Happy 6 Months Little Man

I've always known that time goes fast. I realize it even more having a growing baby in my sights every day.

He has a vocabulary now. Okay, it's a language all his own, but he's working on it. I especially enjoy his happy squeal. So hard to explain it. And whenever I get the video camera out he freezes. (He likes the flash on the still camera. I think that's what he's waiting for on the video camera.)

He has accomplished rolling from his back to belly to his back again. In fact he travels around the livingroom this way. We are slowly childproofing everything. Perhaps we're moving too slow.

Hat's off to our little man on his half birthday!!!

It's Spring!

I am very happy it is finally spring. Even though we had a mild winter here in Ontario it was still winter. The one season I could do without. Cupid agrees. She cries to get out knowing it is spring.






She looks for her little friends. Makes sure there are no trespassers on her yard.




But it is still to cold to stay out for long. Not five minutes later she is at the door crying to come in.


"Meh!"

Smiley Guy

I still don't understand how my husband can be grumpy in the morning when we are greeted by this face.

My Giant

Little D is growing like a weed, as they say. He is only 21 weeks (or 5 months if you prefer) and he is already wearing 6-12 month sleepers. And they are snug on him. I'm not really concerned. I was a big baby like Little D and now I'm average size. And with stores like Value Village around I can get great deals on baby clothes. And of course donate what I am willing to let go of (which is not much - I'm thinking of our future sibling for D...;) ).

I've been calling him Babyzilla.

Appreciating Nap Time

When the little man was still newborn someone told me that though I felt he was a lot of work, having a child would only become more work as he grows older and starts moving around.

Little D is now rolling from his back to his belly. He hasn't mastered rolling back yet. Which makes him moan once he's been on his belly for too long.

He is vocalizing A LOT. And loudly. And he sounds like he's in pain or uncomfortable. But he's just playing, holding his toy monkey in the air while he squeals. I like to call this game King Kong. Once I realize he's just playing I am quite relieved.

He's teething. Which means lots of drool and crankiness. And (once again - I say it a lot since D has been born) time sure flies. This coming Friday he will be five months old. Which means he might have some teeth next month!

Tending to him is wonderful. And a lot of work (which is the main reason I haven't written on here very often lately), which is why I appreciate nap time. A little bit of me time.

I hear him starting to wake up now...

What can I say?

But what a cutie!

Family Day

Yesterday was Family Day in Ontario. Last year was the first Family Day, a new stat holiday the Ontario Government FINALLY gave us (yep, now that I don't work on Mondays!). All though I found it odd that we got mail delivery!?!?

Last year, at this time we were trying to get pregnant. I had already done three or four pregnancy tests anytime my period was a millisecond late - much to my disappointment they were all negative. (I had bought some from the dollar store. Hubby thought they were defective because they only cost one dollar. He ran out and bought some from the drug store just to be sure.)

My period was a couple of days late by the time Family Day rolled around. I really wanted to pee on a stick that first Family Day, but I thought I might be jinxing it. So I waited until the day after. I was strangely calm when I told hubby we finally got a positive. (Being superstitious and romantic it is not a coincidence that I was pregnant almost 2 weeks after the anniversary of our first date - okay maybe TMI?).

This year I find it nice that because we now have Family Day on our calendars I can remember the first time I knew of Little D's existence. :)

Four Months and No One Can Believe It

Time is flying by so quickly. Little D is now 16 weeks old. That's four whole months. Mama and Daddy are pros at this parenting thing already, even though every other day Little D throws us a curve ball. He cannot walk or crawl, yet he is bored of lying on his play mat. We now have to strap him into his swing or he will wiggle out of it. And the bumbo seat was almost tipped over this morning. Guess it was just too restricting for the little man.

He hasn't turned over on his own since that one time. But he's really working on it. I am excited about each milestone that he passes. At the same time I'm trying to savour every moment of his babyhood because I know how quickly it will soon pass.



Little D's getting the hang of this rolling over business...any day now.

Early Valentine's Day

Today marks the fourth anniversary of our first date. Tonight will also be the first time Jamma (the name my nephew gave my mother-in-law) comes over to babysit. I'm feeling good about it. I'm sure D and Jamma will have a great time together. It does seem like a big deal though. Hubby and I have not left the house TOGETHER without our little man in tow since he was born.

The night hubby and I met up there was a terrible snow storm. I had to find a detour because there was an accident on the main road. He was already there waiting for me - rose in hand- his hair wet from the snow. We had our first kiss that night too.

Every year since we have always celebrated this day. Today is our Valentine's Day!

Yipee for me

I fit into another pair of jeans from my closet. I was so happy to find this out. I wore the said jeans until they were screaming to go in the laundry. That was after I thought it would be a good idea to do an art project with Little D.

For Christmas one of the ladies I clean house for gave us a kit to paint baby's hand and foot prints onto canvas. Since I am still in the process of working on D's room I thought this would be a good idea.

Well I guess I should have waited. The hand prints don't really look like hands (though the feet turned out OK). I still hung the canvases in his room. They are his first works of art after all!



Yes we did get more paint on ourselves than we got on the canvas! But hey my jeans fit! And little D is going to audition for the Blue Man Group!

We've made it to the third month - woo hoo

The little man is growing like crazy. Almost double his birth weight at three months old. Watching him learn about the world and himself has been a real eye opener to how fast time really does fly.

Little D now has his own vocabulary. "La" means he's hungry. "Ahgoo" I think means everything is cool. Then there is "boooer" and some other cute sounds to fill out the conversation. And I swear he says "Mama". Okay so he probably has no personal meaning for saying it, but it won't stop me from melting with love when ever he says it.

