tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38283468109511646342023-11-16T03:00:28.541-05:00I've been thinkingStories and thoughts from a mother and wife.J T http://www.blogger.com/profile/01198443870299430412noreply@blogger.comBlogger123125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3828346810951164634.post-993102242732647882012-01-26T08:52:00.000-05:002012-01-26T08:52:43.970-05:00Veggie talesSum up of last week's intro to veggies.<br />
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Veggies for last week: avacado, asparagus, cauliflower, spinich, leeks, red peppers<br />
I cooked up a family pack of chicken breast to use throughout the week, so it's all chicken this week<br />
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Monday, I made a quesadilla. I had sundried tomato wraps, cooked chicken, cheese, salsa, frozen spinich. Put together, and voila, dinner. It was pretty good and filling. I was surprised.<br />
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Tuesday, was big salad night. M even ate the leeks and red peppers and didn't complain about them. Yet more food off his list of things he doesn't like. I used the avacado to try to make a salad dressing out of it with Greek yogurt. I was not a fan. M liked it. So, not a total loss, but not a huge success either.<br />
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Wednesday, I tried to make a cauliflower mash to go with the chicken. I used a 2/3 block of cheddar, 1/4 cup parmasean and still we were not fans of the cauliflower. So, with all that cheese not making a bit of difference, cauliflower is on the list of Not Going to Touch It veggies. I had some tomatoes instead and M opted for peas. At least we still ate veggies.<br />
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Thursday, spinich and tomato grilled cheese. <br />
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Friday was a success. I was just trying to use up stuff. The last of the chicken, a couple open boxes of pasta, a red pepper, half a leek. Surprisingly, cook the pasta, heat the rest of the stuff in a pan with some garlic and oil, and it was mighty tasty. It even was said to be a make again meal. Woot! I also made parmasean roasted asparagus. I thought it was edible, but not much more. AJ was not a fan at all, and M thought it was great. So, I guess asparagus will go back on our grocery list again at some point. <br />
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I was so surprised I actually made, and ate, so many veggies and actual dinners last week. It was nice to get back to cooking and creating in the kitchen again.<br />
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Still need to get to work on the exercise portion of things.J T http://www.blogger.com/profile/01198443870299430412noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3828346810951164634.post-14060205275649085262012-01-18T15:19:00.000-05:002012-01-18T15:19:09.321-05:00So big so bigThe girls are growing and getting too big too fast for my liking.<br />
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C has rolled over, belly to back, three times. She's only 3 weeks old, that should not be happening! Granted, they were just a result of frustration on her part and no actual control over her movements, but it just means she's way too strong. Okay, edit that: she just rolled over again while I was typing this, and she was not fussing at all. Yikes!!!<br />
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Her 3 week appointment was yesterday. She weighed in at 8 pounds 3 ounces, 21.25 inches. She's measuring 50% for weight and head size, 75% for length. I can't believe she still isn't at AJ's birth weight, but she'll be holding her own with her strength alone. <br />
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She also has an umbilical hernia. Common I know, my nephew had one. Her pedi said it was on the larger size, so it may not heal by itself, but they won't do anything to fix it until she's 5-6 years old, so no rush in that department. She's on 3 ounces of formula and will sometimes eat more if she's just slept for a while. Porker.<br />
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On to AJ. I realized I never marked down any of her great words/phrases. She makes me laugh all the time and I know I'll forget her great words soon. So here are some of her gems:<br />
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I got bizzy = I got dizzy, but she refuses to say the word with the d, so, yeah, she's a charmer at parties. <br />
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Juice couch = Capri Sun juice pouch. I love the look on people's faces when she asks for that one<br />
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Bunny Chocolate = chocolate milk (hot bunny chocolate = hot cocoa). However she has no idea whether we actually put the chocolate into her milk, so it works out great for us. She won't ask for milk, just bunny chocolate.<br />
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My Pink Baby = C. She loves her sister, good thing we didn't have a boy. I'm not sure if he'd like being the pink baby.<br />
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These are all the ones I can think of at the moment. <br />
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My girls are growing so bigJ T http://www.blogger.com/profile/01198443870299430412noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3828346810951164634.post-92114505346019129772012-01-11T12:23:00.000-05:002012-01-11T12:23:36.414-05:00Two weeksTwo weeks ago I was in the hospital, watching a Top Chef marathon, waiting for the OB to come and break my water to get things going. <br />
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Today, AJ has school. I love that girl, but she was awake and wanting to play at 3AM, I was never so happy to pay for someone else to watch my child than this morning. I am loving spending some one-on-one time with the little. She's so alert and is really trying to focus on my face when I talk to her. Best of all though, when it's time to sleep, she does! That is the most amazing part. I relish every nap and never expect her to do it again. I don't want to jinx us, but it has been heaven to have a newborn that doesn't fight sleep. <br />
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As of this morning I'm 7 pounds from pre-pregnancy weight and spent a part of the morning packing up my maternity clothes to send off to Goodwill this weekend. My unofficial, and clothed, weigh-in of C showed 8lbs 8oz (AJ's birth weight). It's amazing to think that after two weeks, she's still smaller than her sister. AJ was our "Tank", C is our "Pipsqueek". <br />
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She is super strong though. She even rolled over already. It was a total fluke, just one of those things where she was mad enough and sort of threw her body which just happened to flip over. I can't believe she is strong enough to do that though. She'll be able to take on her sister in no time.J T http://www.blogger.com/profile/01198443870299430412noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3828346810951164634.post-79884808737042444612012-01-09T09:11:00.000-05:002012-01-09T09:11:12.220-05:00No more excusesAfter the birth of C, I lost my last excuse. <br />
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After I had AJ, I lost 30 pounds, which still left me 10 pounds higher than I was before getting pregnant. Those 10 pounds stuck around mainly because I never did anything to get rid of it. I accepted those 10 as not an issue. I just figured I was going to gain more the next time I got pregnant, so why bother to fight against that last bit of gain. <br />
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Now that I've had C, I lost 25 of the 35 pounds I gained in that pregnancy. So, I am now 20 pounds heavier than I was before any kids. Since we are pretty sure we're now done with having kids, I have no more excuses (not that the one I was using was a good one). <br />
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M and I discussed how we really need to eat better, (read: make actual dinners with veggies and not ask AJ what she wants and have nuggets or hot dogs every night). We made a list of veggies we like (a very short list), veggies we're willing to try, and veggies we will not touch no matter how much cheese sauce is on top. Sadly, to create this list we had to open up a list online of vegetables. After thinking of green beans and peas, we were at a loss of what other veggies there are. So sad, I know.<br />
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Over the weekend I spent a half hour in the produce department of our grocery store. I had to stick near my cart or I'd never figure out which one was mine. My cart usually has a bag of apples and a bag of potatoes, then I'm done with the produce department. After consulting our list of vegetables, I decide to pick a few off the "try" list and then bulk up on stuff for salads, which I know we'll eat without a big issue. <br />
