It's been a long time since a Happy Things post, and I've felt it coming on for a while. But today, I felt more like writing more about how certain happy things come out of stuff for which I'm grateful. Thus the odd post title. Things for which I'm grateful that also make me happy:
1. That Mom taught me how to make a cashier's job easier when at the store for scanning and packing.
2. In that vein, that Mom taught me the best way TO pack groceries considering many cashiers kinda suck at it, and I find myself rearranging constantly. (by the way, what is with some of them completely ignoring your reusable bags until you can pack them?)
3. A relationship in which both of us strive to remain understanding and connected.
4. The ability to enjoy life to the fullest despite the circumstances.
5. That though life has downs, there are also ups.
6. That my sister thinks much like I do and loves me.
7. That I had a family who reveled in the joy of little things... therefore teaching me how to do the same.
8. Living in a warm climate... even when it's blistering.
Friday, July 31, 2009
Adjustment
While I have adjusted to this pregnancy stuff far better than I had anticipated; there are the occasional twinges that could be leftovers from lovely IF, or could just be a normal pregnancy experience. A lot of what's good can be attributed to our relatively secure status and to my wonderful husband. As for the bad - well it's not even really bad per se. It's just that I am still very uncomfortable at times talking about my pregnancy with most other people in passing conversation. I have always been uncomfortable as the center of attention unless among my family or close friends, so I suppose that part is expected. But it's almost as if it's too private to discuss randomly, or that the feelings I have about it are so deep that trivial discussion is not even an option. I wish I could explain it better, but I myself don't understand it. Elements of it are similar to the naked dream. You know - the one where you're naked in public, but people keep trying to talk to you or ask you to do things as if nothing's wrong, and you just desperately want to get away or cover yourself up, yet they won't let you. Maybe that's it. Maybe it's just that my feelings about this are so vulnerable and new and intense. I have as much trouble talking about the depths of this as I do about the depths of my feelings for my husband. It either sounds too trivial or comes out trite. It's just that I've had 12 years to adjust to those feelings. And they weren't hampered by vestiges of loss and vulnerability... perhaps because I was too young and naive in the beginning to imagine that anything could ever go wrong.
In any case, I'm reminded of some things Jen told me before Elizabeth was born. She mentioned how there were people in which you found a haven, and those were the people who though they didn't push, you could more easily volunteer information to. I remember feeling very humble and confused as to why she could do that with me, but now I understand and return the feelings. I don't even know why exactly. Sometimes also, it's almost as if the people I'm not very close to do not have the right to that very private (at least to me) aspect of my life unless I invite them. It's not like everything bothers me. Friendly inquiries about my health and excitement about the baby are heartwarming. It's just that much more than that, and I find myself squirming with discomfort. It doesn't make me angry either. It just feels weird. I find myself much like some of the women I admired most - still Barb - just Barb who is also pregnant.*
*Not that pregnancy is insignificant or less meaningful in any way.. just that I still have so many aspects of me that are important.
In any case, I'm reminded of some things Jen told me before Elizabeth was born. She mentioned how there were people in which you found a haven, and those were the people who though they didn't push, you could more easily volunteer information to. I remember feeling very humble and confused as to why she could do that with me, but now I understand and return the feelings. I don't even know why exactly. Sometimes also, it's almost as if the people I'm not very close to do not have the right to that very private (at least to me) aspect of my life unless I invite them. It's not like everything bothers me. Friendly inquiries about my health and excitement about the baby are heartwarming. It's just that much more than that, and I find myself squirming with discomfort. It doesn't make me angry either. It just feels weird. I find myself much like some of the women I admired most - still Barb - just Barb who is also pregnant.*
*Not that pregnancy is insignificant or less meaningful in any way.. just that I still have so many aspects of me that are important.
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Dancing Queen
I just have to say that Hub and I need to take dance lessons. I love art in all its forms, but dance is just so damn beautiful and interesting. I was watching So You Think You Can Dance Last Night, and I'm just blown away by how gorgeously Kayla dances. There's just something different about her to me from the others... a certain je ne sais quoi if you will. ;-) She had better not be voted off tonight. I thought Brandon was lovely too. He isn't my favorite personally, but his dancing was gorgeous. And his solo?? Perfection.
Updates and Frustrations
Phew. Our house projects along with the upcoming event have turned life into a tornado interspersed with such fatigue that I lose consciousness for a while. I didn't even do a 16 or 17 week photo yet! Things are coming along though, and that makes me happy. Our living room is almost ready to move the office stuff into. The office is what will soon be the baby's room. We just have a few more projects to finish in order to have enough space. The baby's room hasn't even been started of course since we can't move anything out of it yet. That will be a challenge for another day.
