Berkley Grace Turner

The header of my blog, I think, says it all; a turn of events it has been! Berkley Grace Turner was born 10 days early on April 13th, 2011. She is the sweetest, most beautiful baby in the whole world! I am so thankful she is healthy and that labor and delivery went as smoothly as possible (more on that later).

Geoffrey and I are extremely proud parents and the grandparents, on both sides...well, let's just say they are all on cloud nine! Having a baby sure does change the dynamics of your family; in a good way. The only way I know how to describe it is that having a baby brings both sides of the family closer together. Her Lolli and Pops (Geoffrey's parents) adore her and so do her Gigi and Papa (my parents). Aunt K, Aunt Juju, Aunt Emily, Aunt Sarah and Uncle Fatty all love her to pieces too. Geoffrey and I are overwhelmed with thanksgiving that B has such an amazing family/support system. Berkley will grow up surrounded by family who will always love her, who will want to spend time with her and invest in her life! She is one lucky little lady.

I can honestly say the moment her daddy and I laid eyes on her we fell in love! I'm not going to lie, the first thought I had was "Why is she purple?" But my first emotion was pure JOY! Geoffrey actually voiced his first thought, which echoed mine. The nurses assured us that her color was normal and would subside momentarily. Which it did. As I laid there, watching the nurses measure Berkley, I was captivated...overwhelmed...mesmerized! I also couldn't believe I had given birth. That was a crazy thought; that it was all over, yet it was just beginning.

The first time I held her was just beautiful! I couldn't believe she was actually here and I was holding her, my precious gift from God, in my arms...finally! And Geoffrey and I couldn't wait to show her to our friends and family! So, before too long, the grandparents came in to meet their first granddaughter. Then the aunts and uncles came in, along with my grandmother. And before we knew it, the labor and delivery room was full of friends as well, on their lunch breaks, who came to see baby Berkley. It was wonderful introducing her to all the people I love so much!

B was born on a Wednesday morning and we didn't leave the hospital until Saturday morning because I had a fever (which meant B also had a fever for a little while) and had to stay on antibiotics for 48 hours. Which meant we had A LOT of visitors who came to meet Berkley. I can't even count the number of people who came up to the hospital to see us. Geoffrey and I were so blessed by everyone and we loved visiting with each one of them!

Bringing B home was weird. Getting in the car with her was weird; I just kept watching all the cars around us. Geoffrey and I talked about how much more we noticed careless drivers around us. And of course, we drove much more timidly too, I mean, we were carrying precious cargo! Once we got home, I just wept. Not because I was sad. The word I have to describe it is overwhelmed. I was overwhelmed with love, excitement, joy...I just felt blessed. I just kept looking at Berkley and thinking, "Oh my goodness, she's MY daughter. I am her mom...I love her so much!" That's the summery of my emotions that first week. My doctor told me I would cry randomly. She warned me that sometimes I would cry because I knew the reason, and sometimes I would cry not knowing the reason. I'd cry due to happiness, I'd cry due to just being tired...But she assured me it was normal. Well, crying isn't exactly normal for me. I am a pretty even keel kind of gal. So, when these emotions just came flooding in, it was so weird for me. Geoffrey would ask me what was wrong and wanted me to explain how I felt; sometimes there were just no words. But there was a song..."God I look to You" by Bethel Live:

God I look to You

I won't be overwhelmed

Give me vision to see things like You do

God I look to You

You're where my help comes from

Give me wisdom, You know just what to do

I will love You Lord my strength

I will love you Lord my shield

I will love You Lord my rock

Forever all my days, I will love you God

Hallelujah our God reigns

Hallelujah our God reigns

Hallelujah our God reigns

Forfever all my days Hallelujah

So, I listened to that song a lot that first week. In fact, Geoffrey made me a playlist on my iPhone that included these songs as well:

"Everlasting God"-Chris Tomlin

"Where I Belong"-Cory Asbury

"From the Inside Out"-Hillsong

"Forever Reign"-Hillsong Live

"Love is Here"-Tenth Avenue North

Every time I got up in the middle of the night to nurse B, I would put on my ear phones and listen to my worship playlist. Peace and joy would flood B's nursery and I just felt the presence of God..even in the middle of the night, when I wasn't always the most coherent (more like sleep deprived haha). It just reminded me that I could be confident in the promise that the Lord would never leave me nor forsake me; that He would guide me as I parent Berkley. The Lord would remind me that He had not given Geoffrey and I more than we could handle. He had equipped us for parenthood, and I had no reason to doubt or have any fear!

