Rocking B Ranch

It Begins

2011-04-19T21:29:00.001-07:00

So, our adventure has officially begun, I think.

Today, the professional movers have packed everything up and left our house full of dust bunnies and random bits of this and that which we don't know what to do with. It is amazing how such a tiny little house can hold so much STUFF! Really, I thought that we didn't have a lot of stuff, but once the packing began, I realized that we do, indeed, have a TON OF STUFF!

Today I roamed the little house that we have lived in for the past 7 years - looking at the yellow paint on my boy's wall. Looking at what a crappy job I did down at the bottom by the baseboards - knowing full well that when I was painting that area, I was SO DONE with painting! I think I was like 8 months pregnant when we finally decided to make the "nursery" for our pending child. I remember choosing the color - yellow - not a mellow buttery yellow like our kitchen is, but a more "green" yellow. I don't remember how it was picked, but I remember comparing that yellow to the yellow that lines our hallway and hating it. Although, I couldn't tell my husband because we just spent an entire weekend DAY painting the "guest room" a nasty colored-yellow.

It turned out great, though.

We welcomed home a baby boy and didn't even think twice about the color in his room.

Today, though, the bunk beds were disassembled by the movers.
The pictures were taken down and packed away.
The books were packed for France.
The toys, too, were packed for France.

This is going to be an amazing journey. It will most likely be filled with stops and starts, but I am optimistic.

I think it will be such a wonderful time to reminisce about.

But, back to today.

Today, we are all in our respective beds. One for each of us. Only a mile away from the home we have lived in for the past 7 years. The home we brought Brannan into. The home we brought Kinnerly into. The home we lost Leia in. So many memories. Such great times.

It seems weird to be staying in a hotel that is only a mile from your home. Like, I should just drive back there and sleep in my bed with my pillows and the crappy pink rug that has been there forever. With my nightlights and my midnight snack dark M&M's.

It will take time to get used to this new place.

But, I am ready.

I am SO ready!

Worst Mom In The World

2011-04-13T08:22:00.000-07:00

I think I won the "worst mom in the world" medal. So, to start off, I began with a meeting of two guys who were going to look at buying the Saturn. It was all going so well and they agreed to buy the thing. The next step was to go to the bank and get the title notarized. So, I'm trying to round up the kids and everything I need to go to the corner to the bank. I grab the car seat, set it on top of the kitchen counter and set Kinnerly in it. Then, everything happened in a split second. Brannan threw my sunglasses on the floor and for some reason, just instinctual I guess, I bend over to pick them up. Not even comprehending that I hadn't buckled the baby in yet, because really, it only takes a SECOND to pick up something off the floor! Well, she decides to see what I'm doing out of her view and she sits STRAIGHT UP! And then her carseat rocks. And it propelled her, almost shot her, out of her carseat and face first on to the saltillo tile! The carseat came quickly after and landed on top of her. OH MY GOD! I freaked out! She started crying, obviously, but that was better than her being unconscious! Her little nose bled for a tiny bit and she couldn't stop screaming. I didn't know what to do, to take her to the ER? The pediatrician? I tried calling them but they are always busy and I got sent to a recording. I tried my Mom, but she wasn't at her desk. I was wandering all around and around the house holding her close trying to get her to stop crying, giving her a passifier and whatnot. I checked to make sure her eyes were still dilating (which they were). I think I did that like 3 times in our dark bedroom. Well, I loaded them all up finally after about 10 minutes freaking out, trying to find Brannan's shoes and then we had to wait forever to get the stupid title notarized. Anyway, after all of the car crap, I called Byron and told him that I needed the car to take the baby to the doctor. Well, it ended up that her poor top lip and nose took the brunt of the fall. Her lip is so fat that she doesn't even look like the regular pretty baby we know. It is so strange. But, you look in her mouth and her whole top lip is dark, dark purple! I feel so bad. I felt so bad that I had a dream that Byron told me that she died! Oh my! Anyway, that is the story of the worst mom in the world. But, the Saturn is sold and then after I got back from the pediatrician, we had an appointment for someone to come and look at our house to rent. And, the guy loves it and is going to sign the lease! Now our house is rented too! Today an evaluator comes over to get the details for our move. Guess how much it is going to cost to fly Zeffie over! Uh, yeah - $2200!!!! Too funny. It will make for a good part of my book though!

Zee Play Ground...

2011-03-13T13:39:00.000-07:00

There is this little place right outside of our hotel called ZepleGarounde and literally, it took us almost FOUR days to realize the name of this place! I swear, I was looking up all these words in my French dictionary and couldn't find any of them. So, finally, today, I figured that it was a play on words and just sounded it out (in English), and voila!

The Play Ground!

It is a cute little space inside a building with some areas for kids to run around in. A ball pit, some little padded mazes and stuff like that. Oh, they also have a video game station that Brannan really loved - he played this game that had a 4-wheeler going off road and he wouldn't stop playing it!

The people that own it are making a killing! It is a great place in this city of shops and restaurants. This town has a LOT of shops and restaurants. It really isn't a place for a family with little children, we have figured out.

I think we realized that we really aren't "city" people. Gosh, I know that our place back in Arizona is really small, but, compared to these little apartments, it is a world of difference.

And, really, lately, I have been wandering around our house, thinking how small it was and how much we didn't really need all the stuff we had. But now, when I am here, I see that everything is made from IKEA and everything is in tiny proportions, it makes me really appreciate the space that we do have. Thinking about my sister-in-law's place makes me want to wear a hoop skirt and twirl around singing "The hills are alive....."

Otherwise, we took a little drive today and saw a little bit more of this area.

They love the "grand rond" - which is just a traffic circle. Personally, they freak me out because the GPS lady says "take the 5th exit on rue de blah blah" and I have to count however many streets you can go on, but if you aren't allowed to go on one street (aka - one way!) then, that doesn't count as one of the "exits". Seriously, it makes my knuckles white and my adrenaline pumped to the highest level.

And then there is driving with my husband.
Oh. my. gawd.

So, he is listening to the GPS lady and she says "veer right on rew deh l'orsaghe" or something like that because she can't even speak french. And then Byron says "so, do I go right here?" and I say, "I DONT KNOW! LISTEN TO HER!!!!" and then he veers right too soon and then the GPS lady says "RECALCULATING!!!!" and then you know you are in for it because he turned too soon....

Makes me want to stab myself in the shins and wish I was back in Phoenix where every street is a square.

So, needless to say, driving here has been an adventure.

We did get to go to a museum today and saw some really old artifacts. It was awesome. I only wish I remember my days back in college when I was studying art history. Remembering the difference between Gothic and Romance and all those eras. It is just nice being able to see some really old art.

Toulouse!

2011-03-13T13:36:00.000-07:00

Well, we finally made it and whew, was it an adventure.

The flights were great, although quite long. British Airways is really nice (at least the area we were in). We had private TV's and you could choose your own movies. I watched Black Swan (which I've been really wanting to see) and a couple of others. Brannan watched Lilo and Stitch and a little bit of Cars before we landed. He watched the whole movie when we got on the plane and then I made him go to sleep after that. He slept for at least 5 or so hours, so that was good. Kinnerly did good too. She was up only about an hour during the whole flight. A little fidgety when she was up, but she did really good. The layover in Heathrow was kinda long and Byron was really struggling with no sleep. It didn't really bother me at all, the lack of sleep and the time change. I think it will when we go back but we all slept in today until like 12:30 (we went out to get something to eat at midnight last night because we were all hungry!).

So, driving in Toulouse is very crazy and scary, especially at night! The streets are all crazy one-laners and there aren't any visible street signs. And, our GPS was a little sketchy and lost the satellite like 3 times! Somehow, it got us near the hotel and Byron just kept driving down all these little side streets and we finally found it! Try directing a suuuuper tired, frustrated Byron through Toulouse, it is fun (not).

We also had so much stuff that it barely fit into our little car! Oh man, that was a little scary too.

Anyway, after we got to the hotel super late last night and got some dinner we got to bed around 1 I think.

We walked around a little while this afternoon and there are sooooooo many restaurants and little boulangeries everywhere! We are in the center of town and there are soooooo many people too! People everywhere! It's like trying to walk in Disney World with a stroller, Sandi! Super crazy.

Anyway, people are really friendly so far. I've tried a little french out but feel like I'm being an idiot. Especially when they start speaking in english to me. Oh well. I'm trying at least. We were watching a kiddie cartoon (Word World) this morning while getting ready and it was in french and english and I totally understood it! It was awesome. But, out there in the real world, everyone speaks so fast it is hard to understand.

I went into about 6 stores looking for a universal plug adapter (I tried yours Mom, but the plug is all rounded out and weird so the big boxy one didn't work) and I was understanding quite a bit. It's fun but I still sound really dorky when I try to speak to someone.

The boys went out to get some Euros. Thanks so much Dad for those emergency ones you gave me, saved us a couple of times! All of our credit cards didn't work at the supermarche (grocery store) so I had to use cash.

Byron doesn't have to work until Monday I think so we have time to walk around and try to find something fun to do.

Anyway, just wanted to let you all know that we got here without much of an ordeal - besides the driving - and now we can really relax and have some fun!

Now that we have a plug, we will keep you posted.

Getting ready

2011-01-21T08:32:00.000-08:00

We are getting ready for something. We are waiting and waiting and waiting for our chance at a little change on this ranch. It will be very very exciting if everything comes into place. I really hope so.

We could potentially be living in France!

And not just any old part of France either - we would be in Cannes, France!

I can't even imagine what it is going to be like. Well, ok, I have been imagining what it will be like - a LOT actually - because there are so many things to consider and think of when taking on a move like this.

It won't be permanent. But it won't be quick either. We could potentially be there for 3 years. That's quite a long time. Big Boy will be 6 and will be in regular school and the baby will be 3. I can't even imagine what that is going to be like. I don't want him to be 6! Oooh, it makes my heart ache just thinking about it! But, I digress...

I have been wandering around the house lately looking at all the "stuff" we have and have collected over the years and just get overwhelmed thinking about trying to get rid of it all, or using it all up. I'm trying not to buy a lot of things because I don't want to have to part with them or sell them for next to nothing at a garage sale. That would just be a real bummer. But, then again, everything has been put off and put off it just keeps on going. I mean, really, my Costco membership is due next month! Should I renew it or not? I don't know! Should I get my baby a passport? I just don't know what to do!

So we keep waiting.
This waiting stuff is making me crazy.

Otherwise, this weekend is B's birthday. We are going out for Happy Hour tonight and tomorrow night we are going to the movies. It should be a pretty fun birthday weekend for him, at least I hope so! It's hard getting babysitters too. I feel bad dumping the kids off on my parents mainly because it is really hard for me to watch them take care of the kids. They are great with the boy, but the baby is different. She is pretty needy and likes to be held a lot. But, I guess I should just "cut the umbilical cord" as someone once told me a while ago and let them take care of her. It isn't that big of a deal, right? Right? Yeah, they'll be fine. Especially for a couple of hours.

Isn't she a cutie pie?

She has the most beautiful blue eyes too!

Won't she be a knockout when she can speak French and English?!?

January 2011

2011-01-03T07:19:00.000-08:00

Wow, it is January already!

The holidays came and went without a hitch. We all had fun and it was especially fun for the big boy because Santa came! OMG! Santa left presents on his bed, Santa left presents under the tree, Santa left presents at Grandma and Pappy's house! Wow, it was really a Christmas to remember. Santa brought big boy an electric Lightning McQueen racecar!!!

He was stoked! I think it might've been more fun for my Dad and his Dad to watch him though. They had a great time laughing and yelling directions to him. Now, 5 or 10 days later, he is a pro at it. Daddy even made him a little racecar track in the front to drive around and to practice his backing up skills and his forward skills. He is so cute and talks about everything (except when you want him to talk, he won't - pretty much around strangers though). But, Santa brought him Toy Story 3 movie, a Lighting McQueen scooter and helmet and some other fun goodies. Oh, some Monster Trucks. He really likes those. Oh, and he also got Legos! I'm excited for the Legos. I used to love to play with them when I was little and I wish I kept them. I'm lucky I got some of the books that I had when I was a kid. My Dad likes to throw stuff away, which isn't bad, but I pretty much don't have anything left from my childhood. That's ok though, I don't like to keep stuff around either.

Otherwise, little tiny child had a good Christmas too. She got a Magic Wand from Santa and she loves it. She is too tiny to get toys yet, although her Auntie got her some cute toys - a chewy bunny toy and a little boombox that has lights and music.

MY Christmas was good too! I got a beautiful pair of earrings. I felt bad though because I didn't get my husband something big. I told him not to get anything and that Christmas was really for the kids, but he didn't listen. But, I love them and haven't had any new jewelry in quite some time.

Christmas Eve was fun. We had Whipahol! That was the funnest! Everyone got a little silly at the end and we had a special friend with us too since her family was back East. We were so glad to have her because she is a great guest.

New Years Eve was fun too! We went over to Val's for a while. Ate some delicious food and kept the kids up until 10pm! Then we came home, did a couple of fireworks out back and sent the kids to bed. By that time it was already 11 and we stayed up to watch the ball drop. My favorite holiday! Come and gone. Just like that.

Now, we are into a new year.

Who knows what it will hold for us. There are things on the horizon that could flip our family upside down. Good things. But, still, it would be fun and different and totally exciting. But, things are very far from being finalized or even proposed, really. We should find out soon!

That's all for Christmas.

My New Year's resolution is of course, to lose weight (down 10lbs so far!) and to write more! :)

December

2010-12-09T11:49:00.000-08:00

Well, I got our beautiful holiday cards from Shutterfly and they are awesome! I even got them mailed out this week. I haven't heard from anyone yet if they like them or not, but I sure as heck do and I guess that is all that really matters. Oh, my husband likes them as well. So, they are out there in the world and I hope that they are liked.

I haven't had much time to update at all lately. It seems like the weeks are flying by.

Kinnerly has started eating real food. So far she has had sweet potatoes and some butternut squash. She may be teething, but not really sure. I hope not. I want her to stay a little baby forever!

She sleeps through the night. Usually from 7:30 until 6:30 which is wonderful. I always tell people I meet on the street that she came out sleeping through the night, which is pretty much true. It is awesome. Makes me want to have more children!

Brannan has been somewhat of a little mischief lately. But, then again, he is 3 years old. He is super funny though and likes to be a stunt man and is always bonking his head or running into walls on purpose. The other day he was spinning around on the floor like he was a dog and he said "look mom, I'm chasing my tail like Zeffie does." Hilarious. And, Kinnerly was laughing at him. That was probably the best part.

Life right now is in limbo. We are waiting on huge news. We may be moving to France! I can't believe it. I am scared and excited and nervous about it all. I have so many questions but we can't do anything right now except wait and see. We will have to get the baby a passport though, that's for sure. I am nervous that the husband won't like it. I don't want him to do this for me. He needs to want to do it too. We will have to have a huge life discussion about this when the final details come into play.

But, this weekend we are going to be in the Tempe boat parade! I am so stinking excited I can hardly contain myself. I am nervous, though, about how we are going to power our lights. I really need to get it all set up tomorrow night (my birthday!) and have it ready to go. I don't like doing things last minute.

And, another birthday is here. Bleah.

I'm getting so old! :(

I think I should've started on this kid journey a long time ago.

But, that's a post for another time!

Pills

2010-11-11T08:41:00.001-08:00

I started taking prenatal pills again.

No - I'm not pregnant. And really, they are just leftover from when I was pregnant.

But, I can't help but feel so totally nostalgic when I break them free from their little plastic container and pop them in my mouth. I think about all the kicking and the sore hips at night from sleeping on them and all the crazy dreams while I was pregnant.

Granted, my baby is only 5 months old, but I am alredy missing being pregnant so much. I just love it. Well, I don't love the "no alcohol" part, but I love the attention that I can draw just by holding my stomach, or wearing those awesome maternity clothes that really show off your belly. Or, while ordering dessert at a restaurant, justify yourself by saying "the baby really wanted that cheesecake!"

So, at night, while I am scrubbing my face and brushing my teeth, I look at the pack of prenatal pills sitting in the basket next to my sink and figure, what the heck, I'll just go ahead and take them, it can't hurt anything. Even if I'm not growing a little baby in there, I can still take the vitamins, they are good for me.

And, for a split second, I pretend I'm pregnant again.

2010-11-09T14:51:00.000-08:00

I love your pretty blue eyes! I hope you keep them. And, Daddy does too!

That is one of the things that he says most about you. He really hopes that you keep your pretty blue eyes. I still think you are pretty though, blue or brown eyes!

Today you slept a lot and we were babysitting, so that was great.

You woke up a lot last night, but just needed to be wrapped up again and you fell back asleep. You really do need to learn how to sleep without a swaddle though, girl. The swaddle doesn't keep you contained anymore. You are so strong!

I remember swaddling your brother up. One wrap and he was gone. He would sleep for 10 hours straight in a swaddle. You - you sleep for a couple hours max. But, that's ok. Just a different kiddo!

Brother is screaming, gotta go.

2010-11-08T14:06:00.000-08:00

Aw, pretty girl, don't look so scared! It is just a huge gigantic flower on your head!

You are growing fast and furious. The other morning, I was holding you and I was drinking my first glass of cold water for the day and you just reached right out and swatted that glass right from my mouth! I couldn't believe it! You just didn't want me to have a drink at that moment, I guess.

You smile all the time whenever I say hi to you and the most awesome part of my day is when I go and get you in the morning and your face just breaks into the biggest smile, it seems as if your cheeks might crack from the sheer pressure.

I love it.

And, I love you.

We are coming into the holidays already and this will be your first Thanksgiving and your first Christmas. I know Brannan will command much of the attention, but you will be the prettiest girl in the house, no doubt!

Christmas Cards

2010-11-02T10:43:00.001-07:00

I do love Christmas cards.

There is something about them that makes me happy. Getting one (or a few) in the mail really makes me happy. It makes me realize that even though I may not talk to friends for a really long time, or only see them on Facebook, or just plain got out of touch with them, still shows that they care about me and my family.

Yeah, sure, sometimes it is bragging. I don't like those all-inclusive 8.5 x 11 printouts that tell you all about how so-and-so graduated college and that all of the kids are getting straight-A's in high school, or how old that makes me feel even though I have a newborn and a three year old. Eh, I guess I started late, so what. But, I like the pretty pictures just to see how the kids are growing up or what sort of fun is being had along the way.

I like seeing people on the beach on their Christmas cards. I like seeing snow too, since I don't get to see it very often. Really, I just love pictures. A little glimpse into someone else's world for a brief second.

Anyway, I am going to use Shutterfly.com for my Christmas cards this year. They have an awesome selection:
http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/christmas-cards

This one jumped right out at me (and not because it was the first one). I really like the black and white photos. I'm gonna try to take some good pics of us so I can use this template:
http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/cards-stationery/family-wall-red-christmas-card-5x7-flat?sortType=1&storeNode=93476

Oh, I like this one too, but it is a fold out card and that means I'm gonna have to write something on each card! Ugh.
http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/cards-stationery/gorgeous-gift-tag-christmas-5x7-folded-card?sortType=1&storeNode=93476

Although, a wall calendar would be fun to make, but I don't have enough photos to make one of these I don't think.
http://www.shutterfly.com/calendars/wall-calendars

Finally, you can get matching labels for the envelopes! How cool is that?
http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/address-labels

Gosh, I better get on this holiday stuff.

