Charlotte is now six weeks old and is just a charmer. She is getting better at smiling and cooing and I find that she has her father's temperament (thank goodness!). As I meet and talk to other moms I am finding out indeed what a good baby she is. She loves parties, though she gets pretty sleepy being held all the time!
She is still eating in 2.5-3 hour intervals day and night. Except yesterday when I suspect the six week growth spurt is what made her go only 2 hours at night! No sleep for mommy. I wake up in the morning so darn tired and I stumble down to her room and am often greeted by a gummy smile that makes morning more bearable. She wakes at 9 am every day, regardless of her last feeding. I'm still not sure when to put her down for the night...it is often around 10 pm and I'd like it to be a little sooner. She tends to have long stretches of awake and long stretches of sleep as opposed to sleep/wake/sleep/wake for short bits.
The cats still don't seem to realize that Charlotte is a real person, they pretty much ignore her. She is becoming aware of them, though and I can see her watching them sometimes. Especially Hobbes since he likes to join us for feeding. I end up with a boppy, a baby, and stupid cat on my lap. At least it is warm.
I'm happy being at home, though I am so thankful for having Jen around to go to the mall and breastfeeding group with. Too many days at home all day is boring no matter how much stuff needs to be done. i don't want to go back to work, but I'm lucky that I still have about 7 weeks left at home (that's longer than some mom's get all together!). We found day care. Her name is Linda and she lives in east grand rapids on the way to work for Daddy. She has been doing daycare for 30 years and has 5 grown kids of her own. There are 3 other kids in the daycare and they seem to be quite nice! We'll probably visit a couple of times before I have to bring her there for all day.
Thursday, December 21, 2006
Tuesday, December 05, 2006
David and Goliath
My husband is obsessed with getting that damn squirrel (goliath) out of the attic. He is apparently getting hungry since I went into the attic to get pre-pregnancy clothes and it appears that he found my stash of marzipan. Clearly a North American squirrel, he cared not for the almond filling and simply ate the chocolate off the outside of it. Further evidence of his presence was the squirrel pee I had the misfortune of stepping in. Then I went in again and found my secret stash of ritter sport had also been broken into.
David, Meanwhile, got a small catch and release cage, but the bugger kept setting it off without being trapped. We now have a giant one (I think it might catch a hippo) with the tempting bait of peanut butter. I hope I don't have any more secret sweets stashes for him to find.
In other news, I'm slowly losing my mind as a stay-at-home mom. I feel terribly guilty about my feelings, but I can't help but feel so trapped. I feel like that character in greek mythology who had his liver eaten out by a bird every day, only for it to grow back again to have the same thing repeated the next day. I change her diaper only to have her pee or poop right onto my hand as I'm wiping her bum and then when I finally get her into a clean one, it is only to know we'll go through the same ordeal in about two hours more. When she sleeps during the day I worry that she won't sleep at night. When she's up during the day, I worry that she isn't ever going to get to sleep. When I'm most tired and ready for bed, she's super jazzed up and won't sleep. When she surprised me and goes down early, I can't sleep! When I try to nap I can't sleep and when I'm dog tired, she wants to eat.
Don't get me wrong...I love her dearly and think she's just the cutest darn thing ever. But it really wears on you. This trapped feeling of living life in 2.5 hour increments and being at the mercy of the most unpredictable thing ever. Tonight Dave went to Lowe's and I cried because after he left I realized that it sounded really fun to get out of the house and go. So I gave Charlotte a bath and made the water too hot I guess and she screamed bloody murder. Then after we were done and she was being dried off, she spit up all over her clean self and I devolved into another set of tears. I'm also pretty sure I'm not eating enough. Which is funny. I can't say I haven't wanted to lose that baby weight (not out of vanity, just want to have clothes that fit). I think I need to eat more, and keep it healthy which is hard.
I now know that parenting is just something you have to go through to understand (kind of like pregnancy). Even the best babies are hard to take care of. The constancy of putting another first is very wearing. A month without a full nights sleep sucks. I have no patience for not knowing what she really needs or wants when she cries.
But...I think she's starting to smile and I love that. She's fun to dress up. She is usually really good and spends most of the day in an agreeable state. I think she's starting to recognize me and she loves me because I feed her.
David, Meanwhile, got a small catch and release cage, but the bugger kept setting it off without being trapped. We now have a giant one (I think it might catch a hippo) with the tempting bait of peanut butter. I hope I don't have any more secret sweets stashes for him to find.
In other news, I'm slowly losing my mind as a stay-at-home mom. I feel terribly guilty about my feelings, but I can't help but feel so trapped. I feel like that character in greek mythology who had his liver eaten out by a bird every day, only for it to grow back again to have the same thing repeated the next day. I change her diaper only to have her pee or poop right onto my hand as I'm wiping her bum and then when I finally get her into a clean one, it is only to know we'll go through the same ordeal in about two hours more. When she sleeps during the day I worry that she won't sleep at night. When she's up during the day, I worry that she isn't ever going to get to sleep. When I'm most tired and ready for bed, she's super jazzed up and won't sleep. When she surprised me and goes down early, I can't sleep! When I try to nap I can't sleep and when I'm dog tired, she wants to eat.
Don't get me wrong...I love her dearly and think she's just the cutest darn thing ever. But it really wears on you. This trapped feeling of living life in 2.5 hour increments and being at the mercy of the most unpredictable thing ever. Tonight Dave went to Lowe's and I cried because after he left I realized that it sounded really fun to get out of the house and go. So I gave Charlotte a bath and made the water too hot I guess and she screamed bloody murder. Then after we were done and she was being dried off, she spit up all over her clean self and I devolved into another set of tears. I'm also pretty sure I'm not eating enough. Which is funny. I can't say I haven't wanted to lose that baby weight (not out of vanity, just want to have clothes that fit). I think I need to eat more, and keep it healthy which is hard.
I now know that parenting is just something you have to go through to understand (kind of like pregnancy). Even the best babies are hard to take care of. The constancy of putting another first is very wearing. A month without a full nights sleep sucks. I have no patience for not knowing what she really needs or wants when she cries.
But...I think she's starting to smile and I love that. She's fun to dress up. She is usually really good and spends most of the day in an agreeable state. I think she's starting to recognize me and she loves me because I feed her.
Friday, December 01, 2006
A very good birthday
Yesterday was the first day Charlotte and I were on our own; Daddy went back to work on his birthday. We had a good, and a busy, day. We went to the bf group at 12:30 and then to the mall with Jen. I was able to borrow a stroller frame that fits the baby car seat into it from Jenny Cleveland. It was fun! We were shopping for a christmas present for Daddy. We got a grill remote that alarms when your food reaches temperature. Unfortunately, daddy didn't actually want that. Even when I showed him it listed on his list in his own writing. But that's okay. It was the thought that counted.
Then we went out to eat. Our first outing since the baby! We went to Outback and I had a great time! A steak, cheese fries, and even a big beer. The baby slept. She was in the car seat pretty much all day, so she slept pretty much all day. But that's okay.
Then we went to the mall to return the bad gift and we went to Victoria's secret to get free underwear and we stopped at the jewelry store to look into upgrading my wedding rings. I think I'll take a Dave birthday like this every year!
In other news, we had a lovely visit with Dave and Susan on Wednesday afternoon and we are very much looking forward to the upcoming THanksmas holiday. It took me a couple of days to recover from the sickness. I can hardly believe how tired I was. Even going DOWN the stairs was tough. It helped me lose weight, though. I supposedly only have 10 pounds left to lose. I put on "regular" jeans today and they are tight! Of course, I haven't worn anything that didn't have spandex in the top in months. I don't remember what regular clothes feel like. I also am sad to report that I have a "muffin top". THis is the fat that hangs over the top of your jeans. I have NEVER had that before. I'm not too upset, I mean, it has been almost a month and I'll give myself at least 6 months to get back near to "normal". I just hope I can be like before...such a flat, nice tummy. I don't even care so much about stretch marks. I have a few, but they don't really seem bad.
Then we went out to eat. Our first outing since the baby! We went to Outback and I had a great time! A steak, cheese fries, and even a big beer. The baby slept. She was in the car seat pretty much all day, so she slept pretty much all day. But that's okay.
Then we went to the mall to return the bad gift and we went to Victoria's secret to get free underwear and we stopped at the jewelry store to look into upgrading my wedding rings. I think I'll take a Dave birthday like this every year!
In other news, we had a lovely visit with Dave and Susan on Wednesday afternoon and we are very much looking forward to the upcoming THanksmas holiday. It took me a couple of days to recover from the sickness. I can hardly believe how tired I was. Even going DOWN the stairs was tough. It helped me lose weight, though. I supposedly only have 10 pounds left to lose. I put on "regular" jeans today and they are tight! Of course, I haven't worn anything that didn't have spandex in the top in months. I don't remember what regular clothes feel like. I also am sad to report that I have a "muffin top". THis is the fat that hangs over the top of your jeans. I have NEVER had that before. I'm not too upset, I mean, it has been almost a month and I'll give myself at least 6 months to get back near to "normal". I just hope I can be like before...such a flat, nice tummy. I don't even care so much about stretch marks. I have a few, but they don't really seem bad.
Monday, November 27, 2006
Sick and Tired
So last night I was giving Dave the middle of the night feeding; this is usually around 3 to 5 am. That way I'd be able to sleep from about midnight hopefully until about 6 or 7. But at 3:00 I woke up and had an upset stomach. SO I told Dave, never mind, I'd just feed her at 3:30 since I was awake anyway. Dave was a trooper and he got up with me anyway. I told him I didn't feel well, almost like I was going to throw up. I used the bathroom and there was some scary diarrhea. Remember, I'm still taking a stool softener, so that didn't help anything.But I fed her and when I was done went back to bed.
It's funny, when you're sick how at first you think "I don't want to be sick, I hope I don't throw up", then you feel awful and think, "maybe I"ll feel better if I throw up", then it turns into "I need to throw up, I feel so terrible. I couldn't sleep and at 4:30 got up and puked. I was glad for it by then because I felt so yucky. The diarrhea continued and the puking and I was getting really worried about whether or not I should feed Charlotte. It is one thing for me to be sick and miserable, but my tiny 3 week old baby?? Dave again got up with me for the 5:30 feeding and we called the pediatrician to ask if I should still breastfeed. She said, yes, it was okay, but make sure wash my hands and nipples because the sickness won't go through the breastmilk, but it will go still be transmitted through spit and the usualy methods.
I'm used to getting little sleep, but last night, I got NONE! I was up to vomit or poop or feed, or all three, all night long. I had a terrible fever, but couldn't keep anything down, including Ibuprofen. I had Dave make some jello and I kept breastfeeding since I was awake and couldn't sleep. I fed her around 11:30 and asked Dave to use the bottle on the next feeding so that I could rest. I finally had some jello at about 1:30 and kept it down so I took some ibuprofen and my fever broke. I woke up at 2:50 drenched in sweat, I was in bed in my flannel jammies and my robe, just shivering until then. SO I got up to wash the vomit out of my hair and wash the sweat off, and I feel much better now.
Nothing like sickness helps you to appreciate health! I feel so weak since I usually drink about 4 liters of water a day, and today I had a glass or two and a bowl of jello. I ate some soup at 3 and I"m working on replenishing my fluids.
Little Charlotte is blessedly unaffected by whatever this sickness was. But I was totally out of commission. I had this list of things I wanted to do today (including get a christmas tree) but I'll be happy to just keep making it through the day without puking more. I'm so lucky Dave was already home today...I don't think I could've taken care of Charlotte and me in that condition.
Do yourself a favor and just stop and feel thankful for your health- whether you're tired or have a cold, or whatever, at least you aren't emptying the entire contents of your body into the toilet. That is something to be thankful for.
It's funny, when you're sick how at first you think "I don't want to be sick, I hope I don't throw up", then you feel awful and think, "maybe I"ll feel better if I throw up", then it turns into "I need to throw up, I feel so terrible. I couldn't sleep and at 4:30 got up and puked. I was glad for it by then because I felt so yucky. The diarrhea continued and the puking and I was getting really worried about whether or not I should feed Charlotte. It is one thing for me to be sick and miserable, but my tiny 3 week old baby?? Dave again got up with me for the 5:30 feeding and we called the pediatrician to ask if I should still breastfeed. She said, yes, it was okay, but make sure wash my hands and nipples because the sickness won't go through the breastmilk, but it will go still be transmitted through spit and the usualy methods.
I'm used to getting little sleep, but last night, I got NONE! I was up to vomit or poop or feed, or all three, all night long. I had a terrible fever, but couldn't keep anything down, including Ibuprofen. I had Dave make some jello and I kept breastfeeding since I was awake and couldn't sleep. I fed her around 11:30 and asked Dave to use the bottle on the next feeding so that I could rest. I finally had some jello at about 1:30 and kept it down so I took some ibuprofen and my fever broke. I woke up at 2:50 drenched in sweat, I was in bed in my flannel jammies and my robe, just shivering until then. SO I got up to wash the vomit out of my hair and wash the sweat off, and I feel much better now.
Nothing like sickness helps you to appreciate health! I feel so weak since I usually drink about 4 liters of water a day, and today I had a glass or two and a bowl of jello. I ate some soup at 3 and I"m working on replenishing my fluids.
Little Charlotte is blessedly unaffected by whatever this sickness was. But I was totally out of commission. I had this list of things I wanted to do today (including get a christmas tree) but I'll be happy to just keep making it through the day without puking more. I'm so lucky Dave was already home today...I don't think I could've taken care of Charlotte and me in that condition.
Do yourself a favor and just stop and feel thankful for your health- whether you're tired or have a cold, or whatever, at least you aren't emptying the entire contents of your body into the toilet. That is something to be thankful for.
Sunday, November 26, 2006
T + 3 weeks
We are now three weeks out from Charlotte's birth. I feel pretty lucky to have Dave home for three weeks, but I think I'm getting spoiled! Things are going pretty well, here is an update:
Breasts: doing well, not bleeding or chapped, though it hurts when she initially latches on.
"Bottom": Good, I'm not afraid of pooping any more.
Sleep: Better, getting about two hours at a time in three shifts at night. Try to take naps, but still struggle to do more than an hour at a time. Had Dave give her a bottle this morning in a vain effort to get more sleep, but the timing was bad since he got the 8 o'clock feeding, and it was light and I woke up anyway...
House: Not clean, but not a disaster. Still so thankful to Mom for cleaning my bathrooms. Seriously, she cleaned (including mopping the floor) both bathrooms.
School: Who cares! :-)
Charlotte: Freakin' adorable!! Starting to look more like...a person and less like a generic baby. Hair is getting longer, but still not curling like I want. She is pretty good and stays awake for long stretches, but sometimes I think too long....she gets a little crabby because I think she's fighting sleep. Her most crabby period occurs right when I'm trying to go to bed, somewhere between 9 and 11 pm. She is almost always fussy then. But the good news is that the pacifier seems to work pretty well when we need it.
So my days still consist of pretty much feedding the baby, feeding myself, and then waiting to feed the baby. Oh, and trying to nap and getting pissed off when I think I've slept for three hours and then look at the clock and it's been 45 minutes.
I think I'm going to try to have a "goal" or a trip to do every day. That way I have something to look forward to. Maybe just the bf (breastfeeding) group, or a trip to the store or mall, or maybe even cleaning something here at home!
I have to give props to my husband for doing such a great job. He's not perfect, but I guess nobody can read my mind exactly :-) Good old Dave is taking care of stuff that needs taking care of around the house (though it takes him away from me a little), he is on laundry duty, dutifully dousing dirty diapers and all other laundry, and he watches the baby when I ask. THis last task is usually letting her lay on the couch next to him as he is on the computer, but it works. ONe of hte most important things he does is tells me to chill out. This is essential. And it might not seem like I appreciate it, but I do.
THanksgiving was nice. On "thanksgiving eve" we went to Muskegon to my cousin's house for Grandma's 87th birthday. It was her first time seeing the baby and I think it is extra special since I named her after Grandma's mother, Charlotte Jane Williams. It was a good time, there were lots of people to show off the baby to. (how do I nod end that sentence with preposition? Lots of people to whom to show off the baby?). ANyway, on Thanksgiving I went back to Muskegon to Mom's and she did a bang-up job on the dinner! Chip brought some great brussell sprouts with a white sauce and I made some tasty pumpkin pies. Mom did the rest (thanks, mom). We ate, I napped (albeit a short one), we hung out, ate again, and got home in time for Dave's mom (who visited this weekend) to watch Grey's Anatomy.
Dave goes back to work on THursday, but before then, I'd like to get a Christmas tree and allow him the joy of middle of the night feedings for a few days. THen Charlotte and I will be on our own until February when (gasp!) I have to go back to work. Boo.
Breasts: doing well, not bleeding or chapped, though it hurts when she initially latches on.
"Bottom": Good, I'm not afraid of pooping any more.
Sleep: Better, getting about two hours at a time in three shifts at night. Try to take naps, but still struggle to do more than an hour at a time. Had Dave give her a bottle this morning in a vain effort to get more sleep, but the timing was bad since he got the 8 o'clock feeding, and it was light and I woke up anyway...
