Some Firsts

Bobby took his first nap in his real crib today. He had previously been sleeping in a portacrib (about 25 x 37) but he'd been scooching up against the sides and sticking limbs through and sometimes even turning perpendicular in it, so it was time to get the man some more real estate. So we brought Grammys crib down from the third floor and it is now in Bobbys room. Cousin Archer is actually using it tonight, but we'll get in there soon.

Also, we took a bath in the real tub tonight! We are not done with the blow up duck bath yet, but he sure does look comfortable in there. He actually started out with Wiley and Archer for about 30 seconds but was soon all alone and seemed to enjoy it. He sat very well and didn't slip around at all. It was even fairly deep.

Duh

Forgot to mention, best Christmas present ever, Rick's unit is leaving Iraq in January!!!

They are the last Marines in Iraq, and they're getting out. Assuming he's on the last plane out, I tell myself February. Also, a lot could change between now and then. What we really don't know is, if he 1. is cut loose altogether, 2. still has to work in California, 3. still has to work in St. Louis, where the unit is from, or 4. has to go to Afghanistan. Some men are going to Afg. but he isn't one of them as far as he knows. Better ramp up the job search. Don't want to be one of the statistics and make him move in with his in laws for too long.

Best present would be him actually coming home, but this is great news compared to May.

More

Continued.... Doctors appt went well, talked about eating and development and such, all seems to be going well. He thought Bobby sat up very well, which he really does, He has excellent body control, he's just a bit lazy and doesn't roll over. I forgot to ask about sleep. It doesn't concern me, but I think it should and I think we can be doing better and I don't want to ingrain habits that will bite me later, but it is what it is.

He said we are okay to eat 3 times a day, eat meat, even more finger foods etc.

We also went to open play time at the little gym with the 11-19 month olds. Bobby had fun, mostly watching but also holding on (in lieu of climbing) and assisted jumping.

Oh yah, he has a really nasty cold. Super serious snot. Very congested and not even a runny nose, it's just all up in his head - if only the poor thing could blow his nose, he'd feel a thousand times better. I just keep hoping for big sneezes. I measured a little fever with it, but at the doctors they said only 98.3. He is a bit irritable but otherwise still happy. We can play normally, but he'll cry a little when I lay him down to change his diaper. Just seems to have a short temper. It sounds so slurpy when he's nursing and he won't let me suction it out, and it doesn't work well enough anyway. And, he really won't even let me wipe the 2 green streams that come from his nostrils. Very irritated when i wipe, same with food after dinner. So we'll see how the night goes, he's down already at 6:30, but I'm sure he'll be up in about 30 minutes. Might bust out the tylenol to give him some relief.

Six Months (and 17 days)

17 pounds, 15 ounces. (50th percentile)

27.75 inches (75%)

44.5" head circumfrence (50%)

4 needles, including H1N1

SNOW

Snow, and sleep. I've pretty much decided not to let him cry it out, It probably does work, but still can't do it. I think every 3 hours is unnecessary, but there's not much I can do about it. Maybe things will change when we get down to 2 naps, but with upcoming travel disruptions, it's not the time now (and he's still young).

It snowed a good bit today, started at 1pm and hasn't stopped, just lightened off and on. It's really wet snow, but has a good accumulation. It's actually really pretty and peaceful. We'll venture out if the sun comes out. Don't know if I'll drive to the gym yet. no rush to get out there with the southern folk.

12/18

It's snowing here!

Last night, Bobby went to bed for good at 7:30pm, then was up at 10:30pm, 1:30am, and 4:30am. At 4:30 it took an hour to get him back down, he was very drowsy but wouldn't go back to sleep all the way. Then he slept from 5:30am to 7am. Any advice out there? Our friends pediatrician just told her to do some sleep training b/c there's no reason she shouldn't be sleeping through the night at 6 months. We'll see what they say on Monday. I am not looking forward to that but I know something should be done as he's getting worse. Now I don't have to go to work or anything, but we'll see. He is also taking very short naps and is still swaddled and nursed to go down. I forsee problems with this down the road, especially when I stop nursing, and he doesn't take a bottle or a pacifier.

He continues to do well at eating. Both feeding himself and eating his mush. Very interested in whatever I eat. So far likes all the veggies plus apples and pears and crackers and a bit of pudding too. Advocado was lunch today. Had some banana at breakfast and we'll try some oatmeal and maybe vegetables for dinner, making this our first three "meal" day.

Happy Baby

I wish you all could be in my bedroom in the morning while we hang out and get ready for the day. Bobby is so chatty and smiley and seems really like he is having fun. He's so charming. When he gets out and about, he's a little more mellow, although today he did really well with strangers while shopping and he is getting used to the crowd at the library and at the girls at the gym. (It seems like all my pictures look the same lately, but it just happens to be where I charge the camera and he's so happy, I want to capture it.)

12/14

Bobby loves to play with drawstring cords, all cords basically - you know, anything he could strangle himself with...

I think I've mentioned it before, but Bobby loves Sophie. He watches her all the time, to the point of distraction. And now that Bobby might have some food around him, Sophie likes him back. And of course, the teething biscuits look like dog treats.

He was up at midnight, 2am and 4am last night.

12/13

Quiet weekend here.

Bobby had a good visit at the gym day care today. No tears. He was rested and well fed and is hopefully getting used to it.

He continues to not really nap though. He went down three times, yes, but for probably 3.5 hours combined. And we've reverted to being held a lot and waking up a lot in the middle of the night. He went down around 8 tonight in the hope to stay asleep a little longer than 5:30am. I didn't keep him up late, he just woke up from a nap at 5:30pm so it was natural.

Christmas shopping is almost all done, presents are wrapped and cards are sent. Still don't have the holiday spirit though and I'm really fighting the urge to bake the cookies that I want to so badly.

December

• We are now eating oatmeal with carrots. delicious.
• Took him to the child care at the gym. They came and got me out of aerobics class after about 40 minutes. He was crying. This wrecked me b/c if your kid never cries, its so hard to see him with wet red eyes. It was probably the tons of toddlers and loudness and crazy colors and tv and whatnot. We're going back nonetheless tomorrow.
• He's a really good baby. Very chill and very happy. Easy to take care of. I'm lucky.
• Soooo excited to see Cooper J.
• Rick is good. Probably a bit bored. Mentioned that it is good that everyday is the same b/c there is no build up to Christmas.
• 6 month check up and vaccines isn't until the 21st
• Thinking about driving up to DC to shop and kill time

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

Update: Holy Crap

So about that last bit. Bobby pooped today and made up for yesterday. All at once, I actually have a picture but think it's improper to post it, it's that bad. Sometimes it leaks out his back along the waistline of the diaper (in a little line) but this went about 5 inches up his back AND then back over and down his bum, about a handful, for lack of a better description. WOW. And getting his filthy shirt off meant his arms and back and pretty much everything else got covered. Pictures upon request (sicko)

Six Months

So big news of the day... Bobby did not poop today. First day ever. He has been down to one big messy poop a day with the introduction of solids, but I didn't give him any yesterday so no poop.

He is doing great. I think I forgot to mention he has cut his first teeth. Two on the bottom. Not enough for a picture, but they're there. They came in without event, no rash or fussing or runny nose. He has a pretty legitimate bite too, mostly gums, but he'll clamp down on you.

The big thing we're dealing with is sleeping of course. He didn't take a nap until 3pm today. Crazy boy. It doesn't bother him either. He did fall asleep in my arms at 12:30 but when I went to put him in the crib, he was awake and ready to go. He also woke up 4 times between 7pm and 7am last night. That is a lot.

We had our friend over for a little play date. She is 5.5 months and tiny, but can crawl and get up on all fours. Not sure what this weekend will hold. Too cold and late for holiday activities downtown.

Rick is doing well, he is doing some intense training so he can get his grey belt in combat training (hand to hand, wrestling, mma, stuff like that) I just hope he doesn't get hurt doing that.

So big.

We haven't quite mastered the Johnny Jumper (or whatever it's called) yet but he loves to be held and jumped. Also loves singing Jingle Bells. And LOVES sweet potatoes. More than carrots and peas, but I don't blame him.

Don't worry family, I will keep the Gobbler tradition alive. By myself. Slowly.

Sleep

Bobby slept for 8 hours continuously last night, a new record. Then up at 6:30am. Combination of full belly and too-short naps.

November

A lot is going on in Bobbys little life right now. He is almost sitting up unassisted. He can for a few seconds and almost seems to right himself when he starts listing. He is reaching for EVERYTHING. And if he gets it, he puts it in his mouth, or tries to. He is so curious in everything around him and also checks out people a lot.

