Playing Catch up

I barely find time to blog anymore and I find that slightly disheartening...but on my priority list, it just falls short after the millions of other things that gals with multiple children have to do.

We are still dealing with discipline issues with M. She is doing significantly better, or at least we are more relaxed with it all cause we know how to handle it. She had an out burst yesterday after a wonderful day...we understood that because she chose to play instead of nap during quiet time that she was tired by 7pm. (approximate time of outburst). She managed it o.k. In fact, she was on the naughty spot during said event and said that she was just crying and expressing herself...she wasn't being ugly or having a fit. I told her that was acceptable. I mean a girls gotta let that out sometimes.

She started to "express herself" today at a friends house when we were to pick up so that we could go home. Anyone within earshot might have been deafened by her one long ear piercing scream. So I said, "we agreed that if you chose to disobey that we were going home, so it is now time to leave." She answered as you might expect with a NO. Which I wasn't listening to, because I proceeded to gather up our bag and baby and hit the door. You know that wasn't acceptable and she came running and started crying in sincerity. I stopped at the porch door and looked at her and gently repeated my previous statement. I hugged her and she said that she loved me...I love her too. And off we went thanking our host and apologizing for our outburst. Not too bad comparitively. She's learning to take control of her reactions. She was disappointed cause she didn't get a chance to wear the buzz lightyear costume, but I told her not to worry...we'd let her go first next time.

Now she is napping. She played quietly for awhile...I napped. Then when it was the usual time to allow her to come out of her room, I found she had climbed in her bed for a nap. How nice! A quiet house, and I've already napped! W sleeps really well during afternoon nap if he sticks to his usual schedule.

On the W front, he had a cranky spell for a few days. I think he was dealing with a little allergies or a touch of a cold. Today he has been delightful. Even at Jill's house, he slept for morning nap thanks to a bit of my favorite babywearing. Pulled out the old standby (my 6 yds of cotton guaze) and wrapped us up. He was having trouble with all the stimulation till I got the bright idea to pull a piece all the way up to cover his head. then he was out in about 1 minute. After I got M situated in her room for quiet time, he was still up and in a good mood so I didn't try to force him down for a nap. I just spent some one on one face time with him and I was much rewarded! He giggled and giggled! He likes to play little games it seems. Hearing his little giggle is better than any rush or high I could ever imagine!

On my front, I am doing well. I keep a little more to myself than I'm used to...maybe because I'm spent by the end of the day, or maybe because with a growing family I don't get alot of time to myself. I've been sewing a sleeping beauty costume for myself. Really I've just about finished. I had to recreate the thing though, cause I had the skirt already hanging in my closet, so I just needed to make the bodice. But I couldn't find a pattern for it, so I used a snow white pattern with sleeve patterns from another princess pattern. Then I had to attach partial skirt embellishment to it. And on top of that there is the white collar like thing that I have no idea, but am going to work on last. I have a wig too! How fun. I will most likely wear this for halloween, but M thinks I definitely need to be Ariel for halloween. I'm making these costumes in the hopes of one day starting a princess party business...more on that to come.

That is the latest...except to say our lease is up Dec. 1st and we are exploring our options looking for extra space. Buying isn't an option for us right now so, we are just trying to decide whether to stay put or move to something bigger that will inevitably have a higher price tag. We shall see.

Creative Discipline

Well, I think maybe I've finally had a break through on my creativity when it comes to consequences for M's misbehaving. I felt like a success yesterday when I came up with an idea after she had acted out at school on the playground. She disobeyed her teacher and then proceeded to have a tantrum and had to be carried back to class. Nice.

"Uh oh! How sad." She was supposed to do a chore to earn her TV time back that she lost at the beginning of the week due to an outburst over bath (in which she deliberately clawed J and left marks on his arm). That privilege was lost and in addition to that, I though maybe lending her teacher one of her favorite things to have over the weekend might be a good idea. She agreed to this and chose her two favorite ponies. We bagged them up but when we tied the bag together, she decided she didnt' want to do that anymore. I then knew not only did the punishment fit the crime, but it hurt a little. This is what I was going for.

We sent a little note to Ms. T saying that she was sorry for having a fit and that she could play with her favorite ponies this weekend, but to please return them to her bag next week. She also wanted me to write "I love you" which I did and thought was really sweet. Ms. T responded with a note in kind...said M was doing super in school and thanks for loaning her the ponies.

This disciplining is not easy mainly cause it seems we are having to do it all day everyday. But I guess we are being extremely consistent right now so that we can move on from this stage and into one where in she knows and understands the boundaries and the discipline is less often necessary.

Knee Deep in Discipline

Well, the title of this post should say it all. When I was potty training M, I took her out of school to get the job done well and quickly. Well, M is still going to school, but that is about it right now. Getting out with her just wouldn't be a great idea as she is still learning to take discipline from mom and dad right now. Add on top of that a boy who has been a bit cranky for the last 3 days, and you'll understand why I have on yesterday's makeup still, haven't showered or brushed my teeth yet and am wearing my pj's...still. I did get dinner fixed and that was superb! Filet and fried okra from the garden and mashed potatoes...yum. Boy is suddenly awake...again and this doesn't look good for tonight since his sleeping pattern today has been only 20-30 min. at a time. yippee! Gotta run. Maybe I'll get a chance to post again sometime in the near future! who really knows.

Family Photos!

Make a Smilebox slideshow

W at 2 months!

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

SuperNanny

So, I haven't blogged much lately cause I've been exhausted! Naps are apparently a thing of the past around here and night times have been very difficult.

We've dealt with or desperately tried to deal with major tantrums almost daily. Mr. Sad Spoon seems to be mostly useless except to make both M and J and me angry. So, we are using restrictions...that gets old cause even though it sort of helps, it seems like we are too negative all the time.

J and I did something that made me feel like a real parent for the first time in a while (you know besides natural childbirth ha!). We got together on the same page and figured out just how we were going to deal with our parenting problem.

Thank goodness for family as well, cause after sounding things off my mom I was able to combine all of our decisions and some things that we gleaned from SuperNanny and we scheduled our first family meeting!

It was hilarious actually cause M was sooo excited about it! She and I sat down with a posterboard and a sharpie and decided what our family rules should be and what our consequences and rewards should be. She enjoyed having a say and being a part of the process. We showed the naughty spot and we introduced the coin jar. When she does certain chores or behaves well, she gets to put in a coin. If she disobeys or disrespects, she has to take a coin out. This seemed to hit home. She immediately did a task to get a coin. Then we worked to clean her room, one of a daily chore, and so she got another coin. Then (and this is big) she went #2 on the potty all by herself with no assistance. For that she got to put in a coin. She packed her bag for school tomorrow and thus will get a coin tomorrow morning AND her dad said that if she went to bed without problems, she could put in 2 coins.

Not a peep! Unbelievable cause sleeping has been particularly difficult! Now on Fridays when daddy gets home we get to see if we have enough coins for something special. She suggested icecream this week! Great idea! So we shall see.

We had to do the supernanny thing putting her back in bed over and over with little or no talking/eye contact involved. It was dramatic for sure and can't believe that w slept through it...but it didn't last too long. probably 10-15 times I had to put her back in bed. But it worked. Once she got quiet, she was quiet until I came to get her up. I don't think she slept, at least not for long...but she was quiet and remaind in her room. That was the point. I was thrilled.

Mom says welcome to child training as opposed to simply raising a child. Fun times, but the small victories are just as exciting to J and I as I think they are to M! Victory #1!

Naptime Nonsense!

Seriously. Anyone who knows me well, knows that I LOVE to nap. Not all the time or anything, but almost everyday for at least 40min. This two kid thing isn't very conducive to that though! And it makes me angry! Angry not cause I'm cranky, but you know that feeling of boiling angst when you are desperately trying to do something and it just isn't working out your way! That is me...now and the last several days. Ugh. At least W is sleeping a good 8-10 hours at night. Thank the Lord for that. Sorry for the short post...he is hungry

300th Post

This is my 300th post! I feel like I need to post balloons or something. Still, there are actual things to say here, so I won't linger on about my blogging success.

