Moooo

Just call me Elsie. My milk came in with a vengeance overnight and little miss Bella gained 6oz overnight! She had a weight check this morning and was back up to 8lbs 0.7oz. The Dr seemed surprised since it's not unknown, but just unusual. I promise I didn't weigh her down with anything before putting her on the scale! LOL At least we're done with appts for at least 2 weeks. Yea!!

On the sleep front, I held her or attempted to put her down after feeding her every hour or two until 2am then dh took over and held her while he slept in the chair in the family room. She slept for a good 5 hours in his arms. I still didn't sleep well since I feel guilt over him not sleeping either but at least I got some rest. I'm sure we'll be doing it again tonight. She'll get it eventually.

I do want to thank everyone who has commented and congratulated! I love opening my email the one time a day I get to now (so hard for me!!). I have some wonderful friends!!

2 days old

I don't think I have much to say tonight. I'm hoping for some sleep tonight. She doesn't want to lay on her back at all, but she will sleep on her belly or on your chest or even in your arms. I don't mind her napping on her belly but I can't let her do that all night. I'd never get any sleep since I'd be too worried. So the past 2 nights, one of us has held her practically all night long. It's not going to be easy, but I know I've got to get her to sleep in her bassinet. I'm no good at the co-sleeping.

Took her back to the ped. today and she only lost a couple of ounces and isn't jaundiced. He still wants to see her again in the morning. Lovely. Can't a new mom sleep in for once? We went to leave and my car wouldn't start. I was supposed to be on my way to the birth center for a checkup too. So my mom had to come jump the truck and then we had to buy a new battery. We didn't get to the BC until late this afternoon which meant no nap for anyone but Bella. Anyway, everything looked good and I won't have to go back for 2 weeks.

Bella is crying- gotta go get her.

Invaded

I think this is the first time I've had all day to blog. Not easy with a newborn but I'm still trying.

So first thing this morning we had our first dr appt. Overall it went well. We have to go back again tomorrow and Friday so he can check her weight and watch for jaundice. I'm betting if this wasn't a BC birth, we wouldn't have to do all of this. Anyway, I made the mistake of saying it was a waterbirth on top of a birth center birth and boy did I get a lecture. I rolled my eyes thru most of it. You'd think I was taking business from him! He likened going to a BC the same as if I was a pioneer or indian woman giving birth in the woods 200 years ago. Are you kidding me? I am still worked up over it. He's a great Dr but really, I don't need his opinion on my births. He actually said I shouldn't "advertise" that I had this birth this way bc not all women are that strong. He's seen women die. Again- seriously?! I'm just not sure what the hell to say to that.

So we came home and just as I was finally getting a nap late afternoon(couldn't sleep earlier) we were invaded by the IL's. I had already told my gf it was okay to bring over dinner (yummy btw!!) and my IL's came over with 2 humongous pans of lasagna, salad, cake, and bread. I didn't even know they were coming and all of a sudden I had 5 addt'l people in my house. I may have been a bit rude but I napped a bit more in my room, fed Bella and ate my gf's food. I felt a bit overwhelmed that everyone was here. I was happy to see my Dad though. He didn't get to stay long as I was mid-nap but he got to see his newest grandbaby.

Last night was rough. Bella just doesn't want to sleep by herself. About 1am after I'd tried everything I could think of, I woke dh and he went to the family room with her. She slept with him til 6 this morning so I could get some zzzz's. Even now, she's up and I just fed her and put her down 10min ago. I have a feeling she'll be sleeping with me tonight.

Okay, here are some pics. I finally got some on the PC tonight. The boys held her for the first time and Logan looked so proud. She also had her 1st sponge bath. Thanks to everyone for their comments. I love reading them all!

A Few More Details

I forgot. I did tear even after being in the water for an hour. I tore right along my last tear but it's minor only req. a few stitches. I dreaded getting stitches but with a couple of shots of Lidacaine it wasn't so bad.

Even though she arrived on her due date. she appears to be a week late. I guess there are several signs like peeling skin, creases in the ears and where certain creases on the feet start and stop. Plus my placenta was looking "old". It wouldn't surprise me I guess. Both boys were late too.

We left the BC around 6:30 this morning. It's nice to relax in your own space after giving birth. We walked in the house and Logan was just getting up about 5min later. He was full of smiles when he saw Bella. He's visited her a couple of times today but other than that, he's been blase about it. Ian, OTOH, has been all over her. He wants to "pet" her and keeps saying she's so cute. He wants to know why she's crying and says Poor Babe. LOL It's a role reversal for sure. I expected Ian to be more jealous. We'll see how it all changes in the next few days.

She has her first pediatrician appt in the morning. I was talking to the office and when I said she was born this morning, the girl was incredulous. She couldn't believe it and was asking all kinds of questions once she found out I went to a birth center and had a waterbirth. Most people only have seen it on TV. I'm sure I was the talk of the office this afternoon.

Baby Bella is here

She was born at 2:58am on 3/25. She's 8lbs 2oz and 21.5in long. Apgars were 4 and 9.

We got home around 7:30am this morning so between nursing and attempting to nap, I haven't been on the PC.

I went to bed around 11pm but was up with surges for the entire hour I tried to sleep. Around 12/12:30 I was feeling like I just couldn't do it anymore. I kinda figured it was transition but wasn't sure. Surges were really close together at 3-4min. Around 1am we left for the birth center and when I got there I was at 5cm and 80% so I was able to stay. Yea!! I knew if I hadn't stayed, I probably would have ended up at the hospital again. Melissa (MW) allowed me to go ahead and get in the tub. Surges were still coming fast and furious. I wasn't able to get very comfy in the tub. The minute I sat down, I was right back up on my knees hanging onto the edge trying to get thru it. Less than an hour later, I was feeling really pushy and bearing down. They must have been intense bc the girls came quickly. They added hot water to the tub as it hadn't warmed up to the 100 degrees it needed to be at and dimmed the lights. I kept saying I needed to poop but it was really Bella starting to crown! That was fast! I really didn't think I could do it anymore at that point. It was so intense. Once her head popped out, I had a moment of relief but then came her shoulders. She apparently whooshed right on out. She did have to get some help pinking up. Why must all my babies need help? She also had a knot in her cord. She is a healthy newborn though and is nursing like a champ. She's always wanting to nurse too- makes it really difficult to take a nap. I think she's gonna be a binkie baby for sure. Jen and Julie got to the birth center about 10-15min after she was born so we didn't get any pics of the actual labor but they took TONS of other photos. I'll post some soon!

It's taken me forever to just get this posted so bear with me. I'll be back.

Last post for tonight

Probably....

I'm so tired. I took 3 naps today but man I feel exhausted. I'll be back before you know it though and posting again. No other news....

Update #3

I've been away from the computer, sorry! I was watching Making the Band from last night, eating dinner(Cheesecake Factory) and then I was napping and listening to my HB scripts again while dh watched the boys. I'm still here though!

The surges are def. getting stronger and more painful. To the point where my HB was not working while I was laying in bed. It's gonna be a loonnngg night! Last time I unofficially timed them, they were 12min apart. Still not sufficient enough to get me anywhere I'm guessing. Too far apart to be considered active labor.

I did call my MW and let her know. She already had a mom laboring in the tub so hopefully by the time I get there, it will be all ready for me. I'm staying hydrated and eating. I'm sure I'll be getting into the shower soon. That hot water will feel good. All the surges are felt in my back and butt so hopefully she's not turned. I've been on hands and knees for a while so if she is, hopefully she'll turn back. Posterior babies lead to long labors which I DO NOT WANT!

