Wordless Wednesday

This is Brady and I shopping today. He will be 2 weeks tomorrow and we have another doc's apt. We will let you know how it goes!

Fat Days!

You know those days when you wake up and your just feel large and in charge. Well, folks, today is one of those days!

I don't know what it is. I mean, I know after having a baby, your body doesn't bounce back as quickly as you would want it to, and it could have something to do with the 12 seconds I have to take a shower, or the fact that I feel like Ted Bundy (from Married w/ Children) except the beer stains on my shirt are replaced by spit up, but I am just feelin' UG-LEY!

You see, I have curly hair and if I don't straighten it, or curl it, it looks like poo! I just want to feel pretty again, scratch that... I just want to feel not UG-LEY. Not to mention, as soon as you get out of the shower, it takes about 12 seconds for my boobs to start leaking on my newly cleaned skin. So... I have to throw on another bra.

I never thought I would be SO sick of bras! Sometimes I wish I lived in some tribe where I could let 'em just hang out! Geesh!

Okthx... stepping down from my soap box!

On a much happier note... Mr Man is getting to be more adorable each day! He has started to mimic some of my movements. Like, if I say "oooooh" - he puts his lips in a O and try's to make a sound.

He also has found that he has a voice. This, my freaders, is a blessing AND a curse. Now, I knew my child would be somewhat musically inclined, as both hubs and I are, but I didn't know how quickly he would realize this voice thing. He grunts every chance he gets (and no... he is not just pooping) and he goes, "hmmm" all the time. When he is feeding it is hysterical, mainly because I can't help but think of that movie What about Bob - you know, where he is eating that corn and he just won't shut up, and everyone at the table is laughing... "More Corn Bob?"

That is how good the boob juice must be, people. Brilliant!

A Message from George Carlin

Apparently George Carlin's wife recently died. This was the speech he gave. It is an amazing piece of work, and something to ALWAYS remember!

Isn't it amazing that George Carlin - comedian of the 70's and 80's - could write something so very eloquent...and so very appropriate.

A Message by George Carlin:

The paradox of our time in history is that we have taller buildings but shorter tempers, wider Freeways,but narrower viewpoints. We spend more, but have less, we buy more, but enjoy less. We have bigger houses and smaller families, more conveniences, but less time.

We have more degrees but less sense, more knowledge, but less judgment, more experts, yet more problems, more medicine, but less wellness.We drink too much, smoke too much, spend too recklessly, laugh too little, drive too fast, get too angry, stay up too late, get up too tired, read too little, watch TV too much, and pray too seldom.

We have multiplied our possessions, but reduced our values. We talk too much, love too seldom, and hate too often. We've learned how to make a living, but not a life. We've added years to life not life to years.

We've been all the way to the moon and back, but have trouble crossing the street to meet a new neighbor. We conquered outer space but not inner space. We've done larger things, but not better things.

We've cleaned up the air, but polluted the soul. We've conquered the atom, but not our prejudice. We write more, but learn less. We plan more, but accomplish less. We've learned to rush, but not to wait. We build more computers to hold more information, to produce more copies than ever, but we communicate less and less.

These are the times of fast foods and slow digestion, big men and small character, steep profits and shallow relationships. These are the days of two incomes but more divorce, fancier houses, but broken homes.

These are days of quick trips, disposable diapers, throwaway morality, one night stands, overweight bodies, and pills that do everything from cheer, to quiet, to kill. It is a time when there is much in the showroom window and nothing in the stock room. A time when technology can bring this letter to you, and a time when you can choose either to share this insight, or to just hit delete...

Remember; spend some time with your loved ones, because they are not going to be around forever.

Remember, say a kind word to someone who looks up to you in awe, because that little person soon will grow up and leave your side.

Remember, to give a warm hug to the one next to you, because that is the only treasure you can give with your heart and it doesn't cost a cent.

Remember, to say, "I love you" to your partner and your loved ones, but most of all mean it. A kiss and an embrace will mend hurt when it comes from deep inside of you.

Remember to hold hands and cherish the moment for someday that person will not be there again.

Give time to love, give time to speak! And give time to share the precious thoughts in your mind.

AND ALWAYS REMEMBER: Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.

If you don't pass this to at least 8 people....Who cares?

~George Carlin

A Neurotic Mother!

Well folks, I am officially a neurotic mother.

Last night, after a long nap, Brady woke up and had a little cream colored mucus on his eyelid. He tried to open his eye but it seemed it had crusted over and it was too hard to open. I was so freaked out, I started screaming to hubs to call the pediatrician.

After a short conversation we were informed our baby had a blocked tear duct. All we had to do was massage the tear duct for 5-10 seconds and he should be better.

