Blogs from The First Year With Riker

Riker Sean Armstrong
7-19-07
Riker Sean Armstrong was born July 13, 2007 at 2:42pm. He weighed 8 pounds 3 ounces and was 20 1/2 inches long. At around 8:30 Friday morning I woke up to my water breaking. So we went to the hospital, they checked me, confirmed my water broke and said I was 3cm, almost completely effaced but my cervix was still behind. They got me to a room and all hooked up, Dr. Romberg came and checked me and I was already 7cm, completely effaced, and cervix had moved to the front. Then the nurse checks me a little bit later to see how things are progressing and I was 100% ready to go. You could see his head. He was trying to push himself out. After a few short pushes and Dr. Romberg barely making it in there, Riker was born. If giving birth is always this easy I could do it over and over. Total time from water break to birth - 6 hours. They said next time I'd better rush to the hospital so I don't end up giving birth in the car.
He is 6 days old now and such a good baby. We love him so much!
Riker Update
7-25-07
Riker had his 2 week appointment today and we are NEVER going back there again. We like the doctor but the staff was pathetic. For example, while we were sitting in the waiting room one of the people at the front desk dropped something and said, "mother f...". He stopped himself but that is so not appropriate for a pediatrician's office. He'll be going to a different doctor for his 2 month check up. But about Riker, he weighs 8 lbs 5 oz now which is good considering on the 16th he weighed 7 lbs 2 oz (1 lb and 1 oz less than his birth weight). He is now 22 inches long (1 1/2 inches of growth.) and is perfectly healthy. YAY! He is still such a good baby. Everybody keeps saying that will change. So what if it does? Can I not enjoy the good behavior now? As for an update on me...if anybody cares. I am now down to 134.2 lbs. Which is just 5 lbs and 1 oz above my pre-pregnancy weight. Yay. That puts me 14.2 lbs away from my target weight. Yay! I have over 4 months to loose that. I should be able to pull it off. This having a baby thing is so much more than I thought it would be. We love him so much! Our whole family is doing great!
One Month
8-14-07
As of yesterday, Riker Sean Armstrong has been in our lives for one whole month! He's still a very good baby. However, he wasn't a very good host when a friend of mine came over on Sunday. He was very fussy. He's so big. I just can't believe how fast he is growing! He loves to smile and prefers showers with Daddy over baths in his tub. He starting to do a little baby talk. Which is so cute! I just love him! I love being a Mommy. It's the best! I love my guys! My hubby and my son mean the world to me. We are hoping to be back on our own soon! I'd like to be on our own by Christmas but I don't know if thay will happen. Being on your own for almost 3 years and then moving back in with Mom isn't so great. I just want it to be the 5 of us! Sean, me, Riker, Jack, and Jill. As for my pregos. We have Becky who is due on the 6th of September with her first little boy, Aiden Alexander. Then Cori is due with her first, Brooklynn Faye on September 27th, if she doesn't come sooner. After her, Sandra is due to have her 3rd, Joseph Ralph on November 20th. Then Tara is due to have her second little girl (name undecided but I believe the initials will be MRP) on the 10th of December. Last but not least Kristen will be due February 5th (sex of baby currently unknown). Love ya'll!
My Doctor's Appointment, etc.
8-26-07
So, I went to the doctor on Thursday. Just a check up kinda thing. (They like to do that when you push a baby out of your vagina.) I'm all good. Sean and I decided I'm gonna get an IUC. I can't remember to take a pill everyday and not only do condoms suck but you can ask a friend of mine who is currently 6 months pregnant how well they work. So, we decided it's the best choice to prevent another baby for a coupla years. I'm supposed to get this thing on the 6th but I'll have to get a pregnancy test first b/c well....I can't resist! :) Oh, and I currently weigh 132. 9 just 12.9 pounds to go by Christmas! But anyways, life is good just waiting to be on our own again. We might move to an apartment for a year and look for houses while we are there. I really didn't want to but, it's not like it's permanent. I'm hoping we are on our own by Christmas. My Riker Sean is sooo smart today he was playing with his keys and Tigger rattle. He loves the sounds they make. He wants to do so much more than he can. He tries it's just not possible for a child his age. I know he'll be trouble! But, what else can you expect from an Armstrong boy? This being a stay-at-home mom thing is fun but I get bored! Visit me people! Or I am allowed out of the house ya know? Call me and we'll do something!
If you care...
9-7-07
I went to the doctor and got my IUC today. It lasts up to 10 years. We will take it out sooner than that though. More kids are in our future but, not just yet. It was pretty quick getting it put in. I'm having a little discomfort off and on but that should go away soon. I am now just 3.1lbs away from my pre-prego weight and 12.2 pounds away from my target weight by Christmas!
Riker will be 2 months on the 13th. Time is flying! He laughed for the first time today. I was cooking dinner so I missed it. His daddy said it was the cutest thing! He loves to baby talk and can't stand being still. We love him so much. He's perfect! I went to Lowes today and saw the grosky girl I went to school with. I was writting a check and she touched my son. I cleaned his hands and face right away. She has always had this crush on Sean which wouldn't be a big deal if it wasn't one of those "scary crushes". It's more of an obsession. She kept saying "this is Sean's son" and said, "he kinda looks like his daddy" as if to question if he was in fact Sean's son. Then, knowing full well we are married she asked if we ever got married. I told her yes, we would be celebrating our 2 year wedding anniversary soon. She didn't like that too much. Girl is a freak. And the thing that really sucks is I had to write a check since I can't find my card. Which means the loon has our address. Great. My pregos, Becky - Good luck with your little boy. I bet your glad Aiden be here by the end of the weekend! Sandra (my sis-in-law) has had some issues with her pregnancy but I just know everything will work out and Joseph will be here around November 20th! Tara - You are so blessed to be having another little girl. I can't wait to meet MRP. I know she'll be beautiful. She'll be the best Christmas present you ever had!
Kristen - I can't believe you are having a baby! I am so excited! I hope it's a boy so Riker can have a friend to play with! I can't wait for you to find out! Less than a week left! I am super happy for you and I'm always here if you need me! Oh, and Brooke, Riker says your so pretty and he can't wait to see you! He bought you something! :) Haley - I miss you! Just so everybody knows, MY HUBBY IS AN AMAZING MAN, HUSBAND, AND FATHER! Oh, and I nearly forgot he's DARN SEXY! ~Stevie Rae Armstrong~ Wife to Sean Tyler Armstrong & Mother to Riker Sean Armstrong. The two best guys in the whole world!