There is just so much to do. I just got back inside from cleaning up the Halloween decorations. It doesn't even feel like Thanksgiving is just around the corner, but it really is. I can't believe how fast this year has gone.

Terrible

2010-09-15T17:09:00.000-07:00

We had the worst Labor Day camping trip ever!

It started out that we lost the keys to the truck on Thursday night. Unbeknownst to us, the keys mysteriously fell into a pile of baby stuff that was carted off to our friends' house that night.

We searched high and low for 3 hours straight on Friday morning to no avail. And really, our house is not that big. The first twenty minutes could've pretty much covered everything.

Luckily, my girlfriend was allowed to use their extra truck from work to take us all up. So, we continued to pack to go camping but there was a mysterious undertone to everything. Everyone was slightly off edge and cranky. We got to our spot (that we didn't even want to go to) late so we had to set up everything in the dark, which is a total pain in the ass.

Friday night was ok. I didn't feel like cooking at all because I hate to cook in the dark, and hate to eat in the dark even worse becaue I don't know what the hell could be crawling around in my food. I really need to SEE what I am eating, at all times. So, I made some sandwiches for everyone (without condiments because we seemed to have forgotten those too) and some pasta salad. That was ok. A few cocktails later and everything was even better, but we had to get to bed because little children wake up really really early when you are camping.

Oh, rewind to the drive up to the spot - my friend gets a photo radar ticket in her work vehicle! OMG! So lame!

Saturday was ok, but the spot that we camped in is really really dirty. I know that sounds really dumb since you are camping, but honestly, it has this terrible dirt that is black and is so super fine, it is like powdered sugar fine. Super annoying and when you are wearing sandals, your feet are instantly black. The boys took off to go to the lake and got lost for like two hours trying to find the lake. They come back to the campsite and decide to go shooting and my husband forgets all of his ammo in the car. Duh! Whatever! What else could go wrong?

They come back from shooting so late, I don't know when to start dinner (there aren't exactly any cell phones up there), and then again, we are cooking in the dark and I was so pissed off about it, I didn't even cook. I threw a little bit of a fit about that too. Oh, and to top it all off, my girlfriend caught a cold.

Yay camping.

Not.

I had too many cocktails on Saturday night but had fun doing it but regretted it the next morning on the drive home. My girlfriend gets up Sunday morning and just basically threw a fit about being dirty and said she wanted to go home so we packed up and were home by 12:30 to continue the search for our missing keys.

We went swimming on Sunday afternoon, cleaned up a little, looked for the keys and ate some pasta for dinner.

Monday we had to return the car to my girlfriend and look for more keys. I called the towtruck, they took the car to the dealership. Luckily, they were closed though, so that allowed for more time to look for the keys.

Tuesday rolls around and still no keys. The dealership called and said it was going to be $600! Holy shit! Are these keys going to sing me romantic songs and take me out to dinner too?? Or, maybe to Hawaii? I could've flown to Hawaii for that price!

But, we still have no keys so I tell them to go ahead and do it.

Tuesday the husband gets home from work and we are getting ready to go pick up the MOST EXPENSIVE SET OF KEYS I've ever encountered when my girlfriend calls. I figure she just wanted to tell me something or other, but she says "I found your KEYS!"

Oh no you didn't!

Please tell me you didn't!

She did.

They were in a pile of baby stuff that left the house on Thursday night.

Mother #$%%%^^.

That was the worst and perhaps the most expensive Labor Day I've ever had.

But, hey, things could be worse, so I guess it is ok.

Two months

2010-08-30T13:57:00.000-07:00

Two months old! It has been a little over two months since we brought our new little girl home. Things have gone pretty seamlessly too. It has been good adding another one to our family. She is filling out more and she is starting to look like a little girl now. She still has a little bit of the "froggy legs" left. It is super cute when you pick her up, she bends up her little legs like a frog. I absolutely adore it!

We have done so many things with her - things that we didn't do with Brannan when he was that little.

We already took her up to Montana for a two week vacation. She did great. She slept a lot and didn't really cause too much trouble. We were able to do most things that we normally do with her. The only thing we did have a problem with was all of us going out rafting together. My sister in law watched her one afternoon when we went rafting which was awesome. It was so nice to get out and go rafting. We went up to our cabing for a couple of days and took out the little boats out on Bowen Lake in Glacier National Park. It was fabulous. We started out on the most pristine water I have ever been boating on. The water was literally like glass when we started out. But, after a while, the wind kicked up and started making some pretty good waves. We got a little wet, but that was ok. Kinnerly likes boating, she didn't hardly complain at all. She liked that the boat rocked back and forth, I think. She slept most of the time. Well, she probably slept most of the time too because she was only 6 weeks old and that is pretty much what they do anyway.

While we were in Montana we saw lots of friends, went to a waterpark where Brannan rode down the waterslides all on his own! He was wearing a life jacket, but he loved it! I had a lot of fun too! I have always wanted to go to that little waterpark that we always pass when we go to GNP, and finally got to do it.

We ate lots of yummy food - all the local produce wasn't in yet because they had a really late frost so everything is kindof lagging up there, but we ate lots of lettuce and some snap peas out of the garden.

Since we have been back, Brannan has started going to preschool for two mornings a week. It is a nice break for me. I think maybe we should "up it" and go full days. Currently he only goes from 7-12, but at least he gets to play with different kids and get a feel of what "school" is going to be like. The time I have with just me and the baby goes by so dang fast, I mean, just two mornings a week to myself! Oh well, it is a start and I know when these kiddos start going to school full time I am going to miss these days. Today was only day 2 of going to school and I think he really likes it, but I have heard that he tells the teacher that he really misses his mom and his dad and his sister a lot. Awww, that is so dang cute! But, I know in the end he will really like this.

Our September is so packed full of stuff, it is kindof exciting. With Brannan going to school two days a week, then this Labor Day weekend we are going camping. Next weekend is Brannan's 3rd birthday party (oh my gosh, I really need to figure out a menu!) and the weekend after that we are going to go up to my parents cabin. Then, I really really want to go boating on my new boat. So, that will be the fourth weekend of September. That's crazy! And sprinkle in some babysitting and some dentist appointments and some doctor's appointments, it looks like September will fly by!

Kinny is doing so well. She had her big round of shots last week and she had a little reaction to them. She got some bumps on her legs but now they have gone away and I think that I may have overreacted a little bit. She is a snacker like me and drinks 2 oz every couple of hours and still sleeps a ton! Last night she slept from 8-5:30! Sweet! Sweet baby sweet baby! I love her to pieces!

I can't wait to go back to the gym though. I feel so disgustingly fat. I can't even believe what the scale is telling me too! I only lost like 10lbs having Kiki. WTH? And this week, I went up like 4lbs! Unbelievable! Kiki can't go to the little gym daycare until she is 3 months old though. I really need to get my ass in shape. Ugh. And, staying home all day doesn't help, what with the alcohol and the snacks tempting me all the time.

So, that's about it for now. Off to cut up salad for dinner.

Five weeks

2010-07-21T16:15:00.000-07:00

Well, little girl - you are five weeks old today. You have developed a schedule. You like to wake me up at 5:30 and get me out of bed. Well, that is ok since you don't really cry, you just kindof grunt and make all these moaning noises. Somehow it wakes me up out of a dead sleep and I know you need me. And we have a little bit of time together until your brother wakes up. He has been getting up early too. I think it is because it is summertime and you both know that we don't have much to do around town. It is torture leaving you all in the house all the time, but on the other hand it is just too hot to go out and do anything. But, we will be leaving for Montana on Saturday. I can't wait. Your brother will be very happy to hang out with his cousins and play all day long. It will be interesting to see how it all comes down now that he is older. I just read a beautiful post about how a new Mom was saying how she didn't know if she could love a boy as much as she did the girls. I cried. I mean, literally bawled after reading it. I honestly felt the same way about having a girl. I am so scared to deal with her boyfriends, her period, her body issues, her insecurities - all these things that I have to deal with. It just seems so much easier to be a boy. I mean, I'm not one mind you. But boys - they just don't care about a lot of stuff. There are things that I agonize over that the average boy really doesn't care about. How I look in a shirt, how last year's jeans don't fit, how I hate my boobs. Gah! I just feel bad bringing a girl into the world that has to deal with all this stuff. But, it will be good. I'm keeping an open heart for it. I know she will be confident and self-secure and beautiful and worldly and wonderful.

Three weeks

2010-07-09T10:12:00.001-07:00

So, now the weeks just fly by.

When I was pregnant with you, the days seemed to drag on and on.

I feel really bad for a friend who is overdue today. She was due on the 30th and it is already the 8th! They will induce her in two more days if nothing happens. I'm sure she will be induced.

Anyway, things have been going great with you, little smooshie. I've been toying around with nicknames and haven't really come up with anything great yet. Smooshie sounds good, no?
You have been sleeping a lot lately. Like, through the night and through the day. But, there are times when you are awake, which is great, and those times are usually during the day which is even better. You never cry unless we are out and about and I can't reach you in your carseat.

But, we took you and your brother up north to Payson for the 4th of July. It was super fun. I think you had a great time. Your brother and I and your Daddy certainly did!

Here we are in the park. We got there a little after noon and got the most awesomest parking spot and cumped all of our stuff out right in the park and had the greatest view of the fireworks. It was a pretty long day for everyone because we had to drive back home afterward, but it was so worth it. Your Daddy had to get out of town - he was getting a little cranky, so I suggested we head up there.

He liked napping with you in the park too.

And, now you are already three weeks old and counting. It is going by so fast!

We are looking forward to going up to Montana soon to see family. I can't wait to get out of this heat and out of this house!

Two weeks

2010-07-01T14:43:00.000-07:00

You are two weeks old today!

You lost your little umbilical cord button two days ago. I saved it for Daddy to see, but it fell out of your carseat when we went out to dinner. Oh well. It was pretty gross anyway.

You have been opening your eyes a lot more lately and are inclined to stay awake for more than five minutes at a time now.

However, you are still a wonderfull sleeper at night and I thank you very much for that.

You are awake right now and want some food though, so I better go get you.

You are here!

2010-06-28T15:24:00.001-07:00

And, you are a girl!

7 pounds, 8 ounces
19" long

Healthy and happy!

And, you don't cry at all! You are such a good little girl and I am very proud to be your Mom. Everyone told me that you were going to be a girl, and they were right. I guess I sort of figured it too since you were so different than Brannan's pregnancy. You just hit me with sickness straight off the bat and didn't let up - almost all the way to the end - just spurts here and there, but at the end there were some days of sickness.

Anyway, we should start at the beginning!

You were born on June 16th at 2:25pm.

You were due to be born on the 12th, but went a little later. I asked the OB if you could be induced because you were a couple of days past your due date and she said it would be ok. So, we scheduled you for a Wednesday.

I was really quite nervous, but very excited to see you. I packed my bag the night before and got up really early in the morning, at about 4:15 - took a shower, packed all my last minute items and drove myself (and you) to the hospital. I decided that Daddy should stay at home with Brannan and let him sleep a little while since I was going to get all hooked up and checked and changed in the morning. That wasn't something that your big brother needed to be there for.

Anyway, I got all changed and hooked up to pitocin and started emailing and talking on the computer. It was really just to pass time. And, it did pass some time. Finally, Daddy and your big brother showed up around 9ish - right after I got my blessed epidural. I was starting to feel cramps so I opted for the epidural. It was super easy and didn't hurt nearly as bad as the IV they put into my arm. Then, I couldn't feel my legs and I didn't have to get up to go pee all the time! It was awesome!

So, your brother watched quite a few movies while the minutes ticked by. Your Daddy was working from his computer and I was chit chatting to others on my computer. I got checked periodically and around 2:00 Daddy decided to take your brother out for a little walk.

The nurse decided to come in to check me after you guys left and she said, "Oh, ok, you are at 10cm now." all nonchalantly like that, and I was thinking "WHAT???@!!!??" And right then your Daddy texted me and he said "how are you doing?" and I dropped my phone because I was so nervous as they were putting me up in stirrups and then I managed to bend over and grab my phone and texted him back and said "IT's GO TIME!"

So, he and your brother hussled back into my room, everyone got set up, the doctor was called (she happened to go home for lunch) and we just waited on her. I was up in stirrups for quite some time waiting for her to arrive at the hospital.

Anyway, she finally got there (wearing white capri's nonetheless), got dressed and about 2:20 the nurse said, ok, don't push, just kindof cough and you can probably have this baby, so I rounded my back, gave a little push, and your head literally popped right out. Dr. Hunt was so stunned she had the funniest look on her face and she said "ok, ok, don't push, don't push" and I said "I'm not doint anything at all, I can't help it" because really, I couldn't help it because of the epidural and whatnot. And, then the rest of you popped right out. It was pretty amazing. Then they laid you on my stomach and I had to ask what sex you were because no one said anything, and finally someone lifted your little leg up and told me that you were a girl.

And that was that.

Now you are here and you are a wonderful baby and I can't wait to get to know you even better.

2

2010-06-10T10:51:00.001-07:00

Well - two.

Only two days until you are due to arrive. Although, you will probably not arrive on Saturday, as has been predicted.

I don't feel any different - at least today I don't.

We went and saw the doctor on Tuesday, but she said I wasn't "squishy" enough to induce. So, I thought we were going to have you here this weekend, but it seems like you want to spend some more time in there. I was really bummed at first, but then I told myself that you need some more time in there, so I don't mind too much. And, I have been sleeping a little better the past couple of nights, so it hasn't been terribly bad. Oh, and we have been preoccupying ourselves with finding a boat that we can hang out on, so that makes things a lot more fun. And, I have been thinking a lot about vacations, too, so that takes up some time.

It has been so hot here lately that we have been spending a lot of the time in the pool. Your big brother has the cutest tan. He has the whitest little butt and is tan everywhere else. He is also getting really good at swimming. I think in a month or so he will be able to swim all on his own without us having to worry about him so much. I mean, we will still worry, but it won't be so bad. He hasn't put on his life jacket in a week or so, and we just let him swim around and around. He can actually keep his little nose and mouth above the water now (his ears and head are still sunk, but he can do it!). He jumps off of the diving board and the edge of the pool and can swim clear to the other side and grab the edge of the pool and get himself out. He has grown so much.

But, today we are doing a little babysitting and your brother is on movie #2 for the day. During movie #1 he was pretty active, playing with trains and cars, but this movie has him watching pretty intently because he hasn't seen this one for a while, so now he is just standing at the coffee table watching the movie.

Anyway, other than swimming and movies, nothing too exciting is going on here. We have been tooling around town looking at boats and are going to look at another one this afternoon. I really would like to have a boat but am nervous about bringing a newborn out there. I guess we will just have to wait and see.

So, little one, I am still very excited to meet you and hope you come to hang out with us soon!

Love,
Momma

6

2010-06-06T19:39:00.000-07:00

Six!?!

Really!?!

Gah! I remember when I was typing 222! It seems like this has taken so long, yet it has been so fast. These last couple of weeks though have been really really long. I am just so anxious to meet this little baby and to find out if it is a boy or if it is a girl. And, I want to make sure the little bean is healthy and happy. I know that this baby will be sleeping good through the night as you already do little one. You sleep when I sleep. There were only a handful of times when you kept me awake at night stretching and swishing around. But, lately, you have been so quiet. I think you have run out of room in there so you have been pretty quiet.

Anyway, I have also been having conflicting feelings about the big boy too. I feel so bad that pretty soon I am going to have to divide my attention between him and you, little bean. I hope that he doesn't get upset with me. But, I think he is still pretty young and should adapt quickly. I just want him to be happy and I love him so much, it is often hard to think that I will have so much love for another child. I hope that it is in me! I know that people say it all the time, that it is a no-brainer, that having another one is easy as pie and you will summon that love out of somewhere. But, where? Oh, I know it will be good and easy, but I am worried.

So, we went to the doctor on Thursday. She checked me and said bluntly, "see you next week." I said, "really?" In a surprised/bummed way.
I said, "but my next appointment isn't until Thursday which will leave me 2 days from 40 weeks."
She said, "ok, then, come in on Tuesday and we will discuss induction."
I was walking on air.
I think that we will have you before next weekend, little one.
And, that brings us back, full circle, to the big boy.
All weekend, I have been thinking that "this is going to be the last whole weekend where it is just the 3 of us. Swimming in the pool together, going places together, putting him down for his nap, having dinner together."
Soon, I'll probably be feeding the baby while Daddy and big boy eat dinner, or some variation of that.

I'm just so scared. But, I guess it is inevitable.

It is going to happen in less than 6 days I think!

I can't wait to meet you little one!

17

2010-05-26T14:20:00.000-07:00

Well, little one - you had me scared last night. You had me calling the doctor and going into the hospital!

I started feeling contractions about 2:00 yesterday afternoon. Your Daddy came home and I told him that I was feeling contractions and all he said was "Is that your way of saying you don't want to go camping this weekend?" (insert sarcastic ha ha here).

Not really.

But, I brushed it off as Braxton Hicks contractions and went about doing what I was doing. But, then, around 5:00 I started feeling this horrible lower back pain. I was reading online that if you start to feel these feelings you should contact your doctor. So, I hmmmd and hawed over it but decided to call the doctor. She suggested that I go into the hospital to get checked and have you monitored. So, I did. I packed up my little overnight bag in anticipation of staying and having you at the hospital, but they didn't think I was ready yet and said that I was just experiencing normal aches and pains of pregnancy. Now, don't think that I am a complainer, because I really don't like to complain, but it was really hurting and I really was having serious contractions. I only went to the hospital one other time for pain and that was when I had diverticulitis. I think if I would've waited any longer that time, I would've had a torn intestine and I probably would've had to have had surgery. Luckily, it was caught just in time.

Anyway, back to you!

So, after being checked and monitored, they sent me home and I got home about 10pm to a quiet house. No one stayed up to see if I was ok.

But, I guess at least the porch light was left on for me.

Well, today is a new day and everything seems better. I had lots of crazy dreams about you last night, giving birth to you, having you, but you know what, you never revealed to me if you were a boy or a girl. Isn't that crazy? At least, not that I can remember now.

I still don't know what to do about this upcoming holiday weekend, but hopefully something will come up.

18

2010-05-25T14:46:00.000-07:00

I'm not ready.

But, I am ready.

I am currently sitting on the couch, in front of the fan, listening to a quiet house that has two sleeping kids and a sleeping dog in it, experiencing contractions. My water hasn't broke yet, I think it is just Braxton Hicks contractions, but man, this hour has been full of them. Plus, they have been pretty frequent and are long in duration. It is right across my midsection too.

I wonder if you are going to come a little early, little baby. Probably not - I think I'm just getting ready. Plus, there is a whole 18 days left to go. That is almost half a month. But, I guess we will see.

I'm making banana bread so the house smells good too.

Oh, and on a positive note - this "spring" has been so excellent for us. Not hot at all. And, we had an awesome cold front come through this past weekend that really cooled things off. Two days of having the doors and windows open all day this late in May is pretty unheard of. I am so thankful though that it hasn't been hot. Being pregnant and hot isn't too much fun. Luckily there is only 18 (more or less) days left. Then I can cool off with a nice cocktail. Ha ha!