Update #2

Sorry, no news. I think this may be my longest labor yet. I was able to relax/sleep for an hour before Ian woke me. I listened to my Hypnobabies scripts and was able to relax thru all the surges. I then slept another hour without listening to the scripts and while each surge did wake me, I was able to relax thru them. I'm going to time them for the next hour or so and see what's going on before I call the midwife. I'm just not sure what to tell her yet!

Any ideas what I can do besides walking to get things moving? There's just no way I can take these 2 rambunctious boys on a walk right now. LOL

Update #1

LOL @ Lindsay's comment on my last post. If you've ever participated in a Woot Off, you'll get it!

Right now everything is still in the early stages. Nothing consistent. I was having some surges 10min or so apart and around 53sec. each but then I had a few mild surges only a few minutes apart and 30+sec. each. So I'm sitting on my birth ball rocking and bouncing. My labors tend to be long (the last was around 23hrs start to finish) so I'm really not expecting anything to happen this afternoon. Who knows though? If I were to count from last night to now, we're looking at almost 17hours so far but I slept thru most of that and it's all been mild. I have to go get Logan in about an hour and then I plan on napping while Ian is napping so I won't be back to update until after 3pm at least.

Today the day??

I went to bed with those cx and kept them overnight and this morning. They aren't painful at all yet, but mighty uncomfortable. I'm just doing my thing and relaxing thru them. I also woke up to some **TMI** blood and mucas so my body is most def. getting ready! I'm guessing that if this labor holds up the same as my last one, it will be some time tonight. (Having one now... hang on) I've got an errand to run this morning (bank) and then I'll be back home relaxing and timing. I will keep everyone updated.

Sunday night update

I realize I didn't post what else the boys got from the easter bunny besides Legos (which they've been playing with all day!). They got the Bee Movie and 101 Dalmations plus a bit of candy (including recycled candy from previous parties haha).

Dh finished painting the boys' room and has nearly finished 3 walls in Bella's room. It's taking 3 coats to cover the baby blue in there unfortunately. So now we need at least another gallon. It's so weird to see PINK in that room! He's decided he'd like to put up some crown molding and frame out her window to break it up a bit. Sounds good to me!

I've been having cx for the past 2 hours but nothing consistent. They are def. "real" though as they are starting in my lower back and coming around the front. I think I ended up timing maybe 2 of them. LOL they were 13-15min apart and 86sec long each. This is a very cool tool to save. I've already fielded at least 3-4 calls today to see if she'd come yet. Okay, just because today was my "guess" date (unofficially before the u/s), doesn't mean she'll come that day. According to my u/s, I'm not really due til Tuesday so I still have time. I promise when I'm in early labor, I WILL let you know!

Seriously creepy

I'm borrowing this from Ashley's blog. Check out this robot. It's called the Big Dog Quadruped Robot. It sounds like a giant fly, looks like a weird alien insect and can carry 340lbs. I would NOT want to meet one of these in the woods!

Happy Easter!

As you can see, I'm still here...

The boys woke up to see the easter bunny had been here. By the time dh and I had gotten out of bed, most of the eggs had been opened and dumped out by Ian already. We didn't hide the eggs this year since it rained all day yesterday and overnight. They were supposed to go over to a neighbor's house this morning for an egg hunt too but I'm betting that's cancelled.

Right now, the boys are in the dining room playing with their huge new box of Legos. Dh was always a Lego fan so now he has someone to play with. Hehe. All Legos are banned to the kitchen table unless dh says otherwise and is supervising. WAY too many tiny, itty bitty pieces to lose. And I'm talking TINY. They are having fun and that's what matters though.

Yesterday we finally got started on Bella's room. Nothing like last minute right? Dh scraped off the wallpaper border (bye frog prince) and using a vinegar/water solution, the glue came right off. No chemicals! I went thru all the baby clothes that were still in there and am giving them to friends or charity. I'm sure I'll have more if we ever go thru the attic. Today he's supposed to start painting in there and finish the last wall of the boys' room. We'll see if anything actually gets done.

Fact...

You're 14 percent more likely to give birth on a Tuesday than on any other day of the week — and least likely to deliver on the weekend.

This is from my Babycenter 40wk email. Come on Tuesday! LOL

More Cool Cakes

Check out this slide show.

No baby news....

I'll let you know though if that changes.


I did find some cool new baby/mom stuff while surfing the blogs last night. Why couldn't I have thought of THIS? So much easier and hands free. No offense to the company though, but I don't pay $24.99 for a regular bath towel. I can't do it for a baby bath towel.

And then I found THIS. You can turn any bra into a cross strap or it can hold your straps into place. I could def. use this one. I hate bra straps showing. And going without a bra just can NOT happen- trust me, it wouldn't be pretty.

And if you're in the mood for a bargain this morning- Get US magazine (52 issues) for only $5.97 today! Go HERE and when checking out, use coupon code SLICKDEALS. If you get an error message, hit refresh. I'm sure there are a lot of people trying to get on this deal.

Dropped?- updated

Update: Dh says I have dropped as well. I am convinced.
a) I can breathe again!
b) all her movements are def. lower and closer to my belly button
c) it feels like she's clawing at my bladder
d) there's much more pressure down there

Come on Bella- prove Miss Jen wrong!! LOL
*******


According to Logan's teachers today, I've dropped some. I hadn't really noticed but maybe they are right. I don't feel her so much up in my ribs even when I slouch. That's a good sign! :)

Speaking of school, at least 8/18 students were absent today in Logan's class. There wasn't even a line at the other entrance where the rest of the school picks up for car line (we have a private car line since we're in a seperate building). I wonder what the numbers will be tonight on the news.

Friday AM Update

No news...no more cx overnight although I have had a few this morning.

Ian is 100% better too. (and no vinegar was used Scarlett LOL) It's like he was never even sick.

Despite so many kids/teachers/bus drivers being out of school today, I sent Logan. We don't celebrate Good Friday. Plus he and Ian were already fighting over stupid stuff as soon as they got up this morning. He'd have more fun at school anyway. As I drove by the high school this morning, I checked out the parking lot. Holy moly! There were maybe 20 cars there. Guess they all got permission to skip school.

I got my diaper bag in the mail yesterday. It's so nice! I can't wait to get it all filled up. It is bigger than I expected but I'm sure it won't take me long to pack it full between diapers, wipes, snacks for Ian, sling/mei tai, and extra clothes.

Contractions

I've been feeling quite a few tonight. I made "labor inducing" eggplant parmesan with extra oregano and basil (not this particular recipe though) and there's a full moon tomorrow night. Cross your fingers...although I'm not really expecting anything. And do not comment on here that I still have another week. I really don't want to hear it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Thursday update

No news on the baby front. It's time to come out Bella!!!

Ian has a fever today and is refusing to eat anything. I just got him to drink some watered down juice for the first time and he's usually been thru at least 2 sippy cups by now. He's clingy and keeps telling me he's sick but other than that, he appears fine. Hopefully it's just a 24hr thing.

Logan had a Easter party at school yesterday and they lost Ian. I was in panic mode for a few minutes. Ian followed the kids out to the playground while I stayed and talked to some moms inside. The teachers knew he was there and he even followed them inside but apparently he decided to walk back OUT the door and back to the playground. I was checking all the classrooms when they saw him outside. Good heavens that boy will be the death of me. He could have easily walked out to the parking area. It's just as much my fault though so I certainly don't blame the teachers.

What else.... my MIL brought over a bunch of baby stuff last night. Too bad it all reeks of cigarette smoke. Blech!!!! I may have to return some of it because there's a ton of newborn stuff and Bella may not fit into it if she is as big as expected. We'll see. I can't just wash the stuff either and I can't put it in her room until it's washed. She also bought a mobile but I'm not sure if I want to keep it. It's a jungle theme and while it's brightly colored, it just doesn't "go" with the pink PBK room. What to do?