He has been quite fussy these past few days. And since we've had it so easy with him we are a bit confused as to what is his problem. I have only three ideas. One - he's bored. We've been entertaining him with the same toys for the last three months he needs something new. This is easily fixed as he got spoiled this Christmas and still has some toys in the packaging. Two - he just wants to be left alone. Just when we think we've figured out his schedule he goes and changes it again. Mama thinks he wants to play when he just wants to nap. At least he is still sleeping through the night!!! And three - he's teething early. He has been drooling extra hard lately. He likes to chew on his hands. And when trying to feed him sometimes all he does is gum away at the nipple of his bottle.

I guess like everything else we've had to learn about caring for little D we will have to figure out as we go. Of course any suggestions would be appreciated. Its a lot of trial and error, this baby raising stuff!

Baby’s in Black

When I got home from work today I was trying to be happy. My moods are terrible at this time of the year. Every little thing bothers me. I could start a war over the beard trimmings Hubby leaves in the sink. Things that shouldn’t be so serious become life and death to me. So I try to calm myself down.

Of course just seeing little D and how happy he is to see me brightens my day. Also the fact that there weren’t any dirty dishes sitting in the sink. :)

After dinner I take little D downstairs with me so I can check my email and if I’m lucky facebook and maybe read some blogs. Of course he started to get restless just sitting in my lap. I swear this kid is going to be walking next month. He’s constantly bouncing on our laps when we hold him. He also lifts his big feet in turn. Right. Left.

So I put on the album Beatles for Sale. That’s what I needed. A little music therapy. I start singing along and little D starts really bouncing. We spin in the chair and he gets a fascinated look on his face. I stand up and start dancing him around the room still singing, not feeling silly. Little D made it not silly.

By the time we got to Baby’s in Black he was asleep in my arms. My beautiful baby.

Cabin Fever

I'm getting quite restless being in the house the last few days. It's too cold for me to bother going out if I don't have to. Yes, I am a wimp when it comes to cold weather!

So I've been puttering. I went thru the little drawers on the cabinet the I hung in the kitchen (or rather it hung itself ;) )

I found this:

I love finding old treasures!

Happy Ukrainian Christmas!

Day One

As I lay awake this morning at 4am, while hubby fed little D (Yes he's back on 4am feedings. The holidays have thrown us all off.) I contemplated whether to exercise or not. I still have this cold that got worse at the four day mark. Then I thought that I could not start my fitness goal with a lousy excuse.

Once Hubby woke up this morning he and little D hung out while I ventured to the basement to work out for a whole hour. I used an old Kathy Smith work out tape - Instant Workout. It's broken down into three 20 minute sessions - toning, cardio and stretching. I figured if my breathing got too bad I would at least have 20 minutes done. I managed to do the whole hour. big pat on the back for me. Now to keep with it!

I am going to give myself a break on work days. I clean houses. That is a work out in itself. If I can squeeze in a bit of cardio when I get home then I will be doing really well. I can't promise myself anything though. I do have a baby and a Hubby (who's idea of cooking dinner is making Kraft dinner or ordering pizza).

For today I will just say to myself - a job well done. I feel good :)

You Say you Want A Resolution? Well you know…

In years past I have tried to make resolutions. Then for a few years I claimed how silly resolutions are. They never work. I was still smoking years after making resolutions to quit. That was always my resolution when I did make one.

The trick for me was to try to get pregnant. A healthy baby was a great motivator to quit smoking for me. And you know what? Maybe this is a coincidence or I have stumbled upon a great fertility secret but as soon as I was down to that silly half cigarette a day I became pregnant after working on it for nine months. What a chore!! ;) I dropped that last half a day like a hot potato.

Now that I don’t smoke anymore (though sadly the urge strikes once in awhile) and my baby is almost 3 months old (where does the time go?) and I still cannot fit into my pre-pregnancy jeans my New Years resolution is to fit into these said jeans. I have about 15 pairs. All really nice. It would be a shame to not wear them again.

I decided to start this plan just before Christmas. Which was a big mistake. Too much food around. And Baba sure knows how to bake them cakes! And for some reason since I was pregnant I no longer have control around sweets. I used to be able to pass on dessert, now it almost seems essential!

When I was way younger and wanted to lose some weight all I had to do was think about it and presto five pounds gone.

The last time I lost this goaled amount of weight I hadn’t planned on it or tried at all. I was suffering severe anxiety over dumping Mr. Rock and Meeting Mr. Right. I was also chain smoking. With my stomach clenched from my anxiousness I couldn’t eat very much. I think it took a week or two and I lost ten pounds. I DO NOT RECOMMEND THIS METHOD. Very unhealthy. And it would likely come back to bite you or me in the ass.

So since I do not plan to start smoking again I need a new plan which I am trying to figure out. I’ve been trying to work out with Wii fit plus, but I don’t feel it pushes me enough. On to plan B (which hasn’t yet been planned) for the fitness routine and some self control and careful menu planning. And resisting Hubby’s requests to visit Burger King! I must resist the Whopper. I cannot live with just three pairs of pants! And I refuse to buy more at this size damn it!!!

Happy New Year

Little D and I have colds, but we both managed to be up at midnight to wish Hubby a happy New Year. Its still sounds surreal...Happy 2010.

