Today was the big day -- my due date finally arrived, but the little guy decided that he really HAD to have an October birthday. So waiting patiently we are!
I really don't have the energy to go into all of the details, but Matt and I have been up since about 3 am, so we're both completely exhausted. We made the trip to the hospital early this morning, and unfortunately came home without our new baby... My mom came over around 4, got up with the kids, put Katherine on the bus and then brought Caleb over to her house. After an exhausting and disappointing morning, Matt and I, along with the doctor, decided that this baby boy was not to be born today. So we are on hold until Thursday morning when my next doctor appoint is and then we'll decide on an induction time.
I do have funny stories from today, but quite honestly I'm just too tired... More to come....
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Monday, September 29, 2008
A million bucks...
That pretty much sums up how I felt today -- like the proverbial million bucks. Actually, I woke up feeling better today than I've felt in ages. The kids went to bed like a dream last night, and both slept until 8:20 or so. I woke up feeling well rested and as "normal" as it gets the day before I'm due. Evidently we even had a huge thunderstorm too, but I slept right through that as well. It was amazing!
I actually felt so great today that I contemplated taking the kids to the apple orchard this morning and totally would have if everything wasn't soaking wet and the kids would have been able to enjoy spending the day outside.
Instead we went down to the Science Center with my mom and Morgan and the Hodapp's (Andrea and the boys) and were downtown until shortly after 2:30. It didn't really matter what we were doing. It was just so great to have Katherine with us and be able to spend the day with her again, doing exactly what we wanted. We had a wonderful day and I'm anxiously looking forward to the next day that she has off. It can't come soon enough!
Tomorrow our new cleaning lady comes for the first time and I really don't want to be hanging around here with Caleb, so after gymnastics, I'm hoping to get his haircut and then heading over to Launderville's house (his little buddy Caden) to have lunch and spend the afternoon. He'll have a great time, and can play with his little friend for the afternoon. I must confess -- I'm looking forward to hanging out with Michelle tomorrow too. There's nothing better for the soul than hanging out with a good girlfriend!! I'm incredibly blessed to have wonderful friends in my life.
Speaking of wonderful friends ......
I am overwhelmed and humbled by how many calls I have gotten from family, friends, and neighbors wondering how everything was with the pregnancy, offering to help in countless ways, wondering how I was feeling, and how the baby was doing. All of the calls, cards, emails, and packages I've received lately makes me truly realize how blessed we are to have such wonderful people in our lives. I'm so thankful for each and every one of them, and for all they've done. It's such an incredible feeling to know that not only do we have such amazing people in our lives, but that this little guy will be brought into the world surrounded by so much love. He is truly blessed; we all are.
I actually felt so great today that I contemplated taking the kids to the apple orchard this morning and totally would have if everything wasn't soaking wet and the kids would have been able to enjoy spending the day outside.
Instead we went down to the Science Center with my mom and Morgan and the Hodapp's (Andrea and the boys) and were downtown until shortly after 2:30. It didn't really matter what we were doing. It was just so great to have Katherine with us and be able to spend the day with her again, doing exactly what we wanted. We had a wonderful day and I'm anxiously looking forward to the next day that she has off. It can't come soon enough!
Tomorrow our new cleaning lady comes for the first time and I really don't want to be hanging around here with Caleb, so after gymnastics, I'm hoping to get his haircut and then heading over to Launderville's house (his little buddy Caden) to have lunch and spend the afternoon. He'll have a great time, and can play with his little friend for the afternoon. I must confess -- I'm looking forward to hanging out with Michelle tomorrow too. There's nothing better for the soul than hanging out with a good girlfriend!! I'm incredibly blessed to have wonderful friends in my life.
Speaking of wonderful friends ......
I am overwhelmed and humbled by how many calls I have gotten from family, friends, and neighbors wondering how everything was with the pregnancy, offering to help in countless ways, wondering how I was feeling, and how the baby was doing. All of the calls, cards, emails, and packages I've received lately makes me truly realize how blessed we are to have such wonderful people in our lives. I'm so thankful for each and every one of them, and for all they've done. It's such an incredible feeling to know that not only do we have such amazing people in our lives, but that this little guy will be brought into the world surrounded by so much love. He is truly blessed; we all are.
