Okay so a new week has begun and my little angel is still enjoying his bachelor pad in my belly. I have about ten days left until my due date and my patience has turned into neurotic madness.
The last couple of weeks I have had people ask me how far overdue I am or gawk in amazement when they see my massive belly. I am getting drive-by phone calls that last a few seconds from people, it's all " How are you?? Any contractions?? Did your water break?? No okay bye. Take care"
Honestly if I were in labour, which I pray for every night and day, do you think I would be home waiting for people to call me?! What if I said yes??? Oh I'm so happy you called, yes I am in labour, what can I do for you?? I have become a birthing center. The only thing that matters is if I am in labour. I remember when phone calls were like "Hi how are you? Do you want to go for coffee? Hey let's go shopping!" Nope I have not heard that in a long time.
Not only am I a birthing center, I am a hot potato. It's not just drive-by phone calls, I have many people who are staying as far away from me as possible just in-case I go into labour while they are around me. Thanks a bunch y'all. Although I have to say T.J is polar opposite, my brother came over the other night and bought a camcorder before his visit just hoping that he could document our trip to the hospital. Poor guy ended up making a commentary film about how he feels we would act in the event of labour.
So now that everyone is driving me crazy with their anxious energy, as if they've carried this guy for nine months, I have decided to calm down. My son seems to be like his mother, last minute, deadline oriented. I have to accept that he will come when he feels that he is ready. I guess I have to learn to accept that now before pushing him into sports anyway. When he decides to arrive I will be just as happy tomorrow as I would have been yesterday.
I'm going to look at these next few days as if he knows how much shopping I have left to do and he just wants to make sure I can wrap my gifts without interference. (My son is so thoughtful!!)
Monday, November 29, 2010
Thursday, November 25, 2010
Happy Thanksgiving
Well the family is on alert. I went to the doctor's office today and I am 2 centimeters dilated. I know that means next to nothing but the doctor has a feeling that I will not make it to next week. (I hope she's right!) I am so excited and I am looking forward to holding my little buddy soon. Justin is watching me like I am the lotto max numbers about to drop.
I am so happy that things have worked out the way they have. I could not have picked a better husband and partner. Anyone who has met Justin knows he's a great guy, I have been in his arms for nine years and I can't wait to watch him become a daddy. Although these past nine months have been trying at times, I have always had my rock to lean on. Not many men want to be with their wives during their crazy emotional moments, but he has always been there to play with my hair and comfort me. Having a baby is the greatest gift from God and it is also the greatest gift we can mutually share.
Today is Thanksgiving and Lord knows I am thankful for many things, most of all is my family and friends. I know that if something were to happen to me, my husband and child will be taken care of by wonderful people. Well as promised I will keep you all posted on little Gus' progress. Hopefully I will have a Thanksgiving baby...that translates to a Grey Cup baby in Canadian lingo. (It's our Superbowl this weekend!)
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Two Weeks and Two Days Left
I have been going crazy wondering when I will finally get to meet my precious little boy. It's funny because when I was a little girl, I was searching the house for Christmas presents around this time of year. However, no matter how many times I say a prayer or run around the house, this gift has a mind of his own.
I am so anxious I can hardly think straight. Every morning I wake up wondering if my Christmas angel will arrive today. Justin and I have everything ready, my bags are in the car, the baby has a closet and dresser full of clothes. Everything is washed and waiting. The baby monitor works and is on just incase we forget to turn it on when he arrives. The bassinet is beside our bed, the diaper bag is packed, the thank you notes are 90% done.
I know I should try to focus on other things like finishing my Christmas shopping and freezing homemade dinners, but I have a huge belly in my way. This weekend is Thanksgiving in the US, I remember being at work last year feeling so sad that I was away from my American family. Talking on the phone to the whole table wasn't enough, I promised myself I would go down this year for the holiday. Well turns out I will be having turkey tacos chez moi this year. I have a lot to be thankful for it really doesn't matter where I celebrate.