So frustrated right now!
9-10-07
Before I start. This is not meant to bash anyone. These are MY beliefs about OUR child. If you don't agree, that's cool. If you do, that's cool too. This is just a vent. I am against thumb sucking. I don't like it and I don't find it cute. It's my opinion that you do not incourage this. I do not want our child doing it. I know people who needed outside intervention to stop. I know of kids who did it until ridiculous ages. I know of kids who since it took forever to stop had dental issues. I don't like pacifiers either. But given the choice. I'd give him a pacifer. Because, pacifiers can be taken away. You can't take away your childs thumb. My child has just started doing this today. This pisses me off. Prior to today he only tried a handful of times. I would move his hand and he wouldn't try again and he only did it when he was really hungry not just because. Bottom line, I'm frustrated as hell right now!
2 months old!
9-13-07
Riker Sean is 2 months old today! He is such a good baby. I think he is the perfect mix of his Mommy and Daddy. He baby talks all the time now, holds his head up for long periods of time, and messes with his hands a lot. He's on a pretty good schedule at night. He loves his mobile, it makes him smile. He smiles a lot. He is so perfect. As for an update on the hubby and I. We are good. We're looking to move into our own place in March. It's a ways away but, hey at least it's happening. I was planning on being here six months but 9 isn't too far away from that. I'm supposed to start watching a friend of mines daughter in November. That will be fun! That's about all for now! No more babies being born until November....what a drag! Oh, and for the record. I'm guessing a boy for Kristen (she finds out today). I was wrong about Cori and Tara though, so I'm prolly wrong again.
Riker's Shots
9-25-07
I took Riker for his 2 month shots today. He got 2 shots in his left leg, 1 shot in his right leg, and an immunization by mouth. He cried so hard he stopped making noise. I've never seen him so upset. I'm so glad Sean came with us. I would have hated to go alone. He has to go back November 27th. He doesn't feel good at all. Poor baby. I gave him some Tylenol but he's still a little warm. I hate him being so upset and me not being able to make him feel better.
As of last week he weighs 13lbs. What a big boy! I'll update more later.
October of 2006
10-1-06
Around this time last year the hubby and I made our little boy. If you don't know how, go ask your mom. lol. Now I look at him and he's getting so big! He goes to bed around 11pm every night and doesn't wake up until 7ish to eat, then he goes back to bed until around 11am. He's getting really good at keeping his head up and gets more and more talkative everyday. I can't wait until he says his first real word. He is always smiling! I try to keep looking cute. He wears a lot of button up shirts. His Daddy wants him looking preppy. Alot of women say, "I'm so glad I don't have a boy. There is nothing cute for them to wear." Clearly, you are retarded. Well maybe not retarded just ignorant to what is out there. I can say this b/c I used to be one of you. You would prolly notice the cute boy clothes if you had one. I notice both b/c my friend has a little girl and I'm always looking to see cute stuff for her. Plus I have like 100 nieces and other friends with little girls. I keep getting asked about posting pics and sorry. Neither Sean nor I have posted any pics of Riker other than ultrasound pics. At this point, we don't plan to.
3 months!!!
10-11-07
So, I know he won't be 3 months until Saturday but we will be in Houston. Since I doubt anything huge will happen before then I am going to go ahead and do a 3 month update now.
Riker weighs 14.6lbs, which is average. He is 24 1/2 inches tall, which is above average.
I have lost all of my Riker weight. But I still have 9 lbs to go by Christmas to put me at 120lbs. Anybody have any weight loss tips? I'm open to all suggestions! Riker can sit up pretty good. He needs help of course. But he does damn good for his age! He's always trying to get up. He gets pissed that he can't! He played in his jumper the other day an he actually knows what to do now! He's not a wiz at it yet but he makes the frog spin and moves the rings! I'm so proud! Oh, and he just started eating 5oz bottles! I love him, I love him, I love him! He's great! I can't wait until next month when he starts cereal! More to come!
Houston
10-14-07
So, we went to Houston on Friday to see Joey, Sandra, and the kiddos. (Joey is Sean's oldest brother/my favorite brother-in-law.) Riker did awesome on his first long car ride! Saturday was the baby shower and we finally found out the baby's name, Emily Elaine. Elaine is Sean's step-mom's middle name so that's sweet of them. She will be born on November 7, 2007. The whole weekend was great except she was there on Saturday being a total bitch as usual. Actually way more than usual, it was ridiculous. And most of you know who I'm talking about when I say she. Oh and Grandma Rosey was there. I love her! Riker got to meet some of his Aunt Sandra's family and some Armstrong's he'd never met before. Plus, this was his first time meeting his Uncle Joey and Aunt Sandra. Uncle Joey could make him laugh. He was loved on my everybody and Uncle Joey got to feed him. When Grandpa Joe got there though, he didn't care about anybody else. He got so excited. He doesn't love anybody as much as his Mommy and Daddy but Grandpa Joe is pretty close behind. Sean thinks he likes Joe and Joey so much b/c they are like him. I agree. He was pretty much always being held so I had a pretty relaxed Saturday. But you know me, even if I'm not holding him I'm keeping an eye on him. Overall, we had a great weekend and I hope to see them again soon. But the events aren't over yet. We are back in Round Rock and Mike's 50th Birthday Party is today. It's a suprise but I feel safe saying something on here b/c, I don't see him getting on myspace. So, we will be going over there this afternoon. Oh, and I got a new phone number. Message me if I haven't gotten it to you.
Bye ya'll!
My Favorite
10-14-07
Just so you know there is point in reading this if you don't know Glenn and Joey. So, Miss Winnifred mentioned to me my blog were I refer to Joey as my favorite brother-in-law. Well, he is. Sorry. Glenn and Joey would be dead tied. But, Glenn doesn't like me. Plain and simple. He thinks I am a bitch. That's okay. I can handle that. So, it would be kinda like someone calling somebody their best friend when the other person would refer to them as someone they hardly know. And another thing I think everybody else cares and I know that Glenn could care less. Glenn's just that kind of guy. I could call him a total ass (which he's not, Glenn's one of the nicest guys out there) and he would give a crap less. Sorry, just had to say all that! Bye ya'll.
