Mardi Gras . . . in McKinney?

Here in Texas, the Solomon family celebrated Mardi Gras more than we ever have before. We started the celebration last Thursday at a Mardi Gras shindig at the country club. On Friday night we went to the local cajun restaurant which was in the middle of having a week long party. On Sunday, as you can see from the pics, we attended McKinney's annual Krewe of Barkus. In this Mardi Gras parade, dogs are the participants. It was a beautiful day and we had alot of fun! (The golden retriever in the bottom picture is wearing a LSU jersey.)

7 1/2 months, 10 weeks to go!

Things are just ticking along and we are starting to make some big decisions about the baby and the delivery! As for me, I am sleeping better and I am feeling pretty good. Over the last week, I started having Braxton Hicks Contractions. Other than that, there's not much to report!

Childbirth Preparation Seminar

Today, Russell and I attended our Childbirth Preparation class. Russell was a great "delivery partner." He was very attentive and supportive. He even learned how to swaddle the baby.

We learned all about the labor and delivery process and practiced our breathing techniques. We saw videos of births and at the end we took a tour of the labor and delivery floor. This was our second time to tour the hospital. I think we are both feeling more comfortable with the process. Keep us in your prayers! It is getting close!

He's a growing boy!

On Monday night, I felt Jackson moving around. Obviously, this is not the first time that this has happened but it is the first time that I could tell exactly where he was. I could feel his foot pressing on my belly. It was the coolest thing! I missed half of the Bachelor (one of my favorite shows) because I was amazed by Jackson's movements. I must of said "oh my gosh, there he is," about ten times. Also, in the last week or so I have felt Jackson with the hiccups. This part of pregnancy is so exciting!

11 weeks and counting!

This weekend, Russell finished painting the baby's room. It was quite a project but nevertheless it is complete! I also called to check on the crib and it looks like it will be here soon. We still have some minor projects but the nursery is coming together.

As for me, I am doing well. I am having a tough time learning to sleep on my left side but other than that, things are great. As you saw from the picture, I am definitely looking pregnant and everyone around me notices. At work, lawyers like to help me carry my things and no one wants me to pick up anything. At church the usher scrambled to find me a seat even after I insisted I was fine standing. (It was my fault we were a minute late and church was full!) It is a little embarrassing but Russell thought it was hilarious. After all, it got him a seat as well.

Happy Valentine's Day!

Russell's big gift for Valentine's Day was a firepit. He has been wanting one for a long time. We picked it out last weekend and he put it together the same day. He did not get the chance to light it until Thursday night. Have a happy Valentine's Day!

Congrats Rachel and Spencer!

Our buddies, Rachel and Spencer Klotzman, from Victoria told us some exciting news. They will be expecting a bundle of joy next September. We are so excited for them!!!

Jackson's nursery furniture

Here are pics of the nursery furniture we picked out. Russell was making sure the rocker was good and comfortable for those many hours that it will be used! Also, the bedding in the crib is the same bedding we bought for Jackson. We are really excited about the nursery!

THIRD TRIMESTER!

Oh my goodness, can you believe I am already 7 months pregnant!?! I think it is finally sinking in that Baby Jackson will be very very soon! Russell began painting the nursery yesterday and I washed all the sheets for the pack and play and the crib. We are getting ready. Only 12 weeks to go!

LSU rocks on!

After a somewhat disappointing football season, LSU went out with a bang. Obviously, their New Year's bowl win over Georgia Tech was exciting but they also managed to snag the top recruiting class in the nation. Very impressive! Go Tigers!

Doctor update

Yesterday was our glucose screening and doctor appointment. Things are going very well! Hopefully my glucose test will come back okay. As for Jackson, he is doing great. The nurse commented that he moves around alot. I thought so, but since this is our first baby, I had nothing to compare it to. The doctor told me we are entering into our third trimester! I knew it was coming but I did not realize it was already here! We are so excited!

Six months picture - three weeks late!

So here I was at 24 weeks but I am now officially 27 weeks. Only 13 weeks to go!

5 year anniversary

Russell and I met on Superbowl Sunday five years ago!