I love nursing B too. It was hard the first two weeks, but it has gotten easier and easier. It's my time with my baby girl. I pray over her, sing over her and love holding her each time I nurse. It's true what they say about nursing, it really does help form a really strong bond between mom and baby. I have to say, the pain at the beginning was worth it! (more on my nursing experience/expectations later).

Berkley is now one month old. Time has truly flown by. These last four weeks have just been a blur. Each week has been better than the last. My crying stopped sometime during week 2. But the overwhelming feelings of joy and love have not! I love being home with my daughter!!!

I said this the last time I posted anything, a lot sure has changed!! AND, it's been waaaaay too long since I blogged last! But, many things have indeed changed and it truly has been a long time since I posted anything.

It's January and I am 25, almost 26 weeks pregnant with a baby girl; Berkley! She is due April 23, right before Easter (which is really late this year). So far, pregnancy has been great! (She agrees I guess; she's moving around a lot right now). I just had a doctor's appointment two days ago and my Dr. said I am measuring perfectly; 25 cm. I've gained 10 pounds so far and I'm feeling good. We have another appointment in 3 weeks and then after that she wants to see me every two weeks until week 35 or 36 when she wants to see me every week I think. I can't believe how close we are getting to Berkley actually being here! On February 3, we have a 4D ultrasound scheduled at Stork Vision. I had no idea what 4D meant, I had to ask. Basically instead of still pictures at this ultrasound they will shoot live video of the sonogram and we will actually get to see Berkley move in real time. So if she is sucking her thumb or moving her fingers we will actually get to see her do those things as she is doing them! So many times I have thought how much I am looking forward to meeting her! Come February 3, we will at least know what her beautiful little face will look like!

These past few months have been crazy. Geoff and I have been preparing for this little one by a small remodeling project. I said small, but it took us two months of working on it many week nights and many Saturdays. But with a lot of help from my dad, we are finally finished! We honestly couldn't have done any of it without him! He was the master mind! I will post pics of the remodel later. Now, all we have left to do are the small projects. Painting Berkley's room is at the top of the list and getting her furniture delivered. We purchased her furniture in October I think, but we wanted to wait to have it delivered and assembled until after the room was painted. Hopefully we will paint soon. Not this weekend though. Our renters just moved out of our apartment and a new renter is moving in this Saturday, so Geoff and I will be busy getting the apt. cleaned and ready for the new renter.

I have some projects I'm working on as well. We found an old armoire at Junk Warehouse that is currently pink, that we want to sand, repaint and repurpose to use as extra storage in our kitchen. But I can't sand anything with old paint on it while I'm pregnant, so Geoff has to sand it for me. Then, I have a small desk that was my grandmothers that I currently use as a nightstand. It also needs to be sanded and repainted. But it probably won't get done until spring break. And I know there are many other little things I need or want to do before Berkley arrives, but I'm not too concerned if they do not get accomplished. Which admitting that is a huge thing for me, because I am a planner, perfectionist and all around "can't ever sit down" kind of gal because there's always stuff that needs to be done.

And now it is time to stop, because its getting late and I absolutely need my beauty sleep or I will be cranky and irritable tomorrow = )

Well a lot has changed in the last couple of months. The Summer Club is over and it was awesome! The school year began and is going quite well. But the biggest change of all is that Geoff and I are expecting our first baby! We are so excited...and my have things already changed. I am only 9 weeks along and already so much of our life is different.

I have been joking around with Geoff telling him he is married to the most boring wife because I go to bed so early now. I even take naps during the day. It is quite pitiful. But everyone keeps telling me that I should stock up on the sleep because once the baby comes, there will be MUCH less sleep. Which, as I've thought about it a little more, it's kind of funny. They say the first trimester is the hardest on your body because of how hard your body is working to create a home for the little critter who will reside in you for the next 8-9 months. So, it's like running a marathon uphill everyday (that's what they say) and that's why you get so tired; your body is working overtime. So that's what happens when the news of "We're having a baby" is still fresh. Then your second trimester goes a long and they say you will have sooo much energy, which I am looking forward to. Finally, your third trimester. No one is really given much advice about the third trimester yet, maybe I'm just not far along enough, but maybe there is a reason...? Who knows. But then, the baby comes. And all the energy the baby demanded from you that first trimester is like multiplied by 1,000. And yes I know it will get better as Geoff and I adjust and the baby gets into a routine. But I just find it funny that the "We're having a baby" phase and the "We had a baby" phase are similar yet different.