I feel like your bedroom is almost finished. I just need to get some shelves for your wall. I feel bad that you don't have a closet, but I guess that is ok - Brannan never really used his closet until this past year anyway, and doesn't really use it - I mainly use it to hang his stuff up. You both could probably use the same closet, but I'll see what I can do with some shelving on your walls. I'm sorry you are going to have to look at a gun safe and a computer desk and an extra queen bed - but I'm sure we will have lots of fun hanging out on the bed together. Probably not too much fun with the gun safe (although your father will probably disagree) or the computer, but hey, we have to put them somewhere. Our house is pretty small, like really small, but yanno what? It is a lot better than what a lot of other people have. We have a pool and our own house and our own yard and we can paint the walls whatever color we want and we can destroy our walls with pictures and stickers and not have to worry about it. And, at least you have your own room! You don't have to share it with your brother.

Yet.

Hee hee.

I bet you will want to share it with your brother when you get a little older. There is a pretty cool bunk bed setup in there. You just wait and see.

22

2010-05-21T10:08:00.000-07:00

So, we need something to do over Memorial Day weekend.

Byron has a 4-day weekend and I really, really do not want to go camping. I mean, I do want to go camping, but the idea of getting up and out of the tent 6 times in one night really isn't appealing to me at all. It just kinda sucks thinking about it actually. But, maybe we will just go to get out of town.

But, my other plan right now is to buy a boat. A pontoon boat specifically.

I have one on the radar from Craig's List. I have emailed the person twice already.

Let's see if it comes through for us.

I hope so! I have always wanted a pontoon boat! It looks big, but not that expensive. I bet it is a scam. But, I hope not.

Well, we are going to go get out of the house for a bit now.

25!

2010-05-18T09:21:00.000-07:00

Yeeee haw!

We are almost there little one!

You have been being such a good little baby in there, I'm going to be sad to see you out of there, although you are making me a little tired. Oh, and I can't wait to sleep on my stomach again. I really do like to sleep like that, on my stomach, but right now I have to sleep on my sides, but yanno, that is a-ok with me if it is good for you! You have been making my hips hurt a little too, but I know that will go away. I know I will be sad in like a year when I will want to be pregnant again so I'll have to remember these times. That is precisely why I am writing this now!

Anyway, 25 more days. They seem to be flying by.

I have most of your room prepared. I just need to find places for most of your clothes. Oh, and we need to find a name for you too. Maybe I'll talk to your daddy tonight about names. I have a big list of names that I like so I'll show him that list tonight while we are eating some dinner. Oh, and dinner - you have been making me not like dinner too much these days either. See, about a month ago, I was a voracious eater. Now, I really could take it or leave it. Breakfast is good - but usually consists of cereal or something sweet. Lunch, eh, that's getting on the iffy side too. I used to start planning lunch at about 10:00, but now, it is kinda like whatever is in the fridge. I feel bad too because I see the boys standing at the fridge, looking blankly at it, like there is nothing good in there to eat. And, since I do all of the grocery shopping, it is my fault that there isn't anything good in there. The only thing I get excited about at the grocery store these days are good deals on diapers! And, boy baby, let me tell you about this deal I found last week!

So, I am going shopping by myself on Friday because it was "boys day out" and they went to lunch and did their own stuff. So, I go into the local grocery store, head straight for the clearance section and a light shines down from above and I hear a chorus of "aaaaaahhhhhhhh" and see glitter in the air as I look straight at the shopping cart FULL of size 3, 4 and 5 Pampers that are on clearance! Holy cow! I had to text your daddy and tell him the good news. I almost just took the whole dang cart because $9 packages of diapers were marked down to only $3 each! It was so awesome - and I had a ton of coupons for $1 and $2 more off of the packages. It was so sweet. I got literally over $100 worth of diapers for only $11. It was the most beautiful score ever. I have been waiting so long for these dang diapers to go on sale and finally they were there, just at the right day and time. Two other moms came quickly behind me and started grabbing at packages too, so I had to be a little aggressive, but I got a lot of them and now I am regretting not getting more.

Anyway, so that is pretty much the only thing I get excited about at the grocery store these days. Food isn't too much of a friend like it used to be. But, NAPS are!

I heart naps.

Seriously. I can't wait until 1 or 2 in the afternoon - it is my most favorite time. Well, only if I can get the kids asleep too.

Well, I just wanted to check in with you and tell you that I'm really looking forward to seeing you and meeting you and making sure you are happy and healthy. I know you will be, I just want to see for myself. We have another appointment on Monday - this time they will start to check me internally to see if you are getting ready to come out. I'm suspecting you aren't yet, but we will check just to make sure.

So, it is that magic hour in the afternoon - 2:00 and both kids are in their rooms (J and B).

Must.go.rest.

37

2010-05-06T08:00:00.000-07:00

The boy woke up so early today. 6am. Ugh. I think it is because the sun is getting him up earlier and earlier. Even though we have a duvet cover over his window, he still wakes up. And, I went to bed at 8 last night hoping to fall asleep, but got sucked into watching something dumb on TV. So, I finally turned off the TV at about 9:15 and woke up about 9:40 woke up super sick and had to vomit. Ick. Then I was up from 3-4 and was in a good sleep when I heard the boy wake up. Oh, and my hips were hurting too. Ugh, I don't mean to complain so much, but I think this will be the last time I can complain about being pregnant since my husband doesn't want to have any more children (boo hoo).

Anyway, the boy was complaining that he couldn't find something this morning so I went into his room and said we would find it later and he just needed to lay down for a few more minutes. Then he said something that just crushed me. He said "Ok, Mom. You are my best friend."

Oh be still my beating heart!!!!!!

I said "you are my best friend too, buddy, I love you" and walked out of his room back into my bed in hopes of catching a few more zzzz's but I couldn't stop thinking about what he said. He is just too damn sweet, I tell you.

I know when he is like 7 or 8 or 9 I won't be hearing this, and I hope he still loves me when he is 16, 17 and 18. These days are just so precious and I love every single thing he says. I want him to remember how he feels about me when he turns into a teenager.

I only wish.

39

2010-05-04T18:49:00.000-07:00

I am so tired today.

I can't even think of anything good to say.

It is getting hot here. It isn't in the 100's yet, but that is just around the corner I'm afraid. I have pulled out the sun dresses and have been putting away all the pants. No need for them anymore. Especially maternity pants! Although I did keep a couple out just in case I need them for something.

I think I finally have the baby's room all settled. All except for the clothes. I started going through them today. I have a gigantic bucket full of them from Brannan. It is amazing how many clothes I have kept!

Well, if we have a little girl, I think she might be wearing quite a few little boy clothes!

47

2010-04-26T15:51:00.000-07:00

He can sing his ABC's now. It is too cute. He skips over a lot of the middle part - mostly because he has a hard time pronouncing the letters separately, but that's ok. I'll let him keep singing.

I am trying to teach him how to write. He is getting more interested in drawing and coloring, so I'm trying to have that more easily accesible.

He remember so much! He remembers one conversation I had with him regarding naps. I told him that he needs to go to bed so he can get all his energy back so he can play again, and he repeats that to me all the time. It is too funny.

This weekend we didn't do much of anything - once again. But, that was ok with me. We moved a lot of stuff around.

We finally got the "big boy bed" and installed it. His room looks great! I kindof envy it! He has all matching furniture and room for clothes in his drawers and a bookshelf that is mostly empty. It is pretty sweet! New sheets and a new bed. He hasn't gotten out of his bed at all at night which is wonderful. I was so worried that he was going to get in and out of bed all night but he hasn't. He is such a great and wonderful boy. He listens pretty much all of the time and I couldn't ask for a better child.

I just hope that the second one is just as good. :)

53

2010-04-20T15:57:00.001-07:00

I am bummed today.

Well, bummed and excited.

We are trying to buy a bunk bed set on Craig's List. We still don't have an answer from the sellers but I am really hoping that they will sell it to us. I'm sure they will.

But, I am bummed because soon we are going to be moving our Big Boy out of his crib and into a big boy bed! :(

Awwww....

He really likes his crib. He doesn't get out of it, although he can if he wanted to. He always asks if he can get out before he climbs out and I even tell him he can get out but he doesn't.

I am just sad because this is such a big milestone. He is transitioning from his crib to a bed. I mean, I knew it was going to come sooner or later, but now with the baby only 53 days away, we have to do something for the new baby. I guess we could've kept him in his crib and used a pack and play for the baby, but yanno, we are going to have to do it at some point anyway.

Just another step in his growing up.

Awwww....

54

2010-04-19T15:33:00.001-07:00

This weekend was a blur and pretty nice. Although yesterday was pretty warm, temperature wise.

Friday I had a nice "girl day" out. I went and got my toes done and right after that had a facial. It was really nice. I wish I could've had a massage, but it just isn't nice right now being pregnant. I mean, a prenatal massage is pretty nice, but I want to lay on my stomach and just have the tar massaged out of my back. That is the best part - when you put your head in the donut and you just sort of drift around in consciousness and not really think about anything too deep. Anyway, soon enough, I will be able to get a regular massage. I can't wait! Although, I will be really sad when I am not pregnant anymore. I am not sure how I feel about this one being the last baby. It is so much fun being pregnant, but Byron has made it abundantly clear that he does not want any more children. I may be able to persuade though, wink wink.

Well, then on Saturday we went to a company picnic. It was nice. This company goes all out for their employees, I must say. It was really nicely catered (as well as a picnic could be catered) with tons of food and they even had beer! They had 3 bounce houses and face painting and balloon sculptors and volleyball. We mainly just sat at the picnic table though and watched Squeakers jump in the bounce houses. He had a blast playing with the other kids. It was fun to watch. And, admittedly, I don't feel much like moving around these days. I am so doggone tired from being pregnant it is unbelievable! If I remember correctly, I had a lot of energy with the first pregnancy, but this one is totally wearing me down. My feet hurt at the end of the day and I really just feel like sitting on the couch and watching TV. I feel rather guilty though when my husband is chasing after the boy and doing stuff with him, but then again I feel like it keeps him busy and he likes to do that sort of stuff.

After the picnic we came home for some nap time and then we had dinner with our friends. It was good to have them over for dinner, we haven't done that in a while - probably because I haven't felt much like cooking lately.

Sunday we went to the movies to see "Dragon." It was cute and a good morning activity, but, man, are movie tickets getting expensive or what??? It was crazy! $14 for just my husband and I to go to a matinee! Oh well, I guess we don't go out too much so we can spend that on a movie. But, crap, I figured we could've bought the movie in a few months for that much money.

Then, the rest of the day was pretty lazy. More napping and sitting on the couch for me while the husband did stuff around the house.

He found a pretty awesome kids bedroom set on Craig's list that I really want to get. They want $550 for it. I can justify that much. I think if it isn't sold tomorrow, I will email them and see if they will take $525. I hope so. I really want this whole transition to go smoothly. But then what are we going to do with the queen bed? Oh gosh, I have no idea! Why is our house so small???!!

But, then I think about it and think that we are really lucky to even have a house these days.

Yes, yes - positive thoughts!

Plus, there are little birds out there saying we could have the chance to move to France or even to VA for a few months. How cool would that be? I would take either or, but VA might be easier. Plus, it would be for just a few months.

All in due time...

58

2010-04-15T10:13:00.000-07:00

The days, they are a-tickin!

Only 58 days to go!

Brannan has the most adorable thing he does lately. It goes like this:

B: Guess what????

Me: What?

B: I LOVE YOU!!!! (but it sounds like I loe you because he doesn't really say V's yet)

It is the most precious thing in the whole world and it melts my heart when he says it. I could be in the worst mood or frustrated with something and he will bust out with this little diatribe. It is so funny and it makes me laugh.

Oh, and also he has learned how to make farting noises with his black bath duck while in the tub. It is hilarious. Whenever I laugh he asks "I make you laugh mommy?"

Yes, little man, you do make me laugh, you do.

61

2010-04-12T07:57:00.000-07:00

We have been recovering from last weekend. The whole event was rough, and it feels like there is something missing from the house. I haven't had the guts to move her bed outside so the other dog can lay on it out there, and whenever I walk down the hall into the other room, I see the bed there - empty. She always laid on that bed. I tried to keep her on that bed because she was starting to get a little incontinent and I didn't want her on the rugs or on the couches (not that she could jump up on the couches anyway.) But, the bed is empty every day and every night it stays there. I have only seen the other dog lay down on it twice since she has been gone. It is just a constant reminder that she is gone. I know she is gone and I think I have accepted it, but she was with me for 14 years! That is such a long time! She was one of my children. She was my first child. I had to make arrangements for her, I had to sometimes pass on things because I couldn't bring her with me, I had to make sure she was fed and watered and cared for all of the time. I always think that dogs are sort of a precursor to children. Whenever I see couples with dogs, you know that the next step will be the kids.

I was telling one of my friends that even though you know that you will outlive your dog, it is just so hard to prepare for it and to live through it. I mean, 14 years - that is a pretty long time to live with another living being.

I also feel sad for the other dog. It seems like she is more quiet since Leia has been gone. I don't know how to explain it - I mean, I guess she has always been quiet, and she does the growling and the barking at random things outside, but somehow, someway, she seems more quiet around the house. It is hard to explain.

I have been giving her a lot of "inside" time this past week too. Normally, I would keep the dogs outside most of the day because it is so nice out there, but I have been letting the other dog in a lot so she can hang out with me during the day.

The only thing I am glad about is that Leia didn't have to survive another summer here. They were really rough on her as she got older. She was always hot and it was getting harder and harder for her to get in and out of the pool. Hopefully she is romping around in the pine trees with the other doggies that she knew in her long life.

In other news - had another doctor's apppointment last week. Nothing special - just the quickie checking the heart rate and measuring my belly. We were in and out in a quick minute. They said everything is fine. I only gained 1 pound since the last two week appointment. YAY! Next week we have another ultrasound. I'm looking forward to it. I always love the ultrasounds. I think this one might be the last ultrasound before the big day. I'll be 32 weeks and after that, I think we start going once a week for standard appointments.

But, the baby has been moving a TON lately! I mean, like really really big swishes and flips and punches and kicks. Sometimes it seems like my whole body shakes from a kick or a punch. It is pretty neat to know that there is a little growing baby in there doing its thing.

Finally, the only other thing on my mind right now is getting the baby's room in order. We need to do a LOT of work. Ugh. More on that later. I should take some before and after photos. I think I'll do that.

I can't believe only 61 days left. Gosh, I remember when it was 222 and it seemed sooooo far away. 61 days - that is only 2 months. 8 weeks! (about). Oh, little one, you are going to be here before we know it!

68

2010-04-05T14:40:00.000-07:00

It was a very rough weekend.

This past weekend we had to say goodbye to the best dog ever - my dog - my Leia dog.

We had gone out on Friday night to "movies in the park" at the local park. It was a ton of fun and Brannan had a good time watching Coraline the movie. We sang along to songs on the radio on the way home. We got home a little late, about 9ish, and Byron was tending to dragging everything into the house and I went straight for the door to let the dogs in.

The dogs came crashing in, as they always do, so so so happy to see us, ran past me and straight to Byron. He was standing in the living room right where the tile meets the hardwood. The dogs all crashed into him and Leia's back legs gave out as she slipped on the tile and she cried like never before. I started to scream and Byron kinda looked all around underneath him and just grabbed Leia and held her chest so she was hovering over the ground. She was still screaming and yelping her little doggie yelp like it hurt so much. I knew it hurt so much. I knew something bad had happened to her. I didn't want to face it, but I knew.

He laid her on her side on her bed that is right here in the kitchen. She started to shake in pain. I petted her and she wouldn't look me in the eye. We looked at her leg and it was all kindof tucked up next to her. She wouldn't stand up. We laid her there and just looked at her, not knowing what to do. I knew we had to do something, but it was already so late at night. I knew we were going to have to wait until morning. We gave her an asprin and started to get the baby ready for bed.

I felt so terrible and I knew she was in terrible pain. I kneeled down next to her on her round bed and petted her and cried. I knew it wasn't going to be good.

I busted into the baby's room and said we need to get her to the animal hospital and I can't lift her into the car myself. He curtly said to me "can I just get him into bed first?" At that point I knew he wasn't going to let me take her to the hospital.

We left her there for another half hour, her shaking stopped but her panting started. I know that is one way for dogs to deal with pain, they start panting. I tried to give her water, but she didn't want it. We decided we couldn't do anything that night so we would have to wait until morning. I went to the bathroom and cried some more and tried to get ready for bed.

I got really sick that night, woke up almost every hour to check on her and to throw up. At one point there wasn't anything left in my stomach to throw up. I checked on her again to make sure she was still breathing.

8 A.M. couldn't come soon enough.

We got out of bed about 6:30 and tried to take her out so she could go to the bathroom. She couldn't stand on her back legs at all. Byron tried to get her to squat a little to go, but she wouldn't. We put her bed outside so she could enjoy the cool morning air. The last cool morning air she would ever breathe in. That was her most favorite time of day. The cool mornings. She loved to sleep out on the patio and enjoy that quiet morning. She just plain liked the cold air - anywhere. She is like me, likes the cool and not the heat. I am so sad she is gone. I am so sad that she never licked me again. I would put my hand in front of her nose and every time I have ever done that in her life, she would give me slow, long licks on my hand. She wouldn't lick me after she got hurt.

So, I had some cereal at 7, watching the clock and knowing I needed to tend to the baby in my bellly - I was nauseous from not eating and throwing up all night and not sleeping. 7:45 finally came and I gently hinted that "daddy better get ready to go take Leia to the doggie doctor," talking to Brannan but really trying to get him to get her to the hospital.

We put her in the car - we left her on the bed and we both just carried the bed and the dog all together and set her in the back. Byron quickly went inside - I knew he was getting choked up. I sat there and petted her while Brannan asked question after question. "Why is Leia Leia Leia (what he calls her) in the car? Why is she going to the doggie doctor? Can I go to the doggie doctor? I want to go with Daddy." I just stood there and cried and petted her and said I was sorry. I knew I wouldn't see her again.

The next 3 hours passed with phone calls and decisions. X-rays and tears.

They found that she had dislocated her leg to the point where her joint was up by her spine. Her other leg had a fracture. There was a lot of arthritis. There wasn't anything that could've been done.

Byron had to stay with her those last moments. I haven't had the guts to ask him about it yet. I'm not ready to know.

I want to remember her in her glory. Running in the snow in Alaska, playing with the other dogs in Montana, riding in the back of Byron's Toyota through a hail storm in Oklahoma. Taking road trips to New Hampshire. Driving the Al-Can with me. Going on a road trip to Cabo San Lucas. Living in the car with me. Crying and laughing and dealing with all those grown-up things that I had to deal with over the past 14 years.

I got her in Flagstaff, moved with her to Utah and then to Alaska. She flew from Alaska back to Arizona, impressing all of the cargo workers at the airport as they let her out of her cage to run around before Byron picked her up. I didn't have any other contacts in Arizona besides my parents and didn't want to bother them to have to pick her up so I asked if Byron could be a contact - they called him first. Leia always loved him the best. She would always be at the front of the hiking trail with him. She wanted to ride with him, she wanted to be around him.

