The Golden Rod's Journey

Holy crow, she's 2!

2011-06-16T21:19:00.000-07:00

Bridget turned two last week. Where does the time go?

Happy birthday baby girl! We love you so much and can't wait to watch you learn and grow more every day.

We had a bubble theme birthday party. Fun and easy.

I got tons of wands and containers and we set up bubble machines in the yard.

The kids played for HOURS with all of the bubbles.

All the food was round.

Bridget's cake was from the awesome Retro Bakery who we have had for all of Bridget's milestones.

Blowing out her candle like a pro!


Nana and Papa got her a "computer" which is apparently the coolest thing ever for Bridget.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-04-06T16:12:00.000-07:00

I started a new blog

2011-04-05T15:27:00.000-07:00

Come join me if you wish.
http://fivehappythoughts.blogspot.com/
Now, I know what you're thinking. I can't keep up with this blog so why start another, right? Well, it's just what felt like the right thing to do. So I did. :)

Wordless Wednesday

2011-03-23T20:15:00.000-07:00

We're getting "old"

2011-03-22T15:30:00.000-07:00

Mike's 30th birthday was last weekend. He was freaking out about it for weeks leading up to it. Since it was such a big deal for him, I didn't do any of the "traditional" 30th birthday hoopla and we just had a pretty quiet day with Bridget.

This was Mike's cake. He's not a fan of cake in general but LOVES these cheese filled coffee cake things. So, happy birthday morning to Mike! (As an aside, Bridget has since been asking for cake every morning for breakfast. She thought it was the best thing ever!)

These were Daddy's gifts. Bridget colored packing paper with her markers. I think it makes for pretty festive wrapping.

Later in the weekend, two of our very good friends J & S had us over for a celebration dinner. They surprised us all with decorations and gifts. Such sweet and giving people. Bridget was in heaven with all the balloons.

S is an amazing cook. We had red wine and gorgonzola filet with mashed potatoes and broccoli. For dessert...

...the most amazing cheesecake I've ever eaten. Seriously. It was Neapolitan, people. Layers of chocolate, strawberry, and vanilla deliciousness all topped with fresh strawberries and chocolate sauce! The night ended with laughing and visiting around the fire pit before we headed home. Such a great night and Mike has transitioned to a "grown-up" pretty well. I'm only six months behind...

Have you heard of Dr. Jean?

2011-03-17T15:37:00.000-07:00

I had not heard of Dr. Jean Feldman until a few weeks ago. A friend who is a Pre-K/Special K teacher sent me a message and asked if I would be going to the DR. Jean concert at the library. My answer: Who? So I was sent to Dr. Jean's site* and found out that although I didn't know of her specifically, I definitely knew her work. I have used her cheers in my classroom for years and the kids always LOVED it. (seriously, check out her site and you'll find some great ones)

Anyway, since Bridget and I didn't have any plans, we went off across town to see Dr. Jean. And I'm soooooooo glad we did. Bridget had an absolute blast and I cracked up watching how much fun the entire audience had. My favorite part was the Tooty Ta**. Please, please PLEASE look this up if you don't know it. It's totally worth it. I don't think you can truly realize how absolutely hilarious it can be to watch 150+ kids spinning in circles with their thumbs up, elbows back, knees together, bottoms up, tongue out, and eyes closed singing the song. I'm still laughing just thinking about it. Bridget's favorite was the Alligator Chant which I can't really seem to find a good video of. The girl is completely enthralled by alligators (but that's a whole different post).

I'm so glad that we live in a city where our library district is able to offer these shows to us. Especially when they can offer them for free. I'm so fortunate that I have been able to take this bit of unexpected time off with Bridget to do these things. Although life is far from perfect, days like this make it a bit brighter.

Bridget and Dr. Jean. Really, Bridget was happy. But she was also tired.

*If you go to her site right now, pictures from her visit to Vegas on on the front page. Bridget and I are front row, center section. Can you spot us?

**I have no idea how long this song has been around. The first time I heard/participated in this song was High School Key Club. Seriously, it was run by our crazy (but hilarious) chemistry teacher and she had a whole group of high school kids doing this utterly childish dance and cracking the heck up. Ah, high school. How fond a few of my memories are of you...

Wordless Wednesday

2011-03-16T14:29:00.000-07:00

Fooooood!

2011-03-10T16:06:00.000-08:00

Today, I'm going to share with you something that has been a great addition to my life lately. About 6 months ago, we started using a co-op for our fruits and veggies. I really wanted to start eating healthier AND try new things (anyone else feeling this way?). I was spending so much every week on produce that I was getting frustrated (anyone else feeling THIS way?).

Then, a friend told me about Bountiful Baskets. They are AWESOME! Unlike other co-ops I've heard about, with Bountiful Baskets you pay each week. It's only $15 and I get a large basket of various fruits and another of veggies. They offer an organic basket for $25 every other week, but we've never tried it.

Anyway, here's what it looks like every Saturday when we go to get our yummy produce.

You check in and they send you off to your baskets. It's so exciting. It's almost like Christmas wondering what you're going to get that week.

Bridget likes to run ahead and look in other people's baskets. We keep telling her it's all the same, but she LOVES looking at everything. She also LOVES to help us move everything from our baskets to our box to take home.

Here's a pic of the baskets we got a few months ago. This is pretty typical of the variety we get.

Veggie basket. Lettuce, acorn squash, celery, corn on the cob, brussels sprouts, and I'm pretty sure there were sweet potatoes, and a butternut squash under there, too. I owe this basket for my new found love of brussels sprouts. Wash 'em, cut 'em in half, and roast them in the oven with olive oil and S&P. Yum!

And our fruit basket. Grapes, apples, pears, bananas, and persimmons. There were oranges under there as well. Many times there's a pineapple in there, too. This is the week I learned that persimmons are not to the liking of anyone in my family. Whenever we get them now, Mike trades them with a lady at his work for more bananas or apples.

Anyway, I thought I'd share in case some of you have been looking for something similar. Bountiful Baskets are available over here in quite a few states out west.

Do any of you have ways that you get healthy, new foods into your family? Any other great tips of tricks?

Oh, and FYI, this was not paid for in any way. I just really like this things and figured some of you might want to know about it as well. Yaaaay!

wordless wednesday

2011-03-09T21:02:00.000-08:00

A PSA from me to you.

2011-03-05T21:09:00.000-08:00

Ok, this is serious folks. A friend posted this video on Facebook and I thought it was important enough to share with you guys. Please keep you and yours safe. (You'll need to pause the music on the blog).

"Where do you get your news?"

2011-03-02T15:40:00.000-08:00

A friend asked this of me awhile ago. My first thought was, "I don't." Then, after thinking about it for bit, the truthful answer is... Facebook and my iPhone. Although I know I can't make up for that statement, please allow me to explain.

Here's the thing. The news is depressing. I have quite enough drama and depression going on in my own little life, thank-you-very-much, to deal with more that I can't do anything about. If I watch the news, I feel that I need to have some emotion for every story and I just don't have that emotional wealth to share. Much less do I have any ACTUAL wealth to share. As much as I would LOVE to contribute funds to the myriad of natural disaster relief funds, I just don't have anything to spare.
So, I choose not to watch any news at all. I don't watch CNN, MSNBC, my local evening news, FOX news (*shudder*), or whatever else is out there.

Instead, I watch Facebook. I have several friends who are news buffs and post about the important goings-on in the world. I figure if several of them post about the same thing in one day, I should probably familiarize myself with it. Some days I learn about pop culture and others I learn real headline news, such as the Union issues in Wisconsin, the rebellion in Egypt, or the earthquake in New Zealand. And then there are days when I get a bit of both. I think those are my favorite. Take this NY Times article about how pizzas are being delivered to the Wisconsin protesters from all over the world. Kinda gives you the warm fuzzies, right?

If I do decide that I MUST have a dose of actual news to feel connected to the world, I have the NPR app on my phone. I think it's brilliant. I love NPR and find then to be the least biased source of news for me. With the app, I can scan the headlines and choose what I think is important to know. I can also bypass the things that are just too much to handle at any particular time. PLUS, I can fit in my news while standing in line or watching a show with Bridget.

So there you have it. I'm a horrible person who can't stand to hear about the fifth murder in a row or the ten car pileup that left several people seriously injured. I don't want to know over and over and over again that there is still fighting in the middle east. I love and respect our soldiers but I know it's terrible wherever they are and I don't want to know the details. Sorry.

What about you? Where do you get your news? Please tell me I'm not the only one out there that doesn't keep CNN on all day.

Blooming Bridget

2011-02-07T11:35:00.000-08:00

So, I think I'm going to start documenting some of the things we're doing around these parts for Bridget's learning time. I like to think of it as "Blooming Bridget" time. It's when she shows me the amazing things that she can do and starts to blossom into an awesome little thinker (among other things).

Now, we're just starting to do a somewhat structured (in that I have a plan for what I'd like to expose her to that day) learning time. I'd love to be able to look back in later years and see what Bridget was learning and doing at this time in her life. So, welcome to the first of the Blooming Bridget posts!

This is Bridget with an absolutely fabulous sensory tub we won through a giveaway with Time for Tots etsy shop. If you have young learners, please check out her shop. I think I'm in love and would go broke buying up her entire inventory if I could. I can't even tell you how much I (and Bridget) love this tub! Check out all the fun things Bridget got to explore...

Beads, erasers, presents, foam snowflakes, bells, colored rice, shiny stuff, and a DUCK! Bridget absolutely loved playing with everything and was fascinated with the using the tongs to pick things up. After these pictures, we covered everything up and played treasure hunt looking for all of the letters. We must have played and learned with this for at least a half hour before she was finished. Seriously awesome. Bridget will now ask to "play rice" and will get her yellow play blanket, bring it into the kitchen, and wait for me to set everything up for her. After a month of playing with this set, I have decided that Bridget needs a new set each month. These sensory tubs work on so many developmental needs and are so much fun!

I'll show you what we have for February in another post. ;)

She amazes me...

2010-12-27T13:43:00.000-08:00

Every.Single.Day. Be warned, this is a blog post for me to put down some of the things I don't want to forget that Bridget is doing at 18 months.

Bridget is amazing to me. I can't believe that she's a part of Mike and me some days. She's so smart and seems to learn something new every day. Some of her newest developments:

*She is really grasping ASL now.
*Her favorite show is Signing Time on PBS. We have all learned so much from it. Animals, family members, manners, food, toys. It's great!
*She recognizes any letter in sign or print.
*Same with her numbers to 10.
*She can count out loud to 13.
*A few days ago, she put together words in sign to make a sentence using no voice. She said, "Please Daddy cheese" asking Mike to cut her off some cheese. We were so proud of her!
*She knows most of her body parts and LOVES to sing "Head, Shoulders, Knees, and Toes."
*She builds block towers and then laughs maniacally when she knocks them down.
*She still loves to read.
*She helps clean up and put things away. Her favorite "game" is to get something from Mommy and bring it to Daddy to put away. We do this often when emptying the dishwasher (Mommy's least favorite chore).
*She repeats pretty much any new word she hears. Daddy has had to start being REALLY careful with his words. It has also really made me realize how often I say some things as I now hear them out of her mouth. Most often heard: "Oh boy!" when she's excited, "mm hmm" (with a higher pitch at the end) in confirmation of anything, and yelling the names of the animals (oops).
*Dancing, singing, laughing, coloring, puzzles, and just learning about life.

There's so much more but I'll leave it at that for now. I can't believe how much she's grown. She's such a little girl now and not a baby anymore. I love it but it's a little bittersweet.

Coming clean

2010-12-17T17:05:00.000-08:00

Alright, this here blog has been neglected long enough. It's time for me to just get the big stuff out in the open so I don't feel like I'm hiding things and can get back to my regular posts with random bits of crappiness thrown in. I'm going to work in bullet points because it seems the best way to keep from the total crazy ramblings going on in my head.

*First and foremost, know that we are all healthy. Aside from the random cough/cold/flu type stuff, we're all good.

*Biggest stress right now: our home. We're losing it. There are many, many reasons for this and it's extremely stressful and heartbreaking. Adding to this stress is the fact that we're so up in the air about it all right now. We don't know how long we'll be able to stay in the house before they foreclose on us. We also don't know where we're going to go after they do. HUGE STRESS!

*A very close second stress: money. Isn't it always? As of right now, Mike is the only one in our home working. I resigned from the school district last year as we were planning to move this past summer. That fell through and so I am without a job. *sigh* So now, were in the position of me needing to find a job that makes it worth it for me to go back to work and put Bridget in daycare again. This is NOT easy in today's economy.

Ok, so that's out. There are several other stresses going on but they fall far behind after these two. I'm not posting this for any kind of pity or fix-it solutions, but just to get it out there so that I can move on and start spending my brain power on something a bit more productive than constant worry. *sigh*

And now, just to end on a positive note and because I never did post about Bridget's first trick or treating, here's the best shot I got of her in her costume. Isn't she the cutest butterfly?

An autumn update...with VIDEOS!

2010-10-30T21:43:00.000-07:00

We've been having fun so far this Fall. This is my favorite type of year and I'm having so many new and exciting adventures around here. Tonight, I'm posting a few videos that make me smile.

Some days she'll count all the way from 0 to 9. If I write them down, she'll do it every time. This absolutely amazes me! I think it's from Mike playing with the foam numbers every night at bath time.