We got rid of one old harvest gold appliance! We found such a great deal that we couldn't pass it up. One down, two to go. Our guest shower is also likely to be finished in another week or so! Those of you who follow will remember that we started that project 3 years ago... Yes... 3. If you doubt your ability to tile, follow your gut. You'll thank heaven for it.
In health news, I just took my one hour glucose tolerance test. I really hope I pass it because one hour was really not fun. I can't imagine the two and three. I took the two hour a long time ago, but the ravenous food beast inside me has become much more insistent since then. I saw one poor pregnant lady doing her three hour, and she was quite droopy. Since my fasting glucose levels were in the 70's, does anyone know if that means I'll likely pass this test?
And remember how I have the older neighbor who's just a bit um.... friendly... with me? Well, my distaste and worry over him have turned into full blown anxiety. It's awful. I'm assuming it's hormones or just repetitive experience or maybe just a mix of all of it. But every time I prepare to leave the house, I listen first for the sound of his hacking. Then I peek out the blinds as unobtrusively as I can. If he's not there, I dash out to my car. On the way back, I find myself getting anxious just before our street and grasp my cell phone in preparation to be "busy" if I have to walk past him. Not that a phone call always stops him, but at least I have an excuse to mostly ignore him. It sucks because I don't do much outside without Hub here... though it's too hot right now anyway.
I don't know if the neighbor knows I'm pregnant yet, but I wish he could never find out. He has expressed a desire to "babysit" for us when we have children before. NO WAY. He may have guessed from seeing me in certain unmistakable maternity tops, because he does watch from the windows sometimes. I wonder because he approached me very oddly the other day about the disaster that is our lawn. (Years of not enough money for lawn care and the desire but lack of know how to be environmentally friendly will do that to ya) Hub was standing there staring at him, so maybe that's why he seemed uncomfortable. My other thoughts were that maybe he's finally guessed that I avoid him or that he's guessed I'm pregnant and is all upset I didn't tell him. As for the first, I find it hard to believe that after over a year of this crap and no sign of repentance from him that he's suddenly had a light bulb moment. The Hub and pregnancy explanations seem more plausible. But with all this, the worst thing is that I feel guilty... ME. I feel like I'm hurting someone's feelings or something. What is it with that? The man is making me very uncomfortable in a highly inappropriate way, and I feel guilt. People like that really piss me off. They do what they want without thought to the feelings of others, and the people they're hurting pay the price no matter what. AARGH.
We got rid of one old harvest gold appliance! We found such a great deal that we couldn't pass it up. One down, two to go. Our guest shower is also likely to be finished in another week or so! Those of you who follow will remember that we started that project 3 years ago... Yes... 3. If you doubt your ability to tile, follow your gut. You'll thank heaven for it.
In health news, I just took my one hour glucose tolerance test. I really hope I pass it because one hour was really not fun. I can't imagine the two and three. I took the two hour a long time ago, but the ravenous food beast inside me has become much more insistent since then. I saw one poor pregnant lady doing her three hour, and she was quite droopy. Since my fasting glucose levels were in the 70's, does anyone know if that means I'll likely pass this test?
And remember how I have the older neighbor who's just a bit um.... friendly... with me? Well, my distaste and worry over him have turned into full blown anxiety. It's awful. I'm assuming it's hormones or just repetitive experience or maybe just a mix of all of it. But every time I prepare to leave the house, I listen first for the sound of his hacking. Then I peek out the blinds as unobtrusively as I can. If he's not there, I dash out to my car. On the way back, I find myself getting anxious just before our street and grasp my cell phone in preparation to be "busy" if I have to walk past him. Not that a phone call always stops him, but at least I have an excuse to mostly ignore him. It sucks because I don't do much outside without Hub here... though it's too hot right now anyway.
I don't know if the neighbor knows I'm pregnant yet, but I wish he could never find out. He has expressed a desire to "babysit" for us when we have children before. NO WAY. He may have guessed from seeing me in certain unmistakable maternity tops, because he does watch from the windows sometimes. I wonder because he approached me very oddly the other day about the disaster that is our lawn. (Years of not enough money for lawn care and the desire but lack of know how to be environmentally friendly will do that to ya) Hub was standing there staring at him, so maybe that's why he seemed uncomfortable. My other thoughts were that maybe he's finally guessed that I avoid him or that he's guessed I'm pregnant and is all upset I didn't tell him. As for the first, I find it hard to believe that after over a year of this crap and no sign of repentance from him that he's suddenly had a light bulb moment. The Hub and pregnancy explanations seem more plausible. But with all this, the worst thing is that I feel guilty... ME. I feel like I'm hurting someone's feelings or something. What is it with that? The man is making me very uncomfortable in a highly inappropriate way, and I feel guilt. People like that really piss me off. They do what they want without thought to the feelings of others, and the people they're hurting pay the price no matter what. AARGH.