There are so many stories with Leia in them. She went everywhere with me. The only reason she wouldn't be without me is if I was going on a plane or a cruise - places that forbid dogs. Otherwise, she was with me. With us.

I remember when I first got Leia. I was living in Flagstaff. I called my parents to tell them the good news. My Dad said "what are you going to do with a dog?"

It turns out - absolutely EVERYTHING!

79

2010-03-25T16:27:00.000-07:00

You know when you are a Mom when you are in the parking lot and you look for a parking spot next to an empty grocery cart instead of a parking spot closest to the entrance.

Going to the grocery store today was funny. I let the big boy do his "own walking" and had the little one I occasionally watch in the cart. She was doing just fine talking and smiling and watching things go by. The big boy wanted to push the cart (from the front and walking backwards), so he actually wanted to pull the cart, through the grocery store. He was a pretty big help and I really only needed a few things anyway (but ended up with half a cart full of stuff), but when I started zigging and zagging, he followed, but I got frustrated because it was going so slow. I finally got him to pull facing forward so he didn't have to worry about running into things and we got around a little quicker.

We checked out, went out to lunch, got pooped on by a pigeon, dropped my water bottle in some stagnant fusty water and got home.

After I unloaded all the groceryies, I noticed a huge pack of Always pads on the counter. I was like "wth? where did these come from?" Well, I guess big boy wanted me to buy them so he put them in the cart for me.

Um, yeah, no.

Now we have to go back and return them. No biggie, just funny that I never saw them in the cart or in the checkout line as we paid for everything. It totally snuck right by me.

82

2010-03-22T17:27:00.001-07:00

Ok, so it is getting really close. 82 days!

Today I had another ultrasound. You looked great and you are growing steadily. At the last ultrasound (one month ago) they said you were only in the 9th percentile. Today you are in the 22nd percentile! Yay baby! Grow baby grow!

I was supposed to take the glucose test today too, but I guess the leftover chorizo burrito would skew my numbers too much so I will have to go back later this week to do the test. Bummer, especially since we had a babysitter for your big brother.

Pappy has been doing an awesome job of babysitting your big brother. He even changed a poopy diaper today with one arm in a sling. I have no idea how he did it, but he said he managed it. Wow, thanks Pappy!

Right now your big brother is taking all of his crayons out of his bin and spreading them all over the kitchen counter. We went out to lunch today after our appointment - I was hoping to get one of my favorite items of all, the salmon salad at Pasta Pomodoro, but alas, they were out of salmon! Dang them! So, I had to have the chicken salad instead. It was pretty good and man did it fill me up like the dickens. I am still not hungry. I think that will be my one meal for the day. Although I think you might like a milkshake later on for dessert.

You were so cute on the ultrasound today, but you kept your little arms in front of your face so the tech couldn't get a proper picture of you - but I saw your cute little nose and your little lips and your chin - you look so much like your big brother it is amazing. I know you will come out looking just like him and being the cutest thing on the planet.

Only 82 days left in there little one - make the most of it!

Love,
mommy

95

2010-03-09T11:54:00.000-08:00

Oh wow!

So sorry it has been so long since I posted!

I really wanted to mark the 100th day because it was such a milestone, but dang, here we are 5 days later and only 95 days left of this pregnancy.

My husband keeps saying that this pregnancy will be the last one. That makes me a little sad.

I wish we had a bigger house so we could have more kids - and I wish that money wasn't such an issue too - kids can be expensive! I wish, I wish, I wish. But, anyway, he keeps saying that this will be the last one but I'm not so sure. Maybe, just maybe, I can convince him into having another one. Although I am getting up into the "advanced maternal age" thing. Ha ha! That is something to laugh at! I sure don't feel "advanced!" Well, the point is is that I really would like to have just one more kid. Actually, I'd like to have two more to make a 6-pack! Ha! I don't think I have enough time left on my maternal clock though...

But, baby - I have been feeling you twist and turn and kick around a TON lately! It is so fun to feel you and to wonder what you are going to be like. You have been spinning and flipping like there is no tomorrow. Although, the one complaint I do have is that you have been making me sick - A LOT! I have yet another cold - and, at least it isn't nausea, I have been sick so many times this pregnancy, it is strange. When I am not pregnant, I am usually really healthy. I never get sick with a cold - only once a year, but man, this year I am feeling you! Brannan has been sick too and whenever he gets sick, he gives it to me. At least this one is on its way out.

Finally, just a little bitching - so, I have been reading a lot of blogs lately, and it seems that EVERYONE is putting up a stupid "donate" button on their blog for the dumbest things like going to BlogHer or buying crap for themselves. I mean, I understand asking for money for families that have cancer and need help, but, sheesh, c'mon - if you can't afford to go to a stupid conference, just deal with it! And, if you can't afford to buy crap for yourself, deal with it or put it on a credit card! Ugh! It is just so ridiculous the amount of begging that is going on these days...

114

2010-02-18T12:25:00.000-08:00

The time is getting closer. It is amazing how fast the time goes. This Saturday I will be 6months pregnant. I can't believe it. I remember last year, all those times when I would wait and wait for the right time to take a pregnancy test hoping that it would be positive! I can't believe that it is already half over - this pregnancy. It is more than half over! Wow. Only 114 days left. And tomorrow, we have another ultrasound. I think that my due date may be pushed further back though because they said that at my last ultrasound a month ago, the baby was measuring a little smaller than I think it should have. I'm excited to see what they say tomorrow.

I'm babysitting a friend of the family right now. She is about 6 months old. It is awesome to watch her develop. When I first started babysitting her a few weeks ago she could barely sit up on her own. Now, all she wants to do is sit up! I'm watching her right now chew on a toy and sitting there in the front room without a care in the world - especially one that could make her fall over. She is such a professional at it! And, to think, in 9 more months, I will probably be witnessing this with our child.

We don't know if it is a boy or a girl. I will be happy with either one, and as everyone says "as long as it is happy and healthy." Although, I am kindof secretly hoping for a boy because I really like boys. At least at this stage. I don't know if I can handle all the princess-y crap that little girls are so into these days. And so much PINK! I mean, c'mon! Do we really have to buy everything pink for little girls? I admit, I am coming around to the thought of more pink, and even have incorporated it a little into my wardrobe (something completely unheard of a while ago), but do we really need to buy so much pink for little girls? Also, I don't want to have to deal with all that princess/Disney/dress-up stuff. I mean, SO MUCH STUFF! Not to mention some of those dress up gowns run over $50 a piece! Can you believe that? When we were at Disneyland a while ago, I was so shocked at how much those dress up costumes were. Oh well. I guess we just have to be happy with what we get.

On the other hand, we had an ultrasound last Friday and my doctor called with the results and wants yet another one this coming up month. It scares me a little, but then again it doesn't because if there was something to be worried about, I think they might have made me come in a little earlier. And, on the bright side, we get to see the baby again! I don't think I am going to bring my husband though because I think he is getting a little bored of these appointments. Plus, then I can bring the boy over to my Dad's house so he can have a little quality time with him. Should be fun.

Today is cloudy and overcast - another welcomed wintery day. And, today is one of my favorite days of the week - yoga day!

Gotta go get ready.

124

2010-02-08T12:26:00.000-08:00

I swear, when that child sleeps, he is the cutest thing in the WORLD!

I just want to curl up right next to him and spoon him until he wakes up - but that would probably wake him up anyway.

I want to kiss his little face and feel his forehead and smooth out his wispy hair.

He looks like a little angel when he sleeps.

I bet everyone says that, but boy oh boy, he is so scrumptious I want to eat him up with chocolate sauce and sprinkles on top!

Anyway, yesterday was the super bowl. It wasn't too exciting. We went to a house that was soooo far out of town it was a long drive. But, the house was really nice. I wish we lived in a house that nice. I didn't get to see the upstairs, but I bet it was pretty cool. I wouldn't even mind the drive I don't think. It had a humongous backyard with a pool and two grassy areas. Sheesh - one of these days.

Brannan got sick last night too. He woke up at 1 kindof coughing and I felt him and he was pretty hot. I took a few covers off of him but he woke up at 2 saying he had "boogies" and needed to blow his nose. Byron picked him up and he started hacking and then threw up the 2 brownies he had for dinner. He was really hot too. Over 100 degrees. So, I stripped him and put him in some new jammies and we watched Shrek. We finally got to bed about 3:45 and he woke up at 7:30. He is still kinda hot today and super snotty so we are sticking close to home today. He is napping now and I need to go and take one too.

There is a pot roast in the slow cooker and it feels like winter today.

The baby is kicking and making me want ice cream.

I better do something about all this...

128

2010-02-04T13:40:00.000-08:00

Last night was a huge milestone.

Brannan pooped in the toilet!!!!

I know, I know, TMI - but I have to record this somewhere.

Honestly, I think it was a bit of an accident, but hey, at least he was on the toilet and we didn't have to toss another poopy diaper in the trash!

Daddy was getting him ready for the bath, sat him wide-legged on the toilet so he could pee and then voila! A nice little log came out!

We were running around the house shrieking for joy and offering treats and chocolates because of this huge accomplishment. We put him to bed praising his wonderful BM.

Then today, I take him to lunch, sit him down in the chair and catch a whiff of his nasty pants.

Shoot.

Back to the drawing board.

136

2010-01-27T14:57:00.000-08:00

Since I can't come up with titles to my posts, I figured I might as well just countdown the days until the baby is due. That way I can look back and remmeber how I was feeling so far out (or so close when the time comes).

Anyway, Byron's birthday was good. We had Meaghan come and babysit (she is great with Brannan) and we went and blew $170 at Flemings! OMG! It was all a gift card for watching some friends' dogs for two weeks, but man, I don't think I've ever spent that much money on one dinner for two people before - and I wasn't even drinking! So we were going to see a movie, but dinner ended up taking so long, we missed it and went to Monkey Pants instead. It was weird being in a bar and drinking water only. I can't imagine doing that all the time. It is probably one of the last times I will be in a bar for a while.

I found out yesterday that my unemployment benefits have run out. Man, that gave me a nasty feeling in the pit of my stomach. I really, really, really don't want to go back to work. I don't know what I am going to do. I don't have any sort of career goals - I really just want to be a mom! I don't know what my husband thinks. We haven't sat down and talked about it just yet. I think we may be ok with just his income, but we need to sit down and talk it out before we make any moves. Plus, with the baby coming, it just doesn't seem right to start in on some career path. Oh, who knows. More about all that later I think.

Anyway, I have to get dinner ready. Everything is feeling good baby-wise. I haven't had hardly any nause and I have been feeling the baby moving around a lot more lately. It is getting pretty exciting being at 20 weeks. And, I got approached by a woman today asking me for pregnancy/workout advice at the gym. Pretty good for the ego, that's for sure!

142

2010-01-21T18:36:00.000-08:00

Wow! The days sure are flying by lately. All of our visitors have left today. It seems like 10 days just flew by, and we didn't even get half of the projects done that we wanted to. Oh well, at least we got the flooring in and half of the countertops. One of the countertops didn't work out so well, so it will need to be redone. Fun fun.

We had an ultrasound on Tuesday.

Here you are little puddin pie...

Mommy drew some funny stuff on your face.

Daddy and I think you are a little boy - mostly because everyone else thinks you are going to be a girl. At the ultrasound, the technician looked at your privates, but we didn't! We looked at each other and giggled a little bit knowing that in 142 days you are going to show them to us and let us know who you really are.

I posted this picture out on Facebook too. Not too many people commented on it. I guess they didn't find it as funny as I did. Oh well.

Today we are having a major storm. All this week things have been rainy and windy and wet. I love it, but unfortunately we had visitors from the northlands who didn't really need to see clouds and rain. Oh well - I can't predict the weather. I made lots of food and tried to keep everyone happy. Sunday was a really tough day for me. Up early for the marathon, then cooking, then running around the marathon for 2 hours looking for people, then hosting a little party. Whew - I was dog tired! I haven't been that tired in quite some time, honestly.

So, now I am catching up on all the laundry and things are kindof back to normal. Daddy is reading a bedtime story to the big boy and then putting him to bed (in his OWN bed tonight!). Brannan has been in our room in his pack and play, but man, he is a light sleeper - AND he talks in his sleep! He was talking about ice cream last night around 2am. He just kept saying "my ice cream mommy" and I would say "shhhhhhhh, it is still night night time" and he kept saying it so finally I said "ok, brannan, now go to sleep." Too funny.

Anyway, nothing major happened while everyone was here on vacation. Just the regular stuff. Lots of visits to the zoo, the parks and a museum. We went to Disney on Ice one night and the kids really liked it, I think. It was cute to see.

I am so tired tonight I am going to bed early in my clean sheets! Nothing better than clean sheets on a tired night.

150

2010-01-13T14:48:00.001-08:00

One hundred and fifty days to go little puddin! Puddin pie! What are you up to in there? I haven't heard from you in a while. Things in there have been a little quiet. We are going to see you soon though. On tuesday we are going to see you! Daddy is going to come too.

We have visitors in town right now so the house is a big mess and kinda crowded.

We got a new wood floor in the front room today though, so things in there look really nice. I can't wait for just a little more space, though. At least we will be able to sit on the couches again.

I really don't have too much time right now, but just wanted to let you know that I'm still thinking about you and can't wait until Tuesday when we see you!

BTW

2010-01-06T14:58:00.000-08:00

157 days to go. It still seems like a very, very long time...

Happy 2010

2010-01-06T14:36:00.000-08:00

Do we say "twenty ten" or is it "two thousand ten?"

Not sure.

I guess I haven't really been put to the test yet since my toddler barely cares what day of the week it is let alone what year it is.

Anywho - it is already the new year and it is starting out great. We finally got most of the house painted. Just a few touch ups here and there. We ripped out the front room carpet - I wish we weren't storing the old carpet behind the couch, but whatever, I'll just deal with it. And, we got the wood flooring here, so we are all ready for my brother in law to come and help with the handiwork. I can't wait for the new floors to be in. It will look great. Oh, and we got our countertop laminate, and I really need to go and get a new sink. I can't decide what to get - another stainless steel or should I get a black ceramic? All the other appliances in the kitchen are black, so maybe a black ceramic sink? Ugh, not sure! Maybe my sister in law can help when she comes to visit.

They will all be here on Monday. It should be fun. We are scheduled to go to Disney on Ice one night and then there is the big marathon that is really the whole reason they are coming for (as well as other family members) which should be fun. I guess I should make a big dinner for Sunday night, but I'm not sure what I should make, and if I can make enough to feed everyone. There are going to be a LOT of people here. I don't want to make any decisions. I guess that is why I have been called a pushover. I don't want things to go wrong, so if I happen to make the decision to do something and everything falls apart then I don't want it to be my fault. Well, whatever. I'm going to feign tiredness or something so I don't have to be involved in too much.

Brannan has been so good lately. He has been really loving. He comes up to me and gives me spontaneous hugs and says "I love you mommy!" It is the cutest and most endearing thing ever! And, he even wants to sit with me now and then when he is watching Sesame Street or something in the morning. He is still taking naps, thankfully, and if he doesn't get a nap, he is absolutely freaky! He gets a little sleep deprived and won't listen if he doesn't get a nap. I'm not sure what is going to happen next week. He is going to be totally crazy. I hope he and Wyatt will be on the same schedule so they can nap at the same time.

I'm really excited to see my sister in law. We have become really close these past few years. It is great to have someone else to vent to when you need to. We have husbands in common and that means a lot. They are totally similar and totally different in ways, but they are related, so we can relate. It is great. The husbands have also become really close too. I'm so happy about that. They used to hardly ever talk on the phone to each other, but now, they talk at least 3 times a week. It's great. I'm glad that they get their "guy time" with each other. I can't possibly offer all the stimulation he needs, so at least he can get it from another brother.

Otherwise, January is off to a good start. Went to yoga today and my instructor is really sweet, she came up to me, readjusted me a little and asked how "we two" were doing today. It made me smile. I feel a little awkward at times doing yoga, especially when I see myself in the mirror (particularly sideways) and see my belly, but I'm so excited for this next baby that I don't even mind.

I've been a little worried about the baby lately. I had some mega major cramps a couple of weeks ago and have barely been able to feel the baby move at all. Maybe it just isn't time yet, but there is still a little anxiety there. It doesn't help that I read all this stuff out there on the internet about things going wrong, either. It doesn't help at all.

This year I'm going to try to be a better friend - especially to one particular person. I guess I'm not that easy on her so I've been trying to invite her to all sorts of things lately. I know I will get a "no" most of the time, but I think if I were single, I'd love to have all these invitations. Speaking of which, I need to go invite her to another event.

It's over already

2009-12-30T07:50:00.000-08:00

Gosh, so Christmas 2009 is over already?

I took down the tree and the decorations yesterday. The tree was all dried up anyway - that's no surprise here in Arizona.

We took down the outside Christmas lights like 4 days before actual Christmas because we decided to paint our house then. Hmm, great idea. Although, the house looks really nice and looks like it belongs on the beach somewhere with its peachy hues.

So, I thought yesterday was a good day to take the rest down. Yesterday I had a strong nesting push. I scrubbed one of the bathrooms, picked up dog poop, cleaned up the front yard, did some more painting, unloaded the dishwasher - it was great to get all that stuff done. Painting is hard though with the little dude around. He wants to get up on the ladders too. But, he is too cute because whenever I am up on a ladder he always says "careful mommy!" My heart melts every time he says that!

I have been so out of energy lately, I really just don't want to go to the gym at all. The only reason I really want to go is so that Brannan can play with other kids and kindof get him out of the house. I think we will hit the mall this afternoon so he can play at the indoor play area they have there. He really likes it there, so that should be fun.

Anyway, Christmas was great. My sister was here and she and my parents totally spoiled Brannan. Oh, and his grandma from Florida spoiled him too. She mailed him a lot of presents that we opened at our house on the morning before we went to my parents house. He got so much stuff, but I think my parents are giving him a "last Christmas" before the baby gets here - one all for himself. But, the baby won't really know Christmas anyway for a couple of years. I'm not really sure even Brannan understands Christmas. We aren't religious, so we don't celebrate the birth of that magic dude or the death or whatever Christmas means in religion. We just put up pretty lights and a tree and have presents and a party and a big dinner. That's about it. Oh, and Santa. He will definitely know about Santa next year. He won't know about baby jebus, that's for sure.

But, now it is almost time for the new year. I can't believe it is already here. The time has just flown right by. This next holiday will be the hardest one for me to get through without drinking. It is my most favorite holiday of the year. And, I can't drink!

Ugh!

Ok, maybe one glass of wine?

Maybe my hband will let me open one of our good bottles of wine and I can have a nice glass of the Babcock wine. Yum.

So, tomorrow is New Years Eve. My favorite holiday.

I rememeber, one of my most favorite years, we were in Montana with Lee and Sandi and we did "shots around the world." We watched the countdown on tv, wore silly costumes and did shots every time it turned midnight in other parts of the world. It was such a good time. Then we went walking in the snow after midnight to a party in a basement where I started to lose time and events.