PHEW! I was so nervous. Then, last night, his dried umbilical thing came off. I am so glad, because I always felt nervous when changing a diaper around it.

I sure hope this neurosis goes away, otherwise I may have to lock Brady in the house ;-)

On a different note... we took a couple photo's of Brady today for his birth announcement.

Tell me which one you like best!

Gettin Kinda Antzy!

Today, for some reason, I want to go explore the outside. It seems I have been in the house forever - almost a month (while in my 9th month of pregnancy) and now for 1 week with my bundle.

Don't get me wrong... I LOVE being home with my man, but I want to get him to explore the world with me. I want to be one of those cute moms that goes shopping with strollers and fun stuff.

It is quite difficult to get out of the house, I must say though, because of the boob thing. Not to mention diapers and such. But I am ready to try it!

Hopefully tomorrow I will get to do some shopping! I am getting new patio cushions (to pump up my backyard!) from World Market. Tell me what you think!

1 Week!!

Today, folks, Brady is 1 week old! Here are some pictures of today!

Also, the lovely Ashley D at Turqoise Ribbons tagged me for a Meme.

The rules:

Link to the person that tagged you

Post the rules on your blog

Share six non-important things/habits/quirks about yourself

Tag six random people at the end of your post by linking to their blogs

Let each person know that they have been tagged by leaving a comment on their blog

*However, since I am a new mom, with a 1 week old, I thought it would be interesting to name 6 random things that Brady and I have accomplished!

1. We have learned to breast feed

2. We have moved from a Merconium diaper to a breast fed diaper (it went from looking like tar to mustard) - He is SO going to kill me if he ever reads this when he is older! ;-)

3. We have pumped a boob

4. Momma has lost 12 lbs.

5. My cankles are almost gone - yipee!

6. We have gotten into a nightly routine with sleep... YAY for sleep!!

Feel free to be tagged if you haven't done this already. It is time for a feeding ;-)

5 hours and a laugh!

OMG, I feel like so much has happened these past 2 days! Brady and myself have been attempting to get into SOME sort of routine, but it seems to no avail (yet!) He likes the boob juice about an hour at a time (sometimes he lets me sleep for 2 or 3 hours) but unfortunately that is kinda rare.

Plus it is kinda awkward when people want to stop by and you keep having to go into the bedroom with a boob out ;-) Hopefully, we will get the hang of this and I can tell people when to come so they don't have to wait?

Yesterday, was a rough day, overall. Brady was his usual, gorgeous self, in the morning and then I had a doc's apt, so we had work the day around that. Plus it was 20 min away, so I had to make sure the diaper bag was stocked! After we fed him, changed him, and loaded him up, we were off. He was SO good in the car. He must be like his daddy in that regard, because he just snuggles up and sleeps.

Then, I had to run to Target (and get more nursing bras) and Daddy left us in the car so I could nurse. That, my friend, was an experience. With Hooter Hider out, we set off to nurse. He nursed for a little, puked all over me, then himself, then we had to go the doc. We tried to clean up, but by the time we got to the doc, we had a dirty diaper. We changed him, headed back home and all was good, for about an hour.

We had guests come over, and althought I am glad Hubs cousin got to see the baby, it is kind of embarrasing (to me) to have people over, in a filthy house, with me having to excuse myself to whip out a boob. (I know, I am overreacting, they are family, but that is how I feel!)

Anyway, while sitting there, Mr Brady must have farted or something because he started to smile, and then (for all guests to see) he laughed!!! It was so funny. I think he actually coughed and farted at the same time, but it sounded like a chuckle. I laughed so hard, I started crying. It was truly magical.

Then, last night, Brady was pretty fussy until about 2am, so I propped him on the Boppy and we fell asleep for 30 minutes. Then I laid him in his Moses Basket *tangent begins - can I just say... I fought off getting a moses basket forever. I wanted no part. They are SO expensive and I thought why on earth would you spend all that money for 6 weeks use? But it is SO worth the money! He absolutely loves it! I guess he feels warm and secure like the womb and he sleeps so soundly! Thanks Grammie!!!* and he slept... and I talkin' slept!! for 3 hours! It was truly blissful. I got up, fed him again, and then he went BACK to sleep! I think I got a total of 5 hours. I feel like a new woman! SO rested!

Aaahhh! I feel like such an accomplished mom! 5 hours :D

Our First Doc's Apt!

So, on day 4 of life, we had our first doc's apt! This is Momma and Brady at the pediatricians office.

As for Brady, he is absolutely wonderful! He has no jaundice and he has only lost 3 ounces since coming home from the hospital... which is awesome.