Balloons would be appropriate cause tomorrow is my birthday! I know. In a way I'm excited, but in other ways, you know how it is when you get older...its just another day. I'll be 29! My last years in the 20's ahhhh! I took my family to Outback Friday night on the lovely gift card that my brother and SIL gave me. Delicious, and sorry skinny-mamas, the only holding back I did was on portion control. I looked at that onion burger thing and cut it in half. When I finished the first half I knew I could eat the rest, but I asked for a to-go box instead and had it for lunch today. AND we didn't order dessert! Course what am I saying...a little Sangria was a nice addition to my sup. Gotta love special occasions as far as mealtime is concerned!

Today we were supposed to venture to the Apple Festival in Hendersonville, NC, but M decided to get out of bed 3 times last night and at some point in between had a meltdown from the next room without actually getting out of bed. This is soooo not allowed in our nighttime routine. So, after the 2nd time we said no apple festival if she were to get up again. That is when the screaming ensued and thus we cancelled our adventure. AND, still at 5:08 am she appeared at my door again! Ugh! That was terrible cause sure enough W slept 9 hours. Could have been a lovely nights sleep! Hopefully tonight will be better. I should be in bed though just in case.

So, when I woke up, knowing we weren't going to the festival, I decided that I was getting out by myself, or everyone was coming with me to the mall and I was getting my birthday presents. I knew they hadn't been purchased yet as Friday was payday! So we all went to the mall. First I had family drop me off at Hobby Lobby to get the very fancy coupon purse thing that was on my list (not on sale, but hey its my bday). Then off to the mall for lunch and shopping. We lunched (and yes I was extra frugal there). Sub, water from home, no chips. The Tea Junction is right next to the food court and the main thing I wanted was a tiny tea pot. I have a thing for Tea. Some brewing now actually. I let M pick out the exact one. She chose well, cause she can't break it and it is pretty bright green...and came with free tea. To top that off, we put off M's cries for a special cookie (great american cookie co.) because they had samples of a strawberry smoothie there. It was small, free, and she liked it! hooray!

On to the next stop just before the play area...Jason ventures off to get his eyes examined and contact lenses. We head toward the play area but stop in at Things Remembered. I HAVE TO STOP HERE TO INSERT A MERCY-ISM...We have to pass a VERY large Victoria's Secret to get where we are going and she's commenting about the window and store displays. There are seductive models and large posters in lingerie everywhere and she says, "Those ladies look sweet." To which I reply, "Really?" "Sweat wasn't the word that I thought of." And we kept going. The other thing on my list that I took care of at the mall was getting my necklace from Aunt Alyson engraved. There is a boy and a girl and tomorrow they will have my kids names and bdays. Mom jewelry...who would've thought. But I couldn't be more proud to where my babies around my neck! Thanks Al.

Play ground! We saw our sweet friends Matt and Marie and their kids. That was great. Miss them a bunch. Yes, Shelby and Kev...they asked about you. I think they might miss you guys! That was a nice unexpected treat! Home we go for a late nap and a feed. I think we all managed to get a little sleep...hallelujah! Sup...attempt to play in our overrun, unruly backyard, ant bites, back inside, baths, feeding, remake all the beds with clean linens, reading time (lots of books), J ducks out to go watch ball game on the big screen, M to bed after a brief rocking session with both kids, feeding and bed for w, check the chore list (hey what do you know I've done nothing on the actual list today!) do dishes, gather the trash, clear off and wipe down counters and stove, make tea, kill ants (another long story), and now I'm doing this when I should be sweeping the kitchen and making our bed.

Guess I better run if I'm going to get any sleep!

Mercy for Mercy

So M had a good and bad day yesterday...but lets keep in mind her world is full of changes right now!

It was her first day of dance class; ballet, tap, and tumbling. She was brave and let me put her hair up. Up to this point pony tails or pig tails always involved a major meltdown. But we prepped her days in advance about this aspect of being in dance. Success...no meltdown over the pony tail. Of course, I just couldn't get her hair to all stay in there. Oh well. She enjoyed class. W slept in the pouch sling.



After dance class, we joined itsamomthing and fam for lunch at chik fil a. Managed to only spend $3.66 since I had my calendar coupon for a free sandwich and then got a water. This proved really great cause I ordered her the bigger pack of nuggets and she didn't eat them all, so that was part of her dinner as well!

Play time didn't go well right from the start. we had prepped her and T$ about how they would need to try and play by themselves. Apparently they both have a problem with crying over the playground equipment. M started right away. She fussed until another lady helped her up. Us moms tried to nurse the boys. Then came the giant erruption! M has a fit cause she struggled (but made it mind you) to climb the big steps up into the tubes on the playground. She meltsdown and refuses to try the last step up. She's screaming wanting me to help her up. Well I've already said that I'm not going up in there (not to mention I have w and am trying to nurse). Besides...she just did the first one all by herself and there is only one more (which I know she can do as well if she just tries). The other lady helps her up again. Now she is at the top in those dumb tubes screaming cause she wants down I guess...but refuses to even try to come down by herself. Keep in mind all she has to do is go down the slide, which she just did not too many moments ago.

Nice lady climbs up there to try to coax her down, but she won't budge. It has to be me (imagine time ticking in slow motion at this point cause that's what all this felt like). Nice lady holds w so I can climb up. I get to the top of the step things and she sees me and gets mad (I don't know why) and slides down the slide by herself. I proceed to climb back down the step things and tell her we are leaving. Another meltdown...throwing herself on the floor...

I could go on at this point with more and more play by play but you get the pic. I'm trying to figure out how I'm going to get w, his bag, m's raincoat, umbrella, ballet bag, our drinks and m who will most certainly get dragged out kicking and screaming... I'm sure I looked at a loss. Itsamomthing helped me stuff w in the sling, and grabbed some of our stuff. By now M is still screaming, but takes my hand when I put it out there so we walk out in a blaze of glory!


Her stocking feet in the rain cause I'm not about to try and put her boots on on top of everything else. She's mad about her feet getting wet (to which I remind her was due to her poor choices). She has the gall to ask for ice cream and has another all out scream fest in the car because I say absolutely not after that inappropriate display! When she finally settles down I tell her she is to take deep breaths and be silent the rest of the way home. She complies (finally!).

Peepee, visit from Mr. Sad Spoon, Naptime...and then emerges the sweet child I was certain I had birthed more than 3 yrs ago.


Tornados in the area sent us playing fort with book, blankets, and pillows (don't forget the weather radio) in the hallway. She actually thought this was quite fun!


AND today was her first day of K-3. Daddy took her, but I managed to snap a quick pic on her way out the door! What a big girl!

Simply Green

Ok, I named this post according to two things that I'm working toward this week/season. Simplifying my house and going more green in my home environment.

I was re-inspired by a series that one of my fave blogs did recently. Simplify. I was reminded that simplifying is not just about cleaning out and having less stuff, it is about de-complicated your life. That may just be a matter of organizing. Or taking something that may even be "good" out of your schedule so that you can breathe easier, feel less stressed, have more time...whatever.

Simplification is something that J and I get on a kick about at least twice a year. Well, I've been re-inspired and thus I'm working toward a garage sale. I'm evaluating the couponing and sale hunting that I do as to whether it is worth the effort at this stage in life (lets keep in mind ALDI can compete even with sales and coupons most of the time). We are working out our family schedule right now in our home (cleaning and chores and such). Then comes a meal plan that includes 2 weeks of our fave meals, and then repeats the cycle with little variation (some variation but not much) so as to simplify the meal prep, grocery shopping, etc. Then comes budget...ugh. I do somewhat dread that, but it needs to be done.