House: Not clean, but not a disaster. Still so thankful to Mom for cleaning my bathrooms. Seriously, she cleaned (including mopping the floor) both bathrooms.
School: Who cares! :-)
Charlotte: Freakin' adorable!! Starting to look more like...a person and less like a generic baby. Hair is getting longer, but still not curling like I want. She is pretty good and stays awake for long stretches, but sometimes I think too long....she gets a little crabby because I think she's fighting sleep. Her most crabby period occurs right when I'm trying to go to bed, somewhere between 9 and 11 pm. She is almost always fussy then. But the good news is that the pacifier seems to work pretty well when we need it.
So my days still consist of pretty much feedding the baby, feeding myself, and then waiting to feed the baby. Oh, and trying to nap and getting pissed off when I think I've slept for three hours and then look at the clock and it's been 45 minutes.
I think I'm going to try to have a "goal" or a trip to do every day. That way I have something to look forward to. Maybe just the bf (breastfeeding) group, or a trip to the store or mall, or maybe even cleaning something here at home!
I have to give props to my husband for doing such a great job. He's not perfect, but I guess nobody can read my mind exactly :-) Good old Dave is taking care of stuff that needs taking care of around the house (though it takes him away from me a little), he is on laundry duty, dutifully dousing dirty diapers and all other laundry, and he watches the baby when I ask. THis last task is usually letting her lay on the couch next to him as he is on the computer, but it works. ONe of hte most important things he does is tells me to chill out. This is essential. And it might not seem like I appreciate it, but I do.
THanksgiving was nice. On "thanksgiving eve" we went to Muskegon to my cousin's house for Grandma's 87th birthday. It was her first time seeing the baby and I think it is extra special since I named her after Grandma's mother, Charlotte Jane Williams. It was a good time, there were lots of people to show off the baby to. (how do I nod end that sentence with preposition? Lots of people to whom to show off the baby?). ANyway, on Thanksgiving I went back to Muskegon to Mom's and she did a bang-up job on the dinner! Chip brought some great brussell sprouts with a white sauce and I made some tasty pumpkin pies. Mom did the rest (thanks, mom). We ate, I napped (albeit a short one), we hung out, ate again, and got home in time for Dave's mom (who visited this weekend) to watch Grey's Anatomy.
Dave goes back to work on THursday, but before then, I'd like to get a Christmas tree and allow him the joy of middle of the night feedings for a few days. THen Charlotte and I will be on our own until February when (gasp!) I have to go back to work. Boo.
Sunday, November 19, 2006
Two weeks old today!
Wow, the last two weeks have been amazing....ly hard!! YOu take all these classes, and read books, and talk to people for 9 months to prepare for labor. Then it is done in about a day, and before you know it, you're sent home with a new baby and no clue about what to do! If you're the laid-back type, you probably don't have a problem with this. But I'm not. I've spent every spare moment (though there aren't many) on the internet or with my nose in a book trying to figure out what "normal" is and what I"m supposed to do.
Being a mother apparently comes with a Ginormous guilty conscience and incredible amounts of self doubt. Add this to the serious lack of sleep and you get insanity. I know everyone talks about the lack of sleep, but what I've experienced so far simple can't be conveyed unless by actual experience.
At first, you're supposed to "demand-feed" your baby. Feed her when she wants to eat. Should be about 8 to 12 times in 24 hours, or every 2 or 3 hours. Fine. But what about when she wants more than that? The breastfeeding people (this isn't really a club, but an assortment of support group and lactation therapists) tell you, yes, some babies want to eat almost every hour. That is normal for some babies. It is called "cluster feeding" and it is really hard, but still okay.
Charlotte doesn't always want to eat every hour, usually it just happens at night. I'd go to bed at 9:30, toss and turn for an hour even though I'm exhausted my mind is racing and can't sleep til 10:30. Then Dave brings her up at 11:30 for feeding. This lasts an hour or so. I put her back down (12:30). Then she's up at 1:30 or 2:00. Feed for an hour, put her down at 3:00. She's up at 3:30, Oh, I guess she's not done. So I feed another 1/2 or so more. Fine, put her down at 4:00. She's up at 5:00. I ask Dave to settle her, I just fed her 1.5 hours worth, she can't be hungry. But somehow she is. I feed again, maybe just 30 minutes this time, and put her down at 5:30 and she sleeps til 7:00. Then she's up again for feeding. I get done at 7:45 and head back to bed, but she's up again at 9:00 and by that time, I'm up for the day, or I"m supposed to be.
Imagine this scenario for about 14 days. During the day I nap if I can, but usually can't get more than 1.5 hours at a stretch.
This is until yesterday. Dave went to DiGennaro's to brew and I was alone for the first time. I had a crummy (usual) night and woke up at 10:30 ish. I showered and ate lunch. Fed her at 11:00. Tried to nap from 12:30 to 1:30, no can do. Mind racing.
Jen calls and I'm in tears, I just can't take any more!! She says I should come over, and I decide to because I can't even think. Dave comes to get me (I still can't drive and really shouldn't in that state anyway). I'm balling and I get to Jen's balling and basically having a melt-down. I feed Charlotte and Jen gives me a pair of ear plugs and tells me to nap on her bed, she'll take the baby. I say it won't matter because she'll want to eat in 30 minutes anyway. But I lay down.
Two hours later, they get me. I got two hours of sleep! IN a row!! but have a royal headache from all the crying. Jen says that Charlotte sucked on Jen's finger for about an hour!! Huh, maybe she doesn't actually want to feed all the time, maybe she just needs a pacifier. Now, how come I never even thought of that?? Well, I didn't want to use a pacifier...nipple confusion. If an infant is trying to nurse and has a plastic nipple, she sometimes can't get the right suck for nursing.
Screw nipple confusion! Get me a pacifier! Since I woke up from that nap, where Charlotte was actually away from me long enough to work up a good appetite, which meant she ate well and then followed it by sleeping well, she has been a new baby.
Last night I fed her at 9:30, 1 am, 4 am, and 7 am. And, she only ate for about 30 minutes each time. I got about 10 hours of sleep. NOt in a row, of course, which does make a difference. But wow. ANd then today, the same thing. She's eating about every 2.5 to 3 hours. And she's been pretty good.
Jen and I went to the store and got pacifiers last night, but I haven't had to use it much. She doesn't seem to really like it, but then again, putting it in her mouth if she is actually hungry isn't going to work anyway. I did try it right after I fed her and put her down and she fussed a little. I put it in and sat down to write thank you's and she was quiet and so I thought, great, she loves it, but when I looked, she spat it out and was just sleeping. That is fine! I just want her to be quiet when necessary and wait a good amount of time for a feeding so that the feeding if full, not a "snack".
Oh, and infants are incredibly noisy!! They grunt and gurgle and sometimes cry out, then are quiet. They breathe loud and fast sometimes, and just when you want them to be quiet, they are and then you're up to check that they are still breathing!! I don't know how much longer she'll stay in the bassinett in our room, we might need to move her to the nursery so I can sleep a little better.
I feel better today, but one night of "better" sleep isn't exactly a cure-all. I"m still exhausted, but today I managed to clean off my desk, clean the kitchen, write a few thank-you's and chat with a few friends. If this keeps up, I'll be so happy...I just couldn't take anymore of the "night monster". But each night, I worry when the sun goes down. I dread the night because it was such hell. Maybe in a few days if this new schedule works out, the night won't seem so daunting.
God bless every mom. Tell your mom you love her and you're grateful.
Being a mother apparently comes with a Ginormous guilty conscience and incredible amounts of self doubt. Add this to the serious lack of sleep and you get insanity. I know everyone talks about the lack of sleep, but what I've experienced so far simple can't be conveyed unless by actual experience.
At first, you're supposed to "demand-feed" your baby. Feed her when she wants to eat. Should be about 8 to 12 times in 24 hours, or every 2 or 3 hours. Fine. But what about when she wants more than that? The breastfeeding people (this isn't really a club, but an assortment of support group and lactation therapists) tell you, yes, some babies want to eat almost every hour. That is normal for some babies. It is called "cluster feeding" and it is really hard, but still okay.
Charlotte doesn't always want to eat every hour, usually it just happens at night. I'd go to bed at 9:30, toss and turn for an hour even though I'm exhausted my mind is racing and can't sleep til 10:30. Then Dave brings her up at 11:30 for feeding. This lasts an hour or so. I put her back down (12:30). Then she's up at 1:30 or 2:00. Feed for an hour, put her down at 3:00. She's up at 3:30, Oh, I guess she's not done. So I feed another 1/2 or so more. Fine, put her down at 4:00. She's up at 5:00. I ask Dave to settle her, I just fed her 1.5 hours worth, she can't be hungry. But somehow she is. I feed again, maybe just 30 minutes this time, and put her down at 5:30 and she sleeps til 7:00. Then she's up again for feeding. I get done at 7:45 and head back to bed, but she's up again at 9:00 and by that time, I'm up for the day, or I"m supposed to be.
Imagine this scenario for about 14 days. During the day I nap if I can, but usually can't get more than 1.5 hours at a stretch.
This is until yesterday. Dave went to DiGennaro's to brew and I was alone for the first time. I had a crummy (usual) night and woke up at 10:30 ish. I showered and ate lunch. Fed her at 11:00. Tried to nap from 12:30 to 1:30, no can do. Mind racing.
Jen calls and I'm in tears, I just can't take any more!! She says I should come over, and I decide to because I can't even think. Dave comes to get me (I still can't drive and really shouldn't in that state anyway). I'm balling and I get to Jen's balling and basically having a melt-down. I feed Charlotte and Jen gives me a pair of ear plugs and tells me to nap on her bed, she'll take the baby. I say it won't matter because she'll want to eat in 30 minutes anyway. But I lay down.
Two hours later, they get me. I got two hours of sleep! IN a row!! but have a royal headache from all the crying. Jen says that Charlotte sucked on Jen's finger for about an hour!! Huh, maybe she doesn't actually want to feed all the time, maybe she just needs a pacifier. Now, how come I never even thought of that?? Well, I didn't want to use a pacifier...nipple confusion. If an infant is trying to nurse and has a plastic nipple, she sometimes can't get the right suck for nursing.
Screw nipple confusion! Get me a pacifier! Since I woke up from that nap, where Charlotte was actually away from me long enough to work up a good appetite, which meant she ate well and then followed it by sleeping well, she has been a new baby.
Last night I fed her at 9:30, 1 am, 4 am, and 7 am. And, she only ate for about 30 minutes each time. I got about 10 hours of sleep. NOt in a row, of course, which does make a difference. But wow. ANd then today, the same thing. She's eating about every 2.5 to 3 hours. And she's been pretty good.
Jen and I went to the store and got pacifiers last night, but I haven't had to use it much. She doesn't seem to really like it, but then again, putting it in her mouth if she is actually hungry isn't going to work anyway. I did try it right after I fed her and put her down and she fussed a little. I put it in and sat down to write thank you's and she was quiet and so I thought, great, she loves it, but when I looked, she spat it out and was just sleeping. That is fine! I just want her to be quiet when necessary and wait a good amount of time for a feeding so that the feeding if full, not a "snack".
Oh, and infants are incredibly noisy!! They grunt and gurgle and sometimes cry out, then are quiet. They breathe loud and fast sometimes, and just when you want them to be quiet, they are and then you're up to check that they are still breathing!! I don't know how much longer she'll stay in the bassinett in our room, we might need to move her to the nursery so I can sleep a little better.
I feel better today, but one night of "better" sleep isn't exactly a cure-all. I"m still exhausted, but today I managed to clean off my desk, clean the kitchen, write a few thank-you's and chat with a few friends. If this keeps up, I'll be so happy...I just couldn't take anymore of the "night monster". But each night, I worry when the sun goes down. I dread the night because it was such hell. Maybe in a few days if this new schedule works out, the night won't seem so daunting.
God bless every mom. Tell your mom you love her and you're grateful.
Wednesday, November 08, 2006
My baby story- the arrival of Charlotte Jane
Warning: this post contains information that may be more than you wanted to know.
Okay, I've got lots to take care of and do (especially sleep) but I wanted to get this down before I forget the details.
First, Charlotte was about a week earlier than I thought she'd be, and about two weeks earlier than my doctor thought. So I planned to take care of all kinds of details on Sunday and just relax this week and prepare for the baby. Stuff I had to do included: Pack hosptial bag, get changing table and diaper pails set up, buy stuff at target/babies r us, clean the house, buy thank you notes, etc.
Instead, I chose to use my last free day at "teach a friend to homebrew day", which was nice and fun. It was a long day, we were at Hoffmaster State park about 11 am and ended in a parking lot a few miles away about 6 or 7 pm (long story for another day there). I had chili and brats. That part is important later.
That night, I thought a bath would be nice, but when I got in to soak, my giant belly just stuck right out of the water so it wasn't as good as I'd hoped. I did take the chipped nail polish off my toes and repainted them (as well as I could reach) and I managed to shave my legs, which I was happy about later.
Dave and I started a movie and at 9:30, which is pretty lame, decided we were both exhausted and to just go to bed. I thought about how Jen told me, "any night you don't get sleep and feel crummy, you could go into labor the next day so pamper yourself and don't get too tired". But I thought I was safe for about a week.
At about 11 pm I started my usual waking up alot routine of discomfort, but it was different. I felt sort of sick. No contraction, not really nauseous, just not right. ANd I was waking up 20 to 35 minutes or so. I had crazy dreams that someone was in labor (yeah, I didn't think it was me) and then I felt like I wet the bed, but not becuase it wasn't a trickle and it wasn't under my control, it was a whoosh. so I staggered/dripped to the bathroom and it just kept coming. It was 3 am. I went downstairs and called Dr. Murphy and I was on the phone when Dave actually woke up (he sleeps like the dead) and he figured out what was happening. The doctor told me to go to the hospital and I asked if it was alright if it took a little while since I wasn't even packed yet. He said it sounded like I wasn't having real contractions so it was okay. Dave got in the shower and I packed (thought I forgot all kinds of stuff) and we got to the hospital about 4 am. We checked in and they put us in triage to make sure I was in labor or needed to be there (water breaking was a good reason, even if it is premature). I was feeling mild contractions that were about 5 minutes apart, but very tolerable. I breathed throught them alright and thought I was doing great. I was not dilated at all :-( but about 90% effaced.
I was transferred to a labor and delivery room at about 5 am and contractions continued and got stronger. Dave rested on the couch and I on the bed and I listened to my relaxation tapes and relaxed (or tried to) until about 6:20. The contractions were different than I thought they'd feel. I felt alot like I was taking a tough poop, there was loads of pressure on my butt and back. The abdomen wasn't doing much, except down really low. I was sure I was making tons of progress since the contractions were getting really strong. I begged them to check me. 1 cm. "that's it?!" I said. A little frustrating.
This basic pattern continued, gradually getting stronger. The new nurse came on at 7 am and I got in the tub at about 7:20. Pretty much the same experience as before with my tummy being out and cold. When I was on my side it was much more painful, so I didn't do that. David helped me as much as he could, but there was little he could do. After that for a while, they checked my dilation again. No progress. a cm, maybe plus a little, but not really. The nurse said that she noticed I wanted to have as natural a birth as possible (avoing pain killers) and I said that I was starting to change my mind, maybe if I was just at 1 cm. and it was already this bad.
It was weird because I knew I was having these really hard contractions and I think they were 2 to 4 minutes apart, which is pretty close and steady for no progress to happen. But my back was getting worse and worse. The pain was getting really tough to deal with. My body was having a hard time with it. Before the contractions, I'd start just shaking, pretty hard, then it'd go into the contraction. The shaking was scary becasue I knew it was coming! I'd wave Dave over and then when he tried to take my hand I'd push him away (I didn't want to crush his hand). Dave was calling folks to say what was going on and Andy called and suggested he rub my back. That helped. The nurse had me get into hands and knees position, but that was like being on my side- more painful!
This whole time, every contraction, more water is letting loose. I didn't know that the placenta continued making amniotic fluid. I felt like I was in a swamp! The nurse kept changing the pad and blankets and eventually had to get another linen bin because we went through so many!
I asked for an epidural at about 8:30 or 9 am and they called Dr. Murphy and he said he'd get there about 10:15 to check me. He wanted to make sure I was making progress so they put my on pitocin. THat was tough because I was already feeling at my limit for contractions and pitocin makes them harder, more powerful.So I dealt with that for while :-(
Dr. Murphy got there right when he said. He checked me and I was still pretty much at 1 cm!! He watched the pattern of contractions and since they were coming in doubles and triples and still 2-4 minutes apart, he told me was back labor, which I hadn't even thought of, I thought it was totally normal. But it made sense since my back was being severed (it felt like). I felt like such a baby since I was only at 1 cm and begging for epidural, but the nurse said she's seen women who've had a few natural births have back labor and get an epidural fast. The reason I had back labor was that she was turned facing up instead of down. The back of her head was pressing on my spine. Ouch!