'My Fun Morning' Thanks to Jack & Riley!
10-18-07
So, I go to put some Halloween decorations outside and Jack runs out the door. Which I didn't worry about b/c Jack just stays in the yard and comes in when I tell him to. But then out runs Riley and Jill. Riley runs out down the sidewalk and Jack follows. They were out of site almost immediatley. Since Jill is lazy she just went to go lay in the yard. I go inside grab the stroller and Riker and put Jill in the back yard. Then here comes Jack and Riley running down the street. Peeing on every tree they can find. I'm outside yelling "Jack Tyler" and "Riley James" (b/c we are retarded and our dogs have middle names) looking like a moron. I get Jack in after a few yells. Then it's back out to get Riley. I stood out there for almost ten minutes before he came in.
Fun morning so far. Thanks Jack and Riley!
2,2,2,2
10-22-07
It is officially 2 months, 2 weeks, and 2 days until our 2 year wedding anniversary! Sorry....I just liked all the twos and I'm excited! On January 7th, 2008 we will have been married for 2 years, together for 3 1/2 years and known each other for about 12 years!
November 3rd
11-3-07
Today Miss Haley Rae is 20! YAY for her! Ever since Riker learned to roll over he seems to think he should do it everytime he lays down. I go to change his diaper and he rolls over and sticks his butt in the air. He is a goofy child. He scooted across the floor yesterday! YAY! He's going to be a fast learner! I crawled at 5 months and walked at 8 months. Maybe he'll do the same or better! Riker's first Halloween went well. We dressed him up as Batman showed him off to one of Sean's friends, took him to Cori's, and to a Fall Fest. It was fun showing him off all night!
Make an Informed Choice
11-7-07
I have been asked my a number of friends and family about my IUC. What it is like and why I picked it. So I am going to put it in a blog to be read that way everyone's questions are answered. First off the reason I choose the Paraguard over the Mirena is b/c the Mirena CAN affect your breast milk due to the hormones. Yes. I am aware that it uses progesterone and not estrogen like most other forms of birth control. But guess what, still a hormone. I looked at several medical websites and read the handouts and talked to my doctor. The information I got was that "breastfeeding women should be aware the synthetic hormone in the Mirena IUD will be passed to the baby in her breast milk." Also, that not always but in some cases it has prevented women from having a full milk supply. The Paraguard was suggested to me by 2 lactation consultants at Georgetown Hospital for those reasons. If you don't plan to breastfeed none of that matters. But some of the below information might. According to the Paraguard website "ParaGard® is 100% hormone-free and 99.4% effective. ParaGard® does not contain any hormones and doesn't cause any hormonal side effects, like weight gain, bloating, or mood swings. That's why it's a great choice for women who prefer not to use hormones or can't for health reasons. And it's more effective than typical use of hormone-based methods like the Pill, patch, or ring. In fact, ParaGard® is the only hormone-free birth control that's over 99% effective." I like it because it allows me to give my son breastmilk and it won't cause any hormonal side effects. Also because I don't have to remember it. I don't plan on getting pregnant again until 2009 so this is great. I don't even have to think about it until then. But PLEASE ya'll ask you doctor don't just ask your looney friends. Thats good for opinions not for decision making. Do the smart thing, ASK A DOCTOR. Make an informed choice! What's right for others may not be right for you.
My Sweet Hubby
11-8-07
Tuesday night my hubby bought me some of my favorite flowers and got me a card. Why? Just because he loves me. Isn't he sweet?! I love him so much and just think 1 month 4 weeks and 2 days from now we will be celebrating our 2 year wedding anniversary! YAY!
Riker Sean is 4 months!
11-15-07
Riker turned 4 months on Tuesday. He is currently weighing in at 16lbs and is a little over 25 inches long! He started cereal on Sunday which was just a few days before he turned 4 months but Sean wanted to be there so we did it early. First feeding he wasn't into it at all but now he loves it. We are going to start giving him foods next week. Starting with sweet potatoes on Thanksgiving! (I'm a nerd. I know.) Today Riker got his 4 months shots and did so much better than last time. A lot less crying. So far I can't tell if he is going to do better when it comes to the fever and discomfort but we will see! Other things: Since 2 months he's been rolling over but now he doesn't like to be on anything but his tummy. He loves rolling over when I change his diaper, he'll laugh. He's started scooting occasionally but no crawling yet. Can't wait!
Riker and Brooke Day One
11-19-07
Short and sweet blog about Riker and I's first day with Brooke Lynn! Today was my first day watching Brooke. It went great. She's such a sweetie. Riker did so good sharing Mommy all day. The three of us played on the floor, they hung in their bouncers, we went for a walk to go check the mail, and we read like 5 books. All in all a good day. Cori, you have a sweet little girl and I'm glad I get to watch her for you. :) I'm prolly going to get a very part-time job to get me out of the house every once in awhile but we'll see.
Sitting Up? WHAT!?!?
11-21-07
So, last night Riker was chillin' on his boppy while I was running his bath. Sean was up doing stuff and Aaron was sitting on the bed with him. Then Aaron was like hey he's sitting up and Sean told him that Riker's always trying to sit up but never actually does it. We didn't bother to look b/c we assumed Aaron was just telling us that Riker was trying to sit up. Aaron's like wow he sits up. We looked and sure enough he was actually sitting up! Unassisted. He had pushed himself up off the boppy and was sitting unsupported! Sean and I start freaking out and of course Aaron's like I told you so. So, Riker's first time to sit up was witnessed by neither Mommy or Daddy but by Uncle Aaron! :( But hey! We got to see the second time! Oh, and Riiker just ate a bottle and guess what? All by himself. He held it the whole time! I handed it to him and then picked it up when he was done. The rest he did himself! YAY FOR RIKER! He's so smart and he's barely 4 months! Oh, and today is day 3 with Riker and Brooke and all is still well! I think they are actually better together than they are seperately.