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I got a head of cauliflower, an avacado, and asparagus. I'm not sure exactly what I'll be doing with each of these, but it was a good start. Hopefully we can get everyone in the house eating a bit better. Since I'm home for at least the next five weeks, I have no excuse to not make a real dinner every night we're all home. <br />
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Next step will be exercising. I picked up a pedometer/heart rate/stop watch thing since it was much cheaper than a gym membership. I'm really hoping to make the Couch to 5K work. I am anticipating the 20-30 minutes alone will be a good mental break as well as the physical benefits. Thankfully, so far this winter has been almost non-existent, so going out to run along the streets in the neighborhood won't be hindered by the snow, unless I just jinxed myself. <br />
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Fingers crossed this works out.J T http://www.blogger.com/profile/01198443870299430412noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3828346810951164634.post-91349163376387809452012-01-05T07:39:00.000-05:002012-01-05T07:39:34.927-05:00First Time DaddyI'm not sure what was up with M last night, but if I didn't know better, I'd swear he had never been the parent of a newborn before. AJ wanted to play with me, so since M was just texting on his phone, I gave C to him and went to chase AJ around the house (one of her favorite games). Well, C was on his lap, squawking, putting fists in her mouth, shaking her head all around, and M was still texting. On one pass through the living room in chase of AJ, I ask M if he plans on feeding C anytime soon. <br />
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He grabs the rest of an older bottle out of the fridge (about an ounce and a half) and makes another bottle (about two ounces). I hold my tongue and just let him do his thing. I figured he was maybe just planning on having back up incase the first bottle wasn't quite enough. <br />
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When he starts trying to feed her, his phone rings. He can't figure out how to hold the bottle and C and talk on his phone, so he hands off C. How does he think I'm going to spend the days with two kids, a dog and basic house chores? <br />
<br />
AJ and I are now playing Don't Break the Ice and I hear M yell out in frustration. C had spit up, quite a bit actually, all over herself and M. I go to check if he needs help and notice both bottles are empty. It had only been maybe 10 minutes since he started feeding her. I no longer want to help. Seriously?! I have to ask "what did you think would happen when you're trying to put nearly four ounces of liquid in a belly that is at most two ounces big?" His response "I burped her like three times". Um... ok. <br />
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He gets up, takes C to get changed. We do the changes on our bed and just put a hospital chuck down first, since we don't have a changing station. While I'm playing with AJ I see him pull the blanket off our bed, throw it on the floor, finish changing C and then wraps himself up in the Moby. This gets me chuckling, but I try not to let him see. He brings C down to the basement with him to wash the blanket. When he comes up he tells me that C missed the chuck. <br />
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The whole evening was a comedy of errors for him. I had to explain what feeding cues look like and not to recline her while eating or for a good long time after eating. He was always right there helping and being a part of AJ's early life, I think it's hilarious that he seems to have forgotten entirely how to care for a baby. <br />
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Oh, and just because I'm so happy about it, six days post birth and I'm able to squeeze into my pre pregnancy pants. WooHoo!!!J T http://www.blogger.com/profile/01198443870299430412noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3828346810951164634.post-63681191659622742902012-01-02T21:28:00.000-05:002012-01-02T21:28:22.402-05:00Over Before It BeganSo our breastfeeding journy has ended. I know it went pretty quick. I never thought I'd give up after just five days. But apparently there were a lot of things about breastfeeding that I never thought about.<br />
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I knew it would be difficult. I knew all the feedings would be on me. I knew I ran the risk of the pain of latch problems, clogged ducts, mastitis. I knew I'd be dealing with the stress of how much she's eating, how much to pump, when to pump, etc. Basically, what I knew was that it would be tough, but it would mainly be tough on me. I would be the one to go through this, and I was okay with that.<br />
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Here's what I didn't know. I didn't know how hard it would be to get what the LC called a picture perfect latch to become actual feeding. I didn't know how to make a baby just close her mouth and suck. I didn't know how much time and effort it would take to try to get milk to come in. I didn't know I would have to spend days with a baby on my bare skin, eating all the prefered lacto inducing foods, and still not have any milk to show for it. I didn't know I'd ignore AJ for days just to try to get C to eat anything at all. I didn't know I'd resent M for having the free time to play with AJ. I didn't know I could pump and pump and pump and only have one tenth of an ounce to show for it. I didn't know I would end up basically starving my baby because my body just didn't want to work the way I thought it would. <br />
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Last night, after my crying, C's crying and M just looking lost, we broke out the bottles. C took one and she ate. She gulped that thing down so fast, I had to keep taking it out so she could breathe and swallow. She was starved. Once she ate, she slept. She slept more soundly than I had ever seen her. And she had a nice wet diaper after. She was finally content. This morning, I attempted the breast routine again, one last time. I did the sugar water again, but she wasn't having any of it. I decided in a last effort before giving up, I'd go to a breastfeeding support group that was held today. What I saw was 20 very supportive and friendly women, all having issues with breastfeeding. Their babies were at all ages, and every one of them was having an issue. At that point, I felt okay in the decision to stop forcing it. <br />
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So, we all went to lunch as a family and enjoyed ourselves for the first time in days. I played with AJ while M fed C. It was such a weight off my shoulders. <br />
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Then, tonight, it started. I do believe my milk is finally making it's appearance. Now that we came to the acceptance of formula, I get that choice back. However the choice now is to pump only and keep with the bottle, or try to re-teach C to take to the breast. After much discussion, M and I decide it's just not worth the stress. AJ was formula fed, we are used to it and we just don't want to bring this back into the mix again. I was so torn all day. I cried more than I have in a long time. Then, I got a sign that we made the right choice for us. C pooped for the first time since late Friday night! <br />
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I am all smiles tonight as I bind my chest.J T http://www.blogger.com/profile/01198443870299430412noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3828346810951164634.post-87585188010880217312011-12-30T13:54:00.000-05:002011-12-30T13:54:05.415-05:00C's Birth Story12/28<br />
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M and I arrived at the hospital at 6:45AM. We were set up in a room to await shift change and the OB to let us know what was going to happen. About 5 minutes later the OB comes in and asks what things were going on the day before. I tell him what I was told after the internal on Tuesday, that there has been no progress since the week before, still 2cm, thick and head high. He asks if they did a membrane sweep. I respond with yes. He asks if there was bloody show, and I respond with no. He said they didn't do it right then, and he'll be doing it again. Wholy Moly did he do a sweep. He also said that I was a 3, thin, but the head was still high. He believed that once the meds started we'd be having a baby by mid afternoon. <br />
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Everything was right on track for that prediction. The Oxytocin was started around 8:30. There were some contractions, but I barely noticed them. M and I put on a Top Chef All Stars marathon and just wondered around the room. Around noon the OB comes in to check things out and breaks my water. He still thinks mid afternoon. I'm at a 4-5cm at that point. <br />
