family and friends want to help me, but the thought of being with anyone is so exhausting.

I just want to be left alone. Why must I feel this way? How could I wake up one day with such despair in my heart? It's not that I haven't struggled to shake off this gloomy cloud. I truly have, but nothing has helped. And then I remember how You died on that cross for me and how alone and abandoned You must have felt.

Thank You for showering me with Your life-giving comfort and the reassurance of knowing that You truly understand my suffering. Lord, I turn to You now in hope and faith because even if everyone else in my life gives up on me, I know You'll hold tight to me with a love that won't let go. Thank You for always being my Anchor.

Amen

"When you come to the bottom, you find God." Neville Talbot

When it rains it pours

2009-05-21T07:14:00.000-07:00

A good friend of mine has a magnet on her refrigerator. It reads: "It all gets better in the end. If it's not better....it's not the end." That could not read more true for me with the last months very difficult, trying times.

The move in itself was quite hectic. I'm happy to say that we are finally settled in but unfortunately have not had time to really enjoy our new home. Then of course our recent trip to Big Bear. If that wasn't enough, I had to make a very hard decision regarding mine and a family member's relationship.
The pregnancy is causing extreme amounts of pain that often leave me flat out on the couch. My MRI is scheduled for next Tuesday but I have to go through a lot of paperwork and talking to the specialists because they try not to do MRI's in pregnancy. Unfortunately the only way I can get one done is during pregnancy or I will not have insurance to cover it. I lose my medical after the baby is born.

Some recent test results showed that I have had a Urinary Tract Infection for over a month now. I had no signs or symptoms but I'm now taking antibiotics to hopefully stop it from getting to my kidneys. Tests also showed I have Group B Strep. Unfortunately I have not been taking care of myself like I should. I'm so exhausted most days and I have no appetite. I'm sure all this has also contributed to my chest cold.

Since the move I have found it to be practically impossible to just stop and relax. Derek has been very busy with work and school which is a blessing. I'm struggling to keep the house together and to take care of Maelynn when I can barely take care of myself. I have been overwhelmed with everything and I have not been able to bond with Madilynn. I'm in my 30th week of pregnancy and can barely find joy in it. I was at a moms group at church on Tuesday and I was very hesitant to mention my feelings. I don't want people to think I'm ungrateful for the blessings we have or to think I don't appreciate my Daughters. I vaguely said how I was doing and two other Moms started talking to me. They told me their stories and they were describing everything I have been feeling. They told me to contact my Midwife ASAP. I called as soon as the meeting was over and she was so happy I called her. I felt ashamed telling her my feelings but she assured me it was very common and that I am suffering from depression. She is now treating me for it. After some research I learned that I have many of the risk factors for depression in pregnancy.

*Chronic illness or pain
*Previous fertility problems
*Unexpected pregnancy
*Complicated pregnancy
*Personal or family history of depression
*Previous pregnancy loss
*Stressful life events

The other concern my Midwife has is pre-term labor. My immune system is so down right now and with the other medical issues (pain, depression, infection) I'm higher risk for it. I'm taking it week by week. My goal right now is to get to 33 weeks. Then once I get there my goal will be 36. After that Madilynn will be fine if she decides to come early.

We have been so blessed to have amazing friends from church who have been very supportive with prayers and encouragement. Derek and Madisyn left yesterday afternoon for a road trip to Colorado. Derek's sister Rachel is graduating High School and they are looking forward to being there. They will be home Monday. Our friends have offered any help I need while they are gone and I have even been given some delicious meals because as we all know....I do not cook. I would just prefer to not eat. Terrible I know. I burn water though. LOL. My friend Niah even showed up with a gorgeous bouquet of flowers! She just had her second baby a few weeks ago so for her to go out of her way to do that means a lot to me.

Today our cousin Rachel is coming down with her babies Luke and Julie to hang out. Maelynn could use the play buddies and I could use the company. One of my best friends' Jacque is coming down and staying for the weekend. She is also pregnant so we intend to plant our pregnant butts on the couch with a ton of junk food and well......be pregnant. I'm sure there will be a lot of complaining and griping and eating and there will be no males around to make fun of us while we compare stretch marks and swollen cankles. Though I do miss Derek and Madisyn tons already.