Now about going green. This ties into my simplification process anyway cause I've been reading up on going green in cleaning and how to do that without breaking the bank. Let's face it there are plenty of products out there that claim to be natural, green, etc., but you usually get charged more for those items. And for me price generally trumps environmental kindness. I really like all the Shaklee stuff, but I don't have the initial budget for it. I think in the end you save money or at least its comparable because it is all concentrated and last a really long time. But I've been reading up on the use of baking soda, rubbing alcohal, hydrogen peroxide, and vinegar (and for my tastes some tea tree oil) for cleaning just about anything and everything in your home. And in timely fashion, Walgreens is having this amazing sale (with their store coupons) on hydrogen peroxide and baking soda right now. You can get hydrogen peroxide (limit 3) for 39 cents! And baking soda (limit 4) for 50 cents! So I'm stocking up on these and throwing out all the other cleaners. Under my sink is going to look amazing when I'm through!

So, go green! It's easy, effective, and affordable, and it benefits the environment, but more importantly to me, you family. You'd be amazed at the poor quality of the air inside a home due to all the chemicals we use on a regular basis, and then to think those of us that stay at home with our kids are exposed all the more (and our children too). Can't wait to make this move.

Religious Gathering

We have been trying to make heads or tails of "church" in our life lately. I put parenthesis here cause we understand the truest meaning of church as God intended it, but I am referring to the gatherings that we as Americans do typically on Sunday mornings that involve some type of singing and preaching.

We enjoy our Sundays...relaxing, spending time as a family, catching up on things from our busy weeks. We do miss things like corporate worship times. I miss the singing. Mom says she figures I miss leading worship...I do feel whole when I'm doing that. So, we decide to try once more to find a place...not where we necessarily fit in, but one that we can deal with in its current form. You see we don't do religious gatherings per se. We are over it as it has been presented to us up to this point. We are looking for something more meaningful...not just something we do cause we've always done it.

In fact, I feel slightly put off by a perfect show if you will. Because it is just that...typically...a show. I long for something real. Something a bit laid back, but certainly not sloppy. Cause really, we need to offer our best to God in worship. But I don't consider this one time of gathering "worship." At least it isn't all that encompasses that concept. It is one part at least it is an attempt on our part.

I long for communion with other believers...in an authentic, and real relationship. I don't want church friends...I want friends. I don't want people who are only going to attempt to hold me accountable with whatever we are "studying in bible study right now". I want people who are going to be slightly annoying and nosy, and hold me accountable in a gentle and loving way, for things I hadn't even realized or thought of yet. I need intimacy and authenticity. don't we all really. This isn't new news...just our going to the church building experience today left me desperately wanting more! Seriously.

I love hymns, but they can be done in a way that reaches today's generation. I love most music and songs, but they can be done with connection to the meaning, with feeling and heart. I love God's word, and I dig liturgy if it means something to those presenting and participating. I just have a hard time finding God in all that we do in "church".

THAT IS WHAT I'M LOOKING FOR IN CHURCH: GOD!

just realized that...I've kind of been struggling back and forth about why I'm dissatisfied, and what it is I seek to gain. That's it. I seek to gain God. So, if I find it in the church setting that would be GREAT! But if I find it elsewhere so be it! Then that shall be my church.

what's up

What's up here? Well, the usual...our little routine is fairly, well mundane maybe. Still it keeps us sane to have a routine. Feeding every 3 hours except at night and then we just let little man surprise us. Last night it was 7 hours. Love that except that I was awake about an hour before that trying to figure out this new schedule. He is become a bit more of a person and thus seems to fuss a bit more, making himself known. M is very 3! testing every boundary. Everyday is emotionally different with her. Some are great and she is (for the most part) happy and obedient. Then there are the "no", "i don't want to..." days. we had half of one of those today. She had a royal temper tantrum, but as I saw that it was revving up, I told her to go to her room until she was finished. AND she did!

It was a huge fit...very angry screaming and what not. what was it about you ask? well, I suggested that we go to her new ballet studio to sign up and check things out. She decided that she didn't want to go after all...but we did go and she liked it. When she was finished with her fit she came out happy and ready to play. I asked her if she felt better now that she worked out her frustration and anger...and she said yes! Oh the days.

Tomorrow is baby boys 6 wk check at the birthing center, can't wait to see how much he weighs. Wednesday is our home visit from M's K3 teacher this year! Thursday is . . . the circumcision. I'm scared of this altogether, but I'm making J go with me. Should be an interesting couple of days after that. Friday if baby boy is up to it, itsamomthing and company are coming over for playdate. That'll be as much fun for the girls as it'll be for us moms I hope.

I wish you could see my hubs right this very moment! we have dualing computers going on right now since he just got his new iMac. He's playing with their weird photo features and I swear! I've never seen a grown man...well you'd just have to see this. taking all these pics of himself like he's in one of those funny mirror rooms. AND dying laughing at himself no less! Ah, he can be so amusing!

gotta wake the boy to do the last scheduled feed before my bedtime. So much to do, so little time...

My how time flies...

Make a Smilebox postcard

A Full Day

Well, I pulled a full day all by myself. It's not over yet mind you, but I'm so tired I should be sleeping. May get a quick shower here in a bit though before the night feeding.

This morning I got up and fed W. Then got M up and going. Put W in the swing long enough to hop in the shower. Got some semblance of an outfit on and put one on M. Scarfed down a slice of banana nut bread and a bottle of water and vitamins. I already had M's lunch and bags packed...I made her some bacon and her milk (about all I can get her to eat for b'fast these days), and got us all out the door by 8:30 to get M to summer camp by 9.

We made it there on fumes. I lug both children in, talk to M's teacher a minute, lug w back out (p.s. I hate carrying that car seat carrier!), and trek back to the house to finish getting ready for the dentist. I'm in desperate need of gas so I stop at the nearest spinx only to get out and discover that my wallet and entire purse are at home, so I pray us home to get the silly thing.

We make it home, I have just enough time to put on makeup and straighten my hair amidst my screaming child in the swing. I feed him, throw an extra bottle together and his bag and race out the door (with my purse!). We run to the spinx, put in half a tank and make it through the construction to Suzette's. I have very basic instructions for her, and then head to the dentist.

I waited longer than I thought I would, but the cleaning was quick...thorough, but quick. So now I have been to the dentist...since I hadn't been in like 8 years! I grabbed a bite of lunch, then back to get W and pick up M from summer camp. W had been asleep since at least 12pm. and stayed asleep till I could feed him after I put m down for a nap. No big fights about it today which was good. I woke him up enough to feed and he fell asleep again! He didn't want to sleep in his bassinet though which frustrates me, so I let him sleep on me. I didn't get much rest, but at least it was quiet in my house for awhile.

Then M is up again and wanting me to put baby brother down and come play in her room! she has trouble with this newborn requiring constant attention. we did our best to play play doh after feeding. Then we waited for our food that was being brought (thank you Jana) and I made a quick batch of fried okra from our garden. And we had supper. then fed the boy...again...and then tried to keep him up so that he'll sleep some tonight. But he was not having it...he really wanted to be asleep. And that's where he is now. I put the food up, need to do the dishes and laundry, but am too tired. I think I'm gonna jump in the shower before I have to feed W again. May help hubs make an apple pie with the apples from our tree!

Worked on the slings in my 20 minutes of spare time yesterday...would do that today but I'm pooped! Hopefully when M is in summer camp tomorrow and W is taking one of his many naps, I'll be able to finish them up! I'll let you know, itsamomthing. They are coming right along actually. Can't wait, but really I can.

Check Below

I finished the birth story as best I could with all the distractions! I think I got a little discombobulated at the end there. Still I think I may have forgotten to mention that my intention was to have a waterbirth to help with the pain relief...but clearly that didn't happen. They were afraid that it would slow my progression. Oh well...maybe next time. But check below for the story...and then go to dad's sight to see his little take on the whole ordeal. He was in the next room praying.