We also talked about breast feeding, and it seems Brady and I are in a wondeful routine (read more here) and he does not need any vitamins or supplements. The pediatrician says I am doing a wondeful job, and as for all the blood loss, my color seems to be returning and it has not effected Brady whatsoever.

Overall Brady and I could not be better.

I do have one question though? I seem to have cankles (you know where your swollen feet merge into the calf and you can't tell the where one starts and where one ends) and I can't figure out why I am more swollen now than when I was pregnant. How weird? Can any moms give me advice on why this is or when it will go away?

Also, I would like to give a shout out! Can I just say hubs rocks the world! We have been trying to divide the time with Brady the best we can. So, this morning I was nodding off during breast feeding, because of not getting much sleep and he took Brady and let me sleep for a good 3 hours (off and on). Can it get better than that?

OH! and one more shout out... to my mom! On Sat (the first day with my boy) my mom shows up at 9:30am, with groceries - to stock my fridge, and she stayed most of the day to do laundry and cook Hubs and I dinner. I mean really... I am truly blessed!

3 Days old...

Since I have slept about 4 hours in 3 days... here is a post in pictures!

As for my health... I am still quite yellow in color and my lips are pretty white, but other than that, I am in no pain and I am walking, nursing and loving staring into the face of my baby.

I am a little nervous with him here (at home) but I am getting used to it. He slept in the bassinet last night and every time he wimpered I rushed to his side. Hopefully in time, this will go away. He is also sleeping a lot during the day and not so much at night, so I need to fix that. But as my best friend says... whatever works!

My little man has his first doc's apt tomorrow and we are very excited! We will let you know how it goes.

1 day old!

Tired... but overall... LOVING life! Mr Brady is more and more wonderful each hour he is here! He really is one of the best babies, Oh... and did I mention he is the smartest AND cutest of any baby out there :D

He loves to sleep with Momma and before I had him I bought us baby blue outfits, so we could match :-) See above! His favorite position is as close to the boob (if not on a boob) as possible. According to the RN's, they can smell the milk? Don't know if that is true, but as of now, he sure is a boob man! He is nursing like a true champ! He latched on his first go round.

As for me, I feel like a new woman. I really cannot complain. This is NOTHING compared to what I went through in June. I think God was just trying to prepare me for having stitches and taking care of a newborn. I am up and walking and we are (hopefully) headed home today!!!!!

Also, he seems to recognize Daddy and Mommy's voice, because everytime we talk to him, he looks up at us with those piercing blue eyes (hopefully a gift from Daddy!) He is very photogenic and he rarely cries. As long as he is fed, he has a clean diaper and he is close to a boob, he is quite content! My kind of man!

Thank you again for al the prayers and well wishes. Both Daddy and I are doing fantabulous! We can't wait to take our bundle home and have him see his nursery and meet Mochachino and Basil. We will keep you up to date, no doubt!!

Ciao,

Drea, Hubs and Brady!!

16 hours old!

And he couldn't be more precious!

First, let me just say, thank you, thank you for all the kind words, for everyone that came up here, and for all the lovely text messages and prayers. Lord knows we needed them. Well, at least I did. My son was a champ from the get go!

Yesterday, my water was broken at around 7:30 am (and can I just tell you that is the weirdest feeling) and I was given pitocin.

I progressed normally (in terms of dialation and thinning) and by 5pm we were almost ready to push.

I couldn't believe it was that easy up to that point. I mean, when they broke my water, I was having serious contractions, and when I got up to 2 cm's, I huffed and puffed and screamed nicely asked for an epidural. I did, however, before going through with it, ask and discuss my options. I was quite concerned with having a negative reaction to a drug called phentinol because I was a hypoglycemic, but the wonderful anesthesiologist assured me that nothing would go wrong. I did tell her, I always seem to be the crazy 1%, and she just smiled and said, I will keep that in mind!

So, with epidural on board, on my labor progressed. It was a lot of pressure in my pelvic bone but NOTHING I couldn't handle.

So at 5:30pm I started pushing. And I, apparently, pushed so hard that I was told to stop and we had to wait for the doctor. It was not a big deal, I had my rosary in hand and I was breeeeaaathing. Then, once the doc rushed in the room, I gave 2 big pushes and poof. There was my little man! It only took half and hour and I had an 8lb beautiful baby boy.

Unfortunately, once Brady was being cleaned up and Daddy was cutting the cord, there were some complications. The next thing I knew, there were what seemed like 50 people in the room and everyone was yelling at me. Apparently, my cervix had torn quite a bit and I was bleeding pretty badly. They had to give me another epidural and they tried to start another IV in my other hand, so that I could be given blood. However, the RN couldn't get the other hand IV in and I was still bleeding out. People were screaming and apparently my lips were turning blue.