My girlfriend Kelly from TX sent me a package that I got in the mail yesterday. I've "known" her over the internet for a few years now. We both have Sept 02 boys and I met her and her family in person when they came to Disney. Inside was a couple of cute baby outfits and even a pair of pink baby water shoes! So adorable! Thanks again Kelly!!

My final diaper bag purchase...

For now at least. ;)
It's a Ju-Ju-Be Be Mine. It's kinda like a mini purse/wallet I can keep in my bag or grab and go if I need to run out without the baby. Here's the inside. The color in this pic is a little off I think. It's more of a limey green and brighter turquoise. The good thing about all this stuff(slings/diaper bags) I've bought recently is that only a small amt actually came out of the bank acct. The rest was money I had made and was sitting in my Paypal acct!

A Sign?

I'm not one to really believe in signs although they are fun to contemplate. I had a "sign" last night though. I had a pretty crappy night's sleep but at one point I woke up and for a few minutes I just felt wide awake. So I turned over to see what time it was and nearly clear as day (I didn't put my glasses on and I'm blind as a bat without them) it said 3:21. The exact day I want Bella to come!! Hmmm....a sign??

Surprise!

I was asking today why every time they marked my chart at the birth center, it was off by a couple of days. Today I should have been 39 wks, 2 days but instead they had me at 39wks. Well, according to my LMP, I would be due on the 23rd but according the the ultrasound they did at 20wks or so, I'm now due on the 25th!! Nooooooo!! Don't add more days!!!

My appt went well overall. Iron is perfect. I did have trace amts of protein and ketones but I didn't have any water this morning, only a little oj and milk so they aren't worried about it. BP was fine and Bella's HR is great.

To my sweet little girl snuggled up so content inside my belly, this is your eviction notice!! It's time to come out and meet the world.

Bought a diaper bag!

A sweet mama on a FSOT diaper bag group I joined is sending me this gorgeous bag. I got a great deal on it so I may have to buy a 2nd bag now too(maybe a Ju-Ju-Be?). LOL It's a Fleurville Sling Tote in Aqua Cord. So purty!!! I love that their bags are "green" too. It can be used over the shoulder, as a messenger bag or it attaches to your stroller. I can't wait to get it and fill it up!

Happy St Patty's Day!

Did the leprechauns come visit your house this morning? They did ours! Logan was so excited! They left him and Ian some green milk, Lucky Charms cereal, a new toothbrush and some green Jelly Bellys. Everyone is wearing their green today so noone gets pinched! May the luck of the Irish be with you today!

ETA: Here's a pic of last year's leprechaun visit. They got toothbrushes, green jello, Lucky Charms, new forks/spoons, bubbles and gold coins (which I couldn't locate this year). The leprechauns also left dirty footprints on the train table. Naughty things!

Cake Decorating

I love decorating cakes but I don't think I have the skills to make these. Go check them out!

http://photowebs.blogspot.com/2008/03/more-cake-decoration-ideas.html

http://photowebs.blogspot.com/2008/03/unusual-cake-idea-for-birthday-or.html

And if you ever want to see someone make cakes like these- go check out Ace Of Cakes on the Food Network. They make some awesome stuff!

Do I have 2 heads?

Because one of the ladies at Petite Elite looked at me like I did when I told her I didn't see the need for a nursing cover up (she asked if I needed one). I pointed out that they actually make you stand out when you are nursing IMO. I know automatically when someone is nursing and wearing one. Most of the time you can't tell a mom is nursing her baby. I've seen a few at the mall and I never know if she is or not if it's done discreetly. This lady acted like I was going to let it all hang out though if I didn't wear one! Ugh...

Btw, they STILL don't have the freakin Radians in and don't know when they will. I talked to them last year about it! I'm going to have to give in and buy the darn things online and hope they fit.

Pics of the Coach bags I have left

Someone was asking to see pics so here is what I have....

10725


10582 (color looks a bit washed out here)


10441

Improv Everywhere

In case you don't read my friend Holly's blog (but you really should), go check out this Improv group. So freakin funny!

39 Weeks

And still going..... BP is good, HB is good. Bella is in a good position....could someone please tell her it's time to come out! Everyone is waiting to meet her!

In the Motherhood Part 2.......

Thanks to Leslie, I found out there are more ITM videos out there! Go check them out on YouTube. Here's a link to Episode 1. You can see the rest in the box next to it.

Episode 2 is great. While he wasn't allowed to run off on the plane, I've SO been there! It was horrible, embarassing and there was nothing I could do. That is why I'll never take my kids on a plane again until they are much older!

Here's their link too. In The Motherhood. Check it out for Season 2.

Makes my blood boil

It's a really good thing I'm not a cop. It's a really good thing that Logan will be going to a school within walking distance where I know people do the school zone speed limit(no choice as the road gets stacked up). I hate, hate, hate driving him to school thru the 2 school zones we have to go thru every morning. Car after car after car never slow down!!! Seriously, are they that blind they can't see a big ass flashing yellow light?? Maybe they should get OFF the cell phones! Thankfully, there are no kids going to school still at this time of morning- they are already in class but that's so not the point. I know I've touched on this before on my blog but it makes my blood pressure go up every day! I want to honk at them or get a license number or do something!

In the Motherhood

Got this off a new fave blog- One Chic Mama.

Contractions

By the way, I'm still having cx every once in a while. These are all below the belly button and do go away so I'm not in labor or anything. They don't hurt but they are uncomfortable. I just make myself relax thru them. Dh is too funny, he's been calling me every morning to make sure "everything is okay". I keep telling him that I promise to call him if I feel like anything is happening. LOL

What to blog about....

I usually don't have a problem coming up with something to talk about, boring as it may be. I haven't been on the PC much today though so I guess I've had no inspiration.

I did buy a new baby carrier today. It's an Octi Mei Tai made from turquoise solarveil. I can't link you to a pic so you'll have to wait for me to get it and I'll show it off then. You can look up Mei Tai though and you'll get a general idea. Mine also has a hood on it to keep the sun off baby's head. I can't wait to get it. It was used by another BW mama so I got it at a great price.

Dh is working tonight so I have the boys all night long. Ian is being a wild man as usual. He's so cute though. Right now he's wearing a tiger halloween costume a friend gave me years ago for Logan. He's running around yelling ROAR. He discovered a new stunt yesterday. He really wanted some candy off the countertop so he pushed a case of pepsi over (not the stunt), stood on top and climbed the closed door of the dishwasher while I was standing there watching him using his Crocs for traction. He's a monkey I tell you! Logan is begging for food again even though he just ate dinner. Where does he put it all?? I'll BBL.

WTF?!

http://www6.comcast.net/news/articles/national/2008/03/12/Woman.In.Bathroom/

Read it, just read it....I have no words.....

Diaper Bags part 2

Now I'm looking between FV and Ju-ju-be bags. Someone said their FV bag was ruined when soymilk was spilled inside but noone else has had that problem and everyone has raved about them. JJB is waterproof both inside and out and has an assortment of cool fabrics and sizes. So many decisions!!!

Linds, I know you mentioned PPB but they can't be washed or even dry cleaned and supposedly they stain easily. Just FYI!

I'm not wired to make all these decisions!!