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Still the contractions aren't too bad. I can definitely feel them, but nothing horrible. Every half hour to hour the Oxytocin is bumped up by 2, so it was at about a 12 at that point. I ask for a labor ball around 1, and the nurse bumps up the meds one last time. At that point the contractions were getting much more painful, but I was still able to breathe through them. The OB came in around 2 to check again. 7cm. He said he'd be back in a bit since I'll be ready soon. He has now changed his prediction to late afternoon. My mother came in around that time and her, M and I were just talking with each other and the nurse, while still watching Top Chef. The contractions were much more intense, so I had a lot of breaks in the conversation. Next internal still showed 7cm. I asked for some Nubane to take the edge off and that bought me another hour. Unfortunately I was still at 7cm after that hour. Then the pain was intense again.<br />
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I asked for more Nubane, but it wasn't doing anything to take the edge off. I went through a few more contractions, but it was too much. The nurse offered to do another internal and we agreed that if I was still at 7cm, she'd call for the epi. Still 7cm, bring on the drugs!<br />
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I got the epi all done and feeling great around 7PM. I still could wiggle my toes and my lungs felt tight when a contraction hit, but thank goodness the pain was gone. The OB told me to rest. I could either relax my body enough to get past that pesky 7cm, or I'd at least get some rest to keep going later. Sadly the nurse I had all day had to leave. She was so bummed to know it was all so close but her shift was over. <br />
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An hour later the OB comes in, checks, and tells me we're good to go. Unfortunately I can't feel anything in order to push, so they back off the epi. About 15 minutes later (8PM) the nurses set me up with M on one side, my mother on the other and explain how I'm going to push. She tells me to do some test pushes. After two contractions C is crowning. One nurse gets the OB. He comes in, sets up, and 2 contractions later C has arrived. 8:20PM, 7 pounds 12 ounces, 21 inches. <br />
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No tear, no hemhorage, no issues at all with me. C did take a big gulp of fluid, so there were some feeding issues with that, but nothing else. She spent the night with me and H in our room, and it was fantastic!<br />
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We're even breastfeeding. So far so good with that. It's an adjustment and there have already been times I thought of how easy formula would be, like the 4 straight hours she was attached to me last night, but we're hanging in there. I reached my first goal, and we made it through the hospital stay without formula. Next goal will be to make it to a week. <br />
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Such an incredible experience the whole day was. It was such a difference than with AJ, that I almost got sad that we have no plans to ever have that experience again. <br />
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We are so in love with the precious C.J T http://www.blogger.com/profile/01198443870299430412noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3828346810951164634.post-73758974984594027972011-12-27T16:39:00.000-05:002011-12-27T16:39:16.042-05:00HDBD earlyHow Far Along: 40w 6d<br />
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Total Weight Gain: I've lost track, but I think it's close to 30 for a total at this point. Eh, not bad really.<br />
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Maternity Clothes: Yep, but I can still fit into some of my non-mat t-shirts<br />
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Sleep: Insomnia is still there occasionally<br />
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Cravings or Aversions: I wanted OJ more than anything else in the world for a day. That's over now.<br />
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Best Moment This Week: Hopefully the birth of this girly tomorrow. <br />
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Movement: Constant and crazy.<br />
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Gender: Girl.<br />
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Labor Signs: Ultrasound showed lots of room and lots of fluid. The tech even said that if she didn't know my due date she'd figure I still had a few weeks to go. Fantastic! Non Stress Test for half an hour showed 0 contractions. 2cm, thick with the head high. So no, no signs of labor on my own in my future.<br />
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Belly Button in or out: sort of out.<br />
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What I miss: The thought of going into labor on my own.<br />
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What I'm Looking Forward to: meeting this little girl<br />
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Weekly Wisdom: Make plans, and life happens <br />
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Milestones: Experiencing my first induction tomorrow<br />
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What the baby is up to: No good. She is way to comfy and stubborn for my own good.J T http://www.blogger.com/profile/01198443870299430412noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3828346810951164634.post-77944498832558477772011-12-21T08:14:00.000-05:002011-12-21T08:14:26.028-05:00HDBDHow Far Along: 40w<br />
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Total Weight Gain: I've lost track, but I think it's close to 30 for a total at this point. Eh, not bad really.<br />
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Maternity Clothes: Yep, but I can still fit into some of my non-mat t-shirts<br />
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Sleep: Insomnia is still there. I think it's more stress than anything else at this point. I really wanted this little one to make her appearance before Christmas, but that doesn't look hopeful. I'm guessing she'll make her debut sometime over the weekend, so I'll miss Christmas gatherings and end up with the OB I don't like. <br />
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Cravings or Aversions: Nothing really<br />
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Best Moment This Week: Not really the best moment, since that would entail this girly to come out on her own, but an end date is in sight. Eviction procedures will commence one week from today.<br />
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Movement: Constant and crazy.<br />
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Gender: Girl.<br />
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Labor Signs: LOTS of Braxton Hicks, but no real contractions. A quicky internal said about 2cm and soft, but the head is still pretty high.<br />
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Belly Button in or out: sort of out.<br />
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What I miss: Not constantly thinking about the time of the arrival vs Christmas gatherings.<br />
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What I'm Looking Forward to: meeting this little girl<br />
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Weekly Wisdom: Make plans, and life happens <br />
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Milestones: Done<br />
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What the baby is up to:<br />
Happy due date -- you made it! Since 40 weeks was the deadline you set for baby, you’ve probably already made sure the bassinet is made up, the car seat is installed and your hospital bag is by the door. Now, do some little things you might have forgotten, like making sure your cell phone is fully charged before you go to bed and the car is filled with gas. Some moms-to-be also choose to put a waterproof mattress cover on their bed, just in case their water breaks in the middle of the night. It’s not a must-do, but it’s not a bad idea either, especially because once baby comes, there might be other messes on or around your bed. Week 40 can be mentally rough, since you’ll probably be constantly wondering when baby will decide to finally make his entrance and question every twinge you have. Try not to stress, and rest assured that baby will arrive when he’s ready -- and your body will give you the right signals that it’s time.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i184.photobucket.com/albums/x200/JMT678/belly%20pics/Belly%20comparisons/2011-12-21_07-44-20_118.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i184.photobucket.com/albums/x200/JMT678/belly%20pics/Belly%20comparisons/2011-12-21_07-44-20_118.jpg" width="179" /></a></div>J T http://www.blogger.com/profile/01198443870299430412noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3828346810951164634.post-87609227930120093222011-12-07T10:08:00.000-05:002011-12-07T10:08:17.534-05:00HDBDHow Far Along: 38w<br />
