It looks like it is official. We are going to Snowdonia in just two weeks! We are so excited. I have been planning this trip for 2 months, but with the exercise and TDY we are just now getting the opportunity to even ask for some leave time, which worked out perfectly.
They told Mr. Man since he had worked the last three weeks STRAIGHT they would give him a four-day weekend. I thought, "Oh how perfect. We wanted to go to Wales or Cornwall anyway." He agreed, and we decided on dates to avoid different Halloween parties we were invited to and a decent gap before Ireland.
By the way, have I said that I love my husband's shop. Seriously, it is the best shop by far to us. Even though he works so much, I am completely content because they are so involved with everyone. I love it! Anyway, back to mini-vacation...
Originally, I wanted to go to a more beachy place in Wales. I wanted to get a cottage on the beach or in the middle of the sand dunes, which was near Swansea. I just wanted a nice, relaxing weekend with my two boys. Somehow that went through the wall because the place we were going to stay wanted a definite answer just a day before Mr. Man was approved for leave because someone else was asking for the property, too. In the end, it worked out because I had been researching a variety of areas. I even considered Scotland. If you know me, you know I always have a back up plan - sometimes multiple ones. Well, this is when it led us to Snowdonia.
As I was doing research, I just kept saying to myself "There is so much I want to do and I would really like to go for a week, and I would rather go without Buttons so we can do everything." So I kept trying to go towards somewhere else because this trip was for Buttons after all, but everywhere else I had the same attitude, but the most fun of things that even Buttons could do was in Snowdonia.
I thought with it being early in my pregnancy it would be the safest and easiest time for me to climb another mountain. Actually, the largest one in Great Britain. It was something we wanted to do, but I really thought I would have to wait until the baby was born. However, that is not the case, so it looks like we will get to climb it in a couple of weeks. Mr. Man wants to do some fishing, and I want to do some laying around the marshes, lakes, and rivers while our baby boy has wide open spaces to act like a puppy. Sounds relaxing and perfect if you ask me. There's a few cathedrals, castles, tons of mountains, fishing, white-water rafting, etc. Or we can just be lazy. Either way, it will be great!
The good thing is there is so much to do. Both relaxing and touristy. We are going to a mix of both since I have gotten majority of my energy back and can now eat just about anything and smell just about everything and not be affected. The first full day, we will probably climb because that is what we want to do the most. The second day we will go to a nearby town for the shopping and medieval/Victorian sites. Then we will come back and do some fishing and relaxing. The third day will be to do whatever we were not able to do that we wished we could do the day before, or climb another mountain. There is another mountain I would like to climb that is also nearby, but it will depend on how tired I am.
I plan to eat yummy fish since I am from marsh, lake, beach area myself. I know that it will not be anything close to what they have in Louisiana, but I am sure it will be refreshing!
Oh, and we will be staying in another self-catering cottage. We love these because they are like houses, we can cook for ourself, and our boy can come with us. We can sleep in late and make our own breakfast without missing breakfast at other places. They are perfect (for us) and most of the time cheaper than hotels/B&B's. Ok, only sometimes, but if you do your research, it could be all the time. We definitely got a good deal on ours and it sleeps 6 to 8 people.
We are excited and can not wait!!
Thursday, September 30, 2010
The Sweetest Thing:
Remember how I told you Mr. Man tries to listen to the baby with his stethoscope? It did not work because I was not far enough along, so I bought him a doppler device.
We got it in yesterday. I waited patiently for him to get off of work for us to try it out. I am normally in bed by the time he gets home, but this time I made sure I was awake. I was still in bed, but awake. I brought the doppler upstairs with me, so when he got ready for bed it was right there. He did what he needed to do and crawled in bed, and we listened to our baby's heart beat away. It was the sweetest little thing ever. And I mean this!
Mr. Man was so tired from work that he just laid in the bed with the headphones on, and I held the doppler on my belly where the baby was. He was not sleeping, but he was relaxing with his eyes closed and all. Every time the baby would move Mr. Man would say, "He's trying to run away again." So I would move the doppler because the baby just kept going in a circle. Mr. Man would say, "There he is." And just lay back and relax again. It was so darn adorable.
Of course, I got a turn. I tried to count the heart beats per minute, and I think I got around 146. I only did it once, but I plan on doing it again the next time we use the doppler (which I'm sure will be in a few minutes or tonight) just to see if that was a close estimate. It was awesome to hear, and it's nice to be able to do it when you want and in the comfort of your own home.
Of course, Mr. Buttons got his chance, too. He just perked up his ears, then laid on his stomach all attentive. He was moving his head side to side, like dogs do when you talk to them and move your head. It was so funny and so adorable. But he does not like to talk on the phone or have anything with noise on his ears, so it did not last long. Long enough, though.
Seriously, I have to say that this first time doing it is one of the best memories I will have with this baby. I think Mr. Man, too. Since the first doctor's appointment was more shocking than relaxing and enjoying even though it was pretty awesome, too.
I just wanted to share this memory with you all!
Happy Thursday! Happy Pay Day!
We got it in yesterday. I waited patiently for him to get off of work for us to try it out. I am normally in bed by the time he gets home, but this time I made sure I was awake. I was still in bed, but awake. I brought the doppler upstairs with me, so when he got ready for bed it was right there. He did what he needed to do and crawled in bed, and we listened to our baby's heart beat away. It was the sweetest little thing ever. And I mean this!
Mr. Man was so tired from work that he just laid in the bed with the headphones on, and I held the doppler on my belly where the baby was. He was not sleeping, but he was relaxing with his eyes closed and all. Every time the baby would move Mr. Man would say, "He's trying to run away again." So I would move the doppler because the baby just kept going in a circle. Mr. Man would say, "There he is." And just lay back and relax again. It was so darn adorable.
