Yesterday I turned the big three-four. Whoa. How did that happen?! My life is seriously flashing before my eyes. It’s crazy how time flies.
And I had the best kind of birthday….it all started this past week when my close girlfriends threw me a mini birthday party complete with dinner and dessert and presents. It was so special to me just because I know the effort to do ANYTHING when you have little ones (which they all do!) and they made me feel like a million bucks.
And if you follow me on instagram, then you will know that I had the best birthday yesterday too. I got breakfast in bed, a pedicure and manicure with my mom, the sweetest birthday texts from my friends, loads of birthday hugs and notes from the boys, dinner with my family and then the cutest cake delivered to my doorstop.
My favorite little two year old neighbor made it with her mama and I know that it was a labor of love….a delicious labor of love 🙂
But the absolute best birthday present is one that I got about two weeks ago.
Hold onto your pants because this is really crazy….
We are gonna have another baby! That’s right. I took a test in the middle of January and found out that I am expecting Baby Bower number four! Honestly it was such a shock at the time that I needed to live in sweat pants for a couple weeks but now I am beyond elated and am so eager to welcome this baby to the world. I went to my doctor for an ultrasound earlier this week and am officially pregnant so I get to share it with all of you. In fact…and this is the really shocking part….I am 22 weeks. That’s right….half cooked. When I found that out, my face looked a little something like this….
We spent the last couple weeks telling friends and family and I think everyone was a little shocked too. Happy for us definitely…but shocked. And confused.
The number one question was….how do you get to that point of pregnancy and not know?
Well….that’s a really good question. I never had a cycle after LJ because I am a breastfeeding mama and we were using contraceptives faithfully. Besides that the fact that we were actively “preventing”, I don’t usually get morning sickness or have any other sign than a giant belly (that’s not as evident this time around – see photo above!) and extreme tiredness (I have three little ones…who wouldn’t be tired?!)….so yeah….no real clue. In fact, the only reason I took a test was because the little one was kicking up a storm. No joke. Talk about a shocker. The baby had to announce it’s presence….that’s how clueless I was.
And in the effort to be open and honest, I just wanna put this out there….I was not excited about revealing this pregnancy to the internet at large. For the most part, I think the vast majority of readers would be excited and happy for us. But then there is a small sector that would be not as happy. There would be gals that would be hurt. There would be people TRYING to get pregnant and still waiting. There would also be people who just don’t like me and are kinda snarky about anything I do/say/am and that is hard to deal with when you are going through something so unexpected.
I know we, like most bloggers, are constantly scrutinized and judged and shamed for our personal decisions, our situation and our lifestyle and I would be completely lying to say that it’s always a piece of cake to be transparent. It definitely comes with the territory….but yeah, it can be hard especially when I read through comments and have to delete the rude ones. During our holiday card reveal I had a couple people accuse me of photoshopping my stomach for our card….at the time I didn’t know I was pregnant and I didn’t photoshop it….but I was REALLY offended that people would assume that I was hiding something and that they would judge me for gaining a few pounds. In my world, you never make that statement about anyone’s stomach. And I stand by that. But I do feel foolish for being pregnant, not knowing and denying it adamantly.
And while I am being honest…this is scary for me. REALLY scary. I mean…there is a reason why so many people don’t plan so many kids so close together. Those little ones take so much energy and it worries me that I won’t have enough in the tank. It’s a little difficult to trust that God has this under control. I know He does and I am SO in love already with this little one but it’s just hard for me to push away fear of inadequacy.
Speaking of fear….I cried when I found out. Not tears of elation….tears of extreme fear….fear that Jeremy would be not happy about this baby like he has been for the boys. And I want that for my children. I want them to know that we want them…no matter if we tried for them for a year or for a month or they were a total surprise…that we want them with all our heart and that we love them to the very core. The greatest gift was when Jeremy responded with a giant smile and a “Wow! That’s….wow!….that’s great, Katie!”. I just married the best man ever. After that it was all laughter. The fear of his reaction was gone.
And seriously….who could be not excited about having another one of these?!
So yes, yesterday was awesome….and I have a feeling that this year will be even better. I can not wait to meet the little one and just smother it with a bajillion kisses and introduce it to the big brothers in the Bower household. I have been saying that this pregnancy announcement was like an epic surprise party….at first, I thought I was gonna have a heart attack, wish I was a little more prepared, but I got the best present ever! And now I have even more motivation to get this house in tip top shape….with four little ones in the mix, I need to get as much done as possible as soon as possible so that I can get maximum snuggle time with my babies….after all, they are only little once! As always, thank you for your continued support and love….you guys really are amazing to come here every day and be an important part of this little blog. Slobbery kisses all around.
I am THRILLED for you guys!!!! What a crazy/exciting/WOAH kind of surprise! While breastfeeding my daughter this past year, I had a few “am I? aren’t I?” moments and I just knew I would be and not know until d-day, ha! I think it’s so exciting!!!
Congratulations, Katie! A shock, I’m sure, but also a blessing. You two have such beautiful kids already–I can’t wait to follow along on this blog as you welcome another. 🙂
CONGRATULATIONS to you all!!!
WOW, what a surprise to us, let alone you and your family.
Thank you for sharing, I am just sorry that you needed to add the paragraph addressing snarky people. I honestly dont know how you cope with having to read/delete peoples rude comments.
I once received a hate letter to my home (no idea where the writer got hold of my address) just because I was one of many pictured in a community garden project!! The subject matter was awful and even directed hate towards my 2 yr old and their hope that he had a future heroin problem! 12 yrs down the line it still angers me.
ANYHOO ( to steal a word from you 😉 ) I am thrilled for you all, I cant wait to see if/how you share the gender news.
xxCONGRATULATIONS,CONGRATULATIONS,CONGRATULATIONS,CONGRATULATIONS,CONGRATULATIONSxx
I have three things to say:
1. Happy Birthday!!
2. Congratulations!!
3. Haters gonna hate hate hate hate
That’s just great! Major congratulations! Nothing but best wishes you and your growing family!
Congratulations, Katie!!!! I’m so happy for you and your family! You already amaze with all you do. I’m sure God will give you the strength to be a wonderful mommy of 4.
Congrats again. Hugs!
Holy cow! Happy belated birthday and congratulations!
Wow! That’s crazy! Definitely not an announcement I was expecting to read! I’m sure there are a lot of emotions to go through, and it’s too bad you have to worry about mean comments.
Congratulations! Hope you enjoy the rest of your pregnancy – I’m sure it will fly by!! When are you due?
Congratulations!
I just have to tell you this: I almost unsubscribed from your blog yesterday. And before you think it’s personal, let me just say that I unsubscribed from almost all blogs because I spend way too much time zoning on the computer and not enough time with my kids, and I don’t have the self discipline to just not check out a new post. BUT I just felt like I needed to keep yours on my feed, so I did. And I can’t even describe how I feel about this post… because I have three kids the same exact ages as yours, and I just found out I’m pregnant again, even though we were definitely not trying. I haven’t even told my husband yet because I’m terrified of his response. I almost feel ashamed, even though I know full well that children are a blessing and a gift, and I love my kids to death. I’m so afraid to put myself out there, exposed to ridicule and spiteful comments. I can think of a hundred reasons why this isn’t good for my timing, including the fact that I haven’t lost the baby weight from my last pregnancies. But I know it’s all in His timing, not mine. So my apologies for turning your happy news into my own (whoops!), but I though you should know that your bravery and honesty really encouraged someone today. It’s just so good to know that I’m not alone. And again, CONGRATULATIONS! I’ll be praying for you. 🙂
Congratulations! My #4 was a surprise too (as in, I was really not ready for a baby then) and it was so hard to tell people and deal with their reactions when my emotions were so mixed up and I was feeling so overwhelmed already. So, I’m thinking good thoughts for you and your family. Now my #4 is 6 years old and we all survived, and he even has a younger (and final!) sibling who is 3. 🙂
So happy for the Bower Family!!!! What a blessing! I totally understand the fear factor that you are facing. I have a little guy that is 2 and a 10 month old… (if fact we are typically preggers together!!! might need to go take a test!) I was terrified when I found out that I was pregnant with my youngest… (because we weren’t trying). As a result I became really depressed during my pregnancy with Gibson and I was so worried that I would have post-partum depression. But the SECOND I had that little guy my heart just erupted and I realized that I had NO reason to fear!
You got this girl! Again, I’m so happy for you. And….. I’m going to take a test
Julie
Amazing news!! You are living the dream, girl! Don’t apologize!!! Unless it’s a girl.. Then you best be saving all those apologies for her… Cause she will never be able to date with those big brothers around!
Congratulations! What a crazy surprise. I hope you have all the strength and energy you’ll need. Little ones are no joke and being a mama is exhausting, but (usually) in the best way. Best to your growing family!
CONGRATULATIONS!!! Children truly are a gift from the Lord! God is so good! We will be praying for you…so many mixed emotions I am sure!
OHHHMYYYYWORRRD!!!!!!!
I am SOOO excited!!! I cried happy tears, I screamed out loud and ran around my office and looked like a fool! But I am seriously SOOO happy for you Bower Klan!! CROSSING MY FINGERS that it is a girl!!!! It sounds like it will be!! Oh my. I don’t have the words to express how happy and thrilled and elated and EXCITED that I am for you!!!
I know that is so silly to act this way to a total stranger but I just feel like you are apart of my family – I check in daily like I check in on my older relatives!
My only fear is that the mean and hateful people will start to be too much. I wish I could block those people from commenting or getting to you. I am TERRIFIED that the same thing will happen here with John & Sherry with Young House Love. That felt like a bad break up for me and I don’t think I could go through that again with ya’ll. Afterall, I did totally copy the mustache bash that you threw for Westons first birthday for my sons first birthday party last year!
In saying all of that, I am truly just SO happy and excited to see what this new blessing will bring! God bless you and your family and that darling sweet angel as he/she continues to grow! Well wishes for baby and mama!!
Sending love and prayers from VA!!!
Laura Peak
Awww CONGRATS Katie! That has to be the best birthday present in the whole world 🙂 I wish you a healthy and happy pregnancy. I hope that you receive nothing but positive energy flowing your way, you definitely have it coming from me!
Are you guys going to find out what you’re having this time around as well? I feel like it’s a girl this time 😉
Congratulations! I am so excited for your little family!!!! Will you find out the gender?
Oh my gosh!! Congratulations! I cried reading this because you are so candid, so witty and so sweet. Your boys are so adorable and as a momma myself, I completely relate to your anxiety 🙂 and excitement and every other emotion in between. Congrats again!! God is good!
Oh Katie I am SO happy for you. And I am one of those girls who can’t seem to get knocked up. My happiness and joy for my preggo friends (and preggo internet friends) is real. Like I told my best friend when she told me about baby #4, I’m SO happy for you…I’m just SO sad for me. And I can be both of those things honestly and wholeheartedly at the same time. It is very sweet of you to be concerned, but like you said it’s all in God’s plan, right? You are such a great Mom and your children are so lucky to have you as their Mama. Thank you for always being so real.
Congrats Katie!!! I’ve also recently found out I’m pregnant with baby#2 and we are beyond thrilled! I’m like you in that I want to have my project list DONE, like, right NOW, but just remember to take care of yourself too. Many hugs to you and your whole family. And happy birthday!! *elisabeth
CONGRATULATIONS!!!!! I’m thrilled for all of you and what a wonderful birthday present! I hope the rest of your pregnancy is smooth sailing!
What a special surprise!! God’s timing is perfect and He clearly has big plans for this little Bower! :). Congratulations Bower family!!!!
Oh my gosh, Congratulations!! I would have cried, too. I totally get it. Do you know the sex?
Wow!!! Such wonderful, surprising news!! Congrats Katie, Jeremy and Bower Boys!
Katie, congratulations!!!! I know exactly how you were feeling, with lots of fear. I went through the same thing when I found out I was expecting my 3rd baby, we had just moved across country and my husband was still looking for a job. I was terrified but God worked every single detail out, all I had to do was sit still and trust His perfect plan. Once again, congratulations and remember, “Be still and know that I am God.” Ps. 46:10 (But not too still, make sure you get your projects done 😉 )
Ha! When I saw the title of your post I thought “is this an announcement that they’re going from 3 kids to 4?” Wow, what great news! I had my third baby four days after my twins turned two. Six months later, I’m happy to report we’re all still alive. It’s been a little tough having three so close in age, but not as bad as I had feared. Y’all will do great- all six of you!
Congrats (and Happy Birthday) Katie! This news is very exciting.
Three – four… clever haha!
Honestly, I was excited when I saw your Christmas card, because I thought for sure you were pregnant. You didn’t at all look fat (far from it!!) but I think the stripe top and the angle and position in one of the photos had a lot to do with it.
You’re a great mama, you love those boys with all you have and you have a great support system – you may not sleep for a loooong long time, but it’ll be worth every second.
Lastly, thank you for your honesty – reading your blog does not give us any right to your thoughts and fears and private life, but you choosing to be REAL shows us that we too can have fears and doubts and stumble. Real women with real lives is what we need more of in this notalwayspretty world.
Oh, wow! That is a fantastic surprise! 22 weeks, and you don’t have to worry about the sickly part! Your family is growing so wonderfully. I am happy for you, Jeremy and your boys. I started reading your blog when it was just Will, and I had a feeling you would have a large family.
I, too, am a breastfeeding mama, and am now considering the lethargy I’ve been having lately. Maybe it would be a good idea to check in once in awhile with a pregnancy test even though we are actively “preventing” as well.
Haters are gonna hate no matter what you do. Be excited, be happy, and rejoice in the new life! I love how sensitive you are always about your pregnancies, but darling, do not worry. People that want to be hurt will see hurt wherever they go.
What a blessing! Just thrilled for you, Jeremy and your boys. Hope you feel well during the remainder of your pregnancy.
I totally just screeched with excitement so loud it woke up my boys from their naps……whoopsie!! What wonderful news for your family, congratulations! I will be waiting patiently and secretly hoping for a girl
Happy birthday and CONGRATS!!! I teared up reading this! I’m so excited to follow along with your family. Your cutie patootie little kids give me baby fever. I’ve seen all your babies and I can’t wait for the new addition. You’ll do amazing!
I don’t think I have commented before, however have been a long time reader. It’s just my own opinion, but I really don’t understand how the world has changed so much that EVERYONE has an opinion on everything and has NO problem sharing it. So that being said – we ALL say things that maybe we shouldn’t, do things we might regret later – but isn’t that the best part of life: learning. I wish people would give each other more grace and be more patient. Also, I am one of those women who had a miscarriage with my first pregnancy after 3 months: devastating, and it’s been 3 years, still no baby. and I am ok.
HOWEVER, I am elated for you (even though I don’t even know you guys personally) and am SOOOO happy for anyone who has exciting life news! I am not saying it’s always easy, but I think it’s ridiculous to have any anger or upset feelings about others getting pregnant. How is something I struggle with anyone else’s problem. It’s for me and my husband to support eachother and walk through it together. Any pregnancy is a gift and even though a surprise – what a great one for your family!!!
Every baby is a wonderful miracle, so don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. I wish you great joy in your continuing adventure.
Happy birthday, and congrats on your crazy/awesome baby news. Wishing the best for the entire Bower clan.
Katie, first of all CONGRATULATIONS! I have been reading your blog for years and am completely and utterly happy for you and your amazing family! Every child is a gift from God and you should never feel guilty about having more children. I am appauld that others would say such rude comments to you about your appearance or the choices that you make. Everyone is entitled to their opinions, but nothing good comes out of putting someone else down. Enjoy this special time with your family and remember, there are far more pople who are excited for you and wish you well over those that have nothing good to say. xo, Katie
Babies are a blessing! Congrats!!
Happy Birthday and CONGRATULATIONS!! OMG LJ’s face was so cute and I had the same look on my face. “Duh, whaaat” but 0.345621 seconds later I was excited for you guys. You love your kids like crazy and they’re gosh darn adorable. When I read what Jeremy said, well, perfect………. so happy for you, enjoy your year, your life, your family and yup “Haters gonna hate hate hate hate” CONGRATS!
I’m glad you delete the mean comments and I really enjoy your honesty. Its one of the many reasons I love to read your blog! Same thing happened to me, life just gets so busy with children. What matters most is you and Jeremy. Congrats to you both! Enjoy this time. Before you know it they are all teenagers like mine and gone all the time and you miss them terribly!
Maybe this time it will be a girl! 🙂
I’ve never commented before, but felt like I had to because you deserve a huge CONGRATULATIONS!!!!! and also HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!!! I love following your blog, and am thankful for your kind and hospitable spirit that is so evident in all you share. Thank you for your sweet example and transparency. While I don’t “know” you guys, I am definitely rejoicing with you today 🙂
WOOOO HOOOO!!!
CONGRATULATIONS AND BELATED HAPPY BIRTHDAY!
Congrats!! You got to miss the worst part of pregnancy – worrying about miscarriage, illness, tiredness – and maybe you weren’t sea sick on that ship after all!! Being blissfully ignorant is sometimes a blessing!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!
Oh, and Congratulations!
Getting through the first trimester without knowing… oh my that’d be a dream. Next time, I’ll trade you my rolling tummy and acne. 😉 I hope that “dream” doesn’t come back to bite me in the butt… I can’t imagine feeling little baby kicks as the first sign of pregnancy. How cool. What a weird blessing.
YAY BABIES!
Aaaah! My happiest congratulations to you and Jeremy! Such great news! xo
Belated happy birthday, Katie.
And a huge congratulations, Katie and Jeremy!!!! Babies are always a blessing. I’m so very happy for you all.
CONGRATS!! I wish you a healthy, happy baby and selfishly I put baby girl on the table too. I think those three hooligans would be the ultimate helpers with a sweet baby girl;)
Wow that was a very clever post title. I’m 24 weeks and I’ve known since I was 3 weeks 2 days. That’d be so awesome to just show up at the doctor and already be past the tough parts!! Given that you are already that far, did they tell you the gender?
ps I also think the title is hilarious because my 25 month old hasn’t quite picked up counting and when you ask her “how many” of anything the answer is always “3-4” and she holds up each of her index fingers.
Congrats and enjoy these last 18 weeks of pregnancy!
CONGRATULATIONS! I’ve had a weird inkling over the past 2 months that you might be pregnant agin (sorry if that sounds creepy stalker-ish). You’ve just always been open about wanting a lot of kids. I am thrilled for you guys and it is all part of God’s great plan. Happy birthday and happy pregnancy! Can’t wait to follow this journey with you.
So fantastic! Happy birthday and happy baby!
Congratulations! I really admire you for all that you accomplish.
Now, regarding the snarky people who come after you and lots of other bloggers with nothing at all nice, and mostly really nasty things…. I know exactly who you are talking about. I discovered that group many moons ago and I wish some really horrible things on them, A LOT. But you need to remember one thing: they are all insanely jealous of you. In fact, just yesterday when I read your storage post, I saw that wonderful, huge storage hallway and thought to myself, “Oh dear. Those are going to go insane when they see this. And sure enough….. they don’t ever disappoint. Their jealousy-fueled trash is always very predictable.
So Katie, never fear being who you are and posting exactly what you want to. The majority of us really enjoy reading what you write, and the few who might not enjoy your content do what normal people do – they don’t come back day after day to read and complain. Rock on!
My thoughts exactly! You go Katie! We love you. And Jer’s reaction is totally amazing.
CONGRATULATIONS!!
Sorry you have to deal with nastiness, but thank you for being strong enough to deal with it and still share your blog.
The way I look at it, the rude posters wouldn’t miss you as a target – they’ll take any target, because their comments are really about something within themselves. The rest of us would miss you because we appreciate your adorable photos and domestic inspirations and we don’t expect you to be perfect.
…Well, I don’t! Since I’m not and I don’t know anyone who is! 😉
I hope all the positive comments drown out the negative ones??
Holy Guacamole! How wonderful (and exciting, and exhausting!). I’ve been a longtime reader but never commented until now. It made me so sad to hear you worry about how the internet would react to this news. I’m sure it was hard enough to wrap your brain around the news without the added stress from fear of potential snarky comments. So I just wanted to send you my heartfelt wishes and say congratulations on another beautiful Bower baby!
oohhh…I see what you did there. 34th birthday…going from 3 to 4 little munchkins…clever! Happy Birthday and Congratulations! Life is good.
Congrats!!! I actually always wonder if this will happen to me when I’m nursing! Haha! So crazy and EXCITING!!! Also, happy birthday!!!
I love the duality of the post title 😀 Congratulations!! Are you going to find out the gender??
Congratulations! So happy for your sweet family; we can hardly wait to meet your new baby!!
Aww, I don’t read the comments on your instagram feed because so many of them are mean. I can’t imagine what that feels like when they are actually written to you. I am sorry I don’t comment on your blog more often to spread some love. I love reading it and am amazed at how much you and your husband accomplish while still giving time to others and to each other. Thanks for being so open, and I will always be impressed by you and your ability to “keep it real,” even if I don’t say so very often. I’m sure I’m not alone.
Congratulations on the baby! He/she is lucky to be in your family. And happy birthday! It seems like 34 will be pretty exciting!
Whoo!!!!! Congratulations!! From my outsiders perspective, you always seemed like you were destined to have a large family. As an only child I am SOO HAPPY you are giving your boys siblings to love them forever. Nothing beats a tight-knit family. My mom is one of seven and they have so much love for each other.
I’m crossing my fingers it’s a girl! Oh, and Happy Birthday!!!
OMG!!! What a shocker. I can’t believe it. So excited for you! And like everybody else said, don’t let the haters get you down. They probably just have some of their own internal issues and need to take it out by saying ugly things to other people to bring them down. You will be a wonderful mother to all four of your children. I’m also pregnant right now (17 weeks) and can’t believe that I’m finding out that you are pregnant and ahead of me all at the same time 🙂
Congratulations to you and your family! You should never have to apologize for such amazing news! You got this!!!!
Happy birthday and congratulations! What an amazing gift!
Hey Katie,
Congrats!!! I love reading your blog and finding inspiration and authenticity! My 3 kiddos were all born within 3.5 years, and the last 2 were surprises. TWO surprises!!! So I think I relate to how you are feeling. My youngest is almost 5, and those crazy years seem so far away, and my kiddos are BEST buds. Praying for strength for you , rest for you, and joy even in surprising circumstances. Thanks for sharing your journey.
Congratulations!
I NEVER comment, but i wanted to say congratulations! What a suprise, but it will be great.
Also, Will is about to turn into a big kid (more than you think now) and will be a bigger help than you can imagine.
XO
Happy Birthday and congratulations, Katie!! Sounds like your 34th year will be an exciting one!
Congratulations to the Bower Clan,
I am so happy and excited for you all! I was so shocked when I read your post. Don’t let the haters bother you, WE (your loyal friends and followers) all are here for you and feel like we really know you and Jeremy. What did Will think? He is definitely old enough to get what having another sibling means!
Take care of your self and those precious babies.!
Katie, I kid you not, this exact same thing happened to me! I bet we are even due around the same time. I know exactly what you mean about feeling foolish for not knowing. I found out after a routine doctor’s appointment that I was 19 weeks along. That same day I read a news story about a woman who gave birth an hour after finding out she was pregnant and the comments were so mean. I wanted to write “Hey, leave her alone. It happens.” I’m so happy for you. This is our second and we found out we’re having a girl so if not knowing until half way through is any indication then maybe you are having a girl too 🙂 Happy birthday and congrats!!!
Look at you being all cute with your title! Congratulations I cannot wait to *meet* this baby and to learn its name!
I hope you only get nice comments and are hidden from anything negative floating around the internet, babies are exciting no need to for people to be snarky!
Hi Katie/Bowers!
I hardly ever comment but I just wanted to send a big heartfelt congratulations your way!! I am so happy for you guys and your growing family and God always works in ways we aren’t expecting!
I am actually appalled how many of my favorite bloggers have to deal with all of the crap people feel brave enough to post about on the internet. Apparently their mothers never told them if you don’t have something nice to say, don’t say anything at all. I even get annoyed at the Instagram commenters – I read a lot of food blogs and people will comment things like ‘Give us the recipe!’ on a photo where they literally say recipe coming soon! Or recipe on the blog today! And don’t even get me started on people commenting on kid’s appearances – like who are these people?? I love all of the blogs I read and feel like you are all a part of my extended family even know you don’t know me from Adam – I feel super defensive whenever I read some of those haterade-fueled comments and literally can’t imagine how it makes you all feel! As someone above already noted and my girl Taylor Swift so awesomely said… haters gonna hate hate hate hate hate. I hope you keep up your cheery disposition and know that most of us around here fully love and support you!
Oh my goodness CONGRATS!!! How exciting for you guys! I am so happy for you and I just love hearing about all of your projects and family stories. A very happy birthday to you!!!! P.S. I cannot believe that people would have anything but nice things to say about you and your happy family and blog! I just love it and never tire of reading your heartfelt and entertaining stories. Keep em coming! 🙂 You do a great job!
A great big congratulations to you and your family! Aaaaannndd a very happy birthday to you! Great news no matter what anyone says.
Are going to find out if your having a boy or girl?
Congrats! Thanks for sharing, sorry that you feel you have to address negative comments (and even sorrier that people can’t just keep quiet if they don’t have something nice to say!)
This is my first comment in the 3 odd years I’ve been reading your blog! I just wanted to say congratulations to the highest order and that you and I may be having babies at the same time! I’m 24 weeks along with my second child, and they will be 18 months apart. I’m also scared, but elated. Mostly because I’m not sleeping through the night yet and boy, talk about being on the receiving end of people’s opinions and unwanted advice! I admire you for your openness on the internet and enjoy your blog updates, especially of your family. Look forward to hearing whether it is a boy or a girl!
oh my gosh, oh my gosh, oh my gosh!!! So SO exciting!!!! When i saw the title of your post, i instantly thought, another baby! Then you start out wit the whole birthday thing and i was kinda bummed! haha. Happy Birthday and happy pregnancy to you! Will you find out/share the gender? XO
WOW! What a wonderful surprise! Congratulations! (And that’s also pretty sweet to “miss” the early part of the pregnancy, which most women — me — always find the hardest. Nicely played, KB!)
Wow! I thought I was just reading a post about your birthday celebration! Congratulations, what exciting news! As an exhausted mama of only two kids, I understand your mixed emotions at finding out. I struggled with a lot of fear with our surprise second, mostly due to financial and previous pregnancy issues. I quickly got over those though and she is now the sparkle of our little family!
Don’t worry about haters! Children are a gift from The Lord, ALWAYS! He will give you strength! Super excited to see your family grow!
Congratulations Katie and Jeremy! So excited for you all! What a wonderful home this new baby is being welcomed into! Will you find out the gender of this baby?
Congratulations! Two of my 3 are surprises and I can relate to the mixed emotions. Like you said, however, my kids (all 3!) are soooo loved, and God seems to have it all figured out for us :). I wish and pray for blessings for your whole growing family!
congratulations! I can’t believe what you can accomplish while pregnant and with three other little ones! You are a rockstar!!!
Awe, Katie! Happy Belated Birthday and…CONGRATULATIONS! I don’t know you personally, but from everything I see here on this blog, you and Jeremy are terrific parents. And I know it’s scary to think about keeping up with all these babies, but if anyone can do it, you can! 🙂
And hey, I know at least two women who honest to Pete DID NOT KNOW they were preggers until the baby popped out! There are a TON of reasons why some women don’t realize right away that they’re expecting a little one. So don’t let anyone make you feel bad about that!
So incredibly happy for you guys! We are a family of 6 as well and it can be chaotic at times but I love it. I wouldn’t trade any of it. Congrats!
Congratulations Katie! How exciting for your growing family! As long as you and your family are happy that’s all that matters. Don’t worry about readers judging, you will have haters no matter what you say or post. Just keep on being your awsome self!
Also, I love the selfie stick for your birthday! Is it easy to use? You should just do a post on it:).
Have a great day,
Nickie:)
CONGRATULATIONS!! Wow, what an amazing early birthday gift!
Wow!!!! Just WOW Katie! CONGRATULATIONS!!!! You are a super momma with a super loving family and community around you- you’ve got this in the bag!! It is going to be amazing to see what God has planned for this little one. I love how He works like that, such a sense of humor along with knowing the big picture. So Cool!!! I’m sending love your way!! 🙂
WOW….what a birthday present!!! Congratulations to you and your family!!!
Ignore the snarky comments and haters and focus on the LOVE!!!
Prayers for a healthy pregnancy and easy delivery!! Looking forward to the gender reveal.
Thank you for the awesome posts lately. Giving me motivation to continue our Year of Organizing.
CONGRATULATIONS!!!! That’s AWESOME news!!! So funny about what made you take a test. We have two and are complete… but everytime my tummy rumbles I think, hmmmmm have I missed something? I even asked my husband once if he feels when his tummy rumbles and he looked at me like I had six heads. LOL. Hope you continue to feel well! SO happy for you birthday girl! Congratulations to the whole family!