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Total Weight Gain: 21 pounds. So happy for that. My appointment after Thanksgiving showed a 5 pound gain in two weeks. Thankfully, the following week showed a 4 pound loss. Amazing what the difference in appointment time (5:00PM for the gain, 8:30AM for the loss), and no holiday eating, can do.<br />
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Maternity Clothes: Yep, but I can still fit into some of my non-mat t-shirts<br />
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Sleep: Two Tums before bed helps with the heartburn. The past couple nights I've been wide awake for hours and had to move to the couch so my flopping around wouldn't keep M up. One of us needs sleep with AJ's issues.<br />
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Cravings or Aversions: I really wanted a Boston Cream Pie after watching The Best Thing I Ever Ate, on Food Network weeks ago. I picked up the ice cream version. I'll never eat it again, but at least I stopped thinking about the pie.<br />
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Best Moment This Week: Today is the 7th. Which means if this girl is going to keep up the birthday pattern set by the others (AJ 8/7, misscarriage 1/7, nephew 9/7, niece 6/7, anniversary 6/7, brother 11/7) However with my lack of any impending labor feelings, it looks like this one will skip on that tradition.<br />
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Movement: Constant and crazy, and a little painful at this point.<br />
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Gender: Girl.<br />
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Labor Signs: Sadly, nothing major.<br />
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Belly Button in or out: sort of out.<br />
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What I miss: bending, having a lap, standing without peeing myself<br />
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What I'm Looking Forward to: meeting this little girl<br />
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Weekly Wisdom: Make plans, and life happens <br />
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Milestones: Any day now...<br />
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What the baby is up to:<br />
Yow! If you feel a sort of lightening bolt running up and down your legs (and in your crotch), don’t freak out. At 38 weeks, baby’s probably sitting pretty low in your pelvis, which means he’s bumping into all kinds of nerves down there -- including some pretty sensitive ones you might not know you had. Be on the lookout for signs of labor, including contractions that come on stronger, at more regular intervals, and the “bloody show.” It could happen any day now -- or it might not be for a few weeks. Until then, try to relax.J T http://www.blogger.com/profile/01198443870299430412noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3828346810951164634.post-72001082985076034152011-11-27T06:46:00.000-05:002011-11-27T06:46:57.539-05:00AJ vs Sleep, (fight or surrender)Once again, I come back here just to try to figure out what to do with AJ and her sleeping issues. <br />
<br />
How does one decide when a battle is worth fighting, or when to surrender for now, regroup and try again later?<br />
<br />
AJ still wakes up. She still yells, cries, pleads. All she wants really is to sleep on the couch. If we fight the battle, she will wake up 1-6 times a night, no one in the house gets a decent night sleep and is therefore worse of the following day. AJ will also be up for the day by 5AM, at the latest. If we give in, and move her to the couch. She sleeps! She sleeps almost uninterrupted until around 6AM, sometimes later. M or I sleep on the couch with her too though, but it's a quiet <br />
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So, the path to a good night sleep is to let her sleep on the couch. The question then becomes, is sleep of any form more important than good sleeping habits? <br />
<br />
We were really hoping to get AJ in a good sleeping situation before the new baby comes along, but it looks like once again, our plans are laughed at, and new resolutions need to be found.J T http://www.blogger.com/profile/01198443870299430412noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3828346810951164634.post-80745385082359945512011-11-15T15:10:00.000-05:002011-11-15T15:10:13.723-05:00Ah, now I get itThe past few days I've had a lot of comments about not lasting until my due date, being huge, etc., etc., etc.<br />
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I didn't think much of it. I know I have a belly, but I didn't see why the sudden fuss. Until now<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i184.photobucket.com/albums/x200/JMT678/2011-11-02_08-09-36_906.jpg?t=1320238633" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i184.photobucket.com/albums/x200/JMT678/2011-11-02_08-09-36_906.jpg?t=1320238633" width="179" /></a></div>This is 33 weeks. In my head, this is what I still look like.<br />
However, I found out today that I now look like this<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i184.photobucket.com/albums/x200/JMT678/2011-11-15_13-03-16_134.jpg?t=1321385713" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i184.photobucket.com/albums/x200/JMT678/2011-11-15_13-03-16_134.jpg?t=1321385713" width="179" /></a></div>35 weeks. Same shirt, same awesome photo location of the office bathroom. <br />
<br />
Huh, I remember there being wrinkles in that shirt.J T http://www.blogger.com/profile/01198443870299430412noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3828346810951164634.post-35789086566054720522011-11-09T11:51:00.000-05:002011-11-09T11:51:44.423-05:00HDBDOkay, so it's been a while. Should be interesting to see what has changed in the past month.<br />
<br />
How Far Along: 34w<br />
<br />
Total Weight Gain: According to my first appointment, I'm up a total of 19 pounds. Still pretty excited about that<br />
<br />
Maternity Clothes: Yep, but I can still fit into some of my non-mat t-shirts<br />
<br />
Sleep: Two Tums before bed helps with the heartburn. However, due to a cold and coughing, I have pulled muscles on both sides of my ribs. Add back pain and there is absolutely no way to sleep in bed right now. Hello couch, looks like we're going to be spending a lot of time together. <br />
<br />
Cravings or Aversions: Nothing lately. I'm bummed by this. With AJ I wanted root beer all the time, and it was the best tasting root beer ever. Nothing tastes as good as satisfying a craving.<br />
<br />
Best Moment This Week: As of today, whenever I go into labor it will end with a baby. No stopping us now.<br />
<br />
Movement: Constant and crazy. Another non-sleeper I'm sure<br />
<br />
Gender: Girl.<br />
<br />
Labor Signs: Some braxton hicks, but nothing major.<br />
<br />
Belly Button in or out: pretty flat most of the time.<br />
<br />
What I miss: bending. I never realized how much I enjoy bending at the waist<br />
<br />
What I'm Looking Forward to: working on the girls' room<br />
<br />
Weekly Wisdom: Just because I'm ready to be done being pregnant does not mean I want this baby to come early. <br />
<br />
Milestones: I'm not sure of any at this point. <br />
<br />
What the baby is up to:<br />
Watch what you say! Your curious baby is listening in to your conversations at 34 weeks -- and might enjoy a lullaby or two -- so go ahead and sing to him. Some say that baby will recognize songs mom sings while he’s in the womb, and may even be more easily soothed by them if he’s used to them once he’s on the “outside.” At week 34, you might breathe a little easier, since baby may descend lower into your pelvis and give your lungs some space. (Ahh!) Of course, some babies don’t do this until the day they’re born, so we’re not making any guarantees. The pitfall of this descent, of course, is even more pressure on your bladder, so be prepared to make even more trips to the ladies room over the coming weeks.J T http://www.blogger.com/profile/01198443870299430412noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3828346810951164634.post-78382073779089116542011-10-06T08:02:00.000-04:002011-10-06T08:02:55.740-04:00HDBD, sort ofHow Far Along: 29w<br />
<br />
Total Weight Gain: According to my first appointment, I'm up a total of 13 pounds. Yay!<br />
<br />
Maternity Clothes: Yep, but I can still fit into some of my non-mat t-shirts<br />
<br />
Sleep: I finally broke down and bought some Tums. Of course, I haven't had a need of them since buying them, but that's good too.<br />