Of course, I got a turn. I tried to count the heart beats per minute, and I think I got around 146. I only did it once, but I plan on doing it again the next time we use the doppler (which I'm sure will be in a few minutes or tonight) just to see if that was a close estimate. It was awesome to hear, and it's nice to be able to do it when you want and in the comfort of your own home.
Of course, Mr. Buttons got his chance, too. He just perked up his ears, then laid on his stomach all attentive. He was moving his head side to side, like dogs do when you talk to them and move your head. It was so funny and so adorable. But he does not like to talk on the phone or have anything with noise on his ears, so it did not last long. Long enough, though.
Seriously, I have to say that this first time doing it is one of the best memories I will have with this baby. I think Mr. Man, too. Since the first doctor's appointment was more shocking than relaxing and enjoying even though it was pretty awesome, too.
I just wanted to share this memory with you all!
Happy Thursday! Happy Pay Day!
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Recipe: Broccoli Cheese and Potato Soup
Soups have been a comfort food for me since the weather has started to get all rainy and chilly. Soups have also been one of those foods that I can eat and eat and eat and never get tired of while pregnant. I thought I would share this recipe of a Broccoli, Cheese, and Potato Soup. It is absolutely delicious!
The Ingredients:
- 1/3 cup chopped onion
- 1/3 cup chopped celery
- 2 tablespoons butter or 2 tablespoons margarine
- 1/4 cup flour
- 4 cups diced peeled potatoes
- 2 1/2 cups chopped broccoli, steamed until crisp tender
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups skim milk
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1 dash paprika
- salt
- minced fresh parsley, optional
The Directions:
- In a large saucepan, saute onion and celery in butter over medium heat until tender.
- Add flour, pepper, salt, and paprika and stir until smooth.
- Add broth, milk, and potatoes, stirring constantly until it boils and thickens.
- Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
- Stir in cheese and cooked broccoli and cook over low until cheese is melted and soup is heated through.
- Sprinkle individual servings with parsley if desired.
If you try this, you must let me know how you like it!!
Things That Inspire Me: 2
I started this to find 10 things that inspire me for the 101 things to accomplish in 1001 days. I have been listing them one by one because I thought that it would be nice for be to be able to elaborate on them a little more for future reference.
I did the first post about a month and a half ago on Childhood Obesity and the stereotype that America gets over the Fast Food and such. You can check it out here!
The second one that inspires me is Teenage Moms.
I know this is a very controversial topic, and maybe I should say "Young Moms" because I know the stereotype that Teen Moms get. After all, the ones that actually inspire me are the ones that grow up quickly after realizing they are pregnant, or the ones that are in their low 20s (like me!) but still got a surprise.
To me, accidents happen. Things happens to each and every one of us, and it is what we do with it that truly matters. Things happen for a reason, whether it is unknown or not, it happens. Since I have become pregnant, I have gotten many new moms or soon-to-be-moms send me emails and introduce me to their video blogs on YouTube or their blogs right here on Blogger or Word Press. I have came across some very special Moms that now own my heart. As I watch their videos and read their blogs, I soon was finding more and more Teen Moms. Out of the ones I watched, over 80% of them were very mature and quickly growing up. You could see it in their videos that they shared with the world. Some go as far as making their baby's clothes, food, cloth diapering, going to school, finishing high school, finding jobs, moving out of their parents house, etc. It's very inspiring for someone like me that is also young. To know that anyone can be thrown an awkward situation and still make the best of it.
Majority of these girls also had awesome personalities. It showed their videos and the comments that they would receive. Many of them were not the insecure type or the odd ball that did not fit in at school or lived in poverty and this happened. They are every day completely 100% confident girls with boyfriends that are supportive and carry a huge confidence even in their situation. Very positive people.
As I was watching these videos and reading about their lives, I began to think about the show Teen Mom and 16 & Pregnant. Now, I do not watch these shows often. I think I have seen them like 4 times, each maybe twice. But to be honest, those girls on those shows are not always this type. Yes, I will say there was a couple that seemed to be level-headed, but none the way these girls are.
So, that is when I realized that they were inspiring me and my outlook on my situation and life. They impacted the way I see our future and the things I want for our child. It showed me that even when accidents happen, anyone can still make a difference. At 22 years old, married for over 4 years, financially stable, with our own house to live in, I could only think about how good I have it. And how I should never take advantage of anything that I have. Yes, I worked to be where I am, but somewhere down the line I was very fortunate and blessed with my life. The same goes for everyone else if they choose to see it that way.
I wish I describe in words these girls. I really can not. But I can tell you that they have inspired me to be the best Mom ever because they were able to do it even in the most surprising moment.
I did the first post about a month and a half ago on Childhood Obesity and the stereotype that America gets over the Fast Food and such. You can check it out here!
The second one that inspires me is Teenage Moms.
I know this is a very controversial topic, and maybe I should say "Young Moms" because I know the stereotype that Teen Moms get. After all, the ones that actually inspire me are the ones that grow up quickly after realizing they are pregnant, or the ones that are in their low 20s (like me!) but still got a surprise.
To me, accidents happen. Things happens to each and every one of us, and it is what we do with it that truly matters. Things happen for a reason, whether it is unknown or not, it happens. Since I have become pregnant, I have gotten many new moms or soon-to-be-moms send me emails and introduce me to their video blogs on YouTube or their blogs right here on Blogger or Word Press. I have came across some very special Moms that now own my heart. As I watch their videos and read their blogs, I soon was finding more and more Teen Moms. Out of the ones I watched, over 80% of them were very mature and quickly growing up. You could see it in their videos that they shared with the world. Some go as far as making their baby's clothes, food, cloth diapering, going to school, finishing high school, finding jobs, moving out of their parents house, etc. It's very inspiring for someone like me that is also young. To know that anyone can be thrown an awkward situation and still make the best of it.