When you take time to look back at where your life has taken you, it is almost too amazing to comprehend. I am going to be a mother...I would have never placed a bet on that when I was a teenager. I know God has a plan for everyone and no matter how hard you try to plan out your own life, you just have to rely on the fact that someone somewhere is watching out for you. When I think back on my hopes and prayers when I was an adolescent it makes me laugh more than anything. Things like "Dear God please have so-and-so ask me out....please let me marry Prince William....please tell my mom to let me get a turtle tattoo...etc" Moments like that reminds me of one of my favorite Garth Brooks songs: "Unanswered Prayers" the refrain was "sometimes I thank God for unanswered prayers, you never know when you're talking to the man upstairs. Just because he doesn't answer doesn't mean he don't care..." Well I am so thankful that many of these prayers did not get answered: so-and-so turned out to be gay, Prince William has proven he knows how to keep a girl hanging and any tattoo would be an indescribable blob on this belly.
Last song reference for today. One of my favorite Canadian Country bands is a husband and wife duo, The Wilsons. They have three kids and I loved watching their reality show about how they attempt to balance their career and family life. One of the songs that they wrote was for their little girl that they had adopted, at the time they wrote the song they did not know if the baby would be a boy or girl. I urge you to look up the song with kleenex but here are some of the lyrics to marinate on. The song is titled "Mine All Mine"
I think every expectant mother, father and family feels this way. I can't wait to hold my little Gus.
I am so anxious I can hardly think straight. Every morning I wake up wondering if my Christmas angel will arrive today. Justin and I have everything ready, my bags are in the car, the baby has a closet and dresser full of clothes. Everything is washed and waiting. The baby monitor works and is on just incase we forget to turn it on when he arrives. The bassinet is beside our bed, the diaper bag is packed, the thank you notes are 90% done.
I know I should try to focus on other things like finishing my Christmas shopping and freezing homemade dinners, but I have a huge belly in my way. This weekend is Thanksgiving in the US, I remember being at work last year feeling so sad that I was away from my American family. Talking on the phone to the whole table wasn't enough, I promised myself I would go down this year for the holiday. Well turns out I will be having turkey tacos chez moi this year. I have a lot to be thankful for it really doesn't matter where I celebrate.
When you take time to look back at where your life has taken you, it is almost too amazing to comprehend. I am going to be a mother...I would have never placed a bet on that when I was a teenager. I know God has a plan for everyone and no matter how hard you try to plan out your own life, you just have to rely on the fact that someone somewhere is watching out for you. When I think back on my hopes and prayers when I was an adolescent it makes me laugh more than anything. Things like "Dear God please have so-and-so ask me out....please let me marry Prince William....please tell my mom to let me get a turtle tattoo...etc" Moments like that reminds me of one of my favorite Garth Brooks songs: "Unanswered Prayers" the refrain was "sometimes I thank God for unanswered prayers, you never know when you're talking to the man upstairs. Just because he doesn't answer doesn't mean he don't care..." Well I am so thankful that many of these prayers did not get answered: so-and-so turned out to be gay, Prince William has proven he knows how to keep a girl hanging and any tattoo would be an indescribable blob on this belly.
Last song reference for today. One of my favorite Canadian Country bands is a husband and wife duo, The Wilsons. They have three kids and I loved watching their reality show about how they attempt to balance their career and family life. One of the songs that they wrote was for their little girl that they had adopted, at the time they wrote the song they did not know if the baby would be a boy or girl. I urge you to look up the song with kleenex but here are some of the lyrics to marinate on. The song is titled "Mine All Mine"
WE HAVEN’T MET, BUT I KNOW YOU’RE OUT THERE
WAITING FOR ME
AND SOMEDAY SOMEWHERE I’LL SEE YOUR SWEET FACE
I’M NOT GIVING UP, I KNOW IT’LL HAPPEN WHEN IT’S MEANT TO BE
AND ALL I'VE GOTTA DO IS HAVE SOME FAITH
WAITING FOR ME
AND SOMEDAY SOMEWHERE I’LL SEE YOUR SWEET FACE
I’M NOT GIVING UP, I KNOW IT’LL HAPPEN WHEN IT’S MEANT TO BE
AND ALL I'VE GOTTA DO IS HAVE SOME FAITH
CHORUS:
- ‘CAUSE WHEN YOU’RE MINE ALL MINE I’LL HOLD YOU BABY I WON’T EVER LET YOU GO WHEN THE LONG HARD SEARCH IS OVER BABY I WILL LOVE YOU HEART AND SOUL TIL THE END OF TIME WHEN YOU’RE MINE ALL MINE
I’LL BE YOUR STRENGTH, I’LL BE YOUR SHELTER
I’LL KEEP YOU SAFE
YOU’LL LIGHT UP MY WHOLE LIFE WITH JUST YOUR SMILE
AND YOU’LL MAKE ME MELT, YOU’LL MAKE THE WORLD STOP
WHEN YOU SAY MY NAME
AND YOU’LL MAKE EVERY TEAR I CRIED WORTHWHILE
I’LL KEEP YOU SAFE
YOU’LL LIGHT UP MY WHOLE LIFE WITH JUST YOUR SMILE
AND YOU’LL MAKE ME MELT, YOU’LL MAKE THE WORLD STOP
WHEN YOU SAY MY NAME
AND YOU’LL MAKE EVERY TEAR I CRIED WORTHWHILE
I think every expectant mother, father and family feels this way. I can't wait to hold my little Gus.