Apples, apples, and more apples!

Remember these from last year?! I thought our little apple tree was on its last leg last year! But no! Check this out!



This is just the beginning of our collection! And turns out we have this apple tree, and two others that produce bigger, more like granny smith apples. Can't wait to do this again with my whole little family of 4. Even W was in it...in the "moby-like" wrap in nothing but his diaper.

Brother and Sister

Mom went home

Mom went home today and I didn't cry...I thought about it there for a minute when she was savoring her grandchildren one last time. I'm so thrilled to have recovered so quickly and with very little "baby blues". Certainly my hormones have been up and down, but no sobbing in the shower everyday for 2 weeks. I have to say that the Women's Nutritional Tea combined with B-Complex that the midwife suggested for mood stabilizing seems to make a difference. Seriously, whether it is really anything or not, I swear I feel better shortly after drinking a cup. 2-3 cups a day for awhile.

Mom has been such a help, making sure things stay pretty clean around here. Driving me places while I was on restriction. Giving M extra attention so that I could focus on the baby. So many things I couldn't really begin to list them all. Still, we will all miss her around here. M will miss waking her up and playing with her. J will miss being spoiled while she is around, and I will miss the sleep and companionship that she gives me. I'm am more than thrilled that she and dad will be together again and that she will have an opportunity to rest! We all need that.

Baby boy is asleep for now, M is at least in bed. They have both had baths, and I guess it is now my turn! I'm gonna go grab that while I can and then feed him and off to bed for us both. Pray for a good night!

M's Big Birthday Bash!

What a day! Thank goodness for Magical Makings and our Ariel hostess! Enjoy these pics! This was quite a birthday bash!

Make a Smilebox slideshow

SIL's picture session!

Love these! can't wait to get them in the mail! Check out her slide show of Wyatt at one week! http://smilebox.com/playEmail/4d7a6b354f544d304e3377334f544d354e7a55310d0a&sb=1

The Birth Story

Ok. Ya'll know he was "overdue" at least according to the estimated due date. I was antsy about it at first, then I didn't mind. I just did things to try to speed the process along. Well, the weekend of his birth, my poor mom went back home to NC to spend some time with Dad and recoup, since W was taking his sweet time. She had already been here for 2 weeks. The joke always was that as soon as she left, he would come...and that is basically true.

Saturday night I decided to try the breast pump induction thing. I was told to pump for 20 min. every hour for 3 hours. Well, I didn't. I just pumped for 20 min. and then went to bed. Not too fun I tell you though. I mean to pump when there isn't anything in there to pump. ugh. But, I endured. And in the middle of pumping I knew something was happening. It's supposed to cause uterine contractions, and it did. I was pretty sure that this would do the trick. I went to bed thinking, if I wake in the middle of the night, this is the real thing...but I didn't.

I did wake early the next morning, Sunday the 29th of June. I felt achey and thought I might be having contractions. I went about my morning routine. And finally at about 9 I decided to start writing down the intervals. It turned out to be about every 12 minutes for a while. I didn't wake J though. There had been too many false alarms...

When he woke, I told him today may actually be the day. I continued to chart the intervals and they seemed to get closer together. I ate like pig that morning too (which turned out to be a bad thing when it came down to getting that baby out!) I called my doula and told her about the situation. I told her I'd call if they got closer together and such...and I did. I realized that this was not getting any easier and certainly not going to slack off. These contractions were painful and here to stay.

Julie came around 1pm? I think. Those types of details are getting fuzzier by the day. about 11:30 am we called Uncle K and SIL to come pick up M so that she wouldn't be an additional distraction to actually get this baby out. They came and I left the remainder of her arrangements to mom. I called mom and she said that she and dad were coming. It was funny actually cause she was very cautious to come seeing as I had already had two very suspicious days that we thought maybe...Well I had called her several times that morn already, and when I decided that she definitely should come, I had to spell it out very plainly..."What I'm trying to say is that I'm having this kid today. You need to come." I think I sounded kind of desperate and hormonal...and of course she knew that meant it really was time.

They headed this way, Julie, the doula headed this way, and I labored around the house. By the time Julie got here I was contracting every 6 minutes which seemed too close together to me. It didn't take long till they were ever 4 minutes. She said that she thought maybe she would be going back home when she got my phone call cause it seemed like really early labor, but after being there with me and timing out my contractions, she knew she was here to stay. We tried different positions. I peed a hundred and one times! AND every time I would sit on toilet, I would have contraction. I labored moving around and walking most of the morning and afternoon, but I got tired and so tried the side lying position. This was actually helpful, but did slow the contractions a bit.

We kept the midwife informed and she didn't seem to think that she would see me today but maybe tomorrow. When we decided to head to the birthing center, it was around 6pm (i think). J had sup, and then we went. At that point riding in the car and having contractions was pretty rough. I'd say I did pretty good considering I only let two bad words slip and only in the privacy of my own car! Ha!

We got there, and Amy checked me and found me to be progressing well at 5 cm. It was 80 plus degrees in there cause the air had been off all weekend. I quickly got into my laboring top which kept me fairly cool and labored a bit more. Then I did side lying again.

At this point they were getting more difficult and I had been laboring all day. I wanted to rest and get on with it all at the same time. I have no idea how long I laid there, but it seemed like at least an hour. Amy came back in to check me and found me to not have progressed any further and said that I needed to walk the halls and squat with each contraction. She anticipated that my water would burst any minute...but it didn't. I did the gosh awful squats! Good heavens that was hard! Thank goodness I could share the work and some of the soreness with my hubs and my doula (sorry guys!)

See, when I'm working hard and/or in pain, I don't like to be touched. So, my doula said she felt like she wasn't earning her keep. The birthing ball was terribly uncomfortable when I was contracting so its usefulness disappeared. Her counter pressure was most appreciated in the squatting sessions. So she earned her keep walking the halls of blessed births.

I did progress very quickly this way. In fact the next time I was checked I was at 8 centimeters, and in a great deal of pain. Here comes transition...Now this is supposed to be the most painful part of labor, but also the shortest, usually lasting no more than 30-45 minutes. I stayed stuck in this phase of labor for a good 2 hours or more. In fact, this is when begging and yelling and sitting on the toilet are about all I remember.

I zoned out for the rest of the labor once they made me walk the halls. Seriously, the memories are literally hazy and I don't remember everything that I said. My doula says I did very well. The worst thing I said was "Dangit!" And she laughed cause she thought I was about to say something else. It was so hot, I was stuck...in transition...on the toilet.

But the worst of it was that I was stuck in transition for soooo long. more than 2 hours I think. I was begging for anyone to help me, but no one could. I labored on the toilet till I needed to push and this worried them a little since I wasn't fully dialated, or something like that. But I was pretty close...so I tried to breathe through a bunch of them...which by the way is extremely difficult! When your body wants to push, its a miracle if you can avoid it!

They offered to break my water, since it still hadn't burst, so I said SURE! What ever will help move things along...They did that and I suppose it helped, but like I said I zoned out.

Weird thing is that I actually pushed in the bed laying down! Didn't expect that and didn't really think about it till later. But I just did whatever they said at that point and I was just glad to be pushing. The next part was a battle! I pushed and not for really long, but it felt like it might never end. They say that pushing is better as far as pain cause there is some numbness...but W decided that he wanted to come out with his hand on his cheek, so that added another level of difficulty and pain. Me and the midwife battled over pushing and breathing. I would release air and she would yell don't! He would be almost there and then go back in. Pretty typical.