Dr. Murphy thought maybe epidural was a good idea; if I got relaxed enough, maybe she'd turn over. You can have a baby in a posterior position, but it isn't easy and not everyone can do it. So great, get that guy in here with the drugs!! But he was having a busy morning and he didn't get there until 11:20. In the mean time I was really losing it. I asked for Jesus more than once and told Dave to just get away and I was in hands and knees to give her room to flip, but that didn't really help. They also put a monitor on her head (I guess it gets screwed into the scalp) for her heartbeat since she was under different pressure than usual and we wanted to make sure we knew what was going on with her).
At 11:15 or so, he finally got there and started the preparations for the epidural, which unfortunately took long than I thought it would. Having 3 or 4 contractions while having the drugs right there but not in my was hard. It was harder still that I was having to sit up without any thing to really lean on or grap on when they hit. After he got it in (and I was careful to do everything he asked since an epidural can possibly result in paralysis or be just on one side, or go into the wrong space and cause bad headaches if it isn't applied correctly) I felt better. I asked if it was psychosomatic, and they said, no, it was just starting to work.
I nearly cried with relief. I love epidural man! I actually slept a little and rested alot and just couldn't beleive that I felt so good. I'd watch the monitor show my contractions and marvel. So at 12:30 or so I was at about 4 cm. That's 3 cm in one hour, yea! AN hour later, at 1:30 I was at 7, half an hour later at 2 I was at 8, and at 2:30 had just a little left to go.
Here is a gross part: since I couldn't feel much and the contractions pushed against my rectum, I was farting quite a bit. Plus, I had a suspicion there was more than just gas there. Sure enough, the nurse cleared away a poopy sheet more than once). Remember those brats and chili? ew. But I know it is normal, I just don't think the smell level was normal.
By this time, she'd turned over :-) but then it was scary because her heart tones would drop every now and again. Not a big deal if it is a little bit, but her's were really tanking. This meant that the cord was likely wrapped around something.
This is scary because every contraction to move her down puts her at a risk of oxygen loss (read: brain damage when I heard it). The doctor said we might need a cesarean, and if so, it would be emergency and we'd have to use general anesthetic (not time to make sure the epidural was right). But he said we might be able to still do it vaginally. For that to happen, it was a race against getting her through the birth canal fast enough. That meant probably help (forceps) and hard pushing work. I asked about the vacuum, but her head was a little crooked still and he needed to turn her as she came out and the vacuum wouldn't be able to do that as well as forceps.
So we went for it; I pushed about every other or every two contractions to give her heartones a chance to normalize. For pushing contractions I pushed ten seconds three times in a row. Sometime in there I guess the doctor had to cut me (episiotomy) in order to get the forceps in. They look like shoe-horns. I didn't notice but I'm impressed Dave didn't pass out watching that!
THe nurse had one leg and Dave had the other and I grabbed the instep of each foot. I was glad we practiced this in yoga. I could see on the doctors gloves lots of blood and also some poo...it must have been a mess down there. It was hard to know where to push since (blessedly) I couldn't really feel it. But the doctor said I'm a champ because I only pushed for about 20 minutes, and I think a total of 6 or so contractions. When she came out, it sort of felt like a poop, but that makes sense since I had a third degree tear which goes from vagina into rectal muscles. It isn't the worst, though, a fourth degree goes into the rectum, ouch!
When she came out, at 4:04 pm, she wasn't at all cone-headed, and her color was good. She gave a good cry as the cord was cut. I guess they pulled the placenta out, but I didn't pay attention because they cleaned her off and I got to hold her. It was so beautiful! I think she's the thing I'm proudest of in my whole life- she is so perfect! A great mop of dark hair that was curly, and now seems straight.
It took about 30-40 minutes to make "repairs" to me. Again, SO SO SO glad for epidural man! They were done by about 5 pm and cleaned me up. I still smelled poopy when I shifted and let the nurse know...sure enough, alot of poopy mess underneath me. That was getting cleaned up as the first visitors arrived: daddy, my sister, then mom and Jim.
At 7 pm I was transferred to my recovery room. I had to be on a gurney since I kept almost passing out. I guess I lost alot of blood, plus I pass out sort of easily. I was pretty tired.
That is the story, though there is more to tell. Hard to explain to non-parents exactly how much time a little one takes. I had no idea, I thought people exaggerated it. Nope. Full time just recovering and feeding! But that is a whole other story.
Okay, I've got lots to take care of and do (especially sleep) but I wanted to get this down before I forget the details.
First, Charlotte was about a week earlier than I thought she'd be, and about two weeks earlier than my doctor thought. So I planned to take care of all kinds of details on Sunday and just relax this week and prepare for the baby. Stuff I had to do included: Pack hosptial bag, get changing table and diaper pails set up, buy stuff at target/babies r us, clean the house, buy thank you notes, etc.
Instead, I chose to use my last free day at "teach a friend to homebrew day", which was nice and fun. It was a long day, we were at Hoffmaster State park about 11 am and ended in a parking lot a few miles away about 6 or 7 pm (long story for another day there). I had chili and brats. That part is important later.
That night, I thought a bath would be nice, but when I got in to soak, my giant belly just stuck right out of the water so it wasn't as good as I'd hoped. I did take the chipped nail polish off my toes and repainted them (as well as I could reach) and I managed to shave my legs, which I was happy about later.
Dave and I started a movie and at 9:30, which is pretty lame, decided we were both exhausted and to just go to bed. I thought about how Jen told me, "any night you don't get sleep and feel crummy, you could go into labor the next day so pamper yourself and don't get too tired". But I thought I was safe for about a week.
At about 11 pm I started my usual waking up alot routine of discomfort, but it was different. I felt sort of sick. No contraction, not really nauseous, just not right. ANd I was waking up 20 to 35 minutes or so. I had crazy dreams that someone was in labor (yeah, I didn't think it was me) and then I felt like I wet the bed, but not becuase it wasn't a trickle and it wasn't under my control, it was a whoosh. so I staggered/dripped to the bathroom and it just kept coming. It was 3 am. I went downstairs and called Dr. Murphy and I was on the phone when Dave actually woke up (he sleeps like the dead) and he figured out what was happening. The doctor told me to go to the hospital and I asked if it was alright if it took a little while since I wasn't even packed yet. He said it sounded like I wasn't having real contractions so it was okay. Dave got in the shower and I packed (thought I forgot all kinds of stuff) and we got to the hospital about 4 am. We checked in and they put us in triage to make sure I was in labor or needed to be there (water breaking was a good reason, even if it is premature). I was feeling mild contractions that were about 5 minutes apart, but very tolerable. I breathed throught them alright and thought I was doing great. I was not dilated at all :-( but about 90% effaced.
I was transferred to a labor and delivery room at about 5 am and contractions continued and got stronger. Dave rested on the couch and I on the bed and I listened to my relaxation tapes and relaxed (or tried to) until about 6:20. The contractions were different than I thought they'd feel. I felt alot like I was taking a tough poop, there was loads of pressure on my butt and back. The abdomen wasn't doing much, except down really low. I was sure I was making tons of progress since the contractions were getting really strong. I begged them to check me. 1 cm. "that's it?!" I said. A little frustrating.
This basic pattern continued, gradually getting stronger. The new nurse came on at 7 am and I got in the tub at about 7:20. Pretty much the same experience as before with my tummy being out and cold. When I was on my side it was much more painful, so I didn't do that. David helped me as much as he could, but there was little he could do. After that for a while, they checked my dilation again. No progress. a cm, maybe plus a little, but not really. The nurse said that she noticed I wanted to have as natural a birth as possible (avoing pain killers) and I said that I was starting to change my mind, maybe if I was just at 1 cm. and it was already this bad.
It was weird because I knew I was having these really hard contractions and I think they were 2 to 4 minutes apart, which is pretty close and steady for no progress to happen. But my back was getting worse and worse. The pain was getting really tough to deal with. My body was having a hard time with it. Before the contractions, I'd start just shaking, pretty hard, then it'd go into the contraction. The shaking was scary becasue I knew it was coming! I'd wave Dave over and then when he tried to take my hand I'd push him away (I didn't want to crush his hand). Dave was calling folks to say what was going on and Andy called and suggested he rub my back. That helped. The nurse had me get into hands and knees position, but that was like being on my side- more painful!
This whole time, every contraction, more water is letting loose. I didn't know that the placenta continued making amniotic fluid. I felt like I was in a swamp! The nurse kept changing the pad and blankets and eventually had to get another linen bin because we went through so many!
I asked for an epidural at about 8:30 or 9 am and they called Dr. Murphy and he said he'd get there about 10:15 to check me. He wanted to make sure I was making progress so they put my on pitocin. THat was tough because I was already feeling at my limit for contractions and pitocin makes them harder, more powerful.So I dealt with that for while :-(
Dr. Murphy got there right when he said. He checked me and I was still pretty much at 1 cm!! He watched the pattern of contractions and since they were coming in doubles and triples and still 2-4 minutes apart, he told me was back labor, which I hadn't even thought of, I thought it was totally normal. But it made sense since my back was being severed (it felt like). I felt like such a baby since I was only at 1 cm and begging for epidural, but the nurse said she's seen women who've had a few natural births have back labor and get an epidural fast. The reason I had back labor was that she was turned facing up instead of down. The back of her head was pressing on my spine. Ouch!
Dr. Murphy thought maybe epidural was a good idea; if I got relaxed enough, maybe she'd turn over. You can have a baby in a posterior position, but it isn't easy and not everyone can do it. So great, get that guy in here with the drugs!! But he was having a busy morning and he didn't get there until 11:20. In the mean time I was really losing it. I asked for Jesus more than once and told Dave to just get away and I was in hands and knees to give her room to flip, but that didn't really help. They also put a monitor on her head (I guess it gets screwed into the scalp) for her heartbeat since she was under different pressure than usual and we wanted to make sure we knew what was going on with her).
At 11:15 or so, he finally got there and started the preparations for the epidural, which unfortunately took long than I thought it would. Having 3 or 4 contractions while having the drugs right there but not in my was hard. It was harder still that I was having to sit up without any thing to really lean on or grap on when they hit. After he got it in (and I was careful to do everything he asked since an epidural can possibly result in paralysis or be just on one side, or go into the wrong space and cause bad headaches if it isn't applied correctly) I felt better. I asked if it was psychosomatic, and they said, no, it was just starting to work.
I nearly cried with relief. I love epidural man! I actually slept a little and rested alot and just couldn't beleive that I felt so good. I'd watch the monitor show my contractions and marvel. So at 12:30 or so I was at about 4 cm. That's 3 cm in one hour, yea! AN hour later, at 1:30 I was at 7, half an hour later at 2 I was at 8, and at 2:30 had just a little left to go.
Here is a gross part: since I couldn't feel much and the contractions pushed against my rectum, I was farting quite a bit. Plus, I had a suspicion there was more than just gas there. Sure enough, the nurse cleared away a poopy sheet more than once). Remember those brats and chili? ew. But I know it is normal, I just don't think the smell level was normal.
By this time, she'd turned over :-) but then it was scary because her heart tones would drop every now and again. Not a big deal if it is a little bit, but her's were really tanking. This meant that the cord was likely wrapped around something.
This is scary because every contraction to move her down puts her at a risk of oxygen loss (read: brain damage when I heard it). The doctor said we might need a cesarean, and if so, it would be emergency and we'd have to use general anesthetic (not time to make sure the epidural was right). But he said we might be able to still do it vaginally. For that to happen, it was a race against getting her through the birth canal fast enough. That meant probably help (forceps) and hard pushing work. I asked about the vacuum, but her head was a little crooked still and he needed to turn her as she came out and the vacuum wouldn't be able to do that as well as forceps.
So we went for it; I pushed about every other or every two contractions to give her heartones a chance to normalize. For pushing contractions I pushed ten seconds three times in a row. Sometime in there I guess the doctor had to cut me (episiotomy) in order to get the forceps in. They look like shoe-horns. I didn't notice but I'm impressed Dave didn't pass out watching that!
THe nurse had one leg and Dave had the other and I grabbed the instep of each foot. I was glad we practiced this in yoga. I could see on the doctors gloves lots of blood and also some poo...it must have been a mess down there. It was hard to know where to push since (blessedly) I couldn't really feel it. But the doctor said I'm a champ because I only pushed for about 20 minutes, and I think a total of 6 or so contractions. When she came out, it sort of felt like a poop, but that makes sense since I had a third degree tear which goes from vagina into rectal muscles. It isn't the worst, though, a fourth degree goes into the rectum, ouch!
When she came out, at 4:04 pm, she wasn't at all cone-headed, and her color was good. She gave a good cry as the cord was cut. I guess they pulled the placenta out, but I didn't pay attention because they cleaned her off and I got to hold her. It was so beautiful! I think she's the thing I'm proudest of in my whole life- she is so perfect! A great mop of dark hair that was curly, and now seems straight.
It took about 30-40 minutes to make "repairs" to me. Again, SO SO SO glad for epidural man! They were done by about 5 pm and cleaned me up. I still smelled poopy when I shifted and let the nurse know...sure enough, alot of poopy mess underneath me. That was getting cleaned up as the first visitors arrived: daddy, my sister, then mom and Jim.
At 7 pm I was transferred to my recovery room. I had to be on a gurney since I kept almost passing out. I guess I lost alot of blood, plus I pass out sort of easily. I was pretty tired.
That is the story, though there is more to tell. Hard to explain to non-parents exactly how much time a little one takes. I had no idea, I thought people exaggerated it. Nope. Full time just recovering and feeding! But that is a whole other story.
Thursday, November 02, 2006
"It's a big baby"
Yesterday (Wednesday) I went to see the doctor. It was a good visit, although he told me that I shouldn't set my heart on delivering early because every day I go over will be that much harder. He said since my due date is Nov. 15, I might go a week late, which would put me at Thanksgiving! Good lord, I hope I don't go that long.
He did say that I'm "disabled" from working and that I should rest, and I agreed so tomorrow, the 3rd will be my last day. It is a tough decision because I know that my FMLA time starts right away and I'll only get twelve weeks off work, no matter when little Charlotte arrives. But I decided that I do need rest (desperately) and as long as I can have it (since I do have the studpid short term disability) I should take advantage to prepare myself metally and also just prepare the house. Like maybe cleaning a little :-)
The doctor said at first he expected the baby to be about 6.5 or 7 pounds, but then he felt (which isn't very comfortable) and said, whoa, she'd pretty far down there and she's not small. He thinks she might be about 7.5 now, so I could deliver her at 8.5 to 9.5 pounds. Not a surprise since I, myself, was 9.5 pounds.
As far as progress, he thinks I'm about 25% effaced (which refers to the thinning of the cervix). This means almost nothing. I could go into labor tomorrow, or in three weeks. I do think that positive thinking and me feeling ready might help. I haven't had any contractions, but I have felt a little crampy. I'm pretty excited and curious just to meet her and to find out what my "story" is.
I have mixed feeling about leaving work, since I think, well, I could probably do another week...but my sub has been here all week and I told him that I'd be gone starting Monday. I'm sick of school since it is the last week of the marking period and I've been going nuts with grading and just getting everything as prepared and settled as I can. But every day at school is a little bit of a battle. I'm working from 7 to about 5, then a couple of hours of work at home...I'm just so tired right now! I can't sleep most nights and I'd take naps if I had time. Watch, as soon as I stop working, I'll be able to sleep fine.
He did say that I'm "disabled" from working and that I should rest, and I agreed so tomorrow, the 3rd will be my last day. It is a tough decision because I know that my FMLA time starts right away and I'll only get twelve weeks off work, no matter when little Charlotte arrives. But I decided that I do need rest (desperately) and as long as I can have it (since I do have the studpid short term disability) I should take advantage to prepare myself metally and also just prepare the house. Like maybe cleaning a little :-)
The doctor said at first he expected the baby to be about 6.5 or 7 pounds, but then he felt (which isn't very comfortable) and said, whoa, she'd pretty far down there and she's not small. He thinks she might be about 7.5 now, so I could deliver her at 8.5 to 9.5 pounds. Not a surprise since I, myself, was 9.5 pounds.
As far as progress, he thinks I'm about 25% effaced (which refers to the thinning of the cervix). This means almost nothing. I could go into labor tomorrow, or in three weeks. I do think that positive thinking and me feeling ready might help. I haven't had any contractions, but I have felt a little crampy. I'm pretty excited and curious just to meet her and to find out what my "story" is.
I have mixed feeling about leaving work, since I think, well, I could probably do another week...but my sub has been here all week and I told him that I'd be gone starting Monday. I'm sick of school since it is the last week of the marking period and I've been going nuts with grading and just getting everything as prepared and settled as I can. But every day at school is a little bit of a battle. I'm working from 7 to about 5, then a couple of hours of work at home...I'm just so tired right now! I can't sleep most nights and I'd take naps if I had time. Watch, as soon as I stop working, I'll be able to sleep fine.
Sunday, October 29, 2006
Baby stuff
At my last baby shower, the one at school, it was the only shower where everyone knew the gender of the baby. I specifically wanted some clothes, and I was not disappointed! Here are the clothes I got!