May this year be even better than last. I'm not sure if I can top it. I was telling my mom that 2009 was the best year of my life because of Little D. What will I tell future children, I mean child. ;)

Happy New Year

As we approach the New Year I look back on how far I’ve come. How much I have to be happy for. If I had been told 6 or 7 years ago that I would be married (to a gorgeous man) and have a beautiful (sorry Honey, Handsome) baby, I would have said “ya right! I’m going to be a crazy old cat lady and like it!” Even though my deepest desire was to be a mom.

Growing up I felt unworthy of any boy’s attention. Despite the fact that I was usually someone’s chosen “mommy” in our childhood games of “house”. I always had a crush that I would be too shy to even talk to. Oh, I had plenty of guy friends, but the moment I thought of any of them as potential love interests I would clam up and be too nervous to be around them.

As I got older and had a “best friend” who fed off negative energy (you know – the emotional vampire. I’m sure everyone knows at least one. They aren’t as sexy and charming as Edward from Twilight. No sparkles here!) these feelings of self doubt did not go away but grew. Amazing what the spoken word can do to someone. Being told that you are not worthy everyday, and you deem yourself not worthy.

If I had a crush and told my friend she would respond in one of two ways. Either “Oh he likes me not you. Can’t you see it?” or if the crush showed an ounce of interest in me “He’s just going to use you for sex!”

I put up with this for more than a decade, despite my family’s urging me to stay away from this vampire. Finally, after a fight over work with her mom and my mom I broke off this relationship for good. Good riddance to bad rubbish!

Quite amazingly my confidence began to grow. I now saw myself as beautiful, smart and worthy of whatever I wanted out of life.

I blame my friendship with this girl and my subsequent low self-esteem for the fact that I was left with very few friends. I was lonely.

It hadn’t initially occurred to me to use a dating website but upon looking for activities online that might help me meet people I stumbled upon Plenty of Fish. It’s free so I gave it a whirl.

I met a guy almost right away. A few actually but I thought I might want to weed out the biker looking dude (although he might have been a better choice).

I sound shallow, but I lowered my standards in the looks department and decided Mr. Rock was a good choice and agreed to meet him in person. He seemed smart, funny, kind and he liked cats. He was undecided about kids.

We dated for almost a year when I finally let myself see the truth. Mr. Rock was bad in bed. Mr. Rock never introduced me as his girlfriend. Never introduced me to his mom (though I met his dad by coincidence). Though he had a cat that passed away just before we met, he did not want another. And most daunting for me Mr. Rock did not want a wife or child! I think he just liked having a younger (by ten years) woman in his bed even if he didn’t seem to brag about it. I dumped him.

And strange as it may sound dumping him gave me a huge confidence boost. I don’t have to put up with what I don’t want!

I did feel a little guilty that I wasn’t that upset about the break-up. I asked my mom if she thought it was okay if I went back on the dating site. She said if I felt ready I should go for it. And I did.

I went back reassuring myself that being married and a mom would be nice but wouldn’t be imperative to a happy life for me. I could enjoy being the crazy cat lady and have as many cats as I want!! I think knowing this and truly feeling this way in my heart lead me to meeting the man of my dreams.

Within about a week we met for our first date. It sounds cheesy, most especially to you dear readers, but we both agree it was love at first site. I was hesitant for a short while that something bad would happen. That one day I would realize he wasn’t who he pretended to be. But thankfully, I worried for nothing. I learned that we are a lot alike. What you see is what you get. No mind games.

We’ve been together for almost four years. Married for a year and a half with a beautiful (handsome) healthy baby boy. And we have four cats. (After telling Hubby the story of Mr. Rock he now refers to us happily as the crazy cat couple).

I used to get depressed around this time of year. I thought I would never find someone to share my life with. My mom always reassured me “For every Jill there’s a Jack”.

This year I have it all. I feel so blessed. It’s a wonderful (life) year! A family of my own!

Seven Weeks (and two days)

Little D slept thru the night. When I woke up this morning I had to think hard - did I get up last night? (I hadn't had my coffee yet!)

He is more alert for longer periods now. I am coming to appreciate his play mat that his Gramma gave him (an early Christmas present). He is now batting his hands at the hanging toys and amusing himself. Sure it's fun to play with a baby, but it can also be very tiring!

And the smiles just keep coming! Especially if either Hubby or I have been at work for a few hours. Upon our arrival home Little D will greet us with the most beautiful smile I have ever seen.

His whole being makes the swollen ankles, morning sickness and scary c-section (almost) vanish from my memory.

Santa Visit

Daniel met Santa for the first time yesterday. Of course he slept through the whole visit.

It's Almost Christmas!!!

and Little D has had enough of the Christmas photos already!

Mommy Brain

Way back when Little D was just a few days old (it does seem like ages ago) I had taken him to the store with me. When I gave the cashier the wrong change she said it was because I suffered from mommy brain. And then reassured me that my brain would go back to normal in about fifteen years. :0

Today I use mommy brain as an excuse for not having taken any pictures… Yesterday the three of us went to Baba’s house for dinner. Little D’s other Great Grandma was up for a visit. The family (our end of the family, that is!) doesn’t get together very often so it was nice to have the opportunity. We all had a very nice dinner. My Uncle and his lovely wife took lots of photos (thank goodness), but for some reason I didn’t think to take any of my own. Duh!

So I am waiting for an email full of lovely pictures… (hint hint!!)

Hoping mommy brain doesn’t take over too much or I might forget my own name. It’s Mommy, right?

File it under strange or lucky?