Sunday, September 28, 2008
Nothing yet...
As frustrating as this is, we still haven't made the trip to the hospital. We're still at home waiting for the little guy to decide that he's ready to enter the world.... and he's a stubborn little one!
Our plans for getting to the hospital are constantly changing. One moment, my sister will come over and care for the kids while my parents make their way here, the next minute my mom will come and spend the night at our house. Right now the plan is that if we go to the hospital in the middle of the night, we'll bring the kids to my parent's house and they'll spend the day there until the baby is born and Matt can run and get them.
Originally, we were going to the apple orchard tomorrow, but since it's probably a 45 minute drive north of our house (and the hospital is about a 20 minute drive from our house) that's totally out of the question. Depending on how I feel, we'll either just go and relax over at mom and dad's house (and she'll help me with the kids) or we'll head to the Science Center. Actually, the Science Center would be perfect as it's right downtown and if something should happen down there, Matt could pick me up and Mom could take the kids back to her house in my car. So we'll see what tonight and tomorrow bring.... The only problem with that scenario is that my mom isn't exactly the type to feel comfortable driving the whale of I car I drive all the way back home, AND I'm not even sure if she could find her way out of downtown.... AAAAHHHH the details!
There's still a few more errands I have to run... I've had the thank you notes from Caleb's birthday done for over a week, but ran out of stamps, so I need to run to the post office, and I have a coupon to Archiver's (scrapbook store) burning a hole in my pocket, and I'm pretty sure it expires on the 30th, so if I don't use it now, it'll go to waste. What a shame!!
I'm off to bed. I need to try and relax before the baby comes because after he gets here, I'm sure any rest time on my end will be little to none!
I'll update soon!
Our plans for getting to the hospital are constantly changing. One moment, my sister will come over and care for the kids while my parents make their way here, the next minute my mom will come and spend the night at our house. Right now the plan is that if we go to the hospital in the middle of the night, we'll bring the kids to my parent's house and they'll spend the day there until the baby is born and Matt can run and get them.
Originally, we were going to the apple orchard tomorrow, but since it's probably a 45 minute drive north of our house (and the hospital is about a 20 minute drive from our house) that's totally out of the question. Depending on how I feel, we'll either just go and relax over at mom and dad's house (and she'll help me with the kids) or we'll head to the Science Center. Actually, the Science Center would be perfect as it's right downtown and if something should happen down there, Matt could pick me up and Mom could take the kids back to her house in my car. So we'll see what tonight and tomorrow bring.... The only problem with that scenario is that my mom isn't exactly the type to feel comfortable driving the whale of I car I drive all the way back home, AND I'm not even sure if she could find her way out of downtown.... AAAAHHHH the details!
There's still a few more errands I have to run... I've had the thank you notes from Caleb's birthday done for over a week, but ran out of stamps, so I need to run to the post office, and I have a coupon to Archiver's (scrapbook store) burning a hole in my pocket, and I'm pretty sure it expires on the 30th, so if I don't use it now, it'll go to waste. What a shame!!
I'm off to bed. I need to try and relax before the baby comes because after he gets here, I'm sure any rest time on my end will be little to none!
I'll update soon!
We're getting close....
.... or at least that's what all the signs are showing. I have to warn you, this post may have way too much information, so if you're not interested in hearing all about the early stages of labor, just ignore this post and come back later!!
Last night I couldn't sleep at all. Literally I was up most of the night. I woke up with cramping around 2 and could never fall back asleep. When Caleb woke up at 7:30, I was a total zombie so it was off to Starbucks I went to get a little pick me up. Oh, what a difference it makes! LOL.
After Katherine woke up, I took both kids into bed with me, put a show on for them and tried to rest for a while. Once again, I was totally unsuccessful... So Matt took them out for breakfast, and I finally got around to taking a shower around 11 (going to church was the last thing I could muster up the energy to do this morning so that just didn't happen). The cramping continued and about half way into my hour long shower, I realized that I lost my plug. I started having cramping and severe shaking almost immediately....