I especially like the squirrel sleeper, the formal black coat, the little sweater, and "shake it" onsie with a rattle on it!
Here is the playpen with Hobbes, who decided it was a nice place to sleep.
Friday, October 27, 2006
Tuesday, October 24, 2006
Getting screwed by STD
No, I don't mean a sexually transmitted disease...STD is the abbreviation for Short term disability. Something I signed up for two years ago to take care of maternity leave. Apparently, I didn't get the whole story about how it works.
I had to elect an 8 or 28 day "waiting period". When I asked insurance lady what the waiting period was, she said you wait to get your check on the 8th day or the 28th day. So why is it a different amount taken out of my check? She says because some people really the need the check at the beginning of the month, or the end of the month. So I get the same amount? "Yep."
I called MESSA to make sure I understood what needed to be done and how STD works...looks like the waiting period means you WAIT that long before you are ELIGIBLE for STD. So for a standard 6 week maternity leave, I'd wait 28 days (4 weeks) before being eligible to get my check...which would only be for two weeks.
So I'm sort of screwed. I can use sick days, though I've been using them and donating them for two years because I thought I had STD and didn't need to worry about days. So I only have 17.
What's more is that apparently every year I was supposed to ask them to up my amount...of course I didn't know this and so my benefit (of which I'm only entitled to two weeks) will be based on my first years salary that is 10,000 less than I make now.
I'm pretty pissed about it, but I know that we'll be okay, the baby will have clothes, etc. But the insurance lady should have the right info, should help people understand that info and make good decisions. Despite evidence to the contrary, I'm not an idiot; I wouldn't sign up for disability knowing that I'd be getting a mere two weeks worth! I am losing money on this overall, and what is worse is that since "open enrollment" is over, I have to keep paying all year, knowing I'm getting screwed!
In other news, I saw the doctor yesterday (appointments weekly now) and all seems well. Good blood pressure, weight, and fundus measure. Supposedly I still have about 3 weeks left...but I have always felt that I'd be done the second week of November.
I'm so excited...a few things left to do. Still have to buy nursing gown, pack hospital bags, put up some hooks in the babies room. Of course the house is a disaster, but I will say my sweet spouse has been pretty darn helpful with stuff. I just need to get some vacuuming done and a little organizing. It seems like I can't get my dining room table clear; there is always something!
Oh, and I have some pictures I'd like to post. But somehow every week is so darn busy...and weekends I am busy, too! Gotta make time for important stuff, like blogging :-)
I had to elect an 8 or 28 day "waiting period". When I asked insurance lady what the waiting period was, she said you wait to get your check on the 8th day or the 28th day. So why is it a different amount taken out of my check? She says because some people really the need the check at the beginning of the month, or the end of the month. So I get the same amount? "Yep."
I called MESSA to make sure I understood what needed to be done and how STD works...looks like the waiting period means you WAIT that long before you are ELIGIBLE for STD. So for a standard 6 week maternity leave, I'd wait 28 days (4 weeks) before being eligible to get my check...which would only be for two weeks.
So I'm sort of screwed. I can use sick days, though I've been using them and donating them for two years because I thought I had STD and didn't need to worry about days. So I only have 17.
What's more is that apparently every year I was supposed to ask them to up my amount...of course I didn't know this and so my benefit (of which I'm only entitled to two weeks) will be based on my first years salary that is 10,000 less than I make now.
I'm pretty pissed about it, but I know that we'll be okay, the baby will have clothes, etc. But the insurance lady should have the right info, should help people understand that info and make good decisions. Despite evidence to the contrary, I'm not an idiot; I wouldn't sign up for disability knowing that I'd be getting a mere two weeks worth! I am losing money on this overall, and what is worse is that since "open enrollment" is over, I have to keep paying all year, knowing I'm getting screwed!
In other news, I saw the doctor yesterday (appointments weekly now) and all seems well. Good blood pressure, weight, and fundus measure. Supposedly I still have about 3 weeks left...but I have always felt that I'd be done the second week of November.
I'm so excited...a few things left to do. Still have to buy nursing gown, pack hospital bags, put up some hooks in the babies room. Of course the house is a disaster, but I will say my sweet spouse has been pretty darn helpful with stuff. I just need to get some vacuuming done and a little organizing. It seems like I can't get my dining room table clear; there is always something!
Oh, and I have some pictures I'd like to post. But somehow every week is so darn busy...and weekends I am busy, too! Gotta make time for important stuff, like blogging :-)
Wednesday, October 18, 2006
Reduced foot size and worry
On Sunday I called Dr. Andy to ask about the whole toxemia and preeclampsia thing. He made me feel better, as usual. What do pregnant people who don't have Dr. Andy do?? Apparently the swollen feet was taken off the list of symptoms for preeclampsia since it is so darn common amongst preggos. He said to beware of significantly swollen hands and face. Also, of course protein in pee (can't test that at home) and blood pressure (again, can't test at home). He said to monitor salt, but really the baby is pressing on the venous return and that is what is making me puff out. So instead of "putting up feet", try to lay on my side to take pressure off back.
My feet are slightly better, my right one went down andthe left one is still a little puffy. At the doctor yesterday my pee test came out fine and blood pressure is 109/70 (same as usually and quite good). My belly (fundus) measures right where it is supposed to. Weight gain is in the right window. Unfortunately, the doctor was once again called to L and D at the start of my appointment, so it was short. He took the strep B test and I'll get results next week.
I start weekly appointments now and the doc says if the baby comes now, we won't try to stop it. No kidding! This kid can "head out" any time now. But I do have mixed feelings...As much as I'm ready to have my body back, I am of course a little nervous about the rest of having a baby. Dave and I did the hospital tour last night and it went okay. Being in the delivery room made me a little nervous and pulse racy. Reminds me of shoulder surgery and the hysterics just before I went in. Must stay calm! Dave will help with that :-)
Last baby shower (work) tomorrow. Then a trip to babies R us and target to get the last bits that I think I need.
My feet are slightly better, my right one went down andthe left one is still a little puffy. At the doctor yesterday my pee test came out fine and blood pressure is 109/70 (same as usually and quite good). My belly (fundus) measures right where it is supposed to. Weight gain is in the right window. Unfortunately, the doctor was once again called to L and D at the start of my appointment, so it was short. He took the strep B test and I'll get results next week.
I start weekly appointments now and the doc says if the baby comes now, we won't try to stop it. No kidding! This kid can "head out" any time now. But I do have mixed feelings...As much as I'm ready to have my body back, I am of course a little nervous about the rest of having a baby. Dave and I did the hospital tour last night and it went okay. Being in the delivery room made me a little nervous and pulse racy. Reminds me of shoulder surgery and the hysterics just before I went in. Must stay calm! Dave will help with that :-)
Last baby shower (work) tomorrow. Then a trip to babies R us and target to get the last bits that I think I need.
Sunday, October 15, 2006
One small foot for woman, one giant foot for womankind
Yesterday I was at Sara Wiles's baby shower and at the end, I looked down and my right foot seemed puffy. Upon closer inspection and comparrison to my left foot, I saw that it was indeed about twice the size it should be!
I knew that foot swelling was normal for the end of pregnancy, but it really threw me that it was only my right foot. Advice from non-doctor but knowledgable people included limiting salt intake, putting my feet up, and taking it easy. I tried to keep my foot up yesterday and today, but it is still puffy and uncomfortable. I think I need to talk to an actual doctor, but I did check the internet and it sort of scared me.
Apparently toxemia and preeclampsia (which are quite serious) occur in 5-7% of pregnancies and symptoms are swollen feet, headaches, sudden weight gain. Hmmm...sounds like me. And there is little to do about it. And of course I found a cite that claims that limiting salt intake is the worst thing to do because they'd actually cause water retention.
Today I ordered a belly-cast kit and I'm pretty excited to get it. I don't know I'd do with it when it is done, but I thought it'd be nice to have. I have only four more weeks (supposedly) so time is getting short. There are few things I still need to do before baby. SOme organizing and buying a few more things.
Seeing Jen's baby, Keira, helps me to be ready for little Charlotte to come:-)
I knew that foot swelling was normal for the end of pregnancy, but it really threw me that it was only my right foot. Advice from non-doctor but knowledgable people included limiting salt intake, putting my feet up, and taking it easy. I tried to keep my foot up yesterday and today, but it is still puffy and uncomfortable. I think I need to talk to an actual doctor, but I did check the internet and it sort of scared me.
Apparently toxemia and preeclampsia (which are quite serious) occur in 5-7% of pregnancies and symptoms are swollen feet, headaches, sudden weight gain. Hmmm...sounds like me. And there is little to do about it. And of course I found a cite that claims that limiting salt intake is the worst thing to do because they'd actually cause water retention.
Today I ordered a belly-cast kit and I'm pretty excited to get it. I don't know I'd do with it when it is done, but I thought it'd be nice to have. I have only four more weeks (supposedly) so time is getting short. There are few things I still need to do before baby. SOme organizing and buying a few more things.
Seeing Jen's baby, Keira, helps me to be ready for little Charlotte to come:-)
Thursday, October 12, 2006
It's a girl!
The announcement is official: Dave and I are having a baby girl. We plan to name her Charlotte Jane Baker (unless I change my mind!). We're both excited and happy, though I really knew the whole time. I had a dream in March that I Mary had a boy, and Jen and I had girls and I was just sure of it. Dave had dreams it was a boy, though. The only baby dream I've had was that I had to sacrifice Dave for the baby to live- not very nice!
I decided a couple of weeks ago to finally share the news because sharing news is fun! I started at my shower in Cleveland thrown by Dave's family. I made sure the last gift I opened was one that I brought for the baby. It was the little dress I made this summer for her. So it was pretty clear when I opened the box what the gender way. Then the next weekend I told my mom and her family in the same way. I called Daddy and grandma Van then, too. But I couldn't tell anyone before my mom knew!
I'm glad we made that decision. It has been fun to talk about and I can finally say "she". She has hiccups all the time! Her head is down and she is in a good position! Also, we are so fortunate to have almost everything we need her. Now I just need to get clothes so she isn't naked all the time! I still have to pick out an outfit for her to wear home from the hospital.
I decided a couple of weeks ago to finally share the news because sharing news is fun! I started at my shower in Cleveland thrown by Dave's family. I made sure the last gift I opened was one that I brought for the baby. It was the little dress I made this summer for her. So it was pretty clear when I opened the box what the gender way. Then the next weekend I told my mom and her family in the same way. I called Daddy and grandma Van then, too. But I couldn't tell anyone before my mom knew!
I'm glad we made that decision. It has been fun to talk about and I can finally say "she". She has hiccups all the time! Her head is down and she is in a good position! Also, we are so fortunate to have almost everything we need her. Now I just need to get clothes so she isn't naked all the time! I still have to pick out an outfit for her to wear home from the hospital.
Tuesday, October 10, 2006
October already!
I guess I, too, haven't written in a while. I have ideas of stuff to write about...but it hasn't happened. Somehow I'm keeping pretty busy. What's new...
I can't believe it is October. I have just five more weeks. That is good because I'm getting sick of the pain in sleep. I know I won't sleep when the baby comes, but at least it doesn't hurt when you sleep!
I am still going to physical therapy. I go only once per week now. I had terrible pain about a week ago and took a day off work. I looked it up on the internet and found a condition called symphysis pubis dysfunction. Pretty sure that was what I had, the list of symptoms was like reading my mind! Terrible pain turning over in bed, can't stand on one leg, a bad waddle, etc. But when I asked my doctor, he said, "no, you don't have that". He was pretty short with me, which was irking, but I soon found out he had someone in L and D (labor and delivery) who was "going early". Next appointment I plan to talk to him more about it. I think he thought I was suggesting that I had symphysis pubis dystocia (which is where it actually separates- yikes!). I know that isn't it, my therapist has been treating me for dysfunction, where it slips up or down on one side or another.
But today he said that it seems even, though my saccrum is still somewhat torqued. I had to sit down all day since we gave the MEAP all darn day! I thought I'd get so much done, but all kinds of stuff comes up and I didn't do any planning! But I did grade some stuff, organize some stuff, and put out fires. I didn't actually have a prep period, but tomorrow I get two hours!! Yippee.
Babywise, I'm so damn excited!! Jen DiGennaro had her baby girl, Keira Rose, on Saturday evening. She was born 7 pounds 9 ounces, 19.5 inches long. It was a long and hard labor and Keira was delivered by cesarean but baby and mom are recovering well. I visited on Sunday night and now I'm just so eager for it to happen, it makes focusing on school tough. I have most of my showers done, just one at work is left. We are pretty well set on baby stuff. I used gift cards to buy the glider rocker, which I already love. I just like to go into the nursery and sit and dream. But not for too long, because then I start moving furniture around. I love the decor of the room, it is just sooooooo small! THe rocker does take up alot of room, too, so I'm trying to find a way that works well.
Dave is in Kentucky. But hopefully this is the last trip until a while after the baby. If I "go" early, I want daddy home with me!
Oh, my doctor put me on a diet when my weight started to sky-rocket, but I haven't gained any weight in the last three weeks, so it is fine. The weight wasn't even the problem, it was a just a very sudden and severe amount that he didn't want to continue until the end.
I need to take some pictures and post them, hopefully it will happen this week.
I can't believe it is October. I have just five more weeks. That is good because I'm getting sick of the pain in sleep. I know I won't sleep when the baby comes, but at least it doesn't hurt when you sleep!
I am still going to physical therapy. I go only once per week now. I had terrible pain about a week ago and took a day off work. I looked it up on the internet and found a condition called symphysis pubis dysfunction. Pretty sure that was what I had, the list of symptoms was like reading my mind! Terrible pain turning over in bed, can't stand on one leg, a bad waddle, etc. But when I asked my doctor, he said, "no, you don't have that". He was pretty short with me, which was irking, but I soon found out he had someone in L and D (labor and delivery) who was "going early". Next appointment I plan to talk to him more about it. I think he thought I was suggesting that I had symphysis pubis dystocia (which is where it actually separates- yikes!). I know that isn't it, my therapist has been treating me for dysfunction, where it slips up or down on one side or another.
But today he said that it seems even, though my saccrum is still somewhat torqued. I had to sit down all day since we gave the MEAP all darn day! I thought I'd get so much done, but all kinds of stuff comes up and I didn't do any planning! But I did grade some stuff, organize some stuff, and put out fires. I didn't actually have a prep period, but tomorrow I get two hours!! Yippee.
Babywise, I'm so damn excited!! Jen DiGennaro had her baby girl, Keira Rose, on Saturday evening. She was born 7 pounds 9 ounces, 19.5 inches long. It was a long and hard labor and Keira was delivered by cesarean but baby and mom are recovering well. I visited on Sunday night and now I'm just so eager for it to happen, it makes focusing on school tough. I have most of my showers done, just one at work is left. We are pretty well set on baby stuff. I used gift cards to buy the glider rocker, which I already love. I just like to go into the nursery and sit and dream. But not for too long, because then I start moving furniture around. I love the decor of the room, it is just sooooooo small! THe rocker does take up alot of room, too, so I'm trying to find a way that works well.
Dave is in Kentucky. But hopefully this is the last trip until a while after the baby. If I "go" early, I want daddy home with me!
Oh, my doctor put me on a diet when my weight started to sky-rocket, but I haven't gained any weight in the last three weeks, so it is fine. The weight wasn't even the problem, it was a just a very sudden and severe amount that he didn't want to continue until the end.
I need to take some pictures and post them, hopefully it will happen this week.
Sunday, September 24, 2006
50 questions (with answers)
1. First Name? Kater
2. Are you named after anyone? Not intentionally, when I was in my teens my dad found out I had lots of Katherine ancestors.
3. When did you last cry? At my baby shower (3 times).
4. Do you like your handwriting? No, but a student once told me it was nice, so I feel a little better about it. I like capital B's.
5. What is my favorite lunch meat? No meats right now...how about PBJ?
6. Kids? 8/9ths inside me now.
7. If you were another person would you be friends with you? Yes, though I think that would change me. I think I'd see the things that others might not like about me and then change a little.
8. Do you have a journal? Just this blog. I kept diaries in middle school and now they are just sad and embarassing.
9. Do you use sarcasm a lot? No, I'm too dumb.
10. Do you still have your tonsils? yes.
11. Would you bungee jump? Not a chance in hell.
12. What is my favorite cereal? European Muslix. I do love breakfasts in Germany. Rolls, meats, cheeses, jellys and such, yogurt. I was never dissapointed with German fruestuck.
13. Do you untie your shoes when you take them off? Always! I wear shoes really tight.
14. Do you think you are strong? In spirit, but not body.
15. What is your favorite ice cream? Moosetracks.
16. Shoe size? 9 (kind of 9.5 right now, though).
17. Red or pink? Pink.
18. What is your least favorite thing about yourself? I don't show the people I love how much I love them enough. I think about it... but it doens't usually happen.