The other big development is food. So he's getting two small meal a day (mostly) , one cereal and one vegetable. Usually they go down well enough, although he hasn't really mastered the mechanics yet. Doesn't open his mouth willingly, or at the right time to accept food. But at least it doesn't come spewing out.

I am writing this while he lies in his crib awake, and trying to see if he'll put himself to sleep. He was pretty tired at bathtime and I nursed and rocked him for half an hour but he was having none of the sleep part, so we'll see if I go back in there (my bet is yes)

(still chattering away in there...)

All in all, he seems to be a very laid back, tough kid. He is very easy going and smiles a lot, rolls with the punches (figurative and literal).

Carrots

I'd call this a success. We did carrots and he seemed to like them. Was also pretty hungry I think. He hasn't necessarily gotten the mechanics of eating down, but if I get it in there, he can get it down. We're still taking it very slowly, but he has shown a lot of interest in food that I eat. I am committed to rice cereal daily, starting now. He also might be starting to teethe and mouths things even more.

Friday

Today, Bobby took a 4 hour morning nap?! But I guess it wasn't morning by the time he finished it though. My sleeping experiment last night didn't work. That was to feed him before I went at 11 in hopes he'd sleep until morning. He went down first at 6pm and for good at 7pm. Instead he woke up a little after 1am, then 5am, and for good at 7. The alternative is him sleeping 7pm to 2am or so, then up at 4 and 6. So which is the lesser of 2 evils?

Then we went swimming. He liked it well enough. Only a little spit up in the pool, oops. I feel dehydrated from it though so am trying to get more fluids in him.

Last night

Bobby slept from 7:20pm to 4am YAY

And from 5:30am to 7:30 UGH

The Latest

bobby rolled over yesterday (11/1) from back to front for the first time i think. he's done it on a soft bed but that doesn't count.

he also rolled over the day before from front to back. he did that for the first time around 9/15 but doesn't do it often. he gets plenty of tummy time but just stays there

as far as eating, we have tried the rice cereal 3 times. if you can call if that. it's been about 10 bites or less each time. i basically pump less than an ounce then mix up a very watery paste. he doesn't react poorly to it, i think it's okay to start now if for nothing else to get him to the spoon. once he sees it coming, his hands go to it and i usually spill it on him. if i get to his (closed) mouth, he sort of laps it up. If i get the spoon in, he sort of takes it. sometimes it all comes out, but sometimes not. i consider this progress. usually it comes out about 20 minutes later. i do however think he's ready (5 months old on Wednesday) he just seems to want something else sometimes. i know all babies put stuff in their mouths, but i think he's ready. of course, we'll take it way slow as we are, hardly a meal replacement at this stage, it's almost a novelty.

i have also introduced a sippy cup, which he likes. grabs it with both hands and aims for his open mouth. he never gets it there though. i know this is early, but we will skip a bottle at this rate, he's never taken it easily and has had probably 2 bottles in the last 2 months so it might be hard at this stage. again, just familiarity with the sippy cup, like the spoon.

he is drinking a lot of bathwater that he sucks from the washcloth. even if i take it away from him, he just sucks his wet fist. hmm... he has taken some sips of real water and loves it. also spills a lot but i won't give him much (think like droplets) since he needs nutrition from milk and don't want him to fill up.

and oh yah. he moved into his own room! (thanks mom) so far so good, although we did battle it out last night at 3:30am. I won, if you can call it that at 5am and he went back in the crib. woo hoo.

We went The Little Gym Monday, 45 minutes assisted exercises - tapping feet and shaking things. 4 other babies. i think he was hungry but seemed interested in it. will have to price it out, but might be something we want to do. going to the park later to walk.

October

One handed typing b/c I'm a sucker and want my baby to get a good nap. i do have to put him down soon to feed the dogs.

couple nice days here so we got a lot of outside time, even went to the dog park - what was i thinking! He is still easy enough to take care of but getting more demanding as in, he is actually worth playing with now, so we do, also needy and doesn't like to be left alone.

sleep continues to be irregular, took a 3 hr nap the other day, but last night didn't get to bed until 9:45pm! i would like a routine for naps but am not going to be a slave to a forced schedule, he gets to sleep often, if not for too long.

we have no Halloween plans but will still get dressed up, for a while at least, its supposed to be 80 almost

rick is good, they have storms so power and internet have been iffy. we talk just as if he was in california but i guess just not several times a day.

4.5 months

15 pounds, 7 ounces - 50th percentile
25 3/4 inches long - 50%
42 cm head - 75%

lungs, heart good, head shape good, eyes straight. very simple appt. looked in ears, mouth, etc. nothing really to report. will keep an eye on the spit up in case he starts to get bothered by it, i can start food anytime now, got vaccines but no flu shot for under six month olds.

he can roll over, but doesn't. he is getting more stable at sitting up - assisted for now. very good at putting weight on his legs.

doing well at night, sleeping about 5 hours, then 4 more. continuing to find a routine for naps, it will be better now that the house is back to normal.

going to start back on the vitamin drops since it's getting wintery.

Sleeping

So it's been up and down. Mainly inconsistent, but we're sticking with it. He's been in the crib all night, generally waking up every 3-5 hours still, but last night was better. We went for a 2 hour walk so that might have tired him out, but he took a little cat nap at 5:30 or so, so I let him stay up later than usual. So bath was at 7 instead of 6:20.

He was asleep by 7:45pm, woke up at 12:20, back in the crib at 12:50am and then I got him out of bed at 7am! YAY. napping now in the crib too.

it's cold here, which I like b/c he looks really cute in sweatpants.

Day 1

I know this makes for dull material, but it's my life right now.

7pm Last night went to bed well in the crib. was very tired, didn't eat much, didn't expect a long duration here

7:40 awake, easily put down again. (I guess he's one of those babies who can't put himself back to sleep easily after a sleep cycle)

8 up for a little burp, down quickly

9:10 up and down easily again

10:50 up and down still in the crib

2am awake and ready to go

3am still awake, not drowsy. here i give in. we go to the big bed.

4am he finally nods off after chattering the whole time

7:30am awake for the day

so far i have interrupted 2 good naps, by putting him in the crib. got about 75 minutes out of him b/c i had to sleep too, see above why.

Operation Crib Sleep

Get the baby into the crib to sleep has begun. I know I'm doing it wrong but it doesn't work anyway. I nurse him in a dark room with white noise and he falls asleep, put him in the crib, he wakes up, i burp him, he falls asleep on my shoulder, put him in the crib, he wakes up. Lie down with him in the bed, he falls asleep.

I get the whole, put him down drowsy but awake thing, and have tried, but that just leads to cranky and very awake. I would prefer that b/c trying to transfer him to the crib when he is asleep is asking for trouble.

He does sleep on his stomach (for supervised naps) very well. Will ask the doc if this is okay b/c he has good chest and head control.

Meanwhile, I have to move him out of 3 month pajamas. he is just too long.

Jackpot

Just got back from our second Giants game in two days. And it was all free! Last night we were coming up the elevator and the other family in there asked us if we had tickets yet, we said no and they gave us some, for free! And they were good. lower deck, right field line. The uy worked for Petco and just had extras!

Today, we met Julie for the game who was in town for a ENT conference. She had gone out last night and met some relative of Jon Miller (the Giants (& ESPN) radio guy) and gave her tickets. Also good ones, same area. It was a good game too, but we were in the shade and it was breezy. It is October, but SoCal's supposed to be sunny and 70 all the time right! So we paid $35 for parking for 2 days right next to the entrance. Good to go!

Anyway, final dinner at Outback tonight then an early morning!!!

Four months

Still in California, so no unofficial weigh in. And b/c we were late with the 2 month appt and shots have to be 8 weeks apart, we don't go back to the doctor for a week or so.

Having a really nice time with Rick, he only worked til about 6:30pm (early for him) so we got to hang out this week a fair amount. Bobby and I just killed time, walking, some errands, went to the Ocean, not much. It also meant bedtimes were a little later, but he seemed to do fine with it, he just had to get in some Dad time.

Carolyn came in for work Thursday night, so it was a great coincidence and we were lucky she was able to bring Cash and stay at our hotel. This meant I got to babysit Cash on Friday, which was actually super easy. Mostly due to the fact he took a 3,5 hour nap in the middle of it, and then we just read and explored the rest of the time. Bobby even got his morning nap in undisturbed. There was only one little boo boo ("hurt"). I was watching closely actually but nursing I think and Cash slipped on a book and whacked his eye on his truck I think. He barely whimpered but it looks bad and it's right on his eyebrow so could have been worse, but he's a tough kid, who now looks Tough.