Now we all have kids and responsibilities and have to get up before 9am to tend to those things. We probably won't be staying up until 3 or 4am this year. Maybe next year.

Landing

2009-12-21T07:21:00.000-08:00

I remember my plane landing as I moved back home from Alaska.

The tires hit the tarmac at Sky Harbor and I cried. I was crying a lot those days because the person who I was most connected to had cheated and lied to me. Then I had to pack up my whole life, make altering decisions and move back home. Well, I didn't "have" to, but I thought it was the wisest decision. Looking back on it, it was the best decision. Since I came back home, I had some of the funnest years of my life, met, dated and married my current husband and had a little boy and have another on the way. But, those dark days in Alaska were hard on me. I had to decide quickly what to do.

After finally deciding to come back home, I had to make all sorts of arrangements. I had to ship my truck home, I had to mail all my important momentos home, I had to sell everything I owned so I could get rid of it (there was NO way I was going to let him keep my couch and my sea kayak and anything else I could think of).

There were a lot of tears. I called my mom practically every day in tears from work. I called her work because she has an 800 number and she is always at her desk. I'm sure my supervisor at work thought I was nuts. I worked in the classified department at the newspaper, so they could click in and listen to my calls at any time. But, when I finally decided to leave, my supervisor was more than supportive of my decision. I can't remember her name to this day, but I remember her being like a mom. It makes me tear up right now thinking about how supportive she was. I wish I knew her so I could send her a thank-you letter. She probably wouldn't remember me, but, hey, it would be nice.

Anyway, one day I was taking classified ads and I got a call in for a house for rent. It was perfect. It was really close to downtown, it had a little yard (for Leia), it had 2 bedrooms, a kitchen, a bathroom, and was just in my budget - I think it was around $500/month. I almost didn't want to publish the ad because I wanted that house. I spoke to the woman placing the ad on the phone and she said I could come and look at it. I went to look at it and thought it was perfect. I really wanted it. I thought I could live in my own house with my dog and work two jobs and be happy. But, I also thought, that if I stayed in that town, I would forever be pursuing something that I couldn't have. I had a REALLY hard time deciding on whether or not to stay or leave.

I had a few friends from work and from college that moved up there. I knew a couple who had a dog that went to college with me. I knew they were living in an apartment and wanted to get out. So, I told them about the best rental place in Anchorage. They were stoked! They took the place sight unseen. They were super nice to me for giving them the lead. They let me stay in their empty apartment the few nights before I left town with my dog and my belongings. They made me dinner one night in their new little home. It was nice. I was glad to have helped. But, then, as I saw them making their lives in the new little home, I was a little jealous and wondered if I had made the right decision. It was too late. I had to go back to Arizona.

The night that I was to fly home, I crammed everything I was going to fly with into a little rental car with a hatchback. It was really hard getting all the luggage and the gigantic dog crate into that little car. Poor little Leia didn't know what she was getting in to. We got to the cargo area where I was supposed to drop off the dog and they asked for her important papers (rabies vaccinations and whatnot). And, I SWEAR, I called the airlines a week before my trip making sure I had all the documents needed to get her on the plane and I did. When I got to the cargo area, they said I didn't. Holy fuck! I was screwed! I was going to miss my flight, I was NOT going to leave my dog in that godforsakenplace either. Luckily, the cargo people were super nice (all this was before 9-11) and they told me of a 24-hour vet where I could get the proper papers.

So, I crammed everything back into my little rental car, SPED on snowy dark roads all around Anchorage, cried at the counter of the 24-hour vet, they expeditied my appointment, I sped back to the airport, and finally got her on the plane. I then had to drop off my rental car, get all my crap to the airport and get on the flight.

It was hard. I was depressed and crying and worried about Leia and drinking while I was trying to get all this done. I don't know why I was drinking, I had so much adrenaline in my system it sort of cancelled it out and just made me have to pee a lot.

Anyway, all was well, I got on the plane, laid-over in Seattle, got back to sunny Arizona in mid-morning and cried when the tires hit the tarmac.

The rest, as they say, is history.

But, I'm going to try to document some of it! ;)

2009-12-15T13:55:00.001-08:00

Well, my birthday turned out to be a little fun. Nothing too special. We had Byron's work holiday party to go to. I got a cool henna tattoo on my hand. It is still there and it has almost been a week now. He won a box of chocolates. I'm sure he would've wanted something else, but hey, it is better than nothing. I thought I looked really nice in my nice new red coat. I bought that for my birthday for myself. It is really nice. It is 3/4 length wool. I like the collar best. And the huge red buttons.

Oh, and I actually got to go out and get my hair "done" for the party. It was pretty funny because I went to Great Clips. They only charged me $11 for a blow out and a curl up. I really thought it looked nice. So, then I come home and there is an envelope on the table. I asked Byron what it was for and he just shrugged his shoulders. I didn't recognize the return label and wasn't expecting anything, so I opened it and lo and behold - I won the "free haircut for a year" from Great Clips!!! It is a card worth $100! Holy crap! I didn't even remember entering the contest either! But, hey, that is super cool and it will come in handy when I feel like I need a little something special for myself. I was so stoked. That was a great birthday present.

Then, the other present I got from my husband was an hour-long massage. That was on Saturday. I was so looking forward to just laying on my stomach for a whole hour while someone massaged my back. So, the appointment comes, I show up and the therapist asks me what's new. I say, "oh, not much, and I'm not sure my husband told you when he made the appointment, but I'm pregnant." She said "oh dear, I am going to have to adjust the table and pull out the other pillows because now I have to give you a prenatal massage." I said, "no, don't worry, you can just do the normal massage. I am only 14 weeks and I still sleep on my stomach, it is totally fine." And she just said, "no, I would feel better about it, and plus, you ARE pregnant, so I need to do this."

I understood because there is probably some sort of law or something that would prohibit her from giving me a regular massage. I was just a little bummed that I couldn't do the regular thing.

Anyway, I found out my girlfriend in NH is pregnant too. We are due just about the same time. It is really cool because I have been talking to her a lot on email. It is pretty much the only way we communicate. We don't do the phone. I don't know why. I just feel weird on the phone with people. I feel like I run out of things to say. But, when I am writing, I can just spill it all out. And when I am re-reading it in my head, it actually sounds good. But, I feel like we have been a lot closer now that we are sharing this pregnancy bond together. She had a really rough time with her birth last time. I guess she tore a lot and when she was sewn back up, they didn't do a very good job with it. Poor thing. I feel bad for her. But, it has been a few years now and I just keep telling her that this time will be a lot better and hopefully different.

Brannan and I went out to lunch today at Oregano's. It was nice but I realized that I was a little lonely. We were sitting out on the porch area and he was being a really good boy and all, but it was such a gorgeous day out, I really wish I had a good girlfriend or someone else to share it with in addition to my 2-year old. Although he is good at conversation now, he isn't the best, if you know what I mean.

Otherwise, I have another doctor's appointment on Thursday. Not sure what they are going to do to me this time. I have had all the genetic testing done so far. Maybe it will just be a standard check up.

Will keep you posted.

last day

2009-12-09T18:22:00.001-08:00

It is the last day before I turn 35.

I never dreamed it would be like this.

The day part was good. Went to yoga, went to the grocery store, went to Target. Then came home, cooked and took a shower. By the time the boy woke up it was already 3!

This evening took a drastic downturn.

I'm frustrated with dealing with a toddler, have a huge backache, have total horomones running through me, am frustrated with husband, have been dreaming about exes, have been wishing I could have a gigantic alcoholic beverage, frustrated again, angry at nothing but toddler things and all-in-all, just a depressive lame-o.

Sucko huh?

I didn't want my last day of 34 to be like this.

Although I am thankful I am pregnant since I have been wishing for this for quite some time, I am frustrated too. I am tired all the time and hungry and have lost all patience with the increase in tummy. Is that possible?

The dirty chili pot is in the sink and the red water is making a wonderful pattern.

I just want to sleep, uninterrupted, for like 12 hours straight.

It doesn't help that we are dogsitting two neurotic dogs either.

Ugh.

Tomorrow will be better.

35 means changing my attitude.

Hello mid-life!

Wow, that's scary.

Butter Bean

2009-12-01T15:09:00.001-08:00

Hey little Butter Bean.

I saw you today!

I saw you jump too!

It was pretty cool.

I wish your Daddy was there to see it. Unfortunately he had to work. I think he will come to the next appointment if he can make it.

We are waiting for you, little Butter Bean. I know you are going to be as cute and as smart as your big brother is. I just know it.

A friend

2009-11-30T14:21:00.001-08:00

Am I such a shitty friend? What do I do wrong? Is it because I am such a pushover and just want everyone to like me?

Today I went to lunch with a friend. At least someone who I consider a friend. I'm not sure if she considers me a friend anymore. She didn't comment on an important statement - really twice if you think about it.

I said, "You know, I can always use a girlfriend."

She shrugged her shoulders.

I said, "I hope you know that I do love you."

She said, "I know."

Nothing reciporicated. Nothing.

I feel like crap.

What did I do wrong? She says that it is me. She says that I'm always the one that is "pissed" at her. That's not true. I'm just trying too hard. Why do I care about it? Why do I let it put me in a bad mood? I don't want to lose a friend.

Should I write to her? Should I ask her what she meant?

I dunno. All I do know is that the conversation keeps playing over and over in my head and I'm not sure what to do.

Black Friday

2009-11-27T06:43:00.000-08:00

Well, it is the day after Thanksgiving.

It was a fairly non-eventful event. We ate a lot and cooked a lot. Went up to Grandma and PapPap's for the feast. My Mom cooked two turkeys. One for us to eat at dinner and the other one for us to take home so we can have leftovers. That is so nice of her. She is always thinking of us. And, she made like a gallon of gravy for Byron! He really likes the gravy.

I am looking forward to breakfast leftovers, that's for sure.

The big boy was really good, he didn't have a nap and he sortof started crashing around 4 or 5 pm so we had to skedaddle out of there about 6. He was really tired.

Well, one holiday down, two more to go...

Vodka and Cranberry

2009-11-25T08:09:00.000-08:00

Ok, I guess minus the vodka, but I can dream, can't I?

Thanksgiving is tomorrow already!?! What the?

It seems like I was just getting fired from my job and sweating over how much longer we had of summer until it got cool. Oh well, at least the nice weather is here and I'm still super happy doing what I am doing, which is being a Mom and a Mom-to-be!

Just hanging around percolating a little one.

And, my 35th birthday is just around the corner. Ick! I try not to think about it. I mean, I still feel like I am 25 years old and doing dumb stuff and not being responsible. Well, I guess the truth is is that now I am responsible and I take my kid to the doctors when he needs to and I take myself to the doctor when I need to and make sure there is milk in the fridge and all that fun day to day stuff.

But, between Thanksgiving and Christmas lies my birthday.

The birthday that will make me officially of "advanced maternal age."

I think about my sister a lot when I hear that phrase. She is 2 years older than me and doesn't have children. She is very very influential in her work field and really high up in her ranks and she is divorced now. I've asked her if she wants to have children and she hasn't ruled it out yet, but she is always so busy with work that she hasn't even had a boyfriend since she got divorced. Well, at least that I know of. Not saying that there is anything wrong with that. It is totally her choice of course. But, I remember before I was pregnant always telling people that I "wasn't ready" to have children or "am still too immature."

Truth is, I think it is better that you still have a little kiddo left in you so you can play with them.

And, another truth, I totally wasn't ready to be pregnant - it just kinda happened. It was a real surprise to us both, but it was the best surprise i've ever had in my life. I can't imagine anything better.

And, today, tomorrow and forever I will be thankful for the beautiful little boy that we created.

Hormones

2009-11-21T07:58:00.000-08:00

So, yesterday I was watching tv while the little man napped and a commercial came on, naturally.

It started out all wintery - the snow coming down, the perfect white-clapboard house, the perfect porch and the perfect holiday outdoor decorations, and this super handsome guy (mid 20's) rings the doorbell. A super cute (maybe 17?) girl opens the door. The guy says, "uh, I think I'm at the wrong house?" and she smiles her sugary-sweet smile, points to herself and says "sister!"

He gives her a hug and they both walk into the house. She says "you know, they were waiting up all night for you" and he says "well, it is a long flight from Central America" (or something like that).

Then, you see the coffee brewing and the scent permeates the house. The parents are awakened and they roll out of bed rushing to get on their robes.

The hunk pulls out a present with a red bow on it for his sister and says "I brought something for you from far away." She turns it around and around in her hands, pulls off the red bow and sticks it on his chest.

He says "what are you doing?"

She says "you ARE my present."

Cue the crying.

Damn horomones make me cry watching a Folgers commercial!

Oh boy, I wanna win!

2009-11-21T07:52:00.001-08:00

I've been entering tons of contests lately, so, I might as well enter and promote another one!

Yoga positions

2009-11-20T08:27:00.000-08:00

I love watching my little boy.

He can execute yoga positions like no one else.

No wonder they call one of the positions "happy baby" - he can do it with ease. He can also do "child's pose" with ease and i've even seen him sleep in child's pose. I also love to see him in the squat pose. He can play with toys for half an hour in a squat pose without his legs falling asleep or getting a tingly feeling.

Kids sure are amazing and bendy!

Yesterday he and his daddy were laying on the floor. Daddy was laying on his side with his head propped up by his arm (hand on head, elbow on floor) and the big boy was trying to emulate him. It was so funny to watch him try to twist his little body all around on the floor trying to get into the same position as his daddy was in.

On another note, I was going through his room the other day and finally got up the gumption to unplug his baby monitor. I guess we don't need it for him anymore. When he is awake I can usually hear him banging on his headboard or else he will cry for one of us. I just can't believe that he is over 2 years old and it is time for me to let go of the baby monitor! And that is why he keeps correcting me and saying "no mama, I'm a BIG BOY!"

Awww, dang!

Slow down big boy! Slow down!

January

2009-11-17T08:15:00.000-08:00

I know, I know - Thanksgiving and Christmas aren't even here yet, but I'm already thinking about January too much.

See, there is a marathon here in town and my husband and sister-in-law are going to be running in this marathon. It all started as sort of a joke, but now it has blown up into this huge thing. Now, friends of the family are going to come into town, my husband's mother is coming all the way from Florida and now we may have more people coming from New Hampshire.

All for this silly little marathon!

Well, and probably for the good weather too since it will be in January and Arizona has the best winter weather.

But, I'm a little stressed out about all the details of this. I'm wondering how I am going to feed all these people, where everyone is going to sleep, how the details are all going to come together, if I'm going to have ANY fun at all being pregnant and not being able to drink any alcohol. Yanno, it is just a big old stresser. Well, I guess maybe I shouldn't be too stressed about it. I am trying to get through the holidays with some fun.

I am expecting 9 people and 2 dogs from out of town.

Not all of them are going to stay at my house of course - geez, there wouldn't be enough room unless we blew up our inflatable bed and put it in the pool. I don't think people would like that very much though in case they rolled off the bed into the pool.

I just wish we had a bigger house.

On that note, the realtor that sold us this house is coming by today to give us a few tips on what we need to do to spruce up the house to sell it. See, since we are going to add another chitlun to the mix, we need a bigger house and more space. I have no idea how we are going to pay for it or if this house will even sell, but we have to try nonetheless.

Now I have to go clean up said house for said realtor.

222

2009-11-10T14:37:00.000-08:00

Only 222 days to go so my little ticker on the side says!!!

Although, I just got some bad news - a friend of a friend who also just got pregnant has miscarried. I feel really bad for her - I guess they have been trying for 2 years now to get pregnant. Although they have an adorable little boy already, it must be tough having to go through something like that. I guess she has to go for a D&C tomorrow. Ugh, I can't even imagine having to go through something like that. I also have (had?) another friend who went through the same thing. She was 16 weeks along and when she went in for her appointment, they couldn't find the heartbeat. Terrible!

Anyway, I'm just clicking along here. 222 days to go. Nice even number. But so BIG! I have an appointment on Monday - just a regular checkup. Should be fun bringing my 2-year old along to that appointment. Oh well. You do what you need to do.

Last night I was watching one of my favorite shows "Intervention" and all of a sudden I hear a terribly cry from an animal outside. It sounded like cats fighting, and I always like to watch a good cat fight, so I went to the screen door to see what was happening, and when the sound came closer, I knew it wasn't a cat, it sounded like one of those little yippy dogs crying. I thought it got caught in a fence or something, and when I went outside, I see a white streak of dog then a brown streak of dog tear past me. Then an older woman is kindof trotting behind them trying to chase them. I only had a t-shirt and panties on, so I really wasn't dressed to help, so I watched them go down the street and the crying stopped. I went back inside and resumed my tv show.

So, fast forward to today - I'm laying down taking a little nap and this skinny little beyotch with gigantic sun glasses comes storming up to my door and says, "I need to talk to you." and I say "uh, excuse me???" And she says "I need to talk to you about your dog." and I say "ok" and she says, "No, I need you to come outside and talk to me about your dog."

Damn!

I was half asleep and this little skinny minnie comes acusing MY dog (yeah, she is bad, but she isn't that bad) of almost killing her little yippy dog! She says "I have a dog at home right now that can't even walk and my Mom, who is on the phone, says it was a brown dog that looks exactly like that one right there (points to Zeffie)."

Uh, yeah, right.

I wish I had my wits about me, but I didn't because I just woke up, but if I did, I TOTALLY would've told her off! I mean, who is she to come and accuse my dog of almost killing her dog?!?

Whatever.

I told her it wasn't my dog, we were all in the house, the baby and my husband were asleep and I was watching my tv show.

She kinda believed me.

I told her I hope she finds the culprit.

Because I totally would've fessed up if it was mine.

If it was a half-dead cat, though, things might've been different.

8 Weeks

2009-11-09T06:42:00.001-08:00

So, I am officially 8 weeks along now.

I have been sick, sick, sick these past couple of weeks.

It isn't anything really violent, but it is just this constant low-level nausea that makes nothing appetizing. And, that is really off for me because I love food and I think about it all the time! Luckily, though, I have lost 6lbs not being able to eat very much during the day, so that is really nice. Oh, there are some things that I can eat - and that is anything and everything sweet! Oh man, I have a massive sweet tooth right now, it is pretty terrible. During my first pregnancy, I never woke up in the middle of the night and ate anything, it was just really normal. But, this pregancy, I will wake up and just daydream about eating dark chocolate M&M's. So, I have to get up and (pee anyway) and go to the kitchen to get a little handful. I fear that I am going to develop gestational diabetes because of this sweet craving. I sure hope not!

Otherwise, this weekend was nice. Pretty low-key. We rode our bikes around the neighborhood on Saturday morning perusing garage sales. I got some neat-o old Cuisinart slicing and dicing disks. They are cool. They should go with my super old hand-me-down machine, but now I need to find a stem for it. After the garage sales, we went grocery shopping and I cleaned up with the coupons! I love being able to shop with coupons! After all that, we went over to our friends' house for dinner. Brannan got to play with his little buddy and we got to compare the newborn little girls. It was fun and a nice visit.

Yesterday we went over to Grandma and PapPap's house for a visit. I really like to try to get over to their house at least once a week. I didn't get to grow up near any of my relatives - it wasn't that bad not being close to them, really, but since I have the resources available, I think I should really take advantage of those resources, no?