Happy Happy birthday! Big congrats on the newest Bower addition!
I checked in for another basement update. this is a better post.
Happy birthday and congratulations!
Happy belated birthday and CONGRATULATIONS!!!!! I am very excited for your growing family!
Congratulations Katie and family! How exciting!! I feel just as surprised as you, I remember reading a few posts ago where you said “no, I am not pregnant.” So I thought we wouldn’t be hearing announcements any time soon. Also thank you for your honesty. My pregnancy was also a big big shock for our family and it’s nice to know that other people get that uncertain feeling. Best wishes to you and your family- will you let us know the sex?? Hoping for a girl for you!
Wow that’s awesome! I wish I could be pregnant for half of the pregnancy and not know it. I was really sick most of mine… I don’t know how you do all of the blogging and take care of your boys too. I have one kid and I think I’m crazy sometimes. lol… Congrats on the new baby and much happiness!
That’s amazing, Katie! Big congrats to you guys! So sad you have to think about the haters but, who cares about that negativity. It’s your life and God has a beautiful, wonderful plan for it.
CONGRATULATIONS!!!!
This is so exciting! I think it’s very easy for people on the outside to speak of the excitement and joy a baby brings (which is obviously true) because they aren’t the ones actually having the baby. Even when you’re trying, becoming pregnant can be a shock and it’s okay to have a “whoa!” moment and feel overwhelmed. You’re human! That being said, this kiddo is so lucky to be a part of the Bower clan.
Keep working that “delete” button on people with nothing good to add to the conversation.
I love the title of this post…so fitting! Happy Birthday and congratulations! This is very exciting!!
Yay!!!! I am so jealous, I have always wanted a surprise pregnancy! Ha, here is hoping that will happen someday! I’m 23 weeks pregnant with our 2nd… And is it weird that I’m hoping to go overdue?? (Hubby is a school teacher and I really want him to be done for the year when I go in to labor) you didn’t mention finding out gender, are you going to be surprised?!? I tell you it is the surprise of your life to find out after all that hard labor! 😉 happy for you!!
Soooo, now you know the reason for the unexpected seasickness! Congratulations!
Wonderful news, and happy birthday to you as well.
KATIE BOWER!!! Oh my gosh. I’m so excited for you guys!! Congratulations! I cannot even imagine finding out I’m surprise 22 weeks pregnant. I mean…whoa. The emotions! But I am SO HAPPY for you guys. Huge congrats, friend.
Congratulations! That’s very happy news. As someone who is trying for her fist after a loss this fall, I can still feel excited for the pregnant ladies and so appreciate your sensitivity. Sure, I feel a quick pang of jealousy when friends share they’re expecting, but God gives each of us our own struggles to endure that are unique to our journey.
Okay, so I did laugh when I read that you were preggers again…like, laugh out loud with a huge smile on my face. I’m sure you are freaked out a little , I mean I have 3 boys but they are 12, 10 and 5 and boy am I tired. I think it’s terrific, amazing, fantastic news! Fingers crossed though that this one is a little girl….
We are so happy and excited for you and the Bower crew!! Congratulations!!!!!!!
Congratulations!
Our #3 was a surprise and he has brought such joy to our lives. I call him my special present.
Oh Katie, I laughed out loud while reading this. Followed by a..”WHAT?!”! Then commenced re-reading just to make sure I read it right. Dearest girl, I wish I could hug you in the most non-creepy way ever. What wonderful news in the most surprising way possible! I thought I got excited when the “build offs” came, but you just made my day! As for the frenemies of which you speak….. the world is full of a-holes, but there is more of us than them. We will unite in the Power that is Bower and always lift your sweet family up in prayer! Now please stay well, sleep when you can, and keep posting pictures of ALL your delicious little beebs! All of the congratulations to you and your family!!!!!! Xoxoxo
Congratulations! He/She was supposed to be here and was going to come no matter what. I look forward to following your blog on this special journey.
Congratulations! How wonderful! How exciting! God bless you, your husband, your little ones and your newest little one!
I’ve followed your blog since before Weston and I’m so excited for you guys! We have two sweet children, both in school now. And we have two babies in heaven. No matter what, babies are an incredible miracle, whether you get the pleasure to raise them on earth or only dream about them and wait patiently to meet them. No matter what negative comments come your way, remember that our Lord and Savior is bigger than all of them and He is blessing you with these beautiful children for His plan and no one else’s.
I have a friend who has six glorious children and she’s a super woman, you can be too! 🙂 You can do this, lean on God (remember He always knows what He’s doing and He will never leave you, especially on the tough days).
Blessings to you and your family,
BreAnne
Congrats!! What a blessing! Its all going to work out in the end!… I cried tears of fear as well when found I was pregnant with #2 like literally when our first baby turned one. I was SO worried about how I would juggle it all – but amazingly God gives you what you can handle – I learned some new tricks, did what I could, and the rest would just have to wait 🙂 Sure my house is a sty, we eat pizza alot, but hey I am able to stay home and have fun with my 2 girls! That’s what life is all about. I hope #4 is a girl for you! 😉
Wow! CONGRATULATIONS!!! What a blessing from God. And you must be such a natural at pregnancy that you don’t skip a beat 🙂 Be thankful for that too!
I never comment but I just needed to say CONGRATULATIONS! What fantastic news for you & your family! You are an amazing mama who will handle this just fine.
CONGRATS! #bestbdaygiftever
Congratulations! Children are a blessing from the Lord. Just had my first in July and being a mom has been the best experience of my life. Wishing you and your sweet family the best.
you don’t know me, however I’ve been following you since forevah. when you said you are pregnant I started crying…I’m so not a crier. Your story just got better and better..what a fun one to tell for years! I don’t envy the energy you will need…but we always adapt right? You will. This baby is so fortunate to have your family. Wow! Congratulations over and over!
congratulations, bower family!! nothing but joy and happiness coming at you from this side of the atl!! can’t wait to meet the littlest bower. he or she is one lucky baby!!
LOVE this post!!! Congrats Katie!!!
Congratulations!! My jaw was on the floor reading this post. First bc we share a bday. Second bc 22 weeks! Insane! What an amazing surprise! I’m 29 weeks with boy #2 so in the thick of it with ya.
So is it another boy or are you not finding out this time?
Aw yay! I am so happy for you! What a crazy story– not knowing until the kicks! I love following your blog and cant wait to experience this journey through your posts!
Congratulations! Ignore the haters – these things are none of their business. Love your writing.
Anna (from the UK) xx
Katie, that is awesome! Scary and amazing all at the same time! God totally has a brilliant plan set out for you guys and I know we all can’t wait to see it unfold. Hang in there, get mani/pedis and eat lots of bacon 😉
Wow, congratulations! You are one awesome mama- don’t let the haters get you down! I have a 2 yr old and 8 month old… Everytime I read your blog I am SHOCKED by how much you get done with 3 little ones! I am fully confident that you will rock being a mama of 4!
Congratulations! I was just thinking to myself, “I wonder if Katie is pregnant again? It’s about time for a surprise pregnancy post.” Seriously, I was! I’m so excited for you and I can’t wait to see how you take on the challenge of four kids. Prayers and Strength coming your way!
Wowzers! What a wonderful new adventure!
I’m about 28 weeks along and I have felt EVERY.SINGLE.DAY. of this pregnancy, you’re a lucky mamma. Haha. Wish you the best of luck,
AHHH!!!! Congratulations!! I’m not one to comment, but just in case you get snarky comments, I wanted to add one more positive one to the mix. Fingers crossed for a little girl – since she’ll be overly spoiled and WELL protected with three wonderful older brothers. ::hugs::
Happy Birthday, Katie! What an exciting present to get, and as a surprise, too! 😀 I am so happy for you and your loved ones, and I wish you nothing but happiness!
(And may I just add that I’ve been thinking “PREGNANT!” when you wrote about your cruise and how sick you were? And actually I felt certain that it was going to be a girl this time. Not that it matters!)
Lots of love and hugs from Germany!
Sooooo beyond happy for you! I hate that you have to be afraid to post such amazing news! Also, I love you title has two meanings..how cool to turn 34 and go from 3 to 4!!! 😉
Amazing! Congrats to your family! I or you share more details!
What a happy day! I have struggled with infertility for the last 7 years (we are almost the same age) so reading pregnancy announcements (even when I don’t know the person) can be difficult. It’s something that I acknowledge is ugly and jealous, which makes me feel awful, and is something that is difficult to understand from the outside. There was something very compassionate and genuine in the tone of your announcement, and I want to thank you for that. Wishing you luck for the next 18 weeks.
Happy Birthday! Congratulations!!! 🙂 A shock, I’m sure this far along, but great none the less. 🙂 Big hugs to you. It seems scary, but it’ll all work out in the end. From reading your blog for a while, you have a great support system which is awesome. May God continue to bless your family!
Congrats, may you have a healthy pregnancy and delivery!
I had to announce last summer that we were pregnant when my twins had just turned one. I dreaded telling people more and more but I held on to what a close family friend said that got me through the negative comments… Every baby is a blessing. Congrats your family is beautiful and I’m excited for you.
Congratulations!!!! I LOVE that my children are close in age- God knew waaaay better than I did (as always) about what was best, and now that they’re school age, they’re all BFFs!!
I’ll keep your family in my prayers that you continue a healthy, happy, easy pregnancy
Congratulations!!! I became a follower of your blog through Young House Love and Thrifty Decor Chick. In fact I follow lots of blogs but have never commented before. However, reading your post brought tears to my eyes. My first baby turns 1 next week and I cannot imagine ever having to worry about what anyone would say about bringing a precious light into the world. The fact that you have dealt with negative comments about your body makes me angry and ashamed. My baby is a girl and I fear so much for her in the future as we all know that people can be cruel. I will raise her the best I can to look at herself and feel peace but that can be hard in a world filled with noise. I felt compelled to comment and say that I am sorry on behalf of anyone who commented negatively on your body or your family’s future blessing. Congratulations and best wishes!
Congratulations Bower family – so happy for you!!
Wow, congrats Bowers!!
My due date with our first is tomorrow (eeek!) and I can’t believe how quickly time seems to pass. We only found out 2 weeks ago that we are having a little girl and I just can’t believe it still. So much joy and excitement, I am so glad your family is feeling the same things right now!
Best wishes for a happy and healthy pregnancy!
I just wanted to be another voice to offer congratulations in case you get too many haters. so Congratulations! Happy birthday! Praying for a healthy Bower Baby!
Congrats! Another adorable Bower baby!
Katie– happy birthday and CONGRATULATIONS!!!! You are so blessed!!!!
Congratulations!
Congratulations!! That is so exciting! You are a great.mom, and this baby is blessed to be joining such a great family with loving parents and three big brothers!
Congrats! And that is definitely the way to find out a pregnancy! What a fun birthday gift and already halfway is amazing but I have three kids and it doesn’t seem all that strange to miss a few months – kids are exhausting 🙂 also wondering if you know the sex already? I started reading when will was a baby so it’s been fun watching your beautiful family grow. Very excited for you!
Congratulations!! Don’t worry about the haters out there. I’m excited to meet your new addition!
Congratulations Bower family!!! As the oldest of a family of 4 children (girls!) I will tell you it is awesome to have 3 siblings! You have a beautiful family and it sure will be one heck of an adventure for you! Maybe blessings to a healthy and easy rest of your pregnancy!
Congratulations! You are amazing Katie! What a wonderful story to add to your collection! The boys will be awesome big brothers to a boy or a girl! I have three girls 14, 12 and 10 and people still always ask if we’re gonna try for the boy! Enjoy what you get…it’s what is meant to be! Those pregnancy hormones have been kicking in with all your awesome organizing! Love those hormones…miss them for the extra kick they give you to get things done! Enjoy the rest of your pregnancy! Congratulations Bower clan!!!
Holy cow! Congratulations!!! Do you read Camp Patton? If not, this is a good time to start- she has 4 under 5 and another one due in June.
So excited for you and your family!!!
Congratulations!!
And let’s be fair, haters gonna hate, but don’t let that stop you from feeling excited. It’s wonderful news, and anyone who isn’t kind/supportive/excited can suck it. 🙂
Congrats! I would be terrified too! (but to be fair I would be terrified with two close together. Ha) and screw those mean internet trolls that judge you from behind a screen! They are probably just jealous of your awesomeness.
Thank you for putting your life out in this crazy world to entertain us gawkers!
CONGRATS Bowers! Katie – you’ll be great. You have beautiful, happy children and one more will only make it better. I have three kids, and the two youngest are 20 months apart. It was scary!! But awesome too.
Just one more to love!
Congrats again.
MB
Congratulations!!! Fingers crossed for a girl. Nothing wrong with a boy, but I’d love to see a little girl in your family. Either way, I’m super excited for all of you! You are an amazing woman, and the two of you are doing a wonderful job of raising your kids. Your inner beauty shines so bright and you are raising your kids in a way that I’m sure the same will be said about them when they are adults.
Ahhhh! Amazing news! I have to say I’m jealous you didn’t know until 22 weeks! I start getting sick minutes after I take a pregnancy test with my babies it seems! Since you are 22 weeks, I assume you know gender! Can’t wait to hear!!!!!!
So happy for your family! We hope to have a family one day with four little ones (we had our first baby this pastJune)… I look forward to taking notes from your blog about balancing kids, a home and relationships. You’re a total rockstar Katie! Happy 34th.
Huge Congratulations! Do you plan to find out the gender before birth? What age difference will there be between LJ and the new little one?
Holy cow! That is so cool! Congratulations! Don’t let the haters get you down. If God and Jeremy are on your side, who else really matters?
Katie, Jeremy, and the Bower Boys — CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!!! =) Welcoming a new baby into your family will surely be a blessing.
Now Katie…YOU are beautiful. YOU are an amazing mother. YOU (and Jeremy) have created a beautiful family. Don’t ever let anyone’s nasty words or opinion bother you. I can only imagine some of the craziness you experience through your public life on the blog…and when someone has the audacity to say they think you Photoshopped your stomach in your Christmas card, THEY are the ones who are insecure. THEY are the ones that need more compassion, understanding, and grace. <–YOU've got those things.
I'm so excited to follow along this amazing journey to Baby Bower #4!!! =)
Congratulations!!
It took me too long to realize the double entendre. You turned the big 3-4 and our going from 3 kids to 4! Well played Katie. Congrats.
Wonderful news! Congratulations and Happy Birthday!
Congratulations, Katie!! Do you know the sex? I have a feeling it’s a girl. I hate to say this, because I know that it can be really offensive, but I had a weird suspicion. Not that you looked pregnant at all, just a feeling! Good luck keeping up with all of the kiddos- I have a hard time babysitting 3 under 5!
You are a very blessed little lady and I know that your kids are proud to have you as your mama 🙂
Congrats, again!
Wow!!!! Happy birthday and a HUGE congratulations!!! We’re TTC, but that by no stretch of the imagination embitters me about your joyous news! (So don’t listen to the naysayers, please!!) So, so happy for you guys!
Wow! Congratulations Momma! It is so fun getting to be a part of your growing family!
I think T Swift said it best. Haters gonna hate! Just ignore them and enjoy your latest blessing!
Congratulations!!! So very happy for your growing family!!!
3-4. get it, 3 to 4 kids! chuckle. i hope that pun was intended. pretend it was because i think you’re hilarious for it. also, even if it was bacon instead of a baby, no one has a right to judge. be good to yourself! 🙂
I totally agree. I know this is ugly, but I’m being honest here: my first reaction to most pregnancy announcements is an internal sigh and eye roll. I never expect an expectant mama to temper her joy for my sake, but I feel so tender toward her if she acknowledges my pain in some way. Besides, I’m always happy about babies (eventually)–it’s the initial “SURPRISE!” that gets me.
Congratulations, Bower family!
Katie, this is wonderful news and this little life is such a beautiful gift! As a fellow mom of four, I well remember the thoughts of, “how in the world am I going to handle another one?” But God absolutely gives us the grace to manage, and we can’t even fathom our family without our fourth. Praying for a wonderful remainder to your pregnancy and a joyful, healthy delivery and baby!
I’m so excited for y’all! Congratulations, and I know you want just a healthy baby, but would love to see a baby girl Bower… but then again, you make awfully cute boys too. 🙂
I’m so sorry that people can be so mean! You’re a wonderful person, terrific mom, and you inspired me to start blogging with your honesty and humor. So, I just wanted to send out a positive comment in hopes of cancelling out a possible negative one! Congrats on your big news!
I’m sure you’ve heard this one a lot but maybe this will be your girl? Whatever your baby is, he/she will do/be something amazing. Because, seriously, a kid that gets past birth control and kicks you to say, hey I’m here! That kid has big plans!
Aww, Congratulations! I too just found out I’m expecting a 4th and we were surprised as well. It’s finally sinking in but it took some time this time around. Thank you for being so brave and so real. xoxo
Thank you so much for sharing your amazing news with us! Your transparency must be hard but I enjoy following your blog! What’s so funny is that I needed this post today because last night I found out I was pregnant with our second baby which was a total knock me on my butt and cry surprise! I wasn’t ready to be pregnant and I cried. Then I cried because I was crying that I was pregnant and I should have been dancing! So THANK YOU and CONGRATULATIONS!!! 🙂
Congratulations, Bowers!!!!! So happy for y’all!!! Shoot, with babies as gorgeous as yours, it’d be awful to stop at three!!!! : ) Y’all are incredible parents – you’re so blessed!! Enjoy your pregnancy and hug your other 3 as much as possible – #4 will be here before you know it.
Brenda
Chattanooga, TN
Congrats!
So, when do we get the gender reveal?
dear sweet mama, who i do not know, but who i feel like i know too well.
give those negative thoughts the door. i always think of how i will feel in 20 years. i bet in 20 years, when you have a table FULL of your babies (and maybe even your babies babies), these days will be the ones you wish you could live over and over. you’ll laugh about those 22 weeks you were clueless as you hold that precious miracle under one arm. God is GOOD. you are a wonderful, mama.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cTLfQ05Otk0
God has been faithful; He will be again.
What’s one more! Only thing that matters is that a baby is wanted. Love is a given in your family. Those happy babies are proof positive your the mom bomb. Also what a MAN!
Congrats!!! Although a surprise – what an exciting one! God has got this! Sending prayers your way for another healthy lil Bower. And P.S. You’re awesome – we love reading about you, your family, and how you make your house a home. God Bless!
Congratulations!! A baby announcement is always great news, even when it’s a surprise!
On a side note – thank you for sharing your life on your blog, even when it’s scary to do so. I love reading your blog because you don’t shy away from sharing the messy and real parts of life that everyone deals with and so many bloggers try to ignore/hide. It’s sad that there are so many haters out there, but I’d like to see if any of them could accomplish even half of what you manage to do on a daily basis.
Katie, oh my gosh! Ok, you’re going to think I’m some crazy lady, but we literally just went through the same thing!! Except my surprise is #5!! We were completely shocked and in no way expecting this little person. I’m just a little bit behind you, so our surprises will be born in the same month! I went through the same range of emotions, crazy fear, then shock, then being totally enamored with this baby! My hubby (whose name is Jeremy too!) did the same thing yours did. I completely expected him to freak out, but he was so calm and reassuring that everything was going to be ok. You and me are gonna rock these pregnancies! Best of luck girl & I’ll be praying for you! (Ps 4 is way easier than 3!!) xo
Love everything about you!!! Congrats! And…..better you than me
Same story as others. Have read you forever and never commented. I just wanted to say Congrat’s on your wonderful news and don’t you dare listen to the Negative Nelly’s out there!! So very happy for your whole family.
Congratulations Bower family!!! How wonderful!
Congratulations! It makes me sad that you feel judged and shamed, so I’m posting my first comment ever to say I admire and look up to you. Thank you for posting what you post and foryour constant honesty. Hoping you finally get your girl!!!
OMG KATIE!!! I was just thinking the other day about Bower Baby #4 and if/when it would happen. Anyway, will you be sharing the gender/name??? And if so, WHEN!?
Wow, what a shock I am sure. At least your pregnancy will fly by- it is already half over 🙂
I hope you have a little girl. Are you going to find out?
my fourth was a complete surprise as well! We found out when our baby was ten months old. I did not want to tell anyone because I was worried about their reactions since we already had a baby. I was nervous and scared much like you. But now our little surprise is 18 months old and we could never imagine life without her! Sure, it was tiring and tricky at times juggling a newborn and another small baby, but it is manageable. I’d say physically tiring more than anything. But that passes quickly and the next thing you know they are the best of friends. Plus, your oldest can now help out more than ever. Use him as much as you can! That helped me sooooo much. Congrats! It really is exciting. Plus, kind of fun that you Are already halfway!
Wow, Happy Birthday Katie and congratulations!!
I’ve never commented before but I just wanted to say you’re an inspiration to me and, I’m sure, to many other women out there. The number of us who basically wish we could call you our best friend definitely outnumber those rude snarky commenters!
Keep doing what you’re doing and hug those three gorgeous boys of yours from us 🙂
Congratulations and happy birthday! So the 3-4 is a reference to your age but also going from 3 to 4 kids! Did you find out the gender at your ultrasound?
Just remember Katie, the hater’s gunna hate, so just shake it off!
CONGRATS! You are such a strong and brave woman! We only plan on having two kids but we want them close together, you totally give me faith that we can do it!!! xo from the internet. We all heart you!
Your title works both ways, 34 and going from 3 kids to 4. Did you do that on purpose? ha! I’m so very happy and a little overwhelmed for you. there was a comedian who said. “what’s it like having 4 kids? Imagine your drowning… and then someone hands you a baby.” But really, you will do great, you are a loving caring momma and you have great help around you.
Congratulations! Although, I don’t recall ever seeing a picture you looked pregnant in (as you just had a baby anyways!), I have felt like you would be sharing a pregnancy announcement (that makes me sound like a crazy lady!). It was hard for me to announce my pregnancy as I knew others out there were struggling as I did for 5 or 6 years prior to getting help, but you can’t let that or the snarky people ruin your happiness or be afraid to share things. I don’t know how you have energy for 3, but it will work out for 4. On the plus side, you won’t forget how to take care of a newborn and this pregnancy will be short! 🙂 Thank you for sharing with us! Your readers are here to support you!
CONGRATULATIONS!! You are going to do a FANTASTIC job with four!! <3
congrats!!!!!! fwiw, I had doctors who couldn’t tell I was preggers with #2 at 28 weeks, so the belly can LIE!!!!!!!
God bless your family!
Congrats on your new baby! I’m so happy for you and your beautiful family!
Oh, Congrats! I felt the same way when we had surprise pregnancy #3. But you’re right. God will take care of you, and you are exactly where you are supposed to be! I’ve heard after 3, it’s all chaos, so it doesn’t matter how many more you add to the mix. And, I came from a family of 10 kids. 🙂 It will be great! Take care of yourself!
Haters be gone! This is awesome! Another blessed Bower baby. Congratulations and best wishes for a great 18 weeks ahead!
Happy birthday and congratulations!!!
I must admit, when I read how sick you were on the cruise, my first thought was, “Pregnant!” 😀
I love reading about your cute little family and all your adventures. So happy the family is growing. Congratulations!
Congratulations on number 4! I turned 3-4 this week too, that is 34 weeks along with #4! I too have been reluctant to announce my current pregnancy because let’s face it, having 4 kids under age 5 is not supposed to be normal and I fear the negative reactions and the “don’t you know what birth control is” remarks. (Btw, we also were using contraceptives, so.. big surprise for us.)
Can’t wait to find out what you’re having. I’ve got three girls already and this one is a surprise…
I knew you were pregnant back in December! You were glowing and I could see it in every single photo. Congrats!!!! I bet its a girl!
Let me just say that I realize that I don’t know you, but this has just made my day! Hugest of congratulations to you and that sweet sweet family of yours. What a blessing to watch those sweet kiddos grow up so close together in age!
First off CONGRATS! And I love how you found out, I think that will be the best story when the little one gets bigger… And you are an amazing mom, you can do it. My friend just had her 4th baby and her kids are 5 and under, she said it is tiring but amazing!
This post made me really happy 🙂
SOO EXCITING! Congratulations!
I cried when I first found out I was pregnant with my daughter, and now I laugh at how silly that was because she seriously is the best thing that has ever happened to our family. One thing that I learned throughout my pregnancy was to not give an F@*$ what people have to say about it (unwed mother and the father is black… I’m sure you can guess where people go with that). That child was being welcomed into a home where both her parents and our family was going to smother her with love and people’s opinions and judgements weren’t going to change anything except try to beat us down. Anyways, I’m so excited for you guys and can’t wait to hear more about Bower Baby #4!!
Alsooo… did you find out the gender?! 🙂
Congrats Katie 🙂
Did Sherry fall over when you told her?!
Wow, Katie!!! That is so exciting! Terrifying, for sure, but just awesome! Congrats to you and that beautiful group of guys you have!
Happy birthday and congrats!! Super excited for you guys. I think we’re going to stop at 2, but I have to say, I am THRILLED for you, because your house will be SO FULL OF LOVE AND FUN and I bet Christmas morning there is the best!!! Hope the rest of your pregnancy goes as well (and calmly) as the first half!
Congrats!!! I have been following for over 3 years now and was SHOCKED to read that!! I LOVE how you threw the news in there all cool, like no biggie…. well I am so happy for you and your boys (and man)!!!!
Congratulations! What a super surprise! You are truly blessed and God will give you what you need to be wonderful parents to 4 gorgeous Bower kids…the more, the merrier!
CON-GRAT-U-LAAAAAAAA-TIONS!!!!!! (Imagine me yelling that and clapping, because that’s basically what I did when I read this!) WOW! 22 weeks!!! I’m so glad you’re so far along already because that means we won’t have to wait as long until he or she is here!!!
Wow! Amazing news Katie! Congratulations 🙂 I’m always amazed at how much you manage to get done with 3 little boys in your house! You are an amazing Mum and your new little one is blessed to be loved so much already!
Congratulations! You brought me to tears. You are an amazing mom and an amazing wife, and I have no doubt that you will give your boys, your husband and your new addition everything you’ve got.
One question, will there be a sex reveal?
Oh wow that is so special. I am #4 in my family and as my dad said the best oops he could ask for. Love your blog and often wonder how u get so much done. You r one amazing lady and a great momma. Congrats!
Congratulations, Katie, on your amazing news, and happy birthday! Can’t wait to meet the next adorable baby Bower! Your sweet family is absolutely precious, and you & Jeremy are so inspiring. Love your blog and don’t know how you manage to do it all. Like Angie, above, I found you through other blogs (Young House Love, mainly) and have been reading for years (but never commented) and felt compelled to after reading this post. There’s obviously a huge community of us out here that LOVE you & your family, so please bask in that and all of our well wishes for your pregnancy (and ignore the haters!). Best wishes that the second half of your pregnancy is as smooth as the first has been. 🙂
Congratulations! I am so happy for you and your family! A small part of me was so scared that you were telling some sort of un-funny birthday joke 😛
Have you told the boys yet?
I hate that you have to feel any sort of apprehension about sharing news about such a blessing.
I see what you did there with that title 😉 Congrats on the news – your mention of wanting your child to know how much you want them made me swell up with emotion. I’m very happy for you and your family.
Congrats!
congrats!! that’s so exciting!!! I hope its a girl!!! even though any baby is a blessing!
Congratulations!! Blessings to you and your family 🙂
Congrats girl! You got this!! There’s no doubt 🙂
Holy Cow! Congrats and Happy Birthday!
All I have to say is that I am so jealous you found out at 22 weeks! I am due in 5 weeks and really wished I could have skipped the first 20 weeks because of how emotional I was and how hard it all seemed. I swear since week 22 I became a normal person again and now like being pregnant!
As for the haters…channel your inner Taylor Swift and “Shake it Off” 🙂
Congrats again, I really hope when I find out I am pregnant with number 2 I am 22 weeks along!
Congrats…I think it’s super exciting! Do you know if it’s a boy or girl yet? BTW – you and Jeremy make the cutest babies. Don’t late the haters get you down…you totally rock!
Congratulations!!!! That is an amazing birthday present! Your boys are SO cute! Will you be finding out the sex of the baby?
22 weeks?! So you’ve had your anatomy scan? Any names picked out?
Congratulations! Each and every baby is a blessing! Since you are 22 weeks does this mean you know what you are having?
I totally understand not knowing you’re pregnant until that late, because it happened to me too. I was 30 weeks at my first appointment, and for many of the same reasons. I didn’t have the kicking to tell me since it was my first pregnancy and I didn’t know to look for it. I have a digestive issue that makes crazy feelings in my stomach normal, and we didn’t think I could get pregnant, so that wasn’t even on my radar.
Congratulations! Your house will be a total CIRCUS, but the best kind of circus!
I ready your blog every day and have enjoyed seeing your growing family. Congratulations to the Bower family!
Yay! I am one of four kids and it is awesome! Oddly enough, It was always chaos and always calming. We are three girls and one boy… Maybe the exact opposite of the Bowers?! 😉
One thing that is hilarious though, is that if you ask each one of us kids, we will each SWEAR that we were the favorite. I’d say that’s pretty good parenting LOL.