Maelynn is doing okay. She is teething something terrible. All four molars are being very slow to push through and she has been one ball of crankiness since our move. She also has a cold so we are both just a gooey mess. LOL. I have faith everything is going to get better soon. We continue to keep in prayer and hopefully we can look back on this past month and maybe even find some humor in it or at least realize it wasn't all that bad after all.

Hope this finds everyone well.
God Bless,
Amy

Our trip to Big Bear

2009-05-11T14:59:00.000-07:00

I would love to say our trip to Big Bear was restful and relaxing as it was supposed to be. We were all hoping it would be time to recover from the big move and my recent hospital visit. We were going to cancel the trip because the main reason we were going was for a friend's baby shower, however, the shower was cancelled because she was in the hospital already having had the baby. But when we found out my Dad was going to be there we changed our minds and thought it would be great for him to get to see his grand-babies.

The drive up Maelynn screamed and cried the entire time. She did not want to be in her car seat. We finally had to stop so I could take some time out away from the chaos. Of course Maelynn was a total angel the whole time we were out of the car. We dreaded putting her back in her seat but had to get up to Big Bear. The screaming ensued.

On arrival: seeing my Mom and Grandpa was wonderful and I was so happy to be out of the car. The kids were to I'm sure. I got to see my Dad for about 20 minutes at Starbucks before he ran off to look at some property for sale. I made dinner reservations since it was also my Grandpa's birthday. My Dad and his girlfriend didn't show. Dinner was good though. I made Mother's Day breakfast reservations for the next day so we could visit before we headed back home, knowing it was going to be awhile before we saw anyone again. Dad and his girlfriend didn't show. I left extremely disappointed. To top it off, Maelynn screamed the entire drive down and just as she stopped, Madisyn proceeded to violently vomit and have diarrhea non-stop at the same time. We ended up stranded on the side of the road for an hour or so until we finally found a hospital in Riverside. Turned out Madisyn had food poisoning. She was seen quickly while Derek waited in the hallway lobby with cranky Maelynn and of course our dog because it was too hot to leave her in the car. Luckily the anti-nausea meds worked fabulously and we were on our way home again 3 1/2 hours later. Maelynn fussed some more and finally about 20 minutes before we got home they both passed out from exhaustion.

I'm still recovering mentally from the entire weekend. The plus side: I did get a beautiful diamond necklace from Derek and the girls that I just love!

Today both kids are great. Madisyn feels fine like nothing even happened and Maelynn has been such a sweetheart giving lots of kisses and cuddles. I'm so glad to be home. Derek and I have decided that it is not fair for us to continue to uproot our family and take time and money to travel to see family as much as we have. It is always very stressful and there are only a couple that have ever reciprocated visits. We will most likely not be traveling again till at least Madilynn is old enough to communicate. Hopefully then traveling will go smoother. Until then, I will just continue to update our family blog with info and pictures of the kiddos as they grow up and reach milestones. God Bless.

Lots of love,
Amy, Derek, Madisyn, Maelynn & Madilynn

All settled in!

2009-05-08T11:57:00.001-07:00

Well.....we are officially all settled in our new place! We had a lot of wonderful help from friends at church and it was such a blessing to have them help us make the transition go smooth.

There is so much more room for the kids and they absolutely love their backyard. We bought them a little playhouse, sandbox and bubble maker. Now Maelynn begs to go outside and will spend a good hour and a half at a time playing contently by herself.
(I will try to get some pictures up soon)

Unfortunately the past two weeks I have been in more pain than normal. My normal days I will be about a 4 or 5 on the pain scale and I'm able to deal with that fine but lately it has been going up to 8-9. We think it may be my growing uterus causing more pressure on my lower back which already has some disk and nerve issues. I spoke with my Midwife Wednesday to see if I could get something a little stronger than Tylenol and after telling her my symptoms (numb-tingling in legs, dizziness and unable to stand or sit without shooting pain) she urged me to go to the hospital right away. I guess she and the Dr. were concerned that the amount of pain I was in would spur on early labor. Once at the hospital I was seen by a specialist who determined that I needed to get an MRI done on my lower back. I was offered a few different pain relief methods but choose only one Vicodin pill totally convinced it would be enough because in the past 1/2 of one would knock me out. The nurse kept telling me she didn't think it would do anything because my elevated blood pressure and clammy skin were a good indication I was in a lot of pain. She was right. The Vicodin didn't even touch it and I ended up getting IV Morphine. Even the Morphine just took the edge off. I have been prescribed Vicodin twice daily and Flexeril 3 times daily. It would be impossible for me to function correctly, take care of the kids and house if I took the recommended doses so I have resorted to just taking one each right before bed. It hasn't helped. Today I'm just as if I never went to the hospital. In fact I'm now having a Fibro flare-up due to the IV. Anytime I have something done invasive that involves nerves or muscle I flare-up for a few days. I'm at a point where I'm not sure what the next step is. Once I have another MRI done hopefully we will have some options on what we can do to help alleviate some of the chronic pain.