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Appreciating life's gifts
Children are such a wonderful gift and being a part of a child's life is a blessing in itself. I am fortunate to have been involved with many kids and teens through out my life. Playing with kids has been my way of relaxing for most of my adult life. The smiles, the giggles and the joy that I get to feel as these angels share moments of their lives with me has been my most treasured life experiences.
On our way home this afternoon, Justin and I were listening to a talk show on the radio. The discussion was about family dinner and how much it means to everyone involved. They were commenting on the bonding experience you share as you interact with your children around the dinner table. As simple as this concept maybe to some it was clear through the callers reactions that sit-down dinners are on the endangered species list. This sparked a discussion between Justin and I about how we would like to raise our family.
The ideas were flowing and the host on the show mentioned the issue of letting kids invite friends to the table. I, for one, loved having my friends break bread with my family. Many of them became like family and started to call my mom, mom instead of Ms. Harris or Wendy. That was a tradition passed down by my maternal grandmother, Nanny, who always had a spot for the neighborhood at her table. No joke I still have people coming up to me telling me stories of eating at my Nanny's house in the hallway because the priests, teachers and most of the students were all at her house for lunch and dinner. (She lived across the street from my mother's school and had an open door policy when meal time came around)
Justin had a different experience, he was that little boy going over to his friend's house for dinner. He wanted to call the radio show to say that for every family who opens the door to invite someone for supper, they are shaping that child in very powerful and positive way. He has always spoke of his neighbour's generosity with such love and appreciation, he would not be the same person he is today without being welcomed into such a loving home. This is what we want for our kids. A place where they can invite their friends to be a part of our family traditions. For Justin it's his way of paying forward his amazing experience.
On our way home this afternoon, Justin and I were listening to a talk show on the radio. The discussion was about family dinner and how much it means to everyone involved. They were commenting on the bonding experience you share as you interact with your children around the dinner table. As simple as this concept maybe to some it was clear through the callers reactions that sit-down dinners are on the endangered species list. This sparked a discussion between Justin and I about how we would like to raise our family.
The ideas were flowing and the host on the show mentioned the issue of letting kids invite friends to the table. I, for one, loved having my friends break bread with my family. Many of them became like family and started to call my mom, mom instead of Ms. Harris or Wendy. That was a tradition passed down by my maternal grandmother, Nanny, who always had a spot for the neighborhood at her table. No joke I still have people coming up to me telling me stories of eating at my Nanny's house in the hallway because the priests, teachers and most of the students were all at her house for lunch and dinner. (She lived across the street from my mother's school and had an open door policy when meal time came around)
Justin had a different experience, he was that little boy going over to his friend's house for dinner. He wanted to call the radio show to say that for every family who opens the door to invite someone for supper, they are shaping that child in very powerful and positive way. He has always spoke of his neighbour's generosity with such love and appreciation, he would not be the same person he is today without being welcomed into such a loving home. This is what we want for our kids. A place where they can invite their friends to be a part of our family traditions. For Justin it's his way of paying forward his amazing experience.
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
It takes a village to raise a child...
This past weekend I had another beautiful baby shower filled with amazing people. The love that awaits my little munchkin is mind blowing. I was raised with many loving people in my life and it is a tradition and a gift that I want to pass on to my son. One of my favorite sayings is that "it takes a village to raise a child". I have been blessed to have had many smart, caring and generous people influence my life. I can only imagine the wonderful world of beautiful souls that A.J will soon be encountering.