Oh, you should see my eye make up today. It looks like a 4th grader applied it for me. I had to put it on in the middle of shaking like a leaf, and it's just not pretty! LOL.
I realized that I was starving, so Matt took off to PF Changs and picked up lunch for us, and then stopped at a different place for the kids.
At any rate, I feel awful.... This baby has got to be close! I'm super crampy and shaking like my body is going through shock. I'm sure it won't be long!
So Matt changed the sheets on our bed and got everything ready for my mom to come and stay tonight if the little guy decides to make his entry into the world in the next 24 hours.
I'm not nervous about the pain or actually giving birth. In fact, it's just the opposite. I'm so ready to meet this little guy and hold him in my arms for the first time. What I am nervous about is Katherine and Caleb... leaving them for a couple of days, wondering about how they'll be when I'm in the hospital, and missing them like crazy. Sure they'll spend a lot of time there, but Caleb is such a Momma's boy that it's hard for other people to take care of him, and Katherine, she's my mini-me. I know they'll be fine, but I'd really like to be the one to make their meals, play with them, read them their stories and put them to bed.... Soon enough!!
Last night I couldn't sleep at all. Literally I was up most of the night. I woke up with cramping around 2 and could never fall back asleep. When Caleb woke up at 7:30, I was a total zombie so it was off to Starbucks I went to get a little pick me up. Oh, what a difference it makes! LOL.
After Katherine woke up, I took both kids into bed with me, put a show on for them and tried to rest for a while. Once again, I was totally unsuccessful... So Matt took them out for breakfast, and I finally got around to taking a shower around 11 (going to church was the last thing I could muster up the energy to do this morning so that just didn't happen). The cramping continued and about half way into my hour long shower, I realized that I lost my plug. I started having cramping and severe shaking almost immediately....
Oh, you should see my eye make up today. It looks like a 4th grader applied it for me. I had to put it on in the middle of shaking like a leaf, and it's just not pretty! LOL.
I realized that I was starving, so Matt took off to PF Changs and picked up lunch for us, and then stopped at a different place for the kids.
At any rate, I feel awful.... This baby has got to be close! I'm super crampy and shaking like my body is going through shock. I'm sure it won't be long!
So Matt changed the sheets on our bed and got everything ready for my mom to come and stay tonight if the little guy decides to make his entry into the world in the next 24 hours.
I'm not nervous about the pain or actually giving birth. In fact, it's just the opposite. I'm so ready to meet this little guy and hold him in my arms for the first time. What I am nervous about is Katherine and Caleb... leaving them for a couple of days, wondering about how they'll be when I'm in the hospital, and missing them like crazy. Sure they'll spend a lot of time there, but Caleb is such a Momma's boy that it's hard for other people to take care of him, and Katherine, she's my mini-me. I know they'll be fine, but I'd really like to be the one to make their meals, play with them, read them their stories and put them to bed.... Soon enough!!
Saturday, September 27, 2008
Happy Fall!
It's official! Fall is here, and I'm loving the change! It was still about 82 degrees today and we were wearing shorts, but the leaves are starting to fall from the trees and pumpkins are everywhere. I love it! October is by far my most favorite month of the year -- the change in the weather, the crisp air, the apple orchards, the pumpkin carving, and watching the kids jump in piles of leaves. It's great!
This afternoon after the Hawkeye game, Matt, Katherine, Caleb, Isaac, Elizabeth and I went to Howell tree farm for the first time this season. The kids had so much fun playing in the corn, riding tractors, going down the slide, riding the tire swings, and driving these new little cars they added this year. Oh, and of course, eating kettle corn. YUMMY!!
We didn't end up getting any pumpkins yet though. I decided that I'd get some el-cheapo ones at Hy-Vee on Wednesday night after Katherine is done with dance to decorate the steps outside the house. Then, when it gets closer to Halloween, we'll head back to the patch so the kids can pick out their carving pumpkins. I can't wait!