Bubbles! And Grammi has a great backyard to run around and chase them in. Now if only we could get rid of the poisonous oleander bushes!

I hope you're smiling! Happy Fall everyone. Coming soon... Pumpkin patch and first Trick-or-Treating pictures!

Your science lesson for the day

2010-10-12T20:39:00.000-07:00

Putting your iPod into the bathroom sink basin* while it's playing your favorite internet radio station makes it loud enough that you can continue to sing along while you shower. Just thought you might want to know.

* Just make sure it's dry. I don't think you'll get the same results if it's full of water. :)

A problem with children's books (Part 2)

2010-10-09T23:12:00.000-07:00

I love this book. Really, I do. I actually love this series of books. We found the Shapes and Numbers books at the library and have checked them out twice now. What I love about these books is that they use real life objects to show where things appear in every day life. This has helped me work with Bridget's vocabulary while having fun.

"What color is the flower?"

Why yes, it's red! And see the other great examples? They're all labeled as well. It's so great!

Then you go thorough blue and green and yellow.

Then, there's the last page.

What color is the...orange?

Well duh, it's orange! We had to show an orange AND orange juice? Has no one ever heard of a carrot?

So much time, so little blogging

2010-10-09T22:02:00.000-07:00

Seriously people, I have no excuse for not blogging. I've just been avoiding it. We've got a lot going on here (nothing too exciting, believe me) and it's just been taking all of my energy to handle it. Hopefully it will all be solved by the end of the month and then I can get back to blogging.

I'm actually kinda mad at myself for not keeping up with this because really, this is how I document the things Bridget is doing. I'm terrible at getting things written into her baby book, I start with great intentions but, eh, it just never gets done.

So, here's a quick update on us (only the good parts):

Bridget is more and more brilliant every day. I know all parents say that, but she amazes me with something new all the time! She talks up a storm. She knows most of her colors, how to count to 3 (and she can get most of the numbers through 10 with help), loves playing "in and out" with her toys, can sort her shapes into the right holes on her sorting toy, and knows about 10 signs. And she loves to eat! She climbs up into her highchair and sits patiently while we get her in and give her food. Her favorites are bananas (NAAAAAANAAAAAAAAA!!!), cheerios (chee-o), cheddar bunnies (bunneee), waffles (waffu), dried fruit (which are all called apple (apoo) by Bridget), cheese (which she signs), and pasta (pa-taaa in a whispery voice). Oh, and cookies (coo-coo), which to Bridget is anything sweet that she likes. She eats tons of other stuff that she doesn't have words for like oatmeal, pickles, and PB&J sandwiches.

My big news is that I am a stay at home mom. Woohoo! I am loving it. However, this is what's leading to a bunch of issues here in our home. It was pretty unplanned for me to be a SAHM but we're making the best of the situation. It's been great to have the time to bring Bridget to have new experiences and watch her enjoy being, well, her.

We've gone to the park and played on the slides and in the water features.

We went to the children's museum and played with the fruits and veggies (which I was surprised she could mostly name). (Oh, and horrible picture of her -sorry about that)

And we played with the balls in the simple machines room. Bridget had an absolute BLAST putting the balls into this things and watching them go through the twists and turns.

Mike is working and hoping to be up for a new position soon. I'm keeping my fingers crossed for this as it will help lift the pressure off of him and I think he'll be happier working with computers again.

If you made it this far thorough my ramblings, congrats! That's all from here for now. I'm not making any promises, but hopefully I'll be able to get myself to post a bit more soon. Thanks for sticking with me!

A problem with children's books (Part 1)

2010-08-11T12:09:00.000-07:00

Ok, so we're a big reading family here. I read, Mike reads, and Bridget "reads" tons of books. This is how she keeps herself entertained if left for longer than 5 minutes on her own.

I have found, however, that not all children's books are thought through very well. Not to say they are bad books, but there's just something about them that shows the author/illustrator/editor wasn't really thinking that day. I submit to you the following:

This is one of Bridget's favorite books to read on her own. As it states, it is a book about shapes, colors, and opposite with things hidden behind flaps for her to pull up and down and all that fun stuff.*

This is what the book looks like inside. See, all cutely labeled and simply worded. Perfect for little ones. But let us look behind the rock at what Mr. Bear sees, shall we?

He sees a... What? Is that really what I think it is?

Why yes, Mr. Bear does see a PINK ELEPHANT. Has he been drinking some fermented berries? Really Mr. (or Ms.) Questionable-Author/Illustrator-Who-Is-Not-Listed-Anywhere-On-The-Book?** You couldn't have chosen anything else to show the color pink? A flamingo maybe? A piece of bubblegum? No, we're going with a pink elephant.

And in case you're wondering, all the other stuff is normal. A yellow plane. A gray mouse. A green cactus. It's just the pink elephant.

Here's a little heads up on pink elephants in case you don't know. Or haven't seen Dumbo and weren't scared out of your wits by this scene when you were little.***

Disney's Dumbo: Pink Elephants on Parade

What about you? Have you guys found any weird stuff in your kids toys or books? I have a few others I'll be sharing in a few days.

*As an aside, I wish I could explain how thick this thing is. Seriously, it's like, the War and Peace of board books. I just counted and the thing has 40 pages! (20 turnable sheets) We've never made it past page 30, just FYI.

**Really, I just searched. The only thing listed is a publishing company in Belgium. Maybe pink elephants there mean something else?

***Please tell me I'm not the only one that was scared and confused about this scene? Seriously, thinking back on Dumbo there are just so many things wrong there. Don't even get me started on the whole "waiting on the stork" issue at the beginning.

New blog

2010-07-31T18:14:00.000-07:00

Hey all, I have a new(ish) blog that I plan to start posting on regularly. This one will still get some posts, but I plan on using this one more often. If you want, follow along on our journeys with Little Miss as she enters into toddlerhood. Hope to see you all there!

My brilliant idea

2010-07-09T10:05:00.000-07:00

Ok, so Bridget loves toast. She also loves fruit. So, brilliant me thought, "Hey, let's give her some toast with jelly!" Um, yeah. I don't think I can even describe the sticky mess that ensued (although I'm sure most of you can imagine.) That was a few weeks ago and she hasn't had jelly since. Until today, when I had another brilliant idea.
A while ago, Baby in the Kitchen posted about "dippy eggs" and how dipping teaches hand eye coordination and strengthens the pincer grasp. I have yet to make dippy eggs for Bridget (mostly because I can't stand the smell of hard boiled eggs. Blech!). I really wanted to do this for Bridget, but due to the smell issue, I just couldn't. Then I had an idea! I could make "dippy toast."
I put some fruit preserve into a small bowl, heated it up until it was liquidy, and then let Bridget dip her toast in it. She LOVED it! She "got it" so quickly. I guided her hand once or twice and then she was all over dipping all by herself (genius I tell ya!) And although there was still some stickiness, it was much more manageable because she's a pretty dainty little eater and only got the preserves on the tips of her fingers as they dipped the toast. It was awesome! I think this may become a regular part of breakfast.

Completely unrelated: This is my 200th post! Yippie!

Oh my gosh, my baby is a year old!

2010-06-19T22:05:00.000-07:00

Wasn't she just born yesterday?

Look how tiny she was!

And look at her now. A walking, talking, amazing little person.

Birthday party pics to follow soon...

Bridget took her first steps!

2010-05-09T23:31:00.000-07:00

We watched her take two steps! Then, when I ran to grab the video camera, she sat down and crawled after me. We haven't been able to get her to do it again. But, I did get a picture of her standing all on her own. She's getting so big!

5/3/10

My how things change

2010-05-09T23:25:00.000-07:00

On Mother's Day two years ago , I posted this and started this blog.

Around this time last year, this was what was going on in my life.

This year, I woke up to the sweetest little baby yelling for "Mama!" and went downstairs to see this.

She was so happy to see me and even broke her "All-I-Want-Is-Daddy" phase for the day. She was so sweet and Mommy-loving. Some days I just can't believe she's mine. She's so perfect and awesome!

Today I thought about all the mommies out there, in so many stages of mommyhood. Those with fur-babies, those still hoping and praying, those with angel babies, those pregnant with their miracles, and those of us lucky enough to be able to spend the day with our little ones. So, wherever you are in your journey, Happy Mother's Day to you. I hope yours was as joyful as mine.

Bridget is signing

2010-04-11T21:28:00.000-07:00

We've been using American Sign Language for a few things with Bridget for, well, since she came home. Our most consistant use has been at dinner time when we use, "more", "all done", and "milk." We also use "Mommy" and "Daddy", "dog" and "cat." In the past few weeks, it has really started clicking with her. Breakfast March 20th was the first time she signed "more" for sure. She's been using it every day since. Then for lunch today, she signed "all done" and at dinner she signed "milk" Wahoo!!!! There have been a few times she has signed something like Daddy and then looks for Mike, but we're not positive about that one. I'm trying to get her signing on video but my flip is missing right now. Grrr. She's doing so many new things now that I really hope I can find it in a few days. I'm so excited and don't want to forget these days. She's growing up so fast.

First time on the swings, April 1st, 2010. She's so happy!

Volunteering

2010-03-20T15:53:00.000-07:00

So, I have always enjoyed volunteering. I like to spend my time doing something that benefits other in some way. For the past few years, my volunteer time has been with Southern Nevada Pug Rescue, whom I adore. Since getting pregnant I have not been able to help nearly as much as I would like to. And since Bridget arrived, we haven't been available to foster or help at all it seems. *sigh* So, I really wanted to get into volunteering again. It was one of the things on my 101 in 1001 list (which I really should update).
So today, I volunteered at Three Square, which is a non-profit organization that helps get food to people that need it here in Vegas. They are an amazing organization and their new facility is beautiful.
I spent the morning with a few teachers from school organizing and repairing packaging for items that had been donated. Holy cow it was a lot of stuff. Apparently, Three Square doesn't just give food. We were sorting everything you can think of: boxes and boxes of paper towels and TP, zipper plastic bags, dog food, blankets, area rugs, kitchen items, and some things I didn't even know about, like the Nana Saver which, now that I type out, seems like an even more stupid name than I originally thought. (Is anyone else picturing a floaty for grannies? No? Just me? Okay then.)
Anyway, it was a great time and I hope that I'll be able to go back again soon. Volunteering is definitely more fun when you go as a group.

Happy St. Patrick's Day

2010-03-17T20:46:00.000-07:00

Hope you had a great day being green!

From our family to yours.

I love food.

2010-03-13T07:17:00.000-08:00

Not that this should come as any surprise. Really, who doesn't love food? I also love cooking. I rarely do it for lack of time, but I love to cook meals at home. What I don't like is the prep work before and the cleaning after. Seriously, I need to be a chef so I can have people to do those parts for me. I tell you all of this because I have been cooking all of Bridget's food since she started eating solids. At first, it was a breeze! Steam some veggies, puree them in the food processor, freeze, and you're good to go. Woohoo! Supermom!

However, now that she's eating things that are more complex than mashed peas and carrots, it's starting to take its toll on my time and my kitchen. Truly, making one or two meals for her takes the better part of 3 hours start to finish. And that's not counting in the time to make the stocks or whatever is needed prior to making said meal. A few weekends ago, I took on two meals: Chicken with Sweet Potatoes and Apples and Mini-Minestrone (recipes from Top 100 Baby Purees which I borrowed from the library and absolutely love). Both sounded appetizing to me so I figured Bridget would like them too. She's an awesome eater and the only thing we've found so far that she doesn't like is avocado (I know, crazy right?).

Anyway, I set to work around noon last Saturday. I had make the stock needed for both recipes the day before (because holy cow, have you seen how much sodium is in store bought stock?). Cleaning, chopping, prepping, etc took about 45 minutes and then cooking and pureeing was another hour or so.

This is the chicken, sweet potato and apple cooking. Yum!

This is the minestrone. I think the potatoes sucked up more liquid than expected but eh, it still smelled delicious.

After cooking and pureeing, you pour everything into ice cube trays and let them freeze. Then, you pop them out and store them in baggies. This is the awesome part about homemade baby food. I have individual little portions of many different meals available to me at all times. No feeling bad about opening a jar that she only eats a little from. No disgusting smells that don't seem to fit the food you are serving (which for the record is why I started doing homemade food in the first place).

Bridget's shelf in the freezer. From left to right: Chicken w/ sweet potato and apple, Minestrone, greens mix, sweet potato and carrot, strawberry and apple, cauliflower w/ cheese sauce, peas, and plain carrots. (and yes, that is a sock in the freezer at the bottom. We fill it with rice and use it as a cold pack.)

So I suppose in the end, for all my whining and complaining, I still love making Bridget food. I know exactly what's in it and it makes me feel good to know that I'm giving her a good start with good foods. Because I make her food, she's been exposed to several foods even I haven't had much experience with (parsnips anyone?). It has also expanded my comfort level with cooking. I'm no longer afraid of leeks. Bridget loves them. And I'm learning to love them too. Bell peppers on the other hand...blech.

Now, the next big step is to get her to eat finger foods. She's really not a fan of anything whole except her puffs.

How/what have you all been eating?

A walk through time

2010-02-19T21:48:00.000-08:00

Here's a very brief walk through the last few monthly birthday pictures of Bridget.