19. What do you miss the most? Being proud of my dad.
20. Do you want everyone to do this also? Yes, I'd love to read this from anyone, including complete strangers.
21. What colour of pants and shoes are you wearing? black sweats, no socks (my feet are cold but I don't feel like going all the way upstairs).
22. Who is your favorite writer/book/movie?
King, Steven
A prayer for Owen Meany/ Surely You're joking Mr. Feynmann
American Beauty
23. What are you listening to right now? Alot of NPR
24. If you were a crayon what colour would you be? I always felt sorry for "cornflower", it just never seems vibrant enough and that no one would want to use it. Sometimes I feel like that.
25. What are your favorite smells? Autumn, spring, food.
26. Who was the last person you spoke with on the phone? My aunt called to see if I left a jacket at her house.
27. The first thing that you notice about people that you are attracted to? Wit.
28. Do you like the person who sent this to you? I really like the person to whom I am responding, I married him.
29. Favorite drink? Gin and tonic or Mojito.
30. Favorite sport? I don't care for sports in general, but I do like football more than others and can tolerate much more of it.
31. Hair colour? Light Brown.
32. Eye colour? Light Blue.
33. Do you wear contacts? No, I always wanted to wear glasses but my darn vision is perfect!
34. Favorite food? Manicotti (my mom's), fresh bread (my mom's), sugar.
35. Scary movie or happy endings? I like both, but scary gives me nightmares.
36. Last movie you watched? LA Confidential
37. Colour of the shirt you are wearing? light blue.
38. Winter of summer? Summer.
39. Hugs or kisses? Usually neither, I tend to be very physically unaffectionate (much to the chagrin of my spouse).
40. What is your favorite dessert? chocolate anything and a coffee.
41. Who is most likely to respond? Only KzooJason has yet to do this and I suppose he will not.
42. Who is least likely to respond? See 41.
43. What books are you reading? Nothing, I need to get to the library ASAP!
44. What is on your mouse pad? I do not have one. The optical mice of today no longer require one.
45. Favorite sounds? The cat's purr is pretty nice, but I really like my husband saying nice things to me.
46. What's that on the telly? He's watching football.
47. Rolling Stones or The Beatles? The Beatles.
48. The furthest you've been from home? I have not done the math but Rome may be farther than Vienna. Those would be the canidates though.
49. Do you have a special talent? I can hardly tell a lie...disgusting honesty that isn't usually appreciated or helpful.
50. When and where were you born? I was born in Muskegon, MI July 30, 1976.
2. Are you named after anyone? Not intentionally, when I was in my teens my dad found out I had lots of Katherine ancestors.
3. When did you last cry? At my baby shower (3 times).
4. Do you like your handwriting? No, but a student once told me it was nice, so I feel a little better about it. I like capital B's.
5. What is my favorite lunch meat? No meats right now...how about PBJ?
6. Kids? 8/9ths inside me now.
7. If you were another person would you be friends with you? Yes, though I think that would change me. I think I'd see the things that others might not like about me and then change a little.
8. Do you have a journal? Just this blog. I kept diaries in middle school and now they are just sad and embarassing.
9. Do you use sarcasm a lot? No, I'm too dumb.
10. Do you still have your tonsils? yes.
11. Would you bungee jump? Not a chance in hell.
12. What is my favorite cereal? European Muslix. I do love breakfasts in Germany. Rolls, meats, cheeses, jellys and such, yogurt. I was never dissapointed with German fruestuck.
13. Do you untie your shoes when you take them off? Always! I wear shoes really tight.
14. Do you think you are strong? In spirit, but not body.
15. What is your favorite ice cream? Moosetracks.
16. Shoe size? 9 (kind of 9.5 right now, though).
17. Red or pink? Pink.
18. What is your least favorite thing about yourself? I don't show the people I love how much I love them enough. I think about it... but it doens't usually happen.
19. What do you miss the most? Being proud of my dad.
20. Do you want everyone to do this also? Yes, I'd love to read this from anyone, including complete strangers.
21. What colour of pants and shoes are you wearing? black sweats, no socks (my feet are cold but I don't feel like going all the way upstairs).
22. Who is your favorite writer/book/movie?
King, Steven
A prayer for Owen Meany/ Surely You're joking Mr. Feynmann
American Beauty
23. What are you listening to right now? Alot of NPR
24. If you were a crayon what colour would you be? I always felt sorry for "cornflower", it just never seems vibrant enough and that no one would want to use it. Sometimes I feel like that.
25. What are your favorite smells? Autumn, spring, food.
26. Who was the last person you spoke with on the phone? My aunt called to see if I left a jacket at her house.
27. The first thing that you notice about people that you are attracted to? Wit.
28. Do you like the person who sent this to you? I really like the person to whom I am responding, I married him.
29. Favorite drink? Gin and tonic or Mojito.
30. Favorite sport? I don't care for sports in general, but I do like football more than others and can tolerate much more of it.
31. Hair colour? Light Brown.
32. Eye colour? Light Blue.
33. Do you wear contacts? No, I always wanted to wear glasses but my darn vision is perfect!
34. Favorite food? Manicotti (my mom's), fresh bread (my mom's), sugar.
35. Scary movie or happy endings? I like both, but scary gives me nightmares.
36. Last movie you watched? LA Confidential
37. Colour of the shirt you are wearing? light blue.
38. Winter of summer? Summer.
39. Hugs or kisses? Usually neither, I tend to be very physically unaffectionate (much to the chagrin of my spouse).
40. What is your favorite dessert? chocolate anything and a coffee.
41. Who is most likely to respond? Only KzooJason has yet to do this and I suppose he will not.
42. Who is least likely to respond? See 41.
43. What books are you reading? Nothing, I need to get to the library ASAP!
44. What is on your mouse pad? I do not have one. The optical mice of today no longer require one.
45. Favorite sounds? The cat's purr is pretty nice, but I really like my husband saying nice things to me.
46. What's that on the telly? He's watching football.
47. Rolling Stones or The Beatles? The Beatles.
48. The furthest you've been from home? I have not done the math but Rome may be farther than Vienna. Those would be the canidates though.
49. Do you have a special talent? I can hardly tell a lie...disgusting honesty that isn't usually appreciated or helpful.
50. When and where were you born? I was born in Muskegon, MI July 30, 1976.
Baby Blues
Here I am, about 33 weeks pregnant, and I don't know how I"ll make it to November! The last three weeks have been very tough. I can't believe how UNCOMFORTABLE I am. I didn't think I'd feel this way until I had only a couple of weeks left. You can deal with almost anything for a couple of weeks. But this is harder than I thought. I have alot more respect not just for mothers, but for anyone who has been pregnant. Sleeping is a nightmare...it just doesn't happen anymore! I wake up several times a night, but not just to pee. My hips hurt. My legs cramp up. My ribs hurt. My back hurts. I'm hungry. Last week there was a night I got 6 hours of sleep in a row and it made such a difference!
But Friday night was miserable. I woke up every 45 in-1 hour. I was in lots of pain. I couldn't get comfortable. About 6 am. I was up and decided to pee since I was already awake. I step into the hall and into a giant pile of cat vomit! It squished through my toes and oozed onto the top of my foot. I started crying and hobbled down the hall trying not to make a trail of cat puke. With great difficulty, I hoisted my foot into the sink to rinse it. I came back and cleaned up the mess (cat puke stains horribly and there is still a faint orange mark) and got back into bed, sobbing.
My husband asked what was wrong and the crying continued. I tried to set up my pillows to sleep sitting up and slept a couple more hours. Then I rushed off to my baby shower hosted by my dad's family. They did a really nice job and I think it was exactly what I needed that day. When I walked in, they asked how I was, and I broke into tears (this is after I told myself the whole way that I didn't need to go into my crummy morning at the shower). It was really nice to be surrounded by people who cared and who knew exactly what I was talking about! I felt much better. More tears came when I opened gifts. I used to hate baby stuff, but I guess my hormones (and my heart) make me see it in a different light. What really got me was a book called "daddy kisses" and a book that my sister gave me of Beatrix Potter stories, which my mom always collected and read to us.
I'm excited to meet my baby, to see what personality the baby has. I can't wait to see what this baby looks like! Me? Dave? Neither of us? Curly hair or straight? What color eyes and hair? My carrier is so...secondary now. But I"m just ready to have my body back and get started raising this bugger!
I have made two e-bay purchases. I got the dansko clogs and the seller gave me $20 bucks back, which was good because they were more worn that what the picture looked like (touched up with black marker, too). But I think they are comfy and for a net total of $40, not too bad. I also bought a visualizer, or opaque projector camera, for my classroom. I hope to be reimbursed by grant money, but I think it is worth it to have such a great teaching tool. I got it for $225 when they go for $1300 new. I'm eager to get it and make sure it works!!
But Friday night was miserable. I woke up every 45 in-1 hour. I was in lots of pain. I couldn't get comfortable. About 6 am. I was up and decided to pee since I was already awake. I step into the hall and into a giant pile of cat vomit! It squished through my toes and oozed onto the top of my foot. I started crying and hobbled down the hall trying not to make a trail of cat puke. With great difficulty, I hoisted my foot into the sink to rinse it. I came back and cleaned up the mess (cat puke stains horribly and there is still a faint orange mark) and got back into bed, sobbing.
My husband asked what was wrong and the crying continued. I tried to set up my pillows to sleep sitting up and slept a couple more hours. Then I rushed off to my baby shower hosted by my dad's family. They did a really nice job and I think it was exactly what I needed that day. When I walked in, they asked how I was, and I broke into tears (this is after I told myself the whole way that I didn't need to go into my crummy morning at the shower). It was really nice to be surrounded by people who cared and who knew exactly what I was talking about! I felt much better. More tears came when I opened gifts. I used to hate baby stuff, but I guess my hormones (and my heart) make me see it in a different light. What really got me was a book called "daddy kisses" and a book that my sister gave me of Beatrix Potter stories, which my mom always collected and read to us.
I'm excited to meet my baby, to see what personality the baby has. I can't wait to see what this baby looks like! Me? Dave? Neither of us? Curly hair or straight? What color eyes and hair? My carrier is so...secondary now. But I"m just ready to have my body back and get started raising this bugger!
I have made two e-bay purchases. I got the dansko clogs and the seller gave me $20 bucks back, which was good because they were more worn that what the picture looked like (touched up with black marker, too). But I think they are comfy and for a net total of $40, not too bad. I also bought a visualizer, or opaque projector camera, for my classroom. I hope to be reimbursed by grant money, but I think it is worth it to have such a great teaching tool. I got it for $225 when they go for $1300 new. I'm eager to get it and make sure it works!!
Sunday, September 10, 2006
Back in the saddle again
One week of school down, nine more left before my maternity leave. I'm feeling good, now. Not so much a couple of weeks ago. My girlfriends threw me an awesome baby shower on the 26th. After that I went up north with the gang for kayaking and camping. That was really fun. I had an air mattress and other than the usual very difficult time turning over, sleeping wasn't so bad. It was fun to have Nathan and Sara there with all their camping expertise and accoutrements. Then on Sunday we kayaked for about 5 hours. I thought I might not look pregnant to people on the river since I was sitting down and my belly hidden. HA! HA! Looking at pictures just makes me giggle since it is soooo clear that I have a giant preggie belly. I'm okay with it, I did wear my bikini after all. I just didn't realize how big I was.
Or how tired I'd be on Monday! Crabby from tired and having to go back to work. School started for teachers that Tuesday and we had a three day inservice at a local church. We weren't even in our buildings to sneak away and get anything done. The first day I felt pretty good. But by the end of Wednesday I was in tears! My lower back was killing me. I figured it was just the pain of pregnancy and tried to treat it with some hot "Oma's kirschstiensack" (a bag a cherry pits from Germany that you put in the microwave to heat up). I wanted massage, but my insurance covers massage therapy only if paired with chiropractic treatment. Which I DON'T like (not the HVLA stuff). So I called my doc and he set up an appointment with a physical therapist.
Then on Monday, at prenatal yoga, my instructor helped me out with some muscle energy therapy and I felt way better. But I still kept my therapy appointment and felt a little bad when I went since I was "better". But the therapist watched me walk and noted that I was favoring one leg and we discovered that my saccrum was torqued and my pelvis out of alignment. He spent about 1.5 hours with my Wednesday, then I saw him again for 30 minutes Friday, though I felt way better on Friday. I have an appointment on Tuesday, but I"m feeling so much better in general, I hope that by continuing to go I can prevent any problems from returning.
I also found that I felt crummy at school because my clothes didn't fit. I didn't wan to get up in front of the kids because my shirt is scooching up, my pants are saggind down, my belly is hanging out, and I waddle (yes, people feel free to tell you how "cute" your waddle is). I have learned alot about being rude. Just because it is true does not mean you have to share it. So I bought a pair of khaki pants (that actually fit!) and a couple of other things. I'm also trying to buy a pair of dansko shoes on ebay- my first ever ebay purchase if it works. Wish me luck, only an hour left on my bid.
Or how tired I'd be on Monday! Crabby from tired and having to go back to work. School started for teachers that Tuesday and we had a three day inservice at a local church. We weren't even in our buildings to sneak away and get anything done. The first day I felt pretty good. But by the end of Wednesday I was in tears! My lower back was killing me. I figured it was just the pain of pregnancy and tried to treat it with some hot "Oma's kirschstiensack" (a bag a cherry pits from Germany that you put in the microwave to heat up). I wanted massage, but my insurance covers massage therapy only if paired with chiropractic treatment. Which I DON'T like (not the HVLA stuff). So I called my doc and he set up an appointment with a physical therapist.
Then on Monday, at prenatal yoga, my instructor helped me out with some muscle energy therapy and I felt way better. But I still kept my therapy appointment and felt a little bad when I went since I was "better". But the therapist watched me walk and noted that I was favoring one leg and we discovered that my saccrum was torqued and my pelvis out of alignment. He spent about 1.5 hours with my Wednesday, then I saw him again for 30 minutes Friday, though I felt way better on Friday. I have an appointment on Tuesday, but I"m feeling so much better in general, I hope that by continuing to go I can prevent any problems from returning.
I also found that I felt crummy at school because my clothes didn't fit. I didn't wan to get up in front of the kids because my shirt is scooching up, my pants are saggind down, my belly is hanging out, and I waddle (yes, people feel free to tell you how "cute" your waddle is). I have learned alot about being rude. Just because it is true does not mean you have to share it. So I bought a pair of khaki pants (that actually fit!) and a couple of other things. I'm also trying to buy a pair of dansko shoes on ebay- my first ever ebay purchase if it works. Wish me luck, only an hour left on my bid.
Monday, August 28, 2006
100 Things about me
1. I love my husband more each year we are married.
2. I think my know-it-all attitude is supposed to compensate for all the years I thought I was of low intelligence and ability.
3. I didn't think I was smart until about halfway through 10th grade.
4. I regret spending so much time with boyfriends in high school instead of with my friends.
5. I'm fascinated with running water (like the cats), especially rivers and streams but includes spring melting.
6. Someimes I'm afraid my husband isn't going to be faithful even though I cheated on him (in 1997, before we were married or engaged!)
7. I always wanted dance lessons but got cello and bassoon lessons instead.
8. I don't think I'm patient enough for teaching middle school.
9. I wish I had continued with physics after my undergrad, but went into teaching because I didn't think I was capable.
10. I can't believe that I'll love my baby more than my cats or husband!
11. I'm extremely messy even though my mother worked really hard to make me neat and clean.
12. I'm afraid my baby will have cognitive impairment and that I won't love it as much.
13. I love chocolate, but prefer white cake to chocolate cake most of the time.
14. I have a reputation for having an enormous appetite.
15. I love cross-country skiing.
16. I think I'm an excellent whistler.
17. I can't make that really loud whistle and wish I could.
18. I'm a terrible slow runner.
19. In high school track everyone had three events, but they told me to just do two (because I'm that bad).
20. I'm extrememly proud of bellydancing since I have no other athletic talents.
21. I watch children's movies and cartoon movies and don't usually enjoy them but watch them anyway.
22. I have terrible taste in picking out movies.
23. I watch lots of really bad movies.
24. I have only walked out of a move once: Singles.
25. I have not finished a few movies that I rented, including: Legally Blonde 2, date movie, and caligula.
26. The fist career I wanted was to be a paleontologist.
27. I'm proud of being a nerd.
28. I always wanted to wear glasses but my vision is persistently good.
29. I love NPR.
30. I download podcasts of Wait, Wait, don't tell me.
31. I like to think I'm technilogically savvy, but without my husband I couldn't even blog.
32. I think other people think I'm too blunt but I'm proud of being genuine.
33. I love gin and tonics and mojitos in addition to wine.
34. I love being pregnant.
35. I love how it feels when the baby moves, even when it has the hiccups and is slightly irritating.
36. I think people who smoke are crazy and don't understand how stopping could be harder than continuing something so gross.
