Today is beautiful, again. The sun is shining, birds are singing, Dylan is being cute. We went to the park with Emma and the boys this morning, and they joined us for lunch and cartoons after. Dylan had a fantastic nap, and I got some good sleep as well. The only frustrating part of today is that I am still freakin' pregnant! 3 days overdue now, and I am feeling it!
After managing to avoid the pregnant "waddle" for most of my pregnancy (except when first standing up and starting to walk), I have now developed it. My body is just so big and unwieldy, and I have to swing my hips out funny just to walk.
Martin didn't get that job he interviewed for yesterday. You, dear blog readers, got to find out before Martin did. They posted a letter through our door with the news. However, the guy who interviewed him seemed genuinely disappointed that it wasn't Martin. He wrote a personal note on the bottom of the letter--very nice little note, too. But if Martin does get shutdown work, it's better this way. He was really in a quandry about what to do if he got offered both. I know he'll be disappointed, though. He's been working so hard to get stuff done and get more work. Nobody works harder than my husband!
Well, tomorrow is Mothering Sunday, and I am preparing myself for a disappointing day. Last year, my FIRST mother's day, Martin didn't get anything for me. I actually spent my morning throwing together a last minute mother's day gift for HIS mom, as he didn't get anything for her either. Hopefully it goes better this year, but I'm not holding my breath. It's going to be a busy one at church with the Primary children singing in Sacrament meeting and making cards during sharing time. But, Newbie and weather permitting, we are going to go for a picnic with the Gilbert/Priestley clan at Hubbards Hills, near Louth. Personally, I'd rather go to the hospital and have a baby. What a perfect mother's day gift!
Anyway, must get dinner started since we are doing a video call with mom and dad today instead of tomorrow. Pork chops for dinner--but I don't know how I'm cooking them. It's hard to be creative when you are cooking three meals a day, 7 days a week. I'm bored of it!
Saturday, March 21, 2009
Friday, March 20, 2009
To pee or not to pee...
That definitely is the question, and the answer is definitely to pee. Not me, the heavily pregnant one, though. Dylan did his first number in the toilet tonight, and much celebrating resulted. I seriously thought Martin was going to either cry or burst with pride--maybe both!
That has been the icing on the cake of an otherwise lovely day. Yesterday Martin and I spent the evening over at the Mundays' house, and they said they'd just keep Dylan overnight. Martin forced me to let them, and we had a great nights' sleep. Dylan was home at around 9:15, down for a nap around 11:30, and he slept for just over two hours. I slept for about an hour and 15 minutes of that, and it was SUPER sleep! The only downside of the day is that we had to take him in to the hospital for more blood tests (a follow up from his weird spots), and it took longer than expected since they couldn't get a vein the first 4 times they tried.
The little munchkin is in bed now, though he's still awake and fussing a little bit. Martin is going to go out delivering Kleeneze brochures and then we are going to snuggle up on the sofa and eat icecream. And pray for a miracle that involves me going in to labor as soon as possible.
Martin had a job interview this morning, and apparently it went very well. He's also talked to the HR supervisor with the company doing the shutdown on Conoco next month and apparently he's at the top of the list. He was the first one to get his application in, so it's looking good.
Seriously, if I go in to labor tonight it will make today a wonderful pregnancy day!
That has been the icing on the cake of an otherwise lovely day. Yesterday Martin and I spent the evening over at the Mundays' house, and they said they'd just keep Dylan overnight. Martin forced me to let them, and we had a great nights' sleep. Dylan was home at around 9:15, down for a nap around 11:30, and he slept for just over two hours. I slept for about an hour and 15 minutes of that, and it was SUPER sleep! The only downside of the day is that we had to take him in to the hospital for more blood tests (a follow up from his weird spots), and it took longer than expected since they couldn't get a vein the first 4 times they tried.
The little munchkin is in bed now, though he's still awake and fussing a little bit. Martin is going to go out delivering Kleeneze brochures and then we are going to snuggle up on the sofa and eat icecream. And pray for a miracle that involves me going in to labor as soon as possible.
Martin had a job interview this morning, and apparently it went very well. He's also talked to the HR supervisor with the company doing the shutdown on Conoco next month and apparently he's at the top of the list. He was the first one to get his application in, so it's looking good.
Seriously, if I go in to labor tonight it will make today a wonderful pregnancy day!
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Dylan's day with Nanna...
We went to the Humber Bridge viewing area yesterday and took advantage of the gorgeous English spring weather (seriously--it was really nice. Jackets off and everything!). We went to the duck ponds, where Dylan spent the majority of his time trying to climb into the pond with all the ducks. Good thing Christine was there, because I couldn't have kept up with the little guy. He runs really fast, and had a good time chasing the ducks that were on dry land as well as the ones who were swimming!
We also played on the small playground they have there. Dylan loves going for horsie rides, and this horse was no exception.
We all enjoyed a lovely stroll along the paths by the ponds, where Dylan picked daisies, played with seed pods, and felt the sticky buds on the trees. He learned a few new words (like "grass") and took frequent little rest stops, like this one.