So, we are starting another week, and I'm at 8 weeks - only 32 more to go! Oh geez, it seems like so long! I think right now is the hardest stage or pregnancy because you have to put all these limits on yourself and you can't really "show" that you are pregnant. it gets so much more fun when you have a little baby bump you can flaunt. And, it is so much more fun when you can see the baby on ultrasounds and feel it kicking around. That is the best!

Well, better get the Monday started!

Dressing up

2009-11-04T08:16:00.000-08:00

I'm not dressing up for anything particularly good.

Just something I have to do.

More later.

Halloween 2009

2009-11-02T07:09:00.000-08:00

It was a mellow Halloween. What with me being pregnant and my husband just getting back from his hunting trip. He was exhausted from driving for 19 hours straight!

But, we still carved a pumpkin and my parents and our friends came over to celebrate. I made some french onion soup, but I was so nauseous I couldn't barely eat anything. This pregnancy has been a little strange at the beginning here. I have been really sick and have had a lot of abdominal pain. It kinda sucks, but it is tolerable.

Anyway, back to Halloween...

So, since we did a lot of Halloween celebrating last week in Disneyland, I didn't dress up (no one did really, but we did dress up the baby.

He was a skeleton!

He only went to a few houses because we have so much candy from our Disneyland trip - we were actually trying to give it all away! Plus, being 2, he really doesn't need that much candy laying around the house (either do I!)

Now, we are back into the swing of things. Going to the gym and going to the park. It is super nice out now so we can go outside and do fun things again.

I am so glad that I am pregnant now - I get to enjoy all the cool weather without being uncomfortable.

It was a fun Halloween, nice to hang out with family and friends. It will be Brannan's last Halloween as the "only child" which I am kindof sad about. He is so smart now and he makes sentences and knows what he wants and what he doesn't want. Even my Mom said she can understand what he says now! Oh, he is growing up so fast! He is such a cutie!

Anyway, we were all in bed by 9:30.

As we went for a bike ride yesterday morning, I saw 3 guys sitting on their front lawn drinking beer at 10 in the morning. And, since Halloween was on a Saturday night, that was a big party night around our neighborhood since we live in a college town. And I remarked to my husband: "Gone are the days when we wake up the next day and start drinking beer to relieve the hangover!"

Ah yes, we have definitely been there...

Undecided

2009-10-30T08:40:00.000-07:00

I can't decide if I should go to the gym or not this morning.

Really, I don't have anything better to do. The husband is still out of town and it is kindof lonely around here. I don't have any money to spend, so we really can't go shopping or anything. I guess we could carve our pumpkin, but, eh, that doesn't sound like too much fun right now.

I slept terribly last night. I don't know if I am getting a cold or not, but I had heartburn that made me want to throw up and my throat was sore and I couldn't breathe through my nose. It was nasty. So, at midnight, I took a sleep aid and a heartburn aid, and that helped, but I didn't get nearly enough sleep when the baby started to scream "No nap time Mama!" at 6:45 this morning.

On another note - we just got back from Disneyland this week. I went with my SIL and her two kids. It was a fun time, but, unfortunately, I couldn't imbibe in any cocktails. That was a bummer. But, then we went down further south to the San Diego area to visit some of her relatives and her aunt and uncle were extremely nice, but her cousins, oh my gosh, I have NEVER been treated so rudely in my life. I mean, these people only said hi to us briefly and then continued to lay on their couch and watch football for the rest of the morning. Oh, they even decided to make bacon and eggs and toast and eat it all in front of us without offering us a single thing. They sucked. They were just so totally self-absorbed it was insane.

Whatever.

I'm just glad it wasn't my family, although my SIL is totally different and nothing like those people were.

Today is a new day and I am so tired! Can I just do nothing today? I think I need to look for a job, though. That might be something that needs to be done for sure.

Ok, since it is Friday, I'm going to not go to the gym and start all fresh and new on Monday. Yeah, that's it. New on Monday. Good thinking.

It's official!!!

2009-10-29T12:35:00.000-07:00

I saw the baby's heartbeat yesterday!

Yay!

I have told a few people, but not really everyone yet. No one reads this anyway, so I can add my little baby ticker on the side.

I am so excited it is wonderful!

Although, it makes our house seem a lot smaller and we may just have to get a new house soon. And, thinking about that makes me want to clean and get rid of stuff so we don't have to move it all.

Anyway, thank you all for your congratulations! Ha ha, not that anyone is saying anything...

Still, I'm pretty excited!

Showers

2009-10-13T14:15:00.000-07:00

No, not the kind of showers I long for. The gray days that are filled with steaming bowls of potato chowder or beef chili. These showers I am talking about are showers that we take every day to wash off the dirt and grime of the gym or the sleepy cobwebs of the night.

I don't take them alone anymore.

The second I say that I am going to take a shower, a certain little boy says, "no, no, no, ME take a shower!" and then I say, "oh, you want to take a shower?" and he says "OH YEAH!"

Oh boy.

It is totally cute and endearing, but sheesh, is nothing sacred anymore? Can I not get a little tiny break in the day?

Sometimes I can sneak off to my bedroom and take a shower when he is watching Sesame Street, but mostly, he is following closely on my heels as I put stuff away around the house and the second I walk into my bathroom, he says, "no, no, no, ME take a shower!"

That little dude is too funny!

~

Anywho - went out to lunch today with a couple of girlfriends and their baby/neice. It was nice, but I think I ate way too much food. I mean, when you order the Ninja lunch special at this place, I think they are thinking of the Beverly Hills Ninja (ok, ok, if you didn't see the movie, the ninja is played by Chris Farley). Ha ha, I crack myself up, I swear.

Well, I guess I have to crack someone up since no one else is reading this.

Then we went to the post office where it was totally jam packed because of the holiday yesterday and the baby wanted to not move so I had to drag him out by the shoulder.

He is really getting very opinionated these days. It is quite spectacular. I think he is entering his terrible two's. Crap - he JUST TURNED two! I thought this didn't really happen until the last half of the terrible twos!?! Oh well, most of the other time he is a wonderful child. I have been really looking at him in a different light these past few days. These aren't just the last few days that he will be this age, or this tall, or this small - these are the last days that he will be the *only* child. I mean, we still have a long way to go, but soon he will be sharing our love with another in the family. It is scary and exciting all at the same time.

Tomorrow will be a good day.

6 years

2009-10-12T09:44:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was our 6 year wedding anniversary. I can't believe it has been 6 years already! Wow, how time flies. Plus, we have a 2-year old now too! What the heck happens with all this time? It just flies right past us.

Well, we had a wonderful, wonderful anniversary! It was full of many, many surprises. One so big I can't even say here.

Otherwise, I got a beautiful boquet of roses and tiger lillies. Then, we were going to go to a movie, but I really didn't want to and then we got to drop the kiddo off at friends' house for a babysitting gig and we went out to the Capital Grille for dinner! Yummy! It was so good I was ready to pop. And, I think my husband almost did. I don't know where he puts all that food, honestly.

It was a lovely, lovely day, and more about that later.

My car hates me

2009-10-05T16:01:00.000-07:00

So, I have this car, well, ok, it is a BIG car - one of those SUV kindof cars, so I guess you can techincally call it a truck, but I digress.

I have this truck/SUV/automobile that has it out for me. I don't know why, but there is one part of this car that hates me. It is the front speaker on the driver's door. It is a good speaker and whatnot - it works just fine, it is just positioned directly where my right knee pivots to get out of the vehicle. So, I'm just getting out of the car, turn off the key, swing my left leg out, then swing my right knee and leg towards the door.

That's when I get it.

That is when my right knee literally grates on the speaker that is on the door.

It is like I'm running a microplane across my kneecap.

And it HURTS! Man alive, does it ever hurt!

Holy crap, so then I'm doing a little dance and saying "owie, owie, OWIE!" and Brannan is saying "sorry, mama" and I say, "it's ok baby, it is mama's fault" and then jump up and down and turn around in circles on my other leg.

My last scab was almost to the point of coming off! And, now, the scab and more skin has been grated into my speaker.

That damn speaker.

And, owie, it still hurts.

20 things about me

2009-09-29T13:48:00.000-07:00

I love being a mom
I love to drink icy cold water all the time (unless I'm drinking cocktails)
Some days I really need some "alone/me" time but I usually don't get too much of it
When I was a little girl I tripped on a log and gouged a huge hole into my leg. I was too scared to tell anyone that I got hurt so I still have a huge scar
I wish I could wear nice clothes but my closet doesn't even have them in it
I hate my figure
I wish I could get pregnant
I really like to read cooking magazines
I love cake frosting - the frosting that you use to make letters and roses - that really chemically frosting, you know, red and blue
I am a huge fan of Howard Stern but I don't tell a lot of people because they think less of me - he really is a smart man!
I like to watch cooking shows too
I abhor roaches and freak out when I see them
My favorite thing to do is to take a sunset cruise on a boat - little boat, big boat, doesn't matter
I wish I wasn't such a pushover
I wish I had the balls to tell some people off
I like to be organized
I frequently can't sleep at night no matter how many pills/drinks I have
I still check on my 2-year old to make sure he is breathing when he is sleeping
I am really self-conscious
I wish I lived somewhere else

A tisket, a tasket, a Tonka in a basket...

2009-09-15T14:51:00.000-07:00

Today we went out for a playdate. It was nice.

It was nice to get out of the house.

It was nice to visit with friends.

It was nice to hold a little newborn and listen to her coo.

It was nice to drive home with a sleeping 2-year old to then put him in his bed and he is still sleeping! This is one of the first naps he has taken in weeks. Well, I guess because he was up at 6:45 this morning, he is a little tired.

*********

On another note - we are currently knee deep in a tick-infestation.

This is the first time I have ever had to deal with this sort of thing, and it so happens that the dogs caught the ticks from a friends house who was watching the dogs for us weeks ago when we went on our road trip.

She has been super sweet and nice about the whole thing and has even offered to pay for a treatment or two (come to find out that you need to have at least 3 treatments which are NOT cheap) and has even sent over Frontline applications for the dogs. She has been really, really wonderful about it, but it is hard for me to ask her to pay for the treatments. It is just awkward. I mean, it isn't really her fault that my dogs caught the ticks, but then again, I guess she should've told me before we asked them to dogsit that they had a "little" problem.

I dunno what to do. We are vascillating on whether to treat the problem ourselves with a hotel stay and the powder that you put down, or to take her up on treatment. I just feel like crap asking her for money, but its not like we have a ton of money right now to spend on killing ticks They are so creepy though. I hate picking them off the dogs and finding them in the carpet. I actually found on on Brannan's head! Ewwww! But, that was weeks ago.

Although, it would be kinda fun to go stay in a hotel room for a night and use the waterpark! Hmmm, maybe I'll push for that tonight.

Well, guess who just woke up from his nap. Gotta go.

Two!

2009-09-14T15:32:00.000-07:00

Well Brannan, you have officially entered the terrible twos!

Be still my heart...

Nah, it isn't that bad. You are actually a really good kid. You are easy to steer down the right aisle in the grocery store and you don't play with dirt unless I allow you to. The only thing that is hard for me to control is your terrific love of tormenting our poor dogs. These dogs, they are going to be saints when they go off to doggie heaven. They really do put up with a lot. I try to control it as much as possible, but man, when he gets a running leap at them, it is just kinda hard to control.

Anyway, we had a little birthday party for you yesterday. Your Auntie Chris flew in all the way from Charlotte to be here for you. She is so awesome! She spoils you and loves to play with you even if she has to sit on the cold tile floors to do so. She is really a great Auntie. Also, we had Grandma and Pappy, and a few more friends and their new babies. It was more of a show-off time for the new babies though since they are both only weeks old. That's ok though, it is understandable that you want to show off your little munchkins.

There wasn't any drama - not that there should be at a 2-year-old's birthday party, but yanno. We did set up a playdate for you tomorrow so that will be fun!

Anyway, it was a good day for you. I can only hope that the next 50 birthdays will be as easy-breezy-fun and full of smiles. I hope to be around for all of them little baby - oh I mean "Big Boy!"

(as my heart breaks just a little that you are getting so big!)

No more naps

2009-09-10T15:29:00.000-07:00

So, I guess the time has come my little darling.

You aren't giving me 3 hours to myself during the day anymore.

Everyone said to enjoy the long nap times while they were still here. I did - believe me I did. I put stuff up on eBay, I worked on his baby book, I cleaned the house, I cleaned my closet, I gathered enough stuff for a garage sale. I did a lot of stuff. I even went swimming by myself and enjoyed the few moments alone.

But now, now they are gone.

You sleep in the car when you are totally exhausted, but then the trip is usually less than 15 minutes. I carry you oh-so-gently into the house, trying not to make a sound, lay you in your cool, dark room, and shut the door without a noise to be heard. But then, not 5 minutes later, I hear you click on your little bee lamp and start rustling around with your books and your toys.

The napping days are over.

And - your SECOND BIRTHDAY is coming up in less than 3 days!

I can't believe that it has already been 2 years since you have been born. It has been a great, fun ride little man. Happy birthday to you! We will be celebrating with family and friends on Sunday. Just something little. Just a little get-together to watch you smash some cake.

I love you!

Rain bag

2009-09-09T08:14:00.000-07:00

It was Tuesday, September 1st. I was waiting for "the news."

My friends were having a baby. Mom went into labor the night before and I was just waiting for the news.

So, I went out to get the newspaper that morning and the rain bag that was covering the newspaper that morning was PINK!

See, we didn't know the the sex of the baby up until then and I was convinced it was a boy. But, lo and behold, the rain bag just HAD to be telling me something!

I brought in the newspaper, put the rain bag in the little vase where we keep them and waited some more.

Finally, 9:00 came around and I got the call. It was a GIRL! The rain bag was right.

Maybe it is just the little things that we notice that really tell us what is going on in the universe.

School

2009-08-24T14:25:00.001-07:00

So, school is starting again.

Another sign of things that are changing.

My baby boy is getting so big so fast. I want to make time stop right now while he is still taking 2-hour naps and can almost get a full sentence out. I know I can't do that, but I'm trying to savor every moment.

I see that other friends are taking "first day of school" snaps and posting them up on Facebook and it makes my heart ache. I don't know what I am going to do when I have to send him off to his first day of school. I was such a wreck when I had to leave him at his first day of daycare! He was only 6 weeks old. That is the youngest they will take babies at daycares around here. I cried and I cried and the lovely Miss Mary told me it would get better.

It never did.

I know, I know, that was a couple of years ago and he was smaller than a sack of sugar. But now, he is walking and talking and he has feelings and needs. How do you do it all the time? How do you let your little children walk out the door, step on the bus and not worry about them? I guess you always worry - at least that is what my SuperMom says - and I believe her. She was there for me when I was at my lowest when I was in my mid-twenties and called her every day, crying over silly boys.

Anyway, I digress.

I guess I am just going to have to learn to control my worrying. I have to give him roots and wings and at some point, let him spread his wings and fly away - hoping that he will always come back to his Momma for a little snack and a nap in the nest.

Spray Adhesive

2009-08-05T10:46:00.000-07:00

Did you know that Spray Adhesive works wonderfully as a roach killer? They should specify that on the can.

See, I have this TERRIBLE fear of cockroaches. They make me jump on top of furniture and scream like a little girl at the mere sight of them.

I can't kill them for the life of me.

One time, my husband was out of town and I saw one in the bathroom. It literally took me an hour to get the never up to kill the thing, then it took about 10 whacks with my Chaco before the stupid thing even died!

So, imagine my fear when I HEARD one crawling all over my magazines next to my bed this morning. I shot straight out of bed and ran for the garage. See, I knew who it was because I saw him two days earlier in the bathroom. After that sighting, I closed the bathroom door and put a towel along the floor on the outside hoping and praying that he wouldn't find his way out and into my bedroom and onto my bed and crawling all over me in the middle of the night.

Shudder.

Anyway, I am looking around in the garage for something to spray on this creepy crawly ick monster, and it really is a monster, it is literally 4 or 5 inches long, and I spy a can of spray adhesive. I have no idea why it is in the garage, but I figured WD-40 wasn't going to kill the thing, so I might as well try the adhesive.

So, I tiptoe back into my room, see the nasty copper colored creature and give him a quick spray (hoping and praying that he doesn't freak out and suddenly jump on my face), and just like that - he rolls over on to his back, sticks all 6 or 10 or however many legs he has together and just stopped moving! I mean, really, just stopped!

And guess what - I just did it again to a creepy on the tile floor!

It works, it really works!!!!!

The had part though is unsticking the ickmonster from the floor to flush it down the toilet. Yeesh.

Summer already

2009-06-23T08:08:00.000-07:00

So, it is summertime here, that means hot, hot, hot! But, we are trying to keep busy doing cooler things like going to the gym and hitting the mall and going to the splash parks. I particularly love going to one of the local shopping centers where they have a play fountain area for the kids right in front of a Mojo frozen yogurt shop! Oh, the joy! I get to have a frozen yogurt and watch the kids run around like crazy in the water.

Brannan has been having fun lately. A couple of weekends ago we went to our friends house for a BBQ and some visiting. Obviously, it was a hit for them! They are only about 9 months apart in age and Brannan has a lot of fun being around him. I wish I could find more people with children his age to have him hang out with, but it is hard these days as everyone is working. I love what I'm doing though and try to play with him as much as I can.

Otherwise, we are getting ready for another trip to Montana. This time it will be for the middle of July. It is coming up so fast! I need to really get on the ball with this one because we are going to be driving. It will be awesome. I haven't been on a road trip in a super long time. I was just telling my sis-in-law how it has been so long and want to go on a road trip, and all of a sudden, this opportunity comes up. Sweet!

One of my girlfriends from high school went into labor this weekend. I haven't heard from her yet about the outcome, but I found out that she is having a boy. I am so super excited for her. It was hard for them to conceive, so this is extra special. I'm sure she is basking in the joy of a newborn, but I so want to hear how it all went! I wish I wasn't 3000 miles away and could go visit her. I was actually thinking of heading back east to go visit her but luckily I didn't go that weekend because she went into labor! I can't wait to be pregnant again. We're still trying...

Well, I better get on with the morning activities.

An adventure...

2009-05-20T10:37:00.000-07:00

Today we are going on another adventure.

We have been traveling a TON lately!

We went to see Daddy in California twice in the past 2 months, had to go to Pittsburgh, unfortunately for a funeral and now we are going to Montana later this afternoon! This will be a good trip though, good to get out of the heat for a few days. We will be back on Monday, though. I wish we could stay longer, but, when you count it out, it seems like the right amount of time to stay with family before you really start to get on their nerves. The lame thing, though, is that the car rental is costing us more than the stupid airline tickets! Oh well.

In other news, Daddy is finally back from all of his traveling. He was gone for the whole beginning of 2009 with weekends and a coule of weeks home scattered in.

Flying with the baby will be a lot easier today since there will be two of us to wrangle the baby.

Just thought I'd catch up with a little blogging. No news on my end as far as being pregnant. I'm crossing my fingers for this month!