Majority of these girls also had awesome personalities. It showed their videos and the comments that they would receive. Many of them were not the insecure type or the odd ball that did not fit in at school or lived in poverty and this happened. They are every day completely 100% confident girls with boyfriends that are supportive and carry a huge confidence even in their situation. Very positive people.
As I was watching these videos and reading about their lives, I began to think about the show Teen Mom and 16 & Pregnant. Now, I do not watch these shows often. I think I have seen them like 4 times, each maybe twice. But to be honest, those girls on those shows are not always this type. Yes, I will say there was a couple that seemed to be level-headed, but none the way these girls are.
So, that is when I realized that they were inspiring me and my outlook on my situation and life. They impacted the way I see our future and the things I want for our child. It showed me that even when accidents happen, anyone can still make a difference. At 22 years old, married for over 4 years, financially stable, with our own house to live in, I could only think about how good I have it. And how I should never take advantage of anything that I have. Yes, I worked to be where I am, but somewhere down the line I was very fortunate and blessed with my life. The same goes for everyone else if they choose to see it that way.
I wish I describe in words these girls. I really can not. But I can tell you that they have inspired me to be the best Mom ever because they were able to do it even in the most surprising moment.
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Your Questions Answered: HELP!
I have gotten a lot of questions lately between people finding my blog and reading the past posts, and I guess they sparked some questions and curiousity. I have also gotten tons in my email. Since a lot of them seem to be common with a few people, I thought I would start answering those each day (or whenever) right here on my blog.
My question to you: I have started doing weekly videos of myself of my symptoms and progressions for our pregnancy, doctor's appointments, progression of the nursery, etc. This is something I always wanted to do to make a mini movie for our child. Would you guys like me to start sharing this with you or is video blogs too much?
My blog is about my personal life and what goes on. I want to keep it interesting without being too predictable because of the fact that I am so busy.
So what do you think - regular text blogs or video blogs occasionally?
My question to you: I have started doing weekly videos of myself of my symptoms and progressions for our pregnancy, doctor's appointments, progression of the nursery, etc. This is something I always wanted to do to make a mini movie for our child. Would you guys like me to start sharing this with you or is video blogs too much?
My blog is about my personal life and what goes on. I want to keep it interesting without being too predictable because of the fact that I am so busy.
So what do you think - regular text blogs or video blogs occasionally?
(Mil)ing It Over: PCS Edition
Hi guys!
First, I want to thank you all for hanging with me and the sweet, sweet comments and emails I have been getting. Seriously, emails galore!! I am trying to take the time to reply to each and every one of you so please be patient. If I do not make it to you all, please forgive me! I still love you, I promise!
Now, for (Mil)ing It Over.
This time around we are discussing our options of PCSing, where we would like to go and where we would like to avoid. Of course, nothing is guaranteed in the life of a military spouse, but it never stops any of us from hoping, wishing, dreaming, and maintaining!
I hope you all enjoy this quick video post.
Also, we would like to get our readers more involved, so if you have a topic or suggestion for something for us to do, please leave a comment on any our posts and we will get to it! Our Promise to you!
None of us claim to be a pro at the military lifestyle. This was created to be more personal with military spouses around the world and in the different branches. So don't be shy! You can even create your own post as to your views and opinions on what we discuss. We encourage you!
None of us claim to be a pro at the military lifestyle. This was created to be more personal with military spouses around the world and in the different branches. So don't be shy! You can even create your own post as to your views and opinions on what we discuss. We encourage you!
I hope you guys have a great rest of your week, and I look forward to hearing from you all.
Monday, September 27, 2010
Almost another whole week:
Seriously, it has been almost a whole week since my last post. I am slacking big time, and I apologize. I have so much I need to catch up on. For now, I will share the belly pictures that I promised last week. Please do forgive me!
Mr. Man is still working some long hours and has worked the last two weekends. With that said, they told him he may have to work this next weekend. He is already going on 3 weeks with zero days off. It sucks, but we get a "pat on the back" for it. They are giving us a 4 day weekend whenever we choose, so another trip here we come!!
So for now, here is the last 4 weeks of belly pictures.
Week 9
Week 10
Week 11
Week 12
So I know right about now you all are thinking, "Wow, she's going fast!" The truth is... I am growing super fast! But that's what happens when you loose your diet because of food aversions and stay sick in the gym. Like I have said before, I would not have it any other way. But I must say I do miss being able to run just a little or lift weights without having to take a 5 minute break in between. Hopefully, I will begin to even out now that I got the initial growth going.
So by viewing these pictures, I think I would say I "popped" at Week 10.
Oh, and I guess I should add that I have gained 8 lbs so far.
This Wednesday I will be 13 weeks based on the doctor's measuring, which is what I am going by on here.
And now I will throw in the 10 week ultrasound we had done. The baby was jumping around so much that it was so hard to get good pictures. We only got two, but the two we got are so precious. I'm in love already! And so is Mr. Man.
Side view of Baby C waving at us.
Front view! Too bad he/she is so small or else it would be perfect for finding out the sex.
Also, would like to mention that Mr. Man got a stethoscope a week or so ago. He has tried so hard to listen to the baby because I feel him/her quite often now. Mr. Man has tried with the stethoscope almost every day from the day we received it. But it is estimated that you can not hear the baby's heart beat with a stethoscope until about 18-20 weeks, so I decided to buy him a Doppler device. Hopefully, we will get it in soon, and we can listen to the baby as often as we want.
Until next time... :)
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Hello Bathroom! Goodbye Food.
It's official. I am saying Hi to the bathroom every 2 hours. Not due to morning sickness - thank goodness! But because the frequent urination has hit a high!
This is the third night in a row where I have slept for 3 to 4 hours, and I up 2 times during that time to use the bathroom. By the second time, I am hungry and wide awake. Maybe my body is preparing me for newborn feedings? Ok, joke. But seriously, it's kind of annoying. Although I would not trade it for the world.