37. I like politics but have to be careful not to get too riled up.
38. I thnk I'm open minded, but must be confronted with credible evidence before changing my mind.
39. I can admit when I'm wrong since it happens so much.
40. I'm afraid of worms.
41. I'm not afraid of spiders, but occasionally think they are creepy.
42. I'm good at remembering numbers.
43. I'm terrible at remembering names.
44. I am not good at remembering faces.
45. I wonder if my hearing is compromised, I often can't hear what people are saying if there is background noise.
46. I think I look like a man and try to wear earrings when my hair is pulled back.
47. I don't think my mom really likes me, even though I know she loves me. I'm too different from her.
48. I think my dad likes me, but I think he's sort of crazy so I don't know what that means.
49. I am often surprised that my husband loves me, but would never ask why because I don't want him to realize there aren't any good reasons.
50. I wish I had more friends, but I don't often meet people I really like that much.
51. I thought thinking of 100 things would be easy...but it is actually pretty hard.
52. I love to make things.
53. I love working with my hands.
54. I like to figure out problems and why things are broken.
55. I have worked as a waitress at two restaurants.
56. I worked at the paper mill for one summer.
57. I worked with the United Way for one summer.
58. I worked at Family Video for one year before being fired.
59. I worked at Redi Rental for years.
60. I worked as an RA in college but was not asked to return the following year.
61. I worked as a night receptionist from 3 am to 7 am in college.
62. When I lived alone after getting pseudofired from my RA job, my food budget was $3 a day.
63. I am cheap when it comes to spending money on others.
64. I cry helplessly at the movie "Rudy".
65. The thing that makes me cry in any movie is when one person sacrifices something for someone else (Rudy can have my position, coach).
66. I don't like babies very much, but love kids.
67. I really enjoy camping but my husband and I just camped for the first time together and probably won't get another chance to for a while.
68. I hate mornings and I am super crabby then.
69. I don't like dogs at all.
70. I think pet birds are stupid and gross.
71. I love french toast.
72. I waxed my underarms once in college.
73. I don't pay enough attention when I drive.
74. I love watching project runway and entourage.
75. I dislike Elizabeth on "The View".
76. I don't like popcorn and icecream as much as most people.
77. I always order the same menu item at most restaurants but it isn't the same at each place.
78. I can't usually drink a whole can of pop.
79. My parents didn't let me chew gum until I was about 10, and then not really.
80. I wanted Michael Jackson to adopt me when I was young.
81. I was afraid of the toilet when I was young and had nightmares about it.
82. I also had nightmares about a leprachaun filling my bedroom with my mom's loaves of home made wheat bread.
83. I love wheat bread now.
84. I always read at least one sentence before bed.
85. I sleep with a pillow under my head and one on top of it.
86. I love sleeping on my back, but am not supposed to in pregnancy.
87. My husband and I have separate comforters and it works wonderfully!
88. I could eat mayonaise out of the jar with a spoon I like it so mcuh.
89. I keep bags of chocolate chips in my cupboard for a snack.
90. I love the rain and occasionally stand in it just enjoying.
91. I love spring and watching the plants come up.
92. I like autumn but am usually too busy to really enjoy it.
93. I love family get-togethers and wish I lived closer to my family.
94. I love sailing.
95. I love swimming, but my doctor says I shouldn't unless I want another shoulder surgery.
96. one of my favorite songs is "under pressure" by david bowie and queen.
97. I like to drive fast, but hate jetskiis, snowmobiles, or atv's.
98. I'm a leo and think it fits me pretty well.
99. My middle name is Elaine and I really like it.
100. I like talking about myself.
2. I think my know-it-all attitude is supposed to compensate for all the years I thought I was of low intelligence and ability.
3. I didn't think I was smart until about halfway through 10th grade.
4. I regret spending so much time with boyfriends in high school instead of with my friends.
5. I'm fascinated with running water (like the cats), especially rivers and streams but includes spring melting.
6. Someimes I'm afraid my husband isn't going to be faithful even though I cheated on him (in 1997, before we were married or engaged!)
7. I always wanted dance lessons but got cello and bassoon lessons instead.
8. I don't think I'm patient enough for teaching middle school.
9. I wish I had continued with physics after my undergrad, but went into teaching because I didn't think I was capable.
10. I can't believe that I'll love my baby more than my cats or husband!
11. I'm extremely messy even though my mother worked really hard to make me neat and clean.
12. I'm afraid my baby will have cognitive impairment and that I won't love it as much.
13. I love chocolate, but prefer white cake to chocolate cake most of the time.
14. I have a reputation for having an enormous appetite.
15. I love cross-country skiing.
16. I think I'm an excellent whistler.
17. I can't make that really loud whistle and wish I could.
18. I'm a terrible slow runner.
19. In high school track everyone had three events, but they told me to just do two (because I'm that bad).
20. I'm extrememly proud of bellydancing since I have no other athletic talents.
21. I watch children's movies and cartoon movies and don't usually enjoy them but watch them anyway.
22. I have terrible taste in picking out movies.
23. I watch lots of really bad movies.
24. I have only walked out of a move once: Singles.
25. I have not finished a few movies that I rented, including: Legally Blonde 2, date movie, and caligula.
26. The fist career I wanted was to be a paleontologist.
27. I'm proud of being a nerd.
28. I always wanted to wear glasses but my vision is persistently good.
29. I love NPR.
30. I download podcasts of Wait, Wait, don't tell me.
31. I like to think I'm technilogically savvy, but without my husband I couldn't even blog.
32. I think other people think I'm too blunt but I'm proud of being genuine.
33. I love gin and tonics and mojitos in addition to wine.
34. I love being pregnant.
35. I love how it feels when the baby moves, even when it has the hiccups and is slightly irritating.
36. I think people who smoke are crazy and don't understand how stopping could be harder than continuing something so gross.
37. I like politics but have to be careful not to get too riled up.
38. I thnk I'm open minded, but must be confronted with credible evidence before changing my mind.
39. I can admit when I'm wrong since it happens so much.
40. I'm afraid of worms.
41. I'm not afraid of spiders, but occasionally think they are creepy.
42. I'm good at remembering numbers.
43. I'm terrible at remembering names.
44. I am not good at remembering faces.
45. I wonder if my hearing is compromised, I often can't hear what people are saying if there is background noise.
46. I think I look like a man and try to wear earrings when my hair is pulled back.
47. I don't think my mom really likes me, even though I know she loves me. I'm too different from her.
48. I think my dad likes me, but I think he's sort of crazy so I don't know what that means.
49. I am often surprised that my husband loves me, but would never ask why because I don't want him to realize there aren't any good reasons.
50. I wish I had more friends, but I don't often meet people I really like that much.
51. I thought thinking of 100 things would be easy...but it is actually pretty hard.
52. I love to make things.
53. I love working with my hands.
54. I like to figure out problems and why things are broken.
55. I have worked as a waitress at two restaurants.
56. I worked at the paper mill for one summer.
57. I worked with the United Way for one summer.
58. I worked at Family Video for one year before being fired.
59. I worked at Redi Rental for years.
60. I worked as an RA in college but was not asked to return the following year.
61. I worked as a night receptionist from 3 am to 7 am in college.
62. When I lived alone after getting pseudofired from my RA job, my food budget was $3 a day.
63. I am cheap when it comes to spending money on others.
64. I cry helplessly at the movie "Rudy".
65. The thing that makes me cry in any movie is when one person sacrifices something for someone else (Rudy can have my position, coach).
66. I don't like babies very much, but love kids.
67. I really enjoy camping but my husband and I just camped for the first time together and probably won't get another chance to for a while.
68. I hate mornings and I am super crabby then.
69. I don't like dogs at all.
70. I think pet birds are stupid and gross.
71. I love french toast.
72. I waxed my underarms once in college.
73. I don't pay enough attention when I drive.
74. I love watching project runway and entourage.
75. I dislike Elizabeth on "The View".
76. I don't like popcorn and icecream as much as most people.
77. I always order the same menu item at most restaurants but it isn't the same at each place.
78. I can't usually drink a whole can of pop.
79. My parents didn't let me chew gum until I was about 10, and then not really.
80. I wanted Michael Jackson to adopt me when I was young.
81. I was afraid of the toilet when I was young and had nightmares about it.
82. I also had nightmares about a leprachaun filling my bedroom with my mom's loaves of home made wheat bread.
83. I love wheat bread now.
84. I always read at least one sentence before bed.
85. I sleep with a pillow under my head and one on top of it.
86. I love sleeping on my back, but am not supposed to in pregnancy.
87. My husband and I have separate comforters and it works wonderfully!
88. I could eat mayonaise out of the jar with a spoon I like it so mcuh.
89. I keep bags of chocolate chips in my cupboard for a snack.
90. I love the rain and occasionally stand in it just enjoying.
91. I love spring and watching the plants come up.
92. I like autumn but am usually too busy to really enjoy it.
93. I love family get-togethers and wish I lived closer to my family.
94. I love sailing.
95. I love swimming, but my doctor says I shouldn't unless I want another shoulder surgery.
96. one of my favorite songs is "under pressure" by david bowie and queen.
97. I like to drive fast, but hate jetskiis, snowmobiles, or atv's.
98. I'm a leo and think it fits me pretty well.
99. My middle name is Elaine and I really like it.
100. I like talking about myself.
Thursday, August 24, 2006
End of Summer Report
Tasks accomplished:
1. Guest room reorganized and cleaned, including closet and bureau, and mopped floor (including under bed)
2. Closet cleaned and reorganized
3. Drawers cleaned and reorganized
4. Skinny clothes packed, maternity unpacked and labeled with owner initials
5. Baby's room cleaned out, teacher stuff packed up
6. Baby's room painted, including dresser/changing table
7. Made curtains and bassinett ruffle for baby's room
8. Cut, nailed, and painted baseboards and moulding in basement (including framing in and around windows)
9. Watched and helped husband hang suspended ceiling in basement :-)
10. Cleaned out workout room after it was used for a dumping ground for projects.
11. Cleaned out and reorganized all kitchen cabinets and drawers
12. re-caulked bathtub and restored tiles for former glory (including scouring shower caddy)
13. Put in new lock and deadbolt on house
14. Cleaned out laundry room
15. Cleaned out mechanical room
16. Set up math binders (for 16 units, included typed up labels for dividers for each lesson)
17. Painted hallway downstairs
18. Stained and polyurethaned doors for basement
19. Cleaned carpet in upstairs bathroom and entryway
20. Sewed two baby outfitsand learned alot about sewing
Scorecard:
Sick days: 1
Toga parties: 1
Days spent with niece and nephew: 6
beers: 3 (no, not at the same time)
trips sailing: 2
days at the beach: 3
Gallons of bleach used: 1
Pounds Gained: about 20
Speeding tickets: 1
I have to go back officially Tuesday, August 29. That is the end of a great summer :-)
1. Guest room reorganized and cleaned, including closet and bureau, and mopped floor (including under bed)
2. Closet cleaned and reorganized
3. Drawers cleaned and reorganized
4. Skinny clothes packed, maternity unpacked and labeled with owner initials
5. Baby's room cleaned out, teacher stuff packed up
6. Baby's room painted, including dresser/changing table
7. Made curtains and bassinett ruffle for baby's room
8. Cut, nailed, and painted baseboards and moulding in basement (including framing in and around windows)
9. Watched and helped husband hang suspended ceiling in basement :-)
10. Cleaned out workout room after it was used for a dumping ground for projects.
11. Cleaned out and reorganized all kitchen cabinets and drawers
12. re-caulked bathtub and restored tiles for former glory (including scouring shower caddy)
13. Put in new lock and deadbolt on house
14. Cleaned out laundry room
15. Cleaned out mechanical room
16. Set up math binders (for 16 units, included typed up labels for dividers for each lesson)
17. Painted hallway downstairs
18. Stained and polyurethaned doors for basement
19. Cleaned carpet in upstairs bathroom and entryway
20. Sewed two baby outfitsand learned alot about sewing
Scorecard:
Sick days: 1
Toga parties: 1
Days spent with niece and nephew: 6
beers: 3 (no, not at the same time)
trips sailing: 2
days at the beach: 3
Gallons of bleach used: 1
Pounds Gained: about 20
Speeding tickets: 1
I have to go back officially Tuesday, August 29. That is the end of a great summer :-)
Saturday, August 19, 2006
Bad Boys, Bad boys, Whatcha Gonna Do?
I'm pretty well-known among friends for being a scaredy-cat. When I was in my super running phase in college I would often go out late at night and after dark. Friends would show concern for my safety and my reply was always that I was more afraid of trolls or ghosts or the supernatural than some robber/rapist type person. I often forget to lock the doors at night, and even if Dave is away it doesn't really bother me. Well, I think that is changing. There were two incidents this week convincing me that I'm not in NM anymore.
The first happened during my sewing frenzy. I was happily sewing a little dress when I hear pounding on a door and someone say "this is bounty hunter, open up or it'll be knocked down". When I looked out the window I was relieved to find that he wasn't at MY door, but at the house next door (not on the driveway side). This is about 20 feet from the window of the room I was sewing in. This guy was wearing a black T-shirt that said "Bounty Hunter", had a giant flashlight, was bald and tatooed and generally menacing. I snuck out the front to cross the street to see what was going on better and see if the neighbor knew what was going on. She said said that next door lady's son must have done something wrong. Now, said son has heretofore been just generaly annoying. Mid 20's, lives with mom, people come to pick him up or drop him off late at night with loud rap music blaring These people also have some fear of getting out of their vehicles, because they just honk the horn. Alot. A few weeks ago, when it was unusually hot there was a man banging on the door wanting to install air conditioning and loser-son forgot/slept through it and so they were charged an extra $100 bucks and couldn't get air for another week (it was the hottest days of the summer). Anyway, I didn't even realize bounty hunters were real. This means that loser-son must have been arrested and jumped bail (this is the postulate of the other neighbor lady's son who looks as if he might be familiar with this situation).
I wasn't ever afraid of my neighborhood before, but it seemed just a little scarier knowing that not only was the next door neighbor a criminal at some level, but a bail-jumping criminal (which is indeed much worse in my opinion).
The second incident happened last night/this morning at 4 am. I usually wake up pretty easily, but I'm not sure what it was that awakened me. I looked out our bedroom window because I must have heard noise. There was some confused yelling, what looked like someone running across and into the back yard. Flashlights swinging wildly. Light over garage clicks on. At this point, Dave wakes up. Not because he heard anything, but becuase I was up and moving around trying to look out the window from the bed. He asked what was going on, I replied that there were people in our backyard and flashlights. Then into the light from the garage steps a figure. A policeman. I threw on my robe and run down to the side door where there is s cop car in the driveway and four cops and a k-9 unit (pretty dog). I asked what happened and after making some crack about me serving them breakfast, they said that someone stole a car, crashed it on the streed behind ours, and ran through our yard. He was apprehended in our yard in the back corner behind the garage.
Then I couldn't sleep for about two hours (Dave of couse was back to sleep quickly) but I eventually nodded off again around 6. This morning I went outside to see what happened. By my pond I have a little statue that was knocked down, and the lily pads are in a different position. I think he climbed the fence and landed in the pond. There is also a shirt (size 2x) laying on the ground there. Did he take it off to be harder to see or because it was all ponded up? In the back corner the top of one of the fence pieces is sort of broken off. He apparently had a hard time getting over the fence.
I think I'll make sure the doors are locked all the time now. Is our neighborhood unsafe?
The first happened during my sewing frenzy. I was happily sewing a little dress when I hear pounding on a door and someone say "this is bounty hunter, open up or it'll be knocked down". When I looked out the window I was relieved to find that he wasn't at MY door, but at the house next door (not on the driveway side). This is about 20 feet from the window of the room I was sewing in. This guy was wearing a black T-shirt that said "Bounty Hunter", had a giant flashlight, was bald and tatooed and generally menacing. I snuck out the front to cross the street to see what was going on better and see if the neighbor knew what was going on. She said said that next door lady's son must have done something wrong. Now, said son has heretofore been just generaly annoying. Mid 20's, lives with mom, people come to pick him up or drop him off late at night with loud rap music blaring These people also have some fear of getting out of their vehicles, because they just honk the horn. Alot. A few weeks ago, when it was unusually hot there was a man banging on the door wanting to install air conditioning and loser-son forgot/slept through it and so they were charged an extra $100 bucks and couldn't get air for another week (it was the hottest days of the summer). Anyway, I didn't even realize bounty hunters were real. This means that loser-son must have been arrested and jumped bail (this is the postulate of the other neighbor lady's son who looks as if he might be familiar with this situation).
I wasn't ever afraid of my neighborhood before, but it seemed just a little scarier knowing that not only was the next door neighbor a criminal at some level, but a bail-jumping criminal (which is indeed much worse in my opinion).
The second incident happened last night/this morning at 4 am. I usually wake up pretty easily, but I'm not sure what it was that awakened me. I looked out our bedroom window because I must have heard noise. There was some confused yelling, what looked like someone running across and into the back yard. Flashlights swinging wildly. Light over garage clicks on. At this point, Dave wakes up. Not because he heard anything, but becuase I was up and moving around trying to look out the window from the bed. He asked what was going on, I replied that there were people in our backyard and flashlights. Then into the light from the garage steps a figure. A policeman. I threw on my robe and run down to the side door where there is s cop car in the driveway and four cops and a k-9 unit (pretty dog). I asked what happened and after making some crack about me serving them breakfast, they said that someone stole a car, crashed it on the streed behind ours, and ran through our yard. He was apprehended in our yard in the back corner behind the garage.