And now, my favorite picture of the day! Nanna taught Dylan to be quiet so he wouldn't scare the birds, and "shhh" was definitely the word of the day. They had such a wonderful time together, and I enjoyed watching them play and run and explore. Dylan adores his nanna, and she is crazy about him, too!
Belly pics, 40 weeks...
Well, here we are at full term now. Term + 1 to be exact. I saw the midwife today, and all is normal and fine. In happy news, I am still (just barely) on the charts with fundal height--no extra growth there in the last week. Getting tired of this pregnancy thing, but the prospect of 10 more days is at least bearable at the minute as I am mostly sleeping at night again and Dylan's whining days seem to be done for now. And I am trying to enjoy the little things that will disappear once I have the baby--relishing not having to wear a nursing bra, for one!
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
D-day...
Well, today is the big day. I am officially "due," and I am still waiting. But Dylan is making sure I don't just sit around feeling sorry for myself. We're having a good day so far--been to stay and play, had a lovely nap, and waiting for nanna to come over and go to the park with us. He's back to his normal angelic self after three days of misery and whining and we are currently enjoying a little snuggle on the sofa.
Martin has been putting in extra hours at the Place this week. Karen's dad isn't well and she's taken the last three days off to be with him. Plus, Julia and Col are going to be opeining on Friday nights now and so Martin will be doing an extra 5 hours a week anyway. I'm not thrilled about the Friday nights, especially because Martin only has Sundays off anyway (and with 3 hours of church it's hardly a day off) but we need the money. I just wish he didn't have to work such crappy hours to get it!
Christine is here now--we're off to enjoy the sunshine. I will be posting 40 week belly pictures later today or tomorrow. Let me tell you, it's impressive!
Martin has been putting in extra hours at the Place this week. Karen's dad isn't well and she's taken the last three days off to be with him. Plus, Julia and Col are going to be opeining on Friday nights now and so Martin will be doing an extra 5 hours a week anyway. I'm not thrilled about the Friday nights, especially because Martin only has Sundays off anyway (and with 3 hours of church it's hardly a day off) but we need the money. I just wish he didn't have to work such crappy hours to get it!
Christine is here now--we're off to enjoy the sunshine. I will be posting 40 week belly pictures later today or tomorrow. Let me tell you, it's impressive!
Monday, March 16, 2009
The grass is always greener...
Dylan woke up early this morning, and he was incredibly grumpy. I was feeling all heavily pregnant and sorry for myself, especially since Martin gave me a long to-do list, it's grocery shopping day, and it's laundry day, which means multiple trips up and down the stairs. I was tired and short with Dylan and pretty much a mean mommy all around.
Now for a little background info...
I don't know if I've mentioned my neighbor, Georgina. George has twins girls, Phoebe and Eliza, who are just a few weeks younger than Dylan. We've become friends since she moved in, and I really like her. We're the same age and get along really well. Her partner, Mark, left her and the girls about 6 weeks ago, and she's been struggling a lot. Managing, but struggling. She's come over a few times to visit, and I've gone over there, and we've talked a little bit about him leaving and how she's coping.
Today, as I was sitting in the dining room having lunch with Dylan, I heard some really loud noises coming from her house. It sounded like screaming, hysterical crying, and things hitting the wall. I debated for the whole meal what I should do. I wondered if Mark had come over and they were having a fight, and I didn't want to intrude. But I hadn't heard the girls crying at all, and I got pretty concerned. So I did something that was really hard for me to do--especially in England where people don't involve themselves unless invited. After lunch, I took Dylan over to see her.
George was in an awful state. Her eyes were red and puffy from crying, mascara running down her face and sobbing. Worse, she was alone. There was no fight--she just lost it. The girls were fine, playing in the front room and watching CBeebies, but George was NOT fine. Turns out, Mark came over on Saturday to visit the girls and they got in a fight then. She found out that he's already started seeing someone else, and that he's been saying terrible things about her to all their mutual friends.
She wasn't going to let me in. I know it. But I pushed my way in her door anyway to see if there was anything I could do. I felt so useless--all I could do was hug her and tell her that she would be ok--that she wasn't alone. She just kept saying it over and over again, that she felt so alone and didn't even want to go on. I tried to tell her what a great job she was doing of taking care of the girls on her own. I tried to help. All I can do is hope that some of it was sinking in.
I had been there for about 20 minutes when George's mum came over. She had calmed down quite a bit by then--not sure if she had already called her, but she was sure welcome. I left then so she could be with her mother and they could talk.
When Dylan and I came home, I found that my bad mood had disappeared. I paused for a minute and gave my son big cuddles against my huge pregnant belly and said a silent prayer of thanks for my husband and son and expected arrival. Someone always has it worse than you do--no matter what--and I am so blessed to have all that I do. I'm not going to take it for granted for quite some time!
Now for a little background info...
I don't know if I've mentioned my neighbor, Georgina. George has twins girls, Phoebe and Eliza, who are just a few weeks younger than Dylan. We've become friends since she moved in, and I really like her. We're the same age and get along really well. Her partner, Mark, left her and the girls about 6 weeks ago, and she's been struggling a lot. Managing, but struggling. She's come over a few times to visit, and I've gone over there, and we've talked a little bit about him leaving and how she's coping.