One of the things that Justin and I continually talk about is our faith. We tend to lean more to the spiritual path, than that of a religious perspective. We believe in a higher power and that there is a plan for everyone. Now that we are going to be responsible for a little soul, we have decided to clarify our values and beliefs. Until we come across a defined belief system to which we can identify and follow, we feel it is important to teach, love and equality above all things.
I was brought up knowing that everyone is equal, not one person is better than the next. I have learned not to give my life meaning by demeaning others. Justin and I really want our son to grow up knowing many religions and perspectives on life, and though he may not agree with them he must respect them. Respect for people's opinions and beliefs have been something that many of us have struggled with but for me it's because I sometimes change the word respect to accept and there is where my struggle lies. I just have to remind myself that respect does not mean to accept and then I can disarm my defense system.
Honesty is another thing that I value. I'm a stickler for staying true to my word. I want my son to treat the words that he expresses with thought and power. Obviously this will come later in life, but can you imagine if people stopped for a moment before they spoke to rehearse their thoughts and responses? Of course it would make a casual discourse last longer but it would be more productive and clearer to all parties involved.
There are so many thing we can't wait to teach him. There are so many things that he will have to learn for himself. I just can't wait to have my little buddy call me mommy. That will be one of many thrilling days awaiting us.
One of the things that Justin and I continually talk about is our faith. We tend to lean more to the spiritual path, than that of a religious perspective. We believe in a higher power and that there is a plan for everyone. Now that we are going to be responsible for a little soul, we have decided to clarify our values and beliefs. Until we come across a defined belief system to which we can identify and follow, we feel it is important to teach, love and equality above all things.
I was brought up knowing that everyone is equal, not one person is better than the next. I have learned not to give my life meaning by demeaning others. Justin and I really want our son to grow up knowing many religions and perspectives on life, and though he may not agree with them he must respect them. Respect for people's opinions and beliefs have been something that many of us have struggled with but for me it's because I sometimes change the word respect to accept and there is where my struggle lies. I just have to remind myself that respect does not mean to accept and then I can disarm my defense system.
Honesty is another thing that I value. I'm a stickler for staying true to my word. I want my son to treat the words that he expresses with thought and power. Obviously this will come later in life, but can you imagine if people stopped for a moment before they spoke to rehearse their thoughts and responses? Of course it would make a casual discourse last longer but it would be more productive and clearer to all parties involved.
There are so many thing we can't wait to teach him. There are so many things that he will have to learn for himself. I just can't wait to have my little buddy call me mommy. That will be one of many thrilling days awaiting us.
Friday, November 12, 2010
What a gift
This morning Justin and I did a photo shoot to capture our last month as family of two. We had a blast dressing up and posing. The real treat was the 45 minutes of nothing to think about but each other and our soon-to-arrive, son. I realized today that I don't often look into Justin's eyes, I don't know why that is. Maybe it is because I have to have something to stand on to stare comfortably but it really is worth the effort. His loving eyes are one of many things I love about him. I can't wait for A.J to feel the love his daddy has for him through those sparkling hazel eyes.
Later today, I decided to open up some of the keepsake gifts that we had received for A.J's first moments. I figured I should start filling in the information that I can answer now because my hands maybe occupied when my little guy arrives. One of the books had a section where it asked:"When did you know you were expecting?... What was Mommy's reaction?... What was Daddy's reaction?". At first I thought, "Geez it's too bad I can't insert the link to my blog!!" But re-telling our story honestly gives me goosebumps.
I'm now in my ninth month and I still can't believe we are having a baby. This experience has been the greatest joy for both Justin and I. Who would have thought that nine years ago those two wild camp counselors, who had no idea what they wanted out of life, would end up happily married with their dream jobs, expecting life's most amazing miracle.
Christmas is approaching and the list of things to do grows. However, this year Justin and I have the best gift on it's way. What more can we ask for?! My mother had said to me the other day "You know, it (Christmas) won't be fun if you have nothing to unwrap." My response was: "Are you kidding me?! I will be unwrapping diapers, that's the best gift ever!"
Later today, I decided to open up some of the keepsake gifts that we had received for A.J's first moments. I figured I should start filling in the information that I can answer now because my hands maybe occupied when my little guy arrives. One of the books had a section where it asked:"When did you know you were expecting?... What was Mommy's reaction?... What was Daddy's reaction?". At first I thought, "Geez it's too bad I can't insert the link to my blog!!" But re-telling our story honestly gives me goosebumps.