Then I couldn't sleep for about two hours (Dave of couse was back to sleep quickly) but I eventually nodded off again around 6. This morning I went outside to see what happened. By my pond I have a little statue that was knocked down, and the lily pads are in a different position. I think he climbed the fence and landed in the pond. There is also a shirt (size 2x) laying on the ground there. Did he take it off to be harder to see or because it was all ponded up? In the back corner the top of one of the fence pieces is sort of broken off. He apparently had a hard time getting over the fence.
I think I'll make sure the doors are locked all the time now. Is our neighborhood unsafe?
Wednesday, August 16, 2006
Done with Jen's Baby's outfit!
I almsot don't want to give this away, I want to carry it with me so that I can show people how cute it is!! Cookie monster isn't the ideal model, but I figure he approximated a three month old baby (except for his neck, which I'm pretty sure is way to big for babies). the jacket is a ribbed knit material that will keep baby cozy. I think you can click the pics to see larger ones. The colors may seem untraditional, but I think Jen already has about 800 pink dresses. I like that this one is more fall/winter color oriented and is a nice change from pink and purple.
Feeling quite proud of myself
Monday I woke up and thought: just this one last free week before school obligations bring me back. I'll just relax.
Then a few hours went by and I was BORED! So I thought I'd use up some of hte excess material from the bassinett and make burp clothes or something. Then I went to the fabric store where there was a sale on everything! So I bought a pattern and some material and had the ladies help me find the notions to match. At first I was going to get two patterns, one for my baby and one for Jen's baby girl. But I didn't want to purchase material for the pattern I chose for my baby because the lady said I needed a stretchy fabric and I thought I should start with a simpler, non-stretchy one. i've never sewn from a pattern before, but I figured that since it's a pattern, its like following a recipe and you can't really go wrong.
Wrong. I probably spent an hour just reading the directions trying to make sense of them. I couldn't get ahold of my mom to ask questions and I really didn't know what I was doing and what alot of terms meant. But I figured I'd start and maybe the rest would start to make sense. It did.
I might have spent two hours on the sleeves (hey, they had gathers AND elastic and they are so super tiny sewing on them was ridiculous).By the time husband came home I was mostly done, just the buttons and holes were left. I felt so good, we went back to the store to buy material for the jacket. Then we came home and had dinner and about 9pm I figured i"d finish it off.
Wrong again. Spent about an hour and half doing three buttonholes. I had a lot of thread explosion and I kept rethreading the machine and practicing on another piece on which everything went fine, then I'd do on the actual material and SPROING thread everywhere. This morning I was up for the challenge again, and did the other 4 holes in about ten minutes and the buttons went well, and it is DONE! here it is:
And here is the picture from the pattern. You can see what the jacket looks like:
So I learned many things (including that if you are going to put in elastic, don't sew the pocket closed, what "finshing an edge" means, how to do buttonholes, how to do buttons properly, and that tiny things are a b**** to sew). Back to work!
Then a few hours went by and I was BORED! So I thought I'd use up some of hte excess material from the bassinett and make burp clothes or something. Then I went to the fabric store where there was a sale on everything! So I bought a pattern and some material and had the ladies help me find the notions to match. At first I was going to get two patterns, one for my baby and one for Jen's baby girl. But I didn't want to purchase material for the pattern I chose for my baby because the lady said I needed a stretchy fabric and I thought I should start with a simpler, non-stretchy one. i've never sewn from a pattern before, but I figured that since it's a pattern, its like following a recipe and you can't really go wrong.
Wrong. I probably spent an hour just reading the directions trying to make sense of them. I couldn't get ahold of my mom to ask questions and I really didn't know what I was doing and what alot of terms meant. But I figured I'd start and maybe the rest would start to make sense. It did.
I might have spent two hours on the sleeves (hey, they had gathers AND elastic and they are so super tiny sewing on them was ridiculous).By the time husband came home I was mostly done, just the buttons and holes were left. I felt so good, we went back to the store to buy material for the jacket. Then we came home and had dinner and about 9pm I figured i"d finish it off.
Wrong again. Spent about an hour and half doing three buttonholes. I had a lot of thread explosion and I kept rethreading the machine and practicing on another piece on which everything went fine, then I'd do on the actual material and SPROING thread everywhere. This morning I was up for the challenge again, and did the other 4 holes in about ten minutes and the buttons went well, and it is DONE! here it is:
And here is the picture from the pattern. You can see what the jacket looks like:
So I learned many things (including that if you are going to put in elastic, don't sew the pocket closed, what "finshing an edge" means, how to do buttonholes, how to do buttons properly, and that tiny things are a b**** to sew). Back to work!
Sunday, August 13, 2006
A day at the beach
Today we spent a lovely day at the beach. I had suggested that we do this and my husband was at first hesitant since he just came home and wanted the laying around the house that is necessary for relaxing. But he capitulated and we left around quarter to 11:00. We got to the beach at about noon and went down to the part in NM where you don't have to pay the state park fee. It was actually much nicer there since there was a short walk to the shore. Down at the pay area it feels like you have to walk a mile to get to the water. And if you forget something, walking back makes you so HOT and takes forever.
The key to our trip being so great was the hole. I found that laying at the beach is somewhat uncomfortable for a 7 months pregnant person. Not really supposed to lay on back, can't lay on front. So at when I was at the beach last time I dug a hole to put my belly into, thinking that I'd lay on belly. But that didn't work so well. So this time I dug a nice trench for my bootie. Then I took the partially inflated beach ball for a back pillow. This basically made a "craftmatic adjustable beach chair". It was perfect. We didn't even get burned, but got a nice layer of tan.
The water was cool, but refreshing. The waves were quite large with a strong riptide, but it was more fun that way. We swam a few times, built a little sandcastle, and read a little. We also walked along the beach. Then we got home with plenty of time to make a nice dinner, clean up around the house, and watch a movie.
We watched "V for Vendetta". I highly recommend this film. About ten mintues into it I said to Dave, "I like this movie" and he noted that it has only been ten mintues. But it really captured my interest. Good acting, good costume/scenery, good dialogue, good plot. I'm usually too distractable to just watch a movie. But I really watched the whole thing without doing anything else. That's a good sign.
The key to our trip being so great was the hole. I found that laying at the beach is somewhat uncomfortable for a 7 months pregnant person. Not really supposed to lay on back, can't lay on front. So at when I was at the beach last time I dug a hole to put my belly into, thinking that I'd lay on belly. But that didn't work so well. So this time I dug a nice trench for my bootie. Then I took the partially inflated beach ball for a back pillow. This basically made a "craftmatic adjustable beach chair". It was perfect. We didn't even get burned, but got a nice layer of tan.
The water was cool, but refreshing. The waves were quite large with a strong riptide, but it was more fun that way. We swam a few times, built a little sandcastle, and read a little. We also walked along the beach. Then we got home with plenty of time to make a nice dinner, clean up around the house, and watch a movie.
We watched "V for Vendetta". I highly recommend this film. About ten mintues into it I said to Dave, "I like this movie" and he noted that it has only been ten mintues. But it really captured my interest. Good acting, good costume/scenery, good dialogue, good plot. I'm usually too distractable to just watch a movie. But I really watched the whole thing without doing anything else. That's a good sign.
Friday, August 11, 2006
The frenzy continues
After I got my kitchen looking good, I had to pretty much vacuum the rest of the house (finally). I didn't want to track dirt into my pristine kitchen! Then I started on the bathroom. I re-caulked the tub, which is indeed lots of work. I was jammed into the bathtub (big belly and all) and about every 30 seconds I'd get a leg cramp and have to change position. Apparently leg cramps are a common pregnancy thing. That old caulk was TOUGH to get off. As I finally scraped it off, I carefully bleached the hell out of the tub praying that no mold would make it, then I applied the new stuff. Of course, the tube, which was old, busted and there was a big caulky mess on my hands (literally) and I had to run to the store to buy more. Well, when that was set I couldn't help but notice how dirty the floor was and I proceeded to bleach the hell out of that, too. I love bleach. Then I decided I needed no-bake cookies. In the middle of these I found I only had about 1 tablespoon of cocoa, so I had to go to the store for that, too. I came back, finished the cookies and well, they are gone now :-). This was all on Wednesday.
On Thursday, I had the misfortune of waking up quite early. If I don't eat a small meal before bed, I have a hard time sleeping and wake up out of hunger (now I now how babies feel). I rolled back and forth for about an hour and finally at 6 I just got up. This is nice, it makes for quiet and cool morning, but I had planned on running errands and nowhere is open at that ungodly hour. So I tromped downstairs and peeked in at the totally destroyed laundry room. Yep, gotta clean that too.
My husband has loads of beer stuff and I reorganized that and put everything into bins. I put all my wine stuff into a bin also (which I believe had been done before and then someone raided it). I found a bin of teaching stuff. I thought all of that had been moved into the attic, whoops. I cleaned out the paint cupboard (mostly just put away the cans I've been using all summer), mounted a wine rack, moved some stuff around and generally cleared the place out. It is now a much nicer place for my husband to do laundry.
Then I went into the "mechanical room". I don't know why dave calls it that, it is just the furnace room to me. That was even worse! You could hardly enter the room, let alone find anything in there. So I went to town in there. I ended up saving about 100 wine bottles and I'll have to get rid of about 50. When I was making wine on a regular basis, I asked people for bottle. Boy, do they deliver! Now that I haven't made wine in about a year (actually, more like a year and half), the bottles really build up. My next wine will be a port and I'll have to make that soon if I want it ready for when the baby comes!
I threw away loads of trash, moved boxes to the garage to be broken down, etc. I pulled out the small strip of carpet that was apparently the target of cat pee and bleached the floor underneath. I even replaced the furnace filter and added a scented thing that is supposed to smell up your whole house with fresh smell. I figure that is probably better than the bleach smell that is sure to overwhelm people when they enter.I got this all done by about noon. So I took a nap and then ran all my errands.
Today I had breakfast with ladies from work, caught up on what's going on and then went to school. I did a minimal amount of planning and headed home where I....didn't feel like working! I guess I found the end of it. Well, there isn't much really for me to do left. I'm considering putting in more shelves in the linen closet (we don't have good space for storing blankets). My garden of course looks terrible and I should attack that with the same vigour that hit my house. But it doesn't so much seem worth it. Not this late in the year.
The good news is that Dave comes home tomorrow :-) He'll go back to CA probably on Wednesday, but it'll be nice to see him. Only one week left before school responsibility starts again. I gotta make some beach time!
On Thursday, I had the misfortune of waking up quite early. If I don't eat a small meal before bed, I have a hard time sleeping and wake up out of hunger (now I now how babies feel). I rolled back and forth for about an hour and finally at 6 I just got up. This is nice, it makes for quiet and cool morning, but I had planned on running errands and nowhere is open at that ungodly hour. So I tromped downstairs and peeked in at the totally destroyed laundry room. Yep, gotta clean that too.
My husband has loads of beer stuff and I reorganized that and put everything into bins. I put all my wine stuff into a bin also (which I believe had been done before and then someone raided it). I found a bin of teaching stuff. I thought all of that had been moved into the attic, whoops. I cleaned out the paint cupboard (mostly just put away the cans I've been using all summer), mounted a wine rack, moved some stuff around and generally cleared the place out. It is now a much nicer place for my husband to do laundry.
Then I went into the "mechanical room". I don't know why dave calls it that, it is just the furnace room to me. That was even worse! You could hardly enter the room, let alone find anything in there. So I went to town in there. I ended up saving about 100 wine bottles and I'll have to get rid of about 50. When I was making wine on a regular basis, I asked people for bottle. Boy, do they deliver! Now that I haven't made wine in about a year (actually, more like a year and half), the bottles really build up. My next wine will be a port and I'll have to make that soon if I want it ready for when the baby comes!
I threw away loads of trash, moved boxes to the garage to be broken down, etc. I pulled out the small strip of carpet that was apparently the target of cat pee and bleached the floor underneath. I even replaced the furnace filter and added a scented thing that is supposed to smell up your whole house with fresh smell. I figure that is probably better than the bleach smell that is sure to overwhelm people when they enter.I got this all done by about noon. So I took a nap and then ran all my errands.
Today I had breakfast with ladies from work, caught up on what's going on and then went to school. I did a minimal amount of planning and headed home where I....didn't feel like working! I guess I found the end of it. Well, there isn't much really for me to do left. I'm considering putting in more shelves in the linen closet (we don't have good space for storing blankets). My garden of course looks terrible and I should attack that with the same vigour that hit my house. But it doesn't so much seem worth it. Not this late in the year.
The good news is that Dave comes home tomorrow :-) He'll go back to CA probably on Wednesday, but it'll be nice to see him. Only one week left before school responsibility starts again. I gotta make some beach time!
Tuesday, August 08, 2006
Nesting or just cleaning like normal people: you decide
As my other projects wind down I'm left with some "free" time before school starts. With my hubby in California I try to keep busy so I don't get as lonely. One of the things I've been meaning to do is make room in my kitchen for baby stuff. The drawers and cupboards were all packed and surely there are things I could get rid of to make room.
When you start a project like this, you should know that it will invariably lead to more. After cleaniing up one cupboard, I decided to move some stuff to a different cupboard. Uh-oh, that one needs cleaning and reorganizing, too. Before you know it, you're going full throttle with every pantry item and dish spread out as the cupboards get organized. I went through EVERY one. My husband will need a map when he gets home; I changed the location of many things also.
I made a big pile of junk that isn't necessary and moved it to the basement (the bad news is that organizing the basement is one of my next jobs...move it to the garage?). I also found myself scouring every surface. Top of the fridge. Side of the stove. Under the dishwasher handle. It is a good thing though, because that level of cleaning hasn't been done in the last five years or so. I mean, I'll clean well a couple of times a year, but not with all the reorganizing. Oh, then I finished by scrubbing the floor on my hands and knees. i'm tired!
Maybe I was inspired because my darling husband thoughfully straighted the house for me so that when I came home Sunday night even the bed was made! Maybe since I didn't have to worry about the straightening I was able to focus on the real cleaning.
My next job: I think I'll re-caulk the tub. Nesting or not? What do you think?
When you start a project like this, you should know that it will invariably lead to more. After cleaniing up one cupboard, I decided to move some stuff to a different cupboard. Uh-oh, that one needs cleaning and reorganizing, too. Before you know it, you're going full throttle with every pantry item and dish spread out as the cupboards get organized. I went through EVERY one. My husband will need a map when he gets home; I changed the location of many things also.
I made a big pile of junk that isn't necessary and moved it to the basement (the bad news is that organizing the basement is one of my next jobs...move it to the garage?). I also found myself scouring every surface. Top of the fridge. Side of the stove. Under the dishwasher handle. It is a good thing though, because that level of cleaning hasn't been done in the last five years or so. I mean, I'll clean well a couple of times a year, but not with all the reorganizing. Oh, then I finished by scrubbing the floor on my hands and knees. i'm tired!
Maybe I was inspired because my darling husband thoughfully straighted the house for me so that when I came home Sunday night even the bed was made! Maybe since I didn't have to worry about the straightening I was able to focus on the real cleaning.
My next job: I think I'll re-caulk the tub. Nesting or not? What do you think?
Sunday, August 06, 2006
Summer draws to a close with lovely days
This past week has been nice. With no major projects to occupy me, I was afraid I fall into the spiral of depressing boring solitude. Luckily, with my husband home, I had some interaction with other people and did accomplish things while at the same time relaxing.
I went into school a few days. I rearranged my student desks and rearranged my desk. I pretty much made it so that my teacher desk is right in front and I could go from my desk to the overhead project without getting out of my rolly chair. THis sounds lazy, but as a 6 month pregnant woman is not going to get less pregnant, I see it as an investment in my own future. Now is not the time to try for "Teacher of the Year". I'll be working instead towards, "Teacher who made it for 10 weeks". I also did some compulsive working. I'm a retentive binder freak. THis means that each unit I teach gets a binder. In science, the binder is huge and I just sort of pull stuff I like out and rearrange a little each year. In math, however, the lessons are pretty laid out so it required a divider for each lesson. Also, since our math curriculum is new next year, that was plenty to prepare. Oh, and I'm doing two grades of math. So 16 units had to be prepared with binders, dividers with lesson numbers and names printed from computer, natch, and smancy cover sheets and side labels. Oh, and tearing up the teacher books so that each lesson is in the right section. I'm glad I got this stuff done, but loads of things hang over my head. I still have a reasonable three weeks to get things under control, but the though of going back to school is sad indeed.
I was supposed to go with my sister to the Binder Park Zoo on Thursday, (they have giraffes!) but we got rained out (so I went to school again that day, instead).