To be honest, I don't remember much at that point. All I remember was shaking uncontrollably, someone telling me I had a fever, and that my lips had turned blue. Not to mention I had my OB pounding on my stomach and the RN STILL trying to push in the hand IV. I guess they were trying to stop the bleeding and deliver the placenta.

Finally, after 4 hours, my fever broke, and people were able to see through the nursery glass window our little bundle of joy.

As of now, I have quite a few stiches (down there), I am very weak, and I have to take a good amount of iron, because of all the blood loss.

Other than that, my baby is an absolute champ. I tried to nurse last night (about 2 hours after he was born) and he was like a fish to water. He did awesome! He has nursed 3 times this evening and morning and we are ready to go again.

Thanks again for all the well wishes and please keep me in your prayers.

He's Here!

Hello bloggy world. This is Elysa and I have the pleasure of introducing to you the one and only Brady.

Brady arrived at 6 pm CST on Thursday, April 17, 2008

He was 7 lb 15 oz and 19 inches long

I will let Andrea tell you all of the stories when ever she is feeling up to it. In the mean time here are some pictures of day 1.

Mom & Dad waiting on the little man to get here. I'm pretty sure it's against some law of nature to look this pretty while you are in between contractions.

It appears that Mr. Brady is related to his mama and has a lot to say:

Needless to say, everyone is so very excited that Brady is here!

Labor Update...

OK. This is Hubs with a labor update...

Andrea is 90% thinned. And she has hit 5cm!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

We're getting much closer and should be able to meet our son by 7:00 tonight at the latest!

Thanks from Andrea for all of your sweet words today. She has had her phone near her all day and you have all brought smiles to her face as she reads and posts your comments while laying in bed waiting.

We will update again (maybe right before the major pushing) in a little while.

- Hubs

Hee Hee... Whooooo!

Just an update:

Last night I walked into the L&D (labor and delivery) at around 9pm and we got the process started.

We signed the consent forms, got an IV and got ready to be thinned :) At around 11pm they gave me a "pill" that is inserted next to your hoo-ha and it makes your cervix drop and thin. Luckily I had alredy started moving to mid position, so when I got the pill I had already progressed.

After 2 doses of that pill, I started having steady contractions.

It is 7:30am and the doctor just broke my water and OMG it is the weirdest feeling!!! It feels like your peeing on yourself and people are walking in and out of the room.

Not to mention the contractions have gotten WAY stronger and WAY more frequent. I seriously thought I could handle more pain than this, but apparently I am a wimp. I have already gotten something that is supposed to "take the edge off" and LORD I am feeling it. I feel so LOOoooopy!

As of right now I am tired and in some amount of pain.

We will keep you informed once he gets here.

Thank you again for all your prayers and well wishes.

Today is the Day!!!!

EEEEK!

I seriously cannot believe TODAY is the Day! Holy Schmole! I am SO damn excited!!

Last night, I slept about... none! I tossed and turned and all I could think was had I done everything to make the houes PERFECT for my guy?

Yesterday, I couldn't even think. I tried to soak up some sun and read a book, and I did that for about 20 min, before my mind started wondering and then I cleaned. I cleaned the ENTIRE house. I mean, I pledged, vacuumed, and dusted. I even went as far as to vacuum the blinds. God forbid there is an ounce of dust for my little man :D

This morning, luckily, I have made plans to keep myself occupied! I am going glasses shopping with my mom and then hubs and I are headed to World Market for some awesome new Tiki torches and outdoor furniture cushions! So excited!

Obviously I won't be posting tomorrow.... but pictures are soon to come! Thank you, again, for all the prayers and well wishes!

Are you ready for this??

So... I have gotten 2 (not 1 BUT 2!) comments today from an anonymous person saying how vain and selfish of a person I am and that being pregnant is a gift.
Really... because if you actually read the blog... you would read that ;-)

So... the first one I ignored, thinking, you obviously DON'T read my blog very often. I constantly make fun of myself and this was just one more way of saying goodbye to my pregnant body, but this is what is said:

Anonymous has left a new comment on your post "Things I am NOT going to miss by being pregnant!":
It amazes me how selfish and vain you are. Pregnancy is a gift from God and you seem more concerned with your phsycial appearance than praying for a healthy baby and safe pregnancy!

So then I log in now, and I get another one:

Anonymous has left a new comment on your post "Things I am NOT going to miss by being pregnant!":
Why didn't you publish my comment? Someone as vain and selfish as you surely welcomes the attention...

I find this nothing but... humorous. Considering this person is SO concerned with my blog that they felt the need to leave an ANONYMOUS comment. I dare you, Anonymous, to come out and SHOW your true colors!