Friday, July 24, 2009
Yet Another Doctor Visit
I got to see my favorite Endo today! My obgyn had hinted that he would take care of my tsh monitoring from now on, but nope. I'm not giving up my endo. I trust her endlessly, and she has never let me down on my health. She knows my endocrinology history and needs way better than any other doctor I currently have. Plus, this is what she does. It's her specialty. I do not want her left out of the loop on my Hashi's or PCOS. No way.
Neutral news: tsh is climbing slightly again, so 100mcg of Synthroid here we come! Thank God for you, you wonderful little pill. Knowing that I've bought quite a few bottles of Synthroid now that I haven't been able to finish due to increases, the nurse gave me several sample packets. I was so pleased because it was getting old buying new bottles all the time.
Good news: my glucose was down to 78! If you recall, last time it was measured was right before I got pregnant, and it was 88. Before that, it never dropped below 97. (over 99 is considered high) Thank God for Metformin again!
Now I shall prepare for my regularly scheduled after lunch nap.
Neutral news: tsh is climbing slightly again, so 100mcg of Synthroid here we come! Thank God for you, you wonderful little pill. Knowing that I've bought quite a few bottles of Synthroid now that I haven't been able to finish due to increases, the nurse gave me several sample packets. I was so pleased because it was getting old buying new bottles all the time.
Good news: my glucose was down to 78! If you recall, last time it was measured was right before I got pregnant, and it was 88. Before that, it never dropped below 97. (over 99 is considered high) Thank God for Metformin again!
Now I shall prepare for my regularly scheduled after lunch nap.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Mad
The people who went home on "So You Think You Can Dance?" Not cool America. Not cool at all. You suck. Perhaps I will go pal up with my Canadian husband now.
Books Again
I've finished a few more books.
Tithe was an interesting fairy tale for (presumably) teens that mixes modern day grit and obscenity with fairy tale beings. Though in this book, fairy tale beings are not always all they're cracked up to be. I found it dark and not as well written as it could have been, but intriguing all the same. I often found myself startled that this book was marketed as "young adult." It was different than most things I've read though, and I appreciate that. I hear the other books in the trilogy are better than the first, so I'm eager to read them for myself.
Inkdeath is the third book in the "Inkheart" trilogy. I immensely enjoyed the first book. The second book was somewhat dark near the end for me, but still kept the magic alive somewhat. This third book, I have to say didn't do as much for me. I felt like it took a very long time for the author to start establishing her main plot and build up. It seemed like I read (and skimmed I confess) through about 200 pages of bountiful narrative on the hopelessness of the situation in the story. The imagery was vivid in all its bloody glory, that's for sure. I just don't think she needed quite so much.
Then when the plot did start chugging along, there were so many upsurges, falls and twists that I felt like I was losing the story. I was still invested near the end and even had the heart pounding excitement I had with the other two. All in all though, I was disappointed.
Tithe was an interesting fairy tale for (presumably) teens that mixes modern day grit and obscenity with fairy tale beings. Though in this book, fairy tale beings are not always all they're cracked up to be. I found it dark and not as well written as it could have been, but intriguing all the same. I often found myself startled that this book was marketed as "young adult." It was different than most things I've read though, and I appreciate that. I hear the other books in the trilogy are better than the first, so I'm eager to read them for myself.
Inkdeath is the third book in the "Inkheart" trilogy. I immensely enjoyed the first book. The second book was somewhat dark near the end for me, but still kept the magic alive somewhat. This third book, I have to say didn't do as much for me. I felt like it took a very long time for the author to start establishing her main plot and build up. It seemed like I read (and skimmed I confess) through about 200 pages of bountiful narrative on the hopelessness of the situation in the story. The imagery was vivid in all its bloody glory, that's for sure. I just don't think she needed quite so much.
Then when the plot did start chugging along, there were so many upsurges, falls and twists that I felt like I was losing the story. I was still invested near the end and even had the heart pounding excitement I had with the other two. All in all though, I was disappointed.
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Questions and bits
Thanks for all the supportive comments! You guys rock! I felt much better today. This was the first day I didn't want to fall flat on my face after work in a loooooooooong time.
Quick question: We want to start buying a few disposable diapers. (We're going cloth, but want to have a few disposables on hand.) Does anyone have some good tips on ones that don't have the bleaching/dioxins etc in them and/or are somewhat environmentally friendly AND actually work well? (fewer leaks, that sort of thing)
I know, I know. I tempt fate, but we don't care anymore. We are enjoying this and preparing for this dammit. And if something goes wrong, well then some lucky person can have the loot I've built up.