<br />
Cravings or Aversions: McDonald's chicken nugget meals. Yep, has to be the whole meal, with a coke and dipping sauce. So much for that great weight gain amount.<br />
<br />
Best Moment This Week: Feeling feet pushing around. <br />
<br />
Movement: Constant and crazy. Another non-sleeper I'm sure<br />
<br />
Gender: Girl.<br />
<br />
Labor Signs: nope, but I had some BH for the first time. <br />
<br />
Belly Button in or out: Still in, sort of<br />
<br />
What I miss: Not getting punched in the crotch repeatedly<br />
<br />
What I'm Looking Forward to: Breast feeding class next week. Should be interesting. Still not sure about it though<br />
<br />
Weekly Wisdom: Family means well (repeat until believed)<br />
<br />
Milestones: No more than 12 weeks left<br />
<br />
What the baby is up to:<br />
You’re probably already getting a little preview of baby’s personality, the more your feel him move. You might get some playful kicks and jabs, and start to feel little hiccups, too! At 29 weeks, he’s not just moving a lot, he’s also plumping up. And as he continues to put pressure on your digestive system, you’re going to feel the effects: hemorrhoids, heartburn, pelvic pain and frequent urination are all common at this stage in the game. Week 29 is a good time to start finalizing stuff, like stocking the nursery with baby care essentials and checking out a few potential day cares. You’ll also want to start packing a few things you know you’ll want with you at the hospital at baby’s birth. Leave it by the door, so you can add stuff you think of along the way -- and so you can grab it at a moment’s notice.<br />
<br />
<br />
I really need to get going on getting things ready for this little one. I just can't seem to get in any rush to do anything. I have no idea what to bring to the hospital, we don't have sleepers for winter, and we haven't even figured out the room for sleeping situations with AJ. I feel bad since I was so super excited at this stage with AJ, having my shower around now, registering, etc. This time, eh, whatever. Poor girl.J T http://www.blogger.com/profile/01198443870299430412noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3828346810951164634.post-12105714363447324572011-09-29T18:39:00.000-04:002011-09-29T18:39:31.114-04:00HDBD, sort ofHow Far Along: 28w<br />
<br />
Total Weight Gain: According to my first appointment, I'm up a total of 13 pounds. Yay!<br />
<br />
Maternity Clothes: Yep, but I can still fit into some of my non-mat t-shirts<br />
<br />
Sleep: heartburn or indigestion whatever it should be called has moved me to the couch a few times. Not a fan of sleeping sitting up.<br />
<br />
Cravings or Aversions: Nothing really<br />
<br />
Best Moment This Week: Passing the 1 hour GT test!!! Add to that, my iron levels were great, so no iron supplements this time either. <br />
<br />
Movement: Constant and crazy. I'm losing hope on this one being my good sleeper.<br />
<br />
Gender: Girl.<br />
<br />
Labor Signs: nope.<br />
<br />
Belly Button in or out: Still in, sort of<br />
<br />
What I miss: Holding AJ for as long as I want. I'm finally starting to tire out faster when holding her.<br />
<br />
What I'm Looking Forward to: Making cloth diapers<br />
<br />
Weekly Wisdom: Each pregnancy really is different<br />
<br />
Milestones: I just realized that in 90 days or less there will be a baby. Yikes!<br />
<br />
What the baby is up to:<br />
Welcome to the third trimester! Moms-to-be who are at 28 weeks and beyond are known for their lack of sleep. Remember if you find yourself up in the middle of the night, do something relaxing. This is not the time to vacuum the house from top to bottom -- even though you might feel the urge to do that at some point. Read a book, drink chamomile tea, listen to soothing music. Then try to get back to bed and get some rest! Being in the third trimester also means much of your and baby’s anatomy are ready to go -- she's prepping for breathing, and your breasts already have colostrum, which is what baby will eat the first few days until your milk comes in. You’ll also start feeling more Braxton Hicks contractions as your body gets ready for labor. Baby will keep getting bigger -- and smarter -- after week 28, and other than that, she just needs a few more finishing touches.J T http://www.blogger.com/profile/01198443870299430412noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3828346810951164634.post-24805599340842722542011-09-21T10:42:00.000-04:002011-09-21T10:42:28.462-04:00HDBDHow Far Along: 27w<br />
<br />
Total Weight Gain: Not sure yet. I know I'm up 10 from the start, so I'll find out soon<br />
<br />
Maternity Clothes: Yep, but I can still fit into some of my non-mat t-shirts<br />
<br />
Sleep: heartburn or indigestion whatever it should be called has moved me to the couch a few times. Not a fan of sleeping sitting up.<br />
<br />
Cravings or Aversions: Nothing really<br />
<br />
Best Moment This Week: Talking pregnancy with my sister-in-law who is 10w behind me with her first<br />
<br />
Movement: Constant and crazy. I'm losing hope on this one being my good sleeper.<br />
<br />
Gender: Girl.<br />
<br />
Labor Signs: nope.<br />
<br />
Belly Button in or out: Still in, sort of<br />
<br />
What I miss: Sleeping without the body pillow<br />
<br />
What I'm Looking Forward to: Possible job changes in the wind for either M or I<br />
<br />
Weekly Wisdom: I know my limits<br />
<br />
Milestones: 3rd tri, on some charts anyway<br />
<br />
What the baby is up to:<br />
At 27 weeks, baby is breathing (it’s amniotic fluid, not air, but it still counts) and even showing brain activity. You’ve got a lot on your brain, too, from wondering what labor and delivery is going to be like to trying to find the best pediatrician for baby. The annoying symptoms you’ve been having probably aren’t going away, but at least you’ve probably found some ways to deal with them -- and hey, maybe you’re used to them right now. As you say goodbye to the second trimester, you can look forward to some pretty embarrassing stuff (like having to pee all the time -- and maybe even when you don’t mean to at all) that’s all par for the late-pregnancy course. It’s time to head down the home stretch. Are you ready?J T http://www.blogger.com/profile/01198443870299430412noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3828346810951164634.post-48884956984004108772011-09-01T07:46:00.000-04:002011-09-01T07:46:43.691-04:00HDBDHow Far Along: 24w<br />
<br />
Total Weight Gain: 9 pounds in 4 weeks. I knew it was coming. My total gain now is 10 pounds. Not bad, as long as the next 4 weeks does not give me another 9 pound gain.<br />
<br />
Maternity Clothes: I hit up a big sale, and have clothes for fall. Now I just need the weather to change so I can wear them, and some compression socks so I can wear the fall boots I already own without them getting stuck on my swollen feet by the end of the day.<br />
<br />
Sleep: Still okay for the most part.<br />
<br />
Cravings or Aversions: Nothing really<br />
<br />
Best Moment This Week: M and my get away<br />
<br />
Movement: Constant and crazy. I'm losing hope on this one being my good sleeper.<br />
<br />
Gender: Girl.<br />
<br />
Labor Signs: Please no.<br />
<br />
Belly Button in or out: Still in<br />
<br />
What I miss: Nothing at the moment<br />
<br />
What I'm Looking Forward to: It's unofficially fall! Bring on everything fall related.<br />
<br />
Weekly Wisdom: Don't rub my belly if you don't want me to rub yours too<br />
<br />
Milestones: I have that horrid orange drink in the fridge. Just waiting, and taunting me with it's gross orange-y ness.<br />
<br />
What the baby is up to:<br />
<br />
<br />
Drink up! Around 24 weeks, your doctor will order a Glucose Tolerance Test -- one of the more memorable prenatal tests -- to see if you’re at risk for gestational diabetes. Basically, the test is designed to see how your body processes sugar, so you’ll be asked to drink a cup of a sweet drink called Glucola (which reminded us of Gatorade) and then hang out for an hour. Once the hour is up, you’ll have your blood drawn and then it will be tested to see how your body has processed the sugar. You know what’s also sweet? Those movements and kicks you’ve been feeling. They seem to get stronger every week. At week 24, baby’s progress isn’t just about internal stuff, it’s about her looks too. With pinker, more opaque skin, she’s looking more and more, well, like a baby. You, on the other hand, are probably experiencing some of the discomforts of the later months of pregnancy at week 24 -- leg cramps, backaches, swollen feet. Hang in there, mama-to-be!<br />
<br />
<div class="widget openhtml themebgcolor_medium themebordercolor_lrg htmlwidget"> <style>