Congratulations!!! Y’all are wonderful parents and this baby is so fortunate to be in your family. So happy for y’all!!!! Oh – and happy birthday:)
We must be due at the same time, I’m also 22 weeks! I’ve known since October (we were actively trying for our first), so I can’t imagine the shock of finding out so far along. A big congratulations!!!
I’m so very happy for you and your family. Please, please, please ignore the haters. I’ve read your blog for a little over a year and feel like we’re buds I feel I can say this and it not be weird: you are loved and I wish nothing but happiness for you. Congratulations Bower Family!
Oh this is so great!! I love this news! I was thinking your seasickness could have been morning sickness when I read that post 🙂 Congratulations!!
Congratulations and best wishes to you and your family!
Congrats Bowers! I will admit my jaw dropped when I read that you were pregnant with another little one, my daughter just turned 2 in January and I can’t imagine having another one just yet. You are SUPERWOMAN!! So excited to see what you guys are having!
Just when I thought I was catching up lol I am due with #3 in the spring. Congratulations! We suffered a devastating miscarriage during the summer. It was just awful for us. We found out that somehow 2 1/2 weeks later we got pregnant with this one. She is healthy and kicks like the dickens! 22 weeks is pretty impressive! Just think you are almost done! At least you found out now and wont be featured on a future TLC show hehe
Congratulations! And man! What a surprise!
I was pregnant with my first just a month behind you with Weston. I’m pregnant again, this time with twins (talk about a surprise!) and at the beginning of the announcement I thought, “I’m ahead this time!” That was until you announced how far along you are!
I hope the rest of your pregnancy goes smoothly!
Happy birthday and congratulations!! This so exciting! I am pregnant with number three and am excited to journey with you during the surprise pregnancy!
A huge congrats to you! I was the 4th baby in my family and a total surprise. I feel so lucky I got all the love of a bunch of siblings and two parents who were much less stressed by the time round 4 came around. You’re baby is lucky to have you and your husband and family. 🙂 Sending love and blessings your way!
Oh Katie! Congrats to you and the Bower Boys!! What a blessing for all of you <3
Surprise babies are special miracles – can't wait to meet this new little one!
I know it must be hard sharing your life so publicly, but lots if us are really glad that you do 🙂
Congrats Bower family!!!! What a wonderful gift from God:)
Congratulations!!!
I’m not normally a commenter but I want you to have as much positive encouragement as you can read! Forget the nay-sayers, you are an amazing mom, an amazing woman, and an amazing wife (obviously, from your hubbies Instagram hack; that was just too cute), and you make damn adorable babies! Here’s wishing you an easy pregnancy, another safe and wonderful birth, and all the strength in the world to keep up with 4 little ones. You got this!
Congratulations! I love your blog and think you are pretty awesome! What a wonderful surprise! I wish you only the best!
I don’t know if I’ve ever commented, but LJ and my fourth were born on the same day last year. 🙂 A huge congrats on your newest little love. “Like a shepherd, he tends his flock. He gathers the lambs in his arms, carries them close to his heart, and gently leads the mother sheep.” Isaiah 40:11
Congratulations! You really seem like a wonderful, loving family. I’m sorry that you have to worry before sharing amazing news. I think it’s adorable your little one had to kick you to announce himself/herself… sounds like a fourth baby for sure! haha
Can’t wait for the gender reveal. A pink princess would be so fun and exciting, but I really dig the idea of the little baseball team you’re sprouting.
Congratulations again. Don’t let the haters get you down. More of us love you, we’re just too busy with our own little ones to comment as often as the no life haters.
I can barely handle two little boys 🙂 My husband’s Grandmother had 7 children all 1-2 years apart. Simply amazing in my eyes. She is still an amazing caring woman. I love asking her to tell stories of what it was like raising so many kids. Her answer is always the same, “an adventure.” Congrats Bowers! Your amazing “adventure” continues!
Happy birthday and congratulations! I just wanted to say that you always impress me with your supreme kindness and thoughtfulness towards others. If more people were like you the world would be a happier place!
Congrats! That’s exciting and wonderful news!
Woo to the hoo!!!! Is it awful to say im hoping for a girl? But you make such cute babies, it will be great just knowing there will be wonderful men in the future too!!! Congratulations!
Oh, Katie, I made the best joyful laugh just now…scared the dog! Ha! What’s that old saying, “Life happens while you’re making plans!” I am so thrilled for you and your family! Our lives have become so planned out and organized that it’s hard to be truly-deep-down-God-honest-surprised.
Enjoy these days!
Wow, congrats! Very exciting news.
http://www.mintnotion.com
Congrats!!! What a blessing!!!
Yay Bowers! So happy for you guys! Not knowing happens! I was 18 weeks when I found out. What a great suprise. I’m sure there will be overwhelming times ahead as well as overwhelming amounts of love. You’ve got this!!
Ahhhhhhh!!!!! Congratulations!!!! May all these good comments fortify you against the haters-as a wise boy band once said “Bye bye bye!” to all them naysayers 😉
I am sorry that this beautiful blog has been a place unknown people find joy in being nasty and mean. Just remember that GOD has blessed this blog and your family. You have given me so many ideas and the pictures of the boys make me smile. My sister has four boys, so I hope this surprise is a girl, but if not, you won’t have to buy new clothes! Enjoy your time with the kids even when you want to run away from home for awhile. OH AND HAPPY BIRTHDAY! Sending love and prayers!
Congrats Bowers! So maybe the queasy motion sickness on the cruise had nothing to do with the boat! ;).
Congratulations Katie and family!! I am so excited for your beautiful growing family! Like so many have already commented – EVERY baby is a blessing. I hope you continue to share and post about this pregnancy and delivery like you have with Will, Weston and LJ.
Will you be sharing the gender???
Congrats Katie!! That’s amazing, fantastic news!!! I’m so happy for you. Happy birthday too. 34 is a good year…it was for me!!! 😉
Awh congratulations… I don’t usually comment but I just wanted to say that (even though I don’t even know you!), you truly seem like you have such a wonderful, loving heart….a good soul. Im so sorry people feel the need to scrutinize hidden behind their computer screen :)!
Oh and ps…. you make beautiful babies!!! Put LJ in modelling… you’ll make a million bucks off that kid 😉
Nothing but joy and good vibes coming your way from Seattle! Love your blog, your transparency (even though I know it’s so difficult at times) and your sense of humor! Congratulations!
Brooke & Will (my 2-year-old son)
Congratulations!
Talk about a surprise! The fear is understandable, but you are a strong woman with a strong support system. I just hope you can get some you time once in a while.
And Happy Birthday!
Congratulations!! I sympathize with how you found out and telling everyone. Thank you for staying honest and transparent.
Congrats! I am so sorry you were worried about announcing it here. No one should make negative comments like that. And as someone who has to really try to get pregnant, while it’s foreign to me to have a surprise pregnancy or not over analyze every first trimester symptom, I would never criticize someone who gets pregnant easily. All pregnancies and babies are a blessing. I love your husband’s reaction!
Wow. You are amazing Katie Bower.
Is it a BOY or GIRL?
Do your readers get to know?
Holy moly girlfriend! I DID NOT see that coming lol! I’m so happy for you. I was just thinking about you the other day and wondering when your next would be haha. Here’s to shaking off any negative nancy’s easily- I know that can be difficult. But really. what a lucky baby to have you as a mother! So excited!
Yay for babies! Congrats!
Part of the reason I love reading your blog is honest moments like this one. Thanks for always being “you”.
Oh, and of course, congratulations on your newest little one in the making :).
Congrats!! How exciting! You almost could’ve had your own segment on the Discovery channel’s I Didn’t Know I Was Pregnant! 😉 When I read the title, I knew it was going to be a pregnant announcement, and was really bummed when you were just talking about your birthday. Glad I kept reading! 🙂
Congratulations, i am so happy for you. You have a wonderful family
This Is AWESOME. And I particularly love that you discovered this pregnancy later than usual; you probably don’t have a moment to even think about surprises like this, so it makes sense to me. Truly, truly so very happy for your family. All babies are blessings in all circumstances.
Congratulations! I can’t even imagine the shock/surprise, but how lovely. I love how you have babies and want all the babies and I am so excited that it’s all happening again. I can say that because I just get to take in all the good bits from afar.You’ll be great at this and as you already said, God wants this for you. My thoughts of support are with you, that the rest of the pregnancy will be easy as and non-event that it has been so far, what a breeze! LOL. Happy Birthday to you too. OH and I guess from now on, the only way you Bower rabbits can “actively prevent” in the future is NOT.TO.DO.IT ! Hahaha..
I love it! Best story ever. Each of your children are going to love hearing the stories about how you discovered they were going to join your family. Congratulations.
Wow! Congratulations! I’m 10 days from having baby #3! Wishing you the best of luck and and a ton of energy! You are an incredible mama and this is just another blessing from God! You are truly blessed! 🙂
I never comment either, but had to today to wish you a happy birthday and tell you congratulations! What an exciting, scary, wonderful surprise!
Haters gonna hate (hate, hate, hate, hate), but the VAST majority of us are thrilled for your family! Xo
As another one who doesn’t comment much, Congratulations Mama Bower, you got this, no problem!!!! The ONLY real life problem you need to worry about is “Pink or Blue”? Is there irony in the fact that you turned 3-4 & going from 3 babies to 4????
YAY! So excited for you, your family, and that we get to ‘meet’ Bower baby #4 so soon! You are a great inspiration for what a great ‘young’ish’ (In your own words) mom looks like! You rock. Also, you DID marry a great guy, so glad you acknowledge and appreciate him for what a great hubby and dad he is! People like you two deserve as many blessings as possible.
Keep on truckin’ Katie!, and we’ll keep reading!
We are blessed to have to kiddos, now teenagers…yikes! We were on birth control both times I got pregnant. What a shock! Just wanted to say congrats and don’t let the negative comments get you down.
Congrats! I was thinking about your post the other day that you posted a couple years ago when you were trying for #2 without success and were frustrated. We’ve been trying for just over a year and I thought back to your post many times – it was nice to know others have been in the same boat. Well, we just found out this morning, that we are finally PREGNANT! This is baby #1 for us and we are beyond excited. Please pray for us that the first trimester goes without issue 🙂
Congratulations! Wonderful news! I love your blog, I have never commented before, but I wanted to give you a happy post.
Congrats Katie! A baby is a sweet blessing from God and who in their right mind couldn’t be happy about that? I don’t think anyone wishes anything poorly on you or your family. I just know it is hard to imagine not so long ago you were crying out on your blog about being “infertile,” after only a few months of trying and not getting pregnant. There are women all over this world that wait YEARS to conceive and often cannot do so naturally. Sometimes your choice of words is ill-fitting. That, among other times you’ve put your foot in your mouth, is the real issue I think some of your readers have.
Nonetheless, I’ll keep coming back. Y’all are some DIY superstars and that’s really what I like to see in the end.
Holy cow, Katie. What an amazing, exciting surprise!!! God knows what He is doing, girl, and He would not have given you this sweet blessing if He knew you and Jeremy couldn’t handle it in His strength. He will give you everything you need. Thank you for being so transparent with us, I know it must be difficult with all the haters out there. Just keep remembering that everything you do is for God’s glory, not man’s praise. CONGRATULATIONS, sweet sister. Love you.
Congratulations! What fun and exciting news!! I’m so sorry you have to deal with any negativity during this awesome time, but remember the majority of us are SO pumped for your news!! You and your blog are awesome! Keep it up and get some sleep 🙂
WOW!!! So maybe the other big surprise is some estrogen in your testosterone filled world!!! Either way we all know that baby will be loved to the moon and back!!! Congrats to you and as a mama whose one and only baby boy turns 24 tomorrow….snuggle hard and often and kiss them every time they’ll let you!!! 🙂
I’ve read your blog for awhile, but never commented. I just wanted to encourage you and say “Congratulations!!!!”. We had 4 boys in 5 years. It was a little crazy, but it sounds like you have the kind of supportive husband and friends that I did. Our boys are almost all teenagers now and I love how close they are, and wouldn’t do it any other way. God is so faithful!
Daaaamn Katie! Fertile Myrtle lol! Congratulations and I think I speak for the entire internet when I say I hope it’s a girl!! So exciting! 🙂
So exciting Katie! You shouldn’t have to worry about what others think so much! It’s a sure sugn of your success though that the trolls on Gomi and other sites care so much about your personal life!
Congrats Bower crew! So happy for you all, and wishing you a healthy pregnancy. God bless!
I’ve been reading your blog for a while now and I find you absolutely refreshing. I also cried when i found out I was pregnant with my last child. Our older daughter was only 6 most old and she was a REALLY tough kid. Its okay to be terrified. I was terrified. And as a full-time working parent of two kids under the age of 2.5, i’m always exhausted. But they are beautiful and wonderful and I wouldn’t trade them for anything.
Good luck!
WOW!! Congratulations and Happy Birthday!!!! I am not sure what is more surprising, the fact that you are half way and just found out or that you did ALL those projects, raising three boys and got through all the holidays?! You must have crazy energy!!! Now girlfriend… go sit down and get some rest!! Seriously, you need to donate that uterus to science…not only are you super fertile but the babies never want to leave :0) Here’s to a smooth second half of your pregnancy and an easy delivery.
Oh wow
Congratulations! I too just recently found out I’m expecting out third child.
I’m beyond terrified, but very excited as well. Your blog has given me hope that I can handle another sweet bundle of joy among the chaos that my two boys create from time to time, haha.
Wishing you and your family a wonderful year.
Happy Birthday and congratulations, Katie!
I always read your blog but rarely stop by to comment, but I just wanted to say that you have plenty of proof that God wanted you to have this baby, and even made sure you only found out close to your birthday so you would not be able to question that this baby is His gift to you and your family!
Best wishes to you and yours!
And don’t let people bring you down with their negative words, you are inspiring and genuine, and that is hard to find nowadays 🙂
Congratulations Bowers! My two little ones are 14 months apart, currently 1.5 and 2.5. I was scared out of my mind as well. You have way more mothering experience than I do, so I know you will do just fine!
Katie:
I have never commented before. But I just wanted to pop in and tell you that I think you handled your post with grace.
Congratulations and best of luck!
Katie, you don’t know me from Adam, but I’m so happy for you. I am also truly sorry that you have to deal with snark. Those people would in all likelihood never say a mean thing to your face, but they feel that they can be rude with the filter of the computer screen between them and you. Blessings on you and your lovely family.
Congratulations! May you and Jeremy be blessed with health, extra reserves of energy, joy and confidence that the Lord is the one planning your family! I don’t even know you, but I am so grateful for your transparency and letting us see glimpses into your home.
I was in the process of adopting when I found out I was pregnant for the second time. Let me tell you, I was ANGRY. and annoyed. It wasn’t a good couple of weeks for me. It’s such a lame myth that we should all be perfectly happy and excited whenever we face big life changes like getting married or having a kid. Life is more complex than that. WE are more complex than that. I am so glad that you are elated now. I am elated for you! Enjoy the wild ride! (And you must know the gender! Are you gonna share?)
Congratulations!!!! Love your blog and can’t wait to see the newest little one.
So, so happy for you and your family (and so bummed you can’t process this “normally” because of internet drama). You’re a beautiful woman and your boys’ faces are always so full of joy – you’re obviously “meant” to be a mother, and you should never for a second feel guilty about your blessings. I hope what happened with your dear friend re: blogging and being a “public figure” doesn’t happen to you as well. I enjoy you. xo
Katie, I never comment but am a loyal reader and I had to weigh in on this. First, congrats! Second, it broke my heart to hear people accused you of photoshopping your christmas card. Don’t people have more important things to do with their time? Surprises can be the greatest gifts and as we know If God wants something to happen it will happen. Blessings to you and your darling family, I can’t wait to hear about your newest adventure!
Amazing and hilarious that #4 had to let you know they were in there! (By ‘they’ I mean gender-neutral pronoun, not suggesting you look like you’re having twins, because you are correct that you don’t ‘look’ pregnat.) Can’t wait to see you’re family grow…maybe a little sister for all those boys to protect would be fun…
Katie,
I’ve never commented before, but I’ve been reading since Will was teeny. I love your blog. Love. It. Congratulations on this exciting news. I am so sad that you worried about what strangers would think. So sad that people put time and effort into being judgemental and rude. I hope you keep doing what you’re doing. Hugs.
well this is awkward. As I read your previous posts over the last couple of months I’ve looked at the photo’s and been sure you were pregnant, just not ready to announce. (Definitely not belly shaming, there is enough unnecessary judgement out there). Now I feel bad for not telling you!
Congratulations and best wishes xxx
First time commenter couldnt be quiet any more after this post. Congratulations Katie and Jeremy this baby will truly be blessed to have you as parents ive always admired your ability to let us into your lives like you do and be so graceful in the process ,rude comments and all . My fourth is due in april and im 6 years younger then you:) but i too have an awesome husband and an even greater God that i serve all things are possible …only believe 🙂 p.s. your mom sounds awesome , just saying:)
Congratulations! How exciting!
xo – kb
We don’t know yet. In my gut it is another boy though…all the symptoms are the same.
xo – kb
I don’t know yet but I could have found out.
xo – kb
We had the primary ultrasound where they determine growth….I have to go to Emory and have a real intensive anatomy scan where they see and measure everything. I am sure they would be able to tell me if that is what we choose…we haven’t made any real decision yet. And names – we have a girls name (we had it as back up for Weston and LJ) but no boys name yet.
xo – kb
Congratulations Mama! How exciting! I’m always in awe of how much you seem to accomplish in your days having 3 children while I feel like I get 1/4 as much done with just one of my own. You rock! Please don’t leave us!!! We’ll be praying for you and your family during this busy and exciting time for y’all!!
We did but only Will really understands. He had the cutest reaction though 🙂
xo – kb
We don’t know yet but we can find out next week if we choose to…I’m not sure what we are gonna do (find out or wait).
xo – kb
Oh for sure…we just don’t know when (the birth or earlier!).
xo – kb
We don’t know yet. We just haven’t had time to decide yet.
xo – kb
Oh geesh. That’s like a DOUBLE surprise!
xo – kb
We don’t know yet. We are still processing all this.
xo – kb
She was super excited….but she thought we were TRYING so I think she was even more surprised when I told her that we were preventing.
xo – kb
Ooohhh….hope you have an easy and safe delivery!
xo – kb
Did you like that title….I sometimes celebrate my rare moments of wit 🙂
xo – kb
We don’t know yet…we just are still processing everything.
xo – kb
Congratulations! Who are these awful people? Just because you put your life out there doesn’t mean you or your family deserve to be bullied. I hope you keep on keeping on and ignore the haters!
Congratulations Katie!!
I’ve been reading your blog for a few years now and thought today of all days is a great time to post my first comment. I’m sure it so hard being criticized everyday by Internet trolls looking for a quick buzz by being nasty key pushers, but the rest of us love you and thank you for entertaining us week in and week out! It’s your life and you have every right to live it the way you feel is right for you and your family.
So again, congratulations, you have a wonderful family xxxx
Katie~
I actually thought you looked pregnant looking at the pic on your sock post- the one with you on the excercise equipment. I actually posted asking you- and my comment got deleted. I apologize for calling that out before you were ready. I meant no harm- I sincerely was asking if you were expecting cause I don’t read your blog regularly enough to know if it was already out there. You’ve made it clear that you want lots of kids- so I wasn’t suprised when I saw the pic.
Anyway- congrats-
It feels weird that I already knew that you were pregnant for a while!!
three – four, clever!
Seriously, missing the whole fist half of pregnancy is way better than trying and not getting pregnant. Congratulations! Your personality shines through in your blog, and you are an awesome mom.
Congratulations, Katie! I have been following you for a short time and feel we have so much in common. I also have three boys around the ages of yours (mine are 5, 4, and 9 months). I’m so happy for you and your family!! 🙂
I loved the title!!
Have you read this?
http://www.theguardian.com/society/2015/feb/02/what-happened-confronted-cruellest-troll-lindy-west
Congratulations Bower Family!!!!!! I totally relate…I had four four years old and under. They are 7, 5, 4, and 3 now and our days are crazy but I wouldn’t have had it any other way! In fact, I’m trying to convince hubby to have two more. 🙂 Love you and your family and wishing you all the best for your pregnancy and new baby!
Congratulations! That kiddo is certainly lucky for being the newest addition to the Bower crowd!
Congratulations!! What a blessing! Take your time letting it sink in – of course it’s a shock!
Amazing Katie, congrats to you and your husband!!! I always secretly wanted to be one of those people that didn’t realize they were expecting until 4+ months. Never happened but what shocker that must have been. Your family is beautiful.
Love the double entendre blog title. 🙂 Our second happened the same way, 18 months apart, no cycle. Don’t worry. With only 2, people stop us and ask us if we know what causes them…..uh, duh! 🙂
Congrats! Hope I’m blessed with 4, too! 🙂
Congratulations! I am a long-time reader, but I don’t comment much, if ever. Anyway, I am blessed with a healthy, happy 14-month old boy, and just these past couple of weeks, we went through the roller coaster of finding out that I was unexpectedly pregnant and then I miscarried. I am telling you this to also tell you that I am deep-down-from-the-bottom-of-my-heart happy for you. God is good, all of the time. In your life right now, He is good. In my life right now, He is good. And I pray blessings on your pregnancy and this baby!
Well what do I know, I was asking you a few weeks ago what you were doing to look so slim and fit! haha. I am so happy for you. I always seem to remember that you’ve always said you’d love to have lots and lots of kids, and I think you will be just fine with four (or more!) Congratulations!!!!!!
God is good, all the time! As a mother of 6, with 2 now in college and the first 5 in under 10 years- they do grow up and oh so fast! I would not trade anything in this world for my 5 siblings- they are at the top of the list when I count my blessings. I hope my kids feel the same some day.
How exciting! I can see you with 4 boys, because you do boys so well. You have you little niece already, but it would be icing on the cake if you do have a girl! Is LJ one year yet? I remember hearing that babies don’t like mother’s milk when they are pregnant, but obviously that wasn’t the case with LJ.! It’s obvious that God has a plan for you and your family. You are meant to be a mom of at least four! ….. Good job on all the organizing you have been doing. I am proud of you. That is a lot of work!! I think you and Jeremy are amazing parents. All the boys are so precious and loving. You are indeed blessed! Congratulations, Bowers!
Happy birthday! Did you purposely make the post title a pun? You turned 34 and your going from 3 kids to 4! How fitting! Looking forward to chapter 4!
Happy birthday, Katie! And congratulations Jeremy and Katie!
Katie – Happy belated birthday and congratulations! I don’t normally comment but wanted to post some love. I’m really sorry that people are so mean. The Internet can be a crazy place. I so appreciate how honest you are and I know that telling us this wasn’t easy. I look forward to following along as you welcome this fourth babe into your family!
I never comment on anything but I just feel the need to tell you congratulations. You are such an inspiration!!!
Ok, I’ve been a reader since you were pregnant with Will!! I totally knew when I read this posts title!!! You’re going from three to four! 🙂 You’re so clever. Congrats to you both and loved Jeremy’s response!
Congratations!!! How exciting for ya’ll!
Congratulations! So excited for you. Thank you for sharing your news and your beautiful writing.
Love that the title has a double meaning- three to four and thirty four
SO happy for you! Congratulations… and sending you lots of energy to store up or use now!!
you are an inspiration!
Yay!! It would be crazy to find out half way through. I only ‘hope’ it’s a girl to see you decorate a girl nursery. Very exciting! And Happy birthday!!!
That’s such wonderful news Katie! I will be honest that I am in that small group of people that may not be as happy…..However, I’ve learnt over the past few years that whether I’m happy or not a new baby will be joining us and that’s always an amazing thing. So while I may not jump for joy I feel nothing but joy for you and your family.
P.s. I’m pretty partial to that L.J. so I don’t know how your going to top that but I’m excited to see!
Happy birthday! What a wonderful birthday surprise. Congratulations to you and the rest of your growing family. 🙂
Congratulations Katie! I am a Momma of four little ones ( All girls!) and love that with four they each have a buddy! We’ll be praying for you and your growing family!
God Bless,
Becky
Congratulations! So exciting! When I saw your bday pic yesterday I though you looked gorgeous and skinny…. 34 and pregnant looks great on you!
3 kiddos to 4 kiddos…. just turned 3-4! Congratulations and happy birthday!
SO EXCITED FOR YOU!!!! You’re super woman. I have no doubt you’ll do awesome will another lil’ Bower!
Congrats!!! This is an awesome story for your little one!!! I love reading your blog because of your honesty and hilarious writing style AND because you help encourage me to build people up, not judge, and be honest especially with other moms – we all need a reminder we are not alone in the struggles. Please keep on sharing your life and journey with us! You rock.
Hi, Katie. I’m a long time reader…but this might be my first time commenting. I just want to say congratulations! What a story you have for your next sweet little one! Wishing you all the best.
What an awesome surprise! Congratulations Bower Family! Wishing you a happy, healthy pregnancy and another beautiful, sweet (I hope it’s a girl) addition!
Oh and Happy Birthday! You make 34 look amazing!
Congrats that is all that matters. I am so sorry you are dealing with negativity but know that there are people out there that are so excited for you. And I am trying to get pregnant with my second but I am so soo excited for you. It doesn’t bother me, what I want for me is so different than what you want, but I wish you all the luck in the world,. Best wishes, and glad you are more than half way done, what a great pregnancy. Wish they all could be that way.
I’ve been reading your blog for awhile (love it!) and just had to comment to say CONGRATS! You are so blessed to have a such beautiful family. I know you will be just fine, you are a great momma!
Oh my gosh, Happy Birthday!!! I turned the big three-five today. I always wanted four but we stopped at two. Wishing you all the best!
Yay Katie, Jeremy, and boys!!! How exciting and what a fun (if shocking) way to find out. This will be such a fun story to tell baby someday 🙂 Can’t wait to go with you on your journey to becoming a family of six (six!). Sending love and prayers your way!!!
PS your title for this post is oh-so-clever. Love it!
first time commenter as well, and I too just couldn’t keep quiet. Congratulations to you and your family! It may have caught you off guard, but God knew all along, and he knows you’re a great mom who can handle four kiddos! I came from a family of four girls and it’s honestly one of the biggest blessings. There are 12 years between me (the oldest) and my youngest sister, and despite the age differences, they are my best friends and the people who get me the most. Your kids will be so lucky they have each other. I have 2 kids, 17 months apart and that is tiring enough, and I don’t have a second job. So, don’t beat yourself up, you’re doing a great job. And you look fabulous! By 22 weeks people start to question if I’m having twins!
Katie, I have followed your blog for quite sometime but haven’t ever commented before. I just want to say that this is exactly what happened to me 10 years ago! I was 19 weeks when I found out I was expecting baby#4. My baby #3 was 8 months old at the time. God is so much wiser than us! Baby #4 has been a blessing from that moment we discovered he was coming! I call him my unexpected blessing. He has brought such joy and happiness to our home. I know that your #4 will do the same. May God bless you as He has me!
Congratulations!! I have two little ones about Weston and LJ’s age, and I know I’d have a similar reaction to you if I found out I was 22 weeks pregnant now too 🙂 Wow, but you can do it!! If God leads you to it, He will lead you through it. That’s been my motto with my two so far. I know you are beyond adequate and you are quite inspiring. I have to tell you also, that having many (and I do mean MANY) siblings myself, there is no greater gift in life. God Bless you all.
as a mom to 4 kids age 5 and under, I love this! Your kids will love being so close together in age….at least that’s what I tell myself right now haha! It will all be worth it! Congrats!
Katie, I’ve read your blog for a while but never commented. CONGRATULATIONS! I am so happy for you! I had 4 boys in 7 years and although there are challenging times, there is WAY more joy! I have no doubt you will be just fine and those children will be great playmates together. Hugs to you all.
