Our baby girl was born June 18, 2010. Yes,ExACTLY 7 years to the day from when grace was born. Two girls, 7 years apart. I love it.
She is 3 months old today and we're so in love. She's a beautiful, sweet, happy baby and our whole family adores her.
That's my quick update. :) Perhaps I can get back into blogging now that we've got a decent routine going with Juliette!
Friday, September 10, 2010
Thursday, May 6, 2010
6 weeks to go!
6 weeks until we meet #3! How exciting! I keep dreaming about birthing. EVERY night for the past week I wake up around 3:30am thinking about the baby.
I'm using the Hypnobabies curriculum, hoping to ensure a medication-free birth for our baby. It's very relaxing and the visualization is great. I'm on week 3 of 6 and am finding it helpful to relax in every day life.
The OB's office has convinced me to have an ultrasound at 36 weeks to determine how big she might be. I know it's not certain (the ultrasound with AJ was off by 1.5 pounds!) and big babies don't scare me. I think they scare my doctors, though. I told them, "It's not like I'm birthing a beach ball. My children are long and skinny, and I'll stretch. Plus babies' heads and shoulders do comress through the pelvis. I'm not planning on an epidural, so I won't be lying on my back, which is the worst position to birth in." I don't know if the OB believed me. He told me, "In some cases ignorance is bliss. But you need to make an informed decision in this case."
And I responded, "I know knowledge is power! But it really makes NO difference to me."
And the Ob ended up mentioning that my measurements have stabilized and I'm not quite as big percentage wise as I have been, so this might actually turn out in my favor. I ultimately consented. I hope I don't regret it. I told him that even if the "measurement" looks big, once I say I'm not having a c/s, I don't want to be pressured about it. He agreed. We'll see how it pans out.
But it's MY choice. Not his. I told him I'd do the ultrasound but I don't want to be pressured into a cesarean section. It's my body. My child. And I have the right to make an informed choice, regardless of protocol, procedure, or someone else's fear of a lawsuit.
I keep dreaming about midwives, but it's a little late in the game to switch providers. Not to mention that insurance doesn't support midwives as generously as they do OBs. Even though a midwife charges less, we would have to pay MORE. Doesn't that suck?????
We're still trying to convert our office into a nursery. I need to get moving on that, because something tells me I might not have the full 6 weeks left! Yikes!
In other news, the dog is walking around with her leash. Think she's trying to tell me something?
I'm using the Hypnobabies curriculum, hoping to ensure a medication-free birth for our baby. It's very relaxing and the visualization is great. I'm on week 3 of 6 and am finding it helpful to relax in every day life.
The OB's office has convinced me to have an ultrasound at 36 weeks to determine how big she might be. I know it's not certain (the ultrasound with AJ was off by 1.5 pounds!) and big babies don't scare me. I think they scare my doctors, though. I told them, "It's not like I'm birthing a beach ball. My children are long and skinny, and I'll stretch. Plus babies' heads and shoulders do comress through the pelvis. I'm not planning on an epidural, so I won't be lying on my back, which is the worst position to birth in." I don't know if the OB believed me. He told me, "In some cases ignorance is bliss. But you need to make an informed decision in this case."
And I responded, "I know knowledge is power! But it really makes NO difference to me."
And the Ob ended up mentioning that my measurements have stabilized and I'm not quite as big percentage wise as I have been, so this might actually turn out in my favor. I ultimately consented. I hope I don't regret it. I told him that even if the "measurement" looks big, once I say I'm not having a c/s, I don't want to be pressured about it. He agreed. We'll see how it pans out.
But it's MY choice. Not his. I told him I'd do the ultrasound but I don't want to be pressured into a cesarean section. It's my body. My child. And I have the right to make an informed choice, regardless of protocol, procedure, or someone else's fear of a lawsuit.
I keep dreaming about midwives, but it's a little late in the game to switch providers. Not to mention that insurance doesn't support midwives as generously as they do OBs. Even though a midwife charges less, we would have to pay MORE. Doesn't that suck?????
We're still trying to convert our office into a nursery. I need to get moving on that, because something tells me I might not have the full 6 weeks left! Yikes!
In other news, the dog is walking around with her leash. Think she's trying to tell me something?
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Free Cone Day
Ben and Jerry's annual Free Cone Day is upon us. Grace asked, "So, they give us the cone and we pay for the icecream?" NOT a bad idea for the company, but the customers would probably be disgruntled, eh?
In other news, Grace has started to learn piano. I'm very proud of her. She practices very consistently, and it's so fun to listen to her. Until Old MacDonald starts to play in my head even when she's not practicing!!! It's really a joy to see my daughter start to pick up my love of music and piano. And satisfying to know that I have the talent and training to teach her rather than pay for piano lessons.
AJ is doing well in preschool. His teacher is very pleased with his progress. We're meeting with the occupational therapists with the school board this week to evaluate his gross motor skills as well as sensory issues. We've been waiting for this appointment since NOVEMBER. I hope it leads to something fruitful for him.
Terry's traveling again, in Utah for 10 days this time. I've developed a very strict routine with my children and it is working wonders. Their behavior has been stellar for the most part. I'm seeing them helping more, squabbling less. I've learned not to stress myself out over their happenings and utilize timeout more. Time out really benefits ME as well as them. And bedtime has been seamless. 7:00pm is lights out for AJ, Grace is in bed with a book by 7:15, and usually both are asleep before 7:45. That gives me a peaceful, relaxing evening and helps me recharge for the next day.
In other news, Grace has started to learn piano. I'm very proud of her. She practices very consistently, and it's so fun to listen to her. Until Old MacDonald starts to play in my head even when she's not practicing!!! It's really a joy to see my daughter start to pick up my love of music and piano. And satisfying to know that I have the talent and training to teach her rather than pay for piano lessons.