I pushed like my Cuz in Law said 500%! Not just 100% And finally the head was out. And they say he was wide eyed and turning his head, but his little shoulder was obviously stuck...thanks to his other arm being up by his face. So I'm almost there and Amy, the midwife is pulling while I'm pushing...she's working her magic getting that one arm out so he can turn his body and dislodge his other shoulder. AND...there he is...I was so excited, but so exhausted I hardly knew what to do. They placed him on my chest and he was so slippery I thought I might not be able to hang onto him...

Not to mention, that they told me to hold my own legs while I pushed and that just wore my arms out! J was there beside me the whole time I pushed and instinctively held that leg. In fact, I barely remember asking someone to please hold my other leg...and J stepping in to make that happen by making it known more loudly and firmly. When the other midwife stepped in to hold it, I apparently murmured the most heartfelt "Thank You" she had ever received.

All in all, I'm glad I had that experience. It led those witnessing to really think about the way that Christ suffered for us on the cross...that is really what the child birth curse of Eve's is all about. Mom used the term endured...I endured the pain to get to the child...just like Christ. Love that scenario. That makes it all a bit more worth it. The experience was to me, extremely hard and the verdict is still out as to whether I will ever do that again in that same way, but I must say the recovery for me and little W has been fantastic and very easy! I DO Love That!

One week!

Well we made it through the first week and we are doing really quite well. That is one of the pluses of natural, no drugs, childbirth. Mood wise I'm doing really well too! I mean compared to last post partem...No real baby blues. A little sure, some hormonal fluxes as well, but all in all I'm pleasantly surprised at this recovery.

W is a good baby too! He has a little schedule I swear! Course its only been a week, but he has his awake times and sleepy times, and eats well every 3 hours except at night which there are one or two 4 hour sleep times. In fact, two nights ago, he slept a little over 5 hours and I had to wake him.

Hubs and I have a little schedule going, sort of...though I'm not sure we need it too much, cause he has been easy to put back to sleep...mostly.

Itsamomthing has been so gracious to help out with arranging for food to be brought to us and truthfully, some of you have gone out of your way to bring meals and check in on us before we could even get the chance to actually need something. I am pleasantly surprised, amazed and grateful for your generosity! Considering the recent moving away of ALL of our extended family, it is nice to know that we still have support all around us. Thanks for being the church.

The Birth Pics

Excuse me for the way I look, but really I was about to give birth to a huge baby! haha... I joined this Smilebox thing so those of you that want can print these, at least that is my understanding. If it doesn't work, then let me know and I'll send out something else so you can have these pics for yourself.

I swear the story is to come...

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Can't Wait

Can't wait to sit a post a long drawn out story post about this whole birth experience. As most things in my life, it didn't go exactly as planned, but my doula has aided the story telling with some great and terrible (haha) pics of me and the whole process. She did a fantastic job of being modest and appropriate with them as well, so I can post almost all of them. Woh the story is long and may have to come in installments, as it is hard to get in a long time for blogging.

Mom and baby and family are doing well. we are getting as much rest as is possible and a lot of snuggle time with baby. Thank you SIL for helping with M and summer camp. Thanks to mom who is helping with pretty much everything. Thank you to those of you who have already gone to the trouble to bring us meals. They have been some of the best help you could give.

BTW--LOVE the recovery time of natural childbirth. Feeling tired, but coherent and have been out twice already. Wyatt and I took our guaze moby-like wrap out to the library with M and mom and then made an appearance at J's work cookout today. He loves being in there! and I love being hands free! And snuggling of course.

More to come...pics you can print too.

The wait is over...

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Not in Labor Yet

I'm about to post some oh so flattering pics of myself. Please keep in mind that I am 800 years pregnant and overdue! Ha! After meeting with Julie yesterday, she graciously let me borrow her birthing ball to sit on and roll around on to get baby boy in position. M thought this was pretty cool, so she got out her beach ball and did the same. It was funny and happened more than once today.


Tonight I've been taking it easy and having some contractions. Nothing new mind you except that I haven't really had any contractions to speak of lately, so at least they are back. I intend on going with that and trying to coax them into actual real labor.

That would be primo wouldn't it seeing as my mom just went back out of town today. That would be pretty right on for the way things happen in my family! Who knows. I certainly am not getting my hopes up. Still, I made another of my fave chocolate cakes today. I asked the doula if eating my fave chocolate cake would make my body release oxytocin (if you don't know about this hormone, you'll need to look it up so I don't have to explain it and possibly get some weird lurkers...). She said chocolate cake=oxytocin! So sweet! haha...



Great day. M and her dad played in the "pool" on the porch and managed to make it into a pseudo bathtime. It was fun to watch and take pics. We shall see what tonight holds...

Scattegories

SCATTERGORIES - it's harder than it looks! Copy and paste into a new email. When you have answered all the SCATTERGORIES, send it on to friends but DON'T FORGET to return it to the person who sent it to you.
Use the first letter of your first name to answer each of the following. They have to be real places, names, things - nothing made up. Try to use different answers if the person in front of you had the same first initial - which by the way is hard if you already have read their answers! You cannot use your own name for the boy/girl names.

1. What is your first name: Gini
2. A 4 letter word: good
3. A vehicle: galant

4. A city: greenville

5. A boy's name: George

6. A girl's name: Gail

7. A Drink: GC Cola (sold at ALDI)

8. An occupation: Golfer
9. Something you wear: Gown
10. A celebrity: Gwyneth Paltrow
11. A food: Goolash
12. Something found in a bathroom: gel
13. Reason for being late: got tied up

14. Something you shout: Go! Go! Go!
15. An animal: gorilla

16. A body part: gall bladder
17. Word to describe yourself: goofy
Good luck to the next person!

"...with my God I can scale a wall" 2 Samuel 22:30 (NIV)

Is this getting old?

I'm o.k. really. A little bored maybe cause I didn't plan to be pregnant at this point, but I'm not miserable, or anxious really, or desperate. After being with one of the doulas today I have a great peace. She was so positive and encouraging. Thanks Jules.

I did stair walking...didn't really know that it was supposed to be particularly helpful, but it makes sense. I had steak n shake for lunch with the family (minus hubs who had to be at work). That was good, but man do they skimp on the meat! But I can't complain cause the shake was amazing.

One thing I enjoy about being OH SO pregnant is the stares, laughs, head turns...Seriously. People are amazed or something...I don't know. But I find it somewhat amusing and kind of cool.

I ate dominoes pizza tonight (seriously) because I'll try anything of course...and in talking today it was brought up that there are supposedly prosteglandins in the cheese that dominoes pizza uses, so there was some type of study done about women who go into labor and some type of correlation to dominoes pizza! Ha! why not! so I had that for supper. The doula let me borrow a birthing ball (big exercise ball) for trying to get this boy in place and ready. That'll be pretty cool too.

I did do something that was kind of interesting. I took M swimming at the big pool tonight after sup. I'm not a water person, so this was a deal for me...not to mention that someone as pregnant as I am should NEVER don a big red one piece maternity bathing suit! Ha! Talk about feeling sexy! I sexy walked to the doorway and did my sexiest pose leaning up against the frame and told J "I bet you've never wanted me more!" To which he replied that I looked like a very large cherry! That was funny. Needless to say I wore my oversized shirt and shorts the entire time.

But I'm wondering if it was actually a good idea or not? It did certainly feel different taking a good bit of the weight off of me, and boy when I got out could I feel the heaviness! But seems like baby boy may have moved up a bit in the process of floating around. That certainly wouldn't be the goal. Well, so I cleaned up and did a little bit of stairs at mom's house before I came home again.

Still no more news than that. I suppose he'll come when he is ready. I'll do my part as best I can, but the rest is up to him. And so we wait...

Cream of Whatever Soup

Since I'm not laboring...I thought I'd post about something I meant to post about a while ago.

2 times of late, I have gotten into the middle of cooking something and found that I had run out of cream of mushroom/chicken soup. Now, really I can't stand Cream of Chicken soup. Personal distaste for it. But I use cream of mushroom alot. I usually just keep a bunch on hand, but occasionally I run out and forget to put it on the list.