Quick question: We want to start buying a few disposable diapers. (We're going cloth, but want to have a few disposables on hand.) Does anyone have some good tips on ones that don't have the bleaching/dioxins etc in them and/or are somewhat environmentally friendly AND actually work well? (fewer leaks, that sort of thing)
I know, I know. I tempt fate, but we don't care anymore. We are enjoying this and preparing for this dammit. And if something goes wrong, well then some lucky person can have the loot I've built up.
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Blah
I don't get a lot of bloggy time while Hub is still busy with projects. But I do want to say that I was hoping I'd be one of those women who can work like a mule while pregnant. Who was I kidding? Of course that's not happening. Oh I'm working - because I have to - but I am very very tired every day. It kills me to not have a nap in the middle of my 11 hour day. So much for being superwoman.
Friday, July 17, 2009
Harry Potter
We saw it last night! I was very excited for this movie. I rarely go to the movies unless it's something I think will benefit from being seen on the big screen, or I'm so excited I can't wait for it. HP falls into both categories for me.
I think it was very good. Of course there are continuity issues because of the fact that the book is so huge. And of course some of the kid actors still pale in comparison to some of the stunning supporting actors. Some of the "romance" in it was handled pretty awkwardly as well - though I can't decide if that was purposeful to highlight how awkward teens are with that stuff.
However, the movie was beautiful with a lot of good action and emotional impact. I enjoyed it. I'm very interested to see how the next two installments turn out.
You'll note that I deleted most of my links. I've decided to go Google Reader for various reasons. If you like one of the sites I had listed here and need me to send it to you, just drop me a note.
I think it was very good. Of course there are continuity issues because of the fact that the book is so huge. And of course some of the kid actors still pale in comparison to some of the stunning supporting actors. Some of the "romance" in it was handled pretty awkwardly as well - though I can't decide if that was purposeful to highlight how awkward teens are with that stuff.
However, the movie was beautiful with a lot of good action and emotional impact. I enjoyed it. I'm very interested to see how the next two installments turn out.
You'll note that I deleted most of my links. I've decided to go Google Reader for various reasons. If you like one of the sites I had listed here and need me to send it to you, just drop me a note.
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Boring Pregnancy Update
Yup - the title says it all. Sorry folks. To be honest though, I'm kind of glad to be boring. It's much better than some alternative excitement I could think of. Project, "finally finish the house so we have room for baby" is coming along quite well. Not a day goes by that I don't thank the good heavens that Hub got that raise when he did. Without it, we would be hard pressed to make these improvements, and our lives would be much more difficult. Hub also has a little more time now, so we're making more inroads on the big furniture moving and general house upkeep - which brings me to another point...
I thought the second trimester was supposed to be chock full of energy! At least, that's what the books say. I am decidedly NOT energetic. In fact, I'm exhausted much of the time. It's not so bad when I'm not working and can have a midday nap. Working wears me the hell out though. By the end of my work day, it's all I can do to drag myself to the car and make it home without collapsing into unconsciousness. I suppose the Florida summer heat may have something to do with it as well. Am I the only one not noticing much energy at this point?
The belly is growing by leaps and bounds. The books say that this is the time of most rapid growth. I can definitely attest to that. I feel the most stretched that I have, things are tender, and it seems you can see more belly every day. It's kinda cool. And in fact, I kept it to myself for a while, but I'm pretty sure I felt the baby the same morning that we heard the heartbeat. I was lying in bed, half asleep after hitting the snooze button. I was on my back and very still when I felt what seemed to be the faintest touch imaginable from the inside of my uterus area. It was as if someone ran three fingers in quick succession very lightly across my insides. I completely didn't expect the shock. I guess I should have. It's just like if someone you didn't know was there touches your shoulder. It makes you start a bit. This did that too. I then spent a minute questioning myself before yelling at Hub to wake up so I could tell him. He figured the kid wanted me to get up to go to our appointment.
And for those people who tell others it's probably gas bubbles? I can tell you that this felt the farthest from gas bubbles of anything I've ever experienced. In fact, it felt like nothing I've ever experienced period. Thanks for the reassurance little one.
As for that Gatorade thing - it is working quite well! The doctor recommended at least 32 oz a day. And guess what? I don't have nearly the amount of dizzy spells I have before! And even better yet, water no longer makes me want to yak! HURRAY! This is quite important in summertime Florida, I assure you. I urge any of you experiencing lots of dizziness and difficulty keeping fluids in (especially after morning sickness has ended as mine had) to ask your doctor about it. Man it's made such a difference. And he recommended Gatorade in particular because it has glucose and electrolytes. Remember that.. not just sucrose and electrolytes, or electrolytes alone.