AJ is doing well in preschool. His teacher is very pleased with his progress. We're meeting with the occupational therapists with the school board this week to evaluate his gross motor skills as well as sensory issues. We've been waiting for this appointment since NOVEMBER. I hope it leads to something fruitful for him.
Terry's traveling again, in Utah for 10 days this time. I've developed a very strict routine with my children and it is working wonders. Their behavior has been stellar for the most part. I'm seeing them helping more, squabbling less. I've learned not to stress myself out over their happenings and utilize timeout more. Time out really benefits ME as well as them. And bedtime has been seamless. 7:00pm is lights out for AJ, Grace is in bed with a book by 7:15, and usually both are asleep before 7:45. That gives me a peaceful, relaxing evening and helps me recharge for the next day.
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Growing. . . and shrinking.
The scale has dropped another 3 pounds. Which brings my total weight loss to 30 pounds. Yikes! So fun to eat low fat while PREGNANT. YOU try managing cravings for chocolate covered potato chips from Grimaldi's with poor substitutions, such as pretzels and Gatorade and strawberries! It will be so worth it in the end, though, to know that our baby is healthy in part because I was careful.
In other news, our little girl is kicking away. Grace and Terry have both felt her, which is such a neat part of pregnancy. And she has currently lodged the whole pound of herself in a ball just under my ribcage. I'm not sure why, or how she is defeating gravity right now, but I really wish she'd set up camp in an area with a LITTLE more space. So that I could lean forward.
We're on our 4th consecutive week of Terry traveling for work. I miss him. I miss the respite he provides when he comes home every day. The one sucky thing about homeschooling is that there is NEVER a break. Unless I go to the gym. And believe me, I'm using my full 2 hours of childcare every day that he is gone. He spent 3 weeks in Utah, came home for the weekend, then jet-set off to Alabama for NASA meetings. And just as I suspected, he anticipates more travel to Utah in about 2 weeks and another trip to Alabama.
I looked into cruises, thinking that would be a fun family vacation before the baby comes. And something to look forward to while my husband is away. It turns out that you can't travel on ANY cruise ship if you're more than 23-24 weeks pregnant. Except for Viking cruises, which doesn't have any local travel. Bummer. I briefly considered not telling them I'm pregnant, but decided it wasn't worth the risk of preterm labor, gallstone problems, or food poisoning. Or SARS or Swine Flu or whatever the next pandemic will be.
So then I was thinking North Carolina. But I don't know that white water rafting is really the best choice for a pregnant woman. And hiking in the snow, great for those of us super fit, used to mountains, and in shape, again might just suck for the pregnant lady. Which brings me to the Florida Keys. Now THAT rings my bell. Pool, beach, a dolphin or whale tour, maybe some snorkeling. . . . mmmmmmm. I wonder if they make virgin rumrunners??????
Now that we found out Terry has another week in Utah coming up, he thinks the kids and I should go up there. Spend vacation money on plane tickets and enjoy the nice hotel room paid for by his company. It would be fun to see our friends again. And Terry could take the kids snowskiing for the first time while I take pictures and drink hot chocolate in the lodge. But it will be cold. Probably snowy. I won't come home tanned and relaxed. (Who would be relaxed after an 8 hour flight with 2 young children?)
I can't decide it it's worth it to go and have adult company, help with my children, enjoy seeing our friends and our church. . . . or suck it up, again, and hold out for MY vacation.
We do have Disney passes Mon-Fri, and I suppose I could take the kids and spend the night at Mom and Dad's and then go to Disney for a few days. AJ has preschool Monday, Wed, Friday, Grace has American Heritage Girls Tuesday, Tap dance and church Wednesday, Hip Hop Thursday, and Dance Company on Saturdays. So we'd have to give up some of our regularly scheduled activities to do that. Perhaps leaving Thurs. pm for Orlando and letting AJ miss preschool on a Friday. . . .
In other news, our little girl is kicking away. Grace and Terry have both felt her, which is such a neat part of pregnancy. And she has currently lodged the whole pound of herself in a ball just under my ribcage. I'm not sure why, or how she is defeating gravity right now, but I really wish she'd set up camp in an area with a LITTLE more space. So that I could lean forward.
We're on our 4th consecutive week of Terry traveling for work. I miss him. I miss the respite he provides when he comes home every day. The one sucky thing about homeschooling is that there is NEVER a break. Unless I go to the gym. And believe me, I'm using my full 2 hours of childcare every day that he is gone. He spent 3 weeks in Utah, came home for the weekend, then jet-set off to Alabama for NASA meetings. And just as I suspected, he anticipates more travel to Utah in about 2 weeks and another trip to Alabama.
I looked into cruises, thinking that would be a fun family vacation before the baby comes. And something to look forward to while my husband is away. It turns out that you can't travel on ANY cruise ship if you're more than 23-24 weeks pregnant. Except for Viking cruises, which doesn't have any local travel. Bummer. I briefly considered not telling them I'm pregnant, but decided it wasn't worth the risk of preterm labor, gallstone problems, or food poisoning. Or SARS or Swine Flu or whatever the next pandemic will be.
So then I was thinking North Carolina. But I don't know that white water rafting is really the best choice for a pregnant woman. And hiking in the snow, great for those of us super fit, used to mountains, and in shape, again might just suck for the pregnant lady. Which brings me to the Florida Keys. Now THAT rings my bell. Pool, beach, a dolphin or whale tour, maybe some snorkeling. . . . mmmmmmm. I wonder if they make virgin rumrunners??????