Thanksgiving and Such
11-29-07

This Thanksgiving we went to Sean's dad's. Joey and Sandra came down and we got to meet the new baby! All four babies where in the same house. Isabella: 6 months, Riker: 4 months, Xzavier: 3 months, and Emily: 3 weeks. Plus 3 other grandchildren! Fun stuff! Riker started his baby foods that day and is loving it! So far his favorite seems to be pears. He is getting really good at holding his bottle and scooting. I can't wait until he crawls! :) Does anybody know of a good place to get baby long sleeved shirts that aren't sisssy? No offense to anyone but we don't think onsies should be worn in public past a certain age especially by boys. Plus, Riker looks tacky in them. That's why he only wears them and home if ever! Let me know if you know of anywhere. We'd like to do away with onsies by 6 months! I'm so excited about Riker's 1st Christmas. When it's slightly warmer I want to go to the trail of lights and I can't wait to take him to see Santa! We will be spending Christmas Eve in San Antonio and Christmas Day here at Sean's mom's. Can't wait!
Riker's 4 Month Doctor's Appointment
11-30-07
So, Riker had his 4 month appointment today! He is 26 inches long (90%), 16.9lbs(75-90%). He is meeting or exceeding their expectations when it comes to rolling over, playing, etc. My boy is awesome!
SANTA!!!
12-3-07
Riker went and got his picture taken with Santa on Saturday. He was so cute and not freaked out at all! He smiled and everything! He rocked a onsie and some cute pants and new shoes. I had to settle with a onsie b/c I couldn't find a good shirt and I wanted something he hadn't worn before. He was soooo cute! He wore this cute Santa hat his Grandma (my mom) bought him. I'm going to hate when Christmas is over b/c he won't be able to wear it anymore! :( Funny thing happend while we were in line here it goes. Kid(4yrs old): "This is the line to see Santa." Sean: "I thought this was the line to the bathroom." Kid: "Noooo...it's the line to see Santa." Sean: "Well I told all the people behind me it was the line to the bathroom." so.......the kid says, "I thought this was the line to the....(grabs crotch with one hand throws the other hand in the air) BATHROOM!!!!
Boys are so much fun! :)
It's a Baby! Not a Choice!
12-4-07
In September 1993, Brenda Pratt Shafer, a registered nurse with 13 years of experience, was assigned by her nursing agency to an abortion clinic. Since Nurse Shafer considered herself "very pro-choice," she didn't think this would be a problem. She was wrong. This is what Nurse Shafer saw:"I stood at the doctor's side and watched him perform a partial-birth abortion on a woman who was six months pregnant. The baby's heartbeat was clearly visible on the ultrasound screen. The doctor delivered the baby's body and arms, everything but his little head. The baby's body was moving. His little fingers were clasping together. He was kicking his feet. The doctor took a pair of scissors and inserted them into the back of the baby's head, and the baby's arms jerked out in a flinch, a startle reaction, like a baby does when he thinks that he might fall. Then the doctor opened the scissors up. Then he stuck the high-powered suction tube into the hole and sucked the baby's brains out. Now the baby was completely limp. I never went back to the clinic. But I am still haunted by the face of that little boy. It was the most perfect, angelic face I have ever seen."But what about if the baby had been aborted at a younger age, say 6 weeks? When the baby is this young, doctors use the Saline Method, where they inject a salty saline solution into the mother's womb. You would think it would just poison the baby, but it actually burns it to death. Even though the baby is so young, on ultrasounds of the abortion, the fetus is seen pulling away from the poison as it is injected...obviously wanting to stay alive.(The baby is intelligent enough to move away from the pain...but the child can't escape it)Think about that before you say that unborn children can't feel pain.PASS THIS ON IF YOU BELIEVE ABORTION IS WRONG. Life is life, no matter how small. A baby cries for it's first and last time when it's aborted you can deny but its true. A baby is a living thing. thats like killing one of your friends!!!
I WANTED A BOY! (Read the whole thing before you pissed.)
12-4-07
I keep getting asked, "Did you want a boy?" "Oh, wow! Where did you find that it's so cute? I never see anything cute for a boy." I keep getting told, "Maybe you'll have a girl next time." "There are no cute clothes for boys." "I was soooo happy when I finally had a girl." "I'm so glad I never had a boy." "Boys are so hard." "Good luck potty training." "Boys always pee on you."
People feel the need to apologize or try to make me feel better because I'm "stuck with a boy". Like he's a disease or something. Strangers mostly. First of all, I feel bad for their sons they are or are going to be so screwed up. Second of all, SCREW YOU!!! Did I want a boy? YES! I wanted a boy first. I was soooo excited when I took my draino test and it said I was having a boy. Then when my doctor confirmed I was sooo ready to go a register for the little guy. I had a boy name picked out months before we picked a girl name. Where does he get his clothes? Well cheap ass/lazy ass(whichever applies), I hardly find things at your Wal-Marts and your Targets. So I have to go to yor Carters, Oskosh, etc. Yes, they are harder to find than girl clothes. Why? B/C all you have to do to make a girl look cute is throw a dress on her and she looks like a princess.
Maybe you'll have a girl next time. Maybe I will. I hope I do. I would love to have a little girl. Little girls are beautiful. I was sooooo happy when I finally had a girl. Good for you, rudeness. Where are your sons so I can tell them their sister is your favorite and they are dissappointments. AND some people are happy to finally have a child or never get to and you weren't happy til you had a girl? Selfish moron. I'm so glad I never had a boy. I'm glad too b/c he would be unwanted by your ungrateful ass. Boys are so hard. Boys play hard. Boys get hurt. Big deal. I'm over it, you should be too. Good luck potty training. First of all, he's 4 1/2 months, I have time. Second of all, I am aware it will be harder than with a girl. Girls just have to sit down boys have a doober to deal with. My mom had both. I was potty trained at 18months(Mostly b/c I wanted to sit on the potty and read like my Dad.) My brother was much older. And you know what if we talking about crap way in advance. Good luck when your daughter gets pregnant!