Before she learned to sit up on her own. We had to keep propping her up and catching her as she tipped to the side.

Her 7 month pictures which I didn't get around to taking until she was 7 and a half months. Oops. But she was sitting on her own!

Her current 8 month picture. It was so hard to get a good shot because she's so mobile now! She kept crawling around the couch and trying to get down.

So I just let her crawl/stand/walk and tried to get some good shots. She's such a happy baby. I'm so blessed to have her in my life.

Peek-a-boo!

2010-02-19T21:40:00.000-08:00

Bridget can play it! (please ignore the obnoxious parent voices.)

My child is clearly a genius! ;)

I'm still here.

2010-02-15T16:21:00.000-08:00

Sorry guys, just can't seem to find time to post. I promise we're all doing well and we're all pretty happy. Bridget has reached some major milestones (hello crawling!) and I promise I'll update soon. Maybe I'll upload some pics tonight and at least put something up. I've been following everyone and have just been a quiet observer for awhile. I'll get back into things soon. Just gotta figure out where to start...

Bridget and the Fish

2009-12-20T12:22:00.000-08:00

So, at Thanksgiving time we visited Mike's family near Phoenix. About five minutes from their home is a wildlife zoo which recently added an aquarium section. We decided that it would be a great family outing and off we went with Grandma, Grandpa, and Aunt Sabrina and Uncle Brandon.

We got to see all sorts of fun stuff. Bridget was much more interested in the aquarium section than the zoo section.

She liked watching the penguins dive and swim (really, who doesn't?) but her favorite thing of all was this little fish. She just stared at it and very contentedly watched it swim back and forth in its little home.

The sound on the video is horrible because there were so many people around, but you can hear Uncle Brandon in the background being so excited about Bridget enjoying herself. This video was taken after we had already been standing watching the fish for several minutes.

I think we need to get Bridget a fish tank, what do you think? :)

Guess who's back!

2009-11-09T21:22:00.000-08:00

Yep. It's the Sophie! I would show pictures if I could get my camera to cooperate. She's home. She's absolutely filthy, but she's home. It took Mike and I both to get her in the house. She was skittish and didn't want to be caught. But then the first thing she did when she got in the house was run to her catnip scratcher, lay on it, and scratch to her hearts content. Then she flopped on the floor and slept. Hard core cat sleeping. Like, so hard that even the pug snuffling in her face didn't bug her. I don't think she slept well out in "the wild."
I'm so glad she's home. Now to get her a bath...

She's gone

2009-11-06T22:07:00.000-08:00

Still no Sophie. She must have snuck out last night as Mike came in the door. We've searched high and low in the house and haven't seen anything. So tonight we made posters and hung them up. I asked neighbors to keep an eye out. We're going to call the pound tomorrow just to cover all bases. We put food and water out front in hopes that she'll find her way back to us. Please keep us in your thoughts and hope for the best. I know it may seem silly to some, but she's part of our family and she's missing. Mike and I are both depressed and struggling with this. I've never had a pet go missing and I'm so upset even at the thought of not having her here anymore.

Fail!

2009-11-05T21:26:00.000-08:00

I completely lose in the posting every day category. I fell asleep on the couch last night and then went to bed. I woke up suddenly at 3:30 this morning and realized I hadn't posted. FAIL! Oh well, back on track now I suppose.

So, Sophie is MIA right now. Sophie is our cat. She doesn't get much face time here. Maybe that's why she's hiding. Either way, Mike's really worried and I must admit I'm a little concerned as well. We spent about 45 minutes shaking treats and toys around the house and opening up every door and cabinet we could. No Soph anywhere. I'm sure she'll somehow appear tonight. Sophie is a champ at hiding and she's done this to us a few times but it's been a couple of years since she hid this well. However, there's that teeny, tiny, nagging feeling in the back of my mind wondering if somehow she got outside. We searched front and back and didn't see her but maybe she wandered? Now I'm more worried. *sigh* I'll update tomorrow.

In brighter news, Bridget will be 5 months tomorrow. Holy cow.

Um, yeah, I guess

2009-11-03T22:07:00.000-08:00

So, Halloween is also Nevada Day. Yes, this great state I live in was "born" on October 31st. The great thing about this is that I don't have to work on the last Friday of October. Yahoo! This year, that day fell on the day before Halloween so of course, all the kids were super excited (as was I).

Anyway, to try to get them to understand that we don't have HALLOWEEN off but NEVADA DAY, we study about our state symbols.

We learn about:

The state tree: The pinion pine for those not in the know.

Our state bird: The mountain bluebird

Our amazing state "flower": Sagebrush (just so you all know, this is what dries up and becomes tumbleweeds. Fabulous.)

And finally, our state animal: The Desert Bighorn Sheep.

It's this last one that is the subject of today's post (took me long enough to get to the point, eh?) So, we're reading our story in our small group and we get to the bighorn sheep page. We read the little blurb about the sheep and look at the picture. One of my kids gets all excited and calls out "Oooooh, like a Dodge!" ??? Then it connects. He has connected the ram horns with a Dodge Ram truck.

Score another one for Consumer America. *sigh*

I couldn't do anything but smile and say "yep."

Not sure where to go from here

2009-11-01T15:00:00.001-08:00

So, it's November and I'm going to try to make this my month of posting every day. Don't know if it will happen, but it's on my list so, I figure why not start now?
Here's my problem: I don't know where to go from here. This started out as a blog about me and my infertile bitterness and struggle to become a mommy. While I still consider myself to be in the infertile and pregnancy loss family, I have been able to go on to the successful side (where I hope to see so many others soon). I don't want to alienate my fellow IFers with non-stop talk of baby, but that's kinda my life now. I struggled to get her for so long (not as long or as hard as some others, but plenty for me) and I want to document her life. I don't want this to turn completely into a "mommy blog" either though. So where to go from here?
I have a feeling it will run mostly along the lines of baby mixed with some anecdotes about things happening at work and randomness that I note from day to day. Pretty boring but things I like to share, ya know?
So, to all of my IF friends, I apologize in advance and understand if you need to stop following (although I hope you won't). I will keep following along with your journeys and wishing you the best, as always.
For my non-IF friends, I hope you'll continue to hang out even when I'm not the most amazing person to read (as if I ever was huh?). In general, I hope to be keeping in touch more with the blogosphere and I hope to hear from you guys too! Oh, and here's a picture of Bridget because I can.

From her 4 month "photo shoot" which was almost a month ago already. HOLY COW where does the time go?

Happy Halloween!

2009-10-31T22:38:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween all! I love this holiday and was so excited to share it with Bridget for the first time. Here's some pictures from the past few days of fun with our little family.

We visited the pumpkin patch and got some great pictures. Bridget's able to sit on her own against things so we propped her up and went to town. :)

She was a ladybug for Halloween. This was at our Trunk-or-Treat. See her little barrette? Yeah, Mommy is a sucker for cute hair things. Who wouldn't be with a baby with hair as awesome as Bridget's? Haha.

Hanging around the house today I had her dressed as a ballerina. Aren't those the cutest little shoes?!I think she's practicing. She looks so perfect and girly in this picture.

And then the fun begins! We (and by we I mean Mike) hollowed out the pumpkin and we gave Bridget the "guts" to play with. She wasn't quite sure what to do except try to eat them. It was pretty funny.

Out tonight passing out candy. We didn't actually take her out Trick-or-Treating because, well, she doesn't eat candy and lord knows Mike and I don't need any. ;) So we just dressed her up and sat in front of the house talking with our neighbors and passing out candy. It was a great night.

And finally, here's our pumpkin. Mike was VERY proud of it. I think it's pretty good too. All in all, a great first Halloween. Here's to many more to come.

It hasn't stopped!

2009-09-26T08:42:00.000-07:00

Apparently the water at my school is still magic pregnancy water. I thought everyone that wanted to/could have kids got pregnant last year. You would think that 9 babies in a year would be enough, but noooooooooo. There are two more already this year! One of them is the teacher that teaches next door to me. We were pregnant together LAST YEAR! Her baby was born in February and now she's pregnant again and due in April. YIKES I say. Although she wanted them very close together, so she's happy with it.
Anyone out there want me to send them some water? ;) I personally am avoiding it. I don't want to miss a minute of time with my little one.

One year ago today

2009-09-26T08:13:00.000-07:00

I woke up, peed on a stick, and my whole life changed. I went from being an infertile woman, trying and trying and trying for a baby, only to have my heart broken each month, to a pregnant woman. The fears and joys that came along with the journey changed me forever. I still think about the baby we lost every night. I whisper to Bridget as I put her down "Goodnight sweet baby. You're safe and happy. The angels will watch over you and I'll see you in the morning when the sun wakes up." I picture all the sweet lost babies of friends in the PL/IF world looking in on her and making sure she's ok. Especially her little lost sibling. It brings some peace to my heart. And it makes me so thankful to have this sweet little baby in my life. I couldn't ask for anything more.

New and improved

2009-09-20T22:40:00.000-07:00

Well, upgraded at least. Mike got together with my mom and his mom and got me a new laptop! Hooray!!!! No more problems charging the battery, suddenly quitting and losing everything. No more fear of things getting lost and not being found again. I love it! So, I should be able to post again on a regular basis. I'll shoot for October being my month to post every day. ::fingers crossed:: that nothing happens.

We're good to go

2009-09-16T23:51:00.000-07:00

**I apologize in advance for the TMI nature of this post. Feel free to skip to the next set of stars if you don't want to read about my girly stuff**

So, I am officially using birth control again. This is extremely weird as I haven't taken any birth control since before I got married. I stopped taking my pills about 3 month before we got married and never started them again. We used condoms for the first year and then started trying for a baby. So there has been no form of birth control used in this family for more than two years! And yet there's only one Bridget. That's what IF will do to ya folks.

Anywho, on to the BC. I react VERY badly to the pill. The adjustment to the hormones is truly frightening. I turn into an absolute monster and cannot control my emotions. I yell and scream at Mike for the tiniest things (ex: squeezing the toothpaste from the middle) and I cannot stop myself. For this reason, neither one of us was too keen on me going on the pill again. Everyone says that breastfeeding is a natural form of BC. Well, that may be true but I just can't trust it. Especially since I'm not exclusively breastfeeding. I definitely don't want an "oops" baby.

With all of this in mind, I talked to the doctor and we decided on Mir.ena. I really like the fact that it will last for 5 years and I don't have to remember anything (except to get it removed in five years!) There's no hormone adjustment period and the side effects are pretty mild (some cramping and bleeding for a bit.) It took about 2 minutes to "install" (although I waited for an hour and half past my appointment time to be seen but that's another story). And now, I'm all set. No more babies here!

Which again, is a strange thing. For so long, all that consumed every thought was getting pregnant. The timing, the CBEFM, the peeing on sticks, the disappointment, etc... And now I'm back to being a "normal" person who actually worries about sex leading to a baby. ::eye roll::

**It's safe now**

Look at the cute Bridget in her swing!

:)

The damn dog!

2009-09-15T22:29:00.000-07:00

Ate my pants! Both of the pairs of maternity pants that I've been wearing are now chewed and unwearable. Arg!!!

A quicky

2009-09-13T23:24:00.000-07:00

Quick post before bed.

So our new schedule starts tomorrow. I've gotten so used to driving with Mike in the morning its going to be weird to be without him. I enjoy our bit of time together. I also enjoy not having to drive in traffic. I really don't enjoy driving all that often so Mike always drives to and from work (and pretty much any other time we're in the car together). Now I have to drive alone. Boohiss!

I have to drop Bridget off alone too. No more kisses from Daddy in the mornings at daycare. :( She'll still have Mommy though.

Anyway, it's late and I have to get up in the A.M. 'night all!

What a difference a year makes

2009-09-12T16:50:00.000-07:00

I was thinking this morning that last year on this day I was peeing on another stupid CBEFM stick and started jumping for joy when it FINALLY gave me a peak. Yes ladies and gent (I believe there's only one of you reading this), last year little eggy Bridget was released to make the trek down to her squishy little 9 month home inside of me.

And now look at her. Playing outside in this big wide world!

La la la la laaaaaaaaa!

We went to a Music Together baby class this morning and had so much fun! We danced and sang and played with instruments. Bridget loved the maracas and kept using it like a little microphone. It was too cute. And now we'll be going to baby music class every Saturday and I'm so excited.

Then we got to go have sushi for the first time since, well, about this time last year. Yaaaaaay! Yummy, yummy, yummy!

Screaming orgasm. Just what everyone needs on their birthday. Hahah!

Enjoying my spicy crab hand roll. Mmmmmmmm. Seriously, so happy to have sushi again!

It was a great birthday. I can't remember one I have enjoyed so much. Here's to hoping for a great upcoming year!

New beginnings

2009-09-11T23:08:00.000-07:00

**Sorry I missed posting yesterday. I was so trying to post every day this month. Leave it to fate to screw with my plans. My laptop decided to die. I think Mike has revived it for a short time but if I go missing again, my laptop is probably dead beyond repair.**

BIG NEWS!! After more than a year of working at a job he HATED, Mike's last day of work was today. He starts his new job on Monday and both of us are really looking forward to it. Not only will it be a much less stressful job, it will be better pay and a reliable paycheck.