Just so you know…I never said that I was infertile. Never. I said I was tired of waiting. And I would never say it because I know women…the best most gracious women on the planet…that dealt with real infertility….decades of waiting, loss, treatment and heartbreak. I would never put myself in that category. Please don’t put those words in my mouth. I do have my foot in there quite often and my choice of words can be ill-fitting…that is true. Just wanted to clarify because that is something that people have said in the past and I don’t want it to be confusing.
xo – kb
I’m very punny like that 🙂
xo – kb
I’m sorry to hear that Sarah. My heart really goes out to you.
xo – kb
LJ is ten months! And he is definitely weaning.
xo – kb
I didn’t want to lie to anyone but I had just found out the week you asked…so I definitely wasn’t ready to share with the world at large (in fact, the only people that knew were my parents, Pappap and Jeremy!). I hope you weren’t offended that I kept your comment in moderation…I just thought it was better to wait and go to the doc before telling anyone online. Thanks for understanding.
xo – kb
Nope we didn’t. I am sure we could have but I was alone and we hadn’t decided yet if we would.
xo – kb
Yay for surprises! And I hear ya on those comments….they can be unknowingly hard to swallow!
xo – kb
I’m glad you liked the title….I feel like sometimes I have half a brain cell left 🙂
xo – kb
We didn’t find out yet.
xo – kb
We probably will not share the name until the baby is born and we are undecided about finding out the sex. We probably could find out next week at the big ultrasound but we haven’t made a decision just simply because it is all happening so fast.
xo – kb
Will really is such a big helper already! I love that I can ask him for a size 3 diaper and he knows where to go and get one for me! He loves that he gets a penny 🙂
xo – kb
Haha! Nope I don’t know yet (it’s all happening really fast!)…but I have a gut feeling it’s a boy!
xo – kb
We just haven’t decided…everything is going at warp speed…and if I am 2 weeks late like always then there will be 15 months between them.
xo – kb
Not yet!
xo – kb
Thanks for the recommendation!
xo – kb
Congratulations to you! What a wonderful surprise!
xo – kb
We don’t know yet. The first appointment was just me and we really haven’t had a chance to decide if we are finding out yet.
xo – kb
Wow! What happy news!!!! Congrats Bower family! As the oldest of four, I think 4 is *maybe* the perfect number of kids to have! 😉 I found out last July the day after my 40th birthday that I’m expecting our third!!! Talk about a SHOCK!!! Little boy #3 is coming in about 8 weeks and I can not wait! Congrats, Katie! So exciting!!!!
We haven’t made that decision yet….it’s just everything is happening ridiculously fast.
xo – kb
Haha! And we don’t know yet….probably could have found out…but everything is going so fast and I was alone at the appointment….we will have to decide when things simmer down a little!
xo – kb
Congratulations to you! My third little guy is definitely my sweetie pie. The other boys love their daddy but LJ is all mama’s!
xo – kb
We haven’t had a chance to decide…it’s just a lot to find out and figure out. Usually you get 20 weeks to decide!
xo – kb
Thanks Raechel! Everyone keeps telling me 4 is easier than 3 but it’s so hard to believe! Congrats to you guys too!
xo – kb
Whoa….hold your horses 🙂 I just found out I was pregnant…let me get that settled down before I gotta make any other decisions!
xo – kb
We honestly haven’t decided if we are finding out…it just seems like a lot to think about right now….everything is a lot on us right now. If I find out before hand, we will let you know…just like always.
xo – kb
We just haven’t figured that out yet…if we will or if we will wait. It just is a lot to process right now and we are trying to take it a day at a time.
xo – kb
Yay! And you look fabulous for 22 weeks! We had a friend find out she was pregnant at 16 weeks because they made her do a pregnancy test before lasic. Needless to say she did not get the lasic done at that time. 😉 You aren’t alone in the surprise boat! Congrats again!
If we find it out, yes…just like always! But we haven’t decided….we usually have more time to make that decision…so it just seems a lot on our plate at once.
xo – kb
We haven’t decided if we are finding out. In the past we have found out but this time, we don’t know yet. It all seems like it is flying at warp speed!
xo – kb
Will is really excited. He always talks about having babies in our house and he loves kissing my belly.
xo – kb
Congratulations Katie!!! That is very exciting! And, the best part about finding out half way through is you don’t have to wait as long to meet your little one. 😉
Congratulations! I honestly figured that I was probably about 16-18 weeks at the appointment (finding out at 14-16 weeks) but whoa…it sure is shocking! I just keep hearing more and more stories like that…gals not knowing!
xo – kb
Aww congratulations Rosalind! That is so exciting!
xo – kb
I honestly don’t think they are jealous. Everybody is going through something but I don’t know that anyone can blanket statement the people that make snarky comments. I do honestly think that they have a lot of time on their hands and if they put that time and energy toward something positive, that they could solve major world problems…that I would love to see happen! But thanks for you encouragement…you are very sweet Karin.
xo – kb
We honestly haven’t decided!
xo – kb
It is easy! I need to do a whole post about the ‘extras’ I use now for photography stuff…it’s really fun to use these useful little gadgets!
xo – kb
Oh I hear ya girl….may we both be getting more sleep soon!
xo – kb
Thank you for sharing. This world needs more good news like this! I’ll be praying for you.
Thank you Dani. My heart goes out to you.
xo – kb
No but I didn’t ask. Once they felt my stomach and said possibly over 20 weeks, there was a different feeling to the appointment…more clinical somehow. Apparently not having those early ultrasounds is a problem because they don’t induce without them….which usually I need Pitocin….so it was all about the growth and due date. Next week we go in for a big scan at Emory…we will try to decide before then if we will find out.
xo – kb
We don’t know…and we haven’t decided if we are finding out.
xo – kb
We don’t know if we are finding out or not…it all just is going at warp speed!
xo – kb
I don’t know if we are finding out…it just seems like a lot to think about so soon! I have a gut feeling though that it’s boy #4!
xo – kb
Due in June but we are going in for a big ultrasound next week to see if they need to adjust the actual date. Apparently it’s vital that they get it as close to accurate as possible since I don’t have a ‘last period date’ or an ultrasound before 20 weeks.
xo – kb
Oh darling…I feel ya. It’s scary and I can only tell you what I say to Will…of course it’s hard to be brave…but that’s what makes us grow! You definitely aren’t alone and you sound like a really good mama…this baby is blessed to have you and was chosen by God to be yours in this time. Congratulations and I’ll be praying for you too!
xo – kb
Happy Belated Birthday and congratulations on your new expected arrival! May God continue to bless you and your family and guide you as you prepare for this new miracle.
Congratulations! What a miracle , a beautiful baby to be born into such a loving family, we need to celebrate!!
I feel like one more congrats may just be passed over, but congrats anyway! Thank you for your honesty in this post; it really took you from the internet sort-of-celebrity feeling to the real-life-Katie feeling. You are such a strong person for being able to see all the negativity and not give up. You’re an amazing person and will be an amazing mommy yet again! <3
p.s. I am the one who just tagged your instagram on my farmhouse bed picture that my hubs is building.
(right before I saw this post!)
Congratulations to you and your family! I too am a mom of four- three busy boys and my last a little girl. It it crazy, and chaotic at times- and we wouldn’t have it any other way. 🙂
so, so happy for you! What a wonderful birthday present!
I think this is my first comment here. Congratulations all the way from India!
Congratulations Bowers! So happy for you guys! I was just the other day thinking “hmm funny she hasn’t mentioned anything about trying for their little girl Bower yet! it must be coming soon” and then as soon as I read “I got the best birthday…..” I knew right away!
So happy to be “pregnant with you” again! In my head we’re now bff’s – I was pregnant with my daughter when you got pregnant with Weston (and cried like a baby when you announced it! ..as with your other announcements) and now here we are again! I’m 20 weeks today 🙂
Good luck with the rest of your pregnancy! Hopefully this half is as smooth sailing as the last half! 🙂
Happy Birthday and Congratulations!!! My b’day is the 7th (I’m in Australia and I’m celebrating now)!! CAn’t wait to meet your newest bundle!! xx
Congratulations! Since you’re 22 weeks along, do you know if it’s a boy or a girl yet, or are you waiting until the birth to find out? (You don’t have to tell us if it’s a boy or a girl if you don’t want to. I was just curious if YOU know.) 🙂
Congratulations Katie! I’m so happy for you all, you’re a wonderful mummy and I love reading about all of your adventures. All the best for the rest of the pregnancy xx
Congratulations! What a gift! Your personal choices/surprises are no one’s business to judge, but if I baked babies as cute as LJ, I woubaking them more often.
Sorry- would be purposefully baking them. Babies are a blessing, so congrats! Sure it will be a challenge, but somehow, you will find a way to rock this out of the park because you are a wonderful mama who deeply loves and cares for each precious one. Your heart will know the right way to manage. All the best to you and yours!
Hi Katie,
I’m one of those ladies trying and struggling to have a family. Knowing what you went through and seeing you blessed by these beautiful boys and the newest addition gives me hope that ill be lucky enough to experience it…
I know you are really sensitive to those of us who are experiencing the heartache and that makes me even happier for you!
Congratulations Bowers and please let us know the gender when you’re ready. You do boys amazingly I’d love to see if its a baby girl
Whoops…..well as long as you are happy and your husband is too that’s all that matters. As far as not knowing that you were pregnant that is really awesome, I threw up for 4 months with all three of my kids and I was miserable so being that far along and not knowing is really great.
Congratulations……
Wow!! Congratulations!! Your post is sweet and honest and I can understand your misgivings about sharing this with the world. But it is really wonderful news. And a brilliant post title.
Congrats! My heart literally jumped when you said you’re having another baby! God must have granted you all the patience; not sure I could handle even a third!!
Congratulations! You look gorgeous! Babies are such wonderful blessings. ( An especially exciting gift for a lovely family.)
Congratulations! That is such exciting news and you are halfway there. I hope it’s your girl this time. Regardless a happy and healthy baby will be what I’m praying for. For all the haters forget them they are miserable people. Gods timing is always perfect! Sending lots of love!
Congratulations!! When I read that you found out you were pregnant in January I thought, “oh cool we’ll be due around the same time!” (I’m due in September) But 22 weeks?! Haha I’m so jealous! I’d love
to skip this first trimester nonsense!
Congrats Bowers! 1 more blessing to add to your family! Awesome news!
Hooray!!!! So excited for you!! Can’t wait to “meet” Bower #4!!!
I am so excited for you all! You just can’t hold that man back!! 😉
I am totally jealous that you can go that long and not know. I was having morning sickness at like 2 days pregnant with my second! I hope you knew before you did too much crazy lifting in the basement!!!
I am guessing another boy. No morning sickness is classic boy sign!
I hope you’ll do another update like you have for the others with due date and such. Maybe a gender reveal…..
This is my first time commenting in 5 years of reading your blog, but I wanted to say I think that’s my favorite post of yours. It made me teary eyed! I have four little ones also, and it’s exhausting a lot of the time but I know this phase will go by quickly and then I’ll miss having them little. You’ll do great and hopefully family will pitch in to help you some
Congratulations, Katie! EnJOY your joy, any baby born into your family is so lucky to be surrounded by so much love 🙂
(Our surprise baby #2 turned out to be twins, 14+ yrs ago!)
Katie I’m so happy for you.thanks for always sharing like a real friend. Selfishly I hope you’ll continue to do so with 4 babies. You enrich my life with your kindness, humor and sharing. How strange it must be to not only have/want to consider the feelings of your friends and family but also for 1000s of followers that feel your friendship through your blog. I’m sure it can be difficult but thank you so much.
CONGRATULATIONS!! As the mama of 4 sweet boys who all came along in less than 4 years time, I know the roller coaster of emotions you are feeling. I am blessed with a hubby who said that he ‘felt like he won the lottery’ when we were surprised with identical twins. God doesn’t give you more than you can handle but he sure has a great sense of humor sometimes! Blessings to you and your adorable family!!
Congrats! I think all the speculation about you being pregnant was over the top and your family deserves privacy on that. The comments I’ver heard would have been hurtful. I get that. However, claiming you did not know until now is very hard to believe. Better off to just say we didn’t want to announce anything yet.
Hi there Katie! I don’t believe I’ve ever commented before but I have been silently following along for years. Congrats on your next blessing!! Please don’t ever apologize for that. At the end of the day it’s your life and your family. As readers we are just here along for the ride. Maybe this time you’ll get that girl? Can you tell us pretty please with a cherry on top? Though I would almost feel sorry for her with three older brothers! Oh, and I love the basement progress going on right now. All that cleaning out and organizing is really inspiring for me to get my behind in gear. Thanks for continuing to be here and for keeping us readers on our toes.
Congrats Bower Family !! … And please do not let anyone’s negative comments get you down.. There are just some people who are truly jealous, and get joy from taking other people down with them… Enjoy life to the fullest, and let the negative go !! And Happy Birthday… Look forward to following this adventure !!
PS Can you do a post on how you do survive with three ? I currently have two and am pining to have another but not sure how I will handle it !!
Thanks… xo
yay yay yay, Katie and family!
Wow what a shock! I have three and don’t think I have the energy to plan another one but always pray for God to “sneak one in there” if a 4th is in His plans. This baby might have surprised you but he/she was God’s plan for your life all along. Congratulations!
I know, right!?
Happy Birthday! And, congratulations! It’ll be a wild ride , but you’re going to love it!
So many congratulations to you and your family!! I don’t think I’ve ever commented here before but I have been reading since long before you were pregnant with will (I swear I’m not a creeper, I only wish we were real life bffs)! I’m so sorry to hear that people are judgy and mean to you. That’s not cool. You seem like an awesome mom and I can’t wait to hear more about new bower baby!
Such awesome news, Katie!! Congratulations!! I was thinking how cute your shirt was in the cake pic and how trim and healthy you were looking. Then I was like “woah” and had to scroll back up to check out your belly! Haha! You’re rocking baby #4 like nobody’s business!! God’s timing is always perfect.
Congratulations all the way from Trinidad! The title of this blog post could not have been more perfect!!! Best wishes for another healthy and beautiful Bower baby! Pay no mind to potential detractors, its your life and your happiness, thank you for sharing.
Heartfelt congratulations. Focus on all the positive messages from people who are happy enough in their own lives to be happy for you. The others ought to have the good sense not to hit the send button, for tearing you down will likely not make them any happier.
Katie & Jeremy- I am so happy for you guys and your boys!! Congratulations!! Babies are definitely a blessing from God! And you guys are so deserving of happiness and a wonderful family! If more people could be like you and your family, the world would be a better place! I mean come on, you are The epitome of servants of God! I love reading your blog because not only are you great at DIY and creating a beautiful home for your family, you are also great people..taking in your friends and their little ones takes a lot! There are some people in this world that are so insensitive to others, and you are certainly not one of them! Keep doing what you are doing!!
Congratulations!!! ❤ What a wonderful blessing.
I just wanted to say how happy I am for you. That’s incredible news! And I applaud you for your courage in announcing the baby. I totally understand the fear. I am currently 14 weeks pregnant after we lost our little boy last spring. He lived for 3 hours and so many people prayed so hard for his healing that I’ve since found out that their faiths really suffered after he passed. I’ve been so terrified of telling people this time in case this baby isn’t healthy, either. And like you, so many people have shared great hurts over getting pregnant and losing babies that I don’t want to hurt them by being pregnant. But anyways, I understand and am so happy for you and your family.
OMG!!!!!!! Katie this is so amazing!!!! God bless you and your wonderful family!!!!! Wishing you all smooth pregnancy, easy delivery, and positive transaction from family of 5 to 6. XOXO
That’s awesome! So excited for you!! What a wonderful blessing!
Holy crap!! That is amazing that you are literally half way through your pregnancy!! Congrats.
Congrats girl! That is such a blessing!! To the fabulous FOUR! 🙂
XO
~ Jillian
http://www.hersplitends.com
Congratulations! I love your compassion for others and the honesty with which you blog. Thank you for allowing us to be a part of your family and personal moments. Enjoy the snuggles!
CONGRATULATIONS!!! A new baby is SO exciting!!! I love reading your blog and hearing about your adventures, so it will be exciting that there is a new addition to the mayhem!!!
I would also like to offer apologies for the crazies that are out there! (All I can say is that they need help!)
Keep blogging!!! You rock my world!
Congratulations! What a wonderful gift!!
Holy moly!! That’s great news!!! I’m so excited for you and your family. The world needs more Bower babies. 😉
I’ve followed your blog for years and can say I was honestly so excited to read this! Congrats Katie!! Such an awesome blessing for you and your family!
So happy for you!!! Can’t wait to see the gender reveal!
What a surprise! I’m so excited for you guys!! (and super jealous that you don’t have any morning sickness or other obvious symptoms, haha).
CONGRATS! Katie you are an AH-MAZING mother! Any child being born into your family is one lucky kid!!
CONGRATULATIONS!!! You are just such a sweetheart with all of your feelings about others. You are a vert blessed woman, congrats again!!
OMG Congrats! Are you hoping for a girl this time?
I’m so excited to hear about Bower Baby #4! I can’t wait to “meet” him/her!
I’m so hurt (for you) that you have to qualify your announcement by addressing the haters.
Of course I understand those women having a hard time getting pregnant will be hurt and it shows your big heart that you would be so concerned about them, but the ones with the snarky comments?
Ugh. I know the idea of blogging is to share with your readers, but my mom taught me if you have nothing good to say, say nothing at all. I just don’t get the need for anyone to make nasty, jealous or hurtful comments about someone else. Color me clueless.
And SO darn excited for the Bower Family!!!
Congratulations! I’m very happy for you all! You now have me wondering if we should keep going. We feel very blessed (and sometimes overwhelmed) with the two that we have. But there are many things that seem so great about a large family. Regardless, don’t let the naysayers and rude folks get to you. We all have our own journey and we just need to respect each other’s choices. Peace!
I am one of your frequent readers, but very infrequent commenters. I have to say that I am VERY excited for you! We have four (3 boys, 1 girl, that are all within 6 years) and our last was a TOTAL surprise while we were preventing too. The only reason I did a test was secondary to a car accident that I was in. Since I had some injury to my hips due to the seatbelt, my doctor suggested that I do a pregnancy test, just to make sure everything was okay. An follow-up ultrasound revealed a 10 week old nugget. I had a hard time explaining why I had NO CLUE I was pregnant since I’m a nurse. It took me two weeks to drag my jaw off the floor. I was lucky, like you, to have the most supportive husband who felt like we had been given the “best surprise ever”! Enjoy your four! It goes by sooo fast. (I just sent my oldest off to college this year). So buckle up and hang on for the ride of your life! Congratulations!!
Jeremy does…he has wanted a girl for a long time. I was sort of 50/50 when we had Weston but I am firmly planted in boy camp now. Considering my symptoms are the same as Will (none really! Ha!) I think I am gonna get another boy but we would be obviously happy no matter what!
xo kb
We don’t know yet if we are finding out but if we do, we will be sure to share the sex.
xo kb
That’s an awesome line right there!
xo kb
Congratulations Katie! You two have three of the cutest kids and I’m sure the next one will be no different. I’m so happy for you all and I love reading about all of your adventures.
My best friend is trying to get pregnant and I always tell her it will happen when she’s at least expecting it… and this kind of proofs it. So thank you for sharing your news with us.
All the best for the rest of the pregnancy!
btw: this post title is brilliant
We don’t know. Our doctor didn’t even look…so it’s not even in my chart (the girl who is in charge of the office reads the blog and she was ticked that she didn’t even know! Ha!)
xo kb
Congratulations!! When you wrote you found out mid-january, i was super excited, cause i found out mid-january too. Now i envy you…i have been plagued with all-day-sickness for two weeks. I hope this will be over soon 🙂
I am truly excited for your newest addition!!
Congratulations! That’s nuts that you were BF and on birth control and still got pregnant! Nuts in a kind of awesome, but probably terrifying, king of way, LOL. You seem like a great mom and it’ll be craaaaazy, but fabulous. I can’t wait to watch your journey! As for bad comments, accept the good and roll your eyes at the rest!!! Not sure if it makes you feel any better, but I know two other women who’ve been that far along and haven’t known!!
Happy Belated Birthday!
That’s amazing news! Congrats!!! I think it’s amazing! I do believe that God doesn’t give you more than you can handle. You’re a great mom and you’ll make having 4 look like a piece of cake! Congrats to you, Jeremy and the boys!
Hi Katie! I don’t believe I’ve ever commented before but I have been silently following along for years. Heartfelt congratulations from Germany! Such an awesome blessing for you and your family! Please keep blogging amazing Mama! Thank you for allowing me to be a part of your family and personal moments.
Elisabeth
And please tell your mother and father that they raised a sweatheart!!
Big congratulations! I understand the mixed feelings. It’s a joy but also an awesome responsibility, and you both work hard at being good parents. I’m glad you’ve reached a place where the happiness outweighs the fear (the fear never really goes away when we’re parents, does it?). Enjoy the next few months of pregnancy. I hope Jeremy gets his girl!
Happy birthday, Katie! And congratulation on your new baby! Girl, I just don’t know how you do it all. F*** all those bad mouthing trolls!
Congratulations! How wonderful! You are truly blessed!
Delightfully happy for you, Katie!!
We have *5* bio kids and three adopted. We don’t care what snarky people may think. This is our family! We provide quite well for them and ask for no help from the gov’t. No one can decide what’s best for our fam. And I’m pretty sure God would applaude how our family is turning out. They are model citizens and the ones who are married are raising *their* children in Christ.
Who can criticize THAT?!?
Blessings!
Pam~
Congratulations! I’m so happy for you!
It’s especially weird that you were obviously showing in earlier pictures but seem to magically have a flat tummy in a photo from 2 days ago. Maybe you’re having a Benjamin Buttons! Starts out big and then gets smaller as due date gets closer. 😉
That means boy. She has paid extra in prior pregnancies to find out as soon as possible, but this time she’s not sure if she wants to know? For sure sign of a fourth boy. Maybe you’ll get a girl when this next one is 4 months old. 🙂
I am so happy for you and your family. What a blessing to be adding another sweet baby to your precious family! I really enjoy reading your blog and hearing about your family! I also get to learn the how-to’s for all the projects I want to complete. I’ll be praying for you in the next months as you prepare for the upcoming birth! Congratulations on such joyful news!
In this post you discussed the definition of infertility and put yourself firmly in the category of “secondary infertility”. I’m pretty sure this is what Sheila is referring to…so the words were in your mouth (blog)…
https://www.bowerpowerblog.com/2013/12/baby-3-faq/
So so exciting! What a wonderful surprise. I have a little girl about a month younger than LJ and would love to start trying for another baby but love our nursing relationship; I’m afraid I’d dry up. Are you still nursing? How’s it been?
Wow oh wow! I have followed you since Will was born and I don’t normally comment but often feel I can relate to you and all your projects. I just wanted to say I will be praying for you!!! It can be done, my Mom survived it (she had 6 in 7 years and then 13 years later me and my sister) I LOVE being part of a big family and while I have three and am somewhat TERRIFIED of having another especially right now (I am not pregnant and don’t plan to get that way 🙂 ) my Mom always said she would rather have another than lose one. God gives us these precious children to raise up for His glory and struggle as it is, sometimes minute by minute haha it IS possible. You GOT this Katie! You have a beautiful family. It is sad that you even have to worry about people saying rude things…
Congrats! What a blessing, as every baby is! God only gives you what He knows you can handle, you’ll find more in the tank than you knew you had! I am not usually one to comment on blogs but have been following yours for several years and feel that you deserve only healthy, supportive, loving comments… you have a gift and openly share it with others for FREE. Can’t wait to hear if it’s another handsome baby boy or some lucky little sister! Best wishes to you and the Bower boys!
I didn’t plan the last one either haha but I don’t know what I would do without my precious “puddin'” as her brothers call her.
Congratulations Katie, such great news! As a mum who wasn’t sick at all during my pregnancies and so didn’t know for quite some time that I was expecting, I know where you’re coming from! (although 22 weeks is impressive!)
Wow! Happy birthday and congratulations. God likes to show us quite often that he has a plan for our lives. What a sweet surprise. Enjoy every minute, Katie.
Congratulations! I am so happy for you and your family! I bet the boys are so excited.
I don’t blame u at all! I am in my late 30’s TTC #3 (the idea of a third never occurred to us til now!? I have a 10 and 7 year old- and don’t know where this last ditch effort for one more came from)- but I think it’s actually pretty awesome that you made it out of the 1st trimester worry-time and all the way to 20+ weeks before you found out. I think I’d actually love that senerio!! Skip the early pregnancy time and just get to the good stuff! Lol
I worry sick for the first 12 weeks and would love not having to~
I’m sure it was a shock to you, but sorta nice in a way!
Blessings for a great pregnancy! (BTW, I have all boys too 😉
Wow! That is amazing!! I am so happy for you and your family. I absolutely love reading your blog and all about your family so I was very excited to read that your family is growing!!
I didn’t read all of the comments, so someone might have already said something like this, but my first 3 kids (& I have 4), were 17 months apart and then 11 months apart. My son and daughter are the same age for 2 weeks! When I found out I was pregnant with my second child, it was a total fluke as well. We had just decided to start trying again and on a whim, I took a test I had lying around and bam! There was the plus sign. It’s a crazy ride and honestly, I don’t remember much of it! You will be great and your kids will be best buds! Congrats to your cute family!!
CONGRATULATIONS!!!! This is so exciting!!!! And you are looking great girl! I’m wishing you another successful pregnancy and healthy baby!!
Wowza! What an exciting, scary, amazing, overwhelming time for you! I know I would be hard core pendulum-ing between elation and panic. What a blessing but so much to take in all at once. Praying for you and Jeremy (and the boys!) as you settle into the idea of a baby just a few months away. And all the technical baby stuff. . . scans and inductions and etc. If you feel like writing about it, I’d love to hear how going through a pregnancy in this situation is different than your typical pregnancy. (Totally understand if you don’t. . . I honestly don’t know how you deal with all the snarky commenters. The internet is a big jerk sometimes.) Anywho, so excited for you guys and looking forward to the privilege of being able to follow your journey on the interwebs!
Congratulations! Thanks for sharing. As someone who has been trying to get pregnant for sometime, I ‘m sorry that you felt some would be upset with you. Everyone deserves to celebrate these moments.
First time commenter and just want to pass on my congratulations and best wishes! I am really happy and excited for you. I truly wish you the best with your 4th child. Please don’t let the internet get you down. There will always be those who can’t find the joy in someone else’s happiness. I am actually considering taking a pregnancy test even though I am 99% sure I am not pregnant because I had a weird weight gain this month and I’m completely at a loss of where it came from. So no judgement here!
Congratulations! That is quite something!
Wow, congratulations! I’m sure you were all in happy shock! When is your due date?
The biggest congratulations to you and Jeremy! Fabulous news!
What age gap will you have between LJ and the new little one?
Don’t worry about the haters- they live to hate and will find anything and everything to hate
I don’t think I’ve ever commented on your blog, but I couldn’t keep quiet on this one!!
CONGRATULATIONS, BOWERS!!! This is the best news! I am so happy for you – and can only imagine the crazy/overwhelming feeling of finding out how far along you are (and HOW can you look so fabulous and tiny at 22 weeks, girl???) My #4 babe was a big surprise, as well – I had my daily “I’m overwhelmed!!” cry session in the shower every morning for about a month after I found out – but now he is 5 and I can’t imagine life without him.
GOD BLESS YOU – praying for another healthy pregnancy!
Congratulations Katie! Soooooo happy for you guys!
Congratulations! If anyone one can do it you can Katie. I know this and I don’t even know you! My first reaction would be crying tears of fear too- whew!
Hi Katie, long time lurker, first time posting. I “met” you through Sherry at YHL and have been following Bower Power since before Weston was born. And I have to admit something to you….I stare at your stomach in nearly every photo. Stalker!!
Congrats! Babies are amazing. And can I just say a big “thank you” for putting the whole never comment on a woman’s (or anyone’s) belly sentiment out there?! I had my baby 7 weeks ago, and got the dreaded “so when are you due” today.. Ugh…just don’t. Just never comment.
You look amazing!
Congrats Katie! I’m so happy for you!
https://www.bowerpowerblog.com/2013/12/baby-3-faq/
“I immersed myself in a world of secondary infertility.”
Didn’t you write that?
Congratulations!!! Very excited and happy for you!
Awww!!! Good for you! I was through my first trimester before finding out – on 9/11 no less – that I
was pregnant with my FIRST. So don’t feel foolish at all. It really does happen. AND I’ve stopped with 3 littles, but I always heard that 4 is easier than 3 so that is what I wish for you. So happy for you, Bower family!
Congrats girl! How wonderful!! Enjoy and savor this great moment.
As for the haters, just Shake it Off ala Taylor Swift style. 🙂
Better off not to comment on someone else’s blog than to call them untruthful.
Congratulations!!!! That is amazing news!!!
Awesome! Congratulations!!!
Congratulations! I’ve always been a firm believer that you’re only given what you can handle, and I think you two will be FABULOUS parents to 4 little ones! If you have a girl, I can only imagine how protective her big brothers will be!
Congrats! I am 21 weeks today with our second bebe : ) So excited for you and your family!! You look aaaamazing!!
I cannot wait to see the huge beautiful eyes on baby #4. You shocked me…there’s no way you look 22 weeks pregnant! 🙂 What an absolute thrill for you and Jeremy. Heartfelt congratulations from Ottawa, Canada. Hugs to you all.
Katie- I never write comments… like ever. But I am so happy for you and your little family. You are super mom, and if anyone can handle four kiddos its you. God’s plan is at work in your lives. When do you find out if baby Bower is a boy or a girl?
OMG! Congratulations!! That’s awesome news 🙂 I’m hoping you get a girl 😉 My hubby is the youngest of 4 boys, so having 4 boys is like my biggest fear. lol.
Also, screw those people with the negative comments. They’re just jealous of you 😉
And a happy belated birthday!!