On Friday, my mom came and we got a couple of nice big things from the baby store and had lunch. After lunch, mom left and I went home with Dave. About 60 seconds after we parted ways, I realized that my car keys were in mom's car! I then proceeded to dig through my purse frantically, papers flying everywhere (Dave was driving and he got pelted with receipts and what-not) as I'm cursing like a sailor dropping the F-bomb and adding some "mother"s to various words. I get out my new pretty cell phone and try to call mom. Oh, even though Dave has been reminding me to transfer my contacts for the last three days, I haven't done it. So then I'm madder (at me) and call siblings asking for mom's cell number. They both say, "Mom has a cell phone?".
Meanwhile, Dave is driving north on Beltline trying (in vain) to catch up with mom who isn't known for being a speedster. By the time we get to the highway, we've given up pursuit and I realize that I just went atomic for NO REASON! Could I get into my house? Yes, we had Dave's keys and the spare. Could I drive my car? Yes, Dave has my spare. Was there anything else I needed? No. Was I going to Muskegon anyway Satureday AND Sunday? yes, I could just get them back. Dave informed me that I was OFF his "Disaster Team" (by the way, Roland, you never made it in the first place...something about a hammer in your wife's face). I was so ashamed. I can't believe I totally freaked out. And my poor husband who was assaulted with purse contents as well as language I'm sure he doesn't want to hear coming out of his sweet wife's mouth. I'm going to blame it on pregnancy hormones, since they pretty much make you insane most of the time.
Saturday was a better day. Dave and I headed for Muskegon at about 10 am and planned a day at the beach. My sister and her kids were going to meet us and we were in the water when Dave looks up the beach and says, I think your sister and her kids are here. What does he see? On the horizon we see one child (gender unknown) with bright orange swimmies swinging arms like a monkey and running crazily toward the water in one direction. There is another smaller child holding nothing, but wearing a mysterious blue full-body-suit that is puffy crazily running the other direction toward the water. I mention that it's probably not Beth since she's nowhere around. Dave claims this is just further evidence that it indeed little Sophia and Sam. Sure enough, they approach closer and it is them. A few moments later, said sister lugs the rest of the beach stuff down to us. It was a fun day. Sophia is a fish and Sam tolerated the water much better. Uncle Dave was loads of fun and was busy launching Sophia in the water.
We came home around 5 pm and met up with Jen Flanigan who was bursting with excitement about her new purchase: Ipod 30 gig video. Dave was equally excited (if not more so). I was simply starving. We ate out at BW3's (I know there is no more 3) and that was okay. I missed getting a couple of blue moons, that was one of my favorite things to do with Dave. Then we came home and I made tapioca and chocolate chip cookies while Dave showed Jen his new computer and gave her some ipod lessons. I think they both enjoyed this. Meanwhile I ate only two cookies, but had two full glasses of milk and then thought I just might split into two.
The new pregnant experience is alternately starving and bursting. My usually food storage space has been compromised by baby (my uterus is apparently the size of a soccer ball now) and so I'll eat and then 15 minutes later start moaning about how full I am. I also start belching uncontrollably. Some people do this anyway, but I'm not much of a burper. Dave used to tease me that my burps were so wussy. Not anymore. Unfortunately, last night I didn't have cookie burps, it was hot wing burps. Not as nice the second time. But I love hot food anyway.
I have a family reunion in Muskegon today, so more beach :-) but Dave flies out to California today so he won't be joining me. This week is really the danger week with no projects and no Dave. So friends, give me lots to do and make many posts on blogs!
I went into school a few days. I rearranged my student desks and rearranged my desk. I pretty much made it so that my teacher desk is right in front and I could go from my desk to the overhead project without getting out of my rolly chair. THis sounds lazy, but as a 6 month pregnant woman is not going to get less pregnant, I see it as an investment in my own future. Now is not the time to try for "Teacher of the Year". I'll be working instead towards, "Teacher who made it for 10 weeks". I also did some compulsive working. I'm a retentive binder freak. THis means that each unit I teach gets a binder. In science, the binder is huge and I just sort of pull stuff I like out and rearrange a little each year. In math, however, the lessons are pretty laid out so it required a divider for each lesson. Also, since our math curriculum is new next year, that was plenty to prepare. Oh, and I'm doing two grades of math. So 16 units had to be prepared with binders, dividers with lesson numbers and names printed from computer, natch, and smancy cover sheets and side labels. Oh, and tearing up the teacher books so that each lesson is in the right section. I'm glad I got this stuff done, but loads of things hang over my head. I still have a reasonable three weeks to get things under control, but the though of going back to school is sad indeed.
I was supposed to go with my sister to the Binder Park Zoo on Thursday, (they have giraffes!) but we got rained out (so I went to school again that day, instead).
On Friday, my mom came and we got a couple of nice big things from the baby store and had lunch. After lunch, mom left and I went home with Dave. About 60 seconds after we parted ways, I realized that my car keys were in mom's car! I then proceeded to dig through my purse frantically, papers flying everywhere (Dave was driving and he got pelted with receipts and what-not) as I'm cursing like a sailor dropping the F-bomb and adding some "mother"s to various words. I get out my new pretty cell phone and try to call mom. Oh, even though Dave has been reminding me to transfer my contacts for the last three days, I haven't done it. So then I'm madder (at me) and call siblings asking for mom's cell number. They both say, "Mom has a cell phone?".
Meanwhile, Dave is driving north on Beltline trying (in vain) to catch up with mom who isn't known for being a speedster. By the time we get to the highway, we've given up pursuit and I realize that I just went atomic for NO REASON! Could I get into my house? Yes, we had Dave's keys and the spare. Could I drive my car? Yes, Dave has my spare. Was there anything else I needed? No. Was I going to Muskegon anyway Satureday AND Sunday? yes, I could just get them back. Dave informed me that I was OFF his "Disaster Team" (by the way, Roland, you never made it in the first place...something about a hammer in your wife's face). I was so ashamed. I can't believe I totally freaked out. And my poor husband who was assaulted with purse contents as well as language I'm sure he doesn't want to hear coming out of his sweet wife's mouth. I'm going to blame it on pregnancy hormones, since they pretty much make you insane most of the time.
Saturday was a better day. Dave and I headed for Muskegon at about 10 am and planned a day at the beach. My sister and her kids were going to meet us and we were in the water when Dave looks up the beach and says, I think your sister and her kids are here. What does he see? On the horizon we see one child (gender unknown) with bright orange swimmies swinging arms like a monkey and running crazily toward the water in one direction. There is another smaller child holding nothing, but wearing a mysterious blue full-body-suit that is puffy crazily running the other direction toward the water. I mention that it's probably not Beth since she's nowhere around. Dave claims this is just further evidence that it indeed little Sophia and Sam. Sure enough, they approach closer and it is them. A few moments later, said sister lugs the rest of the beach stuff down to us. It was a fun day. Sophia is a fish and Sam tolerated the water much better. Uncle Dave was loads of fun and was busy launching Sophia in the water.
We came home around 5 pm and met up with Jen Flanigan who was bursting with excitement about her new purchase: Ipod 30 gig video. Dave was equally excited (if not more so). I was simply starving. We ate out at BW3's (I know there is no more 3) and that was okay. I missed getting a couple of blue moons, that was one of my favorite things to do with Dave. Then we came home and I made tapioca and chocolate chip cookies while Dave showed Jen his new computer and gave her some ipod lessons. I think they both enjoyed this. Meanwhile I ate only two cookies, but had two full glasses of milk and then thought I just might split into two.
The new pregnant experience is alternately starving and bursting. My usually food storage space has been compromised by baby (my uterus is apparently the size of a soccer ball now) and so I'll eat and then 15 minutes later start moaning about how full I am. I also start belching uncontrollably. Some people do this anyway, but I'm not much of a burper. Dave used to tease me that my burps were so wussy. Not anymore. Unfortunately, last night I didn't have cookie burps, it was hot wing burps. Not as nice the second time. But I love hot food anyway.
I have a family reunion in Muskegon today, so more beach :-) but Dave flies out to California today so he won't be joining me. This week is really the danger week with no projects and no Dave. So friends, give me lots to do and make many posts on blogs!
Monday, July 31, 2006
Ultra sound pics
We had our ultrasound on July 6, and I almost forgot about posting it, or trying to. Tough to get a close up pic that is in focus and doesn't have a big flash bright spot. So here is a pic:
And a closer up pic: 
I totally think this baby has Dave's jawline, or at least Dave's Mom's jawline.
And here is Hobbes making himself at home in the bassinett we are borrowing from Dave's sister: 
Sunday, July 30, 2006
Birthday at Sea
Today is my birthday and we went with a maritime theme. Yesterday we went to Muskegon and I was treated to a great sail with cousin Frank (and then followed up with Chip Appreciation Day at the Marina). Today we saw "Pirates of the Caribbean II" and followed it up with dinner at Red Lobster. I liked the movie okay. As much as you can for a part II. I already knew 1) it was not a fully resolved ending as there is one more part to come and 2) there is a sci-fi aspect to it with crazy sea monster type stuff. So the chief complaints I heard from others are not mine. I thought it was just fine...I mean really, are you NOT going to see it? I did not, however, have a crazy experience with the popcorn and some dumb girl getting fired. That would have been more exciting.
There was a wonderful thunderstorm today and the temp dropped about 20 degrees (F). It was great, but Hobbes was scared out of his brain. He just crouched and slunk around hiding and didn't even want anyone petting him to comfort him.
There was a wonderful thunderstorm today and the temp dropped about 20 degrees (F). It was great, but Hobbes was scared out of his brain. He just crouched and slunk around hiding and didn't even want anyone petting him to comfort him.
Saturday, July 29, 2006
Done! with the nursery
The final touches on the baby's room were completed yesterday. I did the curtains and tie-backs earlier this week. The curtains I was a little disappointed with; I really should have made them about 5 inches longer so that when they got pulled back they still looked nice. But they were easy to make and increased my sewing confidence.
For the tie-backs I got some wooden discs from Hobby Lobby for $1 and put the monkey stamp on them. I think that is cute.The other project was the bassinett ruffle/liner. This was more daunting for me even though my sister gave me the old one that a friend of hers made her so I could use it as a pattern. It turned out beautifully!
Unfortunately, in the pictures, a certain somebody decided that this new baby thing needed to be taken for a test drive and Calvin is, once again, in the baby's bed. I'm not too worried about this- he seems to like novelty more than anything else. He's already stopped going into the crib. 
All in all, I'm quite pleased with the nursery. I'm thankful to the help of especially Beth and Susan and their guidance in things I don't know about. I'm having a better relationship with my Husky (sewing maching). We had some real conflicts in the past, but yesterday I came home from Field's at about 11:30, had lunch, and started working and was done by 3:00. That includes fixing minor errors...not bad math, just stupidness. I wouldn't say I'm "good" as sewing, but I might use the word competent for uncomplicated items.
Now I have to concentrate on school stuff, which I don't want to do, but come September, I'll be so glad if I get lots done.
Monday, July 24, 2006
Say hello to my leetle friend
Last weekend I was unloading groceries from my trunk while my car was in the garage and out of the corner of my eye I saw a furry lump in the corner of the garage by the garage door. At first I thought it was a dead cat. So sad. But then I noticed that the tail was gross and rat-like. So it was an opossum. Dead? No, I saw it breathing slowly. At first I was afraid I'd scare him and he'd jump out and give me rabies or something. Then I realized that opossums are known for..."playing opossum". Then I felt better, but it was till gross. I had to close the big door since I went out of town for a few days, but I left the "people door" open a crack. He was, thankfully, gone when I returned home on Wednesday. I also looked up info about opossums (Dave wondered if he was hanging by his tail so I wondered if that was a myth) and learned all sorts. Apparently fully grown ones can't really support their weight with their tail, but they have been seen carrying things like bundled sticks with it. Also, they have a pretty low chance of rabies since their blood temp is really low. Anyway, here is my new friend, Opie. 
On a completely unrelated note, I spent the day today with Laura and Jackson. We were going to go to the beach. We got rained on. We also got winded on. So we came home. I miss the beach.
Thursday, July 20, 2006
Time flies when you're...having summer
I can't believe how far into the summer it is! It is downright depressing to think of going back to school. I unfortunately checked my school email and found a message from around the 4th of July from a parent regarding her daughter's math grade. Are you kidding?? You are going to ask me about what was turned in, etc. in the middle of the damn summer? Where were you in May? Even June? And add to that, that her problem seems to be that the daughter said she turned stuff in, but it isn't showing in my gradebook. Hmm...maybe your 7th grade daughter is lying? Did you think of that? Especially since these parents are in two weeks after every marking period to bail out thier kids. Filled with anger even though it isn't even worth it to think about.
In other news, last weekend Dave's mom came to visit (if you read his blog, then you know a bit about that). Now I know where he gets his bizzare taste from. I say bizzare because he doesn't like much variety of food or things with real flavor for that matter. Who would have thought that someone would NOT like Italian food? I mean, I thought we couldn't go wrong. What does she like? She said crab and lobster. Well, if that doesn't happen for me, she's out of luck too. We did have a wonderful sail with Frank. And we had a great, but too short, day at the beach on Saturday. Can't wait to go back and do a proper whole day affair.
This week I was staying with a friend, who shall remain nameless but probably guessable, to take care of her after she had a pilanidal (sp?) cyst removed. That is about the grossest thing I've ever seen. Imagine a hole where your ass crack is, about 1.5 inches top to bottom, a half inch wide left to right, and almost an inch deep. Just a big open wound. Poor thing was a real trooper about it. Though the vicadin helps. I'd post pictures if she let me...and she might.
In the curtain department, I think that I've decided to simply choose the easiest path. No patterns, no extra tools, just a plain tabbed thing. I mostly just want to get it (and my other projects) done as soon as I can so I can maybe relax for a couple of weeks this summer.
In health news, I am feeling good pregnancy-wise. I have a bit of a cold, though. It peaked on Tuesday and Wednesday and I just "took it easy" today. Taking it easy is hard...I'm sick of laying around. Today was pretty lazy. I managed a two hour nap, but awoke due to Hobbe's snoring (he's so loud!). I finally left the house at 4pm and ran some errands. Now I just have to clean and put the house in order before Dave gets home. But I"m feeling much better tonight. And this baby...I decided to give it the Native American name "Kicking Bird".
I registered for baby stuff on Sunday and was quite fortunate to have my sister's help. There are alot of decisions to make. I hope we get alot of stuff because I had no idea so much was needed! I'm fortunate to have big family and great friends, so I probably will be all set by the time November comes around.
In other news, last weekend Dave's mom came to visit (if you read his blog, then you know a bit about that). Now I know where he gets his bizzare taste from. I say bizzare because he doesn't like much variety of food or things with real flavor for that matter. Who would have thought that someone would NOT like Italian food? I mean, I thought we couldn't go wrong. What does she like? She said crab and lobster. Well, if that doesn't happen for me, she's out of luck too. We did have a wonderful sail with Frank. And we had a great, but too short, day at the beach on Saturday. Can't wait to go back and do a proper whole day affair.
This week I was staying with a friend, who shall remain nameless but probably guessable, to take care of her after she had a pilanidal (sp?) cyst removed. That is about the grossest thing I've ever seen. Imagine a hole where your ass crack is, about 1.5 inches top to bottom, a half inch wide left to right, and almost an inch deep. Just a big open wound. Poor thing was a real trooper about it. Though the vicadin helps. I'd post pictures if she let me...and she might.
In the curtain department, I think that I've decided to simply choose the easiest path. No patterns, no extra tools, just a plain tabbed thing. I mostly just want to get it (and my other projects) done as soon as I can so I can maybe relax for a couple of weeks this summer.
In health news, I am feeling good pregnancy-wise. I have a bit of a cold, though. It peaked on Tuesday and Wednesday and I just "took it easy" today. Taking it easy is hard...I'm sick of laying around. Today was pretty lazy. I managed a two hour nap, but awoke due to Hobbe's snoring (he's so loud!). I finally left the house at 4pm and ran some errands. Now I just have to clean and put the house in order before Dave gets home. But I"m feeling much better tonight. And this baby...I decided to give it the Native American name "Kicking Bird".
I registered for baby stuff on Sunday and was quite fortunate to have my sister's help. There are alot of decisions to make. I hope we get alot of stuff because I had no idea so much was needed! I'm fortunate to have big family and great friends, so I probably will be all set by the time November comes around.
Friday, July 14, 2006
Baby Baker is here!
Okay, well maybe not the real baby, but someone who thinks he is. He's pretty much in the crib for all naps now. And Hobbes? He likes the crib, too, but underneath. 
Wednesday, July 12, 2006
Ok! I'm pretty much done. Just the curtains left to do. Here are the pics. You can see the how the window is too close to the wall to do regular curtain rod. I sort of put the crib together, but not really. We don't have directions (this came from my sister), nor do we have the actualy screws. The lamp is not supposed to go on the dresser; the plan is for the dresser to become the changing table.
I really like those blue drawers, who would have thought?? Thanks, Beth!
I plan on getting a glider rocker for the space where just the plain chair is, you can see it to the right of the cabinets.
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