Up to now, he's been working in a small business with very few employees and things have just gotten worse and worse in the three years he's been there. Mike finally got fed up enough and seriously started looking for a new job when he walked into work 5 months ago and they announced that they were cutting everyone's pay by 20%. Yeah. We're just going to take away a day worth of pay each week. Because don't you know that that's just what everyone can handle right now? And it was especially great timing for us being that we were saving up because there was a baby coming. ::sigh:: Then for the past 2 months, payroll hasn't gone through. Which leads to us overdrawing our account and fees and bounced checks and all sorts of other badness. BooHiss!

But now, things will be better! His new job is with the county, so he'll be getting government benefits and he'll only be doing the job of ONE person (where before he had about 5 job descriptions). I'm hoping that this will lead to a but less stressed household around here.

Plus, we just got his truck fixed. It's been down for almost 10 months. It's going to be interesting getting used to having two cars again. What will I do with myself in the mornings now that I won't have to rush around to get him to work in time? I have a few great ideas. Many involve sleeping (which is probably wishful thinking since there's a little person called Bridget :)). They will probably include spending some quality smiley time with my Bridgey in the morning and watching the news again while feeding her.

I have a huge smile just thinking about all of this. ::Warm fuzzies:: Now off to bed. Fresh bamboo sheets call my name (that's a whole other post right there).

Magical mysical powers!

2009-09-09T23:03:00.000-07:00

Apparently breastmilk has them. Bridget has had dry patches of skin on her cheeks for weeks now. It feels like excema (I know because I have it). Anyways, I talked to her pedi who gave me the completely useless information of "No lotions on babies under 6 months." Well thanks dude, that helps a lot.

So, I headed to the local crunchy mama store to look for homeopathic remedies or other ideas that could help. The lady at the store asked, "Have you tried breastmilk?" What? Breastmilk? "Umm, what do I do with it? She drinks it but that's about it." She said to squeeze a little out and put it on the rashy spot. Thinking to myself "well, it can't hurt" I went home and tried it. Lo and behold, within a day all traces of the dry spots were gone. Gone I tell you!

"Look Mommy. No Bumps!" Yaaay baby!

Amazing stuff this breastmilk.

What about the rest of the year?

2009-09-08T16:39:00.000-07:00

I have 4 different spelling groups in my class. They are differentiated by color. When I was telling students which groups they were in today, I announced that T was in my pink group. He quickly stated:

"You're my March enemy!"

Hahahahahahaha!

Several students caught it and corrected him. I swear, the kids this year have great personalities!

My thighs are lifesavers!

2009-09-07T21:36:00.000-07:00

Apparently. According to this, my thighs are keeping me from dying of heart disease and a horrible premature death. Thank god for one good thing about being fat.

So there you go ladies. Smile and be happy about your thighs for a minute or so. You're welcome.

She's growing so fast!

2009-09-06T22:55:00.000-07:00

Well, today my baby is 3 months old. It's gone by so quickly. I'm sad to see it fly by, but I'm so happy to watch her grow. It's such a strange feeling. Bridget is meeting all of her milestones at the right times. Her newest tricks are blowing spit bubbles, rolling onto her side (and occasionally rolling all the way from her tummy to her back), and gripping things. The last one being her favorite at the moment.

We went out today and got her some new toys. She can have the 3+ month toys now. Hahhaa! So we picked up a few different rattles and such so try to get her interest. Her favorite is the O Ball (I think that's what it's called). Anyways, it's light and easy to grip and she had a blast with it on the floor today. Witness the gripping!

Yes, she has wrist rattles on too. :) I told you we rattled it up today.

And of course we had to take her 3 month photos. We chose a new location this month and I think we'll take all our pictures here from now on. I like the background better and Bridget can sit up on her own against the cushions. Oh my gosh, she's sitting!

Happy 3 months baby! I'm so happy you're mine. I can't picture my life without you in it.

I'm a party girl!

2009-09-05T22:58:00.000-07:00

Ok, I'm ready. Mom bought a new bow for my hair and everything (happy Rach? lol) Where's the party girl?

Today was one of my best friend's 30th birthday. One of her other really good friends and her husband planned a surprise party for her. So, we all got dressed up and headed down to dinner to surprise her. And it was a success! She was so surprised she was crying. Hooray! We had a great time and some pretty good pizza. Yum!

Happy birthday Jamie!

You must be this chubby...

2009-09-03T21:49:00.000-07:00

...to wear cloth diapers! Yes, Bridget FINALLY fits into the cloth diapers we bought. I am soooo excited! FLUFFY BUTT!!!

Worst.Morning.Ever.

2009-09-02T20:32:00.000-07:00

Ugh.
Started out with a happy, smiley baby that just wanted to be held. She was cooing and smiling and kicking her little legs in happiness. Then I had to put her in her car seat and drive her to the sitter. She just screamed her little lungs out the whole time. This makes for a very sad mommy.

We left the sitter (Mike and I drive together) and got pulled over for "speeding." It's a completely BS ticket and Mike and I are planning to fight it. We were keeping up with traffic AND going the speed limit. In fact, when I called my mom and told her our speed and location, her first words were, "Oh, you got pulled over for going too slow?" Umm, nope. "Were you in a construction zone?" Nope, just an asshole cop.

So we leave that ordeal and continue driving to work (for which Mike is already 20 minutes late). Mike drops me off and I walk to unlock the gate to go into my classroom. OH CRAP! Where is my purse?! I turn to watch it driving off on the top of the car. I'm frantically waving and screaming, hoping Mike will see me. I'm running as fast as possible to catch him while carrying my breast pump bag, my school books, my lunch bag, AND wearing a dress. Lovely.

Sadly, I did not catch him and as I'm walking to the freeway (hoping that it may have fallen off as her turned the corner) I start crying. My camera is in there. My keys are in there. My ID is there. My phone is there. How in the hell am I going to replace all of that? Alas, the purse did not fall off before Mike got on the freeway.

I walked back to school and into the office to call Mike and see if MAYBE it had stayed on the car all through his drive to work. As soon as my principal saw me, she asked what was wrong. I explained though sobs and she dialed Mike's cell for me. Mike answered the phone with "yes." OH THANK GOD! Apparently, he saw and heard it fall off on the freeway and stopped to get it. Yes, people, he stopped to get it. On the freeway. In 7:30 traffic. Thanks be to whoever was watching out for him that he didn't get hit by a car.

He drove back to my work and gave me my purse. Everything was just fine. You would never know it had been on such an adventure. Then, he went to work 40 minutes late. Fabulous.
From that point on, the day was normal if not pretty good. But seriously, I don't think I can handle another day like that for a very long time. No one should have to. ::sigh::

Now I will end my day by giving a smiling Bridget a bath, swaddle her, and send her off to sleepytime. A good ending to a perfectly crappy morning. G'night all.

Are you ready for some?

2009-09-01T22:49:00.000-07:00

Today we were discussing seasons. Students were thinking of which one was their favorite and why. Since I've had problems with kids not knowing their seasons, I wanted to clarify what the seasons were. Especially for my non-english speakers. Here's how the conversation went in my classroom...

Me: Ok, who can name one of the seasons?

Student 1: Fall.

Student 2: Snow. (Ummm, that's a type of weather. Let's try again.)

Me: What season were you just out of school for?

Several students: Summer!

Me: OK, so we have Summer and Fall. What's another?

Student 3: FOOTBALL season!

Bwahahahahaha! I couldn't help but laugh.

My child is amazing!

2009-08-31T22:54:00.000-07:00

Bridget rolled over today from her tummy to her back. She was apparently very unhappy being on her tummy and used her butt to send herself over. Hahahah! Now we'll have to see if she knows what she did and can repeat it.

I'm back to being a teacher

2009-08-30T21:38:00.000-07:00

I'm hoping that I won't be too bad this year. I can't say I'm starting out too well. Here it is, Sunday night at almost 10:00 p.m. and I don't have my plans ready for tomorrow. I'm sitting here blogging, watching Iron Chef, and eating chocolate chip cookies. Bridget has had her bath and her bottle and is now sleeping next to me on the boppy. Life is good. Just not productive (which it really needs to be right now.) Oh well.

Last week went pretty well. I like my class. They seem to be a really good group. My class is only 16 kids as of right now so that's nice too. One year I had a class of 23 and it just about killed me. My goal for the year is to be consistent in my classroom management. I always start out really good but tend to fall back on the same two techniques and I really need to use other things to keep the kids on their toes.

In Bridget news, she giggled for the first time last Wednesday night! Mike was playing with her after her bath and three giggles came dancing out. It was one of the cutest things I've ever heard. Alas, we have not been able to recreate it.

Bridget also finally met her great-grandma. It was one of the sweetest things I've ever seen. My Grandma has never been what you would call a cuddly or loving person. She's just not one of those that really gives hugs or kisses. However, she saw Bridget and melted. She just couldn't let her go. It brought tears to my eyes to see her melting over my sweet little baby. (Please excuse the paint test on the wall.)

I will cherish this always.

I think I'll be alright

2009-08-23T00:04:00.001-07:00

I made it through the first few days back at work. Three days of meetings. The kids all come back on Monday. I think it was easier though because she wasn't very far from me. Mike stayed home on Wednesday and I came home to see her at lunch. Then Thursday and Friday, my mom took off and took care of her. So I knew she was just down the street. Monday will be her first day at daycare. I absolutely love the lady that will be taking care of her. She is so nice and was a teacher for several years before this so she knows about child development and all that good stuff.

Speaking of teaching, so far I have a small class this year. I've only got 15 kids enrolled at this point so that's nice. Open house was last night and I actually had 10 families show up. WooHoo!! Maybe this year I'll actually have some parent involvement.

Bridget is doing really well. She's still sleeping through the night (!!!) and she's smiling all the time. I LOVE it! Check her out...

I'm so happy everytime I wake up and see this face. (And I swear we don't constantly keep her in her bouncer, that's just the easiest place to take pictures of her.)

I feel like crap

2009-08-18T20:54:00.000-07:00

I have to leave Bridget tomorrow. The school year is starting and I no longer get to spend my days at home with my baby. I have to be in charge of other people's kids. Next time I get to stay home with my baby, she'll be a year old. I'm crying just thinking about it. I can't stand this.

A new toy

2009-07-28T21:24:00.000-07:00

Because she did so well at her doctor's appointment today (up another 6oz! Total weight now 8lb, 9oz), Bridget and I went shopping today. We found a tummy time mat that I just had to get.

I think she likes it!

"Thanks mommy! This was a good buy." :D

Bridget is 7w 3d

Success!

2009-07-26T18:08:00.000-07:00

Now, I'm probably jinxing myself right now, but I think we've got a baby that sleeps through the night. This is amazing at only 7 weeks! SHE'S SLEEPING THROUGH THE NIGHT! Our routine has been: 4oz bottle, a bit of playtime, bath with the bedtime bath stuff in the purple bottle, put on pj's (which have to be the gown type with hand covers and elastic bottoms), swaddle, rock with mommy, off to sleep after a little bit of comfort nursing. It's been working for us for 4 nights. She's usually asleep by 10:30ish and she's sleeping until 5:30ish. Then she wakes up to eat and usually falls back asleep until 8ish. It's great! And this is what I wake up to...

Good morning!

But because I'm a new mommy and worry about everything, I'm kinda worried that this will lead to her not gaining weight. Doesn't she need to eat to gain weight? If she's not eating for 7 hour stretches, is that good for her at this age? I'm going to ask her pedi on Tuesday at her weight check. He'll probably roll his eyes and say it's fine (as long as she IS gaining weight). But I'm asking anyways.

I cooked!

2009-07-25T09:20:00.000-07:00

I don't think you guys realize how happy this made me! I actually planned a meal and got to cook it! Up to this point, it's been a lot of frozen, pre-packaged meals or quick fixes like pasta or hot dogs. It gets old really fast. So, in an attempt at feeling more like a good wife and mother, I went to The Pioneer Woman's new site, Tasty Kitchen, and found some meals to make for the week. I looked through the grocery ads and found most of what I needed on sale (go me!). Then, I hoped and prayed that I would actually have the energy to cook. And lo and behold, I did! (thanks to a certain little girl who slept through the night :))

So, without further ado, I give you...My first real meal since the c-section!

A made up recipe for panko crusted salmon, sauteed zucchini, and mashed potatoes. OMG, so good (if I do say so myself)! I had planned on using a recipe for the salmon, but when I got into the kitchen, it just didn't sound appetizing. So I threw panko crumbs, parmesan, thyme, and olive oil together and packed it onto the salmon that I had sprinkled with lemon pepper. It came out pretty dang tasty. And can I state for the record that I am so jealous of all of the people that have tons of zucchini in their gardens right now? I LOVE zucchini and actually had to go by it at the store. Bah!

I'm hoping this can continue. I really do like cooking and planning meals.

How about you guys? What have you been eating lately?

Oh glorious sleep

2009-07-22T09:30:00.001-07:00

Bridget slept through the night! She fell asleep at 10:30 and she didn't wake up until 5:30 this morning. Woohoo!! I'm feeling great today and I'm really hoping this sleeping thing continues. This is how things are shaping up today though.

Oh look, it's an adorable sleeping baby! Get the camera.

"Did I hear a camera click? I need to wake up and get in on the action."

"Hey there Mom. Is it time to eat?"

These were taken within a minute of each other. ::sigh:: As long as she sleeps at night, I'll be happy.

8 oz!