On a lighter note: Once Madisyn gets home from school today we will be headed to Big Bear for the weekend to visit Great Bee Bop and Grandma. Also a nice surprise, my Dad happened to be planning to go up there to look at property so it looks like we will get to see him also! The weather looks like it will be beautiful and I'm hoping to get some well needed R&R.

Well better run. Maelynn sounds like she is stirring from her nap. Hope all is well and we are sending love and prayers your way.

The Bergs

365 days ago............

2009-04-23T12:35:00.000-07:00

our little Maelynn came into this world greeting her big Sissy first. Since then she has captured our hearts and love with her amazing and beautiful personality. She is our little monkey of cuddles; always taking time out of her busy schedule of exploring to climb up, wrap her little arms around us, run her fingers in our hair, stuff her thumb in her mouth, and make the cute little "Mmmm" sound. After a few minutes she is off again exploring but not for long because I know she will be back for another cuddle soon enough.

She is so proud of her new skill walking and now throws in some dancing moves, and you will most likely see her wiggling to Madisyn's singing. Maelynn's recent independence has also brought on some lovely little tantrums over very random things. Example: today I put a dress on her and she was fine. Then about five minutes later she was flopping on the ground, rolling around making a fuss. Her tantrums never last more than 2-3 minutes because I ignore them and walk away so she doesn't have an audience. After she was finished she came over to me, pulled her dress up over her head and said "up." I can only guess she wanted the dress off. Instead I asked if she wanted to go bye bye and she shook her head yes and then brought me one of my shoes and one of hers.

She has learned so much over the past year. She can understand us if we ask her to get the ball, her shoes, or her cup. She knows it's diaper time and most days will lay down for you (or some days take off running). She can help take her clothes off when it's bath time and is learning to rub soap on her tummy. She loves to help with laundry and her favorite buddy is our dog Kody. Maelynn now tries to ride her like a little horse and loves to give and receive kisses from her. She even tries to share her sippy cup with Kody, whether the dog likes it or not.

Maelynn's vocabulary is growing each day. Her newest thing is "Uh Oh" and "Ooh ooh ah ah" like a monkey. We are currently working on the word "please" since she is now saying "thank you" for everything.

Yesterday she took interest in a snail and thought it funny to watch it shrink every time she touched it. She also kept tasting a leaf and every time she tasted it would make a funny face until she decided to throw it. Every morning she helps Daddy take Kody out for a walk. I was in the room making the bed up while Maelynn was messing around with the pillows on the ground and out she pulls a pine cone! A little treasure she found on her walk and proceeded to hide for safe keeping.

Mother Nature has decided to bless little Maelynn this morning with a very tender set of gums. How appropriate that today she is cutting her bottom one year molars. It is a nice confirmation to me that she is right on track; however for Maelynn is a tough part of growing up.

Thank you Lord for allowing us this time with your precious gifts. We are so very thankful to be able to watch these amazing angels grow up.

Maelynn's birthday dinner was at The Old Spaghetti Factory. Madisyn picked it and insisted it was Maelynn's favorite. We all know it's actually Madisyn's favorite restaurant though. LOL. Maelynn was even sung to and yes.......I cried.

Maelynn's birthday was nice. She was so beautiful in her pink dress and she was a total angel the entire day. She hammed it up and was affectionate with everyone while showing off her adorable dimples. Maelynn enjoyed playing with her monkey cake but preferred eating a cupcake more. She also had no interest in opening her gifts and was more interested in opening the Gerber Graduate snacks she received as gifts.

Thank you to everyone who celebrated Maelynn's special day.