Diaper Bags

ha! You thought I was having a hard time finding a sling/mei tai, let me tell you it's worse trying to find a diaper bag! I can't find anything I like that doesn't cost over $200. Okay, only partially true. I do like the Fleurville Suzy Pak(on sale for $70) but I just read that someone had something spill in a Fleurville and it was basically ruined since it can't be cleaned all the way thru- only wiped clean. I don't care for Vera Bradley prints personally. I don't like blah looking bags even if they are functional like the SkipHop bags. I don't want just a plain backpack either. Ugh! Why must I be so indecisive?? I'm running out of time here! Nothing at Target or BRU has caught my eye at all. Anyone have a suggestion for a good diaper bag?

Dumb Laws

Here are some of FL's dumb/crazy laws. Go check out yours! From http://www.dumblaws.com/laws/united-states

• Women may be fined for falling asleep under a hair dryer, as can the salon owner.
• If an elephant is left tied to a parking meter, the parking fee has to be paid just as it would for a vehicle.
• It is illegal to sing in a public place while attired in a swimsuit.
• Men may not be seen publicly in any kind of strapless gown.
• Having sexual relations with a porcupine is illegal. (who the hell actually did this for it to become a law??!!)
• When having sex, only the missionary position is legal.
• You may not fart in a public place after 6 P.
• It is considered an offense to shower naked.
• You are not allowed to break more than three dishes per day, or chip the edges of more than four cups and/or saucers.
• Oral sex is illegal.

From http://www.crazylaws.com/

• Florida law forbids rats to leave the ships docked in Tampa Bay
• In Florida it is illegal to fish while driving across a bridge.
• Tampa Bay: It is illegal to eat cottage cheese on Sunday after 6:00 P.M.
• Pensacola: Citizens may not be caught downtown without at least 10 dollars on their person; It is illegal to roll a barrel on any street, fines go up according to the contents of the barrel; A women can be fined (only after death), for being electrocuted in a bath-tub because of using self-beautification utensils.

Speaking of shoes...

How cute are these??

Oohhhhh

Crocs has come out with some more cute sandals!! I can't wait to see them in store! I was just browsing their website and saw THESE and THESE. They've also come out with some cute new shoes for the kids! Why can't they be available on shoebuy yet???

WTH?!

Only a high maintenance woman would wear THESE. I just can't imagine the everyday Mom or even a single girl wearing those! Where would you where them? They don't look remotely comfortable!

Can you imagine wearing THESE at the local pool? LOL Wouldn't you just be uber-cool! Not! (Upon further reading, these may be just an art display)

On the "plus" side, check out these real women models! Click on the gallery link for more pics.

This was great!

I've had these kinds of days....in an office and at home!

glumbert - Bad Day at the Office

Links to my Craigslist purses

http://tampa.craigslist.org/clo/602162884.html

http://tampa.craigslist.org/clo/602158662.html SOLD

http://tampa.craigslist.org/clo/602153754.html SOLD

http://tampa.craigslist.org/clo/602147371.html SOLD

http://tampa.craigslist.org/clo/602142954.html

http://tampa.craigslist.org/clo/602137718.html

NWT Coach purses!

Apparently I broke something of dh's (new dashboard thing for his radio for his new car) when I set some groceries on top of it (or so he says) so I finally put all my Coach purses up on Craigslist tonight. If you know of anyone who would like one, now's the time! All are 50% off!

To any of my BBC gals or internet friends (I know who you are!), I'll ship for free!!!

Cross your fingers these sell!

More Ian-speak

"You go Bye-byes and give me hi scream?"
(Will you go to Campbell's and get me some ice cream?)

"I wanna talk you a few mimuts."
(I want to talk to you for a few minutes)

Ninners
(Fingers)

Time change sucks

All I wanted to do was sleep-in this morning. It was dark and so quiet in the house (Ian wasn't even awake yet). Why do we still do this? (That's a rhetorical question so noone feels the need to link it for me) Blah!

What I actually did today

Dh and the boys were gone for probably 6 hours today or so. I'm not sure I got 6 hours of work done but I did do some things! Let's see...

• Moved filing cabinet into closet.
• Moved Ian's clothes from dresser into cabinet (they fit really well btw!!). Still need one more which is on backorder.
• Cleaned up boys' room.
• Moved Bella's clothes and stuff into drawers.
• Took down and gathered most of Ian's crib set for auction. :( I love his frogs and hate to sell them.
• Put up the pack n play where Bella will sleep for the first month or so in our room.
• Finished packing my birth center bag- well 99% of it.
• Did umpteen loads of laundry. Still not quite done.

What's left? So freakin much!

• Painting Bella's room which also means tearing down the wallpaper border in there first. (DH's job)
• Putting the nursery together. Buying curtain for her closet.
• Buying all the snacks/drinks I need during labor and packing them.
• Gathering all the last minute essentials like contact stuff, cameras, etc the day I'm in labor.
• Finish painting the boys' room. (DH's job) Buying curtain for their closet.
• Buy a baby bathtub, sleepsacks and diaper holder thingy.
• Possibly buy new carseat for Bella.
• Oh and last but not least....have a baby!

I'm sure there's more that I'm forgetting but there's your short list. See, I did accomplish something today. Of course, I also stalked the FSOT board on thebabywearer and inquired about a Mei Tai that was for sale and also I blogged and read everyone else's blog (that actually wrote something today!). I feel no guilt!

It's sooo quiet....ahhhhh

Dh just left with the boys. They are headed to St Pete to his bff's house to help him hang the big screen we just sold him and then to his brother's for our neice's birthday party. I chose to stay home today. I have a lot I need to do before Bella gets here but right now I'm just enjoying the peace and quiet. No fighting, no crying, no cartoons, no "I'm hungry" (bc you know I never feed them- haha). It's so quiet....ahhhhh.

I'm going to enjoy it for a few minutes more then it's back to work. It's peaceful work though!

Disney time again!

We drove over to Disney-Hollywood Studios today (formerly MGM) and renewed our passes for the year. Yippee!! Man was it BUSY! Cheerleaders everywhere!!!! We were there a few weeks ago and there was a competition going on so I totally didn't expect there to be another one this weekend. Oh well! We did get to see the new Playhouse Disney show though. It's basically the same as the Live On Stage show but with puppets. Very cute! It featured Mickey & Friends from Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, Little Einsteins, Handy Manny and My Friends Tigger and Pooh (and friends). If you're kids love those shows, they would have a blast!

So we ended up walking around the park several times as Ian fell asleep and I was actually having some painless cx on the way home. At one point, I started timing them just to see and they were about 10min apart but then they pretty much stopped. I was probably just dehydrated or something. At least I know my body is working! LOL

This was more than likely the last time we'll get to head to Disney before the baby gets here so I'm glad we got to go. We'll be back though soon!

Observation

While looking over my blog just now, I came back across my 37 wk preggo pic from a few days ago. You can so TOTALLY tell I've gained a ton this pregnancy. Check it out for yourself- over on the left <--- is my profile pic when I was just barely pregnant. Now look at me farther down. My face is fat and we won't go into the rest of me! LOL Don't worry, I'm not down on myself about it and I appreciate all the compliments I've gotten recently that I look good. It's just an observation! Between birth, breastfeeding and getting back on the WW wagon sometime in May, I'll be back to my slim, hot self in no time. I'll just have bigger boobs! ;)

Baby Wearing part 2

I may get addicted to this. Sshhhh don't tell dh! I joined Thebabywearer.com and I just bought my first used ring sling. It's a Solarveil in a gorgeous turquoise color. Solarveil will be perfect in FL since it's cool, has UV protection and dries quickly if you wear it in the water.

I think I'll still be buying a K'tan and eventually a Mei Tai. I like that I can buy them used though and can always turn around and resell them on the same site later. Now I'll probably be stalking the boards trying to find my next buy. LOL

There is SOOO much info on this site about babywearing! If you ever thought about BW, you have to go check it out! Lindsey, I bet you could even find info on wearing your twins! It would give you your hands free to handle the other boys!