Also, my best friends here in town are going back east for their baby shower and I didn't get invited! My feelings really are hurt. I got a sort of post-invite by mouth only, but that doesn't count. Well, whatever, I guess I can't be involved in everything. It just really hurt my feelings. I did say something in half-passing, but I don't think it really registered. Plus, I added a little humor to it, so that probably didn't help the situation.

Anyway, off to finish packing.

Sandals in the snow

2009-04-29T19:52:00.000-07:00

So, this month has totally flown by! I think I say that everytime I write something here. I always look at the bookmark on the side of the screen and say to myself "geez, I should really write what is going on today" but then get all caught up in investigating something else or reading other people's blogs.

Nothing too exciting is going on except that the little guy is saying so many new words! We are practicing counting and it is really hard for him to say "one", he goes directly on to two when I start counting with him. He has his teens all figured out though, it is cool to listen to. I also taught him how to kiss me on the lips and that is the sweetest, sloppiest thing I have ever experienced, but I love every little kiss he gives me with those little tiny lips! He can also blow kisses and say "night night" to everything and everyone. He even said "night night daddy" through the phone tonight while he was in the bath.

Daddy is still away at his top secret undisclosed location, although we did get to visit him this past weekend. It was great. We went to a few beaches and got totally sand blasted and even drove the car out onto the beach and acquired about a pound of sand for the rental agency to suck out. We went out to dinner a couple of times and hung out in the jacuzzi too. It was a little chilly, but I didn't mind. I wore sandals the whole time, although I can wear sandals in the snow, it doesn't bother me. My feet are like little hot ovens, I can't hardly wear closed toe shoes for the life of me. I guess it is good I live in a hot climate or else I'd be overheating left and right.

I am going to get my hair done tomorrow and boy am I looking forward to it. I don't know why but lately I have really been into getting all the "girly" things done lately. I LOVE pedicures and could go every week if my bank account allowed me, and massages, well, don't get me started. Or facials. I actually fell asleep for a second during the last facial I was getting. It was so utterly relaxing, but then I had a sleep jerk and had to make myself stay awake for the rest of the time.

Daddy doesn't come home until the 10th and after that he will be home for quite some time. I just hope he has a job when he comes back. I am keeping a continuous flow of positive thinking because I just can't imagine them getting rid of such a maniacal trustworthy hard worker. I'm just keeping my fingers crossed.

The baby is in bed and now is my time to go and watch Lost!

It's tax day!

2009-04-15T13:33:00.000-07:00

Although we have already sent in our taxes, I only know that it is tax day because the post office was SUPER crowded today! I didn't know what was going on when I walked in there but then I managed to remember it is the 15th. Well, baby boy, we turned right around and headed to the tiny post office located inside a store closer to home. See, we have just recovered from a very interesting visit from family members. The beginning of the week started out great, but then it kindof went downhill from there. I don't want to get into specifics just in case people can find this site, but let's just say that the visit was interesting.

My sister, your auntie, was here as well, and I feel terrible that we didn't get to spend much time with her. I finally got you in a not-too-crabby mood and we went to visit her, but then I came down with the same illness you had a few days before. Nausea and vomiting don't make for very fun visits.

Speaking of which, that was the first time I've ever seen you throw-up-sick. I felt terrible. We were over at Uncle Sully's house having dinner with everyone and all of a sudden you just threw up all over my feet and my pants and your pants and your shoes. It was kindof gross. It is hard for me to clean up that stuff and no one was coming to my rescue. So, I just had to buck up and do it myself. Everyone I know was probably secrety laughing under their breaths watching me gag at the puddle on the floor. So, anyway, I quickly scooped you up and said we had to go home. We couldn't stay around for any of the easter egg dyeing. Too bad, but you really wouldn't have cared anyway. We came home and I got your "bai" (passifier) and your blankie and we sat on the couch and I held you when you got sick a few more times until everyone came home and I felt it was ok to lay you down in bed. You were sick for most of the night though, you woke up about every half hour throwing up a little here and there, but not too bad. You were fine in the morning.

After all of our relatives left, we had to take Daddy to the airport too. It was a bummer because we couldn't even spend the day with him. We were supposed to, but he got called back to work unexpectedly. That's ok though because we will be going out to see him next week! Yay for another trip! I'm just not looking forward to having to drag your carseat with us on the plane. It should be interesting.

Other than that, you have been quite the little mimicker these days. You are learning at the speed of light and you have new words every day. It is great and awesome to witness. You still love your bedtime stories and are getting quite opinionated. You know what you want and know what you don't want, that is for sure. Yesterday it was ice cream. I made the mistake of giving you a couple of spoonfulls of ice cream mid-afternoon (it was the only thing my stomach could handle) but that was all you wanted for the rest of the day. You probably could've finished the pint if I would've let you! You little monkey!

Tomorrow we should be back into our usual swing of things, gym, then park. I think this is the last time the weather is going to be so gorgeous. It is mid 70-s and windy, perfect! It is supposed to be in the 90's next week. Ugh, I am so not ready for the summer. I say that every year. I just hate the summers here.

Ok, off to clean some more!

Old friends

2009-03-02T11:02:00.000-08:00

I'm not big into this Facebook stuff. For some reason one of my girlfriends asked me to put up a profile so she could share some stuff with me. Well, now it is kindof getting out of control. I just reconnected with an old friend from high school, now 2 old friends, and who knows where it is going to go. I know for sure that I DON'T want to connect with one of the old friends who is connected to these other friends. He wasn't very nice to me at the end of our friendship. I didn't like him and said very threatening things then. Anyway, this Facebook thing is all the rage I guess, but I don't spend much time on it.

I was happy to hear from one of my friends and we have been catching up on our lives, but some things are getting a little too close for comfort. Oh well, I guess we'll just see what happens. I mean, it's not like my home address is out there anywhere.

On another note, we had an awesome weekend! Daddy came home on Friday and Brannan had the best time hanging out with him. He will thankfully be here for most of the month, so that is great. We went to a firefighter's chili cookoff on Saturday. It was nice and we ate way too much chili. Then we went to a little get-together hosted by one of Daddy's coworkers. It was nice. Yesterday we hung out with Grandma and Pappy and then had an early dinner. It is great to be back on a schedule again (an EASY schedule) when Daddy is here. He does all the bed time stuff, and I clean up and get ready for the next day. It is so nice.

We're still working on getting pregnant. I'll let you know how it turns out in a couple of weeks I guess. No news yet.

Post V-Day

2009-02-18T12:40:00.000-08:00

So, we went out to visit Daddy where he is working last weekend. It involves a plane ride and a 2 hour drive each way. It was ok. The baby did great for the most part and he really loved seeing his Daddy! He was all laughs and smiles and giggles and fun. I, however, wasn't.

I don't know what it was, I was just feeling bummed for some reason. I felt like I was the vehicle that got the baby to his Daddy, not a wife anymore. We did go out to dinner the day before V-Day and we said our respective "Happy V-Day's" to each other (with my prompting) and I gave him a present, and well, that was it. I know, I know, it is a totally contrived holiday and totally dumb, but you know what, he used to always at least get me a card or a bunch of flowers or something small. I don't need jewelry or any fancy underwear (which he has bought in the past), but something - ANYTHING!?!

Nothing.

So, the day after we were walking around a little town doing some touristy-stuff and I couldn't help it, I just started crying like a little baby while we were walking down the street. Just bawling! He kept asking what was wrong, but I couldn't put it into words. I don't know why I was so emotional about it, I mean, we went out to dinner the day before the actual day (I am an ex-waitress so I really don't like going out that day), but for some reason, I just felt like crap.

I finally got the words out in the car later and I got over it and bucked up and pushed everything aside like it didn't hurt me anymore.

And then, as we were leaving for our flight, we gathered up everything out of the car, I positioned everything that I could wheel and carry on the plane, he hands over the baby and sandwiched in between his chest and the baby was a card for me.

I couldn't read it then. I put it in my suitcase for later and we said our goodbyes.

When I read it later, I cried. I felt like a dumbass. But, he made an effort and gave me some words that I needed.

Now, we are back at home and counting down the days until he returns.

Play date!

2009-02-05T14:17:00.000-08:00

Today we are going on an actual play date!

Ok, well, it is disguised by having dinner with the other mom and catching up, but really, I'm just in the need of some other adult conversation and someone else to entertain the baby. Especially since that other entertainer will only be a year older than he is. At least they are still toddlers and can throw things and play with things together and understand each other. They can share balls and share sippy cups and share conversation that I know nothing about. Sometimes I have to walk around the whole house with the baby to understand what he wants. He is in the "pointing" stage and can't say what he really wants or needs. It is a fun stage because he is getting so much more independant, but also a little frustrating for the adults in his life.

He's having fun right now standing a book up on its end at the counter here while I type. It won't be long until he gets bored with that though, and I'll have to distract him with something else.

Well, baby, you are going on a play date today, and I'm probably looking forward to it more than you are!

More good news

2009-01-20T15:56:00.000-08:00

Well, not from me, but from friends.

Just found out another girlfriend is pregnant. She is 8 weeks along. Although very early, she is still "along".

I'm eagerly awaiting stupid-bowl weekend when my hband will be back and we can try to make another baby.

I don't know what has got into me but I am totally baby-crazy right now.

I see pregnant people in lines at the store and immediately try to figure out how far along they are. I see tiny little infants and wonder how old they are and then immediately assess their mommas to see if they lost the baby weight.

What is wrong with me?

Is there something in the water? I guess that is what everyone calls it.

Well, whatever it is, I hope I catch it!

Bring on baby number 2!!!

The weather is here...

2009-01-19T18:55:00.000-08:00

It is absolutely beautiful here these days. I just want to spend so much time outside!

We went on our nightly walk and I could smell someone bbqing on the way. For some reason it smelled like many times we went camping when we were "younger."

We are still pretty young, in the whole scheme of things, but it just brought me back to some other times. When the drinks flowed way too freely and somehow you ended up in your tent at night with all the covers on.

Now, I have to make sure all the covers are on the baby before I go to bed.

It is a crazy extreme.

But, I love it.

We played at the park and he went down the slide and I watched him run around the pool for about half an hour.

It was a great day.

But, he misses his Daddy.

Miracle

2009-01-15T17:45:00.001-08:00

Today there was a plane crash.

I don't know if I've been in a plane crash in my past life or what, but I always have vivid dreams of being in a plane crash. I could be a witness, a passenger or a pilot, I've had them all. They are my worst nightmares. Today another one happened in real life. And this one was way too close to home.

See, my sister is living in NYC and traveling to Charlotte all the time. She could have been on that plane.

Luckily, she wasn't.

But, if she was, she would have been ok, that's for sure.

It is just so scary, living in that eternal fear. You are propelled into the atmosphere in those little metallic tubes and you never know what is going to happen.

She had an aborted landing at Sky Harbor over the Christmas holiday. She has been really lucky.

I am so happy all of those people are all alive and happy. It is truly a miracle.

Birthmark

2009-01-14T13:52:00.000-08:00

Brannan has a birthmark.

It is on his right hand. On the top of his hand. The other side of his palm? I'm not sure what the right word for that part of your hand is.

It is cute. It is just like a little brown smudge. You could almost mistake it for dirt if you weren't looking at it really hard.

He doesn't know it right now, but I notice it all of the time.

It is the one thing that I will always remember of him.

His little brown smudge.

2009 already?

2009-01-13T14:02:00.000-08:00

So much has happened and I really need to keep journaling everything down because I know I won't remember it when time comes.

Let's see.

December was pretty fun. We started the holidays with my sister coming out to visit. It seemed like the week just flew by while she was here. I was determined to have her spend a lot of time with Brannan because she doesn't get to see him very much. I think she had his fill of him! Then, Christmas was here. No one went too crazy on the baby which I was pretty thankful for. We just don't have enough room in our house for toys. I know, it seems crazy, but I don't know how people do it - hide all those toys everywhere. I like to pick things up after a day of play and put everything in its place.

Anyway, after Christmas, we went up to Montana to visit Lee and Sandi. It was great fun. We just ate a lot of good food and did a lot of hanging out. Sandi and I went cross country skiing one day and we went to dinner at some other friends' house. It was nice to see everyone. And, not to mention the 30" of snow! Holy cow! It was awesome! The boys built a huge sledding hill which we had a lot of fun on too.

So, we came home and now here we are, already January 13th! Where does the time go? I can't believe it!

I found out that our best friends are pregnant with their first child and I also found out that a super good friend just had a miscarriage.

I'm not pregnant yet, but I'm crossing my fingers.

I won't see my husband for quite some time, so I guess I'll be without child for a while. He's going to be out of town for work, but maybe I'll plan an "ovulation" trip to see him!

It's funny, I could've swore I was pregnant this week and I took a test. I think the test was too old though because the lines were so faint, but when I looked at them in the light of my bathroom, it looked like a definite plus sign. I brought the test out to the kitchen, though, and showed it to my husband and he said that it wasn't "lit up". But, during those brief minutes while I waited for him to put Brannan to bed, I got really really nervous. Like when I found out I was pregnant with Brannan.

I took another test yesterday though, and it said it was negative.

Well, back to the drawing board!

It's not all about you

2008-12-09T13:50:00.000-08:00

It is so funny, I read soooooo many blogs from other Moms all around the country. I get many different views and many different scenarios and I also get to read about their daily lives. I still shake my head at the people who actually choose to go to that stupid fast food chain that, in my vocabulary, is called McDisgusting. I can't stand it. I haven't had food, water, bathroom facilities from that place in over 15 years. I don't know why, but it just disgusts me. And, I don't know why, but for some reason, I think down on other people who actually eat there. It can't be good, or healthy, no matter how much they choose to offer different "sides" for the kids. I walk through the mall every now and then and *know* every option that a parent can buy for their child for a lunch or a snack, but they choose to buy those mcdisgusting nuggets that are made out of filler and gristle and think that it is actual chicken! Ugh! I don't know what happened to me that made me so anti-this establishment, but it makes me so mad! Why can't they go to Paradise Bakery and get a little PB&J sandwich? I'd rather give my baby a slice of bread than those mcnastys.

The day before Thanksgiving

2008-11-26T11:29:00.000-08:00

I know I won't have time to post tomorrow, so I might as well get it done today. Tomorrow is Brannan's second Thanksgiving, and this year he will be able to eat the turkey, the gravy and everything else on the table! Yeeehaw! I don't know why I like this holiday, maybe because I love to eat good food??? I guess so!

I've been shopping for a week now and think I have everything, but then realized I am having friends over for dinner tonight and am going to have to sacrifice a few of our staples for dinner tonight. That's fine though, the more the merrier.

I just with my sister and my parents were going to be here for Thanksgiving. That's ok, though, they are all healthy and happy, just in different parts of the country right now. I had such a great time with my sister in Chicago, I just wish she was here all the time - we have grown so much closer since Brannan's conception. It's kindof crazy.

So, now I have to finish off my Nanaimo dessert bars and make some sort of potato gratin for dinner tonight.

Happy day before Thanksgiving!

My weekend in Chicago...

2008-11-25T09:49:00.000-08:00

This past weekend I went to see my sister in Chicago (without Brannan or Byron, yay! Not that I don’t love them or anything, just needed some time away) and we had a super duper awesome time.

We started out on Friday night at the most awesome oyster house in Chicago called Shaw’s Oyster House. I had 2 oysters (I’m not really into oysters, but my sis loves them) and then we had fish and chips and the most amazing scallops I’ve ever had in my life. They were about the size of Milk Duds and they tasted almost as sweet and they were smothered in butter! On top of all that, we had about 5 pomegranate martinis each and we quickly made friends with our neighbors at the bar. On one side, this super cool gay guy named Adam befriended us and even secured us seats at one of the hottest drag shows in Chicago for the next night. We also set up a date later that night to meet him at one of the hottest gay bars in “Boy’s Town”.

Well, my sister had already secured seats at the show “Wicked” for the night and I was really excited to see it. So, we had to exit the bar after about 3 hours of meeting and greeting everyone there. I was bummed to leave, but was really excited to go and see the show.

And, this show was truly awesome! The singers were so amazing and the sets and the dancers and just the whole scene made it so great! Not to mention, the story was great too! I highly suggest this show for anyone and everyone.

After the show, it was probably about 10pm and we decided that we were spent and couldn’t meet our new friend, Adam, out at the bar because we were so tired, so we headed back home.

The next morning, we had plans to see the city. We started off on the “Magnificent Mile” where all the shopping is and since my sister didn’t have any gloves or a hat, we decided that we needed to hit a little store for some cheapo gloves and a hat. We went to Walgreens (I had to go there anyway for some allergy medicine because her cat was making my allergies go crazy) but she didn’t see anything there that she wanted. So, we walked by Burberry, Coach, Talbots and other spendy shops. I suggested them all, then saw the Gap down the street. I said, “let’s stop in there, they should have something for you” so she said “yeah, that’s cool”.

I’ve never been into a Gap as busy as this one was. They actually had a DJ at the entrance! Madonna was BLARING over the speakers and it was so loud it was almost annoying. So, we wandered the store in search of gloves and a hat and I hit the sale rack in case they had some warmer weather stuff for really cheap and actually found a few items. We met up again and decided to hit the checkout line (which was really, really long) and an employee came up to us and said that the men’s department upstairs had more cash registers and the lines weren’t as long. (And, the bathrooms were up there too).

So we headed upstairs since I had to go there anyway and waited in line. After we paid for our items, the cashiers gave us each a raffle ticket to enter into their raffle. Ok, yeah, whatever, another raffle entry. They said that you could win a $1000 gift card. So, of course, we wrote our names on the back of the tickets and since I had to go to the bathroom, I sent my sister upstairs another flight to drop them into the raffle box. As we met up once again, I said, “man, wouldn’t it be cool to win a $1000 gift card???!???!!!”

So, we go about the rest of our day, see a photography exhibit, go to the top of the Sears Tower, eat an authentic Italian Beef sandwich and an authentic Chicago hot dog, then head on back to her apartment for a few glasses of wine and a nap. It is nearing 5:00 and we have plans to go and see the annual Christmas parade where they light up Michigan Avenue with all of their Christmas lights with a parade and end up walking a ton (hence the blisters on my toes). While we are walking around, though, her phone rang and I said, “hey, maybe it is the Gap letting you know that you won the raffle!” Yeah, ha ha. She said, yeah, ha ha, I’ll check anyway. She checks, it isn’t them, so we watch the parade then go to Frontera Grill for super yummy margaritas and some super yummy appetizers.

We hit another few bars and at about 9:30 we are calling it quits (we started early and we had awesome sister time and spent a LOT of money!) so we head on back to the apartment.

I left my cell phone at the apartment hooked up to the charger since it was losing juice and as we came in, I grabbed it to see if I got any calls, and it said I had 2 new voicemails. Hmm, I freak out for a millisecond wondering if Brannan is ok, and dial into my voicemail.

The next thing I hear is “Hi, this is Julie from the Gap, please give me a call back.”

What the?????

I screamed at my sister – “NO WAY!!!! Do you think I won????”

I don’t even wait for her to answer and listen to the next message: “Hi, this is Jared from the Gap, please give me a call back.”

HOLY CRAP!

I call Jared back immediately and he said I WON!!!!!!

I WON THE GIFT CARD!!!!!! Can you believe it???? ONE THOUSAND DOLLARS at the GAP!