2009-07-21T10:17:00.000-07:00

Who knew that such a small amount could make a person so happy?! Bridget went to her weight check today and has gained 8oz this week. WAHOOOOOOOO! She is now 8lbs 3oz and doing well. The doctor wants to see her back again next week and if she's continuing to gain weight like this he'llremove the "failure to thrive" label. ::sigh of relief:: Go Bridget, go! Keep growing little one!

Bridget is 6w3d

I'm so scared *updated

2009-07-16T11:43:00.000-07:00

We took Bridget to her one month well-baby check on Tuesday. She's five and a half weeks and has not gained any weight. Her head is growing, she's an inch longer, but she's still at her birth weight. I'm so scared. The doctor called it "failure to thrive" which is the worst term ever as it makes it seem like something that can't be overcome.

I feel like a terrible mommy. I feel like I've failed her. Or her little body is failing her. And I don't know how to fix it.

The doctor didn't give us any real answers. He said it could be anything from not eating enough or not metabolizing calories to enlarged heart or lung problems. So for the short term, we're supplementing with formula. I've been pretty much exclusively breastfeeding to this point. Now I BF and then we offer her a bottle afterward. She has been eating from it so I guess I haven't been providing enough to this point. Hopefully this will help her get on track. I'm so scared it's something more serious though.

We had to take her to get blood drawn yesterday (my heart broke while she cried) and then she had to get chest x-rays done. I'm calling the doctor every few hours hoping that he'll have some update at least on the x-rays.

Have any of you gone through this? I'm completely freaking out and fighting back tears every few minutes. I just want her to be healthy and happy. Is that too much to ask?

**updated** The Dr called and everything came back normal in her x-rays and bloodwork. Actually, he said something in her bloodwork was a little high but didn't say what. He wasn't concerned. I am of course. However, I chose not to ask what it was because then I would just spend the rest of the week looking up reasons for elevated whatever-it-was. I'll be taking her in next Tuesday for a weight check (my idea, not his) to see if this supplementing is working. Please, please let it work.

Happy one month!

2009-07-06T22:28:00.000-07:00

Holy cow!! One month went by so fast! I don't know that Bridget had gotten much bigger really, but she sure is much more aware and awake. She just started really looking at things a few days ago. And I captured it on camera today! I was so excited. She was in a good mood this morning so I decided to try out her bouncer again. Usually, she starts crying about a minute after we put her in it. Today she seemed to enjoy her time. Check it out -

"Hey there lamby! One day I will eat you and it will look like this! RAAAWR"

"Oh hello there Pug. I see you too. You are my best friend!"

(By the way, we have taken to calling Chiisai "the third parent" as anytime she makes even the slightest noise, he runs over to check on her and then stares at us like "WTH is wrong with you? Can't you see she needs you?" It's hilarious actually.)

Then, tonight we gave her her first real bath (her cord stump FINALLY fell off a few days ago). After bath time, it was time to take our official ONE MONTH pictures. Of course, Bridget was not happy to be unswaddled. Please notice Mike's arm in the photo and the orange paci on her chest. A few seconds before this, he had been holding the paci in her mouth and trying to get her to be calm for the picture. Fat lot of good it did as you can see. Haha!

"Wrap me up! I refuse to cooperate unless you swaddle me NOW!"

So, we swaddled her up and put her Picky Sticky sticker onto her blanket (a good idea from Sarah who also sent us the wonderful Picky Stickies!) (And I had to link to the blankets because seriously, I am in love with these things. They're big and light and swaddle REALLY well and they're the only thing that keeps Bridget happy and contained.)

"Alright, now I will lay here for your photo. Thanks Mom!"

You're welcome my little Bridgey. Mommy loves you. Happy one month birthday baby!

I have a question.

2009-07-05T18:26:00.000-07:00

Why is it that my child won't sleep when she's clean, fed, swaddled, and being held but when you start lighting off fireworks, she's out like a light?

We spent all day yesterday with a fussy little baby. I bought her a cute little 4th of July onesie and was looking forward to pictures. Little Miss over here had other plans apparently. She flat out refused to be even somewhat calm if she was unswaddled. So, even though you can't see it, know that she was dressed for the occasion.

Happy first 4th Bridget!

Oh, and btw, can anyone else not believe that she'll be one MONTH old tomorrow?! Where the heck did the time go?

She's sleeping

2009-06-22T10:41:00.000-07:00

So I will try to update while she is quiet. Seriously, last night was the toughest yet. This child would not sleep. She was wide awake from 7pm-4am. Luckily, it was a quiet awake and not a screaming/crying awake. Then, she went to sleep from 4-6 and was up again. She's slept a little bit this morning but not for any stretches longer than 30 minutes. I feel terrible for Mike. He's been absolutely amazing at making sure I get sleep at night by taking her until she falls asleep. Last night he would not let me take her from him though. And he was soooo tired. He's worried that if I walk with her and don't rest, I won't heal from the c-section. Poor thing held her ALL NIGHT and then went to work this morning. I LOVE that he cares so much for me and her, but I'm worried that he's going to make himself sick if he doesn't get some rest. I really hope this little girl figures out the difference between night and day soon.

Anyway, I didn't start this post to complain. I started it to show you more pictures of this little girl.

First day home. Isn't that the cutest dress. Oh, and that pacifier... Drives me crazy but keeps her happy so it has become a permanent fixture.

Bridget and Mike with his brother and sister (and Chiisai). His little brother is so cute with her. He thinks having the "uncle" title is the absolute greatest thing in the world.

Meeting great-grandma for the first time. Grandma was amazed with all the hair. (as is everyone it seems)

First bath. (well, sponge bath b/c her cord stump is still there) She was NOT happy with the getting wet part but she LOVED the baby towel. This kid loves to be swaddled.

Finally, Happy First Father's Day to Mike. We took this last night so it's the most up to date picture of her. I can't believe she is already more than two weeks old.

Well, she's waking up. I got lucky with 45 minutes. I have other things to post about (my awesome mom, the adorable gift from Rotten, the animals' reaction to the little one) so, hopefully I'll get to them in a few days.

I miss you all. I'm still keeping up with you. I'll comment when I can.

Quick, quick

2009-06-13T18:37:00.000-07:00

She's here. She's home. We're all adjusting. She's still as sweet as can be (even when she's crying and making us lose our minds.) I'll try to post more tomorrow. For now I'm going to try to catch a nap while she is.

She's coming HOME!

2009-06-11T22:23:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow (barring any crazy last minute setbacks) I will have a baby IN MY HOUSE! And not just any baby. My sweet little Bridget.

She has to pass the "Car seat Challenge" tonight. (does any one else hear a crazy sports announcer with that?) I guess they'll put her in her car seat and she just has to sit there and not have any problems while she's in there. I don't see any problems arising but it's still that little nagging worry in the back of my mind.

Then, she has a hearing screening tomorrow. And her last dose of antibiotics is at noon tomorrow. So, all things going as planned, we'll be able to take her out of that stupid hospital and NICU and she'll be home with mommy and daddy in her own house tomorrow at 1:00. I'm so excited/anxious/overwhelmed. But in a good way.

And just because I can, more pictures of my baby. Because everyone loves baby pictures!

She sleeps a lot. And she LOVES to be swaddled. Don't those little baby hats crack you up? She looks like she's trying to hide little horns. And that yellowy jaundice color has gone away. Hooray!

Daddy and Bridget. Isn't that the sweetest picture? Although it looks like Mike's shirt is trying to cut off Bridget's IV.

A way over exposed picture of me with the cutest baby ever! And starting tomorrow, I'll be able to hold her whenever I want to for as long as I want to!

We're all still here

2009-06-08T07:45:00.000-07:00

Hey there guys. Sorry it's been awhile. My schedule has been: take pain meds, sleep, walk to NICU to feed/visit the beautiful baby, walk back from NICU, eat, take pain meds, sleep, ...

I'm finally a little ahead so I'm getting pictures uploaded and doing a small update. So without further ado, I introduce you to our baby: Miss Bridget Marie Simpson Ourlastname.

Isn't she beautiful?! So much black hair it's crazy. Especially since Mike and I both have lightish brown hair. :) Everyone in the hospital calls her "the miracle baby" because my labor was completely insane and even though I don't like to think about it, we both could have lost our lives. I can't go completely into the whole thing right now (just too hard emotionally), but she had a cord prolapse during the pushing and was delivered/born 7 minutes later by emergency c-section. It was frightening/scary/worrisome/every other word you could think would apply. So really, it's amazing that we're all here and relatively healthy. And she's just perfect.

She's still in the NICU and will be for 7-10 days now. She's developing a bit of jaundice. I'm trying like crazy to get her to feed enough so that she doesn't have to go under the bili lights. Her while blood cell count is a bit high and something else is also coming back positive (the neonatalogist used a technichal term and all I can remember is it starts with a "c") So, she'll have to be on antibiotics for at least 7 days though IV. :( I'm hoping that by day 7, she'll be all better and we can bring her home.

I'm recovering slowly. I'm walking and got to take a shower yesterday. Oh.my.god. who knew something could feel so good?!

Mike has been absolutely amazing during the whole thing. He's a fantastic husband and father. It makes me cry to see him holding her and see the love on his face.

Anyways, I'm getting sleepy so I'm going to take a nap before I get up to feed her again. Thank you all so much for the thoughts and prayers. They must have gotten to the right people because our prayers sure have been answered.

she's here

2009-06-06T05:24:00.000-07:00

I'll post a complete update sometime in the next few days, but she's here. It took 22 hours and an emergency c-section, but she is out and beautiful (i've been told. I have still not seen her.) she'll be in the NICU for the next 5-7 days which kills me, but at least we live close by and will of course be staying here with her as much as possible. Please keep us in your thoughts.

She's on her way

2009-06-05T09:24:00.000-07:00

Looks like eviction notice worked. We are in the hospital. I will update again when she is here.

GO BABY!

It's been almost 41 weeks

2009-06-04T12:07:00.000-07:00

I unabashedly stole this from my friend JackiJaguar. She served this to her little one and the next day was headed to the hospital. Here's to hoping this little one will take notice!

Crazy Condos
123 I'm Done Way
Hot, Very 54321

June 4, 2009

Dear Baby Goldenrod,

This letter is in regards to previous requests to rectify issues resulting in complaints from your neighbors. Your belongings continue to exceed the amount permitted given the square footage of the property which is in direct violation of housing code M.O.M., section 5.15. We have tried to work with you to address this situation in a cordial manner, but are sorry to inform you that you are ordered to vacate the premises immediately. You must remove all belongings within 48 hours, return your key to the office and leave the property in the condition you initially found it in (minus normal wear and tear). Failure to do so will result in the loss of your security deposit.

Thank you,
The Management

I think I've hit the breaking point

2009-06-04T08:50:00.000-07:00

Seriously people, I'm losing it here. I can't stop crying. The closest thing I can get to a description of how I'm feeling is angry. It's mixed in with frustration and confusion and anxiety, but mostly I feel angry.

Today is the last day of school. I really wanted to go in and see my kids one last time. But no, I'm stuck here at home because I don't have a car and I'm afraid to go anywhere alone anyways. I know that's silly but I'm just so scared that I'll go into labor and won't be able to drive back home. Plus, then Mike wouldn't have a way to get here. I'd rather he had the car so that he can get here if I need him. So here I sit, getting more frustrated woth waiting and NOTHING happening. I just hate it so much. I hate waiting. I hate not knowing. I'm tired. And I'm angry.

Nothing to report updated

2009-06-02T09:52:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to let you all now that there's still no baby arrival. I'm about to head out for an NST and then a doctor's appointment. I'm feeling pretty crappy today. I'm kinda hoping that it will lead to labor. I'll let you now if there's anything interesting later today.

Alrighty, so I've been having contractions here and there today. Caught three during the 20 minute NST. TOCOS was going up to about 35 so they're getting stronger. But alas, they have stopped now. Oh yeah, and my bp was 118/68. SWEET! I was quite proud. haha.

The doctor says I'm at almost 3cm dilated, 70% effaced, and the baby is at a -3 station (firmly against the cervix but not pushing down yet.) He says nothing will likely change until labor actually starts. But hey, I've definitely made progress. They say the first stage of labor is progressing from 0-3. Does that mean I'm already done with that part? If so, that was easy. :)

So, now we just keep waiting. Hopefully she shows in the next few days. My doctor is apparently going out of town this weekend so if she comes after Friday, someone I have never met will be delivering the baby. Hmmm.... Oh well I gess. As long as she gets here and is healthy, I'll be happy.

Because I'm bored

2009-05-30T21:09:00.000-07:00

I'm still sans baby, so I've been wandering around on YouTube. Always the best use of time, dontcha think? Anyways, here is my find for the night. I post it for all of you, but especially Duck. Ah, Anthony Kiedis before he got stupid and cut off his hair.

And here's another. We all know this one but I never realized how completely bizarre this video was until I saw this version. Absolutely cracked Mike and me up!

Hope you all have a great night (or morning if you're reading tomorrow). I'm off to bounce on my yoga ball in hopes of moving this baby down.

Due date = still no baby

2009-05-29T20:39:00.000-07:00

She's perfectly content hanging out in there apparently. On to tomorrow. As long as she comes out healthy I can stand it a bit longer. She's actually really good in there. I won't ever be able to use the "You used to kick me in the ribs" guilt trip with this one. She never has. ::knock wood:: But the poor thing is just running out of room. I think she'll be much happier out here where she can stretch a bit. Don't you think?