Now that we found out Terry has another week in Utah coming up, he thinks the kids and I should go up there. Spend vacation money on plane tickets and enjoy the nice hotel room paid for by his company. It would be fun to see our friends again. And Terry could take the kids snowskiing for the first time while I take pictures and drink hot chocolate in the lodge. But it will be cold. Probably snowy. I won't come home tanned and relaxed. (Who would be relaxed after an 8 hour flight with 2 young children?)
I can't decide it it's worth it to go and have adult company, help with my children, enjoy seeing our friends and our church. . . . or suck it up, again, and hold out for MY vacation.
We do have Disney passes Mon-Fri, and I suppose I could take the kids and spend the night at Mom and Dad's and then go to Disney for a few days. AJ has preschool Monday, Wed, Friday, Grace has American Heritage Girls Tuesday, Tap dance and church Wednesday, Hip Hop Thursday, and Dance Company on Saturdays. So we'd have to give up some of our regularly scheduled activities to do that. Perhaps leaving Thurs. pm for Orlando and letting AJ miss preschool on a Friday. . . .
Monday, January 11, 2010
Just wait and see. . .
This is where I plan to go. After our baby is born and after I take the Miller Analogy Test! :)
Gold rings in pigs snouts'
"Like a gold ring in a pig's snout is a beautiful woman without sense." Proverbs 11
For my daily devotions this month, I'm reading a proverb a day. This verse really jumped out at me this morning. It's made me contemplate beauty and the way our culture pursues youth and beauty obsessively. I am amazed at the high cost of going to salons, plastic surgeries, expensive hair and makeup products, teeth whiteners, wearing the latest styles. As a stay at home mom, I've been convicted that I do not need to buy new clothes constantly. There is nothing inherently wrong with having nice, classic clothes. This is coming from the girl who is proud of her Platinum Lane Bryant credit card. :) But I've pulled out my 7-year old maternity jeans, and they're still in pretty decent condition. I've bought some basic plain tees and am committed to not breaking our budget on 6 months of fashion here.
And yes, I'm going to the salon for a hair cut and highlights. It will feel so good every time I look in the mirror. It's worth it. I haven't had a haircut since Terry treated me to an upscale salon in Vegas 18 months ago! I'm so excited!
But I am cautioned that all this beauty without sense or discretion is pointless. I certainly don't want to be compared to a gold ring in a pig's snout. Terry and I have signed up for a class at church that we're really excited about next month. We're involved in a new small group from church. I'm trying to grow in wisdom and learn from my own, and others', mistakes. Our Utah pastor said that knowledge is learning from one's own mistakes, while wisdom is learning from someone else's. I really like that. I want to ask the experts for help and not just rely on what feels right or what I think we should do. I want godly wisdom, not worldly information. I want to see the big picture and how we fit and where we're going and see how far we've come.
I hope that I can better my family because of my actions. And I want to have an eminently useful and productive life--not just a vain, self-seeking moment to moment existence, like so many women pursue. That is my prayer.
For my daily devotions this month, I'm reading a proverb a day. This verse really jumped out at me this morning. It's made me contemplate beauty and the way our culture pursues youth and beauty obsessively. I am amazed at the high cost of going to salons, plastic surgeries, expensive hair and makeup products, teeth whiteners, wearing the latest styles. As a stay at home mom, I've been convicted that I do not need to buy new clothes constantly. There is nothing inherently wrong with having nice, classic clothes. This is coming from the girl who is proud of her Platinum Lane Bryant credit card. :) But I've pulled out my 7-year old maternity jeans, and they're still in pretty decent condition. I've bought some basic plain tees and am committed to not breaking our budget on 6 months of fashion here.
And yes, I'm going to the salon for a hair cut and highlights. It will feel so good every time I look in the mirror. It's worth it. I haven't had a haircut since Terry treated me to an upscale salon in Vegas 18 months ago! I'm so excited!
But I am cautioned that all this beauty without sense or discretion is pointless. I certainly don't want to be compared to a gold ring in a pig's snout. Terry and I have signed up for a class at church that we're really excited about next month. We're involved in a new small group from church. I'm trying to grow in wisdom and learn from my own, and others', mistakes. Our Utah pastor said that knowledge is learning from one's own mistakes, while wisdom is learning from someone else's. I really like that. I want to ask the experts for help and not just rely on what feels right or what I think we should do. I want godly wisdom, not worldly information. I want to see the big picture and how we fit and where we're going and see how far we've come.
I hope that I can better my family because of my actions. And I want to have an eminently useful and productive life--not just a vain, self-seeking moment to moment existence, like so many women pursue. That is my prayer.
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
I haven't had much to say recently. Christmas was quiet, and nice. Grace and I are getting through homeschooling. All of a sudden, she's being difficult and I'm moodier than usual. This, too, will pass. Quickly, I hope. She can be so fun, and then completely cop an attitude and push exactly the buttons to completely piss me off! Tonight, we had to unscrew her bright overhead lightbulb (we left on several night lights, because we're not cruel) and had to lock her door to get her to stay in bed. We've only had to do that once before. It sucks. We'll unlock it when we go to bed. This is what the psychologist we consulted last year recommended with regards to bedtime and Gracie. (no, that's not why we visited the child psychologist, but that will take a LONG time to explain!)
AJ, on the other hand, has morphed into my little darling. He's finally matured significantly and I'm enjoying taking him places and hearing him chatter away. He's still sensitive, but in a sweet, kind way. He's obedient, funny, and LOVES HIS MOMMY! The sentiment is mutual, I assure you.
I've managed to lose 28 pounds since discovering my gallbladder full of gallstones. Some of my maternity clothes are hanging off me! But the belly is growing. . .