Katie, all babies are wonderful news! Don’t for a minute let anyone rain on your parade. Congrats congrats congrats. Can’t wait to see the amazingness (yep I just created a word for you) baby bower #4 brings to your family!
I am truly, honestly, and completely happy for you! I know I can’t speak to what others put you through, but don’t let the haters and trolls dull your shine. You have plenty of fans who have your back and support you every step of the way. Congratulations, Bowers! I can’t wait to come along for the ride!
I’m also hoping its a girl….. I know you love your boys, but a little girl would be a new adventure! 🙂
OMG! So excited for you but I would have had a small heart attack too. Love your honesty and can’t wait to watch your family grow….you’ve actually given me the guts for number 3:)
Congratulations! Some time God’s biggest blessing are a complete surprise!
Nothing but love and joy and excitement coming your way.
Katie – how exciting! and I would say this pregnancy will fly by! :0) I Think it’s awesome and how many babies you have is between you, Jeremy and God. I honestly hoped you would have more cause your fam is so so sweet! Cant wait to find out what the gender is. And if it is another boy – I think another boy for the Bowers would be fine – you are great boy parents. and a girl would add variety!
So funny. I married an older guy who has 2 kids (and a vasectomy) so pregnancy is not even on my radar, but it’s so fun to watch other women my age in this season of life. I called my sister in law (who just had a baby) and she was explaining how you can be so far along and not know…God has a sense of humor 🙂
I’m a blog lurker, not a commenter, but I want to say CONGRATS! As a woman who struggled to get pregnant, found out we couldn’t get pregnant and have since adopted two kiddos I can HONESTLY SAY I am super excited when I hear someone gets pregnant so easily and is so excited. I feel a kind of relief for anyone who doesn’t have to struggle to have the children they want so much.
Congrats, congrats, congrats! Can’t wait to see some more cute baby pics on the blog. And hoping you might get the pink version this time – a girl can almost never go wrong with big brothers looking out for her!
Wahoooo! Congratulations!! I think it’s totally okay to be surprised and shocked- especially as you had not been trying. I hope you hold your head high as you lead your beautiful family and I’m glad you are both so happy about it now. If you don’t follow the ever-funny Camp Patton, you might find some smiles in Grace- she’s got four (age 4 and under) and is pregnant with number 5. A classy lady who keeps it real- real funny and real honest. So you’re basically joining the ranks of super heroes! I’ve only got one so far, but hopefully we will expand. 🙂
Happy Birthday Katie and congratulations on Baby Bower #4!!!!! I read your blog religiously (even if I rarely comment) and I love all your posts, but this one is very special indeed!! What wonderful news this is for you all – so happy to hear it 😀 <3
KATIE!!!! I have been reading your blog for years & definitely remember your heartache trying for baby #2! God is so amazing. Children are a BLESSING & don’t let satan convince you otherwise. God’s ways and timing are perfect!! I’m so happy for you. I’m 28 weeks pregnant with baby #3 in 3 years… Following 4.5 years of infertility and a doctor telling us we would never conceive without IVF w/ICSI. Praise the Lord, Hallelujah!
Hi Katie-and congratulations. Our daughter and their fiancée found out recently that they are unexpectedly expecting baby #2-they found out at 26 weeks with the same scenario as yours! Baby kicked so hard that they realised that the health problems the doctors had said was PCOS may be something else! They were also taking preventative measures as they are currently living with us ( with their 2.5 year old) whilst saving for a house. Loving thoughts for you all. 🙂
Big news! Congrats! You’ll get to sleep well next decade:-)
I’ll bet Will is especially excited. You have such a sweet family, can’t wait to see who this newest one will be.
this post made me smile so much! Happy Birthday and Congrats!! After years of losses we are expecting our first boy in March and pray to have another close behind him!! It is hard-so many people are hurting but even through the hurt, we know God has a plan for us!
Congrats again!
Ohmygosh I smiled so wide at this whole post! Congratulations to you, Katie!! And of course to Jeremy, and Will, Weston, and LJ!! May this pregnancy be easy and fun!
First off, many congratulations and much love to you Katie! We’re expecting in early June too. It’s our second, our first was born the same time as Weston. I haven’t met you, but in so many ways I feel like I have. I’m thrilled that “we’ll” be welcoming another little one together again lol! You are an amazing momma, I draw strength and inspiration from you and your blog regularly. I’ll take the liberty to offer some advice… in a world full of craziness, sometimes you’ve got to just seek out and selfishly soak in the LOVE. Don’t ever let someone else’s hang ups diminish your happiness or blessings Katie. I am so excited for you and your boys. I wish you another precious healthy bundle, I hope that you’re feeling well and enjoying the miracle of another new life. <3
Congratulations! So happy for you guys! Sending prayers and well wishes for smooth sailing with baby Bower #4!
You’re going from three to four on your big 3-4! Fitting! You’ll never forget that:) What a wonderful blessing. We also have four….all very nearly grown. Savor the moments. I found three to be tough because my husband and I were outnumbered for the first time! It took adjustments and creativity. Four, I’m happy to tell you, was a breeeeeze. Make memories and tuck them away, and eat dinner together often (no TV or phones!) One great way to stay connected. To this day my kids still say dinner time was their favorite time of day.
Soooooo exciting!!! Congrats!!
Oh, Katie, CONGRATULATIONS! You have now been pregnant twice during the time that we’ve been trying. We’ve had 3 miscarriages in the last year. Nice people aren’t going to judge you or throw stones. I may be a little envious but I am still so happy for all couples who find out they are adding a little one to the family. It gives the rest of us incentive to keep trying. You have a beautiful family & I can’t wait to see the beautiful photos you take off the new little Bower.
Big Congratulations Bower family! How exciting!
If you read the entire paragraph you will read that I didn’t think of myself as infertile…but yes, i did go into that world…talking to my doctor, reading forums and message boards, basically doing everything I could to get more info…that is what that statement means. I know if you are analyzing this you are probably not a “friendly” so you can relay this message to all the others…honestly I’m not wanting to keep defending myself. Take it or leave it.
xo kb
Congrats Bowers! You will figure it out and make things work because you and Jeremy are smart, loving, and hard working. Hope the rest of your pregnancy goes smoothly! Happy birthday!!
How wonderful! At one time, I had four kids five years of age and under (but then, two were twins!). It was crazy, fun, but I would do it all again in a heartbeat! Now all four are in their twenties, and very independent – also very close. Which is what I wish for any family with a ‘quad’ of kids. Way to go!
Say whaaat?? 22 weeks already? Crazy!
Congratulations, Bowers!! So exciting! : )
Ah! Don’t do it! We found out w/our son (our first) and iddn’t with our second (a girl) and it was the best surprise of my LIFE hearing it at her birth. I had almost forgotten we didn’t know, just being so wrapped up in delivery. When they announced a girl I was sobbing my eyes out, shaking uncontrollably. Don’t find out. Best, most built-up surprise ever. And you KNOW with either outcome you’ll be happy. So just do it. 🙂 🙂 🙂
Congrats Katie B.! Excited for you and your family… hoping you get a girl this time although I know you would love to have another boy as well! Time for a new baby wardrobe though 🙂
I’ve never paid extra for knowing! And I don’t know anybody that is ready to know the minute they confirm pregnancy…that just seems crazy fast! All in good time!
xo kb
Oh no! Hope it passes quickly!
And congratulations!!!!
xo kb
It’s weird but I have always had a little tummy that I suck in when I know a picture is being taken. I can also make myself look very pregnant at any time (baby or not!)
I call it my party trick 🙂
xo kb
Congrats to you guys! What a wonderful surprise that is, so very happy for you! Sending you well wishes & restful thoughts momma! <3
It will probably be right around 15 mths.
xo kb
Yup. Read the rest of the paragraph.
xo kb
Middle of June. Next week I should have a more definite date after the big ultrasound.
xo kb
You are really sweet Cynthia…I’m sorry to hear about your loss. I imagine that is just heartbreaking.
xo kb
Whaaaaaaa!?!?! That’s…AMAZING! Holy cow!!!! Congrats to you and your family! I’m so happy for you and I cried…I did. Cause a baby and the surprise and being happy…it’s so worth crying happy tears:) No better people to be blessed with more and more kiddos!:) xoxo
Congrats, thanks, and prayers.
Congrats on your surprise #4!
Thanks for:
Your honesty.
Your vulnerability.
Your willingness to share you many gifts. (your family, your faith, your talents, your home, your ideas, your successes, your failures, your heart)
Prayers for:
Strength.
Reliance on the Lord for wisdom as you raise 4 littles.
Wisdom to know what the “majors” are to focus on.
I never comment on blogs, but I had to pipe in and wish you congratulations! I am one of nine children and love being a part of a big family. But as a mother of 3 littles (and about to turn 34 myself) I totally get how scary/hard/exciting this must feel. You can do it, mama! Remember to cut yourself a lot of slack — and if you find yourself overwhelmed and crying in the closet on occasion, know you are not the first! Good luck and much love.
Katie,
Congratulations! I’ve been a longtime reader, but this is my first comment. Thank you for providing such good content and being brave enough to share your life. Your a wonderful mother – don’t ever found that!
Congratulations! With a “boyfriend” as cute as yours its no wonder these babies keep happening. Lol! Are you going to find out the gender? You may already know since you are so far along. Cant wait to hear more details. babies
very exciting! I can understand all your feelings. Don’t let anyone devalue your thoughts and experience. Give those negative Nancy’s no mind
What an adventure! Wow!!! You’ve got this;)
How wonderful!! Savor every moment!!
Wowowowow, Katie! What amazing news….so happy for the Bower fam! Your post title was quite clever, too. 🙂 Happy Birthday and congratulations!!
Congrats! That’s so exciting and awesome you’re already at 22 weeks! So do you know the gender?
I just want to congratulate you and your growing family and wish you all the best.
I love that you wrote a bit about your fear on how things can be received. I always felt weird for having that fear about any pregnancy reveal (I’m on #2 right now), because you can never know how people will react, but you put it in AWESOME perspective about how this is about LOVE and about JOY and about God’s plan, and those things shouldn’t even be contested or worried away.
You make beautiful babies–thanks for letting us ride this ride with you in the blogging world!
Cynthia,
Sorry for your loss; sending prayers your way!
Congratulations to you and Jeremy! This was such an awesome post; so happy for you!
What amazing news! Congratulations!!!!! 22 weeks? I only wish I could skip the morning sickness and start the 9 month journey half way in! I love that you felt the kicking first. Best of luck to you and your family, God Bless you all! Such happy, happy news!!!
Lovely
Two things – the other day I was watching hulu and all of a sudden there you were, in a Home Depot commercial!! I yelled “the Bowers are on TV” at my husband who, of course, got the reference. 🙂
The second thing is that I’ve been thinking and praying for you since I read this post a few days ago. I hope you don’t feel afraid and that any inadequacies that you may feel will go away. You got this!
Congratulations! I am so happy and excited for you and your family. How crazy to find out so far along! Thank you so much for taking the time to share your life and ideas with us.
Congrats Katie! Your home will be filled with even more love. So do you have a tile project coming up?
Congratulations!
That’s awesome! That might explain a little bit why the cruise was so rough on you! Enjoy these years…we will never have them again. 🙂
Haha actually I was just thinking about how I want to tile the floor in our first floor bathroom!
xo kb
We don’t know yet and we haven’t made the decision to find out.
xo kb
We can find out at the next appointment but I don’t know if we will…we haven’t made the decision.
xo kb
We haven’t decided yet if we will found out earlier.
xo kb
Wow, congratulations, Katie!!!! I’m so happy for you!!
Congrats!!!!! So happy for you. I so admire your strength and courage to raise 4 little ones. You seriously amaze me. We will keep you in our prayers for a healthy baby and delivery!!!
GIRL. I haven’t posted a comment here in YEARS but I just had to.
Your post-baby#3 body looks identical to my post-baby#2 body, I’m still nursing my 11mo baby (we’ll likely wean totally this month), my periods haven’t come back yet (took 10mo with baby #1), and some days when I’m looking particularly bloated or feeling especially tired I think “holy cow, could i be preggo?” and run to take a test. I TOTALLY get how this happens. Haters gonna hate (seriously? Some people act like they’ve never seen a postpartum body before? Are you kiding me?). I say, sweet! Half the waiting is over and you look awesome! Soak it up girl. Here’s pulling for a baby girl. 🙂 Warmest congrats.
Ps: I have always liked your blog while avoiding internet dramaz, but the audacity of the haters is really hiting a nerve with me this time. Dear any gomi peeps reading this comment, I would give KB a thousand page clicks and comments just to spite you fools. There I said it. I’m sleep deprived and hormonal and ragey. If you want to go, bring it, crazies. My email address [email protected]. Pick a fight with me. You will loose. The end.
Congratulations!! from a faithful reader and first time commenter. I hope the love you get on this post far outweighs the ones you have to delete. Well actually, I hope you don’t have to delete a single one. If anyone can do this, you can. If the only tile project you take on is keeping the ones you have clean you are still a super mom. Those little ones of yours are so lucky. Sending you lots of love and prayers.
I should add that I have two brothers that were surprises, 16 and 18 years younger than me, born to 50 year old parents who were 3 years from having a child-free home. My mom cried the not so happy tears while she was telling me and again when she learned she wasn’t going to be giving me a sister to go with my 3 brothers. I remember the insensitive questions to my mom asking if they were her grand-babies (NO). Questions to me asking if this was a second marriage for my mom (NO). There is so much insensitivity in the world.
My husband was a surprise baby born less than a year after his older brother. A “one hit wonder” after a valentines day date. The In-Laws proudly tell this story 26 years later but I’m sure there was panic when those test results came back. In 26 years their future spouse will proudly announce that he/she made their entrance in such a dramatic fashion. 🙂
These boys/men are my favorite people and I can’t imagine a world without them. Your surprise baby will be just as important and loved.
Congrats, Katie! Beautiful. 🙂
um. YAY! and happy birthday! I adore you and your precious family. I hate that you have to deal with so much negativity. You are so kind to acknowledge and concern yourself with other people’s struggles in this area, and I appreciate how sensitive you are to that. I am so excited for you and for baby Bower #4, but can I be honest and say the most satisfying part of this post for me is the fact that you turned the 3-4 and you guys are going from 3 to 4 kids. I just love perfect little coincidences like that. haha. keep on doing your thing, KB. You ROCK!
He is weaning for sure. It started about a month ago when he went from eight times a day to now being thisclose to done. I think my milk always changes taste though when I am pregnant so that probably plays a part 🙁
xo – kb
I definitely have that on my list!
xo – kb
I knew it!!!!! I had a feeling you were expecting!!! So excited for you and your family!!!
LOVE!!!! A big congrats all around!!!! Can’t wait to “meet” the newest Bower.
I am new to your blog (just found it then) and I am excited to have a new blog to read and enjoy, I was sad to read that you had snarky comments, and I honestly hope you don’t have to deal with that again. I am starting up a blog of my own and hope to have more kids in the future (I have twin toddlers at the moment, so not exactly in a hurry!) however, seeing how amazing your blog is, how honest you are and how beautiful your kids are – makes me still inspired to blog. I am super excited about this baby #4 for you and your family !!! Looking forward to updates, and future readings. Much love xx
Wow! I am only 14 week and my tummy is double yours!! Congratulations!! You are my hero doing diy project with 3 babys so if some one has energy for a 4th is you!! Wish you all the best 🙂
Congrats and all the best!
I knew it!!! I had a feeling you were pregnant ever since your cruise recap. Congratulations and best of luck!
Your post couldn’t have come at a better time for me, since I’ve been confused, crying, a mess… for two weeks now, ever since we found out we were expecting our third. It was a total surprise. There are ever-present money worries, worries about how the older two will handle it (the oldest starts school this year), worries if my husband and I will drift apart… We still haven’t told anyone. I’m constantly sick and feel like crap, which also adds to the negative feelings. I’m also sure God has a plan for us, but it’s not easy to accept it. Having said all that, your post has been a real inspiration and “sign” – that if someone else is also in this boat, and is making it work and accepting it, that I can too. So, thanks!
Congratulations, Katie! My first two boys are 13 months apart and I’m 15 weeks pregnant with our third (putting the middle child and this baby 23 months apart). I, too, have extreme fear over having enough energy to handle this many babies so close together. So, you are not alone! But what a huge blessing! May you have a safe and healthy pregnancy!
Congratulations 🙂 My daughter was a surprise and though I too was in shock/scared/sad at first, I had no idea how much I wanted her until I knew about her-then I wanted nothing more…if that makes sense.
Girl!! I know the feeling!! I had 6 kids in 7 years and actually all before I was 30!! The last 2 we were trying to prevent, and I even had my tubes tied after #5 and STILL got pregnant again!! God wanted our family to be what it is now 😉 I was crazy scared and so very very tired. I had to deal with comments from everyone and their brother, and I don’t run a successful blog!! I can’t imagine 😉 You will find the energy. You will survive. You can do this. It will be hard and frustrating and overwhelming. But it will be good 😉 You are blessed!
Many, many congratulations!!!
Lori ( a fellow photographer)
Happy birthday & congratulations!!!
I wish you could use a troll filter and never have to see the negative comments, but you’re strong and you have a lot of people who love you.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY KATIE!!! I AM APPALLED AT HOW PEOPLE ACT!! MISERY LOVES COMPANY. ANYONE WHO CAN’T BE ANYTHING BUT TOTALLY HAPPY FOR YOU AND YOUR ADORABLE FAMILY ARE JUST SAD LONELY INDIVIDUALS!!
YOU ARE AN AMAZING MAMA! AND YOU HAVE AN AMAZING HUSBAND!! AND 3 AMAZINGLY ADORABLE LITTLE BOYS!! CONGRATULATIONS ON #4!! AND MAY GOD BLESS YOU WITH SOME PINK IN YOUR LIFE…HEHEHE!! XOXO
I’ve been a long time follower, (back when it was just Will!) this may be my first comment!
Anyway! I’m so happy for you and your family! Congratulations! Unfortunately there are bitter people in this world but know that there are far more nice people that are genuinely happy for you! Cannot wait to read about Baby Bower #4!!! Wishing you all the best.
To go from 3 to 4 in year 34? I think it’s a good omen. I am so excited for you! Congrats!!!!!!
P.S. Haters gonna hate hate hate hate (and so on and so forth) shake it off! 🙂
Katie!!!! You are so precious and live life with such beauty and hilarity. So happy for your sweet little growing in your belly!! I have four littles too – the grace He faithfully gives is so SO dear. Congratulations to you!!!!!! xoxox
Congratulations Katie! You are such an inspiration to so many people! I can’t even imagine how hard it is to deal with all of the negativity out there – I know I wouldn’t be able to do it. I’m always impressed with how much you get done, how giving you are to your family/friends, and most importantly how you put God first.
WOOO!! Congratulations! That is so exciting and I bet the boys can’t wait either.
Oh — and happy birthday of course! 🙂 🙂
Congratulations Katie!!!! What a wonderful birthday surprise!! Sending prayers and well wishes your way as your beautiful family prepares to welcome a new Bower baby!! I think anyone that reads your blog can tell what a great mom you are and while I can only imagine that having 4 littles running around (I only have one) would be a bit scary, I know you can do it!! Congratulations and Happy Birthday!!!
Congrats Katie! Do you read dooce.com? She just wrote a post last week about feeling nervous sharing her struggles as a full-time single parent because she worried a single mom who doesn’t have the flexibility she does would read and feel inadequate. In the post she wrote, “It looks something like this… You shouldn’t feel bad for a broken bone because my mom has cancer.” (or something like that). We all fear revealing our true insecurities/fears/pains/etc… for fear that our deepest feelings will be dismissed. Thank you for choosing to share yours. Your family and the decisions you make to expand/discuss/share are yours and Jeremy’s. We are here because we love what you do. Thank you for sharing your family with us.
How flippin funny is that?!? I can just imagine the laughter. Trying so hard for so long and then BOOM! Surprise! And almost half way done, it’s just a God thing! So happy for you!!!
Wow! Totally shocked, but INCREDIBLY EXCITED for you guys!!! Seriously, as cute as your babies are, I hope you have a dozen more!!! And any baby would be so blessed to be in your family! Now you are motivating me. I only have two littles (18 months apart), but I see all that you get accomplished with 3 littles + 1 on the way and I feel like I can’t complain about being tired compared to you. Thanks for sharing with us!! And since you are already so far along, do you know the gender? Or do you want it to be a surprise?
Katie, congrats! I smiled reading this post, I cannot imagine being in those shoes! I’m honestly rethinking our own “methods” after reading this, lol. Anyway, I’m so excited for you. I can’t believe you were halfway to being a feature on the TLC show “I didn’t know I was pregnant!” 🙂 You’re a great mama and I for one can’t wait to see how Bower #4 blesses your little family.
Congrats! I am also a “blog stalker” not a commenter, but I think it’s great… and sure that number four will be loved 🙂
Two things. 1. Congrats! Four kids close together can be scary, but your kids are going to be so happy. I am one of 6 (but it’s complicated) and I can tell you from experience that having built in best friends is the best. 2. Your bod looks great. (If that’s not too weird) Never in a million years would I have thought you were expecting so F those haters.
Wow Katie that’s great! That must be an adjustment to find out you’re so far along but what a short and compact journey this baby will be. So much love all at once!
I am also a faithful reader of your blog but am not a commenter. Just want to say how happy I am for your family, take it from a momma of 4 under 3.5 (twins will be 4 next week, a just turned 2 year old and a 7 month old)… life is crazy with 4 but so much fun! I love reading your blog, I feel that if we were in the same state we would be best friends! So much in common! Have fun with the boys and your pregnancy! Congrats!
Congratulations Katie! What a lucky little baby coming to your family. Take it day by day and you will survive this blessing! : )
First and foremost, congratulations! You & I have 3 boys almost the exact same ages. I understand your fear, excitement, and joy. My third (even though we wanted 3 babies) was a surprise so I totally know what you are feeling. Sometimes I think about a fourth, but then I am so tired that I don’t think I could keep up (I have 3 years on you too). I’m going to watch you & see if I can hack it. Keep posting, you have a beautiful family & ignore the mean comments. Internet trolls have nothing better to do. Sending you good vibes.
congrats!! so excited for you guys! <3
People can be so mean and I feel the internet allows people to say things they would never say face to face … Don’t let them get to you and spoil this utterly amazing news! Huge congratulations to you all.
X
Congratulations Bower Family! Babies are just the greatest!
CONGRATS!!!
….. and now I want to go pee on a stick. You’re making me nervous! STAHHHPP
WOW! I just understood the double-meaning title of your post – very clever 😉
A big congrats to you all! Wishing you a wonderful second half of your pregnancy!
Yay! Congratulations!!
You should be able to find out the gender already, right?! Wow!
That’s very classy, Beth. Many ladies don’t have that same perspective. I bet you bring happiness to so many people around you!
Congratulations Bower family!
I have always LOVED your blog. I love how real you are and honest. Boo to those naysayers. We had both our children really close in age and people were so negative about it. I don’t know why as we were the ones who had to deal with the youngins 😉 people just should be happy for you!! Can’t wait to watch your family grow! Congratulations!!
I’ve been reading your blog for a long time–I found you through YHL years ago. I’ve entered some of the contests, but I’ve never commented before.
First off, congratulations to your & your family! What a blessing!
One of the reasons I like to read your blog is that you are unapologetically yourself.
In a world where I have seen and experienced how artificial some people can be, it is a wonderful thing to find people who are real and good and humble.
I only surround myself with people like that in my life–my personal life & my internet-blog reading life.
Keep doing your thing, your way.
This would make 3 of Katie’s pregnancies while we’ve been trying (way before Weston), but I’m thrilled to say that we are expecting our little one in about 7 weeks!!!!
Wow indeed! Great news! Congrats!
God IS in control… no doubt about it. Just keep trusting and believing. He never gives you/us more than we can handle. Happy Birthday and Congratulations! Prayers are going up for you and your family continually, and trust that God will continue to send the blessings and help for you and your family.
congratulations!!! What fabulous news! And Happy Birthday too 🙂
Congratulations!!! Wishing you lots of stamina and patience in the years ahead!
I beyond happy for you. Congratulations! Never forget… God’s timing is perfect and He will never give you more than you can handle. This is absolutely great news. 🙂
congrats! dont worry about the haters, just revel in the gift you’ve been given. hoping for a girl. imagine having 3 brothers to protect her….set for life already 😉
Are you going to find out the gender?????? I will be so excited if you have a girl – and mildly jealous that your sweet angel has three big brothers to protect her!
This is amazing news!!!! You are such an inspiration, I have no idea how you have 3 little ones, DIY, blog, and still have time to do other things! So happy for the Bowers! God bless
So exciting! As a mom of 7, I get how scary it can feel, but we love it! I also want to apologize because I asked if you were expecting. I certainly didn’t mean to hurt your feelings and am truly sorry it did. I didn’t think you looked pregnant or photoshopped in your Christmas photos, but I did think your last photo looked like it was set up to be one of those announcements that say something like the bower family + 1. I think you are absolutely beautiful.
CONGRATS!!!!!!!!!!! I wish my pregnancies were as uneventful as yours. I found out at 4 wks pregnant. I currently have 7 wks left for baby #3. I’m completely nervous. It’s been a while since I’ve had to deal w/ babies. My girls are 19 & 26. Can you say Built-in babysitters. HAHA!!!!!! Good luck!
WOW!! Congrats to you guys!! 🙂
When I saw this post I thought “Oh, is she having her fourth baby?” Then I read about your 34th birthday and then kept reading and just wow, wow! Congratulations! Must be strange to find out at 18 weeks you are pregnant. Wow! That’s amazing. Enjoy the rest of your pregnancy (that will feel even faster I guess!) 🙂
Congrats Katie! How exciting for your family! You look great, enjoy every moment!
I saw your first picture and thought: “She looks so beautiful, I even think she has that pregnancy glow!”
So glad to know I was right!
Congratulations!!!
Super excited for you! I was devistated/in shock when I found out I was pregnant. My husband had been laid off and was back in college, I had just started a new job in real estate. It was BAD. We moved in with my in-laws (i now don’t speak with them) in order to stay afloat. My husband was elated. I waited forever to tell outside our family and my bff. She is 1 now and everything is awesome. Life has a crazy plan for us!
Ps My good friend told me she was “done with 2” 2 weeks later she told me she was 9 weeks with 3! After 3 years, she still says #3 is her favorite 😉
Enjoy the ride and ignore the haters!
I never comment. Mostly because I don’t think you even have the time to go through 585 comments but I’ve GOT to comment on the meanies. I’m so sorry that you were scared to announce this pregnancy. I read your blog because I love you! And your house (which I am jealous of) and your babies. and CANNOT wait to see if this is your girl. Awwww seriously…three big brothers and a baby girl would be soooo sweet. Or if it’s another boy…oh boy! SO FUN, right!?!
I digress…people find it okay to hide behind a computer screen and say things they would NEVER say to someone’s face. It’s easy to say, “take it with a grain” but it still hurts. And therefore I am sorry you even have to read through that junk. Forgive them for their hate and move on…you are better than that.
XOXO chin up. Focus on BAAAAAAAAAAAAABY bake’n time! You’re an expert by now!
Congratulations! I am truly excited for you and your family on baby #4!!! My husband and I have been trying for baby #2 for almost two years now, with one miscarriage. Honestly, my heart skips a beat whenever I hear of someone I know announcing a pregnancy (or read their blog – been a reader for years now!) and I do feel some envy, but I also feel such joy for you all! It keeps me positive to see your joy and to know that joy can be found in everything we do! So thank you for sharing your exciting news – I can’t wait to hear more!! Much love to you all.
Congratulations Bower family!! That’s such wonderful, shocking, and purely awesome news! I cannot wait to hear all about adding a fourth adorable babe to the mix. Congrats again!
I actually just TODAY found out that we didn’t conceive this time around, and sure, I was a little disappointed but I look forward to us trying again!! 🙂 I just want to say that I am one of those women out there trying, but so what?! I couldn’t be happier for you and your sweet family. I’ve read your blog since your first house, and I am constantly awed by your lovely attitude and honesty. I point friends to your breast feeding experience with Will so they won’t feel alone, I tried Blue Apron (and love it) because of your post, heck you make me want to craft! I’m saying you’re helping your readers all the time! You deserve to be SO DANG HAPPY and not feel any shame what-so-ever. I can’t imagine how hard it must be to read the negative junk but during this wonderful time, just delete it, and smile in your soul knowing that SO many of us out here are grateful for your sweet blog and are thrilled that you’re going from 3 to 4 in your 34th year. How amazing! Sending you love and support- always.
Congrats, Bowers! May the power be with you 🙂 – You and Jeremy will definitely need it. 🙂
We are expecting baby #1 now, we are 1 week behind you. Let me tell you, your blog was a tremendous help for me, when struggling with fertility. When you announced LJ to us, then you wrote the sweetest thoughts about keeping thinking on those who struggle with conceiving. During the treatments when I was low I have re-read several times your post and it gave me power and somehow hope. Let me now thank you for this and give you a huge virtual bear hug for your nice words and of course your new baby.