Update on Madilynn: My OB appointment went well yesterday. I weighed in at 137. So far a 22 pound weight gain. Blood pressure was 106/63; surprising to me with how much stress this move has been causing. Baby is doing well and I'm measuring right on track. I will be 27 weeks this Wednesday and it's just flying by! Most days I forget I'm pregnant because I'm so busy. That is until I'm laying down for the night and then Madilynn goes crazy, clamoring for attention and kicking me pretty hard. Unfortunately I have had little time to dote on this pregnancy. There was a lot of belly rubbing and talking to Madisyn and Maelynn while pregnant but this time around we're really just more excited to have Madilynn here with us so we can get into the new groove of a family of five! WOW!

Many changes

2009-04-15T10:25:00.000-07:00

So it looks like a new move is in the future for us. In fact, a new move in the next two weeks! Derek and I have decided we need a larger place since we have outgrown our current condo. We found an adorable 3 bedroom, 2 full bath condo with a small yard that is perfect for our growing family and animals. We are excited and what better way to indulge my nesting instincts by nesting an entire new home! LOL.

We will be quite busy the next month or two with everything but are very positive about our future. Madisyn is really excited to be getting her own room and we are literally moving walking distance from our current place; so Madisyn stays in the same school and can still visit her friends here!

We will post pictures of the new place as soon as we can. Until then, we hope you enjoy these photos of the kiddos. Maelynn's first year pictures and Madisyn's 1st grade photo.

God Bless

5 1/2 months along

2009-03-31T09:59:00.000-07:00

My prenatal appt went well yesterday. I did put on a good seven pounds in the past month thanks to all the delicious sweets I have been craving this pregnancy. Also, I have not been active at the gym like I was with Maelynn so I guess the weight gain is to be expected. So far I have put on a total of 18 pounds. Blood pressure is great 108/53 and Madilynn is kicking away....all the time and usually at 11pm!

The girls room is just about done. Maelynn's adorable toddler bed is up so she can practice getting in and out of it during the day and get used to having it around when we transition her. She is already jumping on it and Derek has had to tell her, "no monkeys jumping on the bed!"

We were wondering if it would happen before she turned one. I wasn't pushing it but was curious if she would because Madisyn was doing it by eleven months. Well, she is! Yep...Maelynn is walking! She practiced ALL DAY yesterday walking back and forth between toys and today she has barely crawled. I laugh every time because frankly it is really funny to see such a little person walking around. We are so excited for her new found freedom and she happily thrives off our praises. Maelynn is also cutting her two top molars as well as two more on the bottom. That gives her ten teeth already! DROOL DROOL DROOL!
Maelynn's new vocabulary:
Thank you, up, doggie, kitty, Dada, Mama, baba, eye, all done, hi and bye.

Madisyn will be leaving this weekend for Grandma and Grandpa's. She is so excited to do crafts with Grandma Beverly. She is also anxious for the s'mores she was promised. I wouldn't mind some of those right now actually. Madisyn also lost her fifth tooth the other day! Unfortunately the "Tooth-fairy" fell asleep on the job and had to reschedule her visit for the following night. Thankfully Madisyn wasn't too upset even though the "Tooth-fairy" still managed to leave the tooth behind along with the money. You know you're a tired parent when.........

Everyone here is doing well. We are just keeping busy and looking forward to the new changes in our future. I'm not going to lie, I am exhausted and hurting everywhere! We are so thankful for this new blessing but this has been the hardest pregnancy by far. We thank God for three healthy, beautiful little girls and we are now done having babies. I admit I will miss the baby phases when they out-grow them. Derek and I have our hearts set on adopting in the future when the girls are more independent. We would like a little boy around two or three years old. We definitely see it in our future but until then we are so excited to watch our amazing girls grow up.

Madilynn Marie Berg

2009-03-10T22:05:00.000-07:00

Today we got to watch a VERY active little girl bouncing about and giving the technician an extremely difficult time. To top it off Madilynn had the hiccups and was also switching between kicks to thumb sucking. She is measuring right on track and very healthy. Everything looks great they said and the icing on the cake: my placenta moved and is no longer an issue for delivery. Whoo Hoo!

I have had no problems for the past four weeks straight and though this pregnancy is a lot harder physically, we are really getting excited to have another little beautiful girl in our family. We even went stroller shopping because now we need to upgrade to a double stroller. It was horrible and too much like car shopping but after trying out 10-15 different strollers, we finally found what will soon be the younger children's new ride. It isn't too heavy for me to lift or fold and doesn't take up the entire storage area in the van. Thank goodness we are done with that process!