And in other news, THREE of my friends are choosing to get divorced this year. Which breaks my heart, because I do not believe that God's plan is for people to give up when it gets difficult. Marriage is HARD work. But worth it! "FIGHT FOR YOUR MARRIAGE," I want to scream. But I don't. Because that will help no one. We are so lucky, however, that God does not choose to divorce us, his people, when we make choices that dishonor and grieve Him. Terry commented that even when divorce happens, the married couple still have to communicate constantly about child support, alimony, custody, etc. You're never really free. (he's observed a co worker and her constantly dealing with the ex. . . )
We've thought of some baby names we like for both genders. One name we love but a family member's new baby was recently given a very close name. We might name our child this anyway. Because we have good reasons for it and we love it. So there.
We can narrow the names down on January 22. I'm so looking forward to this day. Ultrasound in the morning, check up just after that, and a HAIR CUT and HIGHLIGHT that afternoon! Talk about the best day EVER! Well, besides the days my children were born. And the day I was married. And. . well. Let's just call it a GREAT day to look forward to!
We'll know! Pink or blue! (Not a huge fan of the small yellow and white selections that are barely available for those who do not know the gender). Then we can select a name! Sort through the baby clothes we've saved! And get a family picture because my hair will LOOK NICE! And blonde again!
AJ, on the other hand, has morphed into my little darling. He's finally matured significantly and I'm enjoying taking him places and hearing him chatter away. He's still sensitive, but in a sweet, kind way. He's obedient, funny, and LOVES HIS MOMMY! The sentiment is mutual, I assure you.
I've managed to lose 28 pounds since discovering my gallbladder full of gallstones. Some of my maternity clothes are hanging off me! But the belly is growing. . .
And in other news, THREE of my friends are choosing to get divorced this year. Which breaks my heart, because I do not believe that God's plan is for people to give up when it gets difficult. Marriage is HARD work. But worth it! "FIGHT FOR YOUR MARRIAGE," I want to scream. But I don't. Because that will help no one. We are so lucky, however, that God does not choose to divorce us, his people, when we make choices that dishonor and grieve Him. Terry commented that even when divorce happens, the married couple still have to communicate constantly about child support, alimony, custody, etc. You're never really free. (he's observed a co worker and her constantly dealing with the ex. . . )
We've thought of some baby names we like for both genders. One name we love but a family member's new baby was recently given a very close name. We might name our child this anyway. Because we have good reasons for it and we love it. So there.
We can narrow the names down on January 22. I'm so looking forward to this day. Ultrasound in the morning, check up just after that, and a HAIR CUT and HIGHLIGHT that afternoon! Talk about the best day EVER! Well, besides the days my children were born. And the day I was married. And. . well. Let's just call it a GREAT day to look forward to!
We'll know! Pink or blue! (Not a huge fan of the small yellow and white selections that are barely available for those who do not know the gender). Then we can select a name! Sort through the baby clothes we've saved! And get a family picture because my hair will LOOK NICE! And blonde again!
Friday, December 4, 2009
Jaws! Da. . . Dum. Da. . .Dum
This article is about an 11 year old who was bitten twice on the foot by a shark. He was near my favorite beach, about 1/2 mile north of Lori Wilson Park. I like to go about 1 mile north of Lori Wilson .. . .. once again, Jaws is playing in my head!
http://www.wftv.com/news/21712044/detail.html
http://www.wftv.com/news/21712044/detail.html
Monday, November 30, 2009
One!
We had our ultrasound today. There is one healthy, active baby swimming around! It was too soon to tell gender, but a relief to know that everything looks normal.
It was fun to watch the baby moving sooo much!!!
And they told me to show up with a full bladder. Turns out that wasn't necessary and in fact just made me super uncomfortable. grrrr. . . .
It was fun to watch the baby moving sooo much!!!
And they told me to show up with a full bladder. Turns out that wasn't necessary and in fact just made me super uncomfortable. grrrr. . . .
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Wednesday
Yesterday I had my first OB appointment. I felt so relieved. I believe the best choice for me with this pregnancy is to be with an OB for care rather than a midwife--close to the hospital and under the care of a medical doctor. It just sat better in my spirit.
I consulted the dr on my nutrition issue. She said I need to eat high calorie, low fat . . .like smoothies and pasta. We are going to see if I lose a significant amount weight within the next month and if so, I will meet with a nutritionist. So fat, I've lost 17 pounds on the scale. Probably more, considering my belly is growing.
Speaking of which. . . . I should be about 10 weeks along. I have the temp chart to prove it! We discussed my due date, came to an agreement (June 18, which happens to be my daughter Grace's birthday!) and then came the exam. The dr. echoed the opinion of the midwife I saw a month ago that I was measuring very large--currently 14 weeks, rather than 10. She said she wouldn't be surprised if we were having TWINS!!! YIKES!
We have an ultrasound scheduled for this Monday afternoon. I don't know if I can wait until then to find out!!!! I suppose I'll have to. . . but boy, has it taken over my thoughts! What if? WOW! And what if NOT? Why on earth am I so big? Is the baby okay? And so on go the thoughts of a pregnant woman.
We've thought of fun names for twins: Romeo and Juliet, Luke and Leila, Holly and Ivy, . . .. and no, we wouldn't REALLY do that to our children!!
In other news, my brother brought over the movie "Up." My hormones are a bit prone to overreaction and I cried like a baby. In the other room so he wouldn't make fun of me. I'm rather tired of movies that are promoted for children and really aren't.
I consulted the dr on my nutrition issue. She said I need to eat high calorie, low fat . . .like smoothies and pasta. We are going to see if I lose a significant amount weight within the next month and if so, I will meet with a nutritionist. So fat, I've lost 17 pounds on the scale. Probably more, considering my belly is growing.