I'm now in my ninth month and I still can't believe we are having a baby. This experience has been the greatest joy for both Justin and I. Who would have thought that nine years ago those two wild camp counselors, who had no idea what they wanted out of life, would end up happily married with their dream jobs, expecting life's most amazing miracle.
Christmas is approaching and the list of things to do grows. However, this year Justin and I have the best gift on it's way. What more can we ask for?! My mother had said to me the other day "You know, it (Christmas) won't be fun if you have nothing to unwrap." My response was: "Are you kidding me?! I will be unwrapping diapers, that's the best gift ever!"
Thursday, November 11, 2010
A Day to Remeber
Happy Remembrance Day/ Veteran's Day. This day means a lot to me for so many reasons. I am a proud daughter, granddaughter and great-granddaughter of War Vets. My father served in the American Military during the Vietnam War, my maternal grandfather was a gunner for Canada in the Second World War and his father served in the First World War.
I can not imagine saying goodbye to my son if he were to serve in the Armed Forces. My maternal grandfather, Angus (Popa), was one of six sons in his family who headed off to serve in the Second World War. He and his five brothers all went overseas and by the grace of God, they all made it back home safely. How his mother coped, is beyond me. Knowing that six of her nine children were in a foreign land fighting for the freedom of people of whom they had never met. My grandfather even lied about his age so that he could join his older brothers. What kind of strength did people have back then?! Before Skype, email, even before every home had a phone. How could a mother say goodbye??? My poor son will have a crazy over-protective nutcase for a mother. If he wants to sign-up for the military, then he'll have to get used to his mother serving with him. (more like a human shield)
I am so proud of our veterans and thankful for their sacrifices. Where would we be without them? My grandfather, Angus, is such an amazing man. He has been a great role model and he has impacted my life in many ways. I am so thankful to have such an amazing man live down the road from me and at the age of 88 years young, he always has time for me. He is the biggest cheerleader for my son, after all he is named after him. A.J will be the first great-grandchild and he is already spoiled, almost as much as me, the only granddaughter :) I can't wait to bring A.J over to Popa's house for coffee and cards. My grandfather is hoping to show the baby off to all of the ladies in his building. What a guy!! I could not have wished for a better great-grandfather for my son. He will definitely know his family tree and how lucky he is to have ancestors who fought for his freedoms.
I have had a Billy Ray Cyrus song stuck in my head all day; it was a slogan that actually was on my grandfather's license plate for a while. It was : All gave some, some gave all... It really hits at the heart strings. I don't support war but I do support our troops and wish them a safe return.
I can not imagine saying goodbye to my son if he were to serve in the Armed Forces. My maternal grandfather, Angus (Popa), was one of six sons in his family who headed off to serve in the Second World War. He and his five brothers all went overseas and by the grace of God, they all made it back home safely. How his mother coped, is beyond me. Knowing that six of her nine children were in a foreign land fighting for the freedom of people of whom they had never met. My grandfather even lied about his age so that he could join his older brothers. What kind of strength did people have back then?! Before Skype, email, even before every home had a phone. How could a mother say goodbye??? My poor son will have a crazy over-protective nutcase for a mother. If he wants to sign-up for the military, then he'll have to get used to his mother serving with him. (more like a human shield)
I am so proud of our veterans and thankful for their sacrifices. Where would we be without them? My grandfather, Angus, is such an amazing man. He has been a great role model and he has impacted my life in many ways. I am so thankful to have such an amazing man live down the road from me and at the age of 88 years young, he always has time for me. He is the biggest cheerleader for my son, after all he is named after him. A.J will be the first great-grandchild and he is already spoiled, almost as much as me, the only granddaughter :) I can't wait to bring A.J over to Popa's house for coffee and cards. My grandfather is hoping to show the baby off to all of the ladies in his building. What a guy!! I could not have wished for a better great-grandfather for my son. He will definitely know his family tree and how lucky he is to have ancestors who fought for his freedoms.
I have had a Billy Ray Cyrus song stuck in my head all day; it was a slogan that actually was on my grandfather's license plate for a while. It was : All gave some, some gave all... It really hits at the heart strings. I don't support war but I do support our troops and wish them a safe return.
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
The faster I go, the slower I am...