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</style> <div style="width: 100%;"> <div style="float: left;"> <!-- fruit image goes here --> <img src="http://scmedia.theknot.com/~/media/118A6849CFBB4FF19C83FF1C1FCCE221.ashx" /> <!-- fruit image goes here --> </div><div id="wbwheddek" style="float: left;"> <div id="wbwhed"> your baby's the size of a papaya! </div><div id="wbwdek"> Your 10.5-to-11.8-inch fetus weighs about 12.7 to 20.8 ounces and every week she gets closer and closer to being ready to survive (and thrive!) in the outside world. </div><div style="padding-top: 15px;"> <!-- share fruit button goes here --> <!-- <img src="~/media/E35EA81BF4D647C081E015E28CE4924C.ashx" /> --> <!-- share fruit button goes here --> </div></div></div><div align="center"> <!-- dotted line image goes here --> <img src="http://scmedia.theknot.com/~/media/23878E23AE6645AA92D9EB2375C4A2A2.ashx" /> <!-- dotted line image goes here --> </div><br clear="all" /> <div style="width: 100%;"> <div style="float: left;"> <!-- baby image goes here --> <img src="http://scmedia.theknot.com/~/media/101C9DD8DD9E49B3952CB338BE226444.ashx" /> <!-- baby image goes here --> </div><div id="wbwheddek" style="float: left;"> <div id="wbwhed"> your baby at 24 weeks </div><div id="wbwdek"><ul><li id="wbwdisc">Her see-through skin is gradually becoming more opaque.</li>
<li id="wbwdisc">And it's got a new pink glow, thanks to the small capillaries that have recently formed.</li>
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</style> <div align="center"><!-- dotted line image goes here --></div></div>J T http://www.blogger.com/profile/01198443870299430412noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3828346810951164634.post-49519305170358941172011-08-30T09:04:00.000-04:002011-08-30T09:04:58.763-04:00JudgmentHow is it that a soul, tormented in this life, unable to find strength enough to make it even one more day, is then subjected to an eternity of more judgment and pain? <br />
<br />
The Catholic Church will not hold a service for a person who took his/her own life. They call it a sin to take the life God gave. That soul is not allowed to Heaven, and the family is doubly punished by not being able to grieve the loss, or celebrate the life, of the tourtured soul in their own house of worship. A person who believes their life is worthless is then validated in that assumption by the Church turning their back after the loss of strength. Thus making what the disturbed soul thought of their life come to fruition by the lack of respect, love and kindness so touted by the Church. How is this not a slap in the face to the family and soul of the departed?<br />
<br />
How am I to believe that Jesus, so sheathed in love and kindness, turns his back on one suffering to the ultimate extent. A person was unable to seek the strength of faith, the strength to overcome the obsticles put in front of him, the strength to go on, and now, after death, I'm supposed to believe (thanks to the Catholic belief) that he shows up in front of Jesus and Jesus turns away? Does this poor soul not need more love, more kindness, more patience than others?<br />
<br />
What about the family of the departed? The mother of the "condemned soul" is not allowed to go into her "faith family" and pay a final respect to her son? She is told her son is the ultimate sinner for taking his life. How does this show Jesus' love? Does she not have enough guilt for not helping her own flesh and blood before it became too late, now she has Jesus frowning at her as well? <br />
<br />
These are the questions I will be pondering as I celebrate the life, and mourn the loss of my cousin, while sitting in the chapel of a funeral home tomorrow. May he now find the strength and love he was unable to accept in this life. J T http://www.blogger.com/profile/01198443870299430412noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3828346810951164634.post-71036471117936379642011-08-26T08:53:00.000-04:002011-08-26T08:53:41.153-04:00The Sleep Wars, part 4We were on a roll. We had a routine that, although not ideal, was working and we were all sleeping.<br />
<br />
DAMN YOU, TWO YEAR MOLARS!!!<br />
<br />
AJ fell asleep at 9, woke up at 9:30 screaming. She was screaming for her blanket (which was on her), screaming for her doggie (which she was laying on), screaming for her milk (which she was holding). Just plain screaming, then she fell asleep again. Restless, whimpering sleep when she is sleeping, screaming when she's not. Oh what fun. <br />
<br />
Now for coffee. Lots and lots of coffee. I'm sorry baby Cori for any jolt you may get from my caffine consumption today, but it's the only way to make it through work. So tired, I was already half out of the house when M reminded me putting shoes on would be a good idea. Days like this make me happy I don't have a really important job.J T http://www.blogger.com/profile/01198443870299430412noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3828346810951164634.post-89775367202720514362011-08-24T21:16:00.000-04:002011-08-24T21:16:25.447-04:00HDBDHow Far Along: 23w<br />
<br />
Total Weight Gain: I don't weigh myself between appointments. It's way too scary.<br />
<br />
Maternity Clothes: I need to go shopping. Thankfully the change in weather is on it's way, and I realized I only have one pair of jeans and one long sleeve top. Not quite enough to get me through December.<br />
<br />
Sleep: M is jealous that my body pillow is getting more action than he is. <br />
<br />
Cravings or Aversions: Nothing really<br />
<br />
Best Moment This Week: M and my get away<br />
<br />
Movement: I think M is teaching her karate moves while I sleep, because that girl can kick my bladder like a ninja<br />
<br />
Gender: Girl.<br />
<br />
Labor Signs: Please no.<br />
<br />
Belly Button in or out: In, but at night, it's the wierd mix. I'm hoping to not have the turkey timer this time around either.<br />
<br />
What I miss: Nothing at the moment<br />
<br />
What I'm Looking Forward to: Another OB appointment Monday. I get to ask some questions I've thought of based on my want to go natural in the highest c-section rate hospital in the state<br />
<br />
Weekly Wisdom: I'm not feeling very wise this week<br />
<br />
Milestones: I snissed this morning for the first time ever. Gah!<br />
<br />
What the baby is up to:<br />
At 23 weeks, baby’s really getting ready for her big debut, listening in on what’s going on in the outside world. And you’re getting ready too. Just remember: While having the nursery painted and stocking it with diapers is important, there are some other pressing things you should have on your radar. Namely, financials. Around week 23 is a good time to call your and your partner’s insurance agent to check how you’re currently covered and decide what adjustments you’ll want to make for baby. You might also want to start thinking about writing a will, if you don’t have one, or updating your current one. How’s baby’s savings account going? If you’re like, “what savings account?” that’s okay. But decide whether or not you want to start one for her. One study found that kids who have their own savings account are more likely to go to college, and another one estimated the average cost of raising a baby until age 18 to be over $226,000. Whoa!<br />
<br />
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</style> <div style="width: 100%;"> <div style="float: left;"> <!-- fruit image goes here --> <!-- fruit image goes here --> </div><div id="wbwheddek" style="float: left;"> <div id="wbwhed"> your baby's the size of a papaya! </div><div id="wbwdek"> At about 10.5 to 11.8 inches and about 12.7 to 20.8 ounces, baby's not just getting bigger, she's getting even cuter. </div><div style="padding-top: 15px;"> <!-- share fruit button goes here --> <!-- <img src="~/media/E35EA81BF4D647C081E015E28CE4924C.ashx" /> --> <!-- share fruit button goes here --> </div></div></div><div align="center"> <!-- dotted line image goes here --> <img src="http://scmedia.theknot.com/~/media/23878E23AE6645AA92D9EB2375C4A2A2.ashx" /> <!-- dotted line image goes here --> </div><br clear="all" /> <div style="width: 100%;"> <div style="float: left;"> <!-- baby image goes here --> <!-- baby image goes here --> </div><div id="wbwheddek" style="float: left;"> <div id="wbwhed"> your baby at 23 weeks </div><div id="wbwdek"><ul><li id="wbwdisc">She's forming little nipples (yeah, really!)</li>
<li id="wbwdisc">Her face is fully formed now -- she just needs a little extra fat to fill it out.</li>
<li id="wbwdisc">She's listening to your voice and your heartbeat -- and even to loud sounds like cars honking and dogs barking.</li>
</ul></div></div></div></div>J T http://www.blogger.com/profile/01198443870299430412noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3828346810951164634.post-72366724454489832712011-08-23T21:15:00.001-04:002011-08-23T21:18:17.729-04:00August 17, 2011Driving home from work today I realized, I completely forgot about the due date of the baby we lost. If that pregnancy would have lasted, and the baby came on that date, I would have a one-week old today. It's odd to think about. That baby and loss are in my mind often, but honestly, I never think of when that baby "should have been born". I then feel guilt for not being over emotional on the day that baby would have been due, especially when I hear about others dealing with the grief of the EDD that wasn't.<br />