Due to the work being done at Baba's I've been gathering the rest of my stuff to take home with me. Yesterday I brought home the little cabinet that my dad made a few years back. I had been trying to figure out the best place for it and decided the kitchen could use some spiffing up. I moved the cork board. There were two screws in the wall already. On a whim I tried the cabinet on them and ta-da!!! I couldn't believe it! Guess it was meant to be.

Almost Five Weeks

Little D is doing well in his own bedroom at night. Yesterday he practically demanded to have a nap in his own bed. He kept crying and nothing would soothe him until Daddy finally put him down in his bed. Three cheers for Daddy!

I am amazed at how fast time is going by and how fast he is growing. Although I am looking forward to getting to know Little D as he learns to talk and walk I know I will miss him in this baby stage (I guess that’s how people end up with siblings).

I have been sorting through his clothes every other week, putting aside all the little outfits that don’t fit him anymore. I am stunned by how small some of those onsies are. He used to fit into that not too long ago.

I am currently working on getting a cute picture of D's big feet. This is the cutiest so far...still working on it!

The Chandler

Are you familiar with the Friends episode when Chandler and Monica are trying to get their engagement picture taken and Chandler keeps making weird faces for the camera. Well my mom is normally like that. As soon as a camera comes close to her she freezes up and then ends up hating all pictures taken or her.

I have found a cure for her. A grandson!

One Month Old

Time is flying. Our little guy is now one month old.
It is one of those situations where time goes by fast and slow at the same time. The fact that our little guy is growing so fast is amazing. At 2am when he doesn’t want to sleep, the clock seems to stand still as I try to convince him that mommy needs some shut eye.

Just the other day we had dinner at my mother-in-laws and she commented that he “doesn’t have that infant look anymore. He looks like a baby now.” That’s because he got his mommy’s big head. (A lot of the hats I have for him do not fit and he hasn’t even worn them yet!)

Last night was the first night that Baby slept in his own room. I resisted my urge to go to him every time he made a noise. For the most part I think things went well.

Hubby and I are starting to sound like those parents I used to make fun of. I find myself (half joking mind you) saying that our baby is advancing faster than other babies. He could practically lift his own head right from birth! Okay, maybe not that fast, but his neck muscles are pretty strong for only four weeks.

His coos and gurgles make me fall in love with him over and over again. Oh and that killer smile (or IS it gas?) has my heart skipping a beat.
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About a week ago we received a bill from the hospital. I was confused. We don’t have insurance, just OHIP. I asked to be on a ward because that is covered. I know I was put in a semi-private room, however I figured I was there because I had heard the nurses say that the maternity ward was really busy.

So anyway, the bill was for $420. Not exactly chump change – especially for new parents. So hubby called and the person in billing said that I had signed for it and that was that. He tried to argue that IF I did sign for it, I had just gotten out of surgery and was still drugged up. Nothing they could do about it.

My gung-ho Mother-in-law heard about this and decided to investigate further on our behalf. MIL got them to fax her a copy of this form I supposedly signed. HA! Not my signature!! Someone messed up big time. I am relieved because the thought of taking a hospital to court didn’t sound so easy to me. I thank God for my mother-in-law.

I do wonder if they will be able to get payment from the person that did sign the form?!

New Banner

I finally got my new banner finished and posted. Trying to catch up on lots of stuff while recovering from the c-section and this stubborn cold.
Hoping to write more soon.


My little elf!

Numb, Scared and Ripped Apart

I remember telling several medical personnel that I have a right pelvic kidney. It works, it’s just in the wrong place. The Doctor said this would not effect the procedure.

So I was rolled into the operating room. The anaesthesiologist explained my options. I just said yes. I was scared.

I began to panic when it felt like the operation was starting and hubby wasn’t with me. Finally he was holding my hand. I felt pressure and tugging. It felt like the baby was suctioned in my belly. I could almost hear an audible “pop” as they pulled him out. I remember thinking “Nothing else has gone according to the plan. He’s going to end up being a girl and I have nothing for her to wear.”

Then he was out. The doctor confirmed that I had a little boy. Hubby told me to look behind him. The nurses were cleaning him up. “He looks like me!” I said.

(I am the baby in the black and white and my little boy is in colour)


As they removed the placenta I swear I could feel them moving my kidney. I became vocal about it – like these doctors don’t know what they are doing.

Hubby was able to hold the baby. As they finished with me, hubby and baby were carted away to a recovery room. I soon followed. Nurse Paula was with me again as the drugs wore off. I shook like crazy and was upset I couldn’t hold my baby. Hubby brought him over to me. Then I was carted off to my room where I remained from Friday to Sunday.

I hated being in the hospital and asked to be sent home a day early. I was originally supposed to be discharged on Monday.

This precious little creature is so worth it!

Mother Load

Hubby finally reappeared as the nurse prepared for baby’s arrival. He had driven an hour to pick up my mom and an hour back to the hospital. And though I was mad that he left me for so long I was so happy my mom was with me.

Eventually, I was told to push. I couldn’t feel my contractions so I really relied on hubby to tell me when they started (he could see the monitor). I had a hard time pushing in the right spot but eventually everyone could see the top of the baby’s head crowning. Yep! He was right there! But more pushing did nothing. Part of my cervix was holding him back and he was “sunny side up” as the nurse explained it. The doctor was called in to assess the situation. I was exhausted.

At first the vacuum was suggested for delivery. I was agreeing to anything. Lying in wait for 24 hours I just wanted it to be over. Then the dreaded words came. Baby’s heart rate had dropped and I should have a c-section. I was brave at first. “So much for a birth plan.” Everyone laughed. I joked with the nurse (nurse Paula is an amazing lady!). I apologized for ruining her vaginal delivery record. Then we all became quiet, waiting for O.R. to be prepped. I began to cry. Nurse Paula encouraged my tears. “It’s alright to cry.” But I tried to be brave.