It's 7...only 7 on Monday night. Today felt like two days...oh it's only Monday; but it was a good day. The Summer Club has been going great...still trying to iron out some details and kinks; but we are getting there.

I have to say that we have an incredible staff! So blessed to work along side of each of them! They are so creative, talented, the kids LOVE them all, and they make the club so much fun for our kids! Today, we did a huge scavenger hunt, arts and crafts, side walk chalk, sports, went to the park and played lots of games. Later this week, we are going to the pool, the big kids are going on a nature hike, The Skating Place, and we are headed toward the downtown public library to see a play! So much fun!!! And next week, is SURVIVOR week...mud pits, obstacle course, water day with a GIANT slip N' slide, and kiddie pools filled with all sorts of nastiness. Haha, it should be fun!

Well, tomorrow will come early, so I need to get some sleep...it will be another slightly longer day...but well worth it!

Spring Forward

I love when seasons change, but sometimes it stinks that we see so much of the winter and summer around here. I wish the spring and fall would come and stick around a while longer than what we are used to. Still, as much as Texas weather bothers me, I love it here because we usually see nice, warm days a lot sooner than many other places.

I don't know what it is, but I'm always ready for "spring" in January. My husband would disagree with me. He loves the winter and hopes it lasts as long as possible. But for me, it just want to know why it couldn't bite the dust sooner? I mean really...there is just something about winter hanging on after all the Christmas and New Year's celebrations that make me wait impatiently for February 2, when all eyes are on a tiny hole in the ground. Will Mr. Groundhog emerge from his underground home to take a stroll around the block as if to tell America "Oh yea, winter is almost over!"??? Unfortunately, not this year; that chicken came up for a quick photo op and then decided to retreat back into his burrow. Oh stink, 6 more weeks of winter. Why we look to a groundhog to forecast our non predictable Texas weather, I don't know. Either way I definitely look forward to the day I at least get more sunlight in the evenings.

And so, last night I excitedly set all our clocks ahead one hour (except for the clock on our coffee maker, I can't quite figure that one out)...Anyway, you may ask why there's so much excitement over one extra hour of daylight. Well, I feel I have more energy in the evenings when the sun is still out and I accomplish more too! Well, at least that's what I tell myself. We'll see how much more I actually do get done as opposed to nights where the sun goes down around 6ish. But really, it all goes back to spring...its just around the corner. Hopefully it will last a little while longer than normal.

Blessed

I am so blessed. My mind has just been overwhelmed today with the legacy that has been deposited in me through my parents and even their parents and grandparents (my great grandparents). This heritage has truly affected who I am today, who I married...and in the future, this heritage will affect my children as well.

Concerning my husband, I am so grateful for the legacy that has been deposited in him by his parents. Geoffrey is a treasured gift from God; my best friend...my perfect #2! He truly loves God with all his heart, soul, mind and strength. He passionately pursues the Lord and trusts Him with everything. And as the worrier in this family, Geoff is my compliment; he literally speaks life into me daily, through scripture and words of encouragement. I can't even count the number of times he has prayed over me and made me say, out loud mind you, "Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4:5-7) He radiates joy! And honestly, I can't believe it will already be four years this June 30th. I guess time flies when you're having fun!

My Dad is a pillar; strong like Samson, but also very humble. He's always been a rock; a solid foundation, building/rearing the three of us girls in the ways we should go. He has been an example to me of how a husband loves his wife, his children and his Lord. Dad's integrity is unshakable, his work ethic is Godly, and his contracting business (The House Specialist) was built in faith after God closed one door, but opened another. And my has his business grown! Also, I love owning the home my dad remodeled 4 years ago, not knowing his daughter would be living in it later. It's a neat bond we share, an amazing testimony of God providing a job for my dad then and providing a home fro me and Geoff later.