Congratulations! That is such a good kind of surprise. I had 4 babies in 4.5 years. I never thought about it being difficult, it just was the way things were. I loved every minute of it and would do it again in a heartbeat . Now, that they are 13, 12, 10, and 8.5, they always have a friend and someone to play with. There is never a dull moment in our house. I always love to read about your family adventures, and prey for you often, now I will add the new little one to my prayers.
Congrats and Happy Birthday!
That is so exciting! I understand how you felt about this new little one. I found out I was pregnant with my third when my second was only 9 months old. I already had a baby. The comments from family were not kind. I was dealing with the shock and then having to defend what I was even unsure of. I got over the fear and worry when I stopped thinking of what things are supposed to be like and thought of the little person, life, love growing inside me. My boy’s are 17 months apart and they are so close. I adore their age difference and would not change one thing. I stopped at 3 for various reasons, but always imagine what our life would be like with 4. I am sure you and your family are thrilled! And hey, half the work is done for you already. That is a dream to coast through the first trimester, go you! Congrats!
Hi Katie, I rarely comment on blogs, just read and enjoy- but, I wanted to congratulate you and make sure you heard all the support and good things about your new baby as possible. I have three girls and two of my pregnancies went completely undetected until I was 13 and 10 weeks along. With one of them I had the flu and the blood work revealed my pregnancy, the other I had a gall bladder attack, and once again a blood test revealed I was pregnant. So, I understand that shock, surprise, craziness you felt when you found out! All that matters, as you know, is that nothing surprises God and His ways/plans are higher than our’s. I am excited for you and can’t wait to share your journey with your family!!!
Hi Katie, I have always stalked you but never commented.
Congratulations! I can’t wait to hear more about this new blessing. I love watching your beautiful family grow. Sending hugs and high fives from Omaha!
CONGRATULATIONS TO YOU!!! You’re the best.
We have a saying around our house: “You can’t fix crazy.” You can’t fix the people who are professionally offended, or looking for an outlet for all of their hate. You just can’t. So, you just keep being you. We’ll keep reading and cheering you on.
Love and all the best to your family.
Congratulations, Katie and the rest of the Bowers! As for how Little Baby Bower #4 addressed his presence – at least he/she did so soon enough that you didn’t become a story line for “I Didn’t Know I Was Pregnant” 🙂
That picture of LJ? Precious.
Happy Birthday and Congratulations!!! Such amazing news 🙂 another little Bower to swoon over 😉
Congratulations!!!!!! So excited for you and your family!
Congrats!! This is wonderful news!!
Congratulations! I’m a long time blog reader but rarely a commenter… although I have to say when I saw the title three-four I secretly hoped this was a pregnancy announcement for you! The part of your life that you share with your readers is amazing – you’re a super fun, amazing mother to those little boys and now to the little one growing inside. You’re a rockstar! Congrats again to you and Jeremy!
Awesome- congrats! Forget the trolls and people who have nothing better to do with their time than scrutinize bloggers. I love your openness and honesty on this blog. Keep making beautiful babies!
what what! Congratulations! I’m praying for a little girl! And don’t worry about being nervous about 4 little ones running around… You’ll be a natural before long! God bless!
You got quite the setup with those helpers!
xo kb
Thank you Jessica! You are really sweet to say that…it was just an insecurity of mine to dress up and still have a ‘mommy belly’! I know we all want to look our best 🙂
xo kb
LOVE!! Congrats Katie!!!
CONGRATS. I don’t know you guys apart from the blog, but Jeremy seems like an awesome man. Babies are a gift and I’m sure this one will strong and healthy. Our bodies are made for this. After three, you got this mama! 🙂 Any news on the gender? Is it going to stick to theme and be a surprise? Best of luck that your pregnancy continues to be easy.
It’s weird to have gut feelings about someone you’ve never met – but somehow I knew this announcement was coming! Haha 🙂 CONGRATULATIONS my (not-real-life-but-in-my-imagination) friend! And in the immortal words of the ever-wise TSwift – haters gonna hate, shake it off.
Congratulations!! Your emotions are so understandable – thank you for sharing with us! Blessings to you and yours!
congratulations!!!!! That is so amazing. I can’t imagine the surprise. I always thought it would be an awesome way to find out, hopefully that will mean it feels like a super short pregnancy. You will do an amazing job as a mom of 4 or even more. 🙂 so excited for you guys. Hoping you only feel love and support from everyone you “meet”. Cannot wait to see this next baby. Ps, not to add to your list of things to do, but I’m still dying for LJ’s birth story!
Congrats! That is so exciting! I am happy for you!
Children are a heritage from the Lord, offspring a reward from him. Like arrows in the hands of a warrior are children born in one’s youth. Blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them. They will not be put to shame when they contend with their opponents in court. (Psalm 127:3-5)
You’re such a strong and amazing woman. I know this is probably very hard for you (I would most certainly cry too). I’m expecting my second boy any day now. My first beautiful boy turned three last week and I’m already so scared I won’t have enough love or patience in my heart for both of them, but you have shown me that it’s most certainly possible. Congrats to you, Jeremy, and the boys. You guys are incredible.
Congratulations! Babies are so wonderful!
Congratulations!
As a fellow believer, I know God has a plan – and it is not always what we think. I am one of those women whose heart is breaking because I haven’t been able to get pregnant after a year of trying. But I have nothing but overflowing joy for you and your family!
God has a plan for us all, and not always what we think or expect – and my husband and I are examples of that. I got pregnant just after Thanksgiving but lost the baby to a tubal pregnancy weeks later. HOWEVER, we had felt God calling us to adoption and we started that journey last fall. Well two days after emergency surgery to save my life and “resolve” the ectopic pregnancy, we got a call about a newborn baby. Now, we have a beautiful 4-week old baby boy – not at all how we planned but EXACTLY as God had.
Hang in there, He has you all protected and in His hands. This is truly a blessing!!!
YAYAYAYAYAYAYYYY! Congrats to y’all!! I cannot even imagine everything you have felt/are feeling, but you are right in believing and trusting that our mighty, all knowing father has this all under control! Praise God for new life and for your family for believing in His perfect plan! The more bower babies the better 🙂 🙂 🙂
CONGRATS to you and your family Katie!! I have been a long time reader (from way up here in snowy, snowy Canada) and have watched your family grow. You and Jeremy are the most amazing and loving parents to your boys!! You got this. Sending you so much love and happiness. XOXO
Congrats!!!! Can’t wait to hear what ur having!!!
Congratulations Katie & Jeremy! I am so excited for you! I just wanted to make sure you know how many of your readers love you guys! And are genuinely so incredibly happy for you. It’s sad to realize that you have to be a little bit fearful of putting this news out there, because you know there will be some responses that aren’t the most encouraging. Just delete those replies and move on :). Congrats again! 🙂
Katie,
Congratulations on another blessing! I can relate to your story upon tears of learning your news. We had just celebrated our 2nd child’s 1st Birthday when I learned I was expecting our 3rd child. I cried for a brief moment not because I was sad or did not want another child but because I felt I’d lose time with my then toddler. My boys are 20 months apart and I could not imagine life differently (it helped that my daughter was 7 years older!). It was a challenge at times and let’s be honest still is and they are 7 & 9 now. I pray you enjoy the rest of your pregnancy and that all goes well!
Hey Katie,
I don’t often comment on blogs….you’re the only one I follow on a daily basis but wanted to send you huge Happy Birthday & Congratulations wishes from Ontario, Canada!!
While I know it’s hard to not take comments personally, just know that those who take a moment to say something mean just feel jealous that they don’t have what you do 🙂
I love your blog…..I love your posts and I hope you will keep it going as long as you can. You’re awesome!
Congratulations Bower Family!!!!
Katie,
Please don’t dwell on what other people think, or on offending someone with your joyous news. I’m a women who cannot conceive but could never see myself being angry with someone who can. My husband and I have chosen adoption as the means of growing our family, and it is just glorious as you physically carrying you children. My daughter, and all future children, grow in my heart and not my womb but they grow in my none the less. Celebrate your happy moments, for they are worth celebrating!
Congratulations Katie! What wonderful news! I love watching your family grow. I have 3 boys basically the same age as yours so I can see how you would be a little scared, but I know God has a great plan for you and your family and you are going to be great at mothering four! Thank you for being so transparent and allowing us to look into your life. Sorry for those who aren’t so kind but there are many more of us who wish you nothing but happiness!!!
Hi Katie! Congratulations on your growing family! I have been a reader of yours for a few years now and absolutely love your blog. I love how open and honest you are about all of your feelings. God bless you and your family! Take care of those beautiful babies 🙂
well, you sure have the room for another..in your house and in your hearts. everything will be ok…….you can do this Katie. Jeremy s a great Daddy and your family is beautiful.
Hey Katie–
Big fat wishes of congratulations and if anyone can ride the crazy train, it’s you. You have tons of love and support from all those around you and tons of love in your soul.
Happy family building!
Katie – thank you for being such an awesome mama! I love your openness to life and your courageous witness to others. You have been an inspiration to me, both as a DIYer and as a wife and mother. Keep doing what you’re doing!!
God bless you, Katie! Congratulations and happy birthday! I remember you saying “I want all the babies” and I laughed a little at the statement (having just had my second son I thought you were crazy)! Although now that I’m getting more sleep and my baby is 4 months old, I want more too! Babies are great and a blessing! You inspire me to be more patient and gracious and for that I’m grateful. Keep up the good work and fighting the good fight!
Congratulations, Bower family! (And happy birthday, Katie!)
I was so excited when I saw the title, and then was kind of bummed when I thought it was only a birthday post, but I’m so happy to see my first instinct was right! So excited for you.
Congrats, Katie and family! I am 23 weeks, so we are very close together in our pregnancies. That is a crazy story! Hope you are feeling well and baby is healthy! : )
congratulations!! you two make beautiful babies and are such loving parents; that little one is lucky! well, so are us readers, because we get to oogle more pictures of adorable babes! and regarding any negative judgement, as the wise t. swift once said, haters gonna hate, i’m just gonna shake it off, shake it off.
More high fives from Omaha! Congratulations!!!!
Are you going to find out boy or girl this time??
WOW! I was not expecting that! How exciting! Congratulations! I want 4 kids (currently pregnant with #3) but I HATE being pregnant so I am kind of jealous you’re more than halfway through your 4th haha! What I was really wondering, though, is the sex of your baby! Did you find out?! aaah!
And not that you asked, but have you considered a copper IUD? NOT because I think you should stop having kids – have as many as you want! You provide a loving home for your kids and they are lucky to have you! And so would many more children! But just if you wanted a break. You can have it while nursing and don’t have to think about it at all!
Good luck Bowers! Your kids are so lucky to be so close together! They are going to all be best buddies!
Congrats! That’s exciting news. Looking forward to finding out if your having another adorable boy or girl.
Congratulations!! You are terrific parents! Life wouldn’t be nearly as full if it all went according to our plans. 😉 Thank you for being so vulnerable to us! Praying for you and this new baby!
Congrats Katie! Don’t let the internet trolls steal your joy!
I am so happy for you and your precious family. I hope the second half of your pregnancy goes as smoothly as the first. Shame on anyone that is making rude comments and taking away from your celebration.
Yay! Want to know something weird about being a blogger. This morning I was eating my toast & I thought to myself, “I wonder when Katie Bower will get pregnant again.” haha! Congrats all the way from Montana! No wonder that cruise ship was making you sick, huh? I bet there are a few little things like that you can look back on now & think, “oh! that was the baby!” Can’t wait to hear all about it & I’m dying to know if you’re adding to your band of Bower brothers or if it will be three men and a lady!
Congratulations from California!
I read regularly but rarely comment. Hate that you were worried to announce on your own blog. Sending TONS of congratulations to you and the family!! That is such JOYFUL news and I couldn’t be happier for you. Your (expanding) family is the cutest.
Congrats!!! That’s awesome news! The more cute little Bower babies the better! I’m thinking about having kids soon, and I see you as a true inspirational mama. I can’t imagine it’s easy, but try to ignore the haters. Life’s too short to focus on that kind of negativity, and it sounds like nothing you can do would please them anyway. Lots of love to your sweet and growing family!
Happy belated and congratulations! Your decisions are between you, God, and your family. You don’t have to share, yet you do and I thank you for that. For the people who must snark, they are just cowards who think they are brave hiding behind their keyboards. I honestly don’t get it. If one don’t like how another lives their life and blogs about it, then don’t read it. It’s a no brainer.
Yay! That is GREAT news! Congrats family! Did you get a peek at maybe another boy or girl this time? Healthy is most important and you look GREAT!
Awesome!!! Ignore crazy, negative people! Super happy for you!
Congratulations!!!
I actually envy you…but really really happy for your family in my heart…i wonder….if there is another boy in the mix???
Xoxo
Congrats! What an amazing bday present!!! I would have been pretty excited to find out when I was that far along. I am horrible at waiting! As it was, I was sure I was pregnant every month and ate for “two” just in case 🙂
Congrats!!!!!
First – congrats!! Big time!!
Second – let the haters hate. There will always be someone out there that has a snarky response to any type of news. I see it everywhere, not just on blogs & I don’t understand it. Deep down I think they are just sad, unhappy bored people.
If you don’t like the show you are watching, turn the channel. If you don’t like the music you are listening to, turn the channel.
I know even the smallest remark can hurt, we are only human! Just let it roll off……….
Third – when it’s all done & over with, I hope you still have some time for us ;-} We DO enjoy your blog 🙂 And your new commercials – hunky & handy – you’ve got a nice costar 🙂
You will have your hands full – don’t think you have to entertain us each & every day………………….
And I think the news is so exciting. Scary yes, but meant to happen and I know your and husband (an family) will put forth the way of your abilities! I am due in 4 weeks with boy #2 (and I am 35) and would really like a #3 but I am not sure if it is in our cards and I know I would be scared if it actually happened! Talk about mixed feelings. Thank you for candidly sharing.
That’s a crazy awesome finding out you’re pregnant story! Be proud! I’m very happy for your family! My fingers are crossed you get a little girl this time! 🙂
How wonderful!! Congratulations! I love that you found out from the baby kicking. That’s so sweet, and halfway done… that’s my dream! I’m so impatient I’d love to find out I was already halfway there and to be able to find out the gender right away. I can’t wait to hear if you’re having another little boy or girl and what his or her name will be. Congrats!!
Congrats!! How wonderful! My daughter and LJ are about the same age, and with breastfeeding and not getting a period, I was always afraid I was going to end up on “I didn’t know I was pregnant”. I may have taken a few random pregnancy tests, haha. Best of luck to you – it seems like you are rocking being a mom of 3 so I’m sure 4 will be a breeze!
Congratulations on your fourth miracle! How exciting and what a story you’ll have to tell him/her one day. 🙂
Congratulations!!!!! I have been hoping that you would be announcing a fourth little Bower soon!!! I love reading your blog and watching the boys grow up! I am currently 28 weeks pregnant, and I get the whole not knowing thing. While this baby was totally planned and I found out right away, I would be one of those people who wouldn’t know. I still am hardly showing and can cover up the bump so easily ( I still feel like I look fat, not pregnant). I also have an anterior placenta, so I haven’t really started feeling movement until a few weeks ago! Not to mention that I never had morning sickness or anything!
Anyways, I am so happy for you guys and cannot wait to go on this new journey with you guys! Will you be finding out the gender of this peanut?
Yay!!!! I’m so excited for y’all 🙂 What a wonderful adventure. Sure it will have it’s hard moments, but the hardest things are always worth the most, right?! I can’t wait to hear more about your new precious bundle!
Congrats! What a surprise for you all! and you’re half-way there-extra bonus!! Good luck with the next 18 weeks 🙂
Aww honey, congrats 🙂 How much you wanna bet it’s another beautiful boy?!! Is there another room for the baby, or does someone need to share in the future?
Oh, Katie, I am so happy for y’all! I seriously love reading your blog. I feel such love for your family. I enjoy your blog so much because each post exudes true JOY, that we know only comes from you knowing Jesus. I will be praying for baby Bower 4, and tuning in to share in all the joy to come. Thank you for being you. Thank you for your honesty. Thank you for sharing.
First – Happy belated birthday!
Second – Congratulations! That is the craziest story I’ve ever heard! Not that it’s unbelievable…with three kids and all you do I can totally see how it can happen. But OMG I can’t imagine the range of emotions you have felt since then. So nuts! You’ve got this though! Sending you lots of love and prayers.
P.S. This is going to make me second guess every “phantom kick” I get from gas bubbles. Hah.
P.S.S. I hope you decide to find out the sex. That way you’ll know if you have to start making ALL.THE.BOWS.
Congratulations and Happy Birthday Katie!
I have been reading your blog for a while now and have enjoyed watching your family grow.
There are no words…other than congratulations!!!! Another baby is a phenomenal blessing. Wishing you a healthy (remainder of your) pregnancy, birth, and baby!
To share your life with everyone (and that’s what these blogs do) you must develop a thick skin and hold your head up high. I feel you’re doing a great job of both. Congrats on the new addition; it does take a lot of energy… but when you have grandkids (I have 7), you’ll look back and forget how tired you were all the time and just remember hugs and giggles. PS: God’s timing is perfect!
Congratulations Bowers! I am so thrilled!!!!! YOU GOT THIS KATIE! As a mother I find you very inspiring, that’s what keeps me stopping by daily. I don’t normally read the comments so it saddens me to hear people are taking shots at you. Some people feel the need to bring others down to make themselves feel better. There is nothing you can do, but I hope my comment tips things the other way.
For the record, I have an Aunt that got pregnant so quickly after her second child she didn’t know she was pregnant with her third until she felt kicking 😉 it’s not uncommon! I can’t wait to see the newest Bower family member! I hope the rest of your pregnancy and delivery go smoothly! xoxo!
Congratulations!!!!
I have been a blog follower for three years and I don’t think I’ve ever commented, but I had to just say congratulations, and you’ll do great! I have four kids 3 and under and it is exhausting, but has been the greatest blessing and I wouldn’t have it any other way!
I love reading your blog! It takes a lot of courage to share and be transparent, thank you!
sneaky! Baby number four is what I thought with the title and then not because you turned 34. I really hope you share details of that doctor’s visit. What did the sonogram tech say when s/he was surprised with a 20 week baby? How did you react? Did you find out the sex then? And a big congrats on baby #4 to your (big) family.
Hey Katie (and family!),
I am so excited for you and your family…please don’t let others rob your joy! Y’all make such gorgeous babies, you have such an amazing familial support system, and your faith is strong and grounded. God will certainly bless you with the resources you need, continual support, and deep rooted peace.
I would love to see your boys gain another brother (four boys! how fun!), but I would also be elated to see y’all have a little tutu-wearing baby girl! So excited to find out alongside you.
And too weird…after you had LJ I had a feeling that you’d get pregnant again soon! CONGRATS!! 🙂
Blair
blairblogs.com
Congratulations! Sounds funny, but after having 2 kids, I was already 2 months along before I realized that I was preggo the third time around. I’m about 2 months ahead of you, and can’t wait to hear more about Baby Bower #4. Best wishes and prayers coming your way.
And, I’m even more impressed with the amount of projects and posting that you’ve been doing with the blog given that you were expecting. You deserve a cape, woman! 😉
I never comment, but have been a long time reader, and I just had to tell you congratulations! I can only imagine the shock and range of emotions you must have felt when you found out how far along you were…like, whoa! But as a reader I’m glad we won’t have to wait as long to find out what you’re having (assuming you’ll tell us), and hear about the birth. 🙂 I am having #3 in May and am scared to death for what this will do to my energy and ability to give my boys what they need, so I think you’re honestly is refreshing. Best to you and your growing family from California! (and ignore all the haters…haters gonna hate)
CONGRATS!!!!! I hope its a little girl!
I made my way over from younghouselove’s blog awhile back. I have never commented but Congratulations! What a beautiful post – so honest and vulnerable. Totally made me cry when you got to the part about Jeremy.
Congrats! What a beautiful family you have. Truly blessed.
You’ve so got this. You can and will rock this. I have four, and I know you can do it. I love reading your blog, appreciate your open and loving attitude. God blessed you with that big house for a reason, you are gonna fill it up with family, friends and LOVE!
Ah! Congratulations! I only have one and can completely understand how hectic it is taking care of them and not paying attention to yourself. Who has the time? Listen at least you didn’t find out at 35 weeks like this lady in Tampa this week, who was having discomfort and ended up giving birth to a 15lb baby!!! lol! She was a mother of two previously. Crazy!!
Are you finding out the sex this time? You probably already know by now. Lol!
Congratulations again!
I love your blog and your sweet family. I never comment but I wanted to say Congratulations and what an amazing blessing. This sweet baby is meant to be in your family and will do incredible things in this world. So excited for you! xoxo
Hi Katie! First time commenting long time reader. But congratulations! I have two Littles and sometimes wonder how I’d add a third and a fourth to that (even though I want to!). I understand that fear. parenting little kids is hard work! But yes what a blessing! God bless you And give you peace and joy … And an endless well of energy!! Praying for you lady. I hope this pregnancy is a good one.
All the best.
Joanna 🙂
Congratulations Katie! This is a beautiful blessing from God, you have made a beautiful family and I look forward to hearing even more about the pregnancy! Hope you’re feeling great! Xo
Congrats!
I have 2 boys and am due with our third boy/girl in August.
Can’t wait to hear all about your new one!
OMG! Congratulations! I always told my husband that I was so jealous of people who found out they were pregnant when they were halfway through because it doesn’t drag as much! SO, lucky you. I can only imagine all the emotions running through your head, but from my vigilant reading of your blog for the past few years, I know you have got this and this little person is so lucky to be a part of your family! Sending warm wishes and hugs your way!
Yay!! For some reason I have been waiting for this. Every time I have gone to your blog I’ve been expecting a pregnancy announcement. And for no reason at all. I didn’t know anything about the photoshopping accusations and I’ve actually been thinking that you’ve done an awesome job of losing all your LJ pregnancy weight. You are amazing and will do this well too! I have 4 kiddos but they are between 3 and 11, so a lot more spread out. Extra prayers for you!
Katie, congratulations to you and Jeremy! Loved this post and your honesty. So exciting and scary. I’m the mom of four boys (the youngest is 6 months now) so I can understand. It’s busy, crazy, messy and so much fun. I wouldn’t change a thing except for I need four more hands. Scratch that, I need four more of me;-) You will do awesome!
WOOHOO!!!!
I loved having siblings growing up and while I don’t have kids yet, I’ve always thought, the more siblings I can give them, the better!
Congrats!
xo
ROCK that baby!! God never gives us more than we can handle. Remind yourself of that, breath and know it will all work out.
I wondered with the title of this post at first, but your birthday news stopped that feeling. For about a minute!!!! Congratulations on the newest lil sweet pea! Half cooked already!! Wow!!!! (Hoping you get to add a girl, tho there’s nothing wrong with a herd of little boys!)
Congrats on your growing, beautiful family!
CONGRATS on such exciting news!!!!!! My second was such a pleasant surprise as well. But i couldn’t imaginemy life without her!! How far will this baby and LJ be? Mine are 15 months apart. It’s challenging but doable. I’m obsessed with my kids so thats what makes me go!!!!! Can’t wait to hear more about this pregnancy!
Clearly this is God’s work and meant to be! I am on the way to having 3 kids born within 3 years. I look to your blog for inspiration that I can handle three, and I know if anyone can handle 4, it is you! And how awesome to sail through the first trimester without even noticing (I say as I sip on some coke to settle my stomach).
WOW! Congrats Bowers! That is awesome and scary and exciting news! Can’t wait to see the new little one, and know if it is a boy or girl!!
I have followed your blog forever, but I don’t think I’ve ever commented. I just wanted to say congratulations and I wish all the best for you and your growing family. And, ignore anyone that leaves a rude or hurtful comment. Your family is nobody’s business but yours. Just because we read your blog doesn’t mean we are entitled to weigh in on how you run your life. Enjoy this happy event!!!!!
Congratulations! Ignore the nastiness. They must have never been told to keep it to themselves if they have nothing nice to say! Can’t wait to hear more on baby #4!
Congrats! God is in control; always trust in Him! You are in my prayers. ☺️
Katie, I found your blog a few months ago via Young house love. I never comment on blogs, but this post could have been written by me. I too was still nursing baby #3 and using contraceptives without fail when I learned I was expecting baby no. 4. My first reaction was tears and fear. I thought, “I don’t have enough of myself left to give another child. I ‘m already maxed out.” I also felt guilt because I wanted to be extatic about each of my babies no matter if they were planned or not. Lastly, I feared telling my husband and his reaction. His reaction was one of surprise, but joy. Good man! God knew, He gave more grace, and now #4 is 18 months and we can’t imagine life without him. Congrats! Surprise blessings are just extra sweet even when the initial reaction is a bit sour. 🙂
Congrats! I’m the youngest of four children. My oldest sister is just five years older than me. When I was in my 20s, my mom told me that she cried tears of desperation when she found out she was pregnant with me. She just didn’t know how she could do it. But after I arrived, she just knew she could and she gave me the middle name “Joy” and I was the best sleeper out of all my siblings cause God knew she couldn’t handle everything. 🙂 It will be chaotic but you guys will find a way. I wouldn’t change my family growing up for anything.
Congrats! Very exciting! You still look so tiny! Maybe you are carrying different because you are having a little girl!
Congratulations, Katie. I shouting out your news excitedly to my husband and he started teasing me about really “knowing” you. While I may not really know you, I do enjoy this little window, this Bower Power blog, into your life to find inspiration, encouragement, laughter, tips, smiles and so much more. Thank you for sharing and as the mother of five sweet children, parenting/motherhood is a priceless gift. Enjoy it. Babies are precious blessings from God.
So happy for your family!!!
Congrats on baby number 4! What a wonderful surprise! Expected or unexpected babies are wonderful things and you and Jeremy are doing an awesome job as parents. Hang in there!
This is great news. Congratulations on your new precious gift. It will be hard and SO worth it. You have a community of strangers sending you support because you choose to put yourself out there and that is very special. Please remember our support when times feel tough. Happy Birthday too!
Wow. That is quite the shock! Congratulations to you and your family. I can only imagine it’s going to take a while for the idea of another, especially being so far along with another, to set in.
Now the real question, are you going to find out if it’s a boy or girl? Or have you already?
Congrats!!!! That’s great news!
I am someone who just recently started reading your blog (about a year) and you are such a breath of fresh air! DON’T you dear listen/read any comments that are not absolutely thrilled for you. This is amazing and wonderful and is exactly what God wanted for you. I know it must be scary but if anyone can handle it you can. Love you and your beautiful family and your wonderful projects and posts. God bless!
Super weird…I hadn’t checked your blog for a few weeks and I just had this random thought that “Katie Bower is pregnant again, I should check her blog” so I popped over here and sure enough, you are! Crazy! Congratulations!
Congratulations! I am a mom of four – four boys actually. And my last one was a surprise and we were actively trying to prevent but because I had just stopped breastfeeding baby #3, my cycle was all out of whack and I must have ovulated a week earlier than expected or something! Anyway – I know the feeling of not being happy about a pregnancy initially – the fears about having kids close together and what not. My youngest is turning 2 on Thursday and he truly completes our family. Could not imagine our clan without him – and he is my #3’s best buddy and I’m so happy they have eachother.
-meghan
Amen!
So many congratulations to you and your family Katie! Ya know, I’ve come across some of those snarky (or downright nasty) comments before and all I can say is they don’t know you at all. They can judge, and I know it hurts, I’ve been there, but they don’t know you at all. Heck I don’t even know you but I’m super happy for you and I pray that this pregnancy goes well for you and that you get everything done that you have planned. I’m currently 24.5 weeks pregnant with #3. Its an exciting time isn’t it?! Just be happy. You deserve it. 🙂
OMG!!!! I saw the picture of you holding the cake and thought, Katie looks prego and hasn’t told us yet! Then scrolled down for the joyous news! Congratulations! You have this girl! Anyone who can mother, keep a house up and come up with all the genius updates/projects has more in the tank!!! Hugs to you all!
Crying tears of joy for your family!!
I totally remember crying tears of fear when I took a test and discovered I was pregnant. I had taken so many before that were negative that I wasn’t really expecting anything different. And like Jeremy, my husband responded so sweetly that my tears of fear turned to fears of joy!
Praying that you have tons of energy and are able to knock out a lot of things off your to-do list before baby bower #4 arrives!!
You’ve so got this, because He’s got you! Congratulations on your newest blessing!
Congratulations! Wow! And you’re halfway done:) He or she will be here before you know it!