Is this Baby Ever Gonna Come?

Hubby stayed with me at the hospital over night on a pull-out chair/bed. I kept waking up, noting that nothing was happening. I thought, “Damn this epidural is great! I don’t feel a thing.” I slept as advised to save my strength for labour.

By morning hubby was really restless. He needed to get out and though I can’t blame him I did feel abandoned. He told me he was going home to check the cats and eat. He’d be back in an hour.

I was 8 cm dilated and it was taking about 2 hours per cm at this point.

While hubby was gone, things started to progress and the nurse said we could try pushing soon. I was upset – hubby wasn’t back yet and he was taking longer than he said he would. I started thinking he was home enjoying himself – loving wife forgotten about. Or worse, he’d been in an accident and our baby would be fatherless. I started to cry.

And the birth plan went flying out the window

The nurses were given my birth plan upon my admission. I was aware that a birth plan could not be written in stone. Anything can happen (or in my case nothing could happen) and we'd have to go to plan B (the unplanned). So despite not wanting induction I was given some pills to start contraction and told to walk the hospital corridors. I did begin to experience some contractions. More like menstrual cramps, which were nothing compared to the cramps I had as a teenager. Is this it? Screw the epidural!

Back to the room for more monitoring. Baby still good. Dilation starting slowly, but no regularity to contractions. What the Hell!

Eventually Oxytocin was administered through my IV. (I've always been creeped out by IVs sticking out of people arms or hands. I hadn't ever had one myself until this point in my life. I had to distract myself from it. Always afraid I'm gonna rip it out by accident.)

It did look like the oxytocin was working. Contractions started to pick up. It's all kind of fuzzy but I was sent to a delivery room and continued to be monitored. The nurse suggested that I walk to get things moving. As soon as I stood up I got a doozy of a contraction and wanted my drugs now. Looking back I wish I hadn't started the drugs so soon. But I was scared and tired.

That night I was given my epidural. And so began my lying in bed for who knows how long!?

So It Began...

I left you all with the exciting announcement that my water broke at 2am October 22nd.

The night before as we watched Heroes on DVD the baby was kicking like crazy. I mean it looked like I was about to pop out an alien right through my stomach. Feet and hands pushing out all over the place I knew something was up.

Once my water broke and I woke up hubby with the exciting news, I called the hospital and was told to stay home and wait for contractions which should start by morning. I tried to go back to sleep after hubby and I changed the wet bedding. (My water really broke, not just a trickle.)

I was too excited to sleep so I paced the house hoping to encourage contractions. I googled like a mad woman, wondering where these darned contractions were! They were very mild and irregular. I did finally go back to bed and made sure the baby was still kicking.

At about 9:30 that morning I was in the shower and a small blood clot came out and I was alarmed. I called the hospital again and they told me to come in. Turns out it was just my mucus plug - perfectly normal. I was put on the fetal monitor for a bit, still no real contraction. I was sent home and instructed to go for a walk. Come back around 2pm.

Hubby and I went to the squirrel park, excited and nervous. I kept saying that too bad baby didn't wait a day. The 23rd is hubby's birthday. I was experiencing some contractions, but still nothing significant.

At 2pm we went back to the hospital despite the lack of contractions. I was beginning to wonder what the hell was going on. I had read that once the water broke it was important to monitor the baby by 12 or 24 hours in case of infection. The triage nurses did wonder why I came in when nothing was happening. I've never done this before - Give me a break!

To be continued...

It's Starting...ever so slowly

My water broke at around 2am this morning. I called triage and since I didn't have contractions was told to stay home rest, eat and walk around and make sure I feel the baby moving. Everything seems to be fine. Except that I've only gotten a few contractions. Nothing consistent!

I'm not sure how much longer I should wait. I did a google search, but some of those answers were stupid. One person suggested sex to bring on the contractions. One with broken waters is to do no such thing as it could cause infection.

So for now I am going to walk around the house. Hoping to bring on the contractions naturally. Then I'll call the triage again and ask them how long I should wait. I would like it to happen on its own. I've heard drug induced labour is intense.

Wish me luck...I'm so excited!!!

39 Weeks…We’re getting very near the end

All there is left to do is wait. I’m terrible at waiting. We see the doctor again on Wednesday; hopefully she will see more progress. Or hey, we get to skip the appointment and go straight to the hospital.

Really, I am hoping for the baby to be born this Friday – his daddy’s birthday!

38 and a half weeks…or 9 days to go (hopefully)

The last doctor appointment we went to was routine. Only this time she did an internal at my curious insistence. And I mean how often does a patient ask for an internal voluntarily?

The cervix is softening. The baby’s head is engaged. Everything is ready to go. So now I wait impatiently. Over-analyzing every twinge and cramp. Wondering if I’ve packed all the right stuff for my hospital stay. Should I carry my hospital bag with me at all times? How many diapers do I have to bring? What will it all be like? Will the baby look like me, or his daddy?

So much excitement and anticipation, I don’t know how much longer I can take it :)

38 Weeks and Puffy

Right now even my fingers are puffy!!!

Happy Thanksgiving Canada!

37 Weeks…Is it time yet?

Originally I had written a whole page about being in a bad mood. Blah! Rainy weather and being very pregnant got me there. But I am determined not to dwell on it – so the bummer post is scraped.