So, I've been keeping myself busy today. I think nesting has officially kicked in. I completely organized the nursery and made sure it's presentable. What do you think? A confession- this is what it started out looking like:

Just terrible. Even Sophie almost got lost in there. It was our catch all room. Now, it looks like this:

Chiisai approves. :) I love it. Now I just need to have some stuff to hang on the walls. Maybe I'll pick up some little shelves or something tomorrow. And we have to get an actual knob for the door. Right now it has a pull down handle type knob and Sophie cat has figured out how to open the door. She thinks the crib is hers and Zoe has taken to the bassinet. Not gonna happen.

Oh, and here's some belly pics. Last week, 39 weeks

And 40 weeks! Taken tonight, May 29th, the EDD.

So folks, until tomorrow, send some quick labor thoughts my way. Good night!

Still no baby

2009-05-28T17:51:00.001-07:00

That is all.

No news and some rambling

2009-05-22T21:25:00.000-07:00

Nothing new to report. She's still head down. Her fluid levels are good. I got in a bonus ultrasound. Hooray! And that's about it on the baby front.

Mike really thinks she's going to come this weekend. I asked if he wanted to go to a movie and he said, "Well, I'm kinda scared. I don't want you to start having contractions during the movie." Haha. So are we staying home until she comes then? I'm not planning on it.

Today was also my last day of work. I was originally planning to work until she came. But, my office manager got a long term sub for me weeks ago and I decided today to take advantage of that. There is so much to get done before the end of the year (report cards, comments, awards, assessment scores, etc...) that I decided that it would be much less stress on me to have time to get these things done at home. Then, I can go in after the school day is over and get everything put in. It will be so nice not to have to worry about how to fit it all in AND teach during the day. I told my kids today that they would have a new teacher starting next week. They were actually really excited because they know the baby could be here any time. I said I would probably come in to visit and that I would tell their sub when the baby came. So hooray - no more work (well, no more going in to work) until AUGUST! ::happy dance (as much as my pregnant, swolleness (sp?) will allow)::

I will leave you tonight with a few pictures from my baby shower. One of my best friends made me an amazing baby scrapbook with shower pictures and lots of open pages created for me to put in pictures and info for all the holidays and important events for her first year. So great! And now I have pictures to share. :)

Family picture. My mom, my grandma, and me. My grandma was so excited. She's almost blind now but she was so happy to be there. I'm so glad she made it.

My MIL, me, and my mom. Can you see the excitement on my mom's face?

I love this picture. My mom kisses and talks to the belly every time I see her. I'm glad I have a picture of this so I can remember it forever.

This shot requires some explanation. It's my reaction to the next picture.

This is the baby sampler that my mom is making for the baby. A bit of background on this: I saw this baby sampler in one of my mom's cross-stitch magazines when I was 8. I told my mom I wanted it when I had a baby. I remember her saying "Kate, do you know how BIG that sucker is?" Well, no, I didn't - I was 8. Anyways, apparently, my mom bought the pattern then and has saved it for 20 years. She started it when I was pregnant with the baby we lost. She started working on it again when we got pregnant this time. She kept it all a big secret. And now it's almost done. And let me tell you - it's HUGE! Seriously, it's at least the size of a receiving blanket. And the pattern was 12 PAGES long. Isn't it great though?! I love all the little animals and the little angels watching over everything. I can't wait to see it completely finished and hung in her room.

ONE WEEK until the due date!

Be careful what you ask for

2009-05-21T08:07:00.000-07:00

So, yesterday's post asking for progress must have worked. Just a little. Don't worry, I'm still here. Baby is still there. Everything's good. But last night I had a pretty serious case (bout, session?) of contractions. They weren't really painful for the most part. But they were about five minutes apart and the whole shebang lasted for a solid four hours. We didn't get to go to sushi. I didn't go to the hospital (my thinking- "These aren't too bad. I'd rather be uncomfortable at home whre I can eat and drink and move around than uncomfortable in the hospital.") Mike and I are hoping that this development moved the little one down and she's getting ready to come soon.
I have an NST today, so I'll check to see if she's changed positions or any of that. ::fingers crossed:: she'll be here before the end of May.
T-8 days until she's due.

Three years already?

2009-05-20T17:42:00.000-07:00

At this time three years ago, I was standing in front of a large group of friends and family vowing to spend my life with one man. It looked like this:

And then there was a big party with lots of silliness and fun. It went something like this:

(all wedding photos by the Fabulous StudioATG. Cause they're awesome.)

Since then, three years have flown by. Seriously, who knew time could go so fast? And I can truly say that there have been much more happy times that sad. Mike is the best man I could ask for. No matter what, he's there for me. Sure, we have our disagreements. I would worry if we didn't (Stepford anyone?). I love my marriage. I love my husband. I love the life we have created together. Overall, I'm just so happy to be here at this point in my life.

So now, we're off to sushi celebration dinner and to laugh at the evil stares of people thinking I'm harming the baby. It's onward and upward (or something like that). Can't wait to see what the future holds for us.

Just a little progress please?!

2009-05-20T17:32:00.000-07:00

I was so hoping to go into the doctor today and have him tell me I'm dilating or something. But no. I'm still at 1cm (been there for a month) and still high. BooHiss.
Oh well, keep cooking in there little baby. But know that I'm ready for you any time now, ok? And please don't make me go to my induction date which is... ready for it...June 10th at 3:30 AM. Yes A.M., people. As in, so fricking early I may as well not sleep at all. So please little girl, start making some progress soon.

Still no baby

2009-05-19T13:47:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to let you all know. She's still snug in there. Doctor's appointment tomorrow. We'll see if anything is progressing. Sorry no time for a better update. T-10 days!

Fears. I has them.

2009-05-07T19:14:00.000-07:00

I must have fears of my doctor. I don't feel like I have fears but every time I go, my blood pressure shoots up. WTH body? To prove my point, I give you this example from today.

I had an NST at 1:30. I was running late by about five minutes and worried that I was going to put the very nice NST lady behind schedule. I got in, sat down, hooked up, and then nice lady took my blood pressure. 118/84. Perfect she said. She looked back over my charts and noted that my blood pressure has never been high there. I could tell she was kinda wondering why exactly I was there since she hadn't seen any reason for it. But she didn't say anything. The rest of the NST went well. Baby's baseline heart rate was around 120 with really good accelerations up to 154. Go baby! And all my fluid levels are "perfect." So, good to know I'm not leaking anything that shouldn't be leaking yet.

Jump to my doctor's appointment. I had run some errands in between the two appointments so I was feeling pretty proud of myself. I was running late but not worried because the office is ALWAYS running behind. I signed in, sat down, and waited while reading my book. I got called back maybe 10 minutes later. Sat down on the table and the nurse took my BP. 140/90. WTH!? An hour ago it was perfect! What do you people do to your blood pressure cuff? It can't be me, right? I think I must have a fear of the table. Yeah, that's it.

Other things learned at this appointment: The doctor will allow me to go one week past my due date without induction "unless my blood pressure skyrockets." In which case, he wants me to deliver at 39 weeks. That would make May 22nd. To which my thought is, "Which BP readings are we using?" Because, as we have just learned, my BP is only high at YOUR office. At home I'm great. NST's office is perfect. So let's just hope he'll take that into account. I REALLY don't want to be induced. Especially since it doesn't seem to be necessary.

30 days left!

2009-04-29T08:13:00.000-07:00

Holy cow, where did the time go? Well, I know where it all went. To me procrastinating and not getting anything done, that's where. I believe I am on the verge of panic, but then I just calm down by procrastinating some more. Yes, good thinking Kate. Instead of dealing with the things you need to get done that stress you out, put them off a bit longer so you can calm down. Do you see the cycle? Yes, people, it's bad. And now there's only 30 days left and I don't feel like I'm ready for her to be here in the least. I mean, ready to have a baby - yes. Ready to see her little hands and feet and discover her personality and who's nose she has - absolutely. A place for her to sleep - yeah, not so much. Carseat installed - nope. Clothes to put her in - again, that would be a negative.
So, it is now crunch time. FMLA paperwork gets sent in tomorrow (they won't take it until 30 days before your due date). Tape goes up in the room tonight or tomorrow (gotta get a level to make sure the lines are straight). Painting *hopefully* happens this weekend. And then Mike gets to put together the crib and bribe some people into getting the heaviest dresser in the world up the stairs. I have a breastfeeding class Thursday night and a Comfort Measures for Labor class next Tuesday. And then, there's the actually getting baby stuff. My work shower was yesterday and it was great. I have to get all of that stuff unpacked and put away. My friends and family shower is coming up soon. Hopefully she hold out until then. Oh, I actually found my camera cord the other night so there will be a picture EXTRAVAGANZA in the near future.
Okey doke, now that I've rambled enough to get my mind a bit clearer, I'm off to prepare for another day of second graders. ::deep breath::

Woohoo!

2009-04-24T20:19:00.000-07:00

The roll must have meant a yes! My doctor's appointments went really well yesterday. The baby didn't really want to cooperate with the ultrasound tech though. She wouldn't face the camera and she was hiding her girly parts so we couldn't really get any good pictures. Oh well. She's measuring right on target and they say she weighs 5 and a half pounds. WOW! Go baby!

Then, off to the NST. They hooked me up to the monitors and her heart was just beating away. Everything went up and down the way it was supposed to. And I'm having contractions. Who knew? We watched them come and go and make those little hills on the monitor paper. Mike was kinda freaking out because they were happening pretty often and all he kept saying was "Aren't they supposed to go away when you lay down?" (We learned this in our birthing class. Good to know some of it stuck with him.) So, we asked the nurse. She said it's all normal and nothing to worry about. I know what they feel like now and am feeling them quite often. They come and go and aren't painful at all but it's strange. I'm not ready for her to make her appearance though so these need to go ahead and slow down.

Last was the actual doctor's appointment. We actually got in pretty quickly (a rarity at this office) and our appointment went well. I didn't get to keep my clothes on though. Boo. They did the group B strep swab thing and the doctor did an internal. OUCH! I'm "half a fingertip dilated" according to the doc. Good. Just stay right there. Oh, and my blood pressure? NORMAL! (124/72). Yaaay! So, biggest news: The doctor decided that I get to be a regular pregnant person now. No more worries about pre-eclampsia or hypertension. I don't have to go to the NST's anymore (but I chose to keep one per week just for my own peace of mind) and NO MORE PEE COLLECTIONS! You have no idea how happy I am about that.

So, there you go. A very good update. Next up: the nursery. We're getting the paint and all of the tape and stuff tomorrow. Then, we'll tape things off and hopefully get things done by next weekend. ::fingers crossed::

No L&D for us

2009-04-22T19:04:00.000-07:00

I was feeling fine the rest of the night so we stayed home. As much as I love the hospital we will eventually be laboring at, I'd rather spend as little time there as possible.

I have a day of appointments tomorrow.

First up: Ultrasound! Yaay! I haven't seen the little bugaboo since 24 weeks so I'm so excited to see what she's been up to in the past 10 weeks.

Next: Another NST (neonatal non-stress test). Laying back in the recliner and listening to the heartbeat. I'm waiting for the day actual contractions start registering. I hope her heartbeat isn't wonky this time. The first time, she wouldn't move around enough to get the right accelerations going. Last time, her heartbeat was going down too low before accelerating. Tomorrow, I'm asking for perfect heartbeat tones. You hear me baby? *poke* (she rolled so I'm going to take that as a yes, even though it could be the start of the eye rolling "yeah sure mom.")

Finally: OB/GYN. I believe this will be the first of my internals. Not looking forward to it at all. They said internals would start at 35w and tomorrow will be 34w6d. So maybe I'll get away with just a normal non-invasive appointment one more time. *fingers crossed*

And to reward myself, I have scheduled a pedicure for the afternoon. Yaaay! I'm so looking forward to it. I actually got Mike to paint my toenails for me a few weeks ago, but it will be so nice to have all the rubbings and stuff done.

So, until next time folks, stay well. I'll let you know if anything interesting happens tomorrow.

It's been so long I've forgotten

2009-04-20T17:29:00.000-07:00

I have no idea where I last left you guys off. Was it two weeks ago? Three? I have no idea so I'll just start with basics.

Everyone here is good. Baby is growing, I'm growing, Mike's growing (much to his displeasure). I swear, his belly wass keeping up with mine until about a month ago. Haha! I would love to update with pictures, but alas, my camera cord has completely run away. We can't find it anywhere. ::sigh::

I can't believe how close we're getting. A little more that 5 weeks and she's due to be here. WOW! And we have almost nothing done or ready for her. Alright Kate, get on top of things. Our plan is to paint the nursery this weekend and get all her furniture set up. I think once that's done, I'll feel I have things more under control. My showers are coming up. Work shower is at the end of the month and family/friends shower is the second weekend of March. I'm looking forward to them. Then I can start sorting and returning and washing and all that fun stuff. ::deep breaths:: We'll make it.

My blood pressure has continued to be high at doctor visits. Last time was 142/91. When I take it at home though, it's all good. I told the doctor that it's just them. They freak me out. Still no protein in my urine. No swelling. Nothing other than the high bp for any signs of pre-eclampsia. So that's all good.