Katherine has been practicing gymnastics all day today. Literally, every time she has 5 minutes of "down time" she's been working on her kickovers (you start standing up, lean back into a bridge and then kick your legs over your head and land standing up). However, she realized that she can "tick-tock" it back and forth (your hands don't leave the ground, but you kick your legs from the front to the back) so she's been obsessed with that today. I find it so amazing that she's willing to work on something with so much determination when no one (but Mommy) is watching. She's one determined little girl! And -- at least she's not practicing her beam routine on the side of the bathtub!
In other news ....
It's official. I have totally and completely driven Matt nuts. He's had enough of my cleaning fetish, and has officially begged me to stop. What totally threw him over the edge was that evidently I've been doing laundry when there is only 6 or 7 things that need to be washed and then expect him to put them away right away. Normally, he's OK with this, but not at 10 pm and not during some "really important football game". Let's just say, the poor guy is ready for this baby to arrive! Oh, and still... there's stuff I want to get done before the baby arrives.... sanitizing the refrigerator, cleaning out the pantry, and straightening this cupboard of random Tupperware that I have. Oh, that's been on list for quite a while, but I just haven't gotten around to it yet. There's been other, more pressing chores to do! LOL!! Our new cleaning lady comes for the first time on Tuesday, and I can't wait. OH, I'm WAAAAYY excited about it!
This afternoon after the Hawkeye game, Matt, Katherine, Caleb, Isaac, Elizabeth and I went to Howell tree farm for the first time this season. The kids had so much fun playing in the corn, riding tractors, going down the slide, riding the tire swings, and driving these new little cars they added this year. Oh, and of course, eating kettle corn. YUMMY!!
We didn't end up getting any pumpkins yet though. I decided that I'd get some el-cheapo ones at Hy-Vee on Wednesday night after Katherine is done with dance to decorate the steps outside the house. Then, when it gets closer to Halloween, we'll head back to the patch so the kids can pick out their carving pumpkins. I can't wait!
Katherine has been practicing gymnastics all day today. Literally, every time she has 5 minutes of "down time" she's been working on her kickovers (you start standing up, lean back into a bridge and then kick your legs over your head and land standing up). However, she realized that she can "tick-tock" it back and forth (your hands don't leave the ground, but you kick your legs from the front to the back) so she's been obsessed with that today. I find it so amazing that she's willing to work on something with so much determination when no one (but Mommy) is watching. She's one determined little girl! And -- at least she's not practicing her beam routine on the side of the bathtub!
In other news ....
It's official. I have totally and completely driven Matt nuts. He's had enough of my cleaning fetish, and has officially begged me to stop. What totally threw him over the edge was that evidently I've been doing laundry when there is only 6 or 7 things that need to be washed and then expect him to put them away right away. Normally, he's OK with this, but not at 10 pm and not during some "really important football game". Let's just say, the poor guy is ready for this baby to arrive! Oh, and still... there's stuff I want to get done before the baby arrives.... sanitizing the refrigerator, cleaning out the pantry, and straightening this cupboard of random Tupperware that I have. Oh, that's been on list for quite a while, but I just haven't gotten around to it yet. There's been other, more pressing chores to do! LOL!! Our new cleaning lady comes for the first time on Tuesday, and I can't wait. OH, I'm WAAAAYY excited about it!
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Baby update...
This morning, I had my weekly OB checkup, and guess what???? Other than gaining a pound since last Friday, nothing has changed. That's right. Absolutely NO progress. In theory, I'm fine with this though, as I'd really like to have the little guy in October, but man... on the other hand, I was hoping for at least a little progression. I guess in the end, he'll come when he's good and ready!
My blood pressure was 75/115, which was higher than it's been lately and in total I've gained 14 pounds. My feet and ankles are starting to swell by around noon, and by the time the kids go to bed, they look like martian feet. Good thing it's summer and I don't have to stuff them in regular shoes! It's all about the flip-flops! LOL!!