Speaking of which. . . . I should be about 10 weeks along. I have the temp chart to prove it! We discussed my due date, came to an agreement (June 18, which happens to be my daughter Grace's birthday!) and then came the exam. The dr. echoed the opinion of the midwife I saw a month ago that I was measuring very large--currently 14 weeks, rather than 10. She said she wouldn't be surprised if we were having TWINS!!! YIKES!
We have an ultrasound scheduled for this Monday afternoon. I don't know if I can wait until then to find out!!!! I suppose I'll have to. . . but boy, has it taken over my thoughts! What if? WOW! And what if NOT? Why on earth am I so big? Is the baby okay? And so on go the thoughts of a pregnant woman.
We've thought of fun names for twins: Romeo and Juliet, Luke and Leila, Holly and Ivy, . . .. and no, we wouldn't REALLY do that to our children!!
In other news, my brother brought over the movie "Up." My hormones are a bit prone to overreaction and I cried like a baby. In the other room so he wouldn't make fun of me. I'm rather tired of movies that are promoted for children and really aren't.
Happy Thanksgiving!
I had my mom, dad and brother over today. We enjoyed our Thanksgiving meal and I was soooo glad my mom was here! When it came time to prep the turkey, my pregnant body just couldn't handle it. I tried. Really, I did. I made it last year, NO PROBLEM! This morning, I woke my mom up a bit after 8am and requested her presence in the kitchen. She did a great job on the turkey. Meanwhile, I cut herbs in the garden to season the turkey. It got me out of the house, away from the turkey and still useful.
I also handled the sides. :) Sweet potatoes w/apples roasted in the oven (mmm), roasted vegetables that marinated for 2 days, steamed green beans, low fat pumpkin pie, pumpkin apple bread (1 g of fat per slice!), and of course, the turkey. Everyone seemed to enjoy the food and the togetherness, and we weren't soooo stuffed that we all fell asleep afterwards! We conversed and had coffee and played with the kids. It was great!
I also handled the sides. :) Sweet potatoes w/apples roasted in the oven (mmm), roasted vegetables that marinated for 2 days, steamed green beans, low fat pumpkin pie, pumpkin apple bread (1 g of fat per slice!), and of course, the turkey. Everyone seemed to enjoy the food and the togetherness, and we weren't soooo stuffed that we all fell asleep afterwards! We conversed and had coffee and played with the kids. It was great!
Friday, November 20, 2009
Funeral
We spent the week in Brooksville with Terry's family. His uncle passed away on Saturday night, and we went to support Terry's cousin and aunt. I'm glad we did. It was good to be with family, and fun to watch Grace play with the cousins who are in her generation! AJ, too, enjoyed being around all the kids in the family.
I stayed back with the kids during the funeral. It didn't seem appropriate to subject my children to such a cold picture of death. I set out the food and helped hostess, getting drinks for people and meeting the friends of the family who had traveled to pay their respects.
My children have had colds all week, and 4 people sleeping in one hotel room (2 beds, one pallet on the floor) doesn't exactly make for a restful time. I'm glad to be home, in my own bed, tonight.
And I had no gallbladder flare ups. Good news, considering I had to turn down cinnamon rolls at breakfast, bagels with cream cheese, meatballs and my favorite, potato salad. (The good kind, with hardboiled eggs!! MMMM! My one spoonful was sooooo good!) It was worth it, though, to see the scale drop another 2 pounds AND avoid hours of terrible pain.
I stayed back with the kids during the funeral. It didn't seem appropriate to subject my children to such a cold picture of death. I set out the food and helped hostess, getting drinks for people and meeting the friends of the family who had traveled to pay their respects.
My children have had colds all week, and 4 people sleeping in one hotel room (2 beds, one pallet on the floor) doesn't exactly make for a restful time. I'm glad to be home, in my own bed, tonight.
And I had no gallbladder flare ups. Good news, considering I had to turn down cinnamon rolls at breakfast, bagels with cream cheese, meatballs and my favorite, potato salad. (The good kind, with hardboiled eggs!! MMMM! My one spoonful was sooooo good!) It was worth it, though, to see the scale drop another 2 pounds AND avoid hours of terrible pain.
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Surgeon update and Animal Kingdom
I met with the surgeon this week. I was afraid he would try to scare me into having the procedure during my 2nd trimester. He didn't. He said he would NOT do the surgery unless there was severe infection, and even then he would hospitalize me with antibiotics as an alternative method.
He said diet can play a big part in managing this. It's good news that I've been eating consistently low-fat food and have had no gallbladder flare ups.
So my gallbladder definitely needs to come out, but we can hopefully push it off until AFTER the baby is born.
I asked about bile salts and dissolving the stones, but he said that prescription and non-prescription gallbladder cleansers are not worth the money. They're ineffective, don't bother.
We went to Animal Kingdom yesterday. The kids were very well behaved. We went to the Bug's Life 3D movie, despite my misgivings. Sure enough, neither child enjoyed being hit by puffs of air, sprayed with water, or smelling the stinkbug. At one point, the bugs were going to show the humans what it was like to be sprayed with pesticide and I heard Grace cry, "What are they going to DO?" with sheer panic and terror in her voice. That's when we left. After our exit, I looked at Grace. Tears were streaming down her face and she couldn't stop shaking. I don't think Terry will insist we try that show again.
The kids LOVED Finding Nemo: The Musical. It was a very clever use of puppets and actors.
On the bumpy safari ride, AJ fell fast asleep.
It was a good day.
He said diet can play a big part in managing this. It's good news that I've been eating consistently low-fat food and have had no gallbladder flare ups.
So my gallbladder definitely needs to come out, but we can hopefully push it off until AFTER the baby is born.
I asked about bile salts and dissolving the stones, but he said that prescription and non-prescription gallbladder cleansers are not worth the money. They're ineffective, don't bother.