Today we go to the doctor – again! I understand the importance of checking my progress and the baby’s well being but I am truly getting sick of going. And my appointment isn’t until noon so I have to wait half the day to get it over with. Okay I’m complaining again! I will stop.

I have read that sometimes the doctor will check for effacement and dilation at these “near the end of pregnancy visits”. Not every doctor does though. I’m on the fence about having an internal at this point. I only want to know if there is some progress, if not then just let nature tell me when the time comes. But things don’t work that way do they? LOL

I have been getting more Braxton Hicks contractions, but nothing painful a.k.a real contractions : ) Once they pass, the little guy likes to kick me in the ribs a couple of times then he settles down.

I’ve been jumping between states of calm yet impatient urges of “let’s get the show on the road” to “Oh My God! I have to get this and that done before the baby comes!” I’m sure that’s normal. Please tell me I’m normal : )

After the appointment:

We arrived half an hour early. Yes, I actually got Hubby out the door early for once. Yipee! Someone was late for their appointment so we were seen right away. I love when the day just falls into place like that. Perhaps if we had shown up later, when our appointment was scheduled, the late person would have shown up too and made us have wait?

So everything looks good. The doctor seems to whip through our appointments, which is fine by me. Everything has been “normal” for the last 37 weeks by now there is no real concern for anything to go wrong. She did feel for the baby again and she said, “He’s way down there.” Good boy!

I asked about an internal and she said she would start that next visit. It would be so nice if things started rolling soon. I’m just so excited to be a mommy.

37 weeks pregnant

37 weeks pregnant
Originally uploaded by lovey_dovey9

So happy to say that I have gotten this far without gaining any pregnancy stretch marks. (None that I can see anyway - and I can't see much past the top of my belly) :-)

36 Week Doctor Visit

I am already getting tired of visiting my doctor so often. Yesterdays visit was good - except for the new parents in the waiting room who constantly "SSSSHHHHHHHed" their already content newborn constantly. The whole time I sat there waiting. "SSSHHHHHH"! I wanted to SSSHHHH them!!

Anyway, irritability aside, everything looks good. Baby's heart rate is good. My blood pressure - check. And the doctor checked to make sure the little guy's head was down and in position. Check!! I'm very happy about that. And quite amazed. I'd been trying to figure out what position he is in for the last couple of days and couldn't for the life of me figure out what I was feeling. It took her all of two seconds. Guess that's why she's the pro! Now let's hope he stays in position for the big day...when ever that is.

I've still made no predictions myself, but Hubby thinks I'll deliver on the 26th and baby will weigh 8lbs 12oz. Baba thinks the 26th or 27th. I'm hoping they are right. The sooner the better for this impatient mama!

Halloween would be a cool birthday. I do have two conflicts with that date though. 1. It's almost a week after my estimated due date - I do hate waiting. And 2. Baby's 2 year old cousin would have to share her birthday. I don't know how the kids would like that. Maybe they would be fine with it. Maybe they wouldn't want to share the attention?! Who knows!

I'm not sure if its just the dreary weather we've been having or the pregnancy hormones but I've been very miserable for the last couple of days. Snapping at dear hubby. Crying for no reason. Getting irritated by new parents shushing their newborns! I do hope it passes. This should be a time for joy!

36 Weeks…only 4 weeks left…am I ready for this?

The most common piece of advice I have been receiving lately is to get as much sleep as possible because once junior arrives sleep will be a luxury. I agree. I anticipate the feedings every two hours or so. The diaper changes all hours of the night. What ever else I’m not expecting, I’m half expecting :)

My problem seems to be that I am too excited/anxious about this whole baby/motherhood thing that I wake up for one of my many bathroom breaks in the middle of the night and start thinking about baby or child birth or even not working for a month (But yet I know motherhood – especially with a newborn will be work). So, I am lying awake in bed for about 2 hours with all these thoughts and wonders racing through my mind. No, I can’t seem to shut them off. Some of them I fuel out of excitement.

And forget sleeping in. Once my 7/7:30am bathroom break comes around I am out of bed and ready to start my day. Sorting the baby’s room. Washing his clothes. Packing and repacking his diaper bag for the hospital. Do I have everything? I hope so. My lists that are scattered around the house should help. LOL

I do manage to tire myself out sometimes by the afternoon. And have actually been napping – guilt free on the couch with at least one cat snuggling with me. I think they know something is up. Chichi has been especially sucky of late. Following me around. Calling me to bed if I’m not there by 9pm. The other two soon follow us to bed leaving little room for hubby.

Here is my most recent belly picture.



Hubby and I think I have dropped a bit. My boobs used to rest on top of my belly, but now it has lowered. We think/hope! The little guy is still moving around, but not as much as he was about a month ago. I have gotten a couple of predictions on my delivery date. I don’t have a prediction myself, just a couple of “these would be nice dates”. If he comes early (which I doubt) October 9th would be cool – John Lennon’s birthday. And of course the 23rd would be neat – hubby’s birthday.

So, do you think my baby has “dropped”? Any predictions?

Crazy Pregnancy Dream

I dreamed the other night that I had the baby. He was adorable and tiny and I kept changing lots of wet diapers. Then, even though I still had to support his head, he could talk. Quite clearly too. I can't remember what was said, and I'm sure it's not important.
While I dealt with all the diapers and a super intelligent talking newborn without a wonder, sharp pencils began appearing in his little hands and he was trying to stab me. I would remove the pencil, wondering where it came from, and another would appear. And with all this weirdness going on I wasn't weirded out or anxious at all. I just continued my motherly duties of diaper changes, and moving sharp objects out of reach.