Boys always pee on you. So do girls. I have friends who's daughters have peed on them more than Riker has peed on me. Riker has peed on me because I've decided to turn around and talk to Sean or my mother instead of finishing his diaper change. My fault. Is this a bash a people with daughters? HELL NO! I love little girls. I have 9 beautiful nieces(McKenna, Rylee, Emilee, Laura, Emily, Isabella, Jazmin, Darian, and Adriana) and I love them all dearly. In their little dresses and their bows. They are wonderful. I love when I get to do they hair all pretty and pick out their outfits(this mostly applies to the McKenna and Rylee since I've dealt with them most). I also have friends with some beautiful little girls. Brooke, Mackenzie......the list can go on much further...Madison, Ava........if you weren't mentioned it's not on purpose. I also have friends with adorable little boys. Javon, Aiden, Dylan, Ethan, Tristan.... Plus some pretty handsome nephews; Joshua, Xzavier, and Xavier. Do I think everyone is cheap for shopping and Target and Wal-Mart? Again, HELL NO! I shop there. I have things from there, Sean does, and so does Riker. My point is the people who wont go anywhere else for boys when they can't find stuff there. Get off your lazy ass and drive to the outlets or something! Besides I would never diss Target! I love that place. If it closed I would die. Will I be dissappointed when I have a girl? NO WAY! I can't wait! When/if I get my little Londyn Rae. I will love her to death. I will go to Target for cute clothes. But I wouldn't be relieved she's not a boy. NOPE! I won't love/like Riker less b/c now I have a girl. Bottom line. I have a son, not cancer and I love my son more than anything. I wouldn't trade him for the world. I hope to and can't wait to have a little girl but if I never do....it won't keep me up at night. The next person to say any of the above mentioned stuff is probably going to get an earfull. I'm so happy with my little guy. Riker Sean Armstrong is what I wanted and I am not dissappointed! So shut your mouth! Oh, and if it weren't for boys. You people woldn't have your husbands and daughters.
I just feel like blogging...
12-10-07
So, there is only one person who was prego when I was who still needs to have her baby....Kristen. She is going to have a boy next month. Yay! Watching Brooke is going well. I think they've had like two grumpy days. I so could have had twins. Minus the first night home. I've taken them out once and I got asked about 100 times if they were twins. I swear people are dumb, example: "How old are they?""He's 4 1/2 months and she's 3 months." (Right there they should get that they aren't twins but no, it keeps going.) "How did you manage that?"
"I only gave birth to the boy."(So they definately get it now, right? Wrong!) "Oh, they aren't twins are they?" "Nope." "Huh. Okay." Even when Cori and I are together we get asked. I just want to be like yes they are twins and one of us is such a poor mother than the other one bought a second stroller and diaper bag and pushes around the one that her friend can't take care of. I mean if I am alone with them it's okay to ask but when I saw they aren't it should stop there. But it's like people want me to go..."Oh yeah. I forgot. They are both mine. Thanks for reminding me." Sorry for this blog. I was just bored. There will be a new one of Thurdsay when Riker turns 5 MONTHS!
Adriana
12-11-07
So, my sister is a total piece of work. She's been into everything. Gone to jail numerous times. Well she has finally landed herself prison time, 4 years. She has two daughters. Darian Jade who is 9 and Adriana who is 4. Darian lives with her dad so she's not an issue but Adriana doesn't have a dad to go to. My sister has nobody. Therefore she was taken by CPS. My dad found out and he wants to get her but he doesn't know if they will let him have her since he lives in North Carolina. So that leaves, my mother. We don't have anything to do with my sister but that's still their grandchild and they can't leave her in foster care. Who knows what will happen. Bottom line I am glad she got prison time and just wish it wasn't affecting an innocent 4 year old girl.
Adriana Part 2
12-11-07
So, my sister was arrested for drug trafficking. She was charged 1st and 2nd degree charges and will serve no less than 28 months. She will never get her parental rights back. My dad is currently on his way here and will arrive at 9:10. CPS will meet him and my mother at the airport and if everything thing goes as planned they will turn Adriana over to my dad.
Adriana Part 3
12-14-07
So, CPS meet my Dad at the airport on the 11th and handed over Adriana and all her records. My Dad and Adriana stayed with us up until today when they flew to NC. Tuesday night we stayed up pretty late. Wednesday my Dad went to see my sister and make sure everything is taken care of. That night we went to Wal-Mart to get a tree. Me, Sean, Riker, Mom, James, Dad, Adriana, and Rickey. (Yep...the neighboor who wants my Mom. Fun. Fun.) Thursday Dad, Adriana, Riker, and I went to Santa since Adriana had never been. They took a pic together. Too cute! Then we went and got JC's Christmas present and visited my Mom at work. That night the kids decorated the tree and my Dad and I went and got Pluckers. YUM! Then they left this morning and have been on the plane for about half an hour now. Adriana is a very sweet girl but she needs some attention! I had fun doing her hair and picking out her clothes. I love her! But just a little note, my sister is a piece of crap and should not be a mother! My Dad and I have different views on her. He's her Dad and doesn't want to see the truth. He wants to see his 'sweet little Lori'. I'm her sister. The sister she abandoned...repeatedly. The sister she took on a drug run (without my knowledge at the time). I think after God knows how many arrests in 8 years she should finally get some real time. I hope she sits there all 4 years! She NEEDS to. Bottom line: Adriana Celeste is a great kid and deserves so much more than her drug dealing mom.
5 Months Ya'll!
12-14-07
So, yesterday Riker turned 5 months. YAY! Updates: He can sit up for a few minutes. He decides this is fun to do in his duck tub when you are trying to bathe him. He loves to be tickled.Mommy singing and dancing is funny. (This only happens in front of Riker and sometimes Brooke b/c I'm sure everybody would get a good laugh.) He is beginning to crawl. He pushes his legs forward and then kinda throws the rest of his body. He loves curious buddies movies. There is more but that's the big stuff. He loves his friend Brookie. But I have to keep him a little bit away from her b/c he likes to grab her feet and hands. Well, just thought everybody needed an update.