Saturday Rick didn't have to work like usual and we went to breakfast at Mimi's, (they had a seasonal pumpkin spice muffin, yum) Then to the SeaLife Aquarium at Legoland. It worked out so well, it is about 2 miles from the hotel and opened at 10, and we got there 10:30 or something. Plus the cashier gave us coupons so tickets were $5 instead of $18.95! Kids free. It was worth about that. Not crowded, inside, cool fish. Cash was a little stubborn and Bobby slept the second half, but it was a good day. Then Carolyn got on the road earlier than planned so she could get home and rest, but it was a lovely visit.

Saturday afternoon we rested too, because the Giants are in town. So I felt pretty bad driving down to San Diego as the sun set, thinking what am I subjecting my kid to? But he did great at the 7pm game. Didn't sleep b/c it was just too loud and bright, but here it is 10:30 the next morning and he's still asleep. Got to get his 12 hours. (non continuous of course) Silly me thought I'd be able to run a few errands for us this morning.

I leave early Monday and fly all day. Rick leaves midnight Tuesday, direct to Iraq.

Back To California

We made it uneventfully, got to the hotel at 2 am eastern. Plane rides were good, baby slept about half of the way to Detroit. Detroit is a long way from San Diego, basically Canada to Mexico, so it meant for a long second flight (4.5hrs), right about bedtime. It was also 30+ minutes late leaving. Bobby was really good, very happy and quiet. He fell asleep right before 7:30pm takeoff for about 30 minutes, but then was up until 10pm Eastern. Wide awake, very happy. There was another baby, probably closer to a year old, who cried 90% of the flight. Yikes. Then he slept from then on, through landing, baggage claim the drive home. Fed him and got a few more hours out of him. The problem is a one room hotel rooms, means for early evenings and early mornings for everyone. We'll see how that goes. Same with nap time.

He spit up a lot. changed his outfit during the layover. Could have changed mine. Was also one burp away from his third shirt. And he continues to this morning, All done with a big smile, but I think watch my diet, although I had very little dairy (cheese on sandwich) yesterday.

I thought Ricks computer could take my camera card so I didn't bring the connecting cord, so photos will have to wait.

Well, I spoke too soon, the last 4 nights sleep have been really lousy, after his first chunk of sleep 8-12, maybe 1am, he is waking OFTEN. Growth spurt? or just being a stinker. I pretty much hate bed time. I'm just impatient and it's such a crap shoot whether and how I get him to sleep.

He is able to suck up to 3 fingers right now, but doesn't seem to do it at bed time.

Our days in the bouncy seat may be numbered. If he is strapped in, it doesn't take long before he is trying to sit up. Same even in his car seat. Both during his walk and riding around, he does a mini crunch and just leans forward as much as the straps allow. He just can't wait to grow up and sit up :(

Got my nails done, updated for fall season.

We are coping, as we should.

We did it

So the queen bed is a little cramped lately and I'd been meaning to use this week to transition to the crib, so I did it. I put Bobby to bed as usual, just a little late, but nurse, burp, lay down in the bed and nurse while he drift off. But at 10pm when I went to bed, I moved him to his crib (still in my room). He slept until 1am there, back to sleep 1:30-4:30 in the crib, then 4:50-7:30am in the crib! This is good. Harder on me to get up and nurse in the rocker, but I am glad he can sleep "on his own"

He also slept in later, usually he gets up around 6 and can stay half asleep but squirmy until i get him out of bed 7/7:30ish. Sometimes if he wakes 5:30am -ish, he will go back to sleep 7-8. Yesterday we woke at 6am, but nappped 8-10am. So we'll see what today brings. But hooray for the crib. The next step will be moving him down the hall.

Baby Bobby

What's new with us? Let's see....
He actually rolled over twice (front to back) unprompted during tummy time yesterday. He was in mini push up/cobra position and then just went over. I didn't turn him or anything. He had gone over back to front on the bed before but that was b/c it was so soft. He is doing really well on his stomach, where as it used to bother him after about 5 minutes, he now seems to like hanging out there.

He seems really strong for a little guy. You can see it in his quads, calves and shoulders, but probably b/c he's so lean. He doesn't like to bend at the waist. So when you pick him up from lying down, he basically goes straight to standing. One day laying on grammys chest, he straightened his legs and basically stood up. He does though like to be upright in general, mostly sitting propped up or over a shoulder. Sort of past the cuddling, depending on his mood.

Still spitting up a lot. Yay.

Sleeping is hit or miss. Sometimes good, other just okay. I think he's getting enough sleep, but I end up holding him to get in a good nap, and putting him to bed is a solid process. I can usually go from the start of his bath to asleep in 45' but it's a crap shoot whether he sleeps 1 or 3 hours at that point. The other night he slept 8pm to 2am, his longest stretch yet. I think we are still recovering from visiting Timberlake, having the Wilsons here, then picking up Rick from the airport at 9pm. Several days of wonky napping threw us off, but we're back on and today was a good day, napping 8-10am, then 3 other naps of about 45-60 minutes each (including now) so again, bedtime is any ones guess.

What else, still not taking a pacifier, I've abandoned that effort. He can sort of suck his pointer finger and sometimes a thumb (knuckle at least) but not in a soothing manner, just sort of something to do. He likes looking at his hands, sometimes holds his own hand and his grip is very strong when he gets something.

Rick is here, he has lost 10 pounds, I am struggling to keep these same 2 off, so it's tough trying to fatten him up and stick to my plan. Especially when it's so fun to eat out and get ice cream etc. Need Will power this week!

3 Months Today

Approx 13.5 pounds, so that's 1 pound in 3 weeks, about 5 ounces a week. On the slow side of gaining weight, but he's great. Very chatty. And strong. Instead of just kicking the air now, he is able to put his feet down and arch his back while lying down. Have to be careful of this one. He's studying his fist and hands and I think is just starting to reach and grab for things. Just barely though. He's been slow to open up his fisted hands but that's changing as I type. He has a good grip once he gets something, intentionally or not. He is also a "happy spitter." He spits up a lot, but it doesn't seem to upset him, just is a bit gross and stinky and means a lot of laundry for both of us.

Sleeping is hit or miss. Spends about 11-12 hours at night asleep, in bouts from 2-5 hours long, depending on the day. Naps 3 times usually, anywhere from 30 minutes to 3 hours, either in the Pack and Play, big bed, Port a Crib, or even his swing and bouncey seat. I would like this to be about 45-75 minutes 3 times, but sometimes it just doesn't work out that way. And even if that's enough sleep, I don't like how he's getting it. Needs to be nursed or rocked to sleep, and he sleeps in my bed. I didn't plan it this way, but I will admit, it's much easier in the middle of the night but once he starts crawling and Rick is around, it won't work. I am going to try to get him into his crib more, but he just doesn't sleep as well there.

He's in size 2 diapers. I bought a couple new outfits, 3-6 months size. He is pretty true to size but we are getting ready for cooler days. There are 3 consignment sales next weekend, so we'll be busy! Then Rick comes Monday 9/14 and we are super excited to see him and just allow him to get some rest and family time.

2 Months

Actually 10 weeks. 12.55 pounds, 23.5 inches. pretty average all in all. Got an oral vaccine combo which he actually took relatively well considering he's never had anything but milk. he also got 3 shot vaccines. OUCH. He did really well actually. The first needle he didn't cry at all (yet) and she was really fast putting in the second in his quad then the third in the other leg. Then he screamed for about 10 seconds then relaxed but he still wasn't pleased.

Doctor is nice, no concerns from him or me. He said he has water in his scrotum, so that's why his balls are so big. They won't always be that big. Pretty normal stuff. An innocent murmur and a little bit of cradle cap starting. But his tear duct might be cleared up. it's been gunk free for several days now.

Otherwise just sitting around growing and running errands. It's pretty boring actually and makes me want to work. I miss coaching right now and wish I were involved in something, but my main focus (after him) should be losing weight. No other moms I see are chunky still!

Rick is still getting ready for his deployment out in the desert. We get emails when he can but no cell phone reception. They also go into the field every now and then, where they camp out and eat MREs. t sounds like he's doing mostly legal work at the remote base site. And it's about 105+ degrees, so he makes sure to hydrate. He is coming here Sept. 14 which happens to coincide with Harvey's visit....