This has been your PSA for the week.
I thought the second trimester was supposed to be chock full of energy! At least, that's what the books say. I am decidedly NOT energetic. In fact, I'm exhausted much of the time. It's not so bad when I'm not working and can have a midday nap. Working wears me the hell out though. By the end of my work day, it's all I can do to drag myself to the car and make it home without collapsing into unconsciousness. I suppose the Florida summer heat may have something to do with it as well. Am I the only one not noticing much energy at this point?
The belly is growing by leaps and bounds. The books say that this is the time of most rapid growth. I can definitely attest to that. I feel the most stretched that I have, things are tender, and it seems you can see more belly every day. It's kinda cool. And in fact, I kept it to myself for a while, but I'm pretty sure I felt the baby the same morning that we heard the heartbeat. I was lying in bed, half asleep after hitting the snooze button. I was on my back and very still when I felt what seemed to be the faintest touch imaginable from the inside of my uterus area. It was as if someone ran three fingers in quick succession very lightly across my insides. I completely didn't expect the shock. I guess I should have. It's just like if someone you didn't know was there touches your shoulder. It makes you start a bit. This did that too. I then spent a minute questioning myself before yelling at Hub to wake up so I could tell him. He figured the kid wanted me to get up to go to our appointment.
And for those people who tell others it's probably gas bubbles? I can tell you that this felt the farthest from gas bubbles of anything I've ever experienced. In fact, it felt like nothing I've ever experienced period. Thanks for the reassurance little one.
As for that Gatorade thing - it is working quite well! The doctor recommended at least 32 oz a day. And guess what? I don't have nearly the amount of dizzy spells I have before! And even better yet, water no longer makes me want to yak! HURRAY! This is quite important in summertime Florida, I assure you. I urge any of you experiencing lots of dizziness and difficulty keeping fluids in (especially after morning sickness has ended as mine had) to ask your doctor about it. Man it's made such a difference. And he recommended Gatorade in particular because it has glucose and electrolytes. Remember that.. not just sucrose and electrolytes, or electrolytes alone.
This has been your PSA for the week.
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Politics Anew
I am ashamed to say that I have been so self absorbed lately that I have definitely dropped far off in keeping up with politics and world relations. I keep half an ear to the radio and tv and click on news stories occasionally, but I haven't been actively seeking information as I usually do. We all know why this is happening, but that's a shame because I've always felt that I want to be an informed mother who makes her choices based on research and not feelings, and who can teach her children the same way. Lately, however, it seems my brain cells are dropping off one by one.
This is where you come in. One thing in particular about which I should know much more is the proposed health care plan. I know it makes me nervous any time the government tries to fix health care, because I'm not certain it can be done properly with all the bickering and pandering. I know a tiny bit, but it seems difficult to understand how the plan will work without hearing a load of bull from one side or the other. Plus, I'm just feeling lazy. If anyone would like to point out research that helped them understand their stance on the issue, I would greatly appreciate it. Note that I'm looking for more fact based information. The sensationalist stuff is quite easy to find. Notably, if there are made up words or words that invoke certain peoples' names or explosive words such as "doomsday," then I'm not interested.
I did just hear the Pope's views on redistribution of wealth and economic concerns. Though I'm not Catholic, it has always fascinated me the way the Church leans left of our Democrats on most socioeconomic issues and right of them on most purely social issues like homosexuality. It would make for some difficult voting if you're doing it according to your religious beliefs, that's for sure.
This is where you come in. One thing in particular about which I should know much more is the proposed health care plan. I know it makes me nervous any time the government tries to fix health care, because I'm not certain it can be done properly with all the bickering and pandering. I know a tiny bit, but it seems difficult to understand how the plan will work without hearing a load of bull from one side or the other. Plus, I'm just feeling lazy. If anyone would like to point out research that helped them understand their stance on the issue, I would greatly appreciate it. Note that I'm looking for more fact based information. The sensationalist stuff is quite easy to find. Notably, if there are made up words or words that invoke certain peoples' names or explosive words such as "doomsday," then I'm not interested.
I did just hear the Pope's views on redistribution of wealth and economic concerns. Though I'm not Catholic, it has always fascinated me the way the Church leans left of our Democrats on most socioeconomic issues and right of them on most purely social issues like homosexuality. It would make for some difficult voting if you're doing it according to your religious beliefs, that's for sure.