Well, I decided to see if I could do a substitute and this is what I found.

Cream of whatever Soup
2T butter
2 T canola oil
1/4 c flour
1/4 t salt
add in whatever you are going for (I use mushrooms, chopped)
10 ounces of milk (1 1/4cups)

Heat the butter and oil till it all melts. Add flour and salt. Stir to make roux. Add mushrooms, cook for at least 4 minutes (stirring). Add milk and stir until thick.

I used this again tonight in my Broccoli Rice/chicken casserole.

In making sup, I knew that I had leftover chicken that needed to be used or it'd be wasted. I had broccoli that needed cooking so that it didn't go bad. i had a whole thing of generic ALDI "velveeta" which was just sitting there in my cabinet with no purpose for its future. And rice is something we generally keep stocked. So that is how we came up with dinner. Come to find out in the middle of prepping, we were out of Cream of mushroom soup again...so I made the above recipe.

One of the perks here is that the sodium level is nill and there are no MSG's as opposed to most canned soups. It did take a bit longer, but not bad all in all.

Baby Boy's Room while we wait...

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If you're wondering...

"He" is not here yet. There are signs that he is coming soon. Lost the plug (sorry to those of you who could care less or whatever), so the time is drawing near. I feel VERY tired and emotional. I appreciate all the calls and prayers. Sorry if I haven't called or answered my phone, I'm a bit hormonal right now. I just wanted you all to know that it means a lot to me even when I don't answer.

You know when you go overdue the phone seems to go overdue and you have to keep telling the same news (news that you're not too thrilled with anyway) over and over again. So, I'm going to go and rest. Could be news tomorrow...or not...only God knows.

I'll keep you posted. And yes, as soon as I actually know I'm in labor, I'll sit down and this computer and let you know that "he" is on his way, only I'll use his real name! Fun times ahead.

Due Date Came and Went

Well, still no boy...

I had acupuncture yesterday, but that was interesting and hasn't sent me quickly into labor. I can not say that it wasn't effective. At my visit today, I had the midwife do an exam and she said that I was "ripe" and baby boy's head was low...pushing a station 1. So, it could be anytime, but that doesn't mean much. I'm doing what I can to speed things along.

I've been drinking red raspberry leaf tea, taking some evening primrose capsules with all my other vitamins, and doing acupressure on all the labor inducing points. Walking doesn't seem to help so far, but there are a few other things to make this happen, so, we'll see.

Ah acupuncture. I told J, my hubs, that I'd try almost anything once, and so I did. I didn't really like it. I don't like needles...I'm not super phobic, but they make me uncomfortable. I chose not to look but it was still a mind over matter game in order for me to "relax." It did hurt actually when she would basically thump each needle in place and then twist. Once the needles were there you really didn't feel them, only a warmth or something that my body interpreted as increased blood flow to the area where the needles were. But then she came and "tweaked" or twisted the needles again. I don't believe in all that Chi business either, but I'm sure there is some value in the whole increase of circulation to problematic areas...I don't think I'll do it again. I did really like the lady though.

And that was that. So now I'm waiting. I'll keep you posted.

Still Going

Had Braxton Hicks ALL DAY yesterday! And I mean all day...and yet nothing. Oh so fun. Well, I have an accupuncture appt. set for tomorrow at 9:30a.m. Now, I don't know how I feel about this all, but I figure it's worth a try. I have a cousin who gave it a try and was in labor within 12 hours or so.

Apparently, if you are ready, then your body is to go into labor within 48hrs. So, we shall see and I'll keep you posted for sure.

I've never done this type of thing before, but after talking to Cousin Suzanne, she says if it works great, if it doesn't I'll just feel like I went to the spa! I'm for that!

Wading through Immunizations

I contacted my fave pediatrician, Dr Hales, in New Orleans for his latest and greatest Shot Record. This is what he's chosing to do now.

2 months--Pc, Comvax (Hep B/Hib)
3 months--DPTa, IVP (polio)
4 months--same as 2 months
5 months--same as 3 months
6 months--Pc
7 months--DPTa
12 months--Pc, PPD (that's just the TB test), Comvax
15 months--Varicella (chicken pox), DPTa
18 months--MMR, IVP

Now I'm not sure why he does or doesn't do Rotavirus, but I think I'm going to call and check into that and the MMR. I think it has to do with the fact that Rotavirus is so common and that kids get over it fairly easily. And how does he get by with postponing it to 18months when the AAP recommends it be done no later than 15 months? Personally I'm thrilled that he delays the MMR as it is in combined form.

Today, I talked to my midwife at Blessed Births about all this immunization stuff. She is also the mother of 7 and a grandmother and she said after much prayer and research they chose not to do any immunizations, but that that is indeed a personal choice. I told her that I was interested in doing immunizations as they are required, but not necessarily in that order and such. Breaking them up so as not to overload the infants system. She said that was smart. She also said that you do have a choice and you can pick and chose, you just have to have a pediatrician that will work with you. DHEC is not necessarily the most accomodating in this respect. So, I got some names.

I also got the heads up from Jill T. in my mom to mom group that Upstatemoms.com has a whole story on this with suggestions for peds. in this area. It should give a starting point if you are looking to find someone that can work with you on an alternate vaccine schedule.

Here are the names and such that my midwife suggested: The only heads up she gave was if you have an infant, get an early appt. so your wait doesn't get too long. They do spend a good bit of time with you in the office with the doctor once it is your turn, so they can get behind. (North Hills)

Dr. Gamble
3904 S Highway 14
North Hills Medical Center
Greenville, SC 29615-6138
864-987-9990

and

Holly Tree Family
Dr. Berglind
1338 Highway 14
Simpsonville, SC 29681
8642977091

More M-Antics!

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No news is no news!

Haha. I had my appt. today and they said that it sounds like "he" is getting ready. But that's all they said. I actually lost weight and my blood pressure was back up to 120/70 something...which is of course fine. I'm measuring right on and they suspect him to be about 8 pounds. Other than that...no news.

Today is the full moon...so we'll see if that really matters. Also, I'm pretty tired so it has been a day of rest. I enjoyed a very nice, long nap, as did m. Now it's what's for dinner and what not? Since J is at Tech after 5.

M is thoroughly enjoying summer camp! I'm thrilled. They do art "class" and music "class". They play outside on the playground and so forth! And she did get to be in Cuz' class! I'm thrilled about that cause at least she'll know someone she's very comfortable with!

She is a little sad about not getting to "be" something or someone else every minute! But I have a few pics. I did pic her up a "Raggedy the Ann" wig to go with her dress we found a few weeks ago. Check out my next post about M-Antics!

A Perfect Day

Today was a perfect day. I think the catch is having had a really great night's sleep. Not too many contractions since Friday/Saturday a.m. I've had some off and on, but not consistently.

So, today is the first day in about a week that I woke with renewed energy. Thus, I've been cooking and cleaning since before 8 a.m. My feet are tired, but I feel pretty good otherwise. Working on laundry with J's help. Mom came by and we worked on readying baby boy's room a bit more. I get so far and then can't do much else...but little by little...

Tonight was official "Everyone Pitch in and Clean M's Room" night. Ha. We actually have these periodically. Her room gets like any almost 3 yr old's would. But I don't think I've ever seen it quite like this! Usually if there is a mess, it's at least somewhat organized...but this was total mayhem. But, not anymore! I probably spent well over an hour cleaning. She helped of course, and J helped. Then while they were doing the bath thing, I continued to clean, straighten, organize, get rid of broken toys, items we never use, fix some things that had come apart temporarily, sift through shoes that no longer fit. And lastly, I packed her a little bag in the event that I labor and she needs to go with someone overnite or even all day. So, she is officially ready for the event. AND I clipped her toenails! Seriously! I just about feel like supermom!