The doctor I saw today was a total fool. I can't stand him, but it was either see him today or miss spending the day with Katherine on Monday when she's off school. No brainer there! I'm not sure exactly what it is about him, but he's the perfect combination of flake and creep that just makes my skin crawl. Oh, and on top of that, he's a D.O. which makes me shudder... I'm just hoping and praying that he's not the one that actually delivers me.
In happy doctor news, my doctor was on leave for a couple of months, and is back as of October 1st. I see him next Thursday, October 2nd, and if I still haven't gone into labor, I'll probably just ask him to induce me when he's on call.
Tonight is going to be a relaxing night. Katherine has gymnastics from 5-6, and then we're going to come home, make dinner and let the kids play outside for a couple of hours. While Matt and the kids are outside, I may try to make a short Hobby Lobby run to get a couple of scrapbooking "must haves" -- adhesive and CS. Then, my all time favorite show is on tonight -- Grey's Anatomy. I CAN'T WAIT!! Love that show!
I'm trying to come up with the perfect activity for us to do on Monday when Katherine is off school. Since we'll be going to the pumpkin patch about 4 or 5 times in the next month, I really wanted to do something else -- maybe the Apple orchard up by Ames??? If the weather is nice, I'd really like to do something outside, but more importantly, I want her to pick what we do. I want her to have a great day with Caleb and I on her day off, and a great day before her new little brother arrives. So well see.... Ultimately, whatever she wants to do is fine with me!
My blood pressure was 75/115, which was higher than it's been lately and in total I've gained 14 pounds. My feet and ankles are starting to swell by around noon, and by the time the kids go to bed, they look like martian feet. Good thing it's summer and I don't have to stuff them in regular shoes! It's all about the flip-flops! LOL!!
The doctor I saw today was a total fool. I can't stand him, but it was either see him today or miss spending the day with Katherine on Monday when she's off school. No brainer there! I'm not sure exactly what it is about him, but he's the perfect combination of flake and creep that just makes my skin crawl. Oh, and on top of that, he's a D.O. which makes me shudder... I'm just hoping and praying that he's not the one that actually delivers me.
In happy doctor news, my doctor was on leave for a couple of months, and is back as of October 1st. I see him next Thursday, October 2nd, and if I still haven't gone into labor, I'll probably just ask him to induce me when he's on call.
Tonight is going to be a relaxing night. Katherine has gymnastics from 5-6, and then we're going to come home, make dinner and let the kids play outside for a couple of hours. While Matt and the kids are outside, I may try to make a short Hobby Lobby run to get a couple of scrapbooking "must haves" -- adhesive and CS. Then, my all time favorite show is on tonight -- Grey's Anatomy. I CAN'T WAIT!! Love that show!
I'm trying to come up with the perfect activity for us to do on Monday when Katherine is off school. Since we'll be going to the pumpkin patch about 4 or 5 times in the next month, I really wanted to do something else -- maybe the Apple orchard up by Ames??? If the weather is nice, I'd really like to do something outside, but more importantly, I want her to pick what we do. I want her to have a great day with Caleb and I on her day off, and a great day before her new little brother arrives. So well see.... Ultimately, whatever she wants to do is fine with me!
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
How sad is this???
Caleb and I play cars by the hour on the hardwood floors. Sometimes he sits next to me and we "race" them, other times he sits across from me and we crash them, and then we send them down this little ramp thing he has. By the time we're done, I'm hoarse from making car noises! You know... we play cars! Oh, and it's super fun!
Well.... Today we went to Target on the way home from Kindermusik as I had absolutely NO FOOD in the house, and had been putting off buying a bunch in case I went into labor -- as we all know Matt wouldn't be home cooking! LOL. Anyway, since it was going to be an involved trip (and I'm not above bribing my son) I told Caleb that if he was a good boy, I'd buy him a pack of the Hot Wheels cars they have in the checkout lane. He was a golden boy, so of course I bought them!