Friday, July 10, 2009
3-D Ultrasound Concerns
When we were at the doctor's office yesterday, he surprised us by saying he could not condone the use of 3-D ultrasounds for pleasure and would not perform one. That actually shocked me because I had not yet heard of any controversy surrounding the practice. After all, most of my friends and family have 3-D photos of their babies in utero. And the photos are astonishingly detailed. We could tell my nephew had his Mom's nose before he was born.
This seemed to be a hot button topic for my usually cheery doctor, so I asked him about it. He explained that the frequency is different for the 3-D's and that there could be some evidence to show that it can cause certain side effects that aren't worth the risk unless there's a medical need to see such detail.
At first I was sure I still wanted the ultrasound. I've been dreaming of seeing my beautiful baby in such detail for a long time. But then reason prevailed, and I started doing research on the topic. I couldn't find a lot of information, but here is a very informative article that might change my mind. Has anyone else heard this? If you or loved ones were in the situation, what did you decide to do?
This seemed to be a hot button topic for my usually cheery doctor, so I asked him about it. He explained that the frequency is different for the 3-D's and that there could be some evidence to show that it can cause certain side effects that aren't worth the risk unless there's a medical need to see such detail.
At first I was sure I still wanted the ultrasound. I've been dreaming of seeing my beautiful baby in such detail for a long time. But then reason prevailed, and I started doing research on the topic. I couldn't find a lot of information, but here is a very informative article that might change my mind. Has anyone else heard this? If you or loved ones were in the situation, what did you decide to do?
Project House Organization (plus some baby stuff)
Hub and I went to Ikea recently to start organizing this craziness of a house! We hadn't exactly gotten around to getting the house like we wanted it to be in the first place - especially due to finances. But even when that got better, with him working on some big exciting projects and me starting school, we just neglected everything else. Now we have to get it done or there will be no room for baby in this little place! Plus we'd like it to look nice. We have been here almost 3 years after all.
So it was off to Ikea to find some organization stuff! It was very exciting to actually buy the things for which we were looking. We came home with a great solution to our entertainment system woes. But what really caught our attention was the baby section. Ooooh the baby section. Have you guys seen Ikea's selection of adorable baby gear? I could hardly believe it myself. It was whimsical. It was creative. It was different and stimulating. We loved it! There is a rug and a large crinkly pillowy hedgehog that we have decided we must have. And people, they even have stuffed alligators! Oh yes. Our child is getting a stuffed alligator. He or she is going to know that all animals are important damn it!
I haven't seen a registry there, and ooh what a shame. It's also a shame that we have to wait 5 more weeks to get the anatomy scan. Boooo!
So it was off to Ikea to find some organization stuff! It was very exciting to actually buy the things for which we were looking. We came home with a great solution to our entertainment system woes. But what really caught our attention was the baby section. Ooooh the baby section. Have you guys seen Ikea's selection of adorable baby gear? I could hardly believe it myself. It was whimsical. It was creative. It was different and stimulating. We loved it! There is a rug and a large crinkly pillowy hedgehog that we have decided we must have. And people, they even have stuffed alligators! Oh yes. Our child is getting a stuffed alligator. He or she is going to know that all animals are important damn it!
I haven't seen a registry there, and ooh what a shame. It's also a shame that we have to wait 5 more weeks to get the anatomy scan. Boooo!
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Nuggets
Some nuggets of information I've gleaned lately...
- The very newest version of What to Expect When You Are Expecting is soooo much better than the older one. Gone is the assumption that you can eat this perfect diet no matter how sick you are and added is much more up to date info that you may actually be asking at this point. They also included a much better rundown of the baby's development. Because really, isn't that what everyone mostly wants to know about?
- There actually is one good thing about being one of the last in your age group family and friend wise to become pregnant.... THE LOOT! I have offers from no less than 5 friends and family members to give us things ranging from furniture to adorable clothes to computerized toys. YAHOO!
- I only gained one pound since last visit. Just thought I'd sneak that in there. And by the way, I still weigh 10 pounds less than I did at the height of the clomid, femara, iui and injectibles crap.
- Dizziness sucks, but Gatorade is supposed to help. Woo hoo! An allowance from the doctor to DRINK SUGAR!
- My feelings about adoption have surprisingly only become stronger while pregnant. I very firmly believe that we are meant to adopt a sibling after this baby. I saw another adoptive family at work recently, and that thought popped into my head. Now how to gently ease Hub into that. All in good time... We should probably have this one first.
- Zofran causes constipation. I did not know this. Farah informed me. Just beware.
- My male ob/gyn does not know what a bella band is. Well... I guess now he does.