California

Quick update while the baby naps. I was all packed up and we were walking out the door when I realized Rick has the stroller in the back of his car, at work. Doh. I can wrap him up but it's a little hot and long for that, so we'll go sit by the pool and hopefully rick can come home for lunch. he's really busy but I'm still glad I stayed, the weekend went really fast.

it was great having the Martins visit. We went to the LaJolla beach for a bit, but weren't really prepared to have a beach day so it was just the right amount of short. Lunch out and then just dinner and visiting after naps. Sunday was pool and lunch. Time flies with children, nothing is quick with us yet and napping dominates. Baby adjusted very well after first night and day. Slept all Saturday night - almost 12 hours with small feeding breaks. and since then has been well rested and behaved and sleeping on pacific coast night time, about 10-7am. He's been very gassy but at least at night has been going back to sleep easily.

Monday we went on the base and took care of adding bobby to the insurance and went shopping a bit. then walmart and best buy. got rick a 10 inch netbook for $300 and it has turned out to be worth it. small keyboard but sharp display and webcam and very functional and light. no CD drive, but for email, Internet and skype, it's perfect.

today we will go over to the Carlsbad outlets and check out coach and gymboree and BCBG and barneys and the like, tomorrow who knows, maybe Judy M can get me out of here, then i take the red eye back at 10pm so hopefully that experience will be smooth too, getting out here was pretty simple, baby was awake but undisruptive. he slept the whole short first flight, but then only about an hour on the 4 hour flight, it helped the guy next to me had noise cancelling head phones but i hated getting him up to change diapers. no movie which i thought was weird but good salmon dinner!

i am really excited to see wiley and archer again and sad i missed the cake decorating party but will make up for it this coming weekend.

The 336

Life in Greensboro is good so far. We have adjusted well and are enjoying it. Bobby is even getting used to the barking, and only occasionally gets spooked still. He was doing great the last couple days, working up to almost 5 hours straight of sleeping for a couple nights. This is however from 9-2am so if I don't go to bed until 11, I don't get all that sleep too. The last two nights have been more of a blur and he has quit sleeping after about 2 and I don't know where the hours go until 7am. Oh well. He is growing and eating. Currently, he's been asleep for 2.5+ hours so I might pay for that later. He's also doing well when we go shopping and run errands, provided he is fed well and generally stays in motion. He has behaved really well for Grammy while I go to the gym and takes his bottle when hungry.

I am still a city person and hate having to drive 12 minutes to the gym. Ick.
And people down here have real thick accents sometimes.

Comparison Shopping

So I've been looking through old flickr a lot. it's actually fun, i just wish they had an easier way to scroll through. Beside the point.

It is wild to see how kids grow. Wiley at 11 months was a totally different creature. when he was just learning to walk etc. wow

then since Carolyn has birth pics up, I've come to the realization, that babies are sort of generic looking. Not in a bad way at all, but they don't look like much at 5 weeks. just cute. I see a lot of similarities btw Cash and Bobby. Cash is a lot chubbier though, even for 9.12, we are at 9 and a half pounds or so but don't have the cheeks Cash did. I think Bobby might be long for his weight right now. I am feeding him a lot, I want him to get big and fat. Also, if that's what brown hair looks like on babies, we don't have it here. Still TBD.

Grammy is on her way, we are excited to have company again.

i'm screwed

so i've been waiting for the baby to get up so i can feed him, but he is out. and has been. basically since 2pm. he's gotten up twice to eat but then goes down again for 2.5-3 hour chunks. this might be a long night for me. i guess i'll lie down now too.
we were up a lot last night and all morning We slept well 9ish-12pm Thursday, and 12-2:30am but then he was up until 5am, slept until 6am, up until 7:30, up after 8:30am then awake until 2pm. so i hope he's making up for that instead of taking away from tonights rest.

July

nothing going on. had a good visit with rick. sad to see him go again.

1 month visit for the kid on Monday. he was 9 pounds, 6 ounces. 21.5 inches or something like that. length was pretty inprecise. got a hep B vaccine. big needle right in his skinny thigh. couple good screams then settled down.

i went to my follow up OB appt today. i am all healed. the nice little old lady nurse thought i was doing good since i was 14 pounds less than my 17 week check up. didn't mention i was still 18 pounds over my 10 week appt weight.

baby is pretty good. he gets fussy at spells and won't settle down but they don't last long at all. he spits up what i think is a lot, and i assume he eats too much too fast but then starts crying for food about 5 minutes later. odd. pooping less which i guess is normal.

i am getting pretty cabin feverish, but there's only so many errands i can create and do. and things i would do inside i can't do unless i ignore him. i don't like walking too long since if he gets hungry i can't plop down on a curb and feed him just like that. so it will be nice when i can hopefully pass him onto grammy to watch at naptime and i can go to the gym or something.

4th of July

Robert is one month old. Yay. It is nice having Rick here. He has changed a lot of diapers for me! Also did laundry and some house errands. And I took a really long shower today. It's nice to just have company too. If I could somehow wrangle a pedicure and massage, life would be great. We have a doctors appt on Monday then Rick leaves in the evening.

We went to the Outback for dinner. Robert did really well (sleeping). We also spent today at the pool while Rick practiced his swimming. Tonight we watched fireworks then walked to Wendys for a frosty in the moby wrap.

Looks like I will be out of here around the 15th. I think that is a good timeline and I am ready to be in North Carolina. I think it will be fun.

Two Things

Well, this whole bad economy never affected us so far, but now it has - Screwed by the struggling airlines. Rick's 79,000 frequent flier miles have expired. I guess back in February, but with no warning or anything. Maybe just some fine print about use it or lose it. Sucks. Why we need them is because he is coming home for 4th of July. Woohoo. However, tickets are $550+. Money is no object this time, he's coming no matter what, but it would have been nice to use the 50K miles he thought he had saved.

Completely separately, I stole this from elsewhere, but what will TLC call the next generation of the show now?

• Jon Plus 8 (Friday through Sunday), Kate All The Other Days.
• Jon & Kate Seper8
• Jon H8s Kate

We are doing well, enjoying walking longer each day. Making up errands to do to kill time. Feeling a little cabin fever, but I know it's best to keep him sheltered a little bit. I do wish I had some patio furniture though. If I could get it home I would buy a plastic lawn chair from the CVS.

Weight

According to the Wii Fit, my baby weighs 8.8 pounds. I don't think it's all that accurate.

The floor scale has him at 8.0.

And.

He got fussy so I chickened out on giving him a real bath again so he's a dirty boy. He is getting a lot of wiping down. A submersion bath is now our goal for tomorrow.

And apparently, I have to have baby lights and baby dark clothes. I guess I have enough to wait for a half load, but honestly, that is a lot of laundry and you all know my washer takes upwards of 90 minutes to do a load, maybe more. Anyway, now I have a really cute light blue romper instead of a white one and a dingy yellow one. But my new navy blue changing pad cover is ready to go. I did have a moments pause when I put it in, but not enough I guess. I did hold the red onesie out though!

Day 15 of Life

Well that was sort of rough. We went to Babies R Us uneventfully around noon today, then home for a long nap and sitting around. Went out to ATM and Subway around 6 then he was up. I think he got his 18 hours of sleep in from midnight to 6pm today at least. He was very fidgety and eating a ton, or at least 'on the breast' but I assume there was milk coming out, eventually he dozed off and I put him in the bassinet, but then he let out 2 or 3 screams, which I never want to hear again. He doesn't ever cry and barely even whimpers so I hate that sound even more. So we cuddled and I didn't think he was hungry, but he ate some more and then I'd go to put him in a more comfortable position in my arms and he'd be up all over again. Switch sides and same thing would happen. I was waiting for a huge spit up but it didn't come either. Wonder if he was that hungry. Fine by me if he was. I am just sort of feeding him all the time and letting him decide when he's done. Sometimes it's an hour apart, sometimes 3, generally lasting for 10-20 minutes. There's really no pattern. Anyway, he's down now, on the changing pad on the couch and I'm sitting in the dark typing. I need to fold laundry, I guess I could do it in the kitchen. This better be a one time thing. Bedtime cannot be this complicated. I think he was just wound up for whatever reason and got overly tired. I didn't even want to change him or carry him the 20 steps to the bedroom in case he woke up. Poor kid, I have no idea what I'm doing.