Madisyn: Our big little girl will be spending Spring vacation with her wonderful great-grandparents Dieter and Beverly. We get a little pang at the thought of her being gone so long but they (including Madisyn) are all really excited about it and we think she is finally old enough. I think it will be wonderful for her to have quality one-on-one time so she feels special. I have noticed I do not get enough of that with her so I decided to take Madisyn to dinner after Girl Scouts every other Thursday. Just the two of us. She really seems to enjoy that time. She is growing up to be such a wonderful, caring, beautiful girl. I just can't believe she will be seven soon. Sometimes I have to remind myself that I actually gave birth to her. It seems to surreal.

Maelynn: This little monkey is at my absolute favorite age. Ten months and she has learned to play on her own awhile, she can get around by herself and her personality is starting to shine. The other day at church she insisted on waving and saying "Hiii" to everyone that passed by her. Then she would clap when someone would say "Hi" back. I was laughing so hard I thought I would wet my pants. She also surprised us by taking her first steps but not just one or two but FIVE! Yep, in a row and of course she thought it was hilarious, grinning ear to ear showing off her adorable dimples.

We are so blessed with these angels. I'm so happy God chose us to raise these little girls. They give us such joy everyday, and even when the times get rough there always seems to be a toothy grin or silly giggle to make it all better.

Monkey

2009-02-08T13:46:00.000-08:00

So our little Monkey had her 9-month check-up. Time has flown! The Doctor looked her over and after taking her weight (18lbs. 6oz.) and height (28 inches) determined that she is in the 75% for her height, 40% for weight and her little head at 42cm is a mear 9%! "She is a tall one," he said. Also, she has four teeth on top and two on bottom which the Doctor said is, "quite early for that many." He asked me what she is doing activity wise and what she is eating and I told him the long list of foods she loves including Madisyn's favorite, Spaghetti. He seemed a bit shocked she was eating and enjoying most of the items I rambled off. He mentioned that she is quite advanced in her activity and social skills. It really hasn't been the first time I have heard that and I, including many of our friends, have noticed that about Maelynn. She seems to be taking after her big sister.

Today at church it was really sweet to watch her interact with little ones close in age. She was very social and not shy at all. I was taken back a bit because I'm so used to Madisyn who is known to be quite shy. Even when Madisyn was Maelynn's age she would stay close by us and not venture too far to explore. Maelynn however, was content to climb over all the kids including their parents. It was so cute!

Maelynn is currently working on standing alone. She has been seen a few times standing but once she realizes it she will quickly sit down. She also loves to hold your hand and walk. Just one hand though.

Maelynn's personality can be somewhat unpredictable. Most days she is happy to play on her own and will come find me calling "Mama" if she needs reassurance I'm close by. Then there are those days when nothing seems to make her happy and she just feels the need to flop herself around the floor in a tantrum. I never expected the tantrums to come so early. Madisyn had very few of them so it is hard for me to remember. Maelynn adores Madisyn and they share this bond that I can not explain. If Madisyn is fixed on something she is doing, sure enough Maelynn has to come stick her nose in it. The great thing is that most times Madisyn doesn't mind and will include Maelynn. That is if it's something Madisyn doesn't mind getting slobbered on because EVERYTHING has to be taste-tested by Monkey.

Maelynn has made it known that she is our little explorer. She finds humor in climbing in/on things that are not normally meant for babies and of course destroying/throwing toys is also her thing to do. We also noticed she takes an interest in trucks and cars and likes to drive them along the floor. It is such a blessing to have two girls with two very different personalities. It will be so awesome to watch them develop into young teenagers and to see if Madisyn's love for crafts and scrapbooking and Maelynn's exploring nature follow them.

Maelynn taking a taste of the dog's bone and then a sip of water from the dog dish!

15 weeks

2009-02-03T17:24:00.000-08:00

Today I had an appointment with the specialist to have another ultrasound done. We needed to re-check what has been causing all the bleeding. The good news is that the clot has completely dissolved. The baby looks great, but we did find out that I currently have Type III or partial Placenta Previa . I will be monitored for that frequently.