I scream a ton and scare my sister’s neighbors and jump up and down for about 10 minutes.

I felt like I won the lottery! Man, $1000 is going to buy a LOT of clothes at the Gap!

Thank you Gap Gods for shining down on me during this time of recession….

Well, needless to say, I had a BLAST in Chicago!

I LOVE CHICAGO!!!

Now, sis, when are we going to NYC?????

13 Months

2008-10-23T19:51:00.000-07:00

Hi Baby,

Well, now you are 13 Months old. You are getting so big and you are growing at an alarming rate. Well, not like you have a huge head or your legs are totally disproportionate or anything like that, it is just that you are growing so fast, I can't believe it. You actually *know* a lot of the things that I say to you, like "c'mon buggy, let's get out of this room" or "let's get outta here" or "time to go to the gym". It is just crazy how you are understanding us more and more.

We took you on your first cruise a couple of weeks ago. Yes, you were a Concierge Class Baby on Celebrity Cruises. Yes, you got your evening canapes and you got your crib turned down (most of the time)and you ran and ran up and down the buffet floor like there was no tomorrow. You ate lots of watermelon and canteloupe and you even had some of the "Pass-O-Guava" juice that they love to put in the dispensers. You didn't like that so much. Your cousin coerced you into trying smoked salmon, which you surprisingly liked. Even though Mom and Dad don't like it at all. You were very good overall during the vacation - probably because we deprived you of many, many naps.

Now we are home and Daddy is gone on a hunting vacation. He has been gone a long time. Almost 7 days now and it feels like an eternity. He is so good with you when he comes home from work. I was just telling your Grandma that he watches you eat dinner, cleans you up after dinner, takes you on evening walks, does you night bath and then reads you stories and puts you to bed. And that is *every* night! What a Daddy! He is awesome! That leaves me some time to do the dishes or clean up whatever has been going on in the house. But now, that he is on vacation, it is really hard to do. But, he will be home soon and we are looking very forward to it.

Well, now you are in a "big boy" seat in the car. It faces forward and you like it a lot more than your rear-facing carseat. Although you are getting really cranky riding in the car most of the times. I'm not sure why, but I'm NOT giving you a passifier to soothe you. It is against all rules. Sorry buddy.

Anyway, just wanted to catch up and say hi this month. I have to go and get some work done now. Or maybe I just need to relax for like 30 minutes...

Now, officially 1

2008-09-23T14:19:00.000-07:00

Well, we have had a ton of things happening lately. We have been to New Hampshire for a wedding (on your official birthday) then we had relatives in town for your impromptu birthday and then we had a party on this past Sunday. It was pretty fun. We had an afternoon of cake and gifts and some yummy eating. You had lots of fun running around and eating nothing of nutritional value except probably that one cheese stick that I happened to give you while socializing. Well, that's ok, it was your first birthday.

Some friends were kindof bummed that Grandma and Pappy didn't show up for your birthday. Honestly, I was a little bummed too. They claimed that they thing we "saw enough of each other" this past weekend, but you know what, I don't think that grandparents can ever see enough of their grandbabies. I know, one day, when you have kiddos of your own, I will want to babysit all the time and try to help your wife with all of her baby question (but will try not to be the nasty MIL). Anyway, I digress and am getting way too ahead of myself. You are only 1! You better not be thinking of having any babies anytime soon! You little rascal.

You are a little rascal. You have resorted to throwing things over the baby gate that we have installed between our living room and our kitchen/dining room area. I know you need attention when you start chucking things over that gate. It is kinda funny and neat to watch you develop this way. You have learned that you can get our attention by throwing bricks of Legos onto the Saltillo tile floor. You really just want to walk around with us in the kitchen area while we are making you a snack or making you dinner or going through our mail. But, baby, sometimes that isn't always possible. Sometimes you need to be corraled up in that area so you don't play in the dog water dishes. Sometimes you don't need to be eating the leftovers you threw on the floor at breakfast. But, mainly, we just want you to be safe. Sorry, child!

I love being home with you all day and taking you out on our little errands. It is the best thing that has ever happened to me. You are my little Secret. One day I will tell you about this little Secret, although it is quite popular in our culture these days. You know, I kindof think of this little diary as a time capsule for you. I hope one day you will read this and know how much I love you. How scared I was at first with you and how my love for you grew and grew into something that is immeasurable.

I can only hope that you will realize this one day.

Love,
your mom

11 months, 3 weeks old

2008-09-01T14:54:00.000-07:00

Your birthday is coming up. In fact it is in less than 12 days. I can't believe that it has been almost a whole year since you came into my life. I have been having the best time with you lately, although it has been quite hectic. We went back East to visit relatives a couple of weekends ago and since Daddy didn't come with us, it was fun navigating the airport, the security screening and the flight all by ourselves. Even though we got to fly first-class on our way home, you didn't seem to want to sit for 4 hours in a seat. That's ok though, we made it through just fine and you weren't the screaming baby on the plane that everyone secretly despises.

We are going on another trip on the weekend of your birthday, although it isn't to celebrate your birthday. We are going to a wedding (back East yet again) but this time Daddy and our best friends will all be on the flight with us so they can help if you get restless.

You have been walking a lot lately and even have been getting the courage to leave the couch to walk to one of us on your own. It is really neat to watch you do this. We are really working on your swimming abilities. We are going to sign you up to take the next class at the local pool. It is fun to do this with you too. You are turning into a little toddler slowly but surely. We have even been weening you from your pacifier. It isn't hard to do because you are so agreeable and such a good baby, but every now and then you need that soothing. That's ok by me. Daddy has been doing a wonderful job of sending you to bed for the night without one though. I guess I'm a little softer and send you to naps with it. You are getting to be a big boy though and soon you won't need them. Perhaps we should store them away for your next brother or sister.

Otherwise, we are preparing for your birthday. We will most likely have a little party at Grandma and Pappy's house the weekend after we come back from our trip. We'll let you smash your hands into the cake and do all that fun stuff. I'm excited to get you some new toys too!

We have so many things planned for the end of 2008. I'm sure it will be eventful and fun for you and our whole little family.

Happy birthday little buddy!

Oh BOY!

2008-07-29T16:30:00.000-07:00

Oh Boy, I am so sorry that I have not written in so long. You have been such an amazing creature that I don't even want to be on the computer. And, even if I am on the computer, I really do have to do work, so I usually limit the time. Anyway, you have been doing so much lately. It seem like I haven't written since you were 7 months old. So sorry!!! Anyway, now you are 10 months old and you are a crazy little baby! You have 4 teeth and 2 more coming in, you can crawl everywhere and you totally love to crawl on the Saltillo tile that we have all over the house. You are eating everything on your own now, and you really don't like us to feed you anymore. It is like you are just totally your own person now. I can't even believe it. I really wanted this space to show your progressions, but it seems that I have been so involved with you every day (and all the free time I do have is done working so I don't want to waste it on the computer).

Anyway, you are so awesome. We went on our first swim lesson last night. We sang fun songs like "motorboat motorboat" and stuff like that. You put your head right in the water like you usually do. You are fearless. And totally cute. And adorable. And the best thing that ever happened to me!

My utensil

2008-07-03T13:03:00.000-07:00

You Are a Fork

You are truthful, direct, and straight forward.
People find your honesty to be a bit piercing at times.

You are driven and wildly ambitious.
You know what you want, and you take the most direct path to getting it.

=http://www.blogthings.com/whatutensilareyouquiz/">What Utensil Are You?

A mini-vacation

2008-05-20T09:47:00.000-07:00

We just got back from a fun family trip to Big Bear, CA. It was great. We rented a nice "cabin" in town with a bunch of other people. My man went mountian biking all weekend and I hung out with the baby and looked around town, took him to the lake, had him dip his toes in (it was really cold and he pulled his feet up immediately), we took him to "The Village" and listened to some really bad karaoke. I really enjoyed the weather, it was perfect. I would've slept with the windows open all night if we didn't have the baby in the room with us. It was about 75 degrees outside every day and just chilly enough to wear a jacket at night. Just perfect.

Then, we had to drive home. We had to drive back to this hot, hot city. Driving through the desert between Big Bear and Phoenix, we saw the temperature register on our dashboard at 112 degrees. I can't stand this heat. I can't wait to get out of this town. I'm so ready.

But, the trip was fantastic. It was the first long drive for the baby, and he did just great for most of the trip, but the last hour was a little tough for him. He didn't like being strapped into his car seat for 6 hours at a time. But, he is going to have to learn to like it because we spend a lot of time in the car trying to get out of the city and go somewhere more bearable.

During our trip, we did a lot of playing and the baby is getting so ready to crawl. He is pulling himself up on to his knees and lunging forward towards things, it is so great! We shared the "cabin" with 6 other adults and no children, and *everyone* said that they were so impressed because he is such a great baby and no one heard him cry the whole entire weekend. Well, he did cry once, but that was because Daddy was using the bulb on his stuffed-up nose. I was elated to hear other people praise the baby and us. They were saying that the baby's behavior was a reflection of Mommy and Daddy. Kind words from kind people. It was nice. Also, one of the women there just learned that she is preggos. She is only 6 weeks along, but I was so excited for her, I even brought her a gift. Her first gift of the pregnancy. I hope it goes very well for her, she and her man are very special people.

This weekend is Memorial Day. I'm not sure what we are going to do yet. It depends on if the husband has to work or not. I hope he doesn't have to work and we can go camping and do something fun.

I'm off to download pictures from the weekend now.

Slacking

2008-04-28T10:11:00.001-07:00

I have been so bad about keeping up with this blogging lately. I really wanted to do more, to document more, but it seems that when the baby is napping, I'm trying to get work done. I really have had no time to poke around on the internet like I used to. It's kindof crazy. But, I should make it a part of my every day so I can remember just what is happening these days.

First, baby's bottom two teeth have popped out! I can't believe it. I have told so many girlfriends how I am going to miss his "gummy" smile. It was sooo dang cute. But, these little teeth are cute too, and it's just another stage in life that I'm going to have to get used to.

We've stopped swaddling him during naps and at night. He has responded very well to this, but he manages to wedge himself up in the corner of his crib all the time, it is pretty funny.

He has gotten super good at rolling over from back to tummy and tummy to back. We're still waiting for the signs of crawling though. None yet.

He is super smiley and is overall a good baby. He's eating lots of people food like butternut squash, acorn squash, zuchinni, yellow squash, pears, apples, and even Grandma's meatballs! Oh, and he had some rice on Friday night too. He seemed to like that.

His Auntie came to visit this past weekend. She had fun with him and she played with him a lot, it was cool to see. I hope he has a really good bond with her, unlike the bonds with relatives I have. I don't really have bonds with my relatives, so I really hope that his life is a little different. I don't regret it, we have tons of wonderful friends, but we moved away from our relatives when we were very small, so we didn't have a lot of contact with them. So, our way of solving this problem is to call everyone "auntie" and "uncle". That's way cool with me! Some real uncles I'd rather not introduce him to anyway...

I came down with more of my diverticulitis this weekend. That just reminds me that I need to do more research on it. It is a terrible pain, but the good thing about it is that I don't want to eat so I lost like 4 lbs this weekend! Sweet!

That's what's been going on. Oh, did I mention that I LOVE my job??? I do...

7 Months Old

2008-04-10T07:58:00.000-07:00

I just got through my two email accounts and I received about 10 notifications that my baby is 7 months old now. Today. Today is the day, 7 months ago, that we drove to the hospital to be induced. 7 months ago, we sat in a very nice birthing room, watching my favorite movie, Anchorman, laughing and waiting. I remember being so hungry and all I could think about was a sandwich from The Picnic Company, one of my favorite little shops in that area. But then I remember all the horror stories that I read about people throwing up because of the pain, or more horrifying, pooping while you are pushing. So, I pushed my sandwich thoughts aside for thoughts about the big moment when my baby would arrive.

So, we waited and waited. It was a long day. Although it would all be over at 6:35 PM. That's when he would arrive. But, around 3 PM I could tell that my husband was getting restless. I told him to go out and do something. He doesn't like to sit around and watch tv. I dozed in and out of sleep because I got my epidural about noon. It was awesome. Of course, people would come in and out of the room, give me the obligatory check (i've never had so many pelvic exams in one day ever), and check my monitors. The baby didn't want to show up on the monitor, so I had to keep shifting positions and shifting the monitors.

After months of waiting and reading about delivery, it was here! I was scared and nervous and elated and really scared.

7 months ago today was one of the best days of my life.

7 months ago today my baby came into the world.

Canned

2008-04-07T08:31:00.000-07:00

So, I got fired on Friday. It was totally unexpected. I'm 33 years old and have never been fired before in my life. But, the craziest thing about it - I wasn't sad! I have been sortof secretly hoping that I'd get fired. I was hoping for an awesome severance package, and the weight to be cut free from around my neck that was sinking me deeper and deeper into the ocean of boredom. But, it happened, and I was pretty happy about it. Supposedly I have been given another option about working from home. I'm really excited about that. Even though I'll still be associated with the company, at least I don't have to go into the office and face people I really don't like to do. I'm supposed to be getting a formal contract at some point today.

The coolest thing?

I get to be with my baby ALL THE TIME!!!

The saddest thing?

I really am going to miss the girls at daycare. I'm going to go visit them today and to thank them for everything.

Gettin' wiggy with it

2008-04-04T14:02:00.000-07:00

So, a co-worker just came by my desk and we were chatting about nothing really when she told me a story about a girlfriend of hers who had a whole room devoted to her wigs. Wow! Wigs? I decided that I need to start a collection of wigs. They are probably expensive though. No matter! How fun would it be to go out and just be someone different for a couple of hours? Even if it is to dinner with the husband and the baby! What if I went to a company dinner with a fancy wig? That'd be fun!

Yay me!

2008-04-03T09:41:00.000-07:00

I'm really proud of myself. Yesterday I stood up for what I really wanted. I told this person how I felt and how I wanted things to be. I'm not sure if I am going to get my way, but at least I did it! I usually let people walk all over me and say "yes, ok" to everything that comes my way (at least I do at work). But you know what, yesterday I said I wasn't happy with the decisions that were being made about me. I said that I was going to feel confined and basically not good if things went the way that others wanted them to be. I hope it really turns out good for me.

But, in the meantime, I have to go to a dentist appointment tonight and get a crown put on my tooth! Ick. I'm not afraid of the dentist or anything, it's really just a pain to have to do. It takes time out of my life and I'd rather just be hanging out with my baby. Yanno?

Otherwise, my MIL is in town for the week. It has been fairly drama-free. Although she has her share of drama at home. I am trying to help her with her drama but, it is hard to do because I don't know all the facts. Whatever - I think my HB doesn't even want to deal with it. But, really, my only motivation to help her out is because I don't want her knocking on my door in ten years when she is totally penniless and sick and in hospice or something and we'll have to help her. Well, I guess she wouldn't be knocking on my door if she was in hospice, but you get my drift.

It's just terrible to watch someone being taken advantage of and you can't do a thing about it. I often wonder how she gets through life. There are so many things that she doesn't even know, like what a "flauta" is, or what brand of tequila is good and what brand is bad.

She just called me and said "Brannan ate my whole banana!" How cute. He's getting so big now and eating all sorts of people food. I'm going to go out and get him some O's this weekend.

I need to get back to work, lots to do today. And, I'm in a good mood because I'm so happy for myself! But then I just remembered my dentist appointment. Ugh. That's ok though!

Wake up

2008-03-28T16:07:00.000-07:00

This morning Squeaks busted out of his swaddler. Well, really only one arm, but he wasn't wearing any PJ's because it is getting quite warm at night now, so his little arm was sticking out and his belly was exposed. So, it was still pretty early, like 5am, and so I un-velcroed his swaddler and wrapped it around his belly to let his arms go free. He doesn't sleep very well without being swaddled, and I was already wide awake, so I thought i'd try it out for an hour. Well, he promptly did some stretches , rubbed his little eyes and then put his arms over his head like he was signaling a field goal. He slept like this for another hour and a half. It was so dang cute that I had to stand there for at least 5 minutes, laughing in my head, before I turned on his little light to wake him up for the day.

Too long

2008-03-24T10:03:00.000-07:00

Ok, I haven't been able to vent in such a long time! I've been so super busy, it's just been crazy. But, that's a likely excuse, right? Well, let's just start if off with last weekend, where I was in the hospital all weekend long! What a crappy weekend that was. First, I had to miss the annual St. Patrick's Day party at our friends house. This is the 2nd one I've missed because the year before, I was preggo and I couldn't drink! boo hoo. Anyway, I came down with a nasty case of diverticulitis and went ahead and perforated my intestine. My left side of my abdomen was really hurting that whole week and I decided I needed to go to the doctor on Friday. Well, they wouldn't even see me in their office, they said "do not pass Go, go directly to the ER." I figured they'd give me a prescription for some antibiotics and send me on my way. But, by about 7pm, they decided that I needed to be admitted, unfortunately. So, I spent my whole weekend in the hospital. It blew.

I missed Monday at work because I still wasn't feeling up to par by then, so I used a sick day. But, I finally recovered and went back to work.

This past weekend was super crazy, although it didn't involve any hospitals, thank goodness. We went up to the cabin on Friday night and then went to a party at Rick and Nancy's on Saturday. It was fun, but a bit strange. I got sucked in to the family dramas, which was fun, but I'm sure glad none of that stuff happens to us. Then, there was a landslide that covered our quickest route home, so it ended up taking us 3 hours to get home instead of the usual 1 hour. I was pissed off because I had to drive and couldn't drink. And, my man wanted to keep staying later and later and later. Finally I just had to put my foot down and tell him we were leaving. Ugh. So, then we finally got home (at 2:30AM!!!) went straight to bed and were awakened at 6AM by Squeaks. Of course. Then, I had so much to do, I had to cook side dishes and pound cake and go to the grocery store, it was just nutty.

Anyway, it's Monday again, and the start to a new week. The MIL is due to come in on Saturday. another ugh. Hopefully those days will fly by too. I have no idea what we are going to do with her. I hope she doesn't want to watch the baby, but I'm leaving all those details up to Byron. Maybe she'll just want to hang out in the backyard and tan. She likes to do that a lot. But, more later...

Wish I was here - WW

2008-03-19T11:44:00.000-07:00

Shots

2008-03-12T08:40:00.001-07:00

Yesterday our little bugger had his 6 month checkup. The poor thing had to have 4 shots (2 in each leg) and one oral dose of something. He was super tired after the ordeal and I was too because it took over 2 hours to get out of the stupid office! I couldn't believe it. Plus, the nurses were quite dumb. I had to show her how to tare out the stupid scale. Whatever - it was a nightmare. But, when I got home, daddy had to take a nap because he worked the overnight shift last night, so I was watching him, but the little guy just kept whining all night. He went to bed super early and I knew that he would wake up in the middle of the night wanting a bottle because he didn't eat anything before bed. Well, he is feeling better today, so that's good.

This past weekend we took the little guy sledding. It was fun. I'm not sure he had too much fun, but we just needed to get out of the house for a little bit. We then dropped in on some friends who live in Payson, and it ended up being a late day. They are really fun to hang out with and they have done so many improvements on their house, they had to show us everything!

Anyway, here we are sledding. Oh, and of course, I forgot it is WW...