The alarm clock awoke me shortly after the pencils began appearing - thankfully!!

35 Weeks

We went to the Doctor today. Everything looks good. The baby is still moving around a lot so I suppose his position at the moment isn't significant, though his head seems to be down. I'm pretty sure his feet spend a lot of time in my rib cage.

I am pretty sure that the receptionist mistook my weight either this visit or last. I'm positive I haven't gained 10lbs in two weeks!!! I'm sure I would have felt that type of gain and I'm sure I would have seen it!!! Whatever! I'm letting it slide.

Hubby asked about the flu shot on my behalf. This doctor seems to think its a good idea whether I'm pregnant or not. My regular GP told me a few years ago that he wouldn't recommend a flu shot for a young healthy adult, as he thinks it will make your immune system weak. Only young children and elderly people should get them. So, now I'm not sure what I want to do. In my mind I do sway in the anti-flu shot camp. Maybe I'm paranoid. Maybe I've watched X-Files too much.

The vaccines will not be available until the end of October. I might have already given birth by that time. But if I am still pregnant and with the Swine Flu still around it might be a good idea.

Truly, I'm not sure what to do. Maybe I should have another talk about it with my GP. We seem to think the same way. I may be more comfortable with his opinion.

What do you think of flu vaccines? Do you get vaccinated every year?

A Laugh at My Own Expence

I had forgotten how desperately I wanted a baby bump so early in pregnancy.

I had gotten heavier, but that's far from the bump I know and love now :) It's hardly a bump at all.

I admit the majority of my weight gain happened in the first 4 months, which is odd but not totally unheard of. I blame the Lick's chocolate milkshakes (one of the tasty things that would temporarily remove that metallic taste from my mouth).

I do remember that at 16 weeks I did start feeling the baby move around, which is early for a first pregnancy.

What I've been hearing is just so true - every pregnancy IS different. Which is a relief, but at the same time frustrating! How am I supposed to plan every detail out? LOL

34 Weeks…Baby Shower and Lack of Sleep

I am truly at the point where sleep is always welcome but I never stay there long. Every movement wakes me. Either turning over will trigger a body ache, usually my hip or the baby lands on my bladder and I must rush to the bathroom. And then of course, either my mind takes over making me think of things to do, or how exciting it will be once the baby is here OR hubby starts snoring really loud. I nudge him hoping he will turn over then I feel bad when he wakes up (but not too bad though).

This morning it was Hubby’s snoring as well as my thoughts. Only today is somewhat exciting and nerve inducing. My mom and Baba are throwing me a baby shower. The nerve inducing part is me just being me – social situations make me nervous, especially this one because I am the center of it. I am excited to see my guests. I get to see lots of family that I don’t see often.

And well of course to be honest I am looking forward to the gifts for baby. The cute little outfits. Who can resist baby shopping?

The Mall, Parking Spots and Grumpy Old Men

Hubby and I went to the mall today to buy The Beatles Rock Band game. It does rock!

Hubby thought that we could take advantage of one of the designated "Parent" parking spots. You know the ones designated for "parents with children"? Since I'm "with child" and waddling like a big goose with swollen ankles and sore feet, Hubby thought it only fair that we take this spot.

As I was heaving myself out of the passenger seat an older gentleman (I'm being nice -see!) is getting into his car, in the designated handicap spot beside me. I wonder why he is hesitating with his door, kind of swinging it opened and closed. Then he says in a slightly snarky voice "Where are your children?"

My hormones are in high gear lately. I could cry or yell without hesitation. He's lucky we just had a happy visit with the doctor (at which the little guy kicked while the doctor was checking his heart rate - so cute). I point to my belly and say "Right here!".

Hubby thought that was friendly enough and smiled at the guy. The older dude just grumble something incoherent at me and finally got in his car and went away. Boy did that piss me off.

I realize some people think I'm carrying small (the baby and me are growing well according to the doctor), but really the guy was just looking to give someone a hard time. Did I even turn around to check for his handicap permit? No (but Hubby did). Is this guy's life so boring or meaningless that he actually hesitates just driving to where ever the hell grumpy old men go after visiting the mall to give me a hard time? Is that why he visits the mall? To monitor the designated parking for fraudulent parents? I really do wish that some people would mind their own business.

It’s Like Christmas!

I’m normally the type of person who can sleep through anything. So now being THIS pregnant and waking up every time I turn over or have to pee (which is often) is very frustrating for me.

As I’ve been told, and I try to remind myself, it will prepare me for waking up all hours of the night to feed the baby. Maybe I’m just argumentative, but at least with the baby here I will have a greater purpose for waking up. Right now, I turn or go to the bathroom, then I cannot fall back to sleep because I am excited/anxious about the baby’s arrival.

I was like this at Christmas time when I was younger (not much younger, mind you!). Christmas morning I would be up at 3 or 4am – wide awake. Lucky for me “Santa” would leave me a really cool pile of gifts to unwrap in my stocking, which was left just outside my bedroom door. Once I had that taken care of I could go back to sleep for another couple of hours.

I wouldn’t try to wake my brother up until about 7am. He wouldn’t get up. I’m still not sure if he really wasn’t that excited or he was just trying to drive his little sister crazy!

Anyway, pregnancy is like Christmas for me. I can’t wait to see my present. The big difference is that there really is no definite date. Unlike Christmas, Baby may not arrive on the designated date. Actually, he most likely won’t arrive on his designated due date. Was my big brother just preparing me for this test of patience?

33 Weeks picture

Amazing what a little make-up can do.