Katie, I rarely comment but this is one of those times that I want to say…. Happy Birthday and congratulations on baby #4! I’m sure you are probably freaked out at having so many little ones, but I truly believe that God never gives you more than you can handle! I think it’s hilarious that baby had to kick up a storm in there to let you know that it’s around. My guess it’s a girl… we are impatient and sassy like that aren’t we? “Hello… I’m here mom!!” I can’t wait to read about the big arrival!
Oh my goodness!!! What a blessing! Congrats, Bower family! You all make the cutest babies- can’t wait to “meet”‘Bower baby #4! God bless you all!
CONGRATS!
I have a similar story, but I found out at 15 weeks instead of 22. same thing, I’d been nursing, I’m always tired, I never have morning sickness… (http://www.thekriegers.org/2015/01/just-a-bit-past-the-halfway-point/)
It was a bit shocking to find out that I was 15 weeks pregnant, and find out the gender at the exact same time.
And I feel the same way. This is my #3 and my #2 (20 months old) still wakes up EVERY SINGLE NIGHT. I’m exhausted. I JUST finished nursing. But then I’m also like, OH MY GOODNESS! A NEW BABY ON THE WAY! WHAT DID I EVER DO TO BE SO BLESSED!?!?
First I want to say Congrats to you both! What a wonderful blessing!
Second I am so sorry that people have left rude comments that is not fair to you at all, I know all to well the sting of finding out someone is pregnant but that is not a reason to be rude to you! I was lucky after many attempts and a couple miscarriages to have a son and I am beyond grateful for him, do I wish we could have had another yes but it did not work out that way but I am happy for you and anyone else who is able to have children no matter when or how they come about. Life is to short to hold hate in your heart for things that are beyond your control! So happy for you and you family!
Congrats! Funny thing is I clicked through to one of your old posts just the other day and didn’t realize it was when you were expecting LJ, I thought it was days ago, not months, and took the comment about “the family soon to be larger” to mean you were indeed pregnant again!
WOW! Congratulations!
A million bajillion congrats!!! I hate that you have haters and I want to say thank you for being REAL!! Us mommas need more realness in our lives. Will you find out if Baby 4 is a girl or boy?!
What sweet news! Congratulations! Prayers for you and your family.
Congratulations! Maybe this will be the GIRL in your family!
Happy Birthday! And one huge CONGRATULATIONS to you and Jeremy! Wishing you all the joy and blessings that come with a full and happy home.
Looking forward to reading more about your journey. Hugs from Virginia!
I was singing that in my head as I read it!
YAY! Another Bower baby!!! Who could NOT be excited about that when those boys are SOO incredibly darling! And just for the record, I totally photoshopped my early pregnant belly in our Christmas card this year 🙂 I always think how appalling and sad it is that bloggers have to deal with so much criticism of their own personal life decisions, just because a person has the ability to say mean opinions while hiding behind the anonymity of the internet. I couldn’t run a blog because I”m too tender hearted and would spend all my time bawling about the comments of the mean spirited minority. Especially when you throw hormones into the mix. You guys are wonderful wonderful parents, and obviously Heavenly Father agrees because he keeps stretching the capacity of your parenting abilities, as well as your opportunities to bless others. 🙂 Can’t wait to find out whether you’re finally getting that baby girl, or if it will be another incredibly adorable Bower boy!
congrats! I’m really excited for you guys! Don’t worry about what others think because everyone is on their own journey in this crazy thing called life! …and I have a friend who didn’t know she was pregnant for awhile either….it’s happends! :)) can’t wait to see pictures!
Congrats! That’s super exciting and a wonderful story about your 4th! Maybe it’s a girl since it’s such a different pregnancy! 😉
I already commented and again want to say congrats:) But I also thought of this article I read last week about internet, particularly blog, trolls. It was so interesting. It gave a new insight to these truly sad, sad people. And it’s not a downer, so don’t be afraid to read it! Haha!
http://www.theguardian.com/society/2015/feb/02/what-happened-confronted-cruellest-troll-lindy-west
Best of luck to you in the last half of your pregnancy. Whether it’s a boy or a girl, we know one thing; it’ll be a cutie like your other three!
What a blessing! A scary, exciting, anxious, elated, and well – every type of emotion – blessing! As a woman that has struggled with fertility, thank you for your sweet and kind words. Thank you for your thoughts about us. Know that we know your heart is pure – and I for one am SUPER excited for you! (even though I don’t know you – is that weird?). Congrats Katie! I can’t wait to see how God blesses you with this little one! Your babies are SO INCREDIBLY BEAUTIFUL! Blessings – tons of amazing Blessings to you and your family!
how awesome!!! 🙂 god is awesome and he knows what he’s doing blessing you with another little one! im so so excited for you and a little jealous of your tiny bump. haha im 25wks with my 3rd boy and am already getting comments how big i am…good luck and enjoy what you have left of this pregnancy!
Congratulations I am so happy that the baby has a wonderful family. Now don’t name her or him SURPRISE!! Surprises, like yours, are wonderful. You are a loving and happy mother. HUGS
Turning 3-4 and going from a mother of 3 to 4, how cool is that?! Congratulations! Awesome news!
Like you, I had three little boys. Purposefully close in age and the absolute closest things to perfection. Then, like you, I found myself newly 34 years old and feeling off. A quick check on the calendar and a pregnancy test confirmed what my gut undeniably knew. I was pregnant with my 4th child, having only had my 3rd a mere 7 mos earlier. I was completely freaked out, about telling my husband, his reaction to this unplanned moment, about sharing it with family, friends. A large family is something of a novelty and I was already full with comments. “You have your hands full.” “You’re pregnant….AGAIN?” And so on. And after months of fear and anxiety at what we thought would be an overwhelming task (4 kids under 5), she joined our family and it was as if we had been missing her all along. So n just know there is a mama out there that understands and also knows the beauty of this moment. 🙂
Congrats! What an amazing blessing! I enjoying reading about your family and hope to one day be the awesome mother you are!
congrats! ignore the haters 🙂 what a blessing from God.
Happy belated birthday and congratulations! What a wonderful surprise! I love you guys and haters gonna hate hate hate hate hate….
Congrats! And don’t let anyone make you feel bad for sharing your joyful news, that’s wonderful! Wishing you the best!
22 weeks…….Is there finally going to be a Bower girl? 🙂
Congratulations to your family!!
Congratulations to all of you! Especially you Katie. I don’t have any children yet but I adore reading about yours. I wish you all the best and you’re in my thoughts and prayers.
What a blessing, congrats!!
Awesome. Awesome, awesome, awesome news. Love your transparency and love the fact that you are going to love this little one no matter what. Congrats!
Congratulations Katie! You and Jer make some beautiful babies. The more the merrier!
Congrats!!!! Don’t give people a second thought. I was raised to let things roll off ya!!! So to crap with them!!! Yay. I am telling you now if you end up with one that is as adorable as Weston ( i wish i could remember the pic you posted) I am stealing the baby.
Ok, no i am not…I am not crazy 🙂
Congrats! I had the strangest feeling that you were going to announce #4 – maybe because I am expecting #4 and our LO’S are all similar in age. I understand your range of emotion as we went through it when we found out we were expecting #4 (I am about 6 weeks ahead of you). We had finally grasped all the changes and were looking forward to the challenge when we found out this peanut has heart conditions that will require surgeries. So now I’ve been dealing with the guilt of further short changing the big kids and not having enough energy/time/money/hands/sleep…so I get where you are coming from. Having a lot of small children is amazing, but also exhausting. You will do great and the time will fly. Best wishes for a healthy pregnancy.
Congrats! Another beautiful Bower on the way!!
I haven’t commented in a long time, basically because I’m lazy… 🙂 Anyway, I just wanted to let you know that I am beyond thrilled for you! Babies are such a blessing from the Lord and you and Jeremy are such awesome parents (at least via the lens that is the internet). It’s seems obvious to me why He has chosen you to raise up 4 of His next Mighty Army. Stand strong, Mama! ((Hugs))
I never comment, but I wanted to say CONGRATS! I admit, I am jealous that you don’t get sick, oh, how I wish I didn’t! But I admit, it is pretty awesome that you were halfway through your pregnancy before you knew – it’s like only being pregnant for four 1/2 months! I got pregnant when I had an IUD (it was my fourth, too), and there is that super surprising moment when you find out, and the shock, but then immediately the excitement, of knowing that a whole new person will be joining your family – there is truly nothing like it.
Here’s hoping you get a girl this time around (although you probably already know what it is)
congrats! happy birthday!
You have every right to be happy (and sad for those who are struggling to conceive) but please IGNORE THE HATERS! You are doing an amazing job. I don’t have any kids, I don’t know if I want any, but I love how you are raising your family and it brings me back to your blog all the time. Your honesty is great, because it makes me feel like if I ever decide to be a parent, I will know there are so many challenges, good and bad ahead. You deserve every happiness and you will be great. I will be sending you and your family love and light as you face fears and keep being a great mom and family! I also read Coffee and Crumbs, I don’t know if you have, but it’s a great parenting blog, and there is this essay: http://www.coffeeandcrumbs.net/blog/2015/1/13/the-little-landing about going from 3 to 4. I am sure your little bundle of joy will be exactly what you need.
You are beautiful and amazing and don’t listen to anyone else!
Congratulations to you and your family!!!!!!!! Do not listen to any negative comments ever because I think you are the best ! For real
I have been following you and your family ( that sounds bad…I sound like a stalker HA ) for a couple years now and was so excited to be pregnant at the same time as you last year and to follow someone else going through all of it (my twin girls were actually born the day after LJ). Please keep being you and keep them babies coming. You guys sure know how to make them beautiful kiddos!
OMG!! That is awesome. Can’t imagine anyone posting mean things about a family welcoming another baby. I know that it is hard for mommas that are trying and still waiting.. as I was one of them and felt a twinge of jealous when Sherry on YHL posted about her expecting baby Teddy. But I was definitely so happy for them as I am for you. And now I am t-minus 9 days (or less) away from welcoming our first baby. So CONGRATS to you and your growing family. Can’t believe how you find out. What a fun and crazy surprise. Maybe since you are carrying completely different than the other 3 it could be a sign of a little pink in the Bower Household. Enjoy your new pregnancy and your 3 little boys. What a blessed family. 🙂
Congratulations! I had an almost identical experience in discovering my pregnancy. People really wondered how I wouldn’t know. Same story– breastfeeding mama without cycles, other life stressors, felt the baby kicking and thought, what? I was 20 weeks at the ultrasound. You’re amazing, and will do great!
Katie, Congrats!!!!!! This baby is a gift from our Heavenly Father. Philippians 4:6. Amazing news!!!!!
I wanted to take the time to share with you my heart. I have a beautiful six-year-old little girl. And since she was born, we have hd four miscarriages. Just as I view each of this babies and my time with them as a gift from God, I view your baby in the same light – a true blessing. I am grateful God makes it easy for some people. Sometimes I get tired, because I want it to be easy for me too, but that’s not what He has for me. Sometimes, in the moment I am hearing or reading someone’s announcement, I remember how empty my arms are, but it never blocks my joy for those people. I hope you can see that those emotions can co-exist and the sadness and missing of my babies is not for you to bear, just like your shock and fear isn’t for me to bear. I want people to be blissfully happy, and to never bear the hardships I face in completing my family. In the end, God wants us to love one another, and lift each other up, and I hope you know that women are doing that, even if we shed a tear because God put it on our hearts to have more children and it hasn’t happened yet. Know that your baby, your strength and you household is being prayed for, and I hope you have the best experience, and are comforted by the knowledge that His ways are better than out ways
Since you are 22 weeks, are you going to share if Baby Bower #4 will be wearing lots of blue or pink? Congratulations! We have a 3 1/2 month old boy and a four year old boy. I would be God smacked if we found out we were pregnant.
Amazing announcement!!! Congratulations! You and Jeremy make beautiful children, I can’t wait to see this little bundle.
What exciting news!!
Like Taylor swift would say Haters gonna hate, hate hate hate hate… you are awesome, celebrate your new little bundle of joy.
Happy congrats – wallow in joy!!
I don’t really ever comment on your blogs, but I am a faithful reader. I adore you, your family, and your mad decorating/DIY skillz. I love what you put out there, and it really breaks my heart that you get any negative feedback. You don’t have to share your life with us, and I appreciate that you do. You and Jeremy are going to ROCK being a mommy & daddy to 4 little ones! Put your faith in the Lord (as I know you do), and everything will work out exactly the way it is supposed to. Congratulations!!!
Congratulations!! What a great surprise for you and your family!
Congratulations! Babies are such a blessing! Oh and Happy belated birthday too!!
I agree. I am a momma that struggled for 2 years to conceive and was just about to start down the adoption path when BAM… we finally got pregnant. While a twinge of jealousy would lurk in from time to time, I wouldn’t want anyone to go through the emotional roller coaster that is trying to conceive that I did. I am always happy when women who want to get pregnant enjoy that easy road and are truly grateful for the blessing. Each baby/child is a blessing and a wonderful addition to a family no matter how they came to be.
Oh my gosh, that’s CRAZY! Congratulations!
Ok, I have to say something that may make me sound like a total jerk, but you brought it up, so here it goes. When I was reading this post, I definitely felt the green monster coming out. I’ve been trying to get pregnant for about 16 months no, with absolutely nothing happening and….it’s hard. I’ve been reading your blog for a while now and you just seem to get pregnant so easily so it’s really easy to get jealous. And when you’re trying so hard to do something and somebody is all “Oops! I was totally trying NOT to do that, but it happened!” ….well, it’s hard not to internalize that. But I know it’s not about ME, deep down. So yeah, gut reaction is to scream and yell because life isn’t fair, but thanks so much for acknowledging the fact that this news wouldn’t be so amazing to everybody. I’m really truly so happy for you because babies are awesome!
I also really like that you owned up to your fear about this surprise. I feel like if I’m ever lucky enough to finally get pregnant, it won’t be right for me to ever feel scared about raising a human, but I know that fear will come. Right now I’m desperately wanting to be pregnant, and a lot of people know that, so if I have a rough pregnancy, will I be “allowed” to complain about it? Am I allowed to worry about getting everything done, going back to work, etc?
I don’t know. I guess I just wanted to say thank you. Thanks so much for acknowledging the fact that this is exciting for you, but scary, and that you felt cautious about sharing it because you knew that it could cause some feelings of jealousy. That’s not something you had to even care about, but coming from somebody who is struggling, that empathy is much appreciated.
Happy birthday, Katie, and congratulations on your new babe. I know you have dreamt of a big family, and I’m excited to watch your family continue to grow! I’m thankful you are willing to share your personal life with us.
I offered this advice to a friend who is expecting her fourth (four years old and under) after she received some hurtful remarks: “Keep talking about and announcing this pregnancy with the same excitement as if it were your first. Don’t apologize or act like it isn’t exactly what you want for your family.”
GIRL! Congrats, congrats. My babies aren’t quite as close as yours, but I’ve got 5 of them and a few came as a surprise. You are an amazing momma and that baby will be one thankful kid when it grows up to know how great they had it. I saw your birthday picture the other day and was thinking how SKINNY you look. (I take FOREVER to get that baby weight off):) Good luck with your pregnancy..and congrats again! 🙂
HUGE HUGE HUGE CONGRATULATIONS! Selfishly I’m hoping this new babe is a girl, so I can see how you would (1) decorate a girly nursery and (2) through some girly birthday parties! But no matter what, so happy for your beautiful little family! 🙂
I feel ya on the surprise…and people just can’t understand until they’ve been there. I was 13 weeks when I found out I was pregnant. Went to the doctor because I was certain I was dying…nope, just pregnant. I had had spotty periods (not normal but definitely made me feel like I wasn’t pregnant) for 3 months and was on birth control.
Life is crazy sometimes–just gotta trust and hang on for the beautiful and amazing ride. 🙂
CONGRATS!
Yayyyyy, Katie! I am so, so happy for your beautiful, growing family! Congratulations to the Bower crew! Prayers for a healthy pregnancy!
Katie, what an inspiration you are to me! I have 2 kids (the oldest being Wills age) and I often feel down about not getting enough projects done around my house. When I feel this way, I just log onto your blog and remind myself that if you can get all that you get done with three, I can certainly get a few things done with two (although you are definitely closer to superwoman than I)! We have recently started considering having a third and after reading this I feel like we could handle it! Congratulations on #4!
Congratulations!!! I’ve followed you for several years, and love everything about you and your family! Your candor, your style, your quirkiness, all of it!! And to see that your sweet family is growing again makes my heart smile!!
wowza! Congratulations! A little anecdote: my parents were on their last home visit, a baby was born and ready for loving adoptive parents… my mom kept feeling pains and weird stomach things. My dad said “get to the dr b/c we can’t have you sick when the adoption people visit!” WELL. My mom got home 30 minutes before the adoption people— and two people who tried for 9 years, suffered miscarriages and heartache, found out in 20 short weeks their own blessing would arrive. She was still a size 4 🙂 The quote should be: “(wo)man plans and God laughs.”
Katie and Jeremy!!!! This is amazing news! Congratulations to you and your family. I’ve been following your blog for longer than I’m willing to say :-). I remember when you were struggling to get pregnant with Weston. You wrote about it then, and you were so beautifully honest. That’s what I love about you and your writing. One year you even wished me happy birthday on my Facebook! So I think you are pretty fab.
Something that helps me when things look a little rough is that God only gives you what you can handle. As in the cards you are dealt is what was meant for you. I know you can do it and I look forward to reading more! Much love from Ausralia 🙂
I wanted to say: Slobbery kissed back at you! And also, a word I have for you (that describes you, not just like a random word I felt like shouting at you): abandon.
You live your life with abandon – which is a skill VERY few people have. I’d be terrified with babies so close together, and even though I’m sure it will be challenging, going into it with your attitude of excitement to kiss their little, squishy faces is perfect. Just perfect.
what a sweet post — so nice of you to open up and be honest about the good and the bad! it’s easy to look at bloggers and think “wow, their lives look so put together and perfect” so it’s nice when you can share a bit of the other side 🙂 congrats on four (i’m the oldest of four girls and it’s just always so crazy and fun)!
Congrats! Ignore those rude people’s comments! Hope you get a girl, but if not, any baby is a wonderful blessing! But girly things are great! 🙂
How bizarre is that comment!? Sorry you can’t just enjoy an exciting moment, Katie, without weirdos saying strange things!
Congratulations sweet lady!!! So happy for you and your family. Keep that sweet spirit about you. Keep loving Jesus. Keep being your kooky dorky hilarious self!!! It’s nice to know there are others out there!
Muah!
Wow! Congrats, Katie! Just goes to show you how every pregnancy is different 🙂 So very happy for you and your family.
Haters are gonna hate! We love you for putting yourself out there and sharing with the world. Keep being yourself and enjoy this blessing!
Congratulations! So happy for you and your family. 🙂
Happy Birthday! Congratulations! I wore the shirt pictured last week when I was 22 weeks pregnant! Maybe you’ll have a girl and I’ll have a boy and they’ll be in an arranged marriage like Clara and Will. Can’t wait to see is you are finding out what you’re having and if you’ll announce the name early like LJ. Best Wishes!
Katie, Congratulations to you & your family! There are always going to be those cranky people who can’t be happy for anybody and who love to make snide comments…pay them no attention. Keep doing what you do..You rock!
Long time reader (back when you guys were just a cute couple!) and I’m not sure I have ever commented, but I really just wanted to say congratulations on the expansion of your beautiful family!
Congratulations!!! What a fabulous birthday present. Let’s call this a “surprise” instead of an “oops”. I was an oops and my siblings made me feel bad about it. My mom said just because she hadn’t planned me, didn’t mean she didn’t want me and it took the sting away from the older siblings teasing me. She had 5 babies age 7 and under. Now that I am grown with my own children, I understand how she must have felt overwhelmed. It will work out. You have a great family and support system. Blessings to you.
A massive congratulations to the Bower family. Another beautuful bundle is on its way. Cant wait to meet this little one. Do you know what your having this time? Ignore the naysayers Katie and enjoy this pregnancy.
Best wishes from Australia xo
Wow!!! What a crazy, scary, exciting and wonderful blessing! I can’t wait to see the joy this sweet surprise brings you and your family. As someone who struggled with infertility for three years and lots of loss, I was never offeended or hurt when I read your pregnancy announcements. They always gave me hope and I was always encouRaged and that it was so sweet how thoughtful you were in all of your posts.
Now I am a mom of 6 month old boy boy twins, and your blog helped get me through 11 weeks of bedrest. These littles were worth the long hard wait and all the hurt. God is so good, and his plans are perfect. Can’t wait to see what this new Bower looks like! Oh, and what a great loving husband you have. What a wonderful reaction.
Having a 4 month old along with a busy 10 year old, I haven’t been reading blogs lately. I saw this on Instagram and just wanted to say Congratulations! I didn’t realize I was pregnant with my daughter until I felt movement too. Any signs of being pregnant I felt I had reasons. Tired= final exams, quesy stomach=flu season, weight gain= I was eating like a pig, why wouldn’t I gain weight?! I was scared and cried too. I don’t like surprises and like to always have a plan. She has been the greatest surprise of my life! Hoping for a happy and healthy pregnancy!
So excited for all of you Bowers!!!! That is just about the best birthday surprise ever (even if it didn’t feel that way initially!). I am one of those lady’s who has been trying for over a year for our first. But in no way is your announcement negative, in fact it’s inspirational!! Again, so happy for you, Jeremy, the boys, and the extended family! Congratulations!!!!
I totally could’ve written this except I’m preggers with #3. #2 and #3 will be 18 months apart. Very unexpected. The shock is just now wearing off. Still breastfeeding. I keep telling myself God’s timing and plan are perfect! Congrats! Even when we’re in shock and things haven’t gone according to our plan, children are still a blessing from the Lord!
I d’ont comment often but always take a great pleasure to read your posts (and your jokes ! ). When I saw the title of your post I thought about a pregnancy announcement but then remembered how LJ was so small.
It is just wonderful, because you were already saying a few weeks after LJ’s birth how ready you felt to welcome another baby.
Take care of you and your little ones, I am so thrilled for you !! Can’t wait to read your next adventures.
Congrats, wishing you all the best in this scary, happy, exciting time. Praying for your sanity, you can do this!
Hi Katie,
I’m so thrilled for you. I just have one question (and you don’t have to answer if you’re not comfortable) but are you at all concerned about potential effects of being exposed to harmful chemicals or maybe a bit of alcohol when you didn’t know that you were expecting? That’s a common kicker with women who unexpectedly find out that they’re expecting. Before 8 weeks or so it’s usually not a problem but you found out much later than that. I know you’re nursing but usually you can have some wine or a drink at certain time intervals between feedings. Then there are all the prenatal vitamins and the whole nine yards.
I mean, I’m sure our grandparents were drinking (and doing lots of things that we now know are bad) while pregnant in the 50’s and then next generation turned out just fine, I was just curious about how you were felt.
Yay yay yay! I’m so happy for you! Our 4th was also a bit of a surprise, but an amazing baby and the perfect addition to our family. You will not only be survive, but you’ll thrive!
Hi Katie! I’ve been around since your pre will days and I rarely comment. You even gave me some suggestions for a room make over eons ago and 2 houses ago. I think I was the only one that had chickens in your little yearly survey. Lol. Anyway, all that to say- love your blog, love watching your family grow, so proud of the momma that you are and the way you present yourselves! So sorry you have to think about the naysayers when you are making an exciting announcement! We currently have seven children: one adopted four bio and 2 foster. We get those looks now. 😉 And I have cried after an positive too- we all have those moments! Congratulations and maybe the last month won’t feel so long since it was a surprise!! 😉 Congratulations!!!
I have never commented, but have followed since before you had Will. But this deserves a comment. Congratulations!!! You are so great and I love reading your blog. Keep up the good work, and best wishes on your upcoming new addition!
Shouts of wow! wow! wow! How cool, how exciting, how nerve wracking. VBAC #3 baby!!! {As a mom of boys, I’m secretly hoping for another boy!}
Only love here. So happy for you Bowers! Praying that God gives you peace as you go forward. Thank you for being brave enough to share and live your life authentically with us watching. Congrats!!!!
Dude. My jaw literally fell open! LOL SOOO EXCITING!!! God is good. Just remember that. What a blessing and a challenge all rolled into one. That’s the best kind of lifey thing, ya know. The kind where you are growing (I mean mentally, but in this case phsically growing a human as well!), and expanding your heart. You have more than enough love for another child. You will find the energy somewhere. 🙂
KATIE!!!!!!!!!!! This is the best news!!!! I’m sorry that you have to go through haters especially haters who don’t know your process of getting pregnant. This is a wonderful surprise and my goodness I can’t wait to see what beautiful baby you pop out next! All the best!!!
Congratulations Katie! I don’t comment very often, but want to let you know what a blessing you are. Your blog is one of the first things I check to see if there is anything new. I love how you share your faith, yet aren’t “preachy or pushy”, just giving Glory to God. I love how you keep things real, how you share your insecurities, how you share your struggles. I wish that people could just be uplifting to one another, and leave the judgements and rude comments unsaid, but we live in a sinful world. PLEASE, please keep deleting them, and know that so many are overjoyed at this wonderful news for your family !! This baby is already a blessing and so loved. Excited for you!
To H-E-double hockey sticks with the haters! This is amazing and crazy and awesome and all of that! I am still doing the math trying to figure out how far apart LJ and Baby #4 will be. Sooooo crazy! But, you are 100% right… God is in control of this and this baby that shouldn’t be is CLEARLY a part of His plan for your family. What a blessing… a crazy, unexpected, awesome blessing! And now, of course, I really want to know if it’s a boy or a girl. 🙂
Congratulations Bower Family!!!! What a wonderful surprise! You should follow Camp Patton – she is hilarious and has four little ones 4 and under with one on the way. :-).
You know you need to have a girl so that Teddy Petersik has a girlfriend and Clara has a girl buddy 🙂
Happy birthday and congrats on #4-i’m hoping for a girl! Rock your story & rise above the haters!
Congrats! I can totally relate with you. My first born stayed a secret until I was 23 weeks. I had no clue until my belly started moving on night when I was laying down. We have been trying for #3 for about 3 years now with no luck but I’m still super happy for you and Jeremy! Mail me some baby dust, would ya? 😉
Congratulations!
I was 22 weeks when I found out about my first pregnancy and it makes me feel WAY less stupid that a Mom of 3 can miss the subtle signs too. 🙂 I also had a litany of reasons why I wouldn’t have noticed…. That surprise baby turned ten last week.
Congrats Katie! What a surprise! Hope everything goes smoothly.
First time commenter here. Congratulations!!! I too am 22 weeks pregnant with my fourth baby. I already have three boys five and under. It’s so crazy, but super fun too. I could relate to a lot of the emotions you expressed about having a fourth baby with multiple young children already.
https://www.bowerpowerblog.com/2013/12/baby-3-faq/
“Did you consider not finding out the gender?
Nope. Both Jeremy and I love finding out as soon as we can. In fact, we even paid to find out early! That didn’t pan out quite as well as we hoped because it required a blood draw and during the first appointment, they put the blood in the wrong vials. Three weeks later, I was impatiently waiting to hear the news and called them…to which they said that I needed to come back in for another draw. Another three weeks later, I learned the lab had dropped my second blood draw and so I did yet ANOTHER blood donation. Three weeks after that is when I found out….one week before my twenty week anatomy ultrasound. So I did find out one week earlier than the normal standard of twenty weeks but it felt like an eternity.”
They ended up not charging us anything extra…everything gets charged to us at the very end after we have the baby, so my guess is that it got buried after we met our max out of pocket. And if you read the entire post I do say that we do things when it feels right…right now doesn’t feel right about finding out. That’s the long and short of it.
xo – kb
Well, I am not a big drinker…I probably had a glass of wine three times in the last six months. I was nursing and yes, taking prenatals because of that. What exactly was the question?
xo – kb
We don’t know yet and we don’t know if we are finding out.
xo – kb
If we find out, we will share.
xo – kb
We haven’t made that decision yet.
xo – kb
Congratulations!!
Thanks for your honesty Kristina…I heard someone once say the best way to explain these situations….it is this…this is your journey…it’s different than others and its okay to feel EVERY step of that journey without comparison, shame or guilt. You can’t compare your pain to someone else’s…there will always be someone experiencing “more” or “less”….you can’t feel shame in your emotional state because of your situation…and you shouldn’t feel guilty for feeling something natural. We all need to support one another. I hope your waiting ends really really soon!
xo – kb
First, let me say, congratulations to you all! And thank you for (I’m not sure what’s the right word) understanding? appreciating? realizing? that not everyone would be thrilled by your news. I remember way back when, it took you longer than you’d expected to get pregnant with Weston, so you’ve been there, even if it was only temporary. I’m very fortunate to sit here and write this with a beautiful 15-month-old asleep on my chest (after years of treatments and losses), but if I’d read this three years ago, that probably would have been it for me, and there are so many other women out there who are desperate to start their families. I know how hard it is to share exciting news, while trying to be respectful of their struggle. So thank you, for thinking of people like me.