The doctor is still being very jump-the-gun proactive about it though and has me doing twice weekly neonatal stress tests. I get to go in lay on a recliner hooked up to belly monitors that check for her heartbeat and any contractions. Plus I get a spiffy little push button thingy to click each time I feel her move. So far all's well. Her heartbeat goes a little low at times but then shoots right back up so no one is concerned as of now. We'll see what happens in the next few weeks.

In other news, we got rear-ended today. Before anyone freaks out, we're all good. My car is fine except a small dent and crack in my bumper. I'm just freaked out. I'm worried about every twinge that *might* not be normal. Mike's pretty calm about the whole thing. I have a feeling that by tonight we'll be making a trip to l&d. I really don't want to be *that* pregnant lady but I would rather be safe than sorry, ya know? I'll let you guys know what happens.

Now, I'm going to go lay down and rest with a good book, a cuddly pug, and two protective kitties.

Where to start?

2009-03-29T13:30:00.000-07:00

I haven't blogged in so long that I don't even know where to start. So the time between blogs has gotten even longer and then more happens and then I'm even further behind. Ahhhhhhh! It's a vicious cycle I tell ya. So, today I'll just do a listy type blog and give you the basics of the past few weeks.

1. My students know I'm pregnant. Yes, finally. I told them during a St Patrick's Day writing lesson about why I'm lucky. Their reactions: "I knew it!!!" I had to laugh.

2. My 24 hour urine collection (affectionately referred to as "The Pee Jug" by Mike and me) results came back perfectly normal. No proteins (or at least the normal amount). When I dropped it off though, the nurse had to make a stupid comment. Here I am, carrying in a bag with my jug 'o pee, feeling stupid enough. I walk back to the lab to give it to the tech. Lo and behold, she's not there. Great. So a nurse comes by and asks if she can help. I tell her I just need to drop off my 24 hour urine collection thing. She says "Oh, well do I just need to leave it?" Yep, that's all. She says, "Oh, I can take it for you then." And she does. Then she looks in the bag and says, "wow, that's a lot of urine!" Gee, thanks. My reply was, "Well, apparently you pee a lot in 24 hours."

3. All that being said, I'm still being monitored for signs of pre-eclampsia. My blood pressure at the last appointment was 148/72. The doctor came in and said, "Well, you're not going to like this, but I'm going to need you to do the 24 hour urine collections every two weeks." Ugh! I pretty much begged not to to. I asked if there was anything else. Can't I just get some specimen cups and some of the little dip stick things the doctor's office uses? Apparently no, those aren't as reliable. So, I'm on pee jug duty again today. And every other Sunday it seems for the remainder of the pregnancy. But as long as it leads to a healthy baby in the end, I'll deal. It could be worse.

I have other updates and stuff to make (with pictures!) but I need to find my camera cord before I can share. So, that's all for now.

Anyone need some "Baby Dust?"

2009-03-20T19:31:00.000-07:00

I'm offering to pass it around because apparently, my school has been hoarding it all. Remember how at the beginning of the year, there were 5 pregnant women and 1 teacher's wife pregnant as well? Yes, 6 babies due for the year. Well, then I got my BFP. That brings our total for the year to 7. There were really only two others that were possibilities to get pregnant this year. Oh yes, you guessed it - both pregnant. Due within 10 days of each other.

So seriously, it's time to pass this off. If you want some, let me know. I'll blow it off in your direction.

A little alarmist, don't you think?

2009-03-18T14:42:00.000-07:00

Or WTH is wrong with people!? I saw this article today and have decided that people are crazy. Just plain nuts. They like to use whatever scare tactics they can. I mean, I understand that lead is dangerous. I do. But really, are kids going to eat all of the text in a Madeline book? Chewing covers I have seen. Nibbling a page or two? Sure. But eating just the text? And probably a few books worth? No. Kids just don't usually eat books by the time their parents would leave them alone with these kinds of books. I love my used book shops and I still have all of my books from when I was little. Heck, I have some books from when my mom was little. Mike's mom even gave me his books from when he was little. And I plan to give these books to the baby and I have no fears that she's going to have any health probelms due to lead poisoning.

What do you guys think? Are they crazy or am I? At least I have the librarians on my side.

Yup, still high.

2009-03-16T10:53:00.000-07:00

And it's been a completely crappy morning. Arg!

The bottom line is, my bp this morning was 140/70 and I'm "borderline" and need to get a blood pressure cuff to keep track at home. I'm not on bedrest but I need to "take it easy." (as if I've been oh so busy up to now.)

And now I need to vent. I'll completely understand if you want to just skip over all of this.

Added stress #1 - I drove Mike to work this morning. Then had about a half an hour before I needed to head over to the doctor's office. I thought about going in to school just to settle the room a bit more for a sub but I was afraid I'd get stuck there. So I went to the store to get some shopping done. I get all my stuff scanned then go to pay with my debit card. Oh fabulous - it's in Mike's wallet. Thank goodness I had a credit card on me. I hate putting stuff on the card.

Added stress #2 - I packed up all the stuff into the car and headed to the doctor. I decided to call work just to make sure they had received my sub plans. No. The office manager is not in today and they can't get the plans from her e-mail. Can I please send them to someone else in the office? Umm, no, I can't. I'm in the car on my way to get a blood pressure check which I'm sure is skyrocketing right now. I decide to flip around and print off the plans myself at school. Then I'll be sure they're there.

Added stress #3 - I get to work. At this point it's 8:00 and I should be at the office. I walk into the office and run into my principal. She asks "so, your blood pressure's ok?" "Um, well, I don't know yet. My sub plans didn't get printed so I'm here to print them then I'll go to the doctor." She looked confused and I walked off. I headed into the office and asked the clerk if I could use her computer to print my sub plans. She stared at me like I had three heads. I repeated my question. She said, "well, can't you just use your printer?" I answered "well, I supposed to be at the doctor right now and I need these printed." "Why can't you just use your printer?" "FINE, I'll use my printer" and I turned and stormed out. Yes, looking back it was a little melodramatic but WTF? Couldn't she just stick in my flash drive and print up the stupid plans?

Added stress #4 - So I head all the way out to my room (it's in an outside building) and boot up the computer (which takes FOREVER and a day). It was finally ready to go and I stuck in the flash drive and go to print the plans. Oh look, your computer and printer aren't talking to each other. OF COURSE! I started messing around with settings and junk, yelling at the stupid printer and computer, and 20 minutes later, I had plans for my sub. I would have been done in 3 minutes if the clerk had just let me use her printer (I'm still bitter. Can you tell?) Off to the doctor now.

Added stress #5: I get to the doctor's office at 8:35 and tell the nurses I'm there for a blood pressure check with Vivian. "Oh, she's not at this office today." Are you fricking kidding me?! "She's at our other location. Can you go there?" I asked "Isn't there a nurse here that can take my blood pressure reading? Really, that's all I need." At this point, I'm fighting back the tears and a scream is lodged in my throat. "We'll call Vivian and see." The answer is yes, another nurse can do it but they're all in a meeting right now. "We'll call you when someone's available." Thanks.

I finally get called back about 15 minutes later and tell the nurse that I've had a really stressful morning. She takes the reading and I'm at 140/90. I break down crying and mumble "damn." She's really sweet and says "Ok sweetie, just calm down and we'll take it again in a few minutes." She brought me a glass of water and let me sit for about 5 minutes then took it again. It was down to 140/70. So, better but still high. She would call it in to the doctor and they'd get back to me.

So I head out and cling to my phone. I'm dying to know what they're going to say. I call Mike and tell him what's up. Then, I wait. And wait. And wait some more. I try calling my mom when I get home to give her the update. I can't phone out. Um, ok. Then I get an e-mail from Mike about an hour and a half later - my phone isn't working. I can't call out and apparently no one can reach me either. Great. Luckily the doctor has his number and got in touch with him. They're not putting me on bedrest but I need to take it easy. I also need to get a blood pressure cuff and start taking my blood pressure at home. If it goes high and stays high, I need to go to L&D. (let's hope that doesn't happen)

Anyways, that's my update. Hopefully my phone starts working and I can try to call the doctor myself. All in all, it could be worse but I'm still worried.

Problem #1

2009-03-13T08:08:00.000-07:00

I knew it was bound to happen. I couldn't get through this whole pregnancy with no side effects AND no possible problems. (Well, I suppose I could, but it's just not in my history for things to work out so.) (Don't worry, everything with the baby is fine and I'm most likely fine. too.)
Here's what's up:
My blood pressure was high. Even after peeing in a cup my blood pressure was high. This really concerned the doctor and the nurse. Which of course concerned me. Which of course led to sobbing in my car after the appointment (but that's jumping a bit ahead of the story). So, my blood pressure was high (147/76 or something like that) which is apparently one of the first symptoms of *possible* pre-eclampsia and/or toxemia (are these things the same? I don't think so but the doctor mentioned both.) The doctor immediately jumped to, "Well, we need to get some baseline data to start. So, I'm sending you to get blood work done to test liver and kidney function. Also, you'll need to do a 24 hour urine test." Um, excuse me. A what? "It tests for protein in the urine over a 24 hour period. There are acceptable levels and we need to see if you are over them. When we just tested your urine, it was fine. But I still want to have this as a baseline. So, just head over to the lab and they'll set everything up." And then he left because he got called to a delivery. Thanks dude.
And there's me, sitting on the stupid table thinking "Uhhh, ok. My state of mind isn't quite all there at the moment. What am I doing?" Since I'm not showing any other symptoms of either of these, I'm trying not to be overly concerned. But I am.
I head out to the lab. They take my blood and hand me a flattened brown jug that apparently I am supposed to collect my urine in (blech!!!!). The best (*sarcasm alert*) thing about all of this - we're traveling this weekend. A 7-8 hour car trip starts tonight. Then, we will be traveling back from said trip on Sunday. And I have to have this jug turned in on Monday. Which means - yes - I will be carrying a jug of pee with me into public restrooms along the way. I think I may need to buy myself some sort of bag to hide it in. This is ridiculous. I'm red with embarrassment just thinking about it.
On a good note, baby's heartbeat was 137. I'm measuring 30cm (It's supposed to be 1cm/week, so I'm 1cm over, but that's apparently normal). She's moving around like she's supposed to. So, as long as she's ok, I'll carry around my jug of pee to make sure she stays that way.

I'm loved :)

2009-03-08T08:52:00.000-07:00

So, I was given an award by not only one, but TWO, of my blogger buddies. Rach and Katie gave me the Sisterhood Award.

I couldn't be more grateful. These two women are amazing. If it wasn't in the rules that I couldn't nominate them back, they'd be on my list for sure. The amazing thing is, without the IF struggle we had, I never would have known these two. They've been there for me through highs and lows. Katie literally had the same CBEFM highs and lows along with me for a bit. Although the CBEFM came through for me though, she's still struggling. But, a plan is in place and I really hope she gets her sticky baby soon. Rach is expecting little Shorty any day now and I can't wait for for that little girl to meet her sweet and caring Mommy.

So, on with the rules and such.

The rules for accepting the award are as follows:

Put the logo on your blog or post. check

Nominate at least 10 blogs with great attitude and/or gratitude. Umm, 10 could be tough, but I'll get more than one at least

Be sure to link to your nominees in your post. check

Let your nominees know they have received the award by leaving them a comment on their blog. check

Be sure to link this post to the person who nominated you for the award. checks

Nominees:
1. Duck: She's been my best friend since 6th grade. We've been through everything together. She's closer to me than most of my actual family and I consider her my sister in every way. There are so many parts of my life that would have been so much more of a nightmare without her there by my side (or on the phone for hours at a time). She's extremely smart and motivated and he most caring and empathic person I know. I hope that some time soon(ish) we'll actually live within an easily get-togetherable distance again.

2. Shawna: I met this woman through the internet while we were both planning our weddings. She became someone that I kept in contact with even after the weddings were over. She just had two beautiful baby boys after her IF struggle. She always has a kind word or helpful thought and I think that her kids have one amazing mommy.

3. Jo: Another woman I would not have known had she not been getting married in Vegas. She's an amazing person that I actually got to meet not too long ago. Shes as beautiful in person as her personality (and that's saying a lot). She's such a thoughtful and understanding person. She's been there as a cheerleader and a shoulder to cry on throughout this struggle and I truly appreciate the friend she has become.

4. Sarah: I don't know what I would do without this woman. She and her husband are both unbelievably kind, caring, and down to earth people. We met once and instantly became friends. She's been there for mundane times like moving, the heartbreak of the miscarriage, the struggle of IF (she even gave me the CBEFM), and was there to cheer me on and cry with me when I got my BFP. Her daughter is adorable and the new one on the way (I'm thinking pink again), will be perfect too.

5. Shanny: I'm sure she's been nominated already, but how could I not nominate her. She has a bubbly personality that shines through even in her writing and her husband seems like and amazing man as well. She's been through some huge and painful struggles and my heart has broken with her. Through it all though, she finds time to send encouraging and thoughtful words out to others. And amazing person and one that makes this world brighter just by being in it. I hope that sometime soon, a little baby will be able to have her for a mommy and make that light even brighter.