I am wide awake for about 3 or so hours, which I use the bathroom nonstop, then I am back to bed for a few more hours. Then I am up for a few hours again, then back for a nap for a few hours. Not liking it at all as it messes with my day, but I am thankful I am not moody. At least not yet.
I am having major aversions to food. I never want to eat. EVER! I get so hungry, yet I hate to eat. I use to love my food. What happened? I miss it.
I also am now officially unable to sleep on my back and stomach. My stomach is so sore, and I feel like it is growing so fast. So fast that when Mr. Man saw me with my shirt off over the weekend he reacted in this way, "Holy crap, Mrs. Ma'am. Your belly is huge!" My reaction - some laughs here and there and a "Gee thanks." We both laughed about it, but I did warn him that I may not take that so lightly the next go around, so he better be prepared. Ha! Back to sleeping, Iam was a stomach sleeper. Now that it hurts to sleep on my stomach, I have tried my back. Fail. My stomach sinks in and with it sore, it hurts. I am successfully sleeping on my side, but I really, really, really need an awesome body pillow. I can no longer use Mr. Man because he makes me hot, like sweaty hot. It's horrible. I will be investing in a pregnancy pillow sooner than I thought.
I realized that I told you guys that I would have my next set of pictures up today, but I thought today was Wednesday. Well, it is Wednesday now, but I thought yesterday was Wednesday. My new weeks start on Wednesday, so I will take a picture today and have them posted as soon as possible!
This is the third night in a row where I have slept for 3 to 4 hours, and I up 2 times during that time to use the bathroom. By the second time, I am hungry and wide awake. Maybe my body is preparing me for newborn feedings? Ok, joke. But seriously, it's kind of annoying. Although I would not trade it for the world.
I am wide awake for about 3 or so hours, which I use the bathroom nonstop, then I am back to bed for a few more hours. Then I am up for a few hours again, then back for a nap for a few hours. Not liking it at all as it messes with my day, but I am thankful I am not moody. At least not yet.
I am having major aversions to food. I never want to eat. EVER! I get so hungry, yet I hate to eat. I use to love my food. What happened? I miss it.
I also am now officially unable to sleep on my back and stomach. My stomach is so sore, and I feel like it is growing so fast. So fast that when Mr. Man saw me with my shirt off over the weekend he reacted in this way, "Holy crap, Mrs. Ma'am. Your belly is huge!" My reaction - some laughs here and there and a "Gee thanks." We both laughed about it, but I did warn him that I may not take that so lightly the next go around, so he better be prepared. Ha! Back to sleeping, I
I realized that I told you guys that I would have my next set of pictures up today, but I thought today was Wednesday. Well, it is Wednesday now, but I thought yesterday was Wednesday. My new weeks start on Wednesday, so I will take a picture today and have them posted as soon as possible!
Monday, September 20, 2010
Survival:
Today, I started back at the gym throwing around a few weights. I forgot how much I miss the gym. I knew I missed the gym, but when I actually grabbed the weights, I was like "Ahhh, this feels so good." I did not want to stop.
Which means, I survived my first full day of the gym. I walked to the gym to get some light cardio in since I get so tired so easily. It would force me to walk back even being tired from working out. I did chest, a little legs, and a back exercise. I plan to do a little legs and back every other day to help keep them tone and my hip size down. I want my back to be strong because I know it will not be long, and it will start bothering me. Strengthening exercises is what I am doing for now, and it felt so good. I have to say my legs are dying right now, and I only did 3 weiny leg workouts! But at least I know I worked myself.
And I hate the "Are you fat or are you pregnant stare." It really gets on my nerves. But it is also quite humorous, too. I actually feel really confident being pregnant and in the gym. Even though I am at the stage of am I fat or am I pregnant, I know what I am and people that have seen me workout know. It's amazing the eyes you get, though. And I can now see why larger people or early pregnant people get discouraged by it.
Exciting news!! I felt the baby over the weekend. It was a full blown baby, too. It definitely was not like maybe it's baby, but I am not 100% sure. It was sooooo baby! And it felt awesome. It freaked me out, and I jumped at the first "kick." Then another followed not far after that one, and Mr. Man tried so hard to feel it. He wants to so bad, but I have feeling he has a few more weeks to wait until that happens. It was awesome!
We are also getting baby stuff in like crazy! I seriously appreciate everything that people are sending us. I got a pregnancy journal, stethoscope (specifically for Mr. Man), Pinocchio (Because people know I collect Disney movies), and the cutest little shirt like bib that says "I (heart) Take-Out" with an adorable Chinese take-out box and chop sticks. I received it all in the mail yesterday. I will try and get some footage of our gifts since we most likely will not be doing a shower that way people can see what others are sending us and how we adore and appreciate the things they are sending. My Mom told me she sent a couple of more boxes, too. So yay, for more baby stuff! It's amazing how babies change the world. I am so excited!
Also, in baby news, we started cleaning out the nursery. Eeeekkkk!!! We are way beyond excited. I am seriously nesting. I have to be. Not sure what else it could be. Poor Mr. Man worked 12s all last week, and he had to work on Sunday, but I still put him to work on Saturday. It was an awesome day/night because we started putting up things we have been receiving. We also cleaned out the upstairs bathroom to make room so the baby could have his or her own little shelf of stuff. So now, we have little baskets in there that will be for his or her small toiletries and then we have already gotten some Johnsons&Johnsons Head to Toe wash and the Night Time Body Lotion, also gifts to us. YAY for all of that!!