Fellow Bloggers

Fair warning- if you do not keep up with your blogs, you will be deleted from my "Everyday Blog" reading list! I get tired of opening up a dozen pages every day and NOTHING has been written. This is mainly pointed at the girls who used to be in the blogging contest and are no longer....just because you are out, doesn't mean you can't still type! Did you break your fingers? You have kids, something must be going on!

Do not throw stones

In my calm blue ocean.

I do not need or want to hear about pain meds.
I do not want or need to use them.

Hell, I CAN'T use them. What should I take, Tylenol??

I'm going to a free standing birth center. There are no OB's. There are no anesthesiologists. There are no nurses.

There's only me, my dh, my midwife and her assistants. And anyone else I may want to come along.

I am working with midwives with years of experience who never leave my side to check on other patients. I have birth assistants who never leave my side. I plan on being in a warm pool of water to help relieve pain. I plan on going inside myself while listening to my Hypnobirthing scripts and relaxing. I plan on having a calm, gentle birth.

Women were designed to have babies. We've been doing it for years and years and years. Having a baby is not medical, it's miracle.

Whether my Bella is 6lbs or 10lbs, I want her to have the best entrance into this world she can. A calm, gentle birth. Not one with harsh lights and cold air. No poking and prodding the minute she's out. It's hard being in a warm, dark womb and all of a sudden thrust into those conditions. Wouldn't you feel the same way? Think about it like living in a warm cave for 9mo and having no sunlight only to be thrust into a sunny but cold world with no warning.

This is the birthing experience I want. Do not throw stones in my calm blue ocean.

Oh joy!

Just got home from my midwife appt and Melissa, who is known for being pretty accurate, has guessed I probably have a month left and this baby will be close to 10lbs! Lord help me! Bella is apparently long and solid. She's guessing she's probably close to 8lbs right now and I'm measuring 39 weeks. Can I start self induction measures now???

Ian-isms

Uncabrella- umbrella

Mickey brella- Mickey Mouse umbrella

"I super fast!" (as he runs and trips over his own feet)

Mackamoni- macaroni

Trouble Sleeping!

The past 2 nights my brain has refused to shut off. Monday night was all about carseats. What to get, when to get them, will they fit, etc.... Last night was all about having to pee (I had to get up more than once for some reason) and thinking about contractions and forget trying to roll over in bed- that's nearly impossible anymore without pain. Ugh...

it's almost over,

it's almost over,

it's almost over....

Amazing (may gross out any foot people)

This thing is the shiznit!


I've heard all these great things about it from the girls on the bargain board so I bought one at Target. My feet aren't that bad really, but I do get that dry skin on the heels sometimes. It looks like a cheese grater. Kinda scary to think about. But it really does work and doesn't hurt at all. You just rub it against your dry skin and it leaves your feet really soft and smooth. It even collects all the "shavings" in itself so you can just dump them when you are done. No mess! So if you can't make it to the salon to get a pedicure, do yourself a favor and go grab one of these! You'll thank me for it later. :)

Oh and if you want a bargain price, go look for it at Bed, Bath & Beyond or Linens & Things and use a 20% off coupon. It's only $9.99 regularly.

So comfy

Let me tell you just how comfy I am right now....I am wearing my Crocs Capri flip flops, Old Navy yoga capris and tshirt and a new nursing bra that is ultra comfy compared to what I had been wearing. Aahhhhh. Nothing is too tight, I can somewhat breathe and I don't look like a total slob. Haha. Too bad I didn't discover all this months ago!

Made up for it

Since I didn't do much shopping on Saturday, I more than made up for it tonight! I even got to go all by MYSELF!

I got a nursing bra at JCP and 6 little outfits for Bella. Only $10 OOP after my gift cards. The outfits were supposed to be 2/$20 and at least 2 of them had clearance tags for $8.99 so she rang them all up for that price. Saved me some money!

Then I went over to Motherhood and got 2 night nursing bras, 2 day nursing bras, a Glamourmom tank and 2 nursing tshirts- after GC I think it was still like $80+ OOP.

Next I went over to Target. I didn't use my GC there since I wasn't buying baby stuff. I did get a pack of Luvs practically free after coupons though. There's a web coupon for $5/3 packs plus there was a $1.50 coupon on boxes. I should have pulled 2 more of those $1.50 coupons. Oh well! I got the boys 2 of the talking big non-transforming Transformers as a gift from Bella when she arrives. They are safely hidden in the trunk of dh's car. Ian is way too nosy to leave it in the house. They both love that movie. I know they'll love these.

I took the new car tonight. This was pretty much the first time I've driven it any distance. (I drove it from the dealer to Sweet Tomatoes when we got it). It drives really nice! Very smooth and has good pickup for a 4cyl. I can't wait to get the radio and speakers switched out though. They sounds like crap compared to what I'm used to now. Haha! I'm spoiled in my truck.

Right up my alley!

Check it out- new Pepsi Raw. Think it will come in diet? Anyone know someone in the UK who would be willing to ship me some? I want to try it!!

Eww ouch eww!!

WHY would anyone ever do this?? OMG!!

Eyeball tattoos!!!

And an article about itfrom the NY Post.

Okay, so I guess if you have real medical reasons, it could be good for you but for vanity- it just gives me the willies! This is definately not a fad I'll be getting into!

PS: Don't forget to check out the "worst" tattoos ever either!

What a great commercial!

I just saw this on TV so I had to go find it on YouTube.
I can just see Ian doing something like this!!

37 week belly shot

Unbeknownst to me, this pic was taken of me today by Melodie at our playgroup's Easter party. It's a good shot though. Better than what dh took of me last week in only my bra and pants. At least you are spared the stretch marks!

It's party time!

We've had a busy weekend! Logan was invited to a birthday party on Saturday. It was his buddy's 5th birthday and they had a reptile party. Logan got to touch snakes, lizards (including one called a legless lizard), turtles and even an alligator! He was nervous before we left about the snakes but he was okay when it came down to it. I have to say, I was very proud of how well he sat and listened while other kids were jumping around, not raising hands and interrupting the speaker.

Today we had our annual playgroup Easter Party at Andrea's. She's hosted nearly every year except last I believe. We had an awesome turnout and since we did it on the weekend for the first time we even had some Dads there. All the kids had a wonderful time! We let the 3 and under crowd go Easter Egg hunting first and then the older kids. They loved it. After that, we had lots of sugary snacks and the kids got to run around the yard and be wild. I think Logan brought most of her sand box home with him. He was covered! Thank you Andrea for hosting yet again, you always throw a great party!

Shopping and celebrity spotting...

Tonight we went out to Westshore mall so I could try to exchange some maternity clothes I had. I was able to exchange the shirts for smaller ones but they had no yoga pants in maternity OR regular sizes. WTH? So it looks like I'm still going to have to exchange them by mail. Booooo. They are the only Old Navy around with a maternity section too.

So I'm so not a celebrity stalker which is why I don't have an actual picture of her but guess who I saw at the mall?? Brittany Snow!! I recognized her (at least I hope it was her but if it wasn't she was a twin!) and I did a double take to make sure but I'm 99% positive it was. She was inside Starbucks with a friend although she wasn't actually drinking the Starbucks, she had a Smoothie King cup in her hand. Her hair was kinda messy but that's all I remember. I couldn't even tell you what she had on. LOL How's that for details! Dh wasn't impressed and didn't even know who she was. I do though! I loved her show American Dreams and she was in the remake of Hairspray. I think this was my 1st ever celebrity spotting!