What's your take on it?

Things I am NOT going to miss by being pregnant!

1. Elastic waisted pants!
2. People staring at your face, then your belly, then your face again
3. Random people asking questions
4. Random touches of the stomach from said random people
5. Not seeing your feet while standing, or your legs, for that matter
6. Realizing you have more depth to your body and squeezing through areas doesn't work anymore!
7. Shaving your legs. (Need I say more?)
8. Not being able to sleep on your back... or your stomach... or you side or anywhere else, because you have a huge basketball in your belly.
9. Back Pain.
10. Sensitive Boobs!

However, as I look at this list, I realize, I had it pretty easy! This pregnancy was a blessing in disguise. I never thought I would get pregnant so soon after my surgery, and I never thought (with all the shit my body went through) that this pregnancy would be easy. Sure there were ups and downs, but in retrospect, I wouldn't change them for anything.

The sensitive smell, the ever growing waist line, and the uncomfortable sleeping arrangements are all part of the game... and then in the end... you inevitably win. You win the greatest gift God could bestow. A child. In our case, a beautiful baby boy.

Hubs and I are so thankful for all the prayers and love that has been sent throughout this 9 month journey. We can only imagine what the next 18 years will bring. I feel like we are embarking on an entire new chapter, in this life novel that we write.

We will try and post pics as soon as we can. I know my BF E will be there taking pictures and I am SURE she will post some of the events. And I appologize, in advance, for the state I may be in. Crumpled hair, glasses and who knows what else :D

Have a great Tuesday!

The 17th it is!!!

So... I just got back from the doctor and it is set. We are due to have Brady on the 17th of April, which happens to be 1 day after his Godfather's birthday. We are SO excited! I cannot even tell you HOW excited I am.

This morning hubs looks at me and says... "2 more days and then we can have the whole weekend with him!" and I look at him and say... "honey, we are gonna have him a lot longer than a weekend!" Hee hee! Men... they have no idea. :D

The Event: It looks as though I will go in on the evening of the 16th and be given some medicine to induce. Then... anywhere from 12-24 hours later, our little man will be rocking in our arms!

Wow!!! Can you believe it has taken 9 months to create this little guy and now in only 2 days he will be in our arms?? Geesh! I thought the last few nights have been sleepless. I can't imagine every going to sleep for the next 2 days.

No Baby Yet...

This pic is after dinner of last week. I only ate about half my meal because I don't have any more room!

So... it looks as though, Mr. Brady will be here NO LATER than the 17th of April.

We have a doc's apt at 10:30 am tomorrow and we will know more then :)

But... where it stands now, is we will go into the hospital on April 16th at around 10pm and be given an inducement pill. Once that takes place it is 12-24 hours before our little man will arrive.
EEEK! Only 4 days and I will meet my man!

P.S. I started a new blog (yes - another one!) it is a nursing guide for a new mom. I want to chronicle the ups and downs of nursing a newborn. If your a new mom or just want to gain knowledge on the benefits of nusing... check it ou.

A Boob Blog!

Come on Baby!

Pleeeeeze get here! I cannot wait to hold you in my arms, and see what amazing things we can accomplish together!


In case you didn't know... no baby yet! Booo!

I am dyin' over herah!

Besides the fact that I am GINORMOUS! I just want to meet him and have the attention move from my belly to my little guy!

The news... Hubs and I have decided that (because my doc is going out of town) if Brady does not come naturally, we are going to be induced on the 16th and I should deliver by the 17th.

This is, obviously, not the ideal situation, but I can't risk being in a hospital with a doctor that DOESN'T know my entire situation.

I did get a chance to talk to my AWESOME cousin yesterday (she is a Doula AND a plethera of knowledge - when it comes to pregnancy) and she said I could try some natural remedies (i.e. sex, pressure points and castor oil) but if I did do the castor oil, I would need to wait until 38 weeks (tomorrow) because every day in the womb is better for my guy.

We will see... my dad, hubs and mom are not too thrilled about the castor oil (because it is REALLY supposed to work) and they think I should speak with my doc before attempting this.

I don't know? We will keep you posted!

Tonight I am headed to a blues concert in the park, so maybe the simple fact of lots of bass guitar and groovy music will make this man come on out and play!

A 6 Word Tag!!!

Yipppeee! - I’ve been tagged by Clueless Cat (this is what she came up with) to write my
6-word memoir. After some thought, actually a ton of thought (this is harder than it looks) this is mine:

Careening through life with reckless abandon.

I don’t know who’s done this already, so if I tag you and you’ve already done it, ignore me - but love me!