The kitchen is a mess though cause of all the cooking I've been doing. Made a huge batch of bran muffins and froze for after the boy. Made honey croissants for b'fast, with sausage for J and M. Made my homemade favorite decaf, sugar free, cold coffee beverage as my own morning treat. I did dishes only to dirty them again! Ha! Did the leftover thing for lunch, but made b'fast casserole for sup since I needed to use the rest of the sausage before it went bad. I paired that with a few of the bran muffins that wouldn't fit in the fridge. I cleaned out the fridge and freezer to make room for some cooking I'm hoping to do tomorrow (for after the boy). That's about all so far, but I'm not sure I'm done yet. I'll give myself maybe another hour or hour and a half, but then it's off to bed.

I'll need my sleep as my mom says these next several days are reserved for walking the boy out. Meaning I suppose I'll do a lot of walking in the hopes that he'll decide he's ready to join us! We are shooting for Wednesday! Ha! as if that matters. Cause my sis can't really come till Wednesday after work, and one of my fave midwife's is on call, and its a full moon. We shall see. With all this anticipation, murphey's law would have me be almost 2 weeks late! Only God truly knows! But I do wait with excitement and anticipation.

No Boy Yet!

Well, it was a really rough night. I did have contractions off and on all night. At one point, I had significant back aches so much that I couldn't get comfortable laying down. So at 3:30am I'm up eating peanut butter crackers, doing exercises to relieve the pain, and finally ended up in the recliner end of the couch for an hour sleeping. Then back to bed again once the back pain had ended.

It was a long and tiring night...and it left me ragged today, but I perked up a bit after a brief nap this afternoon.

Still had contractions off and on all day, but nothing consistent like last night. Hopefully I will have a lovely restful sleep tonight and be reenergized for the cleaning that needs to take place round here tomorrow. Nesting and always preparing for #2's arrival.

Signs of the Times

There have been signs of the approaching child birth. Since about 7:26pm I have had at least 3 obvious contractions and one suspect. That's about 40 minutes apart fairly evenly spaced with the suspect one being 20 min from the previous. So...who even knows. There have been other things, and these contractions aren't painful, just very firm. So I may try to call my doula to give her the heads up. I was extremely tired today about 11:30...I could have done with out lunch in exchange for a nap. But, to no avail. I did get a good nap today and so did M, thus I won't complain.

Other signs are there but lets not gross everyone out. Some details are better left out. We shall see if we make it to Father's Day or the full moon. I don't want to jump to any conclusions. Still, I have a waterproof pad on my side of the bed and we celebrated Father's Day today...just in case.

I found a huge steak on sale at ALDI for like $5.19. It was supposed to be good till the 11th (2 days ago) but it still looked great and was marked down to $2off! So I bought the New York Strip for $3.19 and it fed all three of us very well. I paired that with a box sale box of rice pilaf, the remainder of the broccoli crowns steamed, and the bag of fresh spinach cooked Aunt Minnah style with cheese. Then I used up the way too ripe bananas with an age old box of banana cream pudding and the overstock of marshmallows that I was all to eager to use. melting butter and mixing it with the gingersnap cookie crumbs that I froze last month from some stale box sale cookies, I made a cookie crust. Then, I cut up the over ripe bananas, poured the pudding on top, then topped with marshmallows, and baked for about 15-20min. on 350 degrees. J loves banana pudding!

So he asked for steak for Father's Day and he got it. I bought the steak for 3.19 and everything else was stuff that was in desperate need of using up. M picked him out half a dozen hot pink roses from ALDI totalling 2.99 and we splurged on a fave card at CVS (across the street) for $5 i think. It made kissing sounds and had fish kissing on it. All in all, Father's Day celebration was a huge success (as I put the "Outback Alike Rub" on the steak) and didn't cost much! That's the way I like it. Only about 11 bucks and some change! And we all ate steak! Gotta love that.

I'll keep you posted on the events of this pregnancy if there are any. just had another contraction at 8:55pm. So...

But not Today...

Cuz has a little thing he likes to say that comes from the book Hop on Pop. "See you tomorrow...but not today."

Well, today was not my day. SIL and Bro offered to steal my M for awhile, and being as unintelligent as I am, I told them why don't we all go to see the free movie. Regal Cinemas does this Family Fun Fest all summer and since summer camp begins next week and runs for 6 weeks, we won't have many chances to do this. Now I know our children aren't even 3 and they don't really sit through long movies, but they often do pretty well given enough space, so I thought it might be fun. Plus, who doesn't love Veggie Tales.

Well, the actual movie part went pretty well. They got restless nearer the end, but they had enough open space to keep them occupied till the movie was up. Problem was, due to some interesting interruptions, SIL had to slip out and take the only car, so we had to wait for her return when the movie was over. Now, in grown up time, we didn't really wait long, but in kid world, this is where the meltdowns began. (Not to mention the snacks and juice that they inhaled during the movie). We all went to lunch at Panera, but by this time it was one thing after another with both children. M had had either, not enough sleep since she was up again before 7, too many snacks, or too much stimulation (or all of the above most likely), that she was neither listening, responding, or obeying. It was an uphill battle most of the morning.

We all trek to SIL's car, since it's been working only spurratically to see if maybe it would work so that they could drive it to the shop. it did, so we trekked to Nani's house to get my car. Met at my house, cause the mechanic is literally my neighbor, and it was nap time. Now, M was in no mind for a nap, but that doesn't always mean she won't settle enough to take one. So I put her down like usual and plopped into my bed. I dozed enough to call it a power nap only to hear her open my door and say that her tummy hurt and she needed to potty. So, I give her privacy on the potty at her request...help her clean up her mess (seems to make the whole wiping thing into something messy instead of something to help clean up). Then back to bed. No way has she even begun to sleep.

I try to nap some more, but my brain is now awake even if my body is tired. I hear things...course on my street and in this old house, I always hear things, so I try to give my child the benefit of the doubt. Then there is obvious noise. I head in with Mr. Sad Swat and find her out of her bed playing and trying to take off her clothes. I give her a swat which she didn't expect. This made her sad (broken hearted cry) and she sobs "but nap time's over..." I tell her that naptime is not over if you haven't taken a nap and ask her why she is getting undressed. She says she needs to potty (surely not again, we haven't drank that much seriously). So, we do go again. Then back to bed a third time, to which I tell her that nap time will not be over until she has actually slept, knowing that even if she doesn't nap she will be out of that bed by 5 so that she will actually go to bed tonight.

I haven't heard much from her since, so maybe she actually did fall asleep. In any event, I have to wake her by 5 which should make for one cranky kid, and I'm not too great myself. Couldn't get the rest I needed. Wasn't able to turn off the mom switch at all. Don't feel like making dinner and I'm a little dizzy. Not to mention I ate to much popcorn between today's movie and last night's movie...and I'm mildly allergic to corn...You get the picture.

Hopefully, J's homecoming will be worth all the anticipation. Poor guy. That's a lot to shoulder just coming home from a long days work! But...Tomorrow is another day. We can only hope for the best.

more than 38wks.

Well, I had my appt. today and it was rather uneventful. I gained 1 pound, my blood pressure went down (it wasn't high anyway--but high for me) so now its 104/70 something. I felt better about that since it was creeping up in the 120's... Baby boy has for the most part righted himself. His back was straight on in the middle today and she told me something else I didn't know. That sometimes they find that the baby does rotate when his little back gets colt. That makes some sense cause everytime I sit at this computer for a while, he seems to show more feet. The air blows directly on me for the legs to the tummy. Now I love this! i'm burning up these days. But maybe he's getting chilly! Ha!

I did wake up this a.m. with a bloody nose. One of those kinds that comes at random when you're a kid. And seriously it may have been that long since I've had one...but it went away easily and I was headed to my appt. anyway, so I just asked them about it there. No big deal they said. it does happen in some pregnancies...all that pregnant sinus stuff. I think M was a little concerned cause she covered her head with her blanket while I made it go away. That was kind of cute.