Today, as I was sitting in the dining room having lunch with Dylan, I heard some really loud noises coming from her house. It sounded like screaming, hysterical crying, and things hitting the wall. I debated for the whole meal what I should do. I wondered if Mark had come over and they were having a fight, and I didn't want to intrude. But I hadn't heard the girls crying at all, and I got pretty concerned. So I did something that was really hard for me to do--especially in England where people don't involve themselves unless invited. After lunch, I took Dylan over to see her.
George was in an awful state. Her eyes were red and puffy from crying, mascara running down her face and sobbing. Worse, she was alone. There was no fight--she just lost it. The girls were fine, playing in the front room and watching CBeebies, but George was NOT fine. Turns out, Mark came over on Saturday to visit the girls and they got in a fight then. She found out that he's already started seeing someone else, and that he's been saying terrible things about her to all their mutual friends.
She wasn't going to let me in. I know it. But I pushed my way in her door anyway to see if there was anything I could do. I felt so useless--all I could do was hug her and tell her that she would be ok--that she wasn't alone. She just kept saying it over and over again, that she felt so alone and didn't even want to go on. I tried to tell her what a great job she was doing of taking care of the girls on her own. I tried to help. All I can do is hope that some of it was sinking in.
I had been there for about 20 minutes when George's mum came over. She had calmed down quite a bit by then--not sure if she had already called her, but she was sure welcome. I left then so she could be with her mother and they could talk.
When Dylan and I came home, I found that my bad mood had disappeared. I paused for a minute and gave my son big cuddles against my huge pregnant belly and said a silent prayer of thanks for my husband and son and expected arrival. Someone always has it worse than you do--no matter what--and I am so blessed to have all that I do. I'm not going to take it for granted for quite some time!
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Calling all mothers...
Needing some parenting advice--especially from mothers with sons. I know that there is no "right" age to start potty training. I also know that boys are usually much slower at it than girls. But Dylan has started staying dry for most of the day and squatting and peeing as soon as his diaper is taken off. He's been doing it for about two weeks now, and I'm wondering if this means he is ready to start trying to use the potty. I know that the peeing when the diaper is removed is NOT just a reaction to cold air as he has never done that--not even as a newborn. I also know that urine really removes a lot of ground-in dirt from linoleum.
On Saturday I missed something strange about not having kids--leftovers for breakfast. I used to enjoy left over curry or pizza or meatballs for breakfast, but now I cook oatmeal for the family most mornings because I know that Dylan needs a good breakfast. I miss Chicken Dhansak for my morning meal!
Oh, and by the way, I still haven't had Newbie. Just thought I'd let you all know.
On Saturday I missed something strange about not having kids--leftovers for breakfast. I used to enjoy left over curry or pizza or meatballs for breakfast, but now I cook oatmeal for the family most mornings because I know that Dylan needs a good breakfast. I miss Chicken Dhansak for my morning meal!
Oh, and by the way, I still haven't had Newbie. Just thought I'd let you all know.
New church clothes...
Dylan wore one of his new outfits to church today--he looked so handsome!
Dylan had a great time on his walk with Daddy, Grandad, and Smudge (Nanna and Grandad's springer spaniel)
My growing boy...
Martin took Dylan to the park last week, and they had a great time! Dylan loves going down the slide head first--he's fearless!
"Kick" is one of Dylan's favorite words, and one of his favorite things to do!
Dylan and Esaias enjoy some telly together.
Nathan Munday, cheeky monkey
Saturday, March 14, 2009
No baby yet...
No sign of the little tyke, but I'm not too surprised. After all, D day isn't until Wednesday. But I AM totally ready to have the baby now, as Martin and I did my belly cast last night. I'm sitting and looking at it now, and MAN is it impressive. It really is amazing how a woman's body can stretch to accommodate a growing fetus. Amazing and scary. I have to trim the edges of the cast, and then I'm going to compare Newbie and Dylan's casts. I think I may be slightly bigger now than I was with Dylan. It just didn't catch me up until the last two weeks.
I also have my 39 week belly pics to post, but I'm waiting for two reasons. The first is that we are going to Caitlin and Esaias's birthday party tonight and I wanted to post pictures from that. The second is that I have actually gotten some stretch marks this time, and I'm not too keen to show those off. I thought I'd be ok since I only got some tiny white ones last time and those didn't appear until AFTER my due date. These ones still aren't that bad, but they're certainly not pretty. Oh well--I know that they'll eventually fade and be less noticeable. And they're worth it to have a beautiful new baby.
Dylan had a cranky day yesterday--I think he's getting some more teeth. Once his back bottom teeth are in, we should be set until he starts losing them for permanent teeth. I'm looking forward to that. It's so hard when he is in a bad mood, simply because it is so rare. I am used to having a happy, sunny little man and struggle when he whines all day (though I still love him to bits).
At any rate, we've had a good day today. We drove in to Scunthorpe first thing this morning for the Primary activity. I intended to go in early and do some shopping, but alas, it wasn't to be. I'm next to useless at the activities what with chasing Dylan all over the place in my heavily pregnant state, but i go anyway as a show of moral support to the presidency. Dylan ran around like a mad man and had his lunch and loads of fruit while we were there. He fell asleep on the drive home, but obligingly stayed asleep when we got home. This meant that I also got a nap. It's only half an hour until the birthday party, and that should be good fun as well. It's a disco, and Dylan loves to dance. Christine was going to come over for a visit, but we've not been home enough for her to come over. We're at her house for dinner tomorrow anyway, so she'll get her fill of Dylan then.