<br />
Right after the loss, I figured that date would be etched in my mind. I thought I would spend the next nine months re-living what would have been. Maybe it's because I got pregnant so quickly after, that the "what if" feeling didn't last that long? Maybe, but I'm not so sure.<br />
<br />
After the loss, since it was complete at home, I felt that the baby was "born" on that date, January 7, 2011. It helped me to heal to think that the baby we never got to know, and I wasn't able to help grow, was born on the date he should have been. I have also come to think that the baby was in fact a "he". That was our son, I'm almost sure of it, if intuition has anything to say about it. If it wasn't, oh well, it helps me to think of it that way. He was born on the 7th of the month, just like AJ, my nephew, and niece. <br />
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I guess I think of the EDD as arbitrary (for me, in no way to others), as AJ's EDD. I don't think that "had AJ been born on her EDD, she'd be five days older than she is". I celebrate the date she was actually born. So, if this is my thought process, August 17, 2011 was not as big of a deal as I thought it was going to be, but I'm pretty sure January 7, 2012 will be much more difficult for me. J T http://www.blogger.com/profile/01198443870299430412noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3828346810951164634.post-35815998764229215452011-08-22T09:09:00.000-04:002011-08-22T09:09:20.735-04:00Baby-moonGah! I hate that term. I guess that's what it was though. <br />
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Friday, M surprises me by telling me he made arrangements for my mother to watch AJ Saturday and Sunday, and he booked a hotel for us, so we're getting away. He wasn't going to tell me until Saturday, but thankfully my mother stepped in, and reminded him (again) how I hate surprises. It was a very thoughtful gesture though. <br />
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So, Saturday morning we packed up and headed up to the mountains. We did some shopping at the outlets, which are fantastic. I picked up some needed clothes for the new baby, a fleece one piece, 3 pairs of socks and a pair of pants for $15. Yay! M found a new pair of Adidas running sneakers, final price $15! Woot! Unfortunately I couldn't find anything either AJ or I really needed, so we were out of luck in the shopping department. <br />
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After the outlets, and dodging the downpours that spouted up from no where (it was still sunny, but pouring), we headed down the long road to the hotel to see if we could find anything interesting on the ride. Since we had only had breakfast and it was now 3PM, we decided an early dinner would be a good plan. We came across a wood grille restaurant and it was fantastic. We had fantastic dinners, M enjoyed a local brew and we both scorched our mouths on the dessert that was heated up in that wood grill. Ouch!<br />
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Check in at the hotel didn't go as amazingly. Apparently hotels.com never forwarded the info for our reservation, and the resort stopped taking reservations 4 days earlier. Thankfully the lady said we could upgrade to a penthouse free of charge. So, we head up the mountain to the room. And up the mountain it is. What an amazing view though<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/293576_2357093448699_1291117361_2845476_32182_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/293576_2357093448699_1291117361_2845476_32182_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
We noticed the room only had 10 channels, and decided to head back to town to find something do to for the night. What can two parents without kids do to spend an evening? Mini-golf of course. It was a blast. We threw out the score card before the first hole, and just had fun. After, we went back to the resort and checked things out, they were doing karaoke near the main clubhouse, and that was painfully bad. I still have Beiber stuck in my head, and being attempted by a scared 10 year old made it that much worse. The game room had pool, so we tried our luck with that. Turns out pool is not my game. Although I still believe I should get super genius points for actually trying to play correctly and not getting a single ball in any hole for 20 minutes. It should be like that jump a peg game and extra points given for leaving so many pegs without a move to be made. Eh, someday I'll find a game I'm not horrible at.<br />
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A dip in the pool, then back to the room for TV and bed. It was a long day.<br />
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Of course, I'm in a quiet room, AC cranked, no kid and I wake up at 5:30AM. Ugh! At least I had a good sunrise to watch<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/308491_2357092608678_1291117361_2845473_556603_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/308491_2357092608678_1291117361_2845473_556603_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
I wake M up at 6:30, because I'm bored, it's cold out on the deck in just shorts and a tank top, (didn't expect to need warmer clothing). Well, we get ready for the day, I go to the slider to lock up the deck and see this<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/300156_2357093648704_1291117361_2845477_6611386_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/300156_2357093648704_1291117361_2845477_6611386_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
We looked for the Mama, but she must have crossed before we were looking. It was really amazing to see this. We checked out of the hotel, and went to breakfast before our planned hike in the woods.<br />
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I've been up in the mountains a lot in my life, but not for hiking very often. Mainly it's just for shopping. I was determined to get my round self into the beautiful area we were in and enjoy it, without a wallet. <br />
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We found some easy trails and walked a good 4-5 miles, <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/306391_2357094648729_1291117361_2845481_1373311_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/306391_2357094648729_1291117361_2845481_1373311_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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watched some rock climbers<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/291741_2357095608753_1291117361_2845483_7463197_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/291741_2357095608753_1291117361_2845483_7463197_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
and just enjoyed the morning. <br />
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Such a great weekend away. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/301486_2357094208718_1291117361_2845480_967123_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/301486_2357094208718_1291117361_2845480_967123_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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J T http://www.blogger.com/profile/01198443870299430412noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3828346810951164634.post-4241971491528244162011-08-19T13:45:00.002-04:002011-08-19T13:47:59.989-04:00Banana muffins<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i184.photobucket.com/albums/x200/JMT678/DSC08941.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://i184.photobucket.com/albums/x200/JMT678/DSC08941.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Sunday we had an ice cream party for AJ's birthday. In our bar of toppings, we had bananas. I purchased a bunch of six. One sad little banana was used at the party. As M and I hate bananas plain, we tried to pawn the remaining off on AJ. She had one, and that was plenty for her unfortunately. So as the week wore on, I had to stare at those bananas getting more brown by the hour and knew that baking would be done on my day off. <br />
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In my plan of baking I realize a huge error on my part, I have almost a cup of sugar and absolutely no butter in the house. Hmmm, well, that makes things interesting.<br />
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When my obvious recipes fail me, I go to allrecipes.com. There's always someone else there who had to alter a recipe to work with their ingredients or taste preferances. Thankfully, I found something I could work with. <a href="http://allrecipes.com/recipe/sarahs-banana-bread-muffins/detail.aspx">Sarah's Banana Bread Muffins</a><br />