2 weeks old

Well Rick is on the road, so we are on our own. Nights are fine. Lonely but fine. I will probably miss adult companionship really soon. We went out to the grocery store this morning. Around 11am. Took 6 minutes to get there, we were in and out in 30 minutes. And I didn't even park in the expecting mothers spot. Put his car seat in the cart and food all around him, so it was a smaller trip, but that's what i have to get used to because unloading the car and getting it upstairs is the real hassle. He was awake but calm the whole time. We're going to rest for a few hours now and then maybe treat ourselves to a smoothie and a walk later. It's really me who is worse for the wear physically after going out. Don't know if I have a busted stitch or this is just normal recovery. I am ready to get out of here though. Ready for the move, but will wait until mid July after both of our next check ups. Hopefully Rick can come back for 4th of July and we'll pack up then.

We're Alone

And I'm sort of excited about it. I guess I just feel stressed with house guests and want them to be entertained and taken care of. I got over it for the most part, but I like just the 3 of us.

We tried something a little different last night. After he fed a lot, like 10, 11, 12 pm we burped, changed and put right down. Same thing at 3am, usually I cuddle until he is out then move him to the bassinet, but once his eyes closed, he went down and stayed down. Made for more sleep for all of us I think. I think every day is still different, it's tough to have to burp him or even change him because those things wake him up.

I'm not sure if it's us doing the laundry or the kid is bigger but 2 of his rompers didn't really fit from heel to neck.

Due Date!

We had a follow up check up this morning for Baby's billirubin levels. I would like to go to the pediatricians every week. it puts me at ease. he's probably in the top percentage of healthy babies but not knowing how one acts, i can be suspicious of everything.

He weighed 7 pounds 12.8 ounces. Last Monday he was 6 lb 14oz when we went in for follow up at 5 days old, born 7 lb. 3 oz. I was very happy to hear this. They didn't pull blood, although he is still a bit yellow down to his armpit line, they weren't too worried since eating and peeing and pooping is going well. I asked all my questions and got them answered. His stool is normal, his tear ducts are closed but we are going to massage them. This doctor still recommended the Vitamin supplement (more A and D than iron).

We returned the pump. It was $2/day and we haven't used it since Wednesday probably but it was worth not making the trip back.

Everything went smoothly and they actually combined our 2 week visit with this to save us a trip so we go back July 6 for 1 month.

How do I look?

Notice anything different?

Saturday

After I took Grammy to the airport - breaking my no driving for 2 weeks rule, we got in a little nap, a feeding then we went out! There is a quite nice farmers market at the corner, but I did a lap and chickened out. We sat outside and ate. It was good to get out and the longer Rick sleeps in, the more I think I could really handle this by myself. We'll see at the end of next week when I haven't been cooked for and cleaned up after.

Friday

Why is nothing so appealing to poop as a brand new diaper?

We have both been peed on several times. Poor kid rarely has clothes on. I don't know if it's because it's warm or we just don't get around to it since we change him so often.

So my feet didn't swell until the very end of pregnancy (during the shower) but boy did they swell up while I was in the labor suite for some reason. no clots or anything, but my new crocs which i wanted so bad did not fit. a little better now though.

milk supply is not a problem, 'nuf said.

we went for a lovely walk. he slept through it all, but boy was i happy to get out. the whole neighborhood is either up or downhill though. and bumpy!

We think he's filling out more, but it's probably only a whopping 3 ounce weight gain. he looks better each day. less saggy skin.

i don't like burping. i guess I'm just impatient. especially when I'm trying to get him to feed on both sides, it just seems like a long break in between and he won't go back to work after his break.

Grammy leaves tonight. we'll miss her. she has spoiled us very much. but we'll be okay too.

One week

Another good night. Not great, he tends to like to drag his middle feeding out (2-3:30) in this case. But then a nap and up at 6 to eat again. He is latching well, sometimes a little resistant, but because he can, not because he's actively refusing.

I am really fat. I don't care it's only been a week. I see now I gained too much weight and am regretting it. Don't worry, I'm still eating 3 meals and about 3 snacks, but add in my new sedentary life, I'll never lose this 20 pounds. We do have the stroller together so may venture out into the world today.

I have lots of random thoughts, so I think I'll start keeping a note pad so you too can experience them. Maybe I'll skip the boob and girly part thoughts. I put up my extensive description of labor, so it's way too long, but I'll print it out and put it in his baby book since I have a lousy memory.

My only concern today is his stool, the runny part has been very yellow mustard and runny, but he also has some "solid" stool - moer artichoke paste consistency than yogurt. almost a little turd that is very squishable. he is pooping a lot so i'm not that worried.

Jaundice :(

He also looks like a redhead here, but it's probably his yellow skull.

Home Day 3

So I meant to write this this morning, but the day just passes. I don't know where it goes since we do nothing. Which is nice, just rest and feed. Last night was pretty good. I had my alarm on even to really be sure he eats a lot and regularly, but he actually woke up right on schedule 12, 3 and 6 ish. He eats for 30 minutes then we cuddle and he goes down really easy. The 6am meal took a lot longer, and we were working on it until about 7:30am. But I am confident he is eating well today. Some were shorter than I like, but in that case he'd get right back on after being put down. He just falls asleep with me way too easily. Luckily Grammy likes to harass him kindly and give him little talks and he usually behaves after that. The previous two nights had started the same, but the second half he was wide awake from 4am onward.


I have a little general anxiety, but only because I want him to be perfect and gain weight and be healthy. I think mom has told me "he's only 5 days old" a million times. So all this sleeping is normal and he's basically just getting used to being alive.

He does have some serious jaundice. We had a follow up Monday morning after being dismissed Saturday at 2pm. They took another bilirubin blood test to see where his levels were at. He was 14.5 out of an allowable 15 before they would want to bring him in for an overnight with the lights. Tuesday morning he seemed even more yellow - it had worked down to his chest and arms. So I called the doctor. I had to and feel better that I did. They left it up to me if I brought him in, basically to ease my mind, but I am choosing to wait it out day by day, rather than have his little bony heel get pricked again. Bottom line is he is eating well and peeing and pooping a ton. Eating isn't perfect but he is getting latched on just fine and getting lots in. I think he is a little lethargic, but he can be aroused, eventually - usually by getting naked and tickled a bit.

What else... well this is where we need a private reading section so Dad doesn't have to be subjected to such details. I am sure this is a natural process and quite a design, it sure does take a toll on your body. I can't imagine how I'll lose this weight. I guess when mom isn't cooking for me, it may be easier. So right now I'll just take care of healing.

We might have to venture out to the sidewalk or something so I don't go crazy and Bobby can get some indirect sun. We are sitting in a huge thunderstorm now and he doesn't flinch. Same thing when the smoke detector went off. He is a deep sleeper which is good and bad. More as soon as I feel up to it. Roseann comes tonight. Thanks to all for concern, care and advice.

The Arrival

Wednesday night, 6/3/09. We buy 20th row tickets to the Nationals - Giants game to see Randy Johnson win his 300th game. It's supposed to start at 7pm. There is a rain delay so we want to wait it out. It clears then storms again. We're in it for the long haul because Rick was going to leave the first time on Thursday and we wanted to see the game. We were sitting in the last row of the lower deck since that was the only overhang (too much detail, but tough). So around 9:40pm, I feel a little surge of maybe discharge and thought "hmm, that's different," I told Rick something might be up but felt fine so just sat there. Then I got a little warmer and wetter. So I decided to go to the bathroom and I was leaking. Went ahead and peed, but was definitely wet. Went back to our section, then think I called Elizabeth, Mom, Carolyn, but no one was there! Went back to the bathroom, saw I was much wetter, called Liz again. I got Rick and updated him. We called our doctors service and decided to head out of there around 10.

We took the metro home, which was sort of funny. Rick was panicking, waiting for me to start having contractions and drop to the floor I think. I was cracking up since I was so wet. Every time I got up from my seat or even from moving, another gush. It was ridiculous. Finally got home, actually took a shower, finished packing our bags and headed to Georgetown hospital. There was no traffic at least.