I actually need to bake some brownies for the party, so I must dash. But I promise the pictures are coming soon. I'll overcome my shame about the stretch marks and suck it up and get it done. And I will keep everyone posted on the upcoming birth. Hopefully I will go into labor this weekend. Maybe getting my groove on at the disco will do the trick?
I also have my 39 week belly pics to post, but I'm waiting for two reasons. The first is that we are going to Caitlin and Esaias's birthday party tonight and I wanted to post pictures from that. The second is that I have actually gotten some stretch marks this time, and I'm not too keen to show those off. I thought I'd be ok since I only got some tiny white ones last time and those didn't appear until AFTER my due date. These ones still aren't that bad, but they're certainly not pretty. Oh well--I know that they'll eventually fade and be less noticeable. And they're worth it to have a beautiful new baby.
Dylan had a cranky day yesterday--I think he's getting some more teeth. Once his back bottom teeth are in, we should be set until he starts losing them for permanent teeth. I'm looking forward to that. It's so hard when he is in a bad mood, simply because it is so rare. I am used to having a happy, sunny little man and struggle when he whines all day (though I still love him to bits).
At any rate, we've had a good day today. We drove in to Scunthorpe first thing this morning for the Primary activity. I intended to go in early and do some shopping, but alas, it wasn't to be. I'm next to useless at the activities what with chasing Dylan all over the place in my heavily pregnant state, but i go anyway as a show of moral support to the presidency. Dylan ran around like a mad man and had his lunch and loads of fruit while we were there. He fell asleep on the drive home, but obligingly stayed asleep when we got home. This meant that I also got a nap. It's only half an hour until the birthday party, and that should be good fun as well. It's a disco, and Dylan loves to dance. Christine was going to come over for a visit, but we've not been home enough for her to come over. We're at her house for dinner tomorrow anyway, so she'll get her fill of Dylan then.
I actually need to bake some brownies for the party, so I must dash. But I promise the pictures are coming soon. I'll overcome my shame about the stretch marks and suck it up and get it done. And I will keep everyone posted on the upcoming birth. Hopefully I will go into labor this weekend. Maybe getting my groove on at the disco will do the trick?
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Family is everything...
We had a lovely visit with Martin's grandparents tonight! They came up for dinner, and I made Toad in the Hole--which turned out perfectly. I usually try to do a dessert if they are coming over, but I just wasn't up to it tonight. I'm sure they understand.
I really do adore Martin's family--all of them. They have been so good to me and have been so welcoming, loving, and understanding of the fact that they're all I've got over here. I do get frustrated with them sometimes, but it's mostly because I miss my family so much.
I'm feeling all mushy about my family tonight. Last night was a painful one, but Dylan was amazingly good all day and Martin has been great (as usual). I've loved spending time with my baby today, and I'm looking forward to the evening with my husband. I'm really looking forward to meeting my new little one. I am excited to have a tiny baby again (and even more excited to not be pregnant any more).
How does one girl get so lucky? I have the greatest little family in the whole world
I really do adore Martin's family--all of them. They have been so good to me and have been so welcoming, loving, and understanding of the fact that they're all I've got over here. I do get frustrated with them sometimes, but it's mostly because I miss my family so much.
I'm feeling all mushy about my family tonight. Last night was a painful one, but Dylan was amazingly good all day and Martin has been great (as usual). I've loved spending time with my baby today, and I'm looking forward to the evening with my husband. I'm really looking forward to meeting my new little one. I am excited to have a tiny baby again (and even more excited to not be pregnant any more).
How does one girl get so lucky? I have the greatest little family in the whole world
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Another busy week...
We seem to be filling our time quite well here in the Gilbert household. Monday was just another day, but we did go in to Hull and buy some new church clothes for Dylan--he really didn't have anything to wear on a Sunday. And yesterday it was our Relief Society dinner, plus a Primary meeting for me in the morning (it lasted a little over 2 hours-OUCH!). Tonight Martin has an Elders' Quorum meeting, which is being held at our house. Lewis is in the presidency, so he and Emma and the kids are coming over for dinner and just staying here. We'll eat dinner and get the kids to bed, then Emma and I will sit and do girlie stuff while the men have their meeting. Thursday involves a visit from the Gilbert grandparents, at which Grandad Gilbert will measure up the closet in the kids' room so he can make the doors. On Friday we are thinking of seeing what Jen and Howard are doing (want to squeeze in all the socializing we can before the baby is born) and maybe having them over to play games. Saturday, well, we don't have anything going on then. It would be a good day to have a baby!
Wow, just typing out our week has made me really tired. But, no rest for the wicked. I am going to go clean the bathrooms now. I hate having people around when the house is dirty, even though I know they will just mess the house up again. I can at least make sure it starts out clean, you know? Plus, if I deep clean now it will just be a quick tidy afterwards. I am making fajitas, so I also need to chop veggies and do all my prep so the beef can be marinating in chili and lime juice.