Found
Hub and I heard our baby's heartbeat for the first time today. What an amazing, incredible, indescribable experience. It was fast and strong - 153-160bpm. And with that, I think both of us have found somewhere to grow.
Saturday, July 4, 2009
Here Goes...
OK, I hate arranging photos in this thing so they're a little out of order. The first, smallest one is pretty much the minute I got the positive test because I wanted a "base" photo. Keep in mind that I had pre-AF (or shall I say pregnancy?) bloat going on. The one in the middle is 10 weeks (horrible red shirt - Hub's favorite - NOT), and the one on the right is 8 weeks.
The last one on the bottom is 12. It was taken on our cruise as you can see. :) And no, I almost never dress up for belly shots. I like to get them first thing in the morning to reduce the bloated look. And you know what? Ever since I have started showing more, I am absolutely shocked at how many people will judge your belly size... as in, "you're too big for this stage!" or whatever it may be. The unsolicited advice and all that I expected, but the rudeness about my size??? SO not ready for it.
The last one on the bottom is 12. It was taken on our cruise as you can see. :) And no, I almost never dress up for belly shots. I like to get them first thing in the morning to reduce the bloated look. And you know what? Ever since I have started showing more, I am absolutely shocked at how many people will judge your belly size... as in, "you're too big for this stage!" or whatever it may be. The unsolicited advice and all that I expected, but the rudeness about my size??? SO not ready for it.
Holidays and Disbelief
Happy Independence Day U.S.ians! (and I'm very sorry I missed Canada Day. :( - July 1st)
Still pregnant and really starting to pop out that stomach now. It's weird. I think I can feel the top of my uterus when I push around just beneath my belly button. It feels hard and not normal. It also feels like I'm touching an internal organ, and that it's just wrong to do so. ha. I'm also noticing that when I bend over, it feels like there's a log in there restricting the motion. It's nothing like being bloated. Most of the bloat seems to be easing substantially.
Getting out of bed and changing positions is becoming tricky as well since the round ligaments protest long and loudly if I do it the "incorrect" way. On the good front though, food aversions are easing considerably along with a lot of the nausea! NOW I'll eat tons of food and show that doctor (and some of my friends) what a REAL weight gain means. hahahaha (picture that as a wicked laugh)
It's starting to become easier to believe that this is happening to us, but it's still just a bit beyond my brain's full comprehension. How did this happen to US of all people? I feel like I must be celebrating for a friend and this pregnancy stuff is all just sympathy pregnancy. Seriously mind blowing.
Still pregnant and really starting to pop out that stomach now. It's weird. I think I can feel the top of my uterus when I push around just beneath my belly button. It feels hard and not normal. It also feels like I'm touching an internal organ, and that it's just wrong to do so. ha. I'm also noticing that when I bend over, it feels like there's a log in there restricting the motion. It's nothing like being bloated. Most of the bloat seems to be easing substantially.
Getting out of bed and changing positions is becoming tricky as well since the round ligaments protest long and loudly if I do it the "incorrect" way. On the good front though, food aversions are easing considerably along with a lot of the nausea! NOW I'll eat tons of food and show that doctor (and some of my friends) what a REAL weight gain means. hahahaha (picture that as a wicked laugh)
It's starting to become easier to believe that this is happening to us, but it's still just a bit beyond my brain's full comprehension. How did this happen to US of all people? I feel like I must be celebrating for a friend and this pregnancy stuff is all just sympathy pregnancy. Seriously mind blowing.
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Books!
Since my last class ended and (let's face it) I've found an excuse to laze around more, I've found time to read again! Ah what a pleasure. Here are some books I've recently finished:
Waiting for Daisy - Peggy Orenstein
This book is full of moments that dragged me into my old feelings of infertility and allowed me to bond with the writer. She is so sage when looking back upon her time in so many aspects. She really hit a lot of my feelings right on the money. And her story is amazing. The only thing I found difficult was that she is really hard on herself and her decisions throughout the book. Knowing as I do how guilt laden we often are in this situation, I'd love to see her loved ones' perspectives on what was happening. I also loved the exploration of Japanese culture and the interplay of how she and her husband relate to each other as part of their separate cultures. It's even more fascinating for me as I often face similar issues.
Navigating the Land of IF - Melissa Ford (Stirrup Queens!)
This is a book I wish I had had on my bookshelf as a companion to Unsung Lullabies during the hardest times. Unsung Lullabies was great for helping to work through my issues, but Melissa's book has all the warmth and personal anecdotes that I felt were missing from Unsung Lullabies. She does a great job just as she does on her blog of drawing the reader in and making them feel better about herself and her situation without glossing over the truth. What a unique and wonderful talent.