I think we have officially decided on a crib and changing table set. We have also decided on bedding for either a boy or girl. And....... EXCITEMENT PEOPLE!!!-- We have picked our baby names (for now anyway)! Another "Eeeekkkk" could probably go here. Especially since we never could agree before on names. My registries are officially finished! And I think that is it for the beginning stage of preparing for a child. Amazing, the feeling of shopping for your first child. Seriously, I am beyond excited. And Mr. Man keeps asking when we are going to start buying things. I think he's a little anxious, too!
Question: Is there an awesome breastfeeding book you would recommend? I am looking to purchase one, and I have a few in mind, but I would like other's opinions if you have it. Thanks!
So, that's that on our Journey to Baby C!
Tomorrow I will hit my new week mark, so I will hopefully post up 4 pictures that you guys have not seen yet!
Which means, I survived my first full day of the gym. I walked to the gym to get some light cardio in since I get so tired so easily. It would force me to walk back even being tired from working out. I did chest, a little legs, and a back exercise. I plan to do a little legs and back every other day to help keep them tone and my hip size down. I want my back to be strong because I know it will not be long, and it will start bothering me. Strengthening exercises is what I am doing for now, and it felt so good. I have to say my legs are dying right now, and I only did 3 weiny leg workouts! But at least I know I worked myself.
And I hate the "Are you fat or are you pregnant stare." It really gets on my nerves. But it is also quite humorous, too. I actually feel really confident being pregnant and in the gym. Even though I am at the stage of am I fat or am I pregnant, I know what I am and people that have seen me workout know. It's amazing the eyes you get, though. And I can now see why larger people or early pregnant people get discouraged by it.
Exciting news!! I felt the baby over the weekend. It was a full blown baby, too. It definitely was not like maybe it's baby, but I am not 100% sure. It was sooooo baby! And it felt awesome. It freaked me out, and I jumped at the first "kick." Then another followed not far after that one, and Mr. Man tried so hard to feel it. He wants to so bad, but I have feeling he has a few more weeks to wait until that happens. It was awesome!
We are also getting baby stuff in like crazy! I seriously appreciate everything that people are sending us. I got a pregnancy journal, stethoscope (specifically for Mr. Man), Pinocchio (Because people know I collect Disney movies), and the cutest little shirt like bib that says "I (heart) Take-Out" with an adorable Chinese take-out box and chop sticks. I received it all in the mail yesterday. I will try and get some footage of our gifts since we most likely will not be doing a shower that way people can see what others are sending us and how we adore and appreciate the things they are sending. My Mom told me she sent a couple of more boxes, too. So yay, for more baby stuff! It's amazing how babies change the world. I am so excited!
Also, in baby news, we started cleaning out the nursery. Eeeekkkk!!! We are way beyond excited. I am seriously nesting. I have to be. Not sure what else it could be. Poor Mr. Man worked 12s all last week, and he had to work on Sunday, but I still put him to work on Saturday. It was an awesome day/night because we started putting up things we have been receiving. We also cleaned out the upstairs bathroom to make room so the baby could have his or her own little shelf of stuff. So now, we have little baskets in there that will be for his or her small toiletries and then we have already gotten some Johnsons&Johnsons Head to Toe wash and the Night Time Body Lotion, also gifts to us. YAY for all of that!!
I think we have officially decided on a crib and changing table set. We have also decided on bedding for either a boy or girl. And....... EXCITEMENT PEOPLE!!!-- We have picked our baby names (for now anyway)! Another "Eeeekkkk" could probably go here. Especially since we never could agree before on names. My registries are officially finished! And I think that is it for the beginning stage of preparing for a child. Amazing, the feeling of shopping for your first child. Seriously, I am beyond excited. And Mr. Man keeps asking when we are going to start buying things. I think he's a little anxious, too!
Question: Is there an awesome breastfeeding book you would recommend? I am looking to purchase one, and I have a few in mind, but I would like other's opinions if you have it. Thanks!
So, that's that on our Journey to Baby C!
Tomorrow I will hit my new week mark, so I will hopefully post up 4 pictures that you guys have not seen yet!
Saturday, September 18, 2010
Guest Post- (Sept. 18, 2010)
Since I have opened my blog up to guest bloggers, Holly contacted me as a new blogger to help her blog get going and to offer a little something, something to my readers. This post is absolutely amazing, and I hope you all enjoy it as much as I do! Please show her some love at her amazing blog! She is so sweet, and I promise you will not regret it!
Hello! My name is Holly, and I am the proud new(ish) owner of a blog that answers to the name of yourstrulyh. The Cajun Bombshell (and future momma) has been kind enough to open her little space to guests, and of course I jumped at the chance! I have loved reading about her "bump" updates ( how much would you love to start out with that FLAT of a tummy!?!?!) and hope I can contribute something worthwhile to her little corner.
Today, I want to talk to you about having Hard Conversations. You know the ones- money, love, awkward social situations, apologies. We've all HAD to initiate them, and we've all (ahem) tried to avoid them. Well, take it from me- you should stop doing that. You should stop doing that right now. Here's why:
The opportunity for my husband and I to go to Guatemala on a missions trip presented itself months ago. Having been to Central American twice, I was stoked. This was right up my alley. I am a girly-girl. Truly. But give me some old tennis shoes, a bottle of clean drinking water, and a ticket to a third world country, and I will meet you there.
Tim (my husband) was just feeling "fine" about the idea of going (his words, not mine).
Later, we received the payment schedule and the passport applications, and all that paperwork sat on the shelf collecting dust for weeks.
We might go. We would talk about it. Being the one who was slightly more "into" it, I knew it was my job to take the lead.
But I put it off. I did. I really and truly did. I put it off even more than going to the dentist. It was bad. I knew we would have to have Conversations. That's right. Conversations. Hard talks about money and taking time off work and Central American Tarantulas.
Last Sunday was the "Official Commitment Meeting." We needed a $600 deposit and the guts to decide to travel to a different country next summer.