I imagined that that is exactly what she would do if she were invited into the birthing room to see the birth. She might just cover her head with her blanket until someone told her it was over. No...we're not inviting her in there.

No real news I suppose is good news. I got to see my new favorite midwife again. She did look a little weary, and she apologized, but they have dubbed this week birthing week at blessed births cause so far they are working on 4 in the last few days. 2 at a time. She is on call monday-wednesdays so I'm mentally shooting for those days, but really...it doesn't matter, cause all of them are great! And my doula will be the same regardless.

Had a good bit of braxton hicks yesterday, which I was glad for cause I had none last time. At least I know my body is preparing for the birth. Since it was midwife visit day, I just thought I'd update. And that is all. I'm going to go out tonight with a friend! I don't do this often, just me and a gal pal, no kids...So I'm thrilled. Thanks for your prayers about baby boys position. Of course, continue to pray for his safe and healthy delivery. The time will be here soon. If it were to go exactly as M had, I'd be giving birth in the next few days! I don't anticipate this however, but none the less, reality sets in.

In Response to "Rural Doctor"

Love how he/you chose to call me "lady." Haha. Seriously, though. Your comment was certainly "heartfelt" and opinionated. I'm not at all concerned with research that as you said yourself is not definitive. I am a well educated, well informed parent of an unborn child who would like to limit the amount of little known chemical exposures and reactions that my child receives. I like to think of that as good parenting. I realize that I am not a Doctor and do not have a medical degree, but that certainly doesn't make me less suited to be this child's mother.

You obviously didn't bother to read my entire post because your "argument" had something to do with the fact that there is no definitive evidence of a link between shots and autism. Also, you mentioned something to the effect of the whole, "if no one vaccinated, then..." argument. Here are my responses to both.

I stated in my last post that I am not a die-hard no vaccines for you kinda gal. I completely understand and validate the need to vaccinate your kids. My point is to do it in an informed way instead of just assuming that one schedule is right for all children. Last time I did all this new mother stuff, I did things differently. I asked some questions, but mostly I just let healthcare professionals do whatever they wanted. Not to say that they are out to get me or my family members, but rather to say that I mindlessly did most things. The birth, the shots, mostly anything related to healthcare.

Not this time. I have a brain and two degrees. I was accepted into doctoral studies before I began growing this family. I figure its time to use my brain in parenting as well. My intent is to have my child fully vaccinated by the time he is through his third year. This may or may not go according to my plan and I'm o.k. with that. I'm pretty flexible. But I want to give my child a fighting chance at allowing his little body to metabolize and better deal with the amount of chemicals being injected into hi little body all at one time. Thus, I chose to limit his vaccines to two at a time, only one of which will be aluminum containing. Seriously, even if in 50 years they say that there finally is definitive research that suggests no harm or connection at all, what harm is there in spreading out the vaccines.

So, I am fully vaccinating my child, just on a slightly longer schedule...and I say slightly because by the time he is ready for school, he'll have had all the same shots as the other children. Also, about that whole "no definitive link" argument...the problem with that is that there is no definitive studies and research to suggest that there is definitively NOT a link. And that is my gripe. Certainly, we are exposed to enough chemicals in our daily life that are unnecessary, why should I encourage injecting them into a child so small that his little body really can't deal with processing all that yet. What will that do to my child? Who knows...apparently no one, not even dr's and research know as of yet. So, I will protect my child as I see fit. I can't protect him from everyone and everything all the time, but this is something I can do, so I will.

Instead of ruffling your feathers, it should make you feel encouraged that someone actually educated themselves to make wise parenting choices for their family. I'm sure you see many of people in your practice that don't think for themselves. Whether you enjoy that or not, I am not in your practice, nor am I one of those that doesn't think for themselves. Good luck to you in dealing graciously with someone like me who may or may not seek out your services.

Vaccines

A friend and fellow blogger recently asked me my view and thoughts on vaccines for this upcoming addition to my family. And how did she know that indeed I have been doing a lot of thinking and reading up on this very subject.

She and I have a lot of things in common family wise. She has an older daughter about 3 years old who is "advanced" for her age. She did vaccines in the way suggested by their doctor. Now she has a brand new baby boy, with whom she is considering doing vaccines a bit differently for many reasons.

I, too, have a daughter who will be 3 in less than a month, and will soon have a brand new baby boy with whom I am considering (and will certainly make a valiant effort to)doing vaccines differently with him.

I started out with M in New Orleans (barely pre-Katrina), and I took her to the pediatrician for whom I worked. I loved the practice then, but I can appreciate it even more as I learn and grow more as a parent. Miss them alot. I trusted them in a big way! Their vaccine schedule was different. It involved the infant coming in every month starting at 2 months up to about 7months for 2 vaccines. And it went on from there at about 9 months and then 12 months. And then I don't really remember.

When we evacuated, M was due for her first shots, and so we went to the Children's Hospital Clinic in B'ham, AL and they attempted to give her 4 shots while we were there. Well, I wasn't having it. I wanted to stick to the schedule that I was familiar with. Can I tell you it was almost like a marketing scheme with them sending in 3 different people to run through the schpiel with me...trying to convince me that their way was best. I am the mom, so I win! Aces!

Seriously, that's how it was...but I caved eventually and did it in line with the new pediatrician, and really never thought about it again. HOWEVER...with the recent attention on vaccines and autism and such, AND the fact that I'm having a boy, I have done a lot more research this time around. I'm no longer an ignorant parent, just doing whatever someone tells me. AND it makes me appreciate Hales Pediatrics so much more. I realize after research, that they practice an alternative shot schedule that was both safe and effective and got most of the shots that children need at the appropriate times, but they also didn't try to overdue the amount of shots in a visit, and thus expose a child to too many chemicals all at once. I never asked why they did it that way, but I have a feeling that Dr. Hales did his research! He is extremely intelligent and was often keeping up to date. I'm quite sure that I under-appreciated him.

Having said all that...I read The Vaccine Book by Dr. Robert Sears. This is the best one I have found so far. I did not find it to be particularly biased. I felt comforted that it was written by a practicing pediatrician, whose specialty happens to be on vaccine study. He gave a break down of every vaccine and the disease it was intended for. It told how it worked, what was in each one, and I mean down to the differences in doses and manufacturers... The book gave evidence of studies and even warnings that have not yet been proven but can't be disproven. All in all, "Dr. Bob" leaves the whole mess up to you to figure out, but gives a few suggestions on schedules.

I see the value in vaccinating...if we all just quit vaccinating our kids, we'd have a huge problem on our hands in years to come. Still, I don't see the point in over vaccinating or exposing them to too many unknown chemicals all at once, so I am adopting the Alternative Vaccine Schedule. Now this is trickier cause I'll most likely have to pay a little bit more and go to the Dept. of Health to get some of them, but it is worth it, to reduce the risk of ill effects to my child. Here is my choice:

2 months--DTaP, Rotavirus
3 months--Pc, HIB
4 months--DTaP, Rotavirus
5 months--Pc, HIB
6 months--DTaP, Rotavirus
7 months--Pc, HIB
9 months--Polio, Flu (if it is flu season and ONLY if you can get this mercury free)
12 months--Mumps, Polio
15 months--Pc, HIB
18 months--DTaP, Chickenpox
21 months--Flu
2 years--Rubella, Polio
2 1/2 yrs--Hep B, Hep A
3 years--Hep B, Measles, Flu
3 1/2 yrs--Hep B, Hep A
4 years--DTaP, Polio, Flu
5 years--MMR, Flu
6 years--Chickenpox
12 years--Tdap, HPV
12 yrs and 2 months--HPV
13 yrs--HPV, Meningococcal

For more info on this, check out the book at your local library AND go to www.TheVaccineBook.com