We've also been practicing dressing the baby. Here is our top model.

33 Weeks Pregnant – Keeping Busy

We’ve been busy this past weekend. Hubby painted the baby’s room. I realized I’m not so good at supervising, because I decided I had to do some paint touch ups. I know I’m bad. I’ve gotten the lectures already. :-)

We started to replace the flooring. With this I’m a little better at the supervising part. I do allow myself to measure. The rest is muscle-work, which I left up to Hubby.

We are getting pretty good at installing laminate. This is the fourth time we have worked with the material and have figured out a few tricks. The only thing really slowing us down is that we have to borrow most of the tools needed. We did finally splurge on our very own handsaw. That moved things along.

So now the baby’s room and hallway are pretty much complete. We just have a few patches to fill and ¼ round trim to replace. The fastest method for that is to use a nail gun – which we will have to borrow. That fact alone may slow down the completion quite a bit, but at least the bulk of the job is complete. Yippee for Hubby and all his hard work (and sore hands, knees and pinched skin).

Next weekend we plan to tackle our bedroom floor, which involves moving a lot of furniture. I also have my baby shower to attend. And Hubby has to work the same day. So hopefully we can get it all done on Saturday and then I can start concentrating on the next thing I want done. I’m not sure what that is yet, but I feel I should make it a solo project or else Hubby will want nothing more to do with me. :-p


I’m going to wear out Hubby soon. I am starting to bring him to work with me to show him the ropes so he can take over when I am too big and tired to work and while I am in recovering after having the baby.

I’ve been tiring so easy lately. Taking an afternoon nap just about every day. I don’t let myself feel guilty about it either. In several weeks, sleep will be a luxury and I know I will wish I took more advantage of napping.

(This weeks belly picture coming soon. Like when I take a picture of myself and don't look so tired - LOL)

Baby Bum

I received this free diaper sample in the mail the other day. (I did tell you I like free stuff).
While it was still in the mailer package I was sure it was baby wipes or a booklet. It was surely too small to be a diaper. Guess I was wrong. I can’t believe his bum is really going to be that small.



Funny thing is, I don't remember signing up for this freebie. I must have gone crazy on one of my googling free stuff sprees.

32 weeks...

Prenatal classes finished yesterday. We should be ready now. At least as ready as possible. Still a few things to do around the house that I'm too pregnant to do. Hopefully they will get done without too much worrying on my part.

I keep trying to tell myself that some of these things are not that important. The baby will be fine without kittens painted on the walls. As long as he has clothes and diapers and some where to sleep and of course mommy and daddy, he will do just fine.

Just trying to relax as much as my personality will allow me for the next 8 weeks or so.

Hubby will be starting to work with mom and I this week. Hopefully this will help me to not be exhausted after cleaning two houses. And once he is set up there and I can no longer get down to clean a toilet I guess I am off to wait for the baby's arrival. I'm hoping to work as long as possible. I'm not a good waiter. I want things done yesterday. :)

Which leads me to wonder...will the baby be on time? How many "first born" babies are born right on their due date? How many are late? Early? I don't think I could handle a late baby. Heck I'm usually half an hour early to my dental appointments!

My Father always Said “Nobody said life was going to be Fair!”

My response “ Well that’s not fair!”

This is the view from my kitchen window. I put up the suncatchers to distract me from what is really out there, but all the same my imagination will only take me so far.

This house has been in several stages of collapsing since I first met my hubby. Sadly, back in 2006 when I first saw it people were actually living in it. With a newborn baby. And rodents. And who knows what else. Paying rent for the privilege. The owner either doesn’t know that houses need maintenance or he doesn’t care.

Once it was vacated the yard maintenance became non-existent. I’m sure more than one person called the city about the grass growing so long they were losing their children in it. City workers came and cleaned it all up. I’m sure the owner was sent quite the hefty bill.

His solution:

Last year, his nephew had visited the neighbourhood informing us that they had planned to tear it down and rebuild two rental units further back in the yard. A group of what I assume were his friends and family showed up one day and began by removing the siding by hand. Without gloves or other safety equipment. Without a permit.

The city workers came once again to inform them that they needed a permit to dismantle the house.

Once again the house was abandoned.

The city was called again about the state of the yard. This time he hired his own people to cut it. They did a half-ass job and left. Before anyone could complain the city workers went on strike. Not before the For Sale sign went up. At first I was hopeful, but really, who is going to want it now in this state. The owner is likely asking way too much for what is only property with hefty baggage. How much would it cost just to tear down the house?

So, we are left looking at this misery every time we leave the house. Whenever service people or friends visit we hear comments about it. One service guy came over the other day and hit the nail on the head – “You’d have to pay ME to take that house!”

According to my limited research there isn’t much we can do about it except complain about the grass again. It must be terrible for our neighbourhood’s Feng shui. It’s depressing. And making matters even worse, it seems that people have now mistaken it for the new city dump. More and more junk is tossed into the back yard.

It’s not fair!

And yet another appointment

We saw the OB/GYN today for my regular monthly visit (which has turned into my regular every two week visit as of my next appointment).

I have not gained any weight. In fact I think I lost a pound. How is that possible? My belly is getting bigger, but I'm not gaining. Does this mean I can have that extra serving of chocolate ice cream? Or some large fries (no sharing with hubby this time)?

I was reassured by my doctor that considering my starting weight and early pregnancy weight gain we are doing fine. She measured my belly and baby is growing. She might send me for a scan next time just to be sure.

And though I would love another peek at my little man, I know I am going to be so sick and tired of appointments. Or rather waiting rooms!