So it left me scrambling...all over town trying to scrounge up the money (I have 2 very SMALL 'rainy day' savings accounts from before we got married...Tim knows about both). Had I just fessed up and been a good communicator instead of a big fat chicken, we could have talked months ago. We could have made a plan. Set a goal. We could have saved some cash.
Well, lesson learned. After an entire afternoon at various banks and one tear-filled conversation over dinner- we are going. Did I also mention that I felt the need to apologize? I mean, REALLY apologize...so I did (gulp!).
So, on this warm, Autumn Saturday, I want to tell you to TAKE COURAGE. Be brave. Be bold. Be humble. Go apologize. Go tell someone That Really Cool Story You Fear Might Be A Bit Silly. Go have *that* conversation. It's so much easier in the end. Trust me. I'll make you a deal. You have yours and I'll go have mine...which has to do with none other than ((ahem)) babies- which only seems fitting for our friend and mama-to-be, The Cajun Bombshell.
Love and braver chats,
H.
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Fitness Update:
Today I thought I would do a fitness update since it has been a while. The last time I did one I told you all how I would be buckling down and doing some hardcore things.
I can proudly say that before I found out I was pregnant, I succeeded with the ball bouncing on my abs. I had to start out with a small and light ball, but I worked my way up to a heavier ball. That crap WORKS! If you ever want some hard, tight abs, do that workout!
For now, gym has been on and off for me. I have been walking around the neighborhood. The most I have been able to run is 2 minutes at a time. I feel like such a weiny! Mr. Man thinks it's funny that I can only run for 2 minutes, and I am sweating and breathing like a pig. I have thrown around a few weights, but nothing over 15 pound dumbbells. Next week, I plan to start more solid with weightlifting and cardio since my doctor has officially given me the go ahead. She actually encouraged me the whole time, just said when I get tired to rest. Now, she said I can push passed that, but not to the extreme. I miss the gym. I miss the weights. I feel like I walk in the gym and look like a fatty that could loose a few pounds. It does not bother me because I know I'm pregnant. And the people that know me or Mr. Man also could immediately tell something was up.
For now, it's frustrating because people look at me all funny, and girls are so competitive. I can not get over how many girls watch me in the gym then will go grab like 5 pounds heavier than what I am doing just to try and be a 'show off'. It's hilarious in my book because only if they knew. I seriously, literally laugh at them right in front of them. Mr. Man was the first to notice this happening, and he thinks it's pretty funny, too.
My weight is only 3 pounds up from where I was in the beginning. I would say it all belly, too. I have never had a belly, so it feels and looks funny. But it is one hard, tight belly.
So my new advice to women is.... Why have strong, tight abs when you can just have a baby?!
So for now, my goals is to stay fit so hopefully the labor with go smoother. Hopefully. Maybe?
I can proudly say that before I found out I was pregnant, I succeeded with the ball bouncing on my abs. I had to start out with a small and light ball, but I worked my way up to a heavier ball. That crap WORKS! If you ever want some hard, tight abs, do that workout!
For now, gym has been on and off for me. I have been walking around the neighborhood. The most I have been able to run is 2 minutes at a time. I feel like such a weiny! Mr. Man thinks it's funny that I can only run for 2 minutes, and I am sweating and breathing like a pig. I have thrown around a few weights, but nothing over 15 pound dumbbells. Next week, I plan to start more solid with weightlifting and cardio since my doctor has officially given me the go ahead. She actually encouraged me the whole time, just said when I get tired to rest. Now, she said I can push passed that, but not to the extreme. I miss the gym. I miss the weights. I feel like I walk in the gym and look like a fatty that could loose a few pounds. It does not bother me because I know I'm pregnant. And the people that know me or Mr. Man also could immediately tell something was up.
For now, it's frustrating because people look at me all funny, and girls are so competitive. I can not get over how many girls watch me in the gym then will go grab like 5 pounds heavier than what I am doing just to try and be a 'show off'. It's hilarious in my book because only if they knew. I seriously, literally laugh at them right in front of them. Mr. Man was the first to notice this happening, and he thinks it's pretty funny, too.
My weight is only 3 pounds up from where I was in the beginning. I would say it all belly, too. I have never had a belly, so it feels and looks funny. But it is one hard, tight belly.
So my new advice to women is.... Why have strong, tight abs when you can just have a baby?!
So for now, my goals is to stay fit so hopefully the labor with go smoother. Hopefully. Maybe?
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Quick Update About My Life:
Since my last several posts were based on the pregnancy and I went MIA for a while, I thought it was time to do a post on what is happening in our lives (other than this pregnancy).
Things have been pretty much the same. Mr. Man has been working 12s for a couple of weeks every month for the last couple of months, and I believe that October is the end of the exercise. I have to say that I hate him working nights, but it's a sacrifice to keep him on swings so who I am to complain. As much as I sometimes complain about swings, I much prefer them (while he is in this shop) over days. For sure. Work has been fairly solid for him, so that has left only time for being on an awkward schedule and having no time out during the weekend because when we wake up, everything's closed. Got to love it.
The good side of that, which I am thankful it is just 'happening' like this, is that we spend our weekends cleaning out each room. We choose one room, clean it out, organize it, and then I begin picking up odds and ends for the baby for that room. It has worked out for us this far since everyone in the family is beginning to claim their territory on what they would like to purchase. Seriously, I think there will be nothing for us to enjoy going out and buying because everyone is attacking us. But I would not have it any other way. It's a nice feeling to know that they care, love, and support this even a gazillion miles away. This is basically what our weekends consist of.
For me, I have been busy with school and doing some volunteer things - mostly spouse stuff. Since I doubled up on school this term before we found out we were pregnant, I am definitely busy. But honestly, I do not feel more busy than before. Mr. Man is taking it well. The baby is taking it well. And of course, I am taking it well. I have time to do the work, and I still have my weekends with my husband. It is nice. For the volunteering, I have cut it down some. Mostly because I do not see much daylight, so it would be hard for me to do anything at night. Right now, we are planning events, baking some cookies for different organizations we support, and doing some things with our church. Other than that, that's it with me.