Da-Da
1-1-08
Riker said his first word today, it was "Da-Da". He said it like 4 or 5 times in a row! Such a smart boy! We celebrate our 2 year wedding anniversary on Monday which means we've been together for 3 1/2 years. On the 13th Riker will be 6 months. This will be a good month! :)
Bring on the Beer
1-3-08
Here's my day as of 10:00am. Woke up at 5:10am to take Sean to work. He forgot his phone so now I won't be able to reach him all day. Pumped for 20 minutes. Went back to bed for about an hour. Woke up to my precious boy talking to me and then smelled a disgusting smell coming from the bathroom. My dogs had pissed and crapped in there crates. (Last night they got in the outside trash and got ahold of human food for the first time.) Jill's back end is soaking wet. So I put both dogs outside and threw their crates out there. Jill's crate spilled. So now I have to bathe her, clean both crates, and the porch. Brooke gets here. Riker and Brooke eat their breakfast, have a bottle then get fussy b/c they are tired. JC goes to take a bath then comes out and tells me he can't turn the hot water off. I go in there I can't turn it off either. So I call my mom and ask her what to do. She says get a washrag and turn it hard as I can. Well I do and it keeps running. I call her back and some lady puts me on hold then says can she call you back. I tell her no, I need to talk to her now. Brooke and Riker are pretty pissy at this point so I pick up Brooke and put her to sleep. After she's asleep I go in the bathroom to try again just for the hell of it. My brother who was already told he wouldn't be taken a bath at this point is still standing there (it's been at least 10 minutes) waiting in his towel. I ask him what he is doing and he says I don't know what to do. I say to get out of the bathroom and go put some damn clothes on b/c he wont be bathing right now. He walks out of the bathroom and stands in the hall still confused. Saying he doesn't know what to do. So I get pissed and tell him to go to his room and put some clothes on then make a comment about him not understanding then simple crap I am telling him. Then I go back in the bathroom to try yet again and notice his clothes are all over the place. I go to his room to tell him to pick his stuff up and he is sitting in the floor still in his towel. I get furious b/c he begins telling me he still doesn't know what to do. So I say, "PUT YOUR FREAKING CLOTHES ON! YOU WILL NOT BE TAKING A BATH RIGHT NOW! WHAT IS SO HARD ABOUT THAT ARE YOU FREAKING RETARDED?" I know some of you are like wow, you are mean but JC is plenty old enough to understand something as simple as put your clothes on. As of right now the water is still running (it's been like 45 minutes or better) so my mom's water and gas bill is going through the roof. But both babies are asleep at the moment so I will have a moment to breath....spoke to soon I hear Brooke but she's not yelling so hopefully she'll be nice. So seriously, throw beer on me! It wasn't as bad. As a result my hubby got pissed, I got pissed, and I had to take a shower. This day has so much I have to do to take care of the problems and it's only 10:15am.
17 lbs 8 ozs
1-4-08
I took Riker to the doctor today b/c Daddy was afraid he might be sick. He's not but while we were there we found out that he weighs 17 lbs 2 oz. Also today Cori and I bought some super cute high chairs! It was a pain getting them in our cars but it was worth it. Then the 5 of us (Me, Sean, Riker, Cori, and Brooke) went to Cici's. While we were there my son pooped and needed to be changed. I went to the bathroom to do so and they didn't have a changing table. So there was only one option since I don't believe you should ever make your child sit in their poop. I walking over to an empty booth in the corner, put down his changing pad, and changed him right there. The whole time he's yelling, "Da-Da" loud. It was too funny!
2 Years Ya'll!
1-7-08
Two years and a coupla hours ago Sean and I got married. As of today we have been together for exactly 3 years and 6 months. Yay us! Last night we went to dinner and Cheddars and then went to the movies and saw Juno. Which we both thought was a good movie. Very cute. Tonight we are gonna hang at home and watch a movie of Sean's choice and do my new Marilyn Monroe puzzle. (I'm a dork. I love puzzles.) Well, I just wanted to let everybody know! I love you, Sean Tyler!
6 Months Old
1-13-08
Riker Sean is 6 months old today. Half a year has passed. As of a couple of days ago he can crawl but he won't do it if he sees you watching. We got his pics last night and he is the most photogenic little boy. He was so tired but he still delivered a smile every pic. He is the best little boy. He hasn't even had a diaper rash. He eats Gerber number 2 foods and started drinking juice out of a sippy cup a few days ago. Big boy!
10 Random Facts About Me You Never Wanted To Know
1-18-08
10 Weird Facts About Me That You Never Wanted To Know:
1. I am addicted to Target. I know Cori and Winnie already knew that but I have to go to Target at least once a week even if I don't buy anything. I can spend hours there.
2. I will be voting for the first time this year and I'm voting Huckabee.
3. I hate needles. I cry like a baby. I have actually thrown a fit at a hospital before.
4. I have NEVER gone to the hospital or doctor alone before. The one time Sean couldn't go I brought Riker and talked to him the whole time. I have refused treatment until Sean arrived.
5. Termite wood and those squiggles in the road make me sick. I hate it I can't look or know about it.
6. Contary to popular belief I can count everyone I've "been with" on one hand.
7. I laugh at other people's misfourtune if I don't like them.
8.I love taking naps with Riker. I almost never do but when I can I love it.
9. I think a lot of stay at home mom's are lazy. They are the reason that ppl. think all stay home moms sit on their butt all day.
10. I pump 5 times a day.
Cranky
1-21-08
So, Riker and Brooke are sleeping. I am very cranky and unhappy. Sean is leaving in the morning and not coming back until Friday. That means sleeping alone for 3 nights. This is not something I do well. Last time he was gone for one night I didn't go to sleep until like 4:30 in the morning. He might have to go back Monday which will piss me off. It's for work. It's training. But it still is a huge pain in the butt for me. I will have no car Tuesday-Friday. I have a doctor's appointment Thursday and Cori's taking me but it's just irritating. I'm just pissy about the whole situation!
Quick Little Note
1-22-08
My last blog was me complaining about my husband being gone til Friday night. Does this upset me? Yes. But then I realized I have people on my friends list who have spent almost a year and more than a year without their husbands because they were serving our country. So I feel a little selfish. Sorry. I still miss my hubby though but I just wanted to say that ya'lls nights alone are much appreciated!
Tara will prolly be the only one to truly understand.