So yesterday was a crazy nesting day. Today will be a little more relaxed. I'm still dusting, vacuuming and mopping but I did tackled a big part of the condo last night. This afternoon is the first of day of my guests stopping bye. It's the ever so awesome brother of mine. I am so fortunate to have a big brother like T.J. He's been my support and best friend since birth. He also was my Maid of Honor, well Man of Honor.
T.J and Justin are close which makes my life a lot easier, they are true brothers. It's so awesome to see them interact and hangout. They always help each other out, and I am sure most of our home projects would still be in boxes if it weren't for T.J helping Justin put everything together and installing them.
The baby is going to have a great uncle, I couldn't ask for anything more. You can see T's excitement and I am sure it will be awhile before Uncle T.J leaves the baby. It's a good thing we bought a new sofa-bed with lots of sheets for our overnight visitors.
I am almost done catching up with my to-do list. The list seems to get longer, but I'm not going to exhaust myself. Hopefully I will get to the point where I can sit down and not add to my list. However until then, I'm grabbing the trusty Swifter and skipping around my home like a dust fairy...humor is everything in life.
T.J and Justin are close which makes my life a lot easier, they are true brothers. It's so awesome to see them interact and hangout. They always help each other out, and I am sure most of our home projects would still be in boxes if it weren't for T.J helping Justin put everything together and installing them.
The baby is going to have a great uncle, I couldn't ask for anything more. You can see T's excitement and I am sure it will be awhile before Uncle T.J leaves the baby. It's a good thing we bought a new sofa-bed with lots of sheets for our overnight visitors.
I am almost done catching up with my to-do list. The list seems to get longer, but I'm not going to exhaust myself. Hopefully I will get to the point where I can sit down and not add to my list. However until then, I'm grabbing the trusty Swifter and skipping around my home like a dust fairy...humor is everything in life.
Monday, November 8, 2010
Thankful
I just love weekends. I have been trying to organize my son's room ever since we moved into our home in July. It seems like an eternity has passed but thanks to my mother yesterday, the nursery is 95% done. Thank God for mothers.
The day before my mother's visit, my cousin had dropped of a large Rubbermaid bin full of clothes for my little boy. These clothes were handed down by a friend of hers to us. I am still in awe of how lucky we are to be receiving such wonderful gifts from people. The sizes ranged from newborn to 24 months. The shoes are too adorable and there was a full tuxedo among the treasures.
I am so excited to play dress-up with my little guy. It's so crazy to look at his room, he has got so much waiting for him. I keep trying to imagine what he will look like. Will he have a natural tan?? Will he have Justin's eyes?? We know he has my nose...finally someone in my family with my nose :)
I am going to miss the rib kicks and the late night flips, but I can't wait to hold him. Tonight I finally put in my Prenatal Yoga DVD. I really should have started the yoga sooner. Oh well better late than never. I had a really peaceful day and a relaxing night. Tomorrow the nesting-crazy-lady will be back with the Windex, Vim and scrub brush in hand. I have a few visitors stopping by through out the week so I need to get back to my home-maker crazy-self. Until tomorrow comes, I will be chilling out for the rest of tonight with my Buddha belly.
The day before my mother's visit, my cousin had dropped of a large Rubbermaid bin full of clothes for my little boy. These clothes were handed down by a friend of hers to us. I am still in awe of how lucky we are to be receiving such wonderful gifts from people. The sizes ranged from newborn to 24 months. The shoes are too adorable and there was a full tuxedo among the treasures.
I am so excited to play dress-up with my little guy. It's so crazy to look at his room, he has got so much waiting for him. I keep trying to imagine what he will look like. Will he have a natural tan?? Will he have Justin's eyes?? We know he has my nose...finally someone in my family with my nose :)
I am going to miss the rib kicks and the late night flips, but I can't wait to hold him. Tonight I finally put in my Prenatal Yoga DVD. I really should have started the yoga sooner. Oh well better late than never. I had a really peaceful day and a relaxing night. Tomorrow the nesting-crazy-lady will be back with the Windex, Vim and scrub brush in hand. I have a few visitors stopping by through out the week so I need to get back to my home-maker crazy-self. Until tomorrow comes, I will be chilling out for the rest of tonight with my Buddha belly.
Saturday, November 6, 2010
Saturday Morning Pancakes
One of my favorite traditions that my husband and I have been enjoying for years, are Saturday Morning Pancakes. It usually means whatever time we wake up and roll out of bed, we eventually make it to the kitchen to make pancakes. It's something I know we can carry on with children however, the quiet, sleeping-in aspects will be missing for many years to come.