Well, I lie. I'm still planning our Ireland trip for Thanksgiving. And now I am planning a trip to Germany. We are not sure when we will take our trip to Germany, but I am going ahead and starting while I have the time and energy before we start buckling down and preparing for the baby. We are hoping that we can go before the baby is born, but we are not going to force it by any means. I just want to have planned what we want to do, so when it does come up all I have to do is book flights, hotels, and get train tickets.
We found out a couple of weeks ago that Mr. Man will test for Tech Sergeant this year. He's already starting to be hard on himself because he does not want to let anyone down, but I keep telling him to just let whatever is meant to happen, happen. He has only been in for 5 years, and he has only been a Staff Sergeant for technically a year, but tested a year before. So seriously, he has plenty of time. He will test in February, and I have a feeling the baby will come in March. So our plans are to have everything settled with the baby by January-ish, so he can spend all his time not worrying about the family and focusing on studying (since it's killing him). He has said that if he does not make it, he will be ok with that under the circumstances because he would have to get a really, really high - almost perfect score in order to make it. I am not sure how it works. I mean I understand the concept behind it, but I do not know how the time-in-service affects him, which he is trying to explain to me. He needs to chill, and realize he is an awesome super trooper no matter what because he is progressing so quickly that even the ranks can not keep up with him ;)
Another popular topic that has come up several times since us being pregnant is whether or not we still would like to stay here in England. He randomly asked me last weekend, and it kind of caught me off-guard because I thought he was asking because he changed him mind. But he was actually asking because he thought with me being pregnant, I would change my mind. Such goobers, I know. Anyway, so I told him what I thought and how I felt, and with such relief, he feels the exact same. I can proudly announce at this point, for now anyway, we plan to try and stay here in England for another couple of years once our time is up. The benefits for us is beyond us, and that is the reason. Really, I can not worry about deployments and TDY's because we could get another high demand base, we could get another base with long hours. So for us, it is what England has to offer and whether or not we are happy with it. And everyone knows, I may wish I had a larger house, but I do not want to leave this behind any time soon. I am hoping to be able to finish my Master's while we are here without having to work. Mr. Man wants to try to get into a special duty when his time here is up. With that said, England is still our "happy place" and still calling on us, so here we want to stay if the Air Force and God agrees.
So there is our life in one quick bundle of blog. The world is seriously spinning so fast that we have no idea what to do with it. But we are trying to sit back and enjoy it while we can.
Things have been pretty much the same. Mr. Man has been working 12s for a couple of weeks every month for the last couple of months, and I believe that October is the end of the exercise. I have to say that I hate him working nights, but it's a sacrifice to keep him on swings so who I am to complain. As much as I sometimes complain about swings, I much prefer them (while he is in this shop) over days. For sure. Work has been fairly solid for him, so that has left only time for being on an awkward schedule and having no time out during the weekend because when we wake up, everything's closed. Got to love it.
The good side of that, which I am thankful it is just 'happening' like this, is that we spend our weekends cleaning out each room. We choose one room, clean it out, organize it, and then I begin picking up odds and ends for the baby for that room. It has worked out for us this far since everyone in the family is beginning to claim their territory on what they would like to purchase. Seriously, I think there will be nothing for us to enjoy going out and buying because everyone is attacking us. But I would not have it any other way. It's a nice feeling to know that they care, love, and support this even a gazillion miles away. This is basically what our weekends consist of.
For me, I have been busy with school and doing some volunteer things - mostly spouse stuff. Since I doubled up on school this term before we found out we were pregnant, I am definitely busy. But honestly, I do not feel more busy than before. Mr. Man is taking it well. The baby is taking it well. And of course, I am taking it well. I have time to do the work, and I still have my weekends with my husband. It is nice. For the volunteering, I have cut it down some. Mostly because I do not see much daylight, so it would be hard for me to do anything at night. Right now, we are planning events, baking some cookies for different organizations we support, and doing some things with our church. Other than that, that's it with me.
Well, I lie. I'm still planning our Ireland trip for Thanksgiving. And now I am planning a trip to Germany. We are not sure when we will take our trip to Germany, but I am going ahead and starting while I have the time and energy before we start buckling down and preparing for the baby. We are hoping that we can go before the baby is born, but we are not going to force it by any means. I just want to have planned what we want to do, so when it does come up all I have to do is book flights, hotels, and get train tickets.
We found out a couple of weeks ago that Mr. Man will test for Tech Sergeant this year. He's already starting to be hard on himself because he does not want to let anyone down, but I keep telling him to just let whatever is meant to happen, happen. He has only been in for 5 years, and he has only been a Staff Sergeant for technically a year, but tested a year before. So seriously, he has plenty of time. He will test in February, and I have a feeling the baby will come in March. So our plans are to have everything settled with the baby by January-ish, so he can spend all his time not worrying about the family and focusing on studying (since it's killing him). He has said that if he does not make it, he will be ok with that under the circumstances because he would have to get a really, really high - almost perfect score in order to make it. I am not sure how it works. I mean I understand the concept behind it, but I do not know how the time-in-service affects him, which he is trying to explain to me. He needs to chill, and realize he is an awesome super trooper no matter what because he is progressing so quickly that even the ranks can not keep up with him ;)
Another popular topic that has come up several times since us being pregnant is whether or not we still would like to stay here in England. He randomly asked me last weekend, and it kind of caught me off-guard because I thought he was asking because he changed him mind. But he was actually asking because he thought with me being pregnant, I would change my mind. Such goobers, I know. Anyway, so I told him what I thought and how I felt, and with such relief, he feels the exact same. I can proudly announce at this point, for now anyway, we plan to try and stay here in England for another couple of years once our time is up. The benefits for us is beyond us, and that is the reason. Really, I can not worry about deployments and TDY's because we could get another high demand base, we could get another base with long hours. So for us, it is what England has to offer and whether or not we are happy with it. And everyone knows, I may wish I had a larger house, but I do not want to leave this behind any time soon. I am hoping to be able to finish my Master's while we are here without having to work. Mr. Man wants to try to get into a special duty when his time here is up. With that said, England is still our "happy place" and still calling on us, so here we want to stay if the Air Force and God agrees.