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For the changes, I put in all four bananas, because, really, what am I going to do with one overripe banana? Also, has anyone eating a banana baked good ever complained that it was too banana-y? I'm getting a little tired of typing banana, and I have Gwen Stefani sining in my head now.<br />
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Ok, so all the fruit is in, since there is extra, I switch one cup of AP flour for whole wheat. Now it's a healthy baked good, which makes it better when I eat more. I also added some cinnamon. I like baking with cinamon, it makes me happy, and feels like fall, even when the house is 85 degrees. <br />
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The ones hot out of the oven tasted great. All soft muffin-y. This morning I had one straight off the counter, without heating, and it was a bit dry for my liking. Maybe it was the whole wheat flour, or maybe it was just telling me next time to buy more butter for smearing. J T http://www.blogger.com/profile/01198443870299430412noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3828346810951164634.post-77086840436921967582011-08-17T08:32:00.000-04:002011-08-17T08:32:55.077-04:00Hump Day Bump DayHow Far Along: 22w<br />
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Total Weight Gain: I don't weigh myself between appointments. It's way too scary.<br />
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Maternity Clothes: Yep<br />
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Sleep: Okay, it's starting to get a bit uncomfortable though. <br />
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Cravings or Aversions: Nothing really<br />
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Best Moment This Week: The constant movement, and finaly feeling comfortable calling her by name occasionally.<br />
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Movement: Yep, she's a mover, and on my bladder. Fun times.<br />
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Gender: Girl.<br />
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Labor Signs: Please no.<br />
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Belly Button in or out: In, but at night, it's the wierd mix. I'm hoping to not have the turkey timer this time around either.<br />
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What I miss: Nothing at the moment<br />
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What I'm Looking Forward to: I'm in the happy time right now, not too uncomfortable yet, not sick anymore. It's all good.<br />
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Weekly Wisdom: "Only people whom you trust completely, who approve of your birth plan and who you don't mind seeing you nake should be present at the birth." - Your Best Birth <br />
I'm leaving this one for now. I'm still trying to figure this part out.<br />
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Milestones: Ummm<br />
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What the baby is up to:<br />
During week 22, baby is invading your space, which is why it might be tough to catch your breath and why your back might be killing you. Hey, as she grows, she may be expanding your belly so much (so fast) that you might have some stretch marks -- and you might even have a newfound “outtieâ€! What's not so cool is that the stretch marks may never fade, but we promise they'll fade in color after delivery. And your outtie will go back to an innie, we promise. As for sex, all these body changes, along with another fun one -- discharge! -- might be messing with your mojo, but some moms-to-be actually find they have an increase in libido around 22 weeks. That's because your hormones are pretty much raging at this point. This is also a good time to schedule a maternity portrait session. You'll want to aim for the third trimester -- but not so late that you risk going into labor before your appointment.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>your baby's the size of a papaya! <br />
During month five, the average fetus measures about 10.5 to 11.8 inches and weighs about 12.7 to 20.8 ounces. <br />
<div align="CENTER"></div><br />
your baby at 22 weeks <br />
<dir> <dir> Now that he's got more developed eyes and lips, he's looking even more like a newborn. <br />
He's sleeping in cycles -- about 12 to 14 hours per day (hint: they're probably those times you're not feeling any kicks!).</dir> </dir> <br />
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J T http://www.blogger.com/profile/01198443870299430412noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3828346810951164634.post-58979268693832891272011-08-15T08:41:00.001-04:002011-08-15T09:11:06.780-04:00Cake ChallengeSo, a few weeks ago I saw the <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/256688/rainbow-cake">Rainbow cake</a> on Pinterest. It looked so cool, I knew I wanted to try it for AJ's birthday. Never mind that she doesn't really like cake. I just wanted to challenge myself. So, I took this:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/sites/files/marthastewart.com/images/content/tv/martha_stewart_show/show_photos/5101_5200/5140_042010_rainbow_cake_l.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.marthastewart.com/sites/files/marthastewart.com/images/content/tv/martha_stewart_show/show_photos/5101_5200/5140_042010_rainbow_cake_l.jpg" /></a></div><br />
And by the time I was finished with it, it looked like this:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/293162_2338588906097_1291117361_2819612_3509413_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/293162_2338588906097_1291117361_2819612_3509413_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/262884_2338593546213_1291117361_2819629_4941772_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/262884_2338593546213_1291117361_2819629_4941772_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
The inside looked fantastic. It was a show stopper for all the guests, which was the whole point really. The kids loved all the colors and were fighting over which "flavor" was their favorite. Apparently blue tastes much better than orange. The adults were impressed and even commented about how I got the rainbow in order. Well of course, why bother if not to get the rainbow in order?<br />
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Now for the issues:<br />
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The cake batter was really easy to make. I divided the batter by spoonfuls rather than weight since I don't have a food scale. The coloring was fun, I finally broke out my cake decorating tackle box for the first time in a while. <br />
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The first issue came when trying to get the cake out of the pans. I didn't follow the directions in that I didn't have parchment paper to line the pan, just shortening and flour. The orange came out great, the green and yellow tore when trying to get them out. Second batch, I over prepped the pans, so the blue and purple came out easy, just needed to scrape the flour paste off the bottom. The red still stuck. Oh well, that's what frosting is for.<br />
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Now on to the frosting: I tried Martha's frosting listed in the recipe, a merenge buttercream. The first batch broke. The butter turned all grainy. I think the eggs were still too warm when the butter was added. I tried a second batch. This one looked fantastic, so this is where my mother (my assistant for the day), and I, took a break for lunch. <br />
<br />
Sidenote: We found the most amazing Greek restaurant in my town. I want to get M there, since he has actually eaten real Greek food, you know, like from Greece, so he can be a judge. <br />
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Anywho... we get back and the fantastic looking batch of frosting is now soup. ARGH! Ok. Two batches gone, 14 eggs gone. Martha is no longer my hero. Time to try something else. We go back to a regular buttercream, tried and true. It's much sweeter than I had hoped for, but it worked.<br />
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The cake looked great when we were done. We did a texture design and it looked like a fluffy snowball. Super cute. Well, Sunday, party day, was about as humid as it can get without actually raining. I check the amazing cake, and half the frosting is sliding off the side. Fantabulous! Move it to the basement, since the fridge is full of party stuff, and hope for the best. I am so thankful for the texture technique, as it's so easy to fix. <br />
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In the end, the cake was a success. Thankfully the awesomness of the cake overrode the sweetness of the frosting. <br />
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J T http://www.blogger.com/profile/01198443870299430412noreply@blogger.com1