This morning my little bundle of joy thought I should wake up at 3:00am and wouldn't let me lie down until sometime after 4:00am. I can't wait to have him in my arms rather than in my belly! My husband, Justin thought it was cute that he could feel A.J's hiccups at 8:00 this morning. The first few times I did think that the prenatal hiccups were cute, however now hiccups equal more trips to the washroom.
Oh boy the to-do list is a long one this weekend. I better start writing it out or else my brain disease known as baby brain, may take over and I will be lost! I think I'll have one more pancake as I make my list, I can multitask...I think!?
This morning my little bundle of joy thought I should wake up at 3:00am and wouldn't let me lie down until sometime after 4:00am. I can't wait to have him in my arms rather than in my belly! My husband, Justin thought it was cute that he could feel A.J's hiccups at 8:00 this morning. The first few times I did think that the prenatal hiccups were cute, however now hiccups equal more trips to the washroom.
Oh boy the to-do list is a long one this weekend. I better start writing it out or else my brain disease known as baby brain, may take over and I will be lost! I think I'll have one more pancake as I make my list, I can multitask...I think!?
Friday, November 5, 2010
Looking Back
As I was going through the mountain of baby clothes and baby gear, I came across my journal that I had from the day we decided to start a family. It's funny to look at because I remember having it on my night stand and writing loving thoughts of hopes and dreams (in the beginning!).
Well actually, we decided we wanted to try to start a family last August (2009). I had always thought that becoming pregnant might be hard for me maybe even impossible, but it was something worth trying. Justin and I tend to worry about everything so we wanted to make sure we had a bit of solid foundation before we jumped into the world of babies.
Anyway back to this journal, you can see the frustration increase as the months passed. I am sure the stock market had a large spike because of all of the home pregnancy tests I had bought during this time. The journal starts with a message to our future offspring with a list of names that we had thought of. The second and third month you can see that I was trying to be positive, "well this is not our month but there is always next month...". Then as the fifth month came along there were no more messages, just dates of my menstrual cycle. Eventually the book was put in a drawer and ignored.
Seven months after our decision to try, it was time for my annual doctor's appointment. Justin came along with me so that we could discuss our lack of success with my doctor. Although I like my doctor, I was not happy that she told us to wait and see. Normally if it takes longer than a year then you can explore other options...A year?! Unfortunately patience is something I need to work on :) However unbeknownst to the three of us in the doctor's office, I was already a week into my pregnancy. Weeks passed and I was trying hard to keep a positive outlook, I know there are worse things in life. (Note from Justin : He really enjoyed the practice!...men)
April 16th 2010 was a day to remember. After two of my childhood friends just had their first little additions a few weeks before, I had noticed that my buddy, Mother Nature, hadn't arrived with her monthly reminder of my failed attempts. I also was convinced that I was sleep walking into the street and having trucks run over my chest as my breasts were so sore and I couldn't explain why. So as I was out shopping on that beautiful Friday afternoon, I really had to use the washroom but before I did that I thought I should run into the drugstore and pick up another pregnancy test. If I had to use a public washroom I might as well have something to look forward to after. So I did the test and put it in a ziploc bag in my purse and went to the card store. ( Of course I washed my hands people, I am a germ-aphob)
The first thing that caught my eye in the card store was a book called "My Pregnancy Journal", I froze. I quickly took deep breathe and opened my purse, there were two lines on the test, pregnant. I started to shake and I completely forgot who's birthday I needed a card for. All I could think of was I need to do another test but just in case this is true, I should get a card to tell Justin. I couldn't find a "hey honey we're pregnant card" so I chose a 'congrats on your success' card as this was the first day of his new promotion at work. Then I bought a small gray monkey as the other baby items were either pink or blue. As soon as I checked out of the store, I drove to my mother's house down the road drinking every water bottle I could find in the car, so when I got there I was going to take the second test. (Good thing I bought a two for one pregnancy test package!)
At my mother's house I rushed in to take the second test. It was positive, I went crazy! No one was home and I couldn't tell anyone before telling Justin. The anxiety was killing me so I left a message for my therapist on his machine, he had to keep it secret and I had to tell someone! When Justin met me at my mother's house, I had a camera hidden and on record. I got the whole thing on tape! The first words out of my dear husband's mouth were "baby? we're having a baby? Oh my God mortgage? What about my man room? no man room?!"