So there is our life in one quick bundle of blog. The world is seriously spinning so fast that we have no idea what to do with it. But we are trying to sit back and enjoy it while we can.
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Clothing Diapering: Part 2
First, I want to thank you all for the information with the cloth diapers. I keep going back and forth and straddling the fence, which I am known for. As of right now, I'm thinking I will buy a few and try them out while we are home and around the house. If I decide I like them, I'll stick with them. If it becomes a pain, then I will ditch them. I really am wanting to find a way to make it work, but really there is so much to it. I will share a couple of videos with you guys to see what I saw, and then I would love MORE feedback!
So what do you think now?
When I watched these two videos, Mr. Man and I immediately said there is no way we could do that because he is gone a lot, he works a lot, and I spend just as much time on school as he does at work. For those of you who have used cloth diapering or if you know someone that does, send them my way. I want to drill them!! Because I obviously, would love for this to work.
Here are the videos:
From ClothDiaperChannel on YouTube!
So what do you think now?
Monday, September 13, 2010
Cloth Diapering: To Do or Not To Do?
Before I got pregnant, I did tons and tons and tons of research on children products. I read and searched for things that I was interested and made many decisions about what I would need and what I could do without. One of these popular topics that I did extensive research on was cloth diapering.
Before I got pregnant, I figured I would use cloth diapers and wipes. I was pretty set on it. I figured since I would be a stay-at-home Mom for the first couple of years, there was no reason why I could not do it. I chose the products that I would use and found the accessories that I would need to succeed with cloth diapering.
Now that I pregnant, the tables have completely 100% turned. I am still totally up for cloth diapering, and Mr. Man was totally on board until one day it just hit me. I realized that I have such determination and strength about things I am passionate about that I add too much to my plate. With that in mind and many, many discussions on the topic, we have officially decided we will not be cloth diapering.
As much as it makes me sad, I had a wide eye opener from many friends and YouTube. I know that cloth diapering is healthy and not meant to be convenient, but we do travel, I am a full time student, I am already so busy with what I do... that cloth diapering would probably be an added stress. Not to mention, there are other things I feel is more important than making sure cloth diapering would succeed. Like Breastfeeding- I would much rather put all my time and effort into trying to breastfeed versus cloth diapering.
In the end, this is what it came down to. We live in England. We travel. Either way, we would need disposables because long day trips and vacations would not be fun with having to worry about washing diapers. The big kicker is, we live in England. I would have to dry the diapers outside in the sun. Ummm, what sun? With all this in mind, I may start cloth diapering when/if we go back to the states and go somewhere that it would be an option. But right now, right here, I do not think it would be the best move for us with our first child.
I have to say that I am sad. I am sad that I will not get to experience cloth diapering. I am sad that Mr. Man was actually on board until I opened his (and my) eyes to the world of cloth diapering. Maybe one day when we have more time on our hands and are in the place for it to actually happen.
I wish England had more sunshine (although I really love the rainy, cool days like today). I really wish I would be able to have the opportunity to use cloth diapers for the healthiest way to change my baby's bottom. I really wish cloth diapers could be put in the dryer all the time. But....
That is not the case.
Anyone want to try and change our minds on this? Because I am all ears!! I am trying so hard to make this cloth diapering thing work, but it is just not happening.
Before I got pregnant, I figured I would use cloth diapers and wipes. I was pretty set on it. I figured since I would be a stay-at-home Mom for the first couple of years, there was no reason why I could not do it. I chose the products that I would use and found the accessories that I would need to succeed with cloth diapering.
Now that I pregnant, the tables have completely 100% turned. I am still totally up for cloth diapering, and Mr. Man was totally on board until one day it just hit me. I realized that I have such determination and strength about things I am passionate about that I add too much to my plate. With that in mind and many, many discussions on the topic, we have officially decided we will not be cloth diapering.
As much as it makes me sad, I had a wide eye opener from many friends and YouTube. I know that cloth diapering is healthy and not meant to be convenient, but we do travel, I am a full time student, I am already so busy with what I do... that cloth diapering would probably be an added stress. Not to mention, there are other things I feel is more important than making sure cloth diapering would succeed. Like Breastfeeding- I would much rather put all my time and effort into trying to breastfeed versus cloth diapering.
In the end, this is what it came down to. We live in England. We travel. Either way, we would need disposables because long day trips and vacations would not be fun with having to worry about washing diapers. The big kicker is, we live in England. I would have to dry the diapers outside in the sun. Ummm, what sun? With all this in mind, I may start cloth diapering when/if we go back to the states and go somewhere that it would be an option. But right now, right here, I do not think it would be the best move for us with our first child.
I have to say that I am sad. I am sad that I will not get to experience cloth diapering. I am sad that Mr. Man was actually on board until I opened his (and my) eyes to the world of cloth diapering. Maybe one day when we have more time on our hands and are in the place for it to actually happen.
I wish England had more sunshine (although I really love the rainy, cool days like today). I really wish I would be able to have the opportunity to use cloth diapers for the healthiest way to change my baby's bottom. I really wish cloth diapers could be put in the dryer all the time. But....
That is not the case.
Anyone want to try and change our minds on this? Because I am all ears!! I am trying so hard to make this cloth diapering thing work, but it is just not happening.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