Lady Luck
Rachel
Katelin
Jelli Pants
Elise
Martini

Rules:
1. Write your own six word story.
2. Post it on your blog
3. Link to the person that tagged you in your post (me) and to the original post if possible
4. Tag at least five others with links
5. Don’t forget to leave a comment on the tagged blogs with an invitation to play.

Have fun and have a good Friday!

A Weather Wordless Wednesday... even though its Thursday.

Who am I kidding... I have never had a wordless wednesday in my life. I am just too damn talkative. Actualy, once I went on a Catholic school retreat and we weren't allowed to talk for 2 days. That was interesting. You put 15 Catholic school girls from the ages of 13-15 in a house and don't allow them to talk. Um... ok. But I digress.

Over the past couple of days we have had some bizarre weather! We had baseball size hail a week ago, that pretty much started it all, and my hubs car is pretty much one big dent. Then, we've had gorgeous weather (think 80 degrees by the pool) and now... the thunderstorms have started.

So... this morning hubs walked past the front door and this is what we came across.

One burnt tree, obviously hit by lightening.... and

A huge amount of foliage in our walkway. AWESOME!

Not only do we have to get a whole new roof and new patio furniture cushions, but we have to get Hubs car fixed, and now... this! I am not complaining though, because it could be a blessing in disguise. We are hoping to get someone to do it for less than the estimate and keep the change, if you will.

You know... cuz I'm Italian and I got people! JK!

P.S. In my last post I spoke about a book called "The Calm Technique: Meditation WITHOUT Magic or Mysticism." Just wanted to clarify that I am not joining some unique cult of Magic and Mysticism :)

Hope you all have a fab Thursday. I am off to visit with the ladies and their babies! Maybe all that baby talk will make Brady want to come out and play!!

Books!

Since I have been doing nothing but sitting around and waiting. I thought I would share with you some good books I have read recently.

I don't know if it is my attention span or my quest for knowledge, but I like to read about 2 - 3 books at a time. Usually one fun one, then a peaceful one, and then one educational one.

So... I just read "The Family Fortune: a novel." I thought it was pretty good. Very slow in the beginning and it took me a while to get into it, but once it got going, I couldn't put it down. It ended beautifully and I closed it with a smile on my face. To me, that is a great way to end a book.

I am also reading "The Calm Technique: Meditation with magic or mysticism." For years I have been dying to get into meditation, but someway or another I just haven't been able to put my mind to it. *Wow... that was the worst pun ever!! Anyway, I know I need to calm my brain and I would love to find that stress free 10 minutes in a day, but I can never seem to do it. I try and try and nothing happens. Maybe, again because I am Gemini, my brain flutters in 12 different directions all at once. Yesterday, while reading the book, I tried to do an excercise where you try to think about an egg (ONLY an egg, not the price of eggs, not hens, not farms, not anything but an egg) for 2 min. Yeah... that went about as well as me not trying to think about Brady being born. It was pittiful. I think I lasted... 2 seconds. I thought about everything but the damn egg. I think I even started thinking about Diesel fuel and why it is so expensive and that is why eggs are so expensive and... ugh. It was truly pittiful. However, the book walks you through this calm like state and (supposedly) it is going to teach me how to be quiet for at least 10 minutes of the day.

And finally the 3rd book I am reading is "Parenting with Dignity," by Mac Bledsoe (if you follow football, yes, that is Drew Bledsoe's father). This book, so far, has taught me so much! It has some brilliant ideas about parenting, about people, and about children. I would suggest, the MOMENT you get pregnant, you buy this book. I know Brady isn't here yet, but I do know that when he arrives, I will have a better understanding of how to raise him to the best of my ability.

With that said... are there any books that you all are reading that would be good for me to read? I need a new fun one.

Contemplation...

After yesterday, I just feel like I have so much on my mind. I thought so hard, last night, I gave myself a headache :)

I feel like a hypocrite, an impatient loser and everything else you could throw at me. You see... after my baby bro was born (who, by the way, was induced) I told myself, induction was NOT an option. And here I was... preaching it to all my friends. Now, here I sit, 37 wks pregnant, actually thinking about this idea.

I know that once you are in the situation it is much different, I just feel like I shouldn't have this option. I really don't want to induce. I don't even (think) I want an epidural. (However, I did ask the RN and you can be 8 centimeters before I decide to get one). I wanted Brady to come when HE was ready. I, however, have a huge fear of hospitals. I rarely trust them, and the moment I start walking in the doors, I start praying a Rosesary. After what happened last time, I am taking no chances.

It is just that I feel I have prepped for every possible scenario, except of course, my doctor going on vacation. Not like I can blame him. Shit, he has come to see me in my false labor 5 previous times. I am just so worried something will go wrong again and I will end up in the hospital with no explination AND a newborn to take care of.