We signed in at 11:50pm. I changed over and they sent someone to check me. It was really funny, they kept saying, we'll check you out, as if to say, we need to check your story out. They checked me and I was 3cm dilated. Water was broken. Gee, no kidding. I wasn't feeling contractions, but was having them. They started getting stronger within the hour. They hooked me up to the monitors and a IV of fluids. Also got pitosin. I don't know what time, relatively early. We tried to get some rest, but sometime in the middle of the night, contractions got really painful. I asked to be checked and at 5am, I was a whopping 4cm. Since that progress was so slow and I was really hurting, I decided to get an epidural because we thought, and the doctor too, that we were looking at a dinner baby. Got the epi at 5:30am. Felt better right away. I was able to rest a bit. I started feeling a pretty bad ache in my lower pelvis so hit the button like 3 times between 7 and 8am. The new shift of doctors was on later on and I got checked by them (med student, resident) around 8am. I was 8cm or so, so we were in business. They came back at 8:45 to check me and the head doc examined me, said the baby was OP - sunny side up. She reached in and twisted him around super easily apparently, also dilating me to 9cm+. So the med student and the nurse had me start pushing. I was very good at this. Didn't feel contraction at first, but I wasn't hitting the drug pusher very much anymore so they came back when it mattered. One nurse had me turn on my side because his heart rate was erratic (laying on cord?) which made my leg completely numb and so heavy. LONG story short, we started pushing around 9 I guess. Mom had made it around 8:30 luckily and we went right into action right after.

I asked the doctor to take off my skin tag and she did, first - I thought that would be part of the post process. Pushing was good, quite easy actually, it helps not feeling it. I recommend drugs. For details on pushing - ask Mom or Rick. He came out easily, sat on my chest for a while. Rick did not want to cut the cord. He was extremely cheesy when he came out. They made mom and Rick go with him to weigh and clean etc (which was in an attached room) because apparently the sewing and other activities are not for the light hearted, but they would have been fine.

I was looking around, I apparently sent my friend a text at 8:38am telling her that I couldn't make it out Thursday night as planned (duh) and then I got on the bberry to update my status at 10:30am. I made this labor thing seem easy ;) I would have like to try it without drugs, but it hurt, so I felt no need to suffer.

June

Finally getting settled and realizing this apartment is way too tiny. We have no plan for the future so we just don't talk about it. As much as I want to get out of here, I don't know how the logistics of moving would work with a newborn and even where we would go. Stressful.

Rick is tentatively leaving Thursday, so we are going to Giants games the next 2 nights for a Lincecum game and hopefully Randy Johnsons 300th win.

It's nice and hot here and I've been very lazy despite having a few things to take care of. I haven't worked out in a couple days, but I figure it's an okay time to take a break. I feel very heavy though and am ready to have this kid. Feet are better in general, have some bloody boogers (sorry TMI) and I probably need to see a dermatologist, but I hear this is all par for the course of normal pregnancy. He is moving a ton, or maybe the same amount, but hopefully it feels like a lot because he's big and healthy.

37 weeks

Nothing happening yet. Doc said he won't even check me until 39 weeks. I told him everyone says I am small, and he says. "well, you're not big" but I think it's just how I dress. I was shopping for a dress today and put on some that made me look and feel like a house. Also, Motherhood Maternity has a really lousy return policy. Good thing i didn't even know that store existed in the mall until now. Didn't even bother to go to Pea in the Pod. Was pretty wiped after gym, doctors, eating and 2 mall shops.

BP: 108/70, heart rate strong. My tour is scheduled for 6/7. Better late than never. I am getting worried about this teensy apartment, but I know it's not permanent. I am excited for the shower. I think I'll make Rick come since it's a small group and he never sees his mom. No idea when he'll leave. Friday could be the day, but they've really messed up and know he's starting to realize if he gets through this weekend, he might as well just stay. Especially since his birthday is Friday so I don't think he wants to leave then. However, we're both really bored at home all this time.

36 Weeks

Nothing exciting going on. Baby is head down, apparently normal sized, heart rate good. just have to wait. Going back weekly now.

Rick is still here, and may be for a while. We still have insurance apparently, just no income. There is a pretty big glitch in the paperwork/organization, so we'll see if it gets worked out, or he needs to start applying for other billets.

So we're just enjoying our early summer together so far. Seen 3 movies in 4 days. Working out, organizing, etc. Will try to take him shopping today just to look around, but we really don't have the space for any baby stuff. Just the essentials.

Almost 8 months

Nothing new to report. Feeling good, trying to get lots of rest, sleeping is okay some days, lousy some days. Usually the first 4-5 hours are good. He is moving a ton during the day.

I hope our week straight of rain has passed. The river is flooded so we're not rowing on the water and it's really tough to continue motivation on land. We head to Philadelphia on Thursday for our last race.

Last night, the girls had a little baby shower for me. It was really cute, they were really proud of themselves. It was a total surprise too. Got an album and a little PJ set. They're a good bunch of kids.

Rick is still here and seems to be in no rush to leave. Which is good and bad, but I think he needs to get on it. They are just really disorganized and it is up to him to get his stuff in line.

Busy Week

Lots to report, but i just never felt like sitting down to type. We are moved in, it's good, not great. good location, easy to get to and access, but i miss our old place. I miss the Tivo and while i thought that place was a little cluttered, this one is definitely lived in and kitchy. lots of crappy crap and stuff crammed into every nook and cranny. way too much kitchen goods and old stuff - like it was the dumping ground for aunts and uncles and friends who knew they were setting up a second rental place in the city. ick. bed is uncomfy, but i'll live. balcony is full of pigeon crap and the birds come and coo in the morning. i got really spoiled the last year.

We moved LATE Thursday, rested Friday and unpacked this weekend. It took a lot out of me. I didn't do any heavy lifting but just being up too late (got a late start, R likes to sleep and is slow moving) and then morning practice Friday, I am still really wiped. Saturday was another pre-6am wake up so I'm using today to recoup.

We had Virginia State championships for the lower boats on Saturday and my boat got 2nd of 13. They did really well and I was pleased. Went to Colleen's new house in Alexandria for a Derby party. Risa visited today and we went for pedicures and ice cream. Now we're vegging out while it rains and doing a puzzle. Very exciting lives. I'm trying to elevate my feet since I think they're a little puffy from being up and around so much more than usual.

I'm geting a little more uncomfortable as I get into 34 weeks, but it's not always and a lot less today even than yesterday. Just crowded internally generally and some back/rib pain. But I feel good now. Got doctor on Wednesday. I will get back to the gym and see if that helps at all. Seems contrary, but moving is good for me. He's still moving a lot. I've gained almost 30 pounds and I'm feeling that a bit, more when clothes don't fit as opposed to when I try to do stuff. I'm not extra clumsy or off balanced, just less flexible at times.

Rick is planning on leaving Thursday to drive cross country.

end of April

Birthday was good and uneventful as they tend to be. Rick got me a big gift certificate to the Ritz spa and a bag of tootsie rolls from Bobby. First gift in a while, but he didn't need to/shouldn't have. Went out to dinner at California Tortilla and enjoyed the nice outside. None of the teams knew it was my birthday so nothing special.

Kid is doing great, just trying to get him big and fat. Rick is probably getting sick of me making him feel the kid move.

On better news - we found a place to live. It's in Courthouse in Arlington. It's 2-3 miles from our current place but across the river. It's in a big apartment building with no character and in Virginia (my only complaints) but otherwise it's perfect. It has a 24 hour doorman and a pool and garage parking. A bit roomier than any thing else we saw. Right next to the bank, CVS, movie theater, post office, metro, ez food and bars.

This might work for a day or two: http://washingtondc.craigslist.org/nva/apa/1142515871.html

33 weeks

Getting closer and more real. I have gained about 6 pounds in what feels like a week. I am constantly overeating. I'm a little troubled by it since it's going to my arms and thighs. Maybe now that it's hot, my appetite will be less. It's not that I'm that hungry, I just slipped into having no discipline and eating a lot of crap. And, I thought a June baby would spare me from 90+ degree weather. Sheesh.

This just in, Rick went running while I went to a barbeque and overate (again) and when I got home, I weighed 1 pound more than him. He hadn't eaten yet, so it's close, but I'll definitely get him by the end easily.

Hmmm

When do I get to park in the special expecting/mothers parking space?

baby writings

a link for my sisters to read and comment on:
http://warner.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/04/02/why-i-dumped-the-pump/
NY Times is an interesting forum to get this info because they're some liberal crazies, but also generally working moms, but also a lot of well to do, so comments are interesting.

Also, I think Elizabeth should move to Canada or France for the next kid. Or at least watch Michael Moores Sicko, it is interesting how messed up our child care and insurance systems are here, but he's just a propaganda-ist and Rick would never talk to you again if you spewed it back.

Finally, is anyone watching Jon and Kate plus 8? Well I was, but now I'm boycotting it. It's gotten ridiculous. I don't know if they're exploiting their kids but Kate is a nut and too high strung and i don't like her mothering style and they're making so much money from TLC, it's just gross. She's so mean to Jon and makes the kids all scared and she drives me crazy. Plus they have so much help and are somehow super busy despite not working. Enough.