We went to Animal Kingdom yesterday. The kids were very well behaved. We went to the Bug's Life 3D movie, despite my misgivings. Sure enough, neither child enjoyed being hit by puffs of air, sprayed with water, or smelling the stinkbug. At one point, the bugs were going to show the humans what it was like to be sprayed with pesticide and I heard Grace cry, "What are they going to DO?" with sheer panic and terror in her voice. That's when we left. After our exit, I looked at Grace. Tears were streaming down her face and she couldn't stop shaking. I don't think Terry will insist we try that show again.
The kids LOVED Finding Nemo: The Musical. It was a very clever use of puppets and actors.
On the bumpy safari ride, AJ fell fast asleep.
It was a good day.
Monday, November 9, 2009
Missing Post. . .
found it.
I spent this week "hibernating." Not going to the gym, just making it through moment by moment. I isolated myself from everyone. I just needed to process this stupid gallstone issue. As if having a baby isn't momentous enough.
My spirit is better today. It benefitted from being still. I feel more at peace with what comes my way, because I know that God is God. And I am not, to quote a song. And that's okay with me today.
AJ is doing better now, too. I kept him home from school Mon and Wed. because he had quite a cold/cough combo. He went back on Friday and had his best day yet at school. He even left without crying when I picked him up! I was so proud of him. He's also telling people "sorry" when he does or says something inappropriate or hurtful, because, "It's the nice thing to do."
He's opening the van door, shutting it, and strapping himself in ALL By HIMSELF! Dressing himself! Playing nicely with his sister! Playing nicely with the dog!
Using his words instead of crying! Turning 4 seemed to really help him. Perhaps this is what we've been waiting for.
And I've lost 8 pounds since discovering I was pregnant. That's due to exercise. . . and this lovely new low fat diet the gallbladder has put me on.
Thank goodness for Publix's Black Jack Cherry frozen yogurt. And Chick Fil A's grilled chicken sandwich with honey bbq sauce.
I spent this week "hibernating." Not going to the gym, just making it through moment by moment. I isolated myself from everyone. I just needed to process this stupid gallstone issue. As if having a baby isn't momentous enough.
My spirit is better today. It benefitted from being still. I feel more at peace with what comes my way, because I know that God is God. And I am not, to quote a song. And that's okay with me today.
AJ is doing better now, too. I kept him home from school Mon and Wed. because he had quite a cold/cough combo. He went back on Friday and had his best day yet at school. He even left without crying when I picked him up! I was so proud of him. He's also telling people "sorry" when he does or says something inappropriate or hurtful, because, "It's the nice thing to do."
He's opening the van door, shutting it, and strapping himself in ALL By HIMSELF! Dressing himself! Playing nicely with his sister! Playing nicely with the dog!
Using his words instead of crying! Turning 4 seemed to really help him. Perhaps this is what we've been waiting for.
And I've lost 8 pounds since discovering I was pregnant. That's due to exercise. . . and this lovely new low fat diet the gallbladder has put me on.
Thank goodness for Publix's Black Jack Cherry frozen yogurt. And Chick Fil A's grilled chicken sandwich with honey bbq sauce.
Sunday, November 8, 2009
Okay.
Blogger seems to have eaten my last post. I am doing better. I hibernated all week, just getting the bare necessities done and napping a lot.
I feel better today. I went to the gym yesterday and it wore me out, but it was good to move and sweat. It helped my mood significantly. I also weighed myself and have lost 8 lbs on the scale! Wow! (That's over the course of about 8 weeks).
Terry and I will meet with a surgeon on Tuesday to discuss what he recommends. I'd obviously like to avoid surgery if at all possible. Eating low fat seems to help significantly.
We went to Blizzard Beach today. It was windy! The kids liked it until AJ's fingers, toes and lips began turning blue. We had sushi (CA rolls for me with yummy lump blue crab, pineapple and avocado!) and are going to Animal Kingdom tomorrow. We are buying Disney's new FL resident season pass, which will restrict us to the blackout dates of the season pass, and only allow us Mon-Fri. But for a SAHM, and a husband with a great deal of saved up time off, this works. ANd it costs less than 3 normal day tickets. Yay!
I feel better today. I went to the gym yesterday and it wore me out, but it was good to move and sweat. It helped my mood significantly. I also weighed myself and have lost 8 lbs on the scale! Wow! (That's over the course of about 8 weeks).
Terry and I will meet with a surgeon on Tuesday to discuss what he recommends. I'd obviously like to avoid surgery if at all possible. Eating low fat seems to help significantly.
We went to Blizzard Beach today. It was windy! The kids liked it until AJ's fingers, toes and lips began turning blue. We had sushi (CA rolls for me with yummy lump blue crab, pineapple and avocado!) and are going to Animal Kingdom tomorrow. We are buying Disney's new FL resident season pass, which will restrict us to the blackout dates of the season pass, and only allow us Mon-Fri. But for a SAHM, and a husband with a great deal of saved up time off, this works. ANd it costs less than 3 normal day tickets. Yay!
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Rollercoaster of gallstones
I've gone from pure joy to sheer terror this week.
Joy over the baby. . . . and then I ate pizza. 2 slices of veggie pizza, to be exact. This caused terrible pain that lasted for at least 6 hours. I chalked it up to "gas" and moved on.
A week later, we made homemade pepperoni pizza. 8 hours of incredible pain followed. Definitely not gas. I saw my PCP, because the birthing center is an hour away and their OB wouldn't see me for 2 weeks. She scheduled me for an ultrasound.
I did get a peek at the baby as an incidental "perk" of getting to know the tech, who was 36 wks pregnant herself. It was neat to see the little "flicker" that is the baby.