While at the mall, we ate at EVOS. Yummo! Can we put one of these in our town please???? I even had an organic chocolate shake with my dinner. Mmmm. It was low in calories too(when compared to fast food places). Their ketchups are good too. I like the garlic one.

I also had my SIM card for my phone upgraded. I can now send text messages. Woohoo! My card was the original I got like 10 years ago. Ha!! The guys at Tmobile were loving my new phone. Said it was the best phone out there right now. I guess to them cell phones are like car seats are to me. It's just their "thing". So now if anyone needs to text me, I can actually reply!

Would you believe we didn't buy anything else? You're surprised aren't you? I know, the Queen of Shopping, didn't shop! I found a cute dress at TCP for Bella but it was on "sale" at only $1.50 off regular price. Not what I was looking for. I'll wait.....

From the inmates...

Who brought you Thriller, I now bring you Soulja Boy.



I wonder if this is what they do all day. Sounds like a fun prison sentence. Check out YouTube for more!

Good Heavens!

I just switched the carseats around for what the 3rd, 4th time now?? Now I'm hot and tired. Well I was already tired but now I'm out of breath too. Bella's seat is in the Civic (love that new car smell), Logan's seat is now behind the passenger in the Pilot and in order to get Logan's in, I had to undo Ian's and reinstall it back in the middle. Bella will be behind me when it's reinstalled in my truck. Phew!

*******
On another note, I hurt!! This groin pain is getting worse. It's only on the left side too. It hurts to walk. It all has to do with the pregnancy and hormones and will go away but it's getting tougher to get in and out of bed, much less just roll over in bed. I waddle now because of it too. Lovely. Come on baby....3 weeks left.....

This is hilarious!

Jennifer and Jim kept getting huge water bills. They knew beyond a doubt that the bills weren't representative of their actual usage, and no matter how they tried to conserve, the high bills continued. Although they could see nothing wrong, they had everything checked for leaks or problems: first the water meter, then outdoor pipes, indoor pipes, underground pipes, faucets, toilets, washer, ice maker, etc. -all to no avail. One day Jim was sick and stayed home in bed, but kept hearing water running downstairs. He finally tore himself from his sick bed to investigate, and stumbled onto the cause of such high water bills. Apparently this was happening all day long when they were not at home. Knowing that few would believe him, he taped a segment of the 'problem' for posterity -

http://summitprops.com/WaterLeak.htm

For the little traveler in your life....

I present the Playmobile Security Check Point.

ROFL

I saw this on the bargain board this morning. Do they also carry a strip search toy? Does it come with any contraband like tweezers?

Scary videos

Came across these while doing some research online on an unrelated subject....

Why you should never hold your infant while driving!

Just one more story...

This article would be why Rearfacing in a carseat is safest and even extended rear facing is better than turning your child just because they turned a year old.

Post o' Misc.

I'm not one to be in a hurry but I can't stand sllooooowwww drivers. 35 in a 55? Come on! The same driver got on the interstate and tried doing 40 into a 70mph zone on the on ramp. I zipped around him quick! I'm sorry, but I think it's more dangerous to go so damn slow!

On the way home on the interstate, once again I got stuck behind someone who thought doing 55-60 in a 70 in the MIDDLE lane was okay. Argh! Move over!

*******
The boys' fighting is driving me nuts. Ian screeches and it's like nails on a chalkboard. I'm ready to sell them both to the circus.

*******
Things I didn't know:
per Logan- the long necked dinosaur is a "stretchosaurus" (he was talking about the dino over by Dino World off the interstate)
In Florida, cars don't turn into Transformers (I guess they do in other states?)

******
Almost 37 weeks!! Had a MW appt today and they were surprised to see me. Apparently I had the time right and the date wrong. Oops! I swear they told me Thursday. Luckily my midwife was there doing a postnatal appt and had me wait.

I told her just how high Bella seemed to be which is so different than the boys ever were. When she was checking my belly, she was surprised at just how high she really is. I'm hoping she drops sometime soon.

I got my Group B strep results and they were negative. Yea!!! No IV for me!! I also found out in order to take oral antibiotics for GBS, you'd have to take them for 21 days. Wow! Also, the IV is only good for 6 hours. If you are still laboring after that, you're getting another IV.

I go back next Wed. for my weekly checkup.

Wow!

Now here's a shocking story for you... She's a miracle baby!

Horrible?

My ever so sweet dh wants to take me to Bern's Steak House either this weekend or next as a last hurrah before the baby comes. How bad is it that I really don't want to go? I have nothing to wear and honestly, at this time nothing on the menu sounds very good to me. If I wasn't pregnant, I'd probably jump at the chance though. Am I horrible? Maybe I'll change my mind tomorrow although I still have nothing to wear!

ROFL

Ever wish you had a voodoo type doll for that prick in your life? Ever wish you could rip your uterus out and hurl it against a wall when you are PMS'ing? Go check these cute pin cushions out! I love it!!

Here it is...

This is what dh bought me for my birthday... so far it's very cool, but not easy to learn. There's just SOOO much this thing does!! It has GPS, a 5mp camera with Carl Zeiss lens, a lower end camera, video, MP3 player, internet, radio....and I'm sure there's more. The only downside is it's not a supported phone in the US yet so I can't just download stuff from my provider for it. Not to mention, I don't have internet service on my phone plan so some of the stuff on here can't be used yet unless I'm in a free WIFI network.

Ask me in a year if I like it or not. Hopefully by then, I'll be able to use it! Haha!


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Oh and as for dinner....mmmmmm...my BIL/SIL came by and ate too. I got the Chicken Madiera which was so tender I was able to cut it with a plastic knife. Dh got the Incredible Eggplant Sandwich which he loved. We got the Fire Roasted Artichoke which was okay. I'd heard good things about it. There's still a whole artichoke left though. And we got the Avocado Eggrolls which dh likes more than I do. Warm avocado just isn't my thing. They do taste good though. He also bought 4 slices of cheesecake for all of us to share (including the boys). Yummo!

My gift is....

Not here yet!!! (insert drumming fingers on desk) Where is UPS?????

On the plus side, I'm getting Cheesecake Factory for dinner. Yum!!

Today is my birthday!

And so far I've had to break up fights, explain to both boys that need to share, taken Logan to school, gone to SuperTarget for groceries (it's supposed to storm tonight so I'd rather fight Ian in the store than the rain later), gone to the bank, come home and put away groceries and made lunches. I've also taken phone calls from my Dad and dh wishing me a Happy Birthday(and just now my eldest BIL). Still no gift yet....UPS is supposed to drop it off today and it has to be signed for. Hmmm wonder what it is!!!

Here are a few highlights about my birth day!

#1- I was born!! What would your life be like without me in it?? :)

1975 Prices
Bread: $0.28
Milk: $1.40
Eggs: $1.26
Car: $4,950
Gas: $0.57
House: $42,600
Stamp: $0.10
Avg Income: $15,546
Min Wage: $2.10/hr

US President: Gerald Ford

Hot new toys/fads: Holly Hobbie Oven, Hello Kitty, Rubik's Cube, Mood Rings, PEZ candy, Magic 8 Balls

People who share my birthday: Fats Domino, John Kellogg, King Wenceslas, Buffalo Bill Cody, Erykah Badu, Micheal Bolton, Levi Strauss, William Frawley (I Love Lucy), Jackie Gleason...

UFO Siteing: http://www.ufoevidence.org/cases/case269.htm

Argh!

We picked up the new Civic tonight. I have to get used to such a small car. I felt like my head was going to bump the roof! Dh fits in it though and that's what really matters.