My Mom has the most beautiful servant's heart which exemplifies her outward beauty! She is a Proverbs 31 woman. I so enjoy seeing her love and serve my dad, us girls, her family, friends, co-workers and even strangers! She is one of the friendliest people I know. Mom is also humble and I can't think of a fruit of the spirit she doesn't possess. And I'd like to just take two seconds to speak about her determination and dedication...she has both. Mom is getting her masters in accounting while working full time, being an amazing wife/mom/daughter/friend/volunteer; enough said. Also, I have a blast with mom! She is one of my closest friends!

When I grow up, I want to be like my dad and my mom!

Katie is another one of my closest friends! I am so blessed to have grown up with a sister I actually had fun playing teacher, florist and restaurant with. And we still enjoy hanging out with each other even now. Yes we are different people with different passions and interests. But we do share one common interest that we often get together for: shopping! Katie is my shopping buddy. She has such an eye for fashion! With that being said, I am so thankful and proud of her for standing up for modesty while dressing stylishly. Katie is more precious than rubies and worth far more too!

Julianne is so loving and compassionate. She has the biggest heart for others. I love hanging out with her! Not only does she say the funniest things, but she also encourages my faith and spurs me on to love and good deeds. She extends her hand to family and friends, I'm telling you the girl's got discernment, and she's got the "love God and love others" down. And what a prayer warrior!!!!

Since it is getting late, I can't start writing about the other side of my family tonight. But I will be writing about my husband's legacy soon and just how blessed I am to have the Turner's in my life!

The Call-Houston, Texas

Yesterday was great! Geoff and I along with a few other friends participated in a march and prayer stand in Houston. I was pretty impressed with the amount of people that came out to attend; families with their children, dads in suits who had taken a lunch break to participate, college students, elderly couples and youth groups. A variety of people came together for the same purpose: to pray for our nation and the city of Houston. You see, there is a massive 78,000 square foot abortion clinic being built, the second largest clinic in the world and THE largest in the U.S. in Houston, Tx. They are calling it "The Abortion Super Center."

Geoff and I joined the march Monday morning as thousands gathered for outdoor worship at the Catholic Charismatic Center. Gathering there, at a Catholic Charismatic church was interesting enough in and of itself. But even more interesting and wonderful was the fact that so many had come to march, too many in fact (a good problem to have) that the leaders of the march had to reorganize the whole event to accommodate the mass amount of people. So, rather than all of us marching to the same place, several marches, or mini marches, were arranged to head out and pray silently over neighborhoods around the clinic. The first group comprised of Hispanics and African Americans from that area in Houston who walked towards neighborhoods consisting of primarily Hispanics and African Americans; which I thought that was pretty neat, for them to have the opportunity to pray for their own neighborhoods.

More and more groups were sent out to various neighborhoods, but the group Geoff and I were in headed towards a high school. We walked through the neighborhoods surrounding the high school, but we also walked around the perimeter of the school's campus. You could see the Abortion Super Center from where we were. So, we paused for 15 minutes and just prayed for the center and those who are and who may someday be involved with it. We prayed for the neighbors, for mothers and fathers-to-be who may look toward abortion to resolve their unexpected and unplanned pregnancies. But we also prayed for those without a voice; the unborn children. We prayed for an increase in the number of families willing and interested in adopting the unwanted children in our nation and for more families who could become foster parents. We asked God to open the eyes of those seeking abortion as the only answer and we boldly pleaded before the Father to turn that abortion clinic into an adoption agency!!!

Due to the amount of people who came to participate, our group was unable to see the nationwide press conference Lou Engle spoke at, on site, at the Abortion Super Center. But we prayed for those at the press conference as well; that simple words of TRUTH would pierce the hearts of anyone who would listen.

It was a pretty incredible journey. I am so glad that we attended. A little bummed that we didn't get to see the press-conference live. But, after it was all said and done, our group decided to hop in the car and head towards the Abortion Super Center, just so we could see if for ourselves. All I can say is as we drove closer, the heaviness and sadness was greater than it was earlier that morning.

If you are interested in more info, go to www.thecall.com and click on Houston. Or, go on youtube and look up bound4life.

Please be in prayer for the city of Houston.