As it turns out, my gallbladder is full of gallstones. I'm supposed to meet with a surgeon soon to review my options. They seem to be:
1. Surgery during the 2nd trimester to remove the gallbladder. Theoretically, this is safer than the first trimester and by the third trimester, the baby is too large to safely go in and remove the gallbladder. I hate to think of how the anesthesia and antibiotics may effect the baby. I mean, I'm trying so hard to have a natural, medication-free labor to protect the baby, and then to just roll in for surgery? Plus, this counts as abdominal surgery and how will that affect my chances of having a natural delivery vs. a c/section?
2. Suck it up? I've only had 2 attacks and I've eaten extremely low fat foods ever since. Nothing like fear of pain to motivate me in a way that Weight Watchers never could. The danger is that pregnancy exacerbates this, and I've heard that by the third trimester, it can get much worse. Besides causing pain, it can turn septic and endanger both me and the baby, causing jaundice, infection, and even meningitis.
3. Cleanse the gallbladder naturally with apples, olive oil and lemon juice. There may be more risk than is worth it, however.
4. Pray for a miracle.
Plus, I just contacted the birthing center again. The midwives will review the gallstones and my record and determine whether it is appropriate for me to continue in their care. Which sucks because I've wanted to deliver a baby there since I first stumbled upon their website over 3 years ago. I do have a wonderful OB, who did a great job with AJ, but the natural setting of The Birth Place really appealed to me. Hospitals tend to make me nervous, and that does not help a woman in labor. I'll have to fight to decline the IV and the electronic monitoring. . . . .anyhow.
I just can't stop freaking out right now. I feel depressed, worried, anxious. . . The Bible says, "Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God."
But at this point, I can't help but worry. I can't help but cry. I feel helpless. If it was just ME, it would not be such a big deal. But this can have such a big impact on this new little person.
Joy over the baby. . . . and then I ate pizza. 2 slices of veggie pizza, to be exact. This caused terrible pain that lasted for at least 6 hours. I chalked it up to "gas" and moved on.
A week later, we made homemade pepperoni pizza. 8 hours of incredible pain followed. Definitely not gas. I saw my PCP, because the birthing center is an hour away and their OB wouldn't see me for 2 weeks. She scheduled me for an ultrasound.
I did get a peek at the baby as an incidental "perk" of getting to know the tech, who was 36 wks pregnant herself. It was neat to see the little "flicker" that is the baby.
As it turns out, my gallbladder is full of gallstones. I'm supposed to meet with a surgeon soon to review my options. They seem to be:
1. Surgery during the 2nd trimester to remove the gallbladder. Theoretically, this is safer than the first trimester and by the third trimester, the baby is too large to safely go in and remove the gallbladder. I hate to think of how the anesthesia and antibiotics may effect the baby. I mean, I'm trying so hard to have a natural, medication-free labor to protect the baby, and then to just roll in for surgery? Plus, this counts as abdominal surgery and how will that affect my chances of having a natural delivery vs. a c/section?
2. Suck it up? I've only had 2 attacks and I've eaten extremely low fat foods ever since. Nothing like fear of pain to motivate me in a way that Weight Watchers never could. The danger is that pregnancy exacerbates this, and I've heard that by the third trimester, it can get much worse. Besides causing pain, it can turn septic and endanger both me and the baby, causing jaundice, infection, and even meningitis.
3. Cleanse the gallbladder naturally with apples, olive oil and lemon juice. There may be more risk than is worth it, however.
4. Pray for a miracle.
Plus, I just contacted the birthing center again. The midwives will review the gallstones and my record and determine whether it is appropriate for me to continue in their care. Which sucks because I've wanted to deliver a baby there since I first stumbled upon their website over 3 years ago. I do have a wonderful OB, who did a great job with AJ, but the natural setting of The Birth Place really appealed to me. Hospitals tend to make me nervous, and that does not help a woman in labor. I'll have to fight to decline the IV and the electronic monitoring. . . . .anyhow.
I just can't stop freaking out right now. I feel depressed, worried, anxious. . . The Bible says, "Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God."
But at this point, I can't help but worry. I can't help but cry. I feel helpless. If it was just ME, it would not be such a big deal. But this can have such a big impact on this new little person.
Monday, October 26, 2009
Whew!
What a weekend!
My brother came over Saturday night after AJ went to bed. AJ woke me at 7 the next morning, climbing into my bed saying, "Mommy. Mommy? MOMMY! Someone is sleeping on our couch! Is it Uncle?"
"Yes, AJ."
"Oh, good! I'll share his blanket!"
Terry is nesting and cleaned out the garage. It looks GREAT. Kyle, my brother, helped a great deal, too. I can walk from one end to the other now.
Grace is working hard on a jazz duet with her best friend, Alexis, for competitions in 2010. This is in addition to the group company competitions. They are dancing to a cute version of "Zip Adee doo dah" which is quite fast-paced and challenging. It's GREAT for them! We've made arrangements for Alexis and her mom to come to our house after our Monday playdates so the girls can practice and then stay for dinner. Lasagna tonight!
Sunday afternoon, I drove Grace up to Sanford for her 2nd cousin Katie's 6th birthday party at a Paint your own Pottery place. It was so fun. Grace had a blast. I saw my cousins, aunt and uncle, and my cousin Chad and his wife Meridith brought their new baby, Lukas. Grace chose a jewelry box with a unicorn on top to paint. Ironically, my sister Kellyn has an identical box. I'm sure Grace painted differently than Kellyn, but I thought it was cool. I also painted--Garden Stakes! We'll see how they turn out!
And my cousins Chris, Chad and I all have identical video cameras. What are the odds? (And I'm not talking cheap, common-denominator-of-society cameras, either!!) We are family!
My brother came over Saturday night after AJ went to bed. AJ woke me at 7 the next morning, climbing into my bed saying, "Mommy. Mommy? MOMMY! Someone is sleeping on our couch! Is it Uncle?"