I really want to go back to bed!
Wow, just typing out our week has made me really tired. But, no rest for the wicked. I am going to go clean the bathrooms now. I hate having people around when the house is dirty, even though I know they will just mess the house up again. I can at least make sure it starts out clean, you know? Plus, if I deep clean now it will just be a quick tidy afterwards. I am making fajitas, so I also need to chop veggies and do all my prep so the beef can be marinating in chili and lime juice.
I really want to go back to bed!
Monday, March 09, 2009
Things are definitely looking up...
It's absolutely amazing what a good night's sleep will do for a girl. After spending one of the longest weeks of my life in a near-zombie state, I now feel prepared to go at least another 9 days until I have the baby!
Saturday was rough. After getting about 1 hour of sleep Friday night, Dylan wouldn't take a nap. So I got zero sleep during the day, which was bad!!! Then, while I was making dinner for my boys Dylan slipped on the skirting board for his nursery and banged his chin on the edge of the piano. He cut it pretty badly and spent the next 45 minutes or so sobbing and bleeding all over both of us. When he hadn't stopped bleeding 3 hours later, we decided we should take him to the emergency room. So we got him into his pajamas, packed his sippy cup full of milk, grabbed a few bed time books, and drove in to Scunny. 2 hours later, we came home. He didn't have to have stitches, thank goodness. They just cleaned him up and glued the cut. He has a big bruise all around the cut, as well. Poor kid looks like he's been in a fight as he already had a scratch on his eyelid where he whacked the coffee table on Friday night. But he's a trooper and is just fine now.
Martin was awesome yesterday. He prepared all three meals for us, and let me get a 2 hour nap. I needed it desperately, and felt much better for it. Then we went over to the in-laws' house and watched "Lost." They've been recording it for us since we don't have Sky any more and that's the channel it's being shown on. They had Dylan overnight so Martin and I could sleep in this morning, which we very gratefully did. And I got around 8 hours of sleep! That is why it is nap time and even though Dylan and I are both awake we are doing just fine. I'm tired, but not exhausted.
This morning was good, as well. I had an early midwife appointment (totally routine and boring, but I'll be seeing them again in just 10 days' time) and did my grocery shopping without Dylan. Martin got up after I left for my appointment and fixed some of the skirting board in the kids' room. Just one more length to go, and then we need to fill the nail holes and the gaps between the wall and board. Then it's a quick paint touch up (and a minor plaster repair job) and we're done. Just closet doors to go, and Martin's grandad is making those.
In midwife news, when they measured me this morning we discovered that I am officially off the charts. They contacted the hospital to see if the consultant wanted to see me again since this is obviously such a big baby. But I haven't heard back from them, and no news is good news. Right? There's nothing they can do about it though, even if they DO see me again, so I just have to be patient.
And that's the update. Nothing too exciting, but we're all doing well and are happy and healthy and staying busy.
Saturday was rough. After getting about 1 hour of sleep Friday night, Dylan wouldn't take a nap. So I got zero sleep during the day, which was bad!!! Then, while I was making dinner for my boys Dylan slipped on the skirting board for his nursery and banged his chin on the edge of the piano. He cut it pretty badly and spent the next 45 minutes or so sobbing and bleeding all over both of us. When he hadn't stopped bleeding 3 hours later, we decided we should take him to the emergency room. So we got him into his pajamas, packed his sippy cup full of milk, grabbed a few bed time books, and drove in to Scunny. 2 hours later, we came home. He didn't have to have stitches, thank goodness. They just cleaned him up and glued the cut. He has a big bruise all around the cut, as well. Poor kid looks like he's been in a fight as he already had a scratch on his eyelid where he whacked the coffee table on Friday night. But he's a trooper and is just fine now.
Martin was awesome yesterday. He prepared all three meals for us, and let me get a 2 hour nap. I needed it desperately, and felt much better for it. Then we went over to the in-laws' house and watched "Lost." They've been recording it for us since we don't have Sky any more and that's the channel it's being shown on. They had Dylan overnight so Martin and I could sleep in this morning, which we very gratefully did. And I got around 8 hours of sleep! That is why it is nap time and even though Dylan and I are both awake we are doing just fine. I'm tired, but not exhausted.
This morning was good, as well. I had an early midwife appointment (totally routine and boring, but I'll be seeing them again in just 10 days' time) and did my grocery shopping without Dylan. Martin got up after I left for my appointment and fixed some of the skirting board in the kids' room. Just one more length to go, and then we need to fill the nail holes and the gaps between the wall and board. Then it's a quick paint touch up (and a minor plaster repair job) and we're done. Just closet doors to go, and Martin's grandad is making those.
In midwife news, when they measured me this morning we discovered that I am officially off the charts. They contacted the hospital to see if the consultant wanted to see me again since this is obviously such a big baby. But I haven't heard back from them, and no news is good news. Right? There's nothing they can do about it though, even if they DO see me again, so I just have to be patient.
And that's the update. Nothing too exciting, but we're all doing well and are happy and healthy and staying busy.
Saturday, March 07, 2009
Torture...