Now what's the problem? It will NOT fit 3 carseats. Not a chance in hell. The slimmest seat on the market is the SK Radian at 17" wide and 2 of those don't leave enough room for even the slimmest of slim carseats/booster seats and definately no room for just a child to sit. (This is going strictly from measurements and not actually trying out the seats. SKR's website says I need 51in of room and I have 50" for 3 across)

Soooo now we have to decide what to do. Do we keep our van as a backup 3rd vehicle or if something happens to my truck, do we just rent a vehicle for the few days it takes to fix it? (I love my Pilot and do not want to get rid of it) Keeping it means an extra $67/mo, maybe less if we take off full coverage for insurance. Or we've discussed selling both vehicles and buying a newer van BUT again, we still don't have a back up vehicle that will fit all 5 of us. ARGH!

The Yucks

I was down and out yesterday. Logan woke me up at 7:30 having tummy issues of the kind I needed to wash him up afterwards. Nice. So into the shower he went. He had more tummy issues through out the rest of the morning too but for the most part he made it to the bathroom.

Of course, then I had to start too. Mine was worse though as it lasted all day. So I woke up at 7:30 and was back in bed by 10:30am, slept til like 1pm, got up til 3:30 and back to bed again until like 5:30. I finally gave up and took some Immodium which didn't work the first time but did work the second time. Thank goodness! I went to bed at midnight thinking I'll never be able to sleep after all that napping but surprisingly I was able to sleep pretty well. Guess I still had some recuperating to do. We both seem to be okay this morning but I'm keeping him home just in case.

I'll be back to hopefully post some pics of my baby shower later!

Pampered Saturday

I didn't do much yesterday. I woke up and got ready to go get my hair done. Had my hair colored, highlighted and cut. Came home, ate some lunch and took a nap. Sounds like a relaxing afternoon doesn't it?

I had a Mom's Night In last night so after I got up from my nap, I started in on my cheesecake cups. Everyone said they loved them. I ended up filling my little thimble sized chocolate "shot" glasses with regular cheesecake and some I had mixed with strawberry puree. Mmm. Got ready to go to Jen's and my keys were gone!! I only have one key to my Pilot and I was flipping out that it had disappeared. I knew I always put them in my purse when I walked into the house but they were not there. Ian was the #1 suspect. Little did I know....

Dh ended up "finding" them about 10min later so off I went. I still didn't suspect a thing. Got to Jen's, ate some food and was hanging out with the girls when Jen and Julie came walking out of the bedroom with a cake (cupcake cake). My first thought was that it was to celebrate Amy and my birthday but it wasn't! It said "It's a Girl, Princess Bella" and had a crown and sceptor on it. Awww. It was so cute. Turns out, I had a surprise baby shower! I got some gift cards, cute clothes for Bella, beautiful picture frames Andrea made and I still have a couple of things coming like knitted baby booties from Amy and a knitted dress from Julie. I have some wonderful friends!! After that, we played a game and just sat around and gabbed until after midnight. Julie had me in tears laughing at one point.

What a great way to end my relaxing day!

A great big thank you to all my friends!!!!

My Birthday gift! ;)

My birthday is this coming Tuesday and lookie what I'm getting....




It's a 2008 Honda Civic EX-L.

White with tan leather (ohhhh)

Moonroof (ahhhh)

Isn't it purty??

I can see my girlfriends reading this right now thinking OMG! She's so spoiled! Yeah I see you Julie and Jen!

But fear not, this car is not really my gift...it's dh's new car for getting back and forth to work and I'll be driving it only at night or if I'm going somewhere by myself. You won't see me arguing though. I LOVE cars with moonroofs. I miss my moonroof. And I love the new car smell. Mmmm. I can't wait to see the car in person. It's brand spanking new but had some scratches on the bumper so they are fixing those first.

So what will I really get for my birthday this year..... stay tuned!

Today's fun!

Our playgroup had their first Mom's Enrichment playdate today. Basically, we decided to start doing a playdate once a month that was mom oriented and today we had 2 CPST(child passenger safety technicians) come over to my house. Both were from the Sheriff's office. We had a great turnout and a lot of info was shared, not only about car seat safety but also about other stuff like predators/sex offenders and fingerprinting. I think everyone took something away from today's meeting.

The best part for me was the fact that at least 3 of our neighbors/friends were worried about the cop cars outside! My next door neighbors (in their 80s) came over to see if I was alright. Bless her, she was really, really worried about me. The neighbor behind us called dh and I guess the neighbor's relative (also a friend of ours) had driven by and also called dh to make sure everything was okay. For a split second, dh forgot about our meeting too and nearly freaked. He quickly recovered though. :) I'm glad there are people looking out for us though!

Oh My!!!

Do you see that ticker over there??


Yeah, over there <---- and down some.


Do you see what it says?!


30 days left....I have 30 days left....OMG while I want to meet her so much, I'm NOT ready!!!

I'm Naked

Okay, not me, that wouldn't be a very pretty picture (unless you count pretty scary!).

Anyone else have a 2yr old that thinks it's absolutely hilarious to get "naked" and pronounce it to the world? Thankfully we live in a warm state. He doesn't get all the way naked, usually just his shirt and/or shorts but it's funny to him none the less. He also talks about his feet being naked if he's taken his shoes off or his belly button is naked when he lifts his shirt. Too cute. I wish I could bottle some of that cuteness. Just now, he ran away from me after asking me to help him put his shorts back on. When I asked him to come here, he said his "toes don't work". Where does he get this stuff?

Lunar Eclipse

Last night was the last total lunar eclipse until something like 2010 which is only 2 years away. Not like it's the last one in the next 100 years. It was still a pretty cool sight to see. The weather was mild last night and not buggy so it was nice. Dh and I set up the tripod and got out our long range lense to try and capture a few pics. You'll see some progression in our pics as we switched from Auto to Manual for the first time ever. Yes, I really need to take some kind of camera class! Here are just a few of our many pictures:
Around 9:15ish

Hmmm

I've been visualizing a certain day in March to have my baby girl. Well after talking about the lunar eclipse tonight with dh and knowing that more labors start on full moons, I decided to look up March's full moon schedule. It looks like the date I chose just so happens to be a full moon. We'll see if the moon helps me out or not!

Photo Contest

Our playgroup has started doing a monthly photo contest. There's no big prize. You get a tiara and the winning photo is put up on the homepage for the month. This month's theme was Heart. I will admit, my photo was not all my idea. I did take the inspiration from another photo I saw and made it my own creation. I'm happy with the photo though for the most part. Here's my submission:

No more backwash!

I've discovered a simple little white lie that works so far every time. Ds always wants to drink what I'm having but he always backwashes food into it. Yuck! So after tasting my chai tea and not liking it I've discovered anything I don't want him to ask for, just tell him it's tea! He says "eww yuck" and I get my drink all to myself. Yea! (Go ahead and flame away if you must)

Funniest thing I've read all day...

"My hoo-ha is hiccuping!" Taken from the March '08 birthboard. I so know what she's talking about too which is what makes it all the better. Baby is hiccuping and baby is head down thus it feels like your hoo-ha is hiccuping!

Top 10 most ridiculous baby products

Top 10
Would anyone actually buy a pair of fake hands? Or a fur diaper changing pad? I'll admit, I never thought about the stroller issue. I've seen a lot of people recommend that particular stroller and love it (Phil & Ted E3). It doesn't look so bad on their site and if they kids are properly strapped in, I'm not sure where the problem would lie. Now after having 2 boys, I can say that the PeePee TeePee wouldn't work. It would however shoot across the room along with the pee!

ETA: After visiting the BH board today, I found some more! Go check out this blog and this Craigslist ad!