Oh my…that is really hard. My friend had that happen twice (once finding out before birth and once finding out when he was two)….I pray for your strength dear mama, precision for the doctors and fast healing for your little peanut!
xo – kb
We don’t know yet. We haven’t yet and we are still adjusting.
xo – kb
Well I go to a doctor that is a single physician practice…he delivers all the babies and he does all the first ultrasounds on a little tiny ultrasound machine…nothing really high tech…so when I made the appointment I told the office I felt movement and then during the ultrasound, he measured different things and came upon the date. That might change because now I have to go to Emory for a more intensive ultrasound so that they can check development of everything. Usually that ultrasound is optional but for me, my doctor said it’s mandatory because I am over 20 weeks. No I didn’t find out the sex…we hadn’t decided we would and I didn’t think I would be able to anyway…so I just said no, not yet.
xo – kb
I think it is a boy just based on how I am not moody or overly crazy (that’s the old wives tale, right?!) and I think what we are thinking is that Weston’s old nursery is going to be the babies room for both LJ and the little one (when they move in)…we haven’t really decided because LJ is still with us (he’s really attached to me!)
xo – kb
My doctor didn’t even look…so I don’t know.
xo – kb
I wonder too!
xo – kb
We haven’t decided but if we do find out, we will let you know!
xo – kb
We didn’t find out and I think that we will decide what to do after this baby AFTER this baby! Ha! We always say that we think we are probably gonna tap out at 5 bio kids…that’s probably all the pregnancies we could handle but if we feel like our bio family is complete after this one…we will stop (hopefully!).
xo – kb
That’s beautifully said. My best friend growing up was adopted and there is no doubt in my mind that she was meant to be the daughter of her very special family.
xo – kb
What a story! I am so sorry for your loss and at the same time overjoyed that you grew your family! I can’t imagine the range of emotions you must be experiencing! You really are amazing.
xo – kb
We haven’t found out and we haven’t made a decision if we will.
xo – kb
We don’t have any news yet…and I don’t know if we will!
xo – kb
We don’t know if we will find out or not…right now it all is happening really soon.
xo – kb
We don’t know yet. It all is happening really fast.
xo – kb
We should but we don’t know if we will…it is just happening really fast.
xo – kb
Whoa Nelly! I don’t think my body could handle that many…I would be peeing everywhere anytime I coughed, laughed or sneezed! And no…we don’t know but we don’t know if we will find out. We just haven’t made the decision yet.
xo – kb
Congratulations, Katie! So happy for you guys!
Congratulations Katie! I am so happy that you guys will be bringing another little one into the world! You’ve got this…I think if anyone can handle four kids it’s you!
If you and your family are excited then hun, that is all that matters. People will always judge based on their own abilities, fears, regrets, or experience because it is just physically impossible to know your life the way you do. I do know that there will be a lot of people questioning you as a person now that you have over three children. Don’t let it bother you (or try at last) they don’t matter. Chin up buttercup. Your life is your own, don’t ever let others words rule and run it… rock it! YOUR way.. because your the only one who can. 🙂
much much love… and awkward stranger belly rubbing.
Wow!! Congratulations Bowers! How exciting!
at least*
From another mama of four age five and under, congrats! There is something so precious about siblings close together (I am one of five born within six years) I’m sure you will do fantastically! All the best!
Shelia – You clearly didn’t read the rest of that paragraph. Katie wrote “…I don’t like to ignore the fact that I experienced a small taste of that ‘wanting’. That wanting and waiting isn’t infertility and I don’t want to confuse the two…but it can still be hard.” That’s what she said. It seems you are taking things out of context in order to pick a fight. While Katie in no way needs me to defend her, and she does put her foot in her mouth (as we all do at times), she owns it when she does. But I don’t think this is one of those times. Any woman who has struggled even a tiny bit to get pregnant knows how difficult and stressful and heart-wrenching it can be (I know this from experience as I have been pregnant 6 times and have 2 children, so do the math), so maybe just be a decent human and cut her some slack for what she wrote during an emotional time instead of trying to bully her with a fallacious argument. If you don’t have anything nice to say, just move along. That’s all.
(And Katie, my oldest son was born a week after Will and my youngest 2 months after Weston, so I completely understand what your wait for Weston was all about because I was following along with you the whole time going through the same “secondary infertility” issues. Congratulations to your family on this new baby. You totally got this 🙂
Congratulations!! I just wanted to say that when I saw the title, “Three-Four,” I totally thought that is what you were saying… that you were going from three to four… kids!! How cool?! You turned 34 and are going from mom of three to mom of four 🙂
Congratulations! What wonderful, news! Was Sherry the first to know?
All the best to you & your beautiful, growing family:)
Congratulations! What a blessing! The fact that you didn’t know and didn’t show with baby #4 until 22 weeks–I think most women dream of not getting too big too early. May God keep watch over you all in this exciting (and exhausting time)! Hurray for all the babies!
Something to look forward to at the next appointment, I guess! 😀
Congratulations! Jeremy’s response was the best! You are a super momma and you got this!
Congrats! You’ll be a wonderful Mom to 4. So exciting!
Sometimes I think the good Lord looks down and says “for those who don’t think I have a sense of humor…watch this one”. LOL
Does it make me bad person that I sit and chuckle at the mean girls working themselves into a frenzy over anything and everything you do? I mean honestly, who in their right mind gets legitimately TICKED that Katie Bower, is having another baby?
Buttholes. That’s who.
Best wishes to you, Jeremy, and your beautiful family!!
Congratulations !! Will you be sharing LJ’s birth story before the baby comes?
Katie,
I already shared my congratulations Sunday, but you and your crew have been on my mind and in my heart a lot since then and I just had to add on to my previous comment. I’m about 17 weeks into my first pregnancy, a baby we prayed for and tried for and very much planned, and I am still FILLED with fear. Am I going to be able to give this precious little boy everything he deserves? Will I be able to go back to work? How the heck are we going to afford daycare? Will I ever sleep again?
I had a hard first trimester, I ended up in the hospital due to a lung infection and I had horrible morning sickness, so I already have a bunch of people in my life assuming that we won’t try for another, or telling us to wait a long time to have to more kids, urging us to reconsider our plans for a big family, etc.. And with every one of these comments, I hurt. Because my husband and I dream of a big, wild family. We’d have 6 kids if we could -. and I’m 30 so waiting a long time for baby no.2 would make our dreams of a large family a lot harder to realize. And I know that I want that family, even though I’m feeling the fear on our first little miracle.
Your beautiful, real, lovable family is a huge source of inspiration to me and my husband. I so appreciate that you let us to share these parts of your life. If it’s hard for me to hear my family and friends questioning my dreams and family plans, I can only imagine how much harder it must be to get that crap from strangers. So THANK YOU, for putting yourself out there and showing dreamers like me that big families are possible and people can do it and do it well, and that you don’t have to perfect to create a loving family. And while I’m at it, THANK YOU for opening up about the fear, it helps so much to know other Mamas who love their babies are scared too. After all as I keep seeing on Pinterest, “If your dreams don’t scare you, they aren’t big enough!”
Congratulations Katie and Family! I send all my best wishes and prayers.
Hey! Congrats!! you know, your sort of an inspiration to me…I have a 5month-old baby and I keep thinking how I could manage another if I got pregnant right know…I would probably cry, as you did…but then I would realise that that are God’s plans….so, If He alows so, then we’re supposed to be able to do it….and then, I look at you and you have 3 kids and one on the way….and you’re rocking it!!! keep doing so, you’re doing it great!
Ahhh!! Congrats KB!!! Fantastic news and thank you for being brave enough to share it with us – haters gonna hate but Katie’s gonna incubate (and give the world another adorable Bower baby)!!!
SorryI’mnotsorry for that dope rhyme. (I should probably finish my coffee before commenting on blogs.)
Congrats on the baby news. Maybe a girl this time? A gal I worked with stopped at five girls trying to give her husband a son. My ex brother in law & his wife never practiced safe sex & always said they’ll take as many children as the good Lord will give them. They had nine children in twelve years & declared bankruptcy twice trying to afford nine children. Apparently the good Lord doesn’t also give out payment plans.
Wow! So exciting! I think its so fascinating that you didn’t know even though this is your 4th (I do not mean that sarcastically at all – I’m truly amazed by your story). I hope you do a follow up post about how different it is preparing for baby when you find out at this stage of the game. Thanks for sharing your life! Congrats again!
Kristina,
I have been in your shoes. I used to tell my pregnant friends “I am so happy for you, but so sad for me.” And that’s OK! If you ever need a shoulder to lean on from someone who knows exactly what you are going through, please reply to this and I will share my email address with you. Here to listen if you need.
I’m totally with Kristi on this. I am desperate for another baby and had a misscarriage over Xmas, just realized this morning my temps mean I’m likely out for another month. I’m heartbroken but stories like yours give me so much faith and inspiration. We never can know how or why things will happen as they do but they just will and it will be fine. Some days are harder than others to keep a level head. But I truly believe joy is contagious. I am so joyful for you. I’ll be bump stalking for the next 18 weeks, for sure. Congratulations!!
“are you concerned about the potential effects of being exposed to harmful chemicals or maybe a bit of alcohol when you didn’t know you were expecting?”
Like the Mojitos on your cruise….
I did have one mojito! I know there is a difference in the alcohol content but my doctor said not to worry about it…so I’m not.
xo – kb
It’s sitting in my drafts folder…I hope to share it on his birthday 🙂
xo – kb
Nope! Jeremy was actually the first to know (it was 1am when I found out) but she was definitely a close second (I sent her a pic of the pregnancy test and she texted me early the next morning so excited!).
xo – kb
It just seems weird to me. I guess that I always think that anybody who has time to analyze what one blogger does has time to change the world.
xo – kb
Congratulations!! I can’t imagine the shock you must have felt finding out you were pregnant and so far along. I have a friend who had a similar situation. Her and her husband hadn’t even completely decided if and when they would have a child and suddenly she found out they are pregnant. I think she said she was already 12 weeks or something like that when she found out. They are thrilled now that it is happening. Will you find out if it is a boy or girl this time?
Hey Congrats! I was 12 wks along with our 4th before I ever figured out I was pregnant–that baby was conceived despite breastfeeding, no period for 18 mo, birth control pills, and limited “opportunities” –in the end we had a precious, healthy baby boy that made 4 kids in under 6 years. Insanity. Now he just turned 6 and it’s been heaven to have them all so close. Someone was always crying the first few years (if it wasn’t me it was the kids), but it gets so much better as they have grown up a little bit. Keep your sense of humor and it will all be fine. Enjoy the chaos!
We don’t know yet…we could technically find out but we just don’t know if we will…everything is just happening really fast.
xo – kb
Well if it wasn’t really infertility and it was just “waiting,” then why call infertility at all? Why even use those words?
Congrats Katie and the Bower family! What a wonderful birthday present. Maybe this also aided into you being so sick on the cruise.
Congratulations!! Your new little one is SO lucky to be joining your family, in this faithful reader’s opinion 😉
Congratulations!! I love that you are considerate of those women out there who struggle with infertility. I have two little boys now but a few years back, my husband and I lost two angels after two years of trying. I went into a deep depression and quit following any bloggers who were fortunate enough to be expectant mothers. God did answer my prayers though and I have been given my incredible little boys. After all of that though, there are days where I am a complete monster-mom and have to remind myself that I asked for all of this! (I actually made some artwork that I hung over my older boy’s bed highlighting 1 Samuel 1:27.)
I had a hysterectomy due to some “lady” complications but I’m pretty jealous that you get to be a mom again. 😉 These next couple of years are going to be a ton of work for you but you’re very blessed. Good luck and don’t be afraid to take some time off from blogging and just enjoy this time with your beautiful babies (even though I’ll be bored without your daily entries!).
P.S. Good job making it through week 22 without knowing! Those were the worst weeks of pregnancy for me and I would have loved to have shortened the misery! 😉 I cannot imagine how overwhelmed you must feel though!
This is getting argumentative and I am kaboshing this discussion. This is getting out of hand and I don’t like it. Pulling the mom card.
xo – kb
I find this post awesome and hilarious. I’m super excited that you are pregnant again and I feel like you always handle pregnancy with a lot of tact and grace. I also think it’s cool of you to share your “it-happened-to-me” moment and can just imagine you feeling the kicks for the first time and taking the test and being all “Waaaaa -hat??”
Anyways, congrats!
Did you find out the gender? Here’s hoping for a girl so you can your pink on!
Congrats Bowers! No greater blessing than a new little one!
Congratulations!! I’m semi jealous, only because of the no-nausea part. I am pregnant (16 weeks) and have Hyperemesis Gravidarum so I WISH I could get to 22 weeks oblivious. BUT, that doesn’t mean I’m any less happy for you!
Congratulations! And wow, that would be such a shock to find out so late! I’m two weeks ahead of you with my second and I already look about due – you look awesome!!! I’m thrilled to hear that the world will be blessed by another Bower baby…and you have my prayers for a healthy remainder of your pregnancy!
Hey Katie,
I’ve been following your blog for over a year now and love all your posts – yours is one of the blogs I skip to first on BlogLovin. I rarely think to comment though but always love what you write and the fun things you do.
I love your honesty here – as someone who tried for almost two years to get pregnant (and finally am, am at 32 weeks now!) I am so glad you are honest about your exciting news – your pregnancy doesn’t mean that someone else can’t get pregnant, those are entirely unrelated facts, even though people love to hate. I love that you’re honest about what is scary or hard about the whole thing too, your faith in this entire thing is evident to hear, as well as your reality checks. Can’t wait to watch this unfold further in your life (and see how the basement is coming along, haha, I love what you’re doing down there).
From Tara in Vancouver, Canada
Holy Cow! I didn’t see that one coming! Obviously you didn’t either! haha! Congratulations, though! Hopefully everything is looking in tip-top shape so far. *fingers crossed* for all of you!!! And, remember, this too shall pass. If it makes you feel any better, when my mom found out she was pregnant with me (youngest of 3), she cried. Then when she found out she was having another girl (only her second), she cried again! But overall I was her easiest. Easiest delivery, easiest kid, etc, etc. I hope nothing but the best for you and yours! xoxox – Lindsay
Congratulation on your newest blessing to your wonderful little family!
Really exciting news! Wow! Ok, so I know one should never wish, but I hope you have a girl. I have three boys and you can fulfill MY dream. Congrats!
I had 4 in 4 years (technically 4 in 3.75) and love it! Youngest just 5 weeks 🙂 In fact I have a post about the pros and cons that went gangbusters so while it might seem crazy you are not alone. HUGE CONGRATS!
Holy bananas.
Happy birthday (late now…) and congrats on Baby Bower Numero Quatro! I can’t imagine being halfway done with a pregnancy and finding it out! Can’t wait to see a gender reveal (if you do one!). 🙂
To find out you are pregnant at 22 weeks is awesome! That is my dream! Skipping the whole first trimester when it’s a secret but you’re crazy tired. I have two kids and I cross my fingers that my next one I will find out and the doc will say “oh, you’re half way done!” That is a blessing in itself. Congrats!!!
Wishing you only the very best, I’m sure it will be a special year and that the love your family shares will grow to encapsulate this new little one when ‘she’ comes 😉
Congratulations! I’m so happy for you. I grew up in a family of four and I loved it.
Congratulations! I had a somewhat similar pregnancy story so I understand the gamut of emotions. Oh, ALL of the EMOTIONS. But take it from someone who has a bit more perspective on it now, God truly will not give you more than you can handle. His plan turned out to be SO MUCH BETTER than mine. You’ll find that out soon, if you haven’t already. We cannot imagine life and our family being any different than they are right now. It is simply how it was meant to be, end of story. And when things get tough around here, all I have to do is imagine how many grandkids I’m going to have one day!!!
I’m thinking back to your “2015 Goals” post and the way you talked about your fitness goal. Something like, “My body isn’t bouncing back like it has in the past…” 😉 What a great reason, right? Thanks for sharing your life with us! I hope the happiness overtakes the fear in your heart.
Congratulations, Katie, and thank you for sharing with us! Take all this love from hundreds of commenters and fill up your heart so there isn’t room for any of the meanness. xo
That is fantastic. I never comment, but always read… but I can only imagine how emotional that was to find out. You are a great mother (I can tell from your blog) its great you can add to the family! Best wishes.
First of all congratulations! I know exactly how you feel. We have three girls and my youngest was ten when I found out I was pregnant. I was not expecting it at all. I cried too. I didn’t know if I had it in me to do it all again Andros it all again. On the other hand I was extremely grateful I could do it again. I had been missing my girls being little. My husband was out of work at the time too, so we were really struggling. We had no clue how we would get anything for a baby. The pregnancy was also the worst. I was sick 24/7. I prayed and prayed that everything would be okay…Turns out it was a boy and when I saw his beautiful face I knew everything would be okay. I couldn’t. Love him more. Time flies and they go up in the blink of an eye. Believe me I have two terns and a tween. They go from thinking you’re the most beautiful, smartest, person in the world, to thinking you don’t know a thing. I know.you’ve probably been told a thousand times but enjoy them while they are small. One day you will miss the drawings on the wall, the clinging, the sleeping in the middle…..Everything is a blessing. Just try not to forget that.
Wow! Congratulations and Happy Birthday!! So happy for you guys! And what a lovely surprise!!! This babe will be out in the world before you know it, being so far along – the countdown is going to fly by. What great news & don’t worry about the haters, haters are going to hate and really these snarky people that feel the need to attack this information, what does that say about them?
Amazing news!
Congratulations you guys!!!
So excited for you! I’m 20 weeks pregnant, so we’ll probably have our babies at the same time since you’re always late, right? 🙂 You look amazing! This is my second, and my tummy is getting some double takes already, as there is some leftover pregnancy weight (from last time) mixed in with the baby weight. Oh well! They’re worth every session with Jillian Michaels. Congratulations!
Congratulations!!! My first will be four in March & my second & third are almost the same ages as yours (was 2 in Nov & 8 months). I love your attitude positive-ness! You are correct, baby will be such a blessing! I would definitely have quite the freak-out period too :). Knowing your boys ages (& thinking of my own), I have to ask if Weston is potty trained (or will be before baby) or will you have three in diapers???
A friend of mine had a similar experience with her first pregnancy, but the difference is she was still wearing a size 2 and rocking a six pack! She and her husband were preventing, and she thought she had a urinary tract infection because of frequent trips to the bathroom. She went to the doctor and they told her she was 4 months pregnant instead. It does happen. Congrats to you and Jeremy on the newest baby Bower. I grew up the third child in a family of nine kids, (7 bros, 1 sis) and it was the best thing ever. Except for the laundry…
Hi Katie, sorry that people haven’t been loving in internet-land =(, but I want to congratulate you for trusting God. And, how blessed to not even deal with morning sickness at all. WOW! I can’t wait to see another beautiful Bower baby.
We will have three in diapers…Weston is not quite ready yet but he is showing signs of getting there…
xo – kb
I wish the internet had a filter for hurtful douchey comments so that they didn’t need to been seen or read.
Anonymity gives people giant balls and it’s not fair.
Congratulations to you and your boys, whether you have a boy or girl they will be loved and blessed and that is an amazing and beautiful thing.
So exciting!
Congratulations! Crazy but… God’s timing is perfect even when we don’t understand it. Most of us will only ever “internet know” you and our opinion only counts for so much (if anything), but you and Jeremy are obviously loving parents surrounded by a supportive family, and in the end that’s all your kids really need. This baby is already loved and like all your kids, will have a good life regardless of whether they were meticulously planned or a complete surprise.
On a serious note, I have a friend who’s gone through a similar situation and you’ve reminded me that I’ve probably judged her a bit harshly in the past, especially when that’s not what she needs…so I appreciate that!
And as much as you make little studly gentlemen, I’m kind of rooting for a girl this time because we all know you would just go crazy. Looking forward to updates!
Eeee! What exciting news! I’m so glad I decided to read my bloglovin blogs after my short hiatus instead of perusing the top few (I’m currently oohing and ahhing over your bathroom). We’re expecting #3 in May, and with a 3 year old, and an *almost* 2 year old, people think we’re nuts. I think we’re thinking smart by having all the years of little sleep and diapers all at once instead of spread out 🙂 Congratulations! I’m looking forward to following along on your journey; I still remember Weston’s announcement! So happy for your family!
Katie, I also had 4 kids under 5…the first 2 were only 15 months apart and the last 2 were 22 months apart. Three boys…and our 4th baby was a girl. People used to stare at us when we went places…serious!! Where others looked at us and thought us crazy for having 4 kids so close together….I felt very blessed with a wonderful, happy, healthy…and sometimes crazy…family! They are now 22, 20, 18, and 16!! I can honestly say that I very much miss those younger years….time truly flies fast. I am so very happy for you and Jeremy and pray many blessings over your family at the start of your “parents of four” journey!!
We got really lucky with our two-yr old boy! He just trained in Dec. & was easier than our older daughter (who we thought did really well). Hopefully Weston will surprise you & catch on quick!
Best of luck! Thanks for sharing your story & the response 🙂
It was so validating to read this blog post because this exact same thing happened to me last year when I had my number 4. I was on the pill (never missed ONE, within 10 minutes every night). I finally took a test after some symptoms and was shocked by the positive. I went into the doctor and he laughed said “yep you’re pregnant… 18 weeks.” It was shocking and validating both (no wonder I stopped losing weight when I was trying hard… and so tired… and tight pants for no reason). It was so funny I couldn’t help but think it was just God’s plan for us. My number 3 was just 19 months and it’s close and crazy but great too. You are a great mama and I am excited for you. As weird as this situation felt for me it was pretty fun to be halfway done pregnant when I started haha. Hugs-
Yeah! You might beat me to the punch!
xo – kb
Holy crapola, congratulations! As someone who has been trying to get pregnant for, oh, 32 months now, I can say that all I felt for you is excitement (ok, and a smidge of jealousy!). That little one is lucky to have you and Jeremy as parents and those adorable boys as brothers. Wishing you a healthy last 18 weeks…. Now is it a boy or girl, or are you going to be surprised?
We haven’t found out yet….we could have but didn’t….it just didn’t feel like the right time.
xo – kb
YAY!!!!!!!!!!!
I just happened to come across your Instagram that led me to your blog this evening. This post brought years to my eyes. What a wonderful gift. Unlike you I let society’s pressure get the best of me and got my tubes tied after three. I was so tired of hearing “Are ALL these kids yours?” “How old are you?” Etc. I regret it everyday. It looks like you have everything under control with 3, 4 will be a breeze:)! Congratulations! The Lord has truly blessed you.
Kelsey
Wowzers, I tune out for a few days and look what happens! Serious congrats – what a joyful surprise. All the best with this pregnancy and I can’t wait to follow along (obviously I won’t be going off radar again lol). We are expecting our first in a few weeks so I can read about all things baby-related all.day.long.
I am beyond horrified that people make such rude and cruel comments to someone who shares her life and feelings with us on a daily basis. If you don’t like our Katie, go read some other blog!
That said, a belated happy birthday … I’ve been cruising and can’t always get posts. And my very best wishes to your whole current and expanding family. You knew there was a reason you got such a huge house…. Keep filling it with love.
Hey Katie,
I have been on your blog before and LOVED everything about it! But when I was on Ana White’s Instagram feed and saw that she had congratulated you…of course being a nosy lady like I am…LOL…I had to come see what all the congratulations was in order for! I think it is WONDERFUL that you are having another baby! The world needs many, many more babies from parents who teach them how to love because the way they are shown love! You and Jeremy will be GREAT with FOUR! I only have two but I would have 15 if my husband would let me!! LOL! The haters are going to hate! You know your place with God and you are doing what is right…who cares what ANYONE else says! I also think it would be the most amazing thing ever to get to find out that you were already 22 weeks along – you got to avoid all the stress of miscarriage and it will fly by from this point on!!! Lucky dog you! This is a time when I think Mother Teresa should have added to her Anyway poem “People may say you only need two babies. Birth more anyway!” I pray for you a beautiful, healthy child, along with an easy painless delivery! Blessings Katie!
That’s amazing!! I am expecting our third (three under three). We were shocked by it as well. And I was so hopping I was further along then I was . I think once you get over the shock it’s great to be so fair along! Skip all the worry.
I’m number 7 of 8 kids and I LOVED growing up with a large family. There was always someone to play with 🙂 The get togethers now are CRAZY and loud, but it’s always a blast. I’m sure it’s scary, but it’s going to be awesome. Congratulations!!
Hi, I have been following your blog since Will was a baby. I fell upon it through Young House Love. It has been so incredible to watch your family grow and your home transform. Even though we don’t know each other, I just want to let you know that you are such an inspiration to me and what I want to create in a family. I wish you guys nothing but the best! It is going to be so much fun to see another baby grow up in your home. Know that I am sending positive, loving thoughts to you all the way from Chicago!
What a blessing! Congratulations to you all!
Katie! What an amazing birthday surprise! I am so happy for you and your family! God’s timing is just perfect 🙂
Congratulations on your growing family!! You are not alone in the “Surprise, your pregnant” boat. I, too, was a nursing momma, as well as taking a contraceptive, and after going to the doctor for exhaustion (I did have 3 young ones)…weight gain….and only a different twist of needing to go to the doctor; I found out that I was 16 weeks pregnant with baby #4. And here I thought my thyroid was acting up. hahaha…joke was on us. Enjoy the rest of your pregnancy. 🙂
Ya’ll are adorable! I love it! And you will be awesome with 4 kiddos. I have three girls: ages 7, 4 and 16 months and my older two girls ask for another baby all the time!! (No plans for that, but I love that they want it!) Congratulations!!
Seriously @ Heather S.! You don’t know them personally and/or their situation so how dare you say she’s straight up lying. It is VERY possible for someone to not know they are pregnant until this late OR at all….. Every person is different and every pregnancy is different, there is no time frame as to when a person HAS to find out they’re pregnant by.
Do you just troll on this blog to make snarky comments, Dana? Quite frankly it’s NONE of your business if/when she finds out, if she’s paid extra in the past, if she has another one after this one is 4 months old….. Not your life! AND….just because she has supposedly “paid extra,” which she is saying she hasn’t, how does that equate to it being a 4th boy?!? Makes perfect sense to me……
CONGRATS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! You will do fine since you have a supportive husband! I hear ya on wanting to get things done ASAP though! Take time to rest as well though! 🙂
Congrats!
I looked you up on instagram recently and scrolled through some pics and was like, “whoa! no way.” I’ve read your blog casually for a few years and every once in a while I look you up again – eager to see how those cute boys have grown and see whatever amazing project you’re up to. When I saw the instagram post about your birthday recap – I rushed over to your blog and scrolled through to find this post. So first, and foremost, congrats! You seem great – like someone who I would instantly “click” with in person. And I can sense your sensitivity – so try to filter out those negative comments. God created this baby for you!! You and Jeremy will do great. No, it’s not always easy but, what abundant blessings to have 4 babes! You’ll be great. I’m pulling for you. xoxo.
Aww thank you Victoria!
xo – kb
Congratulations! That’s such awesome news! And I just wanna say… you shouldn’t have to worry about offending people who’ve been trying for a while. I know everyone’s different, but I can say for myself that we’ve been trying for our second bambino for about 20 months now… And it’s hard, but I just can’t imagine not being happy for someone else and their success. A baby is such GREAT news no matter how ya slice it. And if people have a problem, that’s totally not on you. Flaunt that stuff, girl! I’ll definitely be reading along. 🙂
Wow, what a surprise! I think it’s so funny that you took a test because you felt the baby kicking – that would be wild! I’m expecting my fourth baby in September, and my oldest will be four and a half when this baby comes – so yeah, I can understand being nervous about having so many kids close together! But I keep thinking it will be so much fun for them when they are older, to be close in age – and we’ll figure it out, just like we figured out three. 🙂
I’m 18 weeks with #2, our other babe is 4 – I’ve been accused of having them “too far apart”, “being too old” (I’m 31!) so believe me – people will comment regardless of the circumstances! People can be so rude.
For us, timing was everything – while some families really make it work having their kids close together (the “get it all done at once” theory) we chose to wait for #2 for a variety of reasons – careers, availability, finances, school – it’s different for EVERYONE, and shame on anyone who judges you!
Katie, thank you so much for your candor and honesty. I am also mother to 3 boys (5, 3, 1) and we just found out about our little surprise this week. I have to admit, I’ve also struggled to find the joy through the fear – fear of how the heck are we supposed to do this, fear of what will everyone think, especially since we declared our third to be our last. I’ve prayed that God would give me His heart towards this gift and equip me with the grace to survive another pregnancy and postpartum journey. I can’t say that I’m there yet, but reading your post really encouraged me and helped me feel like I’m not a monster. Thank you for your transparency. You are more of a blessing than you know.
Oh Patty! Congratulations. I know that not many people say that when you get to FOUR but truly it is such a wonderful beautiful thing! My sweet Maxi has been just the best surprise and seeing how he brings love and joy to others is truly a gift. I know your little one will do that same thing! You can do this mama.
xo – kb