Martin and I were discussing a book about Dick Cheney that he read a few weeks ago, and we got on the topic of the prison at Guantanemo (sp?) Bay. We were discussing the Geneva Convention rules on what does or does not count as "torture" (yes, we do discuss things like this sometimes--it's not always about baby poo) and we had a serious disagreement.
In order for interrogation techniques to be classed as torture, you have to make people think that their life is in jeopardy. If they don't believe they are going to die, it's not torture. By this definition, sleep deprivation is an acceptable method of interrogation. I disagree wholeheartedly.
If you are seriously sleep deprived, you don't necessarily believe you are going to die. But you kind of wish you would!
Sorry about the negativity. It follows closely on the heels of a very long night that didn't involve much sleep. And my dreams were very strange, melding into daydreaming musings on a film we just saw. So it pretty much feels like I got no sleep last night. It's a good thing I'm not a POW, because it would only take about 24 hours of sleep deprivation (not even "proper" torture) and I would spill my guts about everyone and everything!
Things are going well though, all things considered. I now have 11 days until my due date, and the pain in my pelvis hasn't been as bad the last few days. The baby had a quiet morning yesterday and I was a little bit concerned, but then had a very active night which included hiccups right when I was trying to get to sleep. It's been moving a lot again this morning. I am seeing the midwives on Monday and will be seen by the OB/GYN at the hospital in 2 weeks' time if I haven't had the baby by then. Still healthy--just exhausted.
I'm starting to get a little bit nervous about trying for a VBAC as this baby gets bigger and bigger. I keep thinking about how big Dylan was when he was born--I was seriously amazed that he actually fit inside me. How am I going to push a baby that big out? Scary! But I'm still going to try, of course.
Speaking of Dylan, he is GREAT! He had his first ever home made curry last night, and loved it. I made kheema aloo--a gorgeous dish with minced pork and potatoes cooked with cinnamon, cloves, garam masala, onions, cardamom pods, and tomatoes. It's not very spicy, but is very well seasoned and aromatic. Let me know if you want the recipe, because it's easy and delicious. Anyway, Dylan is back to eating pretty much anything you put in front of him again. That's such a relief, as I really don't want a picky eater. Christine came over and had dinner with us and then stayed with Dylan while we went to a movie. He loves his Nanna, and even calls her nanna now when he sees her. He also calls Laurence grandad and adores him as well. But don't be jealous, mom and dad. He also knows you from the pictures we look at all the time. He just can't say grandma or grandpa. We're working on it.
He is a little chatterbox--seriously! He copies almost everything we say, and it's seriously adorable. As I was watching him in the bath the other night, it also occured to me how coordinated he is now. When he reaches out for something, he always gets what he wants. His hand/eye coordination is remarkable for a child his age, and I'm not just saying that because he's mine. He's getting better every day at eating with his spoon and fork instead of his fingers. And we have started offering him choices of drinks and fruit since he can tell us if he wants water, juice, or milk and if he wants grapes or bananas. Apparently, giving your toddler choices is a good thing? Anyway, he likes it.
Martin is doing well also. Baseball season will be starting soon--next month, in fact. I think he's really looking forward to that. He is still only working part time, but has been getting a lot done on the house and has really stepped up the Kleeneze stuff. We are managing quite well at the minute, and should be good until the shutdown work starts. He's also applying for a few other positions here in town--part time stuff that he can fit around the Place. I let him sleep in this morning since I was wide awake anyway, and I think he really appreciated that.
Anyway, it's going to be a long day today. I think we'll see if Emma and the boys want to join us at the park this afternoon if the weather stays nice. I can hardly wait until nap time. Only 2 1/2 hours to go. Wish me luck!
In order for interrogation techniques to be classed as torture, you have to make people think that their life is in jeopardy. If they don't believe they are going to die, it's not torture. By this definition, sleep deprivation is an acceptable method of interrogation. I disagree wholeheartedly.
If you are seriously sleep deprived, you don't necessarily believe you are going to die. But you kind of wish you would!
Sorry about the negativity. It follows closely on the heels of a very long night that didn't involve much sleep. And my dreams were very strange, melding into daydreaming musings on a film we just saw. So it pretty much feels like I got no sleep last night. It's a good thing I'm not a POW, because it would only take about 24 hours of sleep deprivation (not even "proper" torture) and I would spill my guts about everyone and everything!
Things are going well though, all things considered. I now have 11 days until my due date, and the pain in my pelvis hasn't been as bad the last few days. The baby had a quiet morning yesterday and I was a little bit concerned, but then had a very active night which included hiccups right when I was trying to get to sleep. It's been moving a lot again this morning. I am seeing the midwives on Monday and will be seen by the OB/GYN at the hospital in 2 weeks' time if I haven't had the baby by then. Still healthy--just exhausted.
I'm starting to get a little bit nervous about trying for a VBAC as this baby gets bigger and bigger. I keep thinking about how big Dylan was when he was born--I was seriously amazed that he actually fit inside me. How am I going to push a baby that big out? Scary! But I'm still going to try, of course.