I do want to say, however, thank you, thank you, thank you!! to all of my freaders who send such kind words. It is those "faceless" words in comments that always seem to put a smile on my face!

I only pray that Brady decides to grace us with his prescence before the 14th (my next doc's apt.) That way, all things will be solved and I won't have to "play God." I ask all of you to say a tiny prayer that Mr. Brady comes on his own, when HE is ready.

Thanks again! Hope you guys have a good Tuesday!

I want to curl up...

In a ball and stay there for 3 weeks! So... just got back from the doc, and the news, in my opinion could not have been more dissapointing.

1. I am still at 1 centimeter and I am still in posterior position (have not started to thin or the cervix has not moved forward), pretty much no labor in my near future.

2. My doctor is going out of town for my due date, which REALLY erks me because the whole reason I kept this doctor after the lap fiasco, was so that no one would "push" me into a C-section and would know my entire situation during labor.

3. and 3... my favorite (says in the MOST sarcastic voice) my due date has been pushed back to April 27th. You see, on my first sono they told me it was 4-27, then when I went back in a second time (previous to being diagnosed with GD) they told me, since Brady was so large, the due date must be moved to the 23rd. So... hubs and I have been calculating from the 23rd (38 weeks.) But no my friends, I am only 37 weeks and 1 day. Greeeaaat!

Not to mention, right before we left, I was expressing to hubs how uncomfortable I am and how I would like to discuss options. *And yes, please I know, EVERYONE has an opinion about this, Pitocin or not... I would like to just know the options* And he says to me, you know, we will just have to see what he says, because we really need to be thinking about when Brady wants to come. To which I reply: duh... but I would like to think about me for a second. I mean, I have this scar that burns every second my bellly grows, I haven't slept in weeks., and I am utterly exhausted just having to carry this child. To which HE replies: Trust me... you think about yourself enough for the rest of us. And to be honest.... that was it!

After that comment, I just feel... defeated! I am huge, I cannot sleep or get comfortable. Everyday I wake up and immediately want to take a nap and now... it is 80 degrees and the only pants that fit are jeans and cordoroys (sp??) because I don't want to buy more maternity clothes this close to the date. UGH! Defeated is the only word to describe my feelings.

79 Degrees and Waiting!

My partner in crime, or should I say... lounging!

Best view in the whole world.

This is our backyard!

Well, this is where you could find me all day yesterday! Lounging in the backyard while Hubs did some lawn work. Mochachino and I got some sun, read a book and realxed to Jazz on the outdoor speakers.

As for the baby... nothing really new. I had about 2 -3 contractions per hour, but nothing I could count. I have a doc's apt at 2 today, so when I know more, we will keep you updated!

A Movie in Review

LeatherHeads!

I would just like to say (if you read this blog you already know this) but I am a very opinionated woman. And one thing I hate more than life, is sitting through a crappy movie.

What is so weird, is that I was really looking forward to this movie. However, after seeing it last night... I was truly disappointed!

The thing about it is, the preview looked awesome. I LOVE George Clooney (however, that last movie I saw with him in it (Michael Clayton) I really didn't think was that good) and I LOVE football. So I really thought this movie would be for me.

Not so much!

The only review I can give you is this movie is slow, the plot pretty boring, and I thought Renee Zellwegger didn't even play her role very well. Now, trust me when I say, I know NOTHING about acting, but what was weird is that I understand what they were TRYING to do, I just don't feel they accomplished it.

My 2 cents... don't spend your money!

On the baby front:

Hubs and I are still awaiting Brady's arrival. I had about 10 contractions all day yesterday, but nothing more than that :( I have a doc's apt on Monday, so I will give you all an update once I know something.

To be honest, I am exhausted carrying my man around. I cannot sleep very well and now my back hurts on a daily basis. I really hope he decides to grace us with his presence ASAP! I just can't wait to meet him , not to mention I am tired of having a basketball in my belly :) We went out to dinner and some woman decided to tell me I was huge and that I looked like I was about to pop... Thaaaanks! A word to the wise... the word HUGE really isn't flattering to a 9 month pregnant woman! Okthxbye!

Have a good weekend!

Since it is Friday...

I thought I would share the hilarity of a 37 1/2 week pregnant woman trying to shave her legs.

Picture this: A steaming hot shower, a beautiful new razor, and moisturizing shaving cream.

I step inside the nice warm shower. Look down and see... half of my leg. Because I am so small my belly covers my thigh. But at this stage in the game, I am determined folks! All kinds of people are gonna be staring down there, and you better believe I am NOT having hairy legs!