6. Jen: Another woman that I would not know without having been on this IF roller coaster. She finds time to comment whenever I've truly been in need. Her words are always encouraging and mean so much. She's a teacher as well, so she gets the craziness that is teaching. She's now expecting her little twins and I'm sending all sorts of good thought her way that all goes well.

7. Sharra: I met this wonderful woman through an online TTC board. I'm so glad I did. She couldn't be sweeter and has a kind word and hopeful thought for anyone that needs it. She's finally pregnant with her little one and her description of movement as goldfish = perfect! I wish her all the best and hope that she continues to have a healthy and happy pregnancy because she deserves it.

8. Stephanie: This woman writes the most amazing blog posts. She has a way of writing that goes straight to your heart. I have cried and smiled along with her. She has been through losses and is now pregnant with twins and I just couldn't be happier. Her posts and comments have lifted me up when I needed it and I'm so glad to have "met" her.

9. Jacki: Another woman I met through the TTC board. She has an amazing personality and is another blogger that writes posts that make be laugh out loud or cry huge, fat tears. She made and sent me by Common Thread bracelet. A woman she had never talked to (IRL) and she took her time to make and send me a bracelet that meant so much. She is so deserving of the baby she's now carrying and I can't wait to "meet" her baby boy.

and 10: Chrys: Alright, so not her real name but that's how I always think of her. This woman is strong and amazing. She tells it like it is. One of the few pregnancy dreams I have had involved this woman (whom I have never met IRL). It was a little over a week after I got my BFP and I had a dream that I was going in to the doctor with my baby (who had recently been born) and Chrys was in the waiting room with a VERY pregnant belly. The next day when I got online, Chrys announced her BFP! I couldn't have been happier. She's going to make a kick-ass mommy and her little baby boy with be raised with an extraordinary amount of love and thoughtfulness.

WooHoo, I got 10! Go me! Anyways, to all of you that were nominated, you don't have to repost this (unless you really want to.) I just really felt that this was a way to thank you all for the support and love you've shown. Whether you've known me forever or just a short time, you have all toughed my life and for that I am truly grateful.

a quick belly pic post

2009-03-04T17:59:00.001-08:00

Me at 22 weeks.

Me and the belly at 24 weeks. And I will no longer be wearing that shirt.

Me and the belleh at 25 weeks. That shirt wrinkles like crazy.

I don't have any pics from the last few weeks because my camera wasn't working. It is now, but I'm not getting dressed and ready for a picture. So I'll take one his Friday at 28 weeks. Holy crap - can you guys believe I'm already at almost 28 weeks?!

Oh, and on a side note, I have outgrown a pair of maternity pants. They were the first ones I bought and at the time, I thought they would NEVER fit. They were HUGE! Then I got some of the comfy belly ones and put the other pair to the back of my closet. I had to get them out today because all of my other pants were in the wash. And they are tight! What?! You can outgrow maternity clothes? At 7 months? And I don't even feel that big.

I'm so awesome at keeping secrets!

2009-03-04T16:37:00.000-08:00

I didn't even tell you guys. You should be very proud. Anyways, here's the big secret. Mike got a new computer! As a surprise from some friends of his. A surprise from some online friends. They got him a new computer. ::jaw drops on floor::

A bit of background: My husband is a computer geek. Big time. And he plays tons of games on the computer. He has been very sad recently (well, for about a year) that our computer is becoming obsolete and he can't play any of the new games coming out. We just haven't been able to afford a new computer for him though. So, he's been saving money here and there to be able to get himself the stuff he wants. By our calculations, he'd probably have enough by Christmas. (By which point we'd probably need the money for something baby related).

Anyways, Mike plays a game called CounterStrike. It's an online war game thingy (that's a technical term). It's played with other people. Mike's been playing with the same group of guys for about two years. All of those guys live in the middle of the country and work at a big computer store. They keep Mike updated on sales and other cool computer geek stuff that they have and they know that Mike's been saving.

Mike's birthday is coming up and so the guys said they were going to send him a picture of themselves as a present (this is something that doesn't come across as strange if you know the guys). About a week ago, I had a message from a strange man with an Australian accent on my cell (long story as to how they had my number). The message says basically "hey, this is the guys from the game your husband plays online. We all got together and are sending him a new computer for his birthday (a quote "because we figured - why the hell not"). It'll be at your house next week. Keep it a secret." WHAT?! Are you frickin' kidding me?! I was at a complete loss for words and was glad that it was a message. I probably would have passed out if I had heard the news AND had to react in a coherent manner. But I now had to keep a HUGE secret from Mike for a week. How the heck was I going to do that? And to make it worse, the guys kept talking to him online about how much he had saved and the things he wanted for his new computer. Knowing the whole time that a new one was on the way.

To make as already very long story a bit shorter, the computer came today. And I kept the secret! Allow me to show you the utter happiness of my husband.

Happy birthday honey. No one deserves it more.

NO GD FOR MEEEEEEEE!

2009-02-21T09:38:00.000-08:00

Hooray and hoorah and huzzah I say! I never heard back from the doctor after my glucose tolerance test. It's been over a week now and so I feel safe to say that I passed. Thank goodness!

Now, I know that gestational diabetes is not the worst thing that could happen. Heck, it's probably the most easily managed of all of the potentially dangerous complications. And, it would lead me to make even healthier food choices for me and little bit in there. But can I just say that I'm glad I can have a cupcake today? It's my blog so I say yes, it is ok. I am glad I can have a cupcake today!

I will be heading to the fabulous Retro Bakery and will be indulging in a little yumminess. Mmmm, the flavors. My current fave is coffee and donuts but the hopscotch is always a steadfast and delicious standby. (I'm sorry to torture any of you that either a) have GD and are right now cursing my existence or b) do not live near a fabulous cupcake place (sorry Duck))

Then, on a sugar high, I will start in on "Project Get Ready for Baby." Step one: Holy crap get some stuff cleared out of the spare room/nursury/it's-been-a-catch-all-room-since-we-moved-in. I would post a picture but my camera is out of batteries (yeah, that's a good excuse ;) Really, it's scary in there.

So, wish me luck. I'll need it. But at least I'll have a cupcake to get me through.

Already?!

2009-02-20T17:36:00.000-08:00

Holy crap, I'm under 100 days! Holy crap, holy crap! I have waaaaaaaay too much to still get done (heck, started even) to have under 100 days left in this pregnancy. Wish me luck people. This weekend will start "Operation Prepare for Baby."

My school is stupid

2009-02-16T16:17:00.000-08:00

Again, I shall regale you with tales of the stupidity that is my school. You may remember this post from earlier this school year. Well this time it's not really the administration's fault, but still. HUGE oversight on everyones part.

So, a few weeks ago we were preparing fire drill. This may be a little known fact to all you non-teachers out there, but word about coming fire drills spreads quickly throughout a school. Especially if you are not in your classroom. I have the advantage of being in the "annex" of our school and so my door faces the school across the street. The fire truck always does the drill at that school first. So, if I hear their alarm go off and see the trucks outside their school, I know to expect a drill at out school within the next half hour. I make sure that I don't start any lessons that can't be stopped quickly (investigating mealworms for example) and I try to keep my kids in the room (no bathroom breaks).

Well, this drill was set to happen just as second grade was heading to prep. I quickly walked my kids to P.E. and went back to my room to grab my attendance folder and emergency bag. I was standing outside my room waiting for the alarm to sound when another second grade teacher came around the corner and asked, "Do you have a pull in your room? The fireman is just around the corner and I need to find the nearest pull and there isn't one in my room." Oh crap. The fireman is just around the corner and here I am standing around. (another side note to all non teacher people - the fireman do not pull the alarm. They randomly grab a teacher and say something like "there's a fire in your trash can" and you have to follow the procedure and pull the alarm. This has never happened to me and is one of my biggest fears in school. Strange I know.) Anyways, I say yes and both of us duck into my room. I turn to prepare myself for the possibility of pulling the alarm. And there is no pull.

Wait - What?! No pull?! I know I have one! I turn to the other side. No pull there either. I swear I'm not crazy. I know I had one! Instead all I find is an electric cover. Like a light switch plate with no switch. CRAP! Now what will I do if the fireman comes to my door.

See it there with the arrows? That's from the beginning of the school year.

The other teacher and I decide to hide (Yes, we really are grown ups. I swear.) I turn out the lights and we hide behind the armoire (the one on the right in the picture).

A few minutes pass with no alarm. Hmm, this is kinda strange. We brave walking to the window to peer out and see classes streaming out. Umm, WTF? I guess we should head out, too. So we do. Although we hear no alarm (and believe me, a fire alarm is not a sound you can miss. and even if you do, flashy lights should be going off as well.)

Turns out, the alarm system in the annex was somehow disconnected and never fixed. Oh fabulous. So if there really was a fire, we would have no way of knowing. And all the pulls throughout the ENTIRE school were taken out. There is now only ONE pull in the front office. (the poor teacher that had to pull the alarm was frantic and on the verge of tears.) Apparently, the school district people came through and "updated" our alarms to make them more sensitive so pulls shouldn't be needed. (does anyone else see a disaster waiting to happen?) The problem is, they didn't bother to tell anyone this. It came as a shock to teachers and administrators alike.

Yet somehow, we passed our fire drill. I know for a fact that one second grade teacher was in her room throughout the entire drill (because of the no-alarm-going-off issue.) Whatever. Hopefully we all don't burn.

Until next time, be fire safe internet people. And send some fire safe vibes my way while you're at it. lol.

Is it strange to feel this way?

2009-02-16T15:21:00.000-08:00

This post has been floating around in my head for quite awhile, but after recent events and reading this post by JackiTiger (who also made my common thread bracelet for me), I feel that it need to be written down.

I can't help but feel like I'm a faker. Yes, I'm pregnant and I accept this (most days). But in my head, I'm still suffering through IF. It's so strange. I feel the baby moving around. We had an u/s on Friday and everything looks good (She's measuring right on track with 150bpm heartbeat and my blood pressure was finally down as well). And I could not be happier about all of this. But when I go out, I find myself being self conscious of my belly. I love it and stare in fascination when I'm at home, but out and about, I wonder who I'm hurting with it. Not physically, but emotionally.

I know that there were days when we were struggling to conceive that it just about killed me to walk into stores and see the bellies. I know there are other IFers out there who still suffer with this. Target was often the worst and some days I would actually avoid shopping there, even though I really needed to, just to save myself the emotional drain. You other TTTCers know what I'm talking about, right?

Mike and I were out "shopping" (really, just wandering around in shops) all day Saturday and there must have been at least six visibly pregnant women in every store. I swear that there must have been some pregnant water going around because there are pregnant women EVERYWHERE! I actually turned to Mike and said, "If we were still TTC, today would have been a day I would have gone home and cried." He looked at me like I had three heads. I had to explain the frustration and anger that I sometimes felt. And days when there were pregnant women all over the place were the worst.

The whole ordeal stressed me out. I kept wondering if any of the other women I saw had struggled. Were there any women I was passing by that were on the verge of tears and praying that they could just leave the store as soon as possible because of my belly? I wish there was some way to say, "We struggled for this baby. 18 months of perfectly timed everything and monitors and drugs and one miscarriage before we got here. Please know you're not alone. Talk to me." I mean, I have my common thread bracelet but only some people know about that. And I've never seen anyone else wearing one.

So, in an open letter to all of you women I pass throughout this pregnancy (and into the time I'm holding a baby in my arms), I love my baby and I hope that somehow, you will know that I'm thinking of all of you in your struggles. I'm praying that soon, I'll pass you in a store and smile at your growing belly. I hope that one day, we'll all be able to lift this weight that IF places on our shoulders and move past the frustration and anger we sometimes feel. I'm thinking of you and sending you strength.

The Golden Rod's Journey

Holy crow, she's 2!

Wordless Wednesday

I started a new blog

Wordless Wednesday

We're getting "old"

Have you heard of Dr. Jean?

Wordless Wednesday

Fooooood!

wordless wednesday

A PSA from me to you.

"Where do you get your news?"

Blooming Bridget

She amazes me...

Coming clean

An autumn update...with VIDEOS!

Your science lesson for the day

A problem with children's books (Part 2)

So much time, so little blogging

A problem with children's books (Part 1)

New blog

My brilliant idea

Oh my gosh, my baby is a year old!

Bridget took her first steps!

My how things change

Bridget is signing

Volunteering

Happy St. Patrick's Day

I love food.

A walk through time

Peek-a-boo!

I'm still here.

Bridget and the Fish

Guess who's back!

She's gone

Fail!

Um, yeah, I guess

Not sure where to go from here

Happy Halloween!

It hasn't stopped!

One year ago today

New and improved

We're good to go

The damn dog!

A quicky

What a difference a year makes

New beginnings

Magical mysical powers!

What about the rest of the year?

My thighs are lifesavers!

She's growing so fast!

I'm a party girl!

You must be this chubby...

Worst.Morning.Ever.

Are you ready for some?

My child is amazing!

I'm back to being a teacher

I think I'll be alright

I feel like crap

A new toy

Success!

I cooked!

Oh glorious sleep

8 oz!

I'm so scared *updated

Happy one month!

I have a question.

She's sleeping

Quick, quick

She's coming HOME!

We're all still here

she's here

She's on her way

It's been almost 41 weeks

I think I've hit the breaking point

Nothing to report **updated**

Because I'm bored

Due date = still no baby

Still no baby

No news and some rambling

Nothing to report updated