Speaking of Dylan, he is GREAT! He had his first ever home made curry last night, and loved it. I made kheema aloo--a gorgeous dish with minced pork and potatoes cooked with cinnamon, cloves, garam masala, onions, cardamom pods, and tomatoes. It's not very spicy, but is very well seasoned and aromatic. Let me know if you want the recipe, because it's easy and delicious. Anyway, Dylan is back to eating pretty much anything you put in front of him again. That's such a relief, as I really don't want a picky eater. Christine came over and had dinner with us and then stayed with Dylan while we went to a movie. He loves his Nanna, and even calls her nanna now when he sees her. He also calls Laurence grandad and adores him as well. But don't be jealous, mom and dad. He also knows you from the pictures we look at all the time. He just can't say grandma or grandpa. We're working on it.
He is a little chatterbox--seriously! He copies almost everything we say, and it's seriously adorable. As I was watching him in the bath the other night, it also occured to me how coordinated he is now. When he reaches out for something, he always gets what he wants. His hand/eye coordination is remarkable for a child his age, and I'm not just saying that because he's mine. He's getting better every day at eating with his spoon and fork instead of his fingers. And we have started offering him choices of drinks and fruit since he can tell us if he wants water, juice, or milk and if he wants grapes or bananas. Apparently, giving your toddler choices is a good thing? Anyway, he likes it.
Martin is doing well also. Baseball season will be starting soon--next month, in fact. I think he's really looking forward to that. He is still only working part time, but has been getting a lot done on the house and has really stepped up the Kleeneze stuff. We are managing quite well at the minute, and should be good until the shutdown work starts. He's also applying for a few other positions here in town--part time stuff that he can fit around the Place. I let him sleep in this morning since I was wide awake anyway, and I think he really appreciated that.
Anyway, it's going to be a long day today. I think we'll see if Emma and the boys want to join us at the park this afternoon if the weather stays nice. I can hardly wait until nap time. Only 2 1/2 hours to go. Wish me luck!
Thursday, March 05, 2009
Jen's birthday...
The birthday girl
Jen and Howard--so good together...
A few of the guests--Friends Rob and Marie from Peterborough
My dashing Martin--always a good sport!
Dylan's "new" bedroom...
Martin is in the process of doing the skirting board and unfortunately the dryer will have to stay until we do a little kitchen remodel, but the bedroom is looking brilliant, isn't it?
Belly pics...
Crikey, my belly is getting absolutely HUGE! Is it any wonder I'm in pain? Just think how big this baby must be. A repeat c-section is looking better and better!!!
Tuesday, March 03, 2009
Baby drama...
Dylan has weird little spots on his chest and back. I wasn't overly concerned about them, but Martin was concerned. He had me take Dylan to see our GP today, and we were referred to the hospital. Dr. Wellings said they just needed to do a few blood tests to rule out meningitis or a platelet problem, but we were there for 5 hours. Count them--FIVE!
We weren't even seen until we'd been there for 2 hours. Not fun when you are 9+ months pregnant and uncomfortable/exhausted at the best of times. But Martin is insisting that I remind everyone--it was completely free. Other than the high cost of petrol to drive us to the hospital and the fact that you have to pay to park in their parking lot. Once again, Martin is interjecting, it beats a $6000 bill.
To make a long story short, once again we have been told that there is nothing wrong with Dylan. At least not with the spots. They think it is most likely a viral infection of some kind that makes his small blood vessels weak and they burst easily. However, one of the doctors thinks she heard a slight murmur when she was listening to his heart. She thinks it's benign but has referred us to a specialist clinic just in case. She is also sending a recommendation to our GP that he refer us to a dermatologist for the skin problem.
So our afternoon and evening didn't go exactly as planned. But Dylan had a great time at thehospital because they had a fully loaded play room with lots of trucks, crayons, and a play kitchen. We were there for so long that we had to make an emergency run to Tesco to buy extra diapers, milk and pajamas. But he was good as gold, even when they drew blood. He even went to sleep in a regular bed instead of a crib.
We have an awesome son!
We weren't even seen until we'd been there for 2 hours. Not fun when you are 9+ months pregnant and uncomfortable/exhausted at the best of times. But Martin is insisting that I remind everyone--it was completely free. Other than the high cost of petrol to drive us to the hospital and the fact that you have to pay to park in their parking lot. Once again, Martin is interjecting, it beats a $6000 bill.
To make a long story short, once again we have been told that there is nothing wrong with Dylan. At least not with the spots. They think it is most likely a viral infection of some kind that makes his small blood vessels weak and they burst easily. However, one of the doctors thinks she heard a slight murmur when she was listening to his heart. She thinks it's benign but has referred us to a specialist clinic just in case. She is also sending a recommendation to our GP that he refer us to a dermatologist for the skin problem.
So our afternoon and evening didn't go exactly as planned. But Dylan had a great time at thehospital because they had a fully loaded play room with lots of trucks, crayons, and a play kitchen. We were there for so long that we had to make an emergency run to Tesco to buy extra diapers, milk and pajamas. But he was good as gold, even when they drew blood. He even went to sleep in a regular bed instead of a crib.
We have an awesome son!
Monday, March 02, 2009
Still waiting...
Still waiting to pop this kid out, and with ever dwindling patience. I know I'm not due for another 15 days, but it seriously feels as though I've been pregnant forever. 40 weeks is a long time. I really just want my boobs to stick out more than my belly (which should happen really soon after I give birth since I'll be breastfeeding again).