We WERE going to find out on Valentines Day what the baby's gender is but during today's ultrasound I could tell right away what the baby was. There was no denying it and the ultrasound tech. agreed 90%. So, we are happy to announce that it's a....................

GIRL!
To celebrate we got Madisyn and Maelynn little pink flowers with "It's a girl" printed on a note. Here are some pictures of our 3 Musketeers.

Welcome Madilynn Marie Berg! Nickname: Roo

Hi everyone!

PS. Derek is out now purchasing shot guns. His head is spinning with three proms, three weddings, boyfriends and well.......we all get the idea. Lord help us!

You might be a redneck if..........

2009-01-18T18:46:00.000-08:00

you go see the Monster Trucks every year and call it family tradition.

The first year I went I was pregnant with Madisyn and I fell in love! Grave Digger was the star of the show and I couldn't wait till the next year to see them in action again. We have gone every year since and the trucks never fail to impress. I have seen all kinds of crashes and blown tire fires. Madisyn also shares my enthusiasm for the fun and has gone since she was two years old. Last year was the first time Maelynn went (in my belly of course) and it was also the first time Madisyn stayed awake the entire show. We were especially excited this year because Maximum Destruction was making his first appearance in San Diego and we were following tradition by taking the newest baby for the first time. Maelynn is too young yet to go so we decided to take Madisyn out for special Mom and Dad alone time. Madisyn jabbered out of excitement the entire 45 minute drive.

Needless to say, the show was AWESOME! Maximum Destruction blew a tire and snapped an axel in the first round and we were all sure he was out for the show. Grave Digger showed off and of course won first place (every year) which I think is rigged but it's all good. Then as people started filing out of the stadium (folks, never leave until the show is COMPLETELY over because inevitably you will miss something crazy) we heard a rumble of a truck and Max D entered the stadium and proceeded to tear apart the entire arena including his truck. Just when you thought his truck could not handle anymore on three tires he surprised us all and continued to flip his truck until it could no longer possibly run. He should have taken the prize by far. If his driving wasn't crazy enough, he jumped out of his truck and ran up the stadium slamming his helmet into whatever he could with a mad man look on his face. Then finds one very lucky little boy holding a Maximum Destruction sign and hands over his helmet.

AWESOME!!

(pictures are clickable for larger view)

Some favorite moves!

Demolition Derby time!

El Toro Loco goes crazy!

Grave Digger eats it hard!

Max D lives up to his name!

3 month belly shot.

2009-01-14T20:40:00.000-08:00

Yeah, so you can see my dark circles and blotchy face. I know I look exhausted. Why? Because I am and I don't remember anyone telling me that pregnancy the third time around was supposed to be glamorous. As much as it pains me to see how horribly old and tired I look in my pictures, I know deep down that I'm doing my best and working my hardest with raising the kiddos. The proof is written on my face. The upside, I will have all the time in the world for Botox when the kids are gone and grown. Hell, maybe I'll even throw in a tummy tuck and breast lift. LOL.

Today's appointments

2009-01-12T20:55:00.000-08:00

Today I had two appointments scheduled. Originally it was only one at 11am for my first trimester ultrasound screening but since I spent the majority of my Thursday in the ER, I had to follow up with my OB so they scheduled me for 9am. At my OB's office they did my Glucose tolerance test and drew two vials of blood. Then they checked the baby's heartbeat. Last night I tossed and turned and got maybe three hours total of sleep, much of it broken up. I was having trouble sleeping because of my worries about today's appointments. I was worried something would happen to the baby. Today when it took the Midwife five minutes to locate the baby's heartbeat, normally one minute, I could see Derek out of the corner of my eye bow his head. Just as I saw him do that we heard the familiar swoosh. Blood pressure 109/62, weight 119 1/2.

Then it was off to my ultrasound. This was Derek's first time seeing the baby. We were both excited but I was still nervous. The ultrasound took about 45 minutes which seemed longer with my very full bladder necessary for the testing. But so worth it as we watched the little one do somersaults and at one point rub it's hands together. And, just like his/hers big sisters, hands by the face. Another thumb sucker perhaps? The baby looks great and though the clot is still there, the specialist didn't seem to concerned with it. I am still bleeding but just taking it easy when I can. The doctors assure me that having a heartbeat and being twelve weeks now are a good sign that this pregnancy is going to stay. That is what we pray for.
After the ultrasound I had to give another five vials of blood. By that time I was feeling pretty woozy and so we quickly headed to, ashamed to say, Wendy's for a spicy chicken sandwich. Ironically I just got done telling my Midwife I try to eat healthy. What can you do?!