Tuesday

Another dreary day here. I got practice done early and went back to bed but I was still tired. I got in a workout and then had my massage - Thank you Roseann. It was nice, but I really want to lie on my stomach and have someone just crank on my back. I lay on my side and it was good, but i never relax because I keep thinking "I don't want this to be over, I don't want this to end" and it's just never long enough. I think I'm going to treat myself later this month at the Ritz spa next door. It's a real relaxing setting and the same price as Elizabeth Arden or the small salons in Gtown.

Still not sold on my decision to go to Las Vegas. Carolyn's OB doesn't take my insurance. I guess I don't want change, but know it will better after a week of readjustment or so.

Diabetes test was negative.

So, still a little bothered, but not stressed, just procrastinating. Staying in this place until April 30, then worrying about May later. I'm pretty sure I'll move, but a lot of me would just rather not change anything midstream. I guess it's too late for that.

I have been dealing with a major gas bubble for like 3 hours. Don't have to toot or burp, but I got to shake this out somehow. If this is what little babies go through, I feel for them.

Tomorrow I have really early practice, then I'm going to workout and nap and get a massage. If it's not raining I'll go see the Cherry Blossom trees, or catch a movie if it is. As I was walking around smelling all the flowers, I sort of would wish my heightened sense of smell would stay, but then I walk by a smoker and that changes my mind.

Case of the Mondays

A little stressful this weekend, over thinking the future etc, but now my third semester pain is kicking in. I'm not sleeping well from 3-6am, constantly tossing and turning, probably my bodys way telling me to stop sleeping the way I am - on my back, right side etc. So now I'm feeling pain in my lower ribs on my back. subtle, but annoying and I can't stretch it out. I think it will pass in a few days and my new shape takes form.

Nothing new going on, but I figured I'd blog just because. I like reading everyone elses and keeping current. Still don't have my glucose test results, they're supposed to be online, not that i know what i was looking at short of yay/nay. Baby is kicking pretty well. I've only worked out 5 times in the last two weeks, just don't feel like it. He is also more active when I'm not, but there's got a be a balance. You can also see my tummy move from the outside. It's pretty funny. I think he's flipping over, because the kicks are less in my pelvis and more level with my belly button.

I'm really glad we put together the basketball pool. I hate the Memphis/Duke etc all went out but it makes for some good games. I think there could be a UNC - UofL final.

So like I said I like to blog sometimes because it allows me to get thoughts out to you all. That being said, as I prepare for this huge change in my life, I have a lot of thoughts. Some are irrational and most are just thoughts. I know I'm not going to be alone, but of course it crossed my mind. I know Rick will be here as will Mom. Assuming it's here. My sisters are being so helpful and kind and I really appreciate it and feel more prepared having talked to hem so much.

So options are:

• Move West May 1st. Drive across country with Rick, stay in LV. Deliver there. Rick can visit from Carlsbad often. Not an option really that early. I plan on coaching thru May 20.
• Move west May 20. Same thing but hurry out there somewhere 8.5 months pregnant. Someone would have to drive with me. We would need to find a rental place and he would leave in September, therefore I move again. I know that area is probably amazing and I could keep busy, but why not stay where I know it and like it.
• Deliver here. stay here as long as I want.
• Move to Greensboro whenever. Deliver there or move after birth.

I know I can shack up with the kid in GSO, or Chapel Hill or LV or even San Mateo and Timberlake. Timing is going to be whatever I want and I feel like if I don't like something - too bored, for example. I can move. I really do want to stay in DC, but it is a bit overwhelming winging it long term, basically alone.

I have lots of options and a wonderful family and am honestly not worried. I like my alone time and am rather self sufficient. I know I don't know what I'm up for and want help for sure, but we are not poor or alone, so it will be fine. I just need to make up my mind and keep health insurance active basically.

Have a great weekend all.

28 weeks

of course, nothing to report. Had my glucose test to see how well my pregnant body handles glucose. I'm going to go out on a limb and say fairly well. The horrible flat orange soda has been replaced by some strong fruit punch Gatorade like mix, i had no problem downing it. I literally had nothing to say to him. Its been a super easy 4 weeks since my last visit. I gained 4 pounds. My BP is 111/60, The heart rate sounded good. He was kicking while I was in the waiting room. I asked for another ultrasound, doc said no need. :( I really want to see him. He said they don't worry until 34+ weeks if the kid is breech. He measured me, I was perfect of course. Told me to take a childbirth class and find a pediatrician. End of appointment. Test results online by the end of the week. I do go back in two weeks though. We must be in the tail end of this thing.

In other news, Rick has to do his training at Camp Pendelton in California beginning early May. This sucks a lot. We thought it could be Camp Lejune in NC, in which case I would have considered delivering in Greensboro so I could see him regularly and it would be easy for him to get to me in labor and his paternity leave. Now he has to fly etc. I had to look up where it even is. About half way between LA and San Diego. Maybe I could go stay with Judy M. He thinks it would be easy for me to be in Las Vegas, but that's a good 5 hour drive which he's not doing Friday night and cutting into a large chunk of Saturday. I'm pretty upset and he is too, but this means he's training for Iraq which is much safer than Afghanistan, so there's one plus. But I pretty much am sure I'll be all alone in labor and have to take a taxi to the hospital. And I thought shopping for a wedding dress by myself was lonely.

27 weeks

Rickism: "now you can scratch the sides of your belly"

Nothing new to report. Lots of movement. I'm tired again, but I think that's because we stay up too late doing our puzzle and I've started morning practices, so it's hard to motivate in the middle of the day. I'm glad Rick doesn't care I'm a bum, lunch and dinner are served and eventually laundry gets done, some housekeeping is falling though. Oh well.

i'm very glad our NCAA pool got kicked off. It will be fun to follow the standings. I think everyone picked UNC. I went with UofL and think they can do it.

Fail.

Remember this?

So I finally ordered my POD storage box moved from Kansas City to DC area. I was kicking myself enough already because if I ended up doing it at all this year and on March 12, I should have done it September 10, or even January 10, but I last the whole winter without my coats, Danskos and worst of all - coaching clothes, boots and tools. So we went out there, only about 10 miles - still inside the beltway, but a good 35 minutes to get there. No big deal, they have it pulled out of the giant warehouse and we can get in. It cost me money to move it but I can access it all I want there, or they can bring it to my sidewalk if I wanted to unload it. So long story short - I had it packed so full and the boxes I needed were so deep, I got nothing but a box of tide and a snow scraper out of it. I had boxes at the far back, behind desks, chairs, bikes and all things awkward. (see below picture with 6 more dining room chairs, coffee table, desks, bikes, bed frames jammed in there) We could have unloaded the whole thing but it was raining so we didn't want to take it all out just to get to some stuff I have lived without this long. It was crushing because I was SO excited to have my survival suit for Monday practice since it's cold here. 40 this morning on the boat got chilly. I was unreasonably excited to have my bib overalls and all weather uggs. So much so I might have to get a milkshake. Bobby didn't give up anything for Lent.

That's the highlight of the weekend. Going to watch basketball now and do a puzzle. It's rainy, may head up to the gym if I can motivate. No plans tonight or tomorrow.

It's high school spring break, week 1 of 2 so afternoons with them only, next week 2 a days then we race on the 28th. UNC and Duke also come up that weekend to race GU/GW on Saturday and GMU on Sunday if anyone wants to visit.

Clothing

So I bought some more maternity clothes online. Mostly $10-12 Gap and ON tees since they are comfy and its going to be getting warm soon but I also bought some jeans since Elizabeths handmedowns are a couple inches short in the leg, how does that happen? I got a pair at Target which I love but I dont want to wear them to coach in since they are my 'nice jeans.' So I wanted a more casual longer pair, I bought two at $25. One size 10 and one large thinking I could layer and they're not for fashion, anyways, the 10s are boot cut (good), low rise (bad) and tight! Am I that fat? I don't think so, I could wear them, but they're now more going out jeans than launch jeans. Sheesh. The larges are so big, they're almost sinched at the waist because there's so much fabric. I might keep them for month 9, but the roll top isn' t very tight. I can't get this right at all. Elizabeths jeans are M, L and 10 and I can wear them all. My Liz Langes might even be 8s. This is quite a pain. Good thing most of my time is in yoga pants.

I'm pretty sure I had Oreos and Applesauce for dinner last night. Oops.