I bend down ever so gracefully, ok, who am I kidding, I squat, barely grabbing the bottle before I run out of breath and pass out in the shower, knocking myself unconscious. Grab the razor and begin "preparing." I put my big toe on the lip of the shower (the only thing that helps raise my leg at this point) and slather with cream. This sounds like an easy enough job, however, the lip is so small, I have to teeter and balance, as not to fall on my ass, and cut my lip, because, did I mention, I have the razor in my mouth, so I am not doing some cirque de solei move to grab it.

As mentioned before, the only thing I can see at this point, is my calf and foot, I proceed to dodge the water, shave and balance all in one. I must say, I think I could join the circus at this point. Then... I proceed to the other leg.

And this, my freaders, is a day in the life of a VERY pregnant person. Still desperately waiting for this little man to exit... gracefully!

Have a wonderful Friday and maybe sometime this weekend we will have a post that says... HE'S HEEEEEERRREE!

1 Centimeter, People!!

Yesterday, was a pretty frusterating day, to be honest. I woke up at around 3 am, with really painful contractions. I really didn't think anything of it, I just went back to sleep (the best I could). Then I headed to the doc with hubs, and while sitting there, the contractions were non stop. They were in my back, my belly and all the way up to my breast bone, and they were painful. That lasted for about 2 hours, and then they calmed down.

We went home, had some lunch and I just relaxed on the couch. For the next 2 hours, however, they continued and were stronger and stronger each time. My water hadn't broken and no other signs of labor were apparent so I was leary, but called my doc anyway. I told him the situation and that I thought they were about 5-8 min apart, painfull and that it had been happening for a good 2hrs.

He sent me directly to the hospital. On the way there, they shut down the highway (which is awesome when you think you're in labor!) so we waited in traffic and finally got the hospital an hour later.

Once their the routine was commenced and they checked me. ONE CENTIMETER (which in the birthing world is nothing, but it does mean my body is preparing and I am really having contractions). They watched me for an hour, check again and.... nothing. The contractions were happening, however, they were too irregular and I had not dialted any further.

I was sent home and told to relax.

Ok, here is the thing, I know I am axious, but I am NO freaking hypocondriac. I really am trying to count. The damn things were happening for hours. So... my new solution is if my water breaks or if I see blood, or if my little man doesn't move (as normal) then I will head to the doctor. Otherwise, I am going to sit my happy ass home until I am crying on the couch and can't stand the pain! I don't care if hubs has to pull over the car and deliver this baby by himself!

It is just getting so frusterating!

Wordless Wednesday

Here are some additions to Brady's nursery :)

On the baby front: I cannot thank all of you enough for saying such sweet prayers so that my little man will make an appearence! I have been having contractions (that are seriously painful) as of last night at 5pm. They are not regular, but I am hoping they get stronger and more regular!

I am 37 weeks today, which means that if your baby arrives now, his lungs should be fully mature and ready to adjust to life outside the womb, even though your due date is still three weeks away. Your baby weighs 6 1/3 pounds and measures a bit over 19 inches, head to heel (like a stalk of Swiss chard). Many babies have a full head of hair at birth, with locks from 1/2 inch to 1 1/2 inches long. But don't be surprised if your baby's hair isn't the same color as yours. Dark-haired couples are sometimes thrown for a loop when their children come out as blonds or redheads, and fair-haired couples have been surprised by Elvis look-alikes. And then, of course, some babies sport only peach fuzz.

Have a wonderful Wednesday!!

Anxiously Waiting!!!

Eeek! I am so anxious for my little man to come! I want to meet him so badly! I can't wait to see what he looks like and what his personality is like and so much more! I have moved all my bags and Boppy and body pillow into the "children and creativity corner" of my house (as per Feng Shui) so that maybe I can focus the ch'i and have him come... NOW! :D

On the health front:

Saw the doc yesterday and he said nothing has really changed. My belly is measuring 37 inches (which is supposed to coralate with what week you are) and I haven't gained any more weight. Still holding a strong 137lbs. He will start with the pelvic exams (to see if I am dialted or if my cervix has dropped) next week. We will be sure and keep you posted!

As for me, well I feel a little weird this morning. My belly kind of hurts all over, and I have a pretty bad back ache? Not really sure what that is about? I think hubs said his stomach hurt too, but he thinks it is sympathy contractions! :) We are going on 3 days with no medicine so it COULD be contractions (oh Please GOD, Please, Please, Please!!!!)

So my dear freaders, I ask you today, to say one tiny prayer that Mr Brady will come as soon as possible! Preferrably... today. :D Did I mention patience is not a virtue I own??!

Have a wonderful Tuesday! Ciao, Ciao!