My appointments today took six hours total and I was exhausted! A very wonderful lady from church, Lori, was so willing to take Monkey last minute for us so that Derek could come with me to these appointments. It was such a blessing and Monkey had a wonderful time. I was anxious to cuddle her (longest time away from her) and she gave us the biggest smile when we arrived to pick her up. Then she proceeded to gnaw on my shoulder. Kisses, I'm sure. LOL. I love that little one! She is at such a fun age.

Once I got home It was time to lay down. Monkey went down for a nap and I laid the ultrasound pictures on the table for Madisyn to see when she got home from school. When I got up from my rest she gave me a kiss on the belly and said, "Squishy!"
Yes.......Derek and Madisyn have now nicknamed the new baby Squishy despite all my complaining. They wont stop and go around the house saying, "I will call you Squishy and you will be my Squishy." Oh boy it is going to be a long six weeks until we find out the gender, yes you heard right! We are finding out the gender if he/she cooperates. Once we know the gender then we will release the baby's name and nickname. I can assure you it will NOT be Squishy forever.

Body (hands by face)

Thursday's saga

2009-01-10T14:36:00.000-08:00

On a small trip out to a deli for lunch, I went to the restroom as Derek ordered our meal and was shocked to see red. Lots of red. After making sure I didn't pass out I quickly grabbed Derek and told him we needed to go. After consulting with my Midwife it was apparent I needed to head to the hospital's Emergency Room ASAP. So I spent 8 hours in the ER listening to two men barf their brains out.

An ultrasound showed a single baby with a good heartbeat. I also noticed something strange as I strained to look at the monitor. Technically the ultrasound Tecs are not allowed to show patients the screen when they come through the ER in case the baby is without a heartbeat. But I was able to get a glimpse of something that was not quite right. A small black area next to my uterus.

My blood work came back good with levels showing the baby is well. Finally after an internal exam I was allowed to go home with the strict warning to see my OB as soon as possible.

The diagnosis: Subchorionic hemorrhage. http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/404971-overview

At the moment I'm trying to take it easy. I did try to do some light housework today but my body started to show signs that I was doing to much so I abandoned the work and found someone to come in and help. My bathrooms/floors really needed a good scrub. I feel bummed that I am not able to do these things myself but keeping this baby safe is now my priority.

I'm scheduled to see my OB on Monday as well as get my first trimester ultrasound screening to see if the baby has signs of Down Syndrome or Spina Bifida. I pray the ultrasound shows a healthy baby and that the clot has dissolved some as well. We are trying to stay positive despite the statistics and all we can do is put this in God's hands and ask to be prepared for whatever outcome is in store for us.

Thank you for all your thoughts and prayers.
God Bless.

Time for catch-up

2009-01-05T20:02:00.000-08:00

So I put blogging on hold for the past six weeks or so. Mainly due to the morning sickness that was more....well, all day sickness. I figured it would be good to just try to relax knowing I would soon be back to my blogging obsession before we know it. Well, I'm back and happy to say feeling MUCH better! The past two days have been nice to me and I have a little more energy. I had my first prenatal appointment today and Derek, Maelynn and I were able to hear the new little one's heartbeat. Confirmation that YES, we did it again! Up until today it was just a few lines on a home test. I'm scheduled for my first ultrasound on Monday and really looking forward to seeing who is in there. This Wednesday I will be eleven weeks however I'm measuring more like fourteen weeks. There could be a few reasons behind that: My uterus didn't get all the way back pre-pregnancy size, I'm further along than expected, or there are multiples. YIKES! We are excited either way. I will be sure to post how my ultrasound appointment goes.