A Wind in the Door - Madeleine L'Engle
While I mildly enjoyed this companion to A Wrinkle in Time on our cruise, it can't possibly compare. I found myself having to slog through sections of it. The characters just did not seem as well developed, the story line was slower and had fewer layers, and the continuity between the first book and this one was stilted. Even her beautiful prose seemed somewhat absent here. Jen assures me this is an anomaly, so I will continue with the series.
Belly Laughs - Jenny McCarthy
I know so many people love this book and Jenny McCarthy. But to be very honest here, I felt it was not at all well written. The prose was stilted and the transitions were lacking amongst other things. The being said, we all know that Ms. McCarthy is not a professional writer but wanted to share her feelings about this experience for which she feels such passion - and that's admirable. I did enjoy her stories and her honesty. I was glad to see some of the issues tackled about which no one speaks bluntly. It's a cute book and a quick read. It's just good to go into it expecting that experience.
Books I'm reading now.* (I'll get back to you!)
Silent Spring - Rachel Carson (finally!)
So far - finding it to be the illuminating, beautifully written book that it's been touted to be. THANK YOU to Ms. Carson.
The Last Flight of the Scarlet Macaw - Bruce Barcott
I started this just before we pulled into port in Belize. Learning about so much of Belize's history is fascinating - especially now that I've seen a teeny tiny piece of it. God I love travel and ecology. Anyway - I'm finding the story of this woman's life and that of the animals' and country's plight engrossing.
(Yes Jen - A Swiftly Tilting Planet is on the List - library books must be read before return date first. ;-)
*Note that I often bounce back and forth between books depending on my mood throughout the day or week. I don't seem to have a problem keeping plots straight etc unless it's a really difficult book. And then I usually take a break from it with a light reader. The other exception is if it's a book I absolutely cannot put down. Those I just devour in hours.
Waiting for Daisy - Peggy Orenstein
This book is full of moments that dragged me into my old feelings of infertility and allowed me to bond with the writer. She is so sage when looking back upon her time in so many aspects. She really hit a lot of my feelings right on the money. And her story is amazing. The only thing I found difficult was that she is really hard on herself and her decisions throughout the book. Knowing as I do how guilt laden we often are in this situation, I'd love to see her loved ones' perspectives on what was happening. I also loved the exploration of Japanese culture and the interplay of how she and her husband relate to each other as part of their separate cultures. It's even more fascinating for me as I often face similar issues.
Navigating the Land of IF - Melissa Ford (Stirrup Queens!)
This is a book I wish I had had on my bookshelf as a companion to Unsung Lullabies during the hardest times. Unsung Lullabies was great for helping to work through my issues, but Melissa's book has all the warmth and personal anecdotes that I felt were missing from Unsung Lullabies. She does a great job just as she does on her blog of drawing the reader in and making them feel better about herself and her situation without glossing over the truth. What a unique and wonderful talent.
A Wind in the Door - Madeleine L'Engle
While I mildly enjoyed this companion to A Wrinkle in Time on our cruise, it can't possibly compare. I found myself having to slog through sections of it. The characters just did not seem as well developed, the story line was slower and had fewer layers, and the continuity between the first book and this one was stilted. Even her beautiful prose seemed somewhat absent here. Jen assures me this is an anomaly, so I will continue with the series.
Belly Laughs - Jenny McCarthy
I know so many people love this book and Jenny McCarthy. But to be very honest here, I felt it was not at all well written. The prose was stilted and the transitions were lacking amongst other things. The being said, we all know that Ms. McCarthy is not a professional writer but wanted to share her feelings about this experience for which she feels such passion - and that's admirable. I did enjoy her stories and her honesty. I was glad to see some of the issues tackled about which no one speaks bluntly. It's a cute book and a quick read. It's just good to go into it expecting that experience.
Books I'm reading now.* (I'll get back to you!)
Silent Spring - Rachel Carson (finally!)
So far - finding it to be the illuminating, beautifully written book that it's been touted to be. THANK YOU to Ms. Carson.
The Last Flight of the Scarlet Macaw - Bruce Barcott
I started this just before we pulled into port in Belize. Learning about so much of Belize's history is fascinating - especially now that I've seen a teeny tiny piece of it. God I love travel and ecology. Anyway - I'm finding the story of this woman's life and that of the animals' and country's plight engrossing.
(Yes Jen - A Swiftly Tilting Planet is on the List - library books must be read before return date first. ;-)
*Note that I often bounce back and forth between books depending on my mood throughout the day or week. I don't seem to have a problem keeping plots straight etc unless it's a really difficult book. And then I usually take a break from it with a light reader. The other exception is if it's a book I absolutely cannot put down. Those I just devour in hours.
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