It's official

I'm a whale. I gained 3lbs over the past week! I've put on over 40lbs this pregnancy which I think is the most ever out of all three kids. I still have a month left! Just staple my mouth shut now. Is it coincidence that I posted the top 20 worst foods and that my pants don't fit anymore all in one day? Think about it....

I did have a midwife appt today and for the first time ever there was a laboring mom there! I can't remember ever seeing (well hearing as I never actually saw her) a laboring mom in all the appts I've been to. I heard her moaning though and all I could think was "poor thing...I've been there". I hope by now she's holding her baby. I did get to see MaryAnn(mw) and Amanda(asst) in action though. They really do take care of you and are with you always. They were calling in the other assistant too before I left. I guess Mom was close to delivery.

As for my appt, I had a finger prick for iron and that came back fine. Bella's heart rate was great and Kim (student midwife) was able to tickle her feet and get her heart rate to speed up which I guess means she's responding. I don't know what the purpose was to that. I also had the Group B strep test which wasn't so bad. I'll get those results next week. If I'm positive, I'll have to have IV antibiotics for a short time during labor. Lovely.

I paid for my waterbirth tub. There are 3 other girls due around the same time who already paid too. It's first come, first serve when it comes to the tub so if two of us are laboring together and she paid first, she gets the tub. Guess I should have done that class sooner! Apparently they've never had that happen but I'm so special that if it's gonna happen, it will happen to me. Haha! I'm really looking forward to that tub too. Keep your fingers crossed!

Maternity vent

I need to get thru the next month with exactly 3 pairs of pants. Yes, just 3. Seven days a week, three pairs of pants...you do the math!

All of my shorts are now way too tight for this humongo belly. I can get them on but they roll right under my belly and then my shirts don't cover my bump. I don't want to go buy more clothes just for the next 30+ days either. Why is it the clothes all fit for 8 months and now they don't? Too many Starbucks chai frapps? Maybe I need to invest in some yoga type pants. Does Target carry those? I just need something to get me through the next month or two until she's out and those pregnancy pounds are gone!

Top 20 Worst Foods!

From MSNBC/Today Show Wow....just wow....

20: Worst fast-food chicken meal
Chicken Selects Premium Breast Strips from McDonald's (5 pieces) with creamy ranch sauce
830 calories
55 grams (g) fat (4.5 g trans fat)
48 g carbohydrates
The only thing "premium" about these strips is the caloric price you pay. Add a large fries and regular soda and this seemingly innocuous chicken meal tops out at 1,710 calories.

19: Worst drink
Jamba Juice Chocolate Moo'd Power Smoothie (30 fl oz)
900 calories 10 g fat
183 g carbs (166 g sugar)
Jamba Juice calls it a smoothie; we call it a milk shake. In fact, this beverage contains as much sugar as 2 pints of Ben & Jerry's butter pecan ice cream.

18: Worst supermarket meal
Pepperidge Farm Roasted Chicken Pot Pie (whole pie)
1,020 calories 64 g fat
86 g carbs
The label may say this pie serves two, but who ever divided a small pot pie in half? The sad truth is, once you crack the crust, there will be no stopping -- which makes this 300 calories worse than anything else you'll find in the freezer case. (I used to eat 2 of these at a time!)

17: Worst 'healthy' burger
Ruby Tuesday Bella Turkey Burger
1,145 calories 71 g fat
56 g carbs
We chose this burger for more than its calorie payload: Its name implies that it's healthy. (Have you ever see the stats on their veggie burger? It's ridiculous!)

16: Worst Mexican entree
Chipotle Mexican Grill Chicken Burrito
1,179 calories 47 g fat
125 g carbs
2,656 milligrams (mg) sodium
Despite a reputation for using healthy, fresh ingredients, Chipotle's menu is limited to king-size burritos, overstuffed tacos, and gigantic salads -- all of which lead to a humongous waistline.

15: Worst kids' meal
Macaroni Grill Double Macaroni 'n' Cheese
1,210 calories 62 g fat
3,450 mg sodium
It's like feeding your kid 1 1/2 boxes of Kraft mac 'n' cheese. (Logan loves mac & chs when we go out. Time to start ordering something healthier!)

14: Worst sandwich
Quiznos Classic Italian (large)
1,528 calories 92 g fat
4,604 mg sodium 110 g carbs
A large homemade sandwich would more likely provide about 500 calories.

13: Worst salad
On the Border Grande Taco Salad with Taco Beef
1,450 calories 102 g fat
78 g carbs 2,410 mg sodium
This isn't an anomaly: Five different On the Border salads on the menu contain more than 1,100 calories each.

12: Worst burger
Carl's Jr. Double Six Dollar Burger
1,520 calories
111 g fat
Carl's Jr. brags that it's home to this enormous sandwich, but the restaurant chain also provides convenient nutrition info on its Web site -- so ignorance is no excuse for eating it.

11: Worst steak
Lonestar 20 oz T-bone
1,540 calories
124 g fat
Add a baked potato and Lonestar's Signature Lettuce Wedge, and this is a 2,700-calorie blowout.

10: Worst breakfast
Bob Evans Caramel Banana Pecan Cream Stacked and Stuffed Hotcakes
1,540 calories
77 g fat (9 g trans fat)
198 g carbs (109 g sugar)
Five Egg McMuffins yield the same caloric cost as this stack of sugar-stuffed flapjacks, which is truly a heavy breakfast, weighing in at a hefty pound and a half.

9: Worst dessert
Chili's Chocolate Chip Paradise Pie with Vanilla Ice Cream
1,600 calories
78 g fat
215 g carbs
Would you eat a Big Mac for dessert? How about three? That's the calorie equivalent of this decadent dish. Clearly, Chili's customers get their money's worth.

8: Worst Chinese entree
P.F. Chang's Pork Lo Mein
1,820 calories
127 g fat
95 g carbs
The fat content in this dish alone provides more than 1,100 calories. And you'd have to eat almost five servings of pasta to match the number of carbohydrates it contains. Now, do you really need five servings of pasta?

7: Worst chicken entree
Chili's Honey Chipotle Crispers with Chipotle Sauce
2,040 calories
99 g fat
240 g carbs
"Crispers" refers to an extra-thick layer of bread crumbs that soaks up oil and adds unnecessary calories and carbs to these glorified chicken strips.

6: Worst fish entree
On the Border Dos XX Fish Tacos with Rice and Beans
2,100 calories
130 g fat
169 g carbs 4,750 mg sodium
Perhaps the most misleadingly named dish in America: A dozen crunchy tacos from Taco Bell will saddle you with fewer calories.

5: Worst pizza
Uno Chicago Grill Chicago Classic Deep Dish Pizza
2,310 calories
162 g fat
123 g carbs
4,470 mg sodium
Downing this "personal" pizza is equivalent to eating 18 slices of Domino's Crunchy Thin Crust cheese pizza. (holy crap!)

4: Worst pasta
Macaroni Grill Spaghetti and Meatballs with Meat Sauce
2,430 calories
128 g fat
207 g carbs
5,290 mg sodium
This meal satisfies your calorie requirements for an entire day.

3: Worst nachos
On the Border Stacked Border Nachos
2,740 calories
166 g fat
191 g carbs
5,280 mg sodium

2: Worst starter
Chili's Awesome Blossom
2,710 calories
203 g fat
194 g carbs
6,360 mg sodium

1: The worst food in America
Outback Steakhouse Aussie Cheese Fries with Ranch Dressing
2,900 calories
182 g fat
240 g carbs
Even if you split these "starters" with three friends, you'll have downed a dinner's worth of calories before your entrée arrives. (They are OH SO GOOD though! I used to get a mini version when I went to the hockey games Mmmm)