1-25-08
B/C she's a babycenter user too. I just have a feeling that I am about to get in a fight with strangers on babycenter.com. I have once before b/c there was this lady on there being soooo hateful against mom's who work saying things like, "You shouldn't have kids just to have them raised by someone else." Well I took offense to this b/c while I get to stay home with Riker I have several friends who don't b/c the have no choice but to work. So I said that. Another girl who's screen name was like cookie86 got pissy and said that it's not her fault she's so mean it's b/c she had a miscarriage (later turned out she didn't...she just thought so and hadn't seen a doctor). I addressed the girl as cookie since that was her screen name and I did not know her real name and said that a persons prior views have nothing to do with having one or five miscarriages that the girl was just rude and hateful so she went off on me for calling her cookie. Then someone else on the board called her out for being stupid for getting mad at me for addressing her by her screen name the thread got locked and that was that. But wow! How off topic did I just get? ANYWAYS! Current issue. There was this thread posted today where a girl's pedi was telling her to feed her 6 month old an outrageous amount of food. I posted my opinion and said something about how I was told to stop feeding Riker if he woke up in the middle of the night b/c it was out of habit not hunger. So a girl asked me what I was doing to wean him of this and I told her. Well instead of giving him a bottle I put him back to sleep by rocking, etc. So this other girl says to me how she couldn't imagine not taking the 20 minutes to feed he child at night to comfort them. That's when I got pissed. b/c first of all it takes a lot longer to put you kid to sleep without a bottle than with one. So I tried to be nice so that nobody else got offended but let that lady know I thought she was lazy b/c she only has one baby too. I wrote, "It's probably harder to spend so much time in the night when you have an older child too. I know it's my fault he still wakes up at night b/c i was LAZY. It was easier to let him eat and then lay him down than it is to actually try to put him back to sleep. I have the energy to make the EFFORT b/c I'm just a mom of one. I do have my friends baby girl mon-fri. But she's younger than my son so she doesn't require as much as say a toddler or older." I just have a feeling this will result in another locked thread. I know this seems like a lot of drama to have with strangers but it's a website made to share opinions and when those opinions don't mix ppl. get mad.
She can be one smart cookie!
3-3-08
I took this from Tara's blog. I really want Huckabee but even more than that I don't want Obama. I don't know yet what I am gonna do tomorrow but I feel this should be read before you decide. On Tuesday when they are asking everyone to go out and vote..vote for Hillary. It doesn't matter if you don't want her to be president, but if you REALLY REALLY REALLY don't want Obama to get Texas' delegates or nomination, vote for her.It doesn't mean that she will be president come November, you can vote between who the Republicans chose and whoever gets nominated for the Democratic party.This is JUST to keep Obama from getting the nomination and keeping him OFF the ballot in November. You want Hillary to get the democratic vote for Texas. Most people would say that we don't want Obama to be president because he's black. thats not it at all.The reasons I personally don't want Obama to be president of the United States are:Barack Hussein Obama will NOT recite the Pledge of Allegiance nor will he show any reverence for our flag. While others place their hands over their hearts, Obama turns his back to the flag and slouches. Do you want someone like this as your PRESIDENT?
Update on Life
3-3-08
So, the babies are napping and I have done all of the nonsense around the house that needs to be done. I am taking a moment to update everyone on life. We should be moving by the end of April. I hope! We could be moving next door to our neighboor now, Rickey. We'll see. We might be getting rid of that stupid Fusion and getting a 2006(?) Toyota Tundra. It will be more on gas but less in payments and less in MIL headache. God, it feels good getting to say that. I recently deleted my SIL so now I have 100% freedom in my blogs! My hubby took me shopping for some new clothes, a bathing suit for the summer, and bras. I am no longer a 36 E! Thank God! My boobs are still not as small as I would like but now my size is easier to find. We spent a little money on ourselves but made sure more was spent on Riker. We also finally got an eye exam and glasses. We needed that! As for my Riker he is 7 1/2 months, 27 inches long, and weighs 18.4 lbs. His list of accomplishments is longer than I have time to type since he is awake now. I update more later! :)
Walking Works!
3-17-08
I’m feeling pretty good right now because I just found out I lost 3 pounds! Heck yes! I still have 11 pounds to go to reach my goal of 115 but that’s a dent! So yay me! What have I been doing? Walking everywhere! Instead of going to the park right across the street I’ve been going to the one by Clay Madison. I take Riker to the park everyday as long as it isn’t cold or raining. Any chance I get to walk, I do. I enjoy it and hey it’s working so I’m happy! I want to loose at least 6 pounds by May so anybody want to walk/work out with me! Let me know! TTYL!
New Car
4-2-08
So, we got a brand new 2008 Jeep Compass on Monday. YAY! We took home two other cars before we picked this one. It’s in my name not frickin’ Rhonda’s so now she has NOTHING to hold over my head. We owe her nothing! We had the Fusion for 2 years, we had one late payment b/c of the postal service and we have never heard the end of it. But now we have our own car in my own name and it’s a small SUV like I wanted. Gas is good. Our payments are $27.00 higher but our insurance went down over $50.00 so we still save money. The payments were gonna be $7.00 higher but we had to add GAP insurance. What idiot wouldn’t? Oh, and we also have lifetime bumper to bumper warranty. I think those things are worth the $20. Check the Spring 2008 album for pics!
Today Blows
4-4-08
So, first of all it’s that time of the month and I am currently having the worst period in the past two years pain wise. Second of all some personal issues that I’m not going to put on here out of respect for the other person. Third of all 2 people in Sean’s family have died today. Fourth, I have a ton to do and I just don’t wanna. Fifth, I have to get up before 6 in the morning to drive Sean to Austin. Sixth, Riker is teething and he is miserable. Positive: I got a part time job at Aeropostle in the outlets today. I start next week. I am so ready to move out we have a place lined up and I’m ready to go! I need more space. It’s a 3 bedroom so we will have a room for baby 2 when I loose the 10 pounds and we are ready. Yeah, I know it’s weird to want to loose weight and then get preggo but with Riker I lost all my baby weight and then had other weight I wanted to loose. This time I will just have to loose baby weight and then tone up. God, I can’t wait to be pregnant again!
Riker's 9 Month Check-Up
4-19-08
Stats:
29 inches long (75%)
18.13 pounds (10-25%)
44 circumference of his noggin (10-25%)
Meeting or exceeding all expectations except they said he is too skinny. For everyone who has seen my kid you are prolly laughing your butt off he is quite the chunk. They take those percentiles too seriously.