Anyway, we get home, I unload the groceries and make lunch, and he's quietly playing with his new cars on his own. After we eat, it's straight to the floor so that we can play with his newest additions. While we were playing, he was eating a package of fruit snacks and when he was done, I asked him to put the package in the garbage. He looks at me, GROANS, and says, "Oh Mommy... I JUUUUUSST can't. My tummy is getting too big!" LOL!! I had to cringe... How many times in the last month has he heard me say this? Clearly far too many!
Oh, what else ..........
About two months ago, I made all of my remaining OB appointments so that I could schedule them with the doctors I wanted to see. My next OB appointment was scheduled for Monday, but at the time I made it, I didn't realize it conflicted with Katherine's schedule. She actually has the day off school! Woo-Hoo!! Since she has Monday off, I changed my OB appointment to tomorrow, so that we could spend the day together, rather than sending her over to my mom's house for the middle of the morning (which I'm sure she'd be plenty happy with, but I must confess, I'm greedy and want her to myself)! So tomorrow I'm off to the doctor to see if things are progressing. My appointment is at 10, so I'll hopefully have time to update the blog when little man is napping.
So -- I don't want to jinx myself, but I really don't think this baby is coming in the next few days. The constant cramping and contractions I had for several days have subsided, and for the most part, I feel pretty good. Thankfully, my moodiness is gone too, which is good for all involved! Oh, and they did come back yesterday to pick up the garbage!
With that being said, having the baby before my due date isn't something I was super excited about. I have a ton of stuff I want to get done, and some things I want to do with the kids before their new little brother arrives. So... here's the deal. I'm due on the 30th, but since October is my all time favorite month, I was always hoping he'd be born sometime after October 1. HOWEVER, October 2nd, is my niece's birthday, so that wasn't an ideal date, and for reasons I don't want to put on this blog, I really didn't want to have him on October 3rd. Without any details, October 3rd is my day. It's the one day out of the year I use to reflect on the past and dream about the future. What this day represents to me is so much more than just a day, and moving "my day" just isn't an option. It's been my day long before my kids were born, long before I met Matt, long before I started college. There are emotional ties to this specific day that I just can't break, and having a baby on this day just isn't ideal. Which means, I can pretty much plan his arrival on October 3rd! Just keep your fingers crossed for me that he isn't born on October 3rd. I'd rather have him ANY other day out of the year, Christmas included!!
Well.... Today we went to Target on the way home from Kindermusik as I had absolutely NO FOOD in the house, and had been putting off buying a bunch in case I went into labor -- as we all know Matt wouldn't be home cooking! LOL. Anyway, since it was going to be an involved trip (and I'm not above bribing my son) I told Caleb that if he was a good boy, I'd buy him a pack of the Hot Wheels cars they have in the checkout lane. He was a golden boy, so of course I bought them!
Anyway, we get home, I unload the groceries and make lunch, and he's quietly playing with his new cars on his own. After we eat, it's straight to the floor so that we can play with his newest additions. While we were playing, he was eating a package of fruit snacks and when he was done, I asked him to put the package in the garbage. He looks at me, GROANS, and says, "Oh Mommy... I JUUUUUSST can't. My tummy is getting too big!" LOL!! I had to cringe... How many times in the last month has he heard me say this? Clearly far too many!
Oh, what else ..........
About two months ago, I made all of my remaining OB appointments so that I could schedule them with the doctors I wanted to see. My next OB appointment was scheduled for Monday, but at the time I made it, I didn't realize it conflicted with Katherine's schedule. She actually has the day off school! Woo-Hoo!! Since she has Monday off, I changed my OB appointment to tomorrow, so that we could spend the day together, rather than sending her over to my mom's house for the middle of the morning (which I'm sure she'd be plenty happy with, but I must confess, I'm greedy and want her to myself)! So tomorrow I'm off to the doctor to see if things are progressing. My appointment is at 10, so I'll hopefully have time to update the blog when little man is napping.
So -- I don't want to jinx myself, but I really don't think this baby is coming in the next few days. The constant cramping and contractions I had for several days have subsided, and for the most part, I feel pretty good. Thankfully, my moodiness is gone too, which is good for all involved! Oh, and they did come back yesterday to pick up the garbage!