Now he's excited that his man room is for our little man. But it's so funny taking a look back into the past and seeing how much has changed. Now we look forward to meeting our son. I can't wait to tie my shoes all by myself again :)
Well actually, we decided we wanted to try to start a family last August (2009). I had always thought that becoming pregnant might be hard for me maybe even impossible, but it was something worth trying. Justin and I tend to worry about everything so we wanted to make sure we had a bit of solid foundation before we jumped into the world of babies.
Anyway back to this journal, you can see the frustration increase as the months passed. I am sure the stock market had a large spike because of all of the home pregnancy tests I had bought during this time. The journal starts with a message to our future offspring with a list of names that we had thought of. The second and third month you can see that I was trying to be positive, "well this is not our month but there is always next month...". Then as the fifth month came along there were no more messages, just dates of my menstrual cycle. Eventually the book was put in a drawer and ignored.
Seven months after our decision to try, it was time for my annual doctor's appointment. Justin came along with me so that we could discuss our lack of success with my doctor. Although I like my doctor, I was not happy that she told us to wait and see. Normally if it takes longer than a year then you can explore other options...A year?! Unfortunately patience is something I need to work on :) However unbeknownst to the three of us in the doctor's office, I was already a week into my pregnancy. Weeks passed and I was trying hard to keep a positive outlook, I know there are worse things in life. (Note from Justin : He really enjoyed the practice!...men)
April 16th 2010 was a day to remember. After two of my childhood friends just had their first little additions a few weeks before, I had noticed that my buddy, Mother Nature, hadn't arrived with her monthly reminder of my failed attempts. I also was convinced that I was sleep walking into the street and having trucks run over my chest as my breasts were so sore and I couldn't explain why. So as I was out shopping on that beautiful Friday afternoon, I really had to use the washroom but before I did that I thought I should run into the drugstore and pick up another pregnancy test. If I had to use a public washroom I might as well have something to look forward to after. So I did the test and put it in a ziploc bag in my purse and went to the card store. ( Of course I washed my hands people, I am a germ-aphob)
The first thing that caught my eye in the card store was a book called "My Pregnancy Journal", I froze. I quickly took deep breathe and opened my purse, there were two lines on the test, pregnant. I started to shake and I completely forgot who's birthday I needed a card for. All I could think of was I need to do another test but just in case this is true, I should get a card to tell Justin. I couldn't find a "hey honey we're pregnant card" so I chose a 'congrats on your success' card as this was the first day of his new promotion at work. Then I bought a small gray monkey as the other baby items were either pink or blue. As soon as I checked out of the store, I drove to my mother's house down the road drinking every water bottle I could find in the car, so when I got there I was going to take the second test. (Good thing I bought a two for one pregnancy test package!)
At my mother's house I rushed in to take the second test. It was positive, I went crazy! No one was home and I couldn't tell anyone before telling Justin. The anxiety was killing me so I left a message for my therapist on his machine, he had to keep it secret and I had to tell someone! When Justin met me at my mother's house, I had a camera hidden and on record. I got the whole thing on tape! The first words out of my dear husband's mouth were "baby? we're having a baby? Oh my God mortgage? What about my man room? no man room?!"
Now he's excited that his man room is for our little man. But it's so funny taking a look back into the past and seeing how much has changed. Now we look forward to meeting our son. I can't wait to tie my shoes all by myself again :)
Thursday, November 4, 2010
Getting Ready
I am currently 35 weeks into my pregnancy and ironically there are 35 days left until D-Day. I am so excited to meet my little buddy who has been kicking my ribs for the last few months. My husband Justin and I are taking turns guessing about what our son will look like. Who will he take after? Who's hair will he be cursed with... Today I am trying to get all of the laundry done so little Angus (A.J) will have some clean clothes to wear. I can't believe we're having a baby! Justin and I have been together for a bit over 9 years now and married for 4 great years. This is the biggest and most exciting step we have encountered in our relationship. I am off of work now (thank goodness) so all I have to focus on is mastering cookie recipes, preparing for the big day and lots of doctor visits. I am feeling pretty good right now, heavy, sore, slow and tired but it's all worth it. One thing I need to do is pop in my Prenatal Yoga DVD.
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