July
5-6-08
I am officially excited about July. It is going to be the best month ever! Saturday, July 12th - HALEY RAE gets here! Yay! It's been almost a year! I am so exicted! Sunday, July 13th - Riker's 1st birthday and party! I can't believe it! Friday, July 18th - My 21st birthday! We are going out to dinner then going out for drinks and fun! Saturday, July 19th - We are going to see Batman! We are also going to go do something water related while she's here. I'm just so excited. My birthday, my son's birthday, and HALEY!
My 1st Mother's Day with Riker!
5-12-08
Today was my very first Mother's Day with Riker in the world. It was great. First my gifts. I got The Girls Next Door Season 3, a new necklace, new earrings, and these 3 canvases. One of Riker's hands, one of Riker's feet, and one of Riker covered in paint. It was sooooo sweet. This morning we started of my going to church with Susan, then we went to Texas Roadhouse, then came home so Sean could was the car, played a game, ran some errands, and the my mom, Rike, and I went to Pluckers. All in all it was a very good day. I hope next year will be as good.
Riker - 10 Months
5-16-08
Riker is now 10 months old. In the past few days he has started having tantrums when you take something away or won't let him do something. It's horrible. Riker front faces now which I didn't want him to do until a year AND 20 pounds like you are supposed to but Sean didn't want to wait 2 months. Riker is deleveloping quite the vocabulary; ma-ma, ba-ba, da-da & dad, duck, no, naw-naw (my mom), bye, yeah, and I think that's it. He runs his push toy all over the house. Walking has to be in his near future. He can stand alone but not for a long time. I just love him so much! He's great and growing so fast.
We're Moving!
5-22-08
Hopefully next Friday if not the following weekend. Either way by July 1st. Heck yes! Can't wait. Things are starting to get crazy. Two families under one roof just doesn't work. Riker will finally have his own room! YAY!
Riker...
6-4-08
can walk!!! Yesterday he took a few steps and today he walked to Sean twice! YAY! I'm so excited!!!
July Update
6-10-08
On July 7th. Sean and I have been together for 4 years and married for exactly 2 1/2. YAY US!
In just 33 days (July 12th) I will be picking up my best friend, HALEY RAE from the airport. Heck yes! I can't wait!In 34 days (July 13th) it will be Riker's 1st birthday and birthday party. Those who will be receiving an invitation will be getting it soon. I like to plan extra early for summer events. Since people vacation and stuff. I am so excited. He is having a Backyardigans party. On July 16th me and my under 21's will be going out to Graham's for a pre-bithday celebration! On July 18th I will be 21! We are gonna go see Batman. I will also be having a dinner with family and friends of the family. On July 19th I'm gonna get drunk, have fun, and get drunk. At some point while Haley is here her sister is gonna do my hair and we are gonna tube the river and absorb water here and there. Great month. Oh, and Tara will be 21 but not til 6 days after me. GAY! They should let her get drunk with me b/c she's so f-ing close. Stupid "laws". lol. And...we should be moving in the month of July. (Fingers crossed)
Our Little "Vacation"
6-27-08
Last Thursday we "moved-in" to Beau's parents house while they went to Florida. It has been so great. Being on our own for over a week.We've been at my mom's since June of last year so it's been wonderful. Like our own little "vacation". We go back to my mom's tomorrow for about a week until we move in to our new place. We won't need any help moving seeing as it's on the same street as my mom. It's a 3 bedroom/2 bath duplex. With a covered deck in the backyard. It's perfect for us right now. We want to have a new addition next year so we need 3 bedrooms.
Another awesome thing about staying here the past week is Riker has never been tought to just go to bed b/c we've always been in the same room. He now can go to bed without crying and without being rocked. When we go back to my mom's house for a week we are going to sleep in the living room so we don't ruin it and have to start fresh. I know I told everybody Riker could walk like a month ago but no he walks frequently. I love that boy he's perfect. Oh and I started watch my nephew last week and it's been going really well. Riker loves having him to play with.
My Boy
7-8-08
What he does...
1. He walks.
2. He's building quite the vocabulary.
-Yeah
-Weeee!!
-done
-Ma-ma, Mommy
-Dad, Da-da, Daddy
-Naw-Naw (my mom)
-love you
-jump
-I done
-no
-hi, hey, ello
-bye bye (this one is his favorite and you get the wave)
-food
3. He is almost 100% off the bottle. He gets a sippy cup of juice or water during the day and one of formula at nap time. He gets a few ounces of formula before he goes to bed. He will stop getting a bottle completely this weekend. I'm gonna start giving him milk with his breakfast to get him used to the taste.
4. He goes to bed unassisted. We used to put him to sleep via rocking ect. b/c we were sleeping in the same room so we had no other choice. But we have moved him in a different room and he now takes naps at his scheduled nap time and goes to bed at a certain time too. We are still working out the kinks here.
5. He has 6 teeth and is getting more right now.
6. Loves to give hugs.
7. Nods yes and shakes head for no.
8. Loves to dance.
9. Climbs up and down the slide. Unassisted.
My July Timeline of Events
7-8-08
July 12th - Riker's One Year Pictures and HALEY RAE gets here!!!!!
July 13th - RIKER SEAN ARMSTRONG turns 1 year old! He will be having a party and we are taken him to Gattiland that night. The kid loves pizza and to ride the firetruck they have there.
July 16th - We move!
July 18th - My 21st birthday! We will be going out to dinner and such.
July 19th - Me, some friends, my favorite brother-in-laws, and my sister-in-law are going out to get drunk and have fun!
July 20th - Taking Riker to the zoo for the first time.
July 16, 2008
7-8-09
July 16, 2008 is our offically moving day! Thank goodness. He said we could move on the 13th and we were like yeah, we are gonna be super busy that day. Monday I am on-call at work and Tuesday we have a class so I decided on Wednesday. We are going to use the room closest to us as Riker's room and the front room as the "whatever room". For right now it will house Sean's PS3 and Rockband. But next July we will be putting a racecar or firetruck bed in there and decorating it for Riker. And we will start turning his old room into a baby boy or girl's room. We will know which by then. We scheduled an appointment to have my IUD taken out October 7, 2008 at 1:30pm. We can't wait!