So, the holidays were wonderful! We really enjoyed spending time with family and those extra special moments will stay with us forever. We captured some of them to share with you. Because we did a lot of traveling for Christmas we kept things very low key for New Years. In fact the kiddos were in bed by 7:30pm and Derek and I just quickly ran outside to see a few minutes of the fireworks display and steal a little kiss for 2009. Then we crashed out for the night. We haven't been geeting much sleep lately since Maelynn started cutting her teeth. She started waking at night wanting a bottle for comfort and we made the mistake of giving in to that, so now we are up in the middle of the night trying to break that habit. She seems to be taking it well but still needs her back rubbed a few minutes before she settles for the rest of the night. The times she wakes are less and less each night so we think it is working. Unfourtunetly she has also decided it is time to stop nursing. I was warned things will change due to the pregnancy and she now lets me know she no longer likes the taste of the milk and pulls away. It was a gradual process so I'm not suffering physically, just a bit bummed emotionally. She isn't distressed about it though which does make it a little easier.

Madisyn had her first day back to school today and she came home looking happy. She said she had a good time playing with her friends again and I'm happy to get back on a schedule. Things run so much better when we keep to our schedule. Madisyn is also about to loose her second top tooth. It is hanging by a thread really (UGH so gross!) and I hope it falls out at school so the nurse can handle it. My stomach is too weak for teeth issues. Poor Derek, will have to deal with three mouths losing teeth. I'll be happy to deliver the toothfairy's treats though.

Well, that is about it for now. Stay tuned for the ultrasound appointment. Maybe I will get a few pictures I can share with you. We hope this new year brings everyone peace and joy. HAPPY 2009!

Candy Cane Lane: A little walk-through a local neighborhood known for their beautiful display of Christmas lights.

Christmas morning.

Maelynn's first taste of a candy cane. She wasn't quite sure what to make of it.

Cooking with O'mere: Bug had a go at making her first quiche with Mum. Let me be the first to say....IT WAS DELICIOUS!

Monkey has a cuddle with Uncle Adam.

YouTube fun with Auntie Hannah: Madisyn and Hannah surprised us all on Boxing day with an hilarous video they made. They had us rolling and I'm so proud of how talented and creative Hannah is. I hope you enjoy this as much as we did.

Getting around: Little Monkey is now cruising and at times will even stand alone for a few seconds. We give it another two months and she will be off!

Holiday Smiles

2008-12-07T14:32:00.000-08:00

Christmas Cuties:

Thanksgiving Feast:
(helping Daddy make dinner)

Wishbone Wishes:

A Thanksgiving surprise............

2008-11-30T18:58:00.000-08:00

We hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving. We were out of town (Big Bear) visiting family for a week and we had a great time. It was nice to see everyone. We are so glad to be back though! While were were busy eating turkey, a little surprise was awaiting us............
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Yes......Baby Berg #3 is due July 29th. This is an unexpected, blessed surprise and we are so flattered that God thinks we are suited enough to handle 3 angels and two under 15 months. We are excited and definitely have our hopes on a little boy this time but if we are blessed with another girl then.........well......we might just have to adopt! LOL.
We will be so grateful for any prayers for a safe, happy and healthy pregnancy.

God Bless,
Amy, Derek, Madisyn, Maelynn & Baby Berg

Playing catch up

2008-11-19T17:15:00.001-08:00

So the past month has flown by and in a blink Maelynn went from rolling to full speed crawling! I forgot how fast they crawl. We had to bring out the little outlet covers again. Funny thing is that Maelynn would rather chew on dog and cat food instead. There have been many time we have caught her happily chewing on a piece of dog food, drool dripping down her chin and with a huge grin on her face. I just had to capture it on camera for future blackmail. While Maelynn is busy perfecting her crawl and cutting her bottom two teeth, Madisyn is growing like a weed! Her face is changing again and she is doing so well in school. We are so proud of her and recently she has taken on a new "big girl helper" chore, loading the dishwasher. She makes 50 cents a day by emptying the trash, picking up her room and loading the dishwasher. She does it so well and is totally excited about the 50 cents she earns everyday and Derek is happy HE doesn't have to do the dishes.

Derek has been blessed with work and his company seems to be doing well so far. He stays busy and I try to stay busy with the house and kids. Madisyn has Brownies every other Thursday and I am looking forward to cookie sales......so y'all know where to go for cookies now. LOL.

I'm hoping to get into a photography class at the college this Spring. I really need to learn my camera. I love taking pictures and maybe that will bring some good things in the future if I educate myself.

Well, that is about all for now. I hope this finds everyone happy and healthy.

(Yumm, and if you look close enough to the first picture you will see a line of drool from her chin to the floor)

Cutie....