"Yes, AJ."
"Oh, good! I'll share his blanket!"
Terry is nesting and cleaned out the garage. It looks GREAT. Kyle, my brother, helped a great deal, too. I can walk from one end to the other now.
Grace is working hard on a jazz duet with her best friend, Alexis, for competitions in 2010. This is in addition to the group company competitions. They are dancing to a cute version of "Zip Adee doo dah" which is quite fast-paced and challenging. It's GREAT for them! We've made arrangements for Alexis and her mom to come to our house after our Monday playdates so the girls can practice and then stay for dinner. Lasagna tonight!
Sunday afternoon, I drove Grace up to Sanford for her 2nd cousin Katie's 6th birthday party at a Paint your own Pottery place. It was so fun. Grace had a blast. I saw my cousins, aunt and uncle, and my cousin Chad and his wife Meridith brought their new baby, Lukas. Grace chose a jewelry box with a unicorn on top to paint. Ironically, my sister Kellyn has an identical box. I'm sure Grace painted differently than Kellyn, but I thought it was cool. I also painted--Garden Stakes! We'll see how they turn out!
And my cousins Chris, Chad and I all have identical video cameras. What are the odds? (And I'm not talking cheap, common-denominator-of-society cameras, either!!) We are family!
Friday, October 23, 2009
A new bed!
So we finally got a decent bed. . and King Size, at that!
The problem with having a high-end, awesome, vacation-feeling bed and combining it with a new body pillow and being pregnant is that I just want to stay in it!!!!!!
I'm so tired! And the bed is so comfy! I've been crawling into bed in the afternoon instead of going to the gym! Yikes!
I feel so lazy. . . and decadent. The problem is that I can't play the pregnancy card forever. Sooner or later, Terry is going to get tired of making pregnant concessions for me and I'm going to have to clean the house and make dinner.
The problem with having a high-end, awesome, vacation-feeling bed and combining it with a new body pillow and being pregnant is that I just want to stay in it!!!!!!
I'm so tired! And the bed is so comfy! I've been crawling into bed in the afternoon instead of going to the gym! Yikes!
I feel so lazy. . . and decadent. The problem is that I can't play the pregnancy card forever. Sooner or later, Terry is going to get tired of making pregnant concessions for me and I'm going to have to clean the house and make dinner.
Sunday, October 18, 2009
I said "No!"
I've never said "No" to helping someone or somewhere before. I'm a people pleaser at heart. So last night was Grace's American Heritage Girls (AHG) luau. I was asked to help several days ago and agreed to escort a group of girls from one craft to the next. At the conclusion of the evening (8:35pm), I escorted Grace to the restroom and was waiting in the hallway for her. Our leader walked by and asked if I could help break down the party room. Instead of jumping eagerly up, I remained seated and said, "No, I'm sorry, I can't." I felt a little guilty and a little proud of myself.
The fact is that I was exhausted and had been going all day Saturday. I am dealing with this early-pregnancy fatigue and absolutely could not remain. And I figure that I did help with a large portion of the event. I swept the floor in between crafts, helped 12 girls do 3 crafts, and supervised dinner time. The parents who were coming to pick up their girls could certainly stay and put up some chairs, sweep, put food away or mop.
So I came home, worrying about getting Grace to bed because she was so bouncy and sugar-high, and halfway home I glanced in the rearview mirror and she was FAST asleep. So sleepy, in fact, that she didn't wake when we moved her from our van to her bed. She's still sleeping at 9:20 this morning as I type this.
Anyhow, I emailed our leader notifying her of my new condition and explaining that was why I could not help last night.
I suppose I should find a more graceful way to say "no", but I'm proud that I actually said it!!!
The fact is that I was exhausted and had been going all day Saturday. I am dealing with this early-pregnancy fatigue and absolutely could not remain. And I figure that I did help with a large portion of the event. I swept the floor in between crafts, helped 12 girls do 3 crafts, and supervised dinner time. The parents who were coming to pick up their girls could certainly stay and put up some chairs, sweep, put food away or mop.
So I came home, worrying about getting Grace to bed because she was so bouncy and sugar-high, and halfway home I glanced in the rearview mirror and she was FAST asleep. So sleepy, in fact, that she didn't wake when we moved her from our van to her bed. She's still sleeping at 9:20 this morning as I type this.
Anyhow, I emailed our leader notifying her of my new condition and explaining that was why I could not help last night.
I suppose I should find a more graceful way to say "no", but I'm proud that I actually said it!!!
Friday, October 16, 2009
exercising
This marks week 2 of my new 5-days-a-week at the gym. I am mixing up the exercises and activities, trying to keep it fresh. My hamstrings began aching Wednesday night. I went to yoga on Thursday, and hurt worse after the class! Today I found some stretches to help.
Usually, a trip to the gym leaves me refreshed and energized. Today, I was tired and even tried to rest for a bit around 10:30am! (Don't tell the husband! He thinks I do that EVERY day!) Anyhow, I'm still exhausted and am attributing it to this new little one. Terry joked that I'm always tired, and this gives me a great excuse to lay down, and I agreed. But seriously, I'm yawning away and soooooo ready to go to bed. It's only 10 til 7pm right now. . . I better try to hold up for a little bit!
Usually, a trip to the gym leaves me refreshed and energized. Today, I was tired and even tried to rest for a bit around 10:30am! (Don't tell the husband! He thinks I do that EVERY day!) Anyhow, I'm still exhausted and am attributing it to this new little one. Terry joked that I'm always tired, and this gives me a great excuse to lay down, and I agreed. But seriously, I'm yawning away and soooooo ready to go to bed. It's only 10 til 7pm right now. . . I better try to hold up for a little bit!
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