Martin and I tidied up under the stairs last night, and he also re-folded all the tops in my drawers (what a super star). I just kept looking at all the clothes I haven't been able to wear for months and thinking how nice it will be to get back into my regular stuff. Really, just how nice it will be to have my body back to myself. Pregnancy is hard work. Breastfeeding is hard work. Motherhood is hard work.
Things are going well though. Martin may be able to pick up a few more hours work every week starting late this month or early next, which will be nice. The house is looking good and, thanks to Saturday morning, is actually quite clean at the minute. Martin and I are happy in our relationship and Dylan is a super star. He's got more teeth coming in, but the only way it's affecting him is that he is waking up earlier and is a bit cranky in the mornings because of it.
Martin and I had an interesting conversation at dinner tonight. He said, "Have you ever noticed how time seems to go really slowly when you're with Dylan? Like you're playing with him and think you have been doing it for at least an hour, and you look up and see that only 15 minutes have passed?" Finally, he realises why I nearly went crazy for the first 4 months of Dylan's life. I spent every day alone with him for at least 9-10 hours, and it felt like 3 times longer than that! Better late than never with the understanding, and just in time for the birth of the new baby!
We had a really beautiful day today--absolutely perfect English spring weather. The sun was shining, there were a few fluffy white clouds in the sky, birds were singing, and the daffodils are about to bloom. We went for two walks today, all three of us, to collect Kleeneze brochures, so we all got plenty of fresh air. A few more days like this and I will start hanging my clothes on the washing line to dry instead of using the tumble dryer. It'll also be time to get the vegetables and flowers planted in the back garden.
Tonight we are watching Heroes and organizing the book shelf in the living room. I know it doesn't sound like a terribly exciting night, but I'm looking forward to it all the same. It's one more project that can get ticked off the list, and time spent with my wonderful husband watching a TV program that we both really enjoy. Plus, I think we are going to sell some of our books on Amazon. We have loads of them, and some of them we will never read again. I have a friend who's boyfriend made around £250 at Christmas time just by selling off his unwanted books, and the extra cash would be quite nice right now.
Anyway, Martin has returned with baking sheets. Did I mention that I am baking tiny Snickerdoodles for the Place to serve with their coffees at £3 per batch? Not much of a profit, as they are kind of labor intensive, but Martin and I cook up the leftover batter for ourselves so we have fresh cookies every two weeks which is nice. And the house smells yummy afterwards. So yeah, he's back now and I need to get cracking with the bookshelves so I can roll out and dip cookies during Heroes.
I have such a boring life. What does it say about me that I love it so much?
Martin and I tidied up under the stairs last night, and he also re-folded all the tops in my drawers (what a super star). I just kept looking at all the clothes I haven't been able to wear for months and thinking how nice it will be to get back into my regular stuff. Really, just how nice it will be to have my body back to myself. Pregnancy is hard work. Breastfeeding is hard work. Motherhood is hard work.
Things are going well though. Martin may be able to pick up a few more hours work every week starting late this month or early next, which will be nice. The house is looking good and, thanks to Saturday morning, is actually quite clean at the minute. Martin and I are happy in our relationship and Dylan is a super star. He's got more teeth coming in, but the only way it's affecting him is that he is waking up earlier and is a bit cranky in the mornings because of it.
Martin and I had an interesting conversation at dinner tonight. He said, "Have you ever noticed how time seems to go really slowly when you're with Dylan? Like you're playing with him and think you have been doing it for at least an hour, and you look up and see that only 15 minutes have passed?" Finally, he realises why I nearly went crazy for the first 4 months of Dylan's life. I spent every day alone with him for at least 9-10 hours, and it felt like 3 times longer than that! Better late than never with the understanding, and just in time for the birth of the new baby!
We had a really beautiful day today--absolutely perfect English spring weather. The sun was shining, there were a few fluffy white clouds in the sky, birds were singing, and the daffodils are about to bloom. We went for two walks today, all three of us, to collect Kleeneze brochures, so we all got plenty of fresh air. A few more days like this and I will start hanging my clothes on the washing line to dry instead of using the tumble dryer. It'll also be time to get the vegetables and flowers planted in the back garden.
Tonight we are watching Heroes and organizing the book shelf in the living room. I know it doesn't sound like a terribly exciting night, but I'm looking forward to it all the same. It's one more project that can get ticked off the list, and time spent with my wonderful husband watching a TV program that we both really enjoy. Plus, I think we are going to sell some of our books on Amazon. We have loads of them, and some of them we will never read again. I have a friend who's boyfriend made around £250 at Christmas time just by selling off his unwanted books, and the extra cash would be quite nice right now.
Anyway, Martin has returned with baking sheets. Did I mention that I am baking tiny Snickerdoodles for the Place to serve with their coffees at £3 per batch? Not much of a profit, as they are kind of labor intensive, but Martin and I cook up the leftover batter for ourselves so we have fresh cookies every two weeks which is nice. And the house smells yummy afterwards. So yeah, he's back now and I need to get cracking with the bookshelves so I can roll out and dip cookies during Heroes.
I have such a boring life. What does it say about me that I love it so much?
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