So while feeling perfect, I would like to feel the kid kick more. I don't know what is normal. This worries me a lot but I guess he takes after Rick and just likes to sleep. a lot.

6 Months

I can't believe we're 2/3 of the way there. Starting 26 weeks, I can pretty much say I feel perfect. Almost not pregnant. Getting a little big but not enough to really impact my movements, just a bit.

Also I have decided that life is too short and I am going to eat several donuts today. I don't think pregnancy is a time to pig out, quite the contrary - you should eat healthy and not junk at all, but I love donuts and haven't had one forever so I'm endulging. The rest of the week I try to be better and will stay away from ice cream for Lent since the chocolate/sweets part has already been blown. I have no discipline when it comes to my sweet tooth.

Snow Day

So March 1st and we got a good 6" of the really fluffy stuff and it's still coming down like a snow globe. Rick went to work and judging from the lack of footprints in the courtyard, he's the only one moving in the development. I'm sort of upset he went, but he's right in that the Marines in his office will probably be there, although they are on a 2 hour delay. There's no one on the roads and all the schools are closed, so maybe he can come home early. All the civilian bums are definitely not working but we have no excuse, I just wish we were closer to a metro (15 min. walk) since it's 20 degrees with 20 mph+ winds.

The guys the HOA hires to shovel and salt decided to start at 3:30am and get the first layer of snow up and then they were back by our window at 5:30 or so. Those plastic shovels make a lot of noise, so it's lucky everyone else is sleeping in.

For Allison

I am happy. Just thought you all should know that. It was a good day. Most of the time I am paranoid and worried as hell on the inside (and I still am) but I am in a good mood. I was told I had a pregnant glow today - granted it was in a dark room and came no later than 10 minutes after being told I looked tired! Had an average doctors appointment, nice workout, good practice, and great yoga class. And am making pancakes for dinner and Rick is getting Outback takeout. My chi and chakras are zen and balanced or something like that.

Until at least I get grumpy from not having enough refined sugar.

Lent

I am giving up sweets for lent. Or going to try really hard. they are nutritionally void and wasted calories for me and baby so when the sweet tooth kicks in, I'm going to try to have yogurt or fruit or chocolate milk. No ice cream, cookies, pudding, candy, donuts...Wish me luck.

24 weeks full report

Absolutely nothing to report. Sorry folks. Waited in the waiting room for about 40 minutes, then in the exam room for another 5-10. That is why I get afternoon appointments. My weight is up, about 5 pounds more than my at home weigh in. But I genuinely don't care what the number is. BP is 120/80, so normal but I think high for me, but it's about right. I had a 3rd year student examine me, which meant talking to me and that's about it. Doc came in and measured my fundal height which was 23-24, so right on track. Baby heart rate was good around 150 I think he said. Diabetes test next time.

Children

We had a great visit with Elizabeth and the boys. It was actually a lot of fun and fairly easy and low key. It makes me realize how unprepared and clueless I am but I'll be fine. I'm just really slow and awkward at most things and although far from a neat freak, I can't stand the messes that happen soo fast with a toddler. I mean wow. Hopefully Elizabeth will post the photos from her camera. The highlights were probably the escalator at the museum, bowling and the bouncy house. He's also not bad at the Wii Fit - skiing and heading soccer balls. It is motivation to live in a warm climate year round.

5 Months

22 weeks, about 18 pounds gained.

5 Months

I think I am over my mayonnaise thing.

Rick told me he thinks I already look full on 9 months pregnant. He has no idea.

I am addicted to feeling him kick. It doesn't feel like a kick but the movement makes me happy. He so far is not a morning person.

I registered this morning, if you can call it that. I had NO idea what i was doing. I think I got a lot of blankets. there is no theme of any sort. Or, you could say, there are several. I guess I'll be spending a lot of time fixing it online.

Status

21 weeks. approx 15 pounds gained. i might be feeling some flutters, but they feel more like my tummy is grumbling than anything else. i am calling that baby kicks because it makes me feel better and i panic less. it's irregular but i try to pay attention to it every day and it seems to be early afternoon and just before bed when i get it the most. I have shifted to pregnancy pants and sweats/yoga pants entirely and am slowly moving towards tops, they are way comfy but i can pull off some regular shirts still. I hate all my tshirts though. I feel huge. Much better this week mentally, I don't know if I've adjusted or was just bloated and pudgy last week. Lifting weights and yoga is helping i think.

pregnancy symptoms i do not have that i read about

• heart burn
• constipation
• aches/pains/leg cramps
• snoring (okay maybe a little)
• good skin/hair/nails
• bad skin
• cravings
• varicose veins
• swollen feet etc.

i guess they are all worse case scenario. i will admit to an enhanced mole (more raised) and maybe a few more popped up on my torso. And maybe some gas, (but what's new?)

next focus: Do i need to take a childbirth education case? My dr. has mentioned this twice. I think watching a Baby Story and Bringing home Baby has prepared me enough. Am I going to get stretch marks? How do I find a pediatrician?

Worst Case Scenario

If we're really unlucky...

workouts

i think i have to stop running, i have sooo much pressure on my bladder all the time, and exercising just exaggerates it, even when it's totally empty. i'm running slow and my heart rate is lower than other things but it's not comfortable, so i'm bummed about that. also get it while rowing, so i do that less, and am watching other things that compress me down low.

i am super emotional today, no reason why at all. maybe cabin fever. i feel like i could cry at any minute. we had 2" of snow yesterday, then some ice. i started to pack up the house in case rick gets this job, but now i think i'll just go back to bed. might go see the Reader, but there is free prenatal yoga up the road that would start before the movie gets out.

20 weeks

Still nothing special going on. I have the most laid back doctor. I guess that's good though. I sort of try to exaggerate symptoms and such just to get some attention, but he just says it's all par for the course. I think i'm too heavy, he's fine with it. Just eat well, high fiber, low fat. He's not worried I haven't felt him move. He's not worried about any cramping or anything. So it really is the easiest pregnancy ever. I'm very spoiled and maybe should be worried about the second half.

I think I have a food thing finally. I don't crave it, but everytime I make Rick a sandwich, I want to eat mayonaise right out of the jar. It smells so good and I often lick the knife. YUM!

Musings

So i have all these thoughts running through my head and i don't even know if they're blog worthy, but why not. It's really a journal for me, for whatever reason, right? I started drafting this on 1/6, but really posted 1/24 or so.

So, we found out at 19 weeks, it's a boy. Now i wish I didn't know, but the result was still the same. It was important not to be bummed out if a girl popped out and now, we can plan and decorate. Which leads us to step 2. the whole, uh oh, we don't even have a good place to live or have a nursery. not sweating that yet though. We should know by this week, Jan 30, if we stay in DC or not. yikes.

No movement yet. Which makes us freak out, but I know he's hardy, but it would make me feel better to know I haven't killed him. No popcorn or butterfly sensations. Just gas and grumbling. I have a 20 week check up on Tuesday, it should be routine.

I have had more pains as the abdomen stretches (round ligament pain) but nothing serious. I never got why they say don't lie on your back, but now I do. It just wasn't at 16 weeks, it's uncomfy because my back arches. The left side is even better than the right for whatever reason. It also feels like I've had lap band surgery. My organs are just squished and I get really full and uncomfortable if I eat a lot.

I feel very big and I never thought I'd have a problem with that, but it is hard to let myself go. And then I feel way too big for 20 weeks, and think that I am going to get big. I am a huge fan of the cotton pregnancy pants. I pretty much live in them around the house. I wore some prego jeans out but they were drooping. I bought a belly band, but don't love it yet. I can still button up my jeans, so I just do that, and unbutton them if I have to sit for a long time.

The biggest developments of late are a skin tag. Look it up, or don't actually. It's gross and benign and I'm not going into that. And also that I fainted at my sonogram. Totally normal, not good, but apparently happens to others while at Target and the grocery store. I was lying down and getting uncomfortable since she was taking forever, then I even rolled on my side, and I thought I'd be fine since i was lying down, but got really hot and nauseous, then went out for a few seconds. Baby didn't even know, just a blood pressure issue. Body needs more blood but it doesn't get more ability to circulate it. So it was pooling down in my lower half and couldn't make it back up. I still feel really fit and am in a good place and have good flexibility and balance so I'm just being aware of over doing it at all.

We're starting to tell people slowly. I just don't know how, but everyone is super happy for us. I wish we had a better picture to put on facebook but he just wasn't face up or still so it's just word of mouth then...