With that being said, having the baby before my due date isn't something I was super excited about. I have a ton of stuff I want to get done, and some things I want to do with the kids before their new little brother arrives. So... here's the deal. I'm due on the 30th, but since October is my all time favorite month, I was always hoping he'd be born sometime after October 1. HOWEVER, October 2nd, is my niece's birthday, so that wasn't an ideal date, and for reasons I don't want to put on this blog, I really didn't want to have him on October 3rd. Without any details, October 3rd is my day. It's the one day out of the year I use to reflect on the past and dream about the future. What this day represents to me is so much more than just a day, and moving "my day" just isn't an option. It's been my day long before my kids were born, long before I met Matt, long before I started college. There are emotional ties to this specific day that I just can't break, and having a baby on this day just isn't ideal. Which means, I can pretty much plan his arrival on October 3rd! Just keep your fingers crossed for me that he isn't born on October 3rd. I'd rather have him ANY other day out of the year, Christmas included!!
Monday, September 22, 2008
I'm nesting...
... and it's getting ridiculous!
Seriously, please tell me... is there really any kids bathroom that *needs* to be cleaned at 9 pm? And... in that said bathroom, if one really felt the need to scrub the tub and floors, does one really need to clean and sanitize under the sink??? UUUUUHHHH, that'd be a big fat no. However, in my world, not only did it NEED to be done, but it needed to be done tonight. It just couldn't wait!
Oh, and get this.... I chose to clean the kids' bathroom over going over to Danyel's house, with some of the neighborhood crew, to her bow making party (bows for little girl's hair). Sorry girl!! I tried to rationalize it as two of my neighbors have "illness" in their house, and the thought of infecting my house just made me ill. One has a little girl with chicken pox, and the other has a hubby with mono and a daughter with 5th's disease. Since I'm going to have this baby in the next few days (hopefully) I felt the need to stay away and sanitize under Katherine and Caleb's sink. OMG... I've totally lost it! But at least I can admit it!! LOL.
Tomorrow is going to be a busy day... I'm meeting Michelle for a little shopping between Katherine and Nicholas going to school and Caleb's gymnastics class which starts at 10. As soon as his class is over, I'm rushing him to my mom's house and heading up to school so that I can have lunch with Katherine at 11:30. I can't wait to see what delectable treats they'll have for lunch. She gets the lunch I packed her, and I'm stuck with the hot cafeteria lunch! YUM!! LOL!!
I am literally getting on my own nerves. I should relax and try to sleep right now, but all I can think about is how FUN it'd be to go through the crap under my own sink right now and purge.... and I'm not using the word "fun" lightly... Nope, I really think it'd be a good time. And, of course, it must be done right away. Poor Matt.... the guy is about ready to have a heart attack! If it wouldn't keep him awake, I'd definitely do it right now................
Seriously, please tell me... is there really any kids bathroom that *needs* to be cleaned at 9 pm? And... in that said bathroom, if one really felt the need to scrub the tub and floors, does one really need to clean and sanitize under the sink??? UUUUUHHHH, that'd be a big fat no. However, in my world, not only did it NEED to be done, but it needed to be done tonight. It just couldn't wait!
Oh, and get this.... I chose to clean the kids' bathroom over going over to Danyel's house, with some of the neighborhood crew, to her bow making party (bows for little girl's hair). Sorry girl!! I tried to rationalize it as two of my neighbors have "illness" in their house, and the thought of infecting my house just made me ill. One has a little girl with chicken pox, and the other has a hubby with mono and a daughter with 5th's disease. Since I'm going to have this baby in the next few days (hopefully) I felt the need to stay away and sanitize under Katherine and Caleb's sink. OMG... I've totally lost it! But at least I can admit it!! LOL.
Tomorrow is going to be a busy day... I'm meeting Michelle for a little shopping between Katherine and Nicholas going to school and Caleb's gymnastics class which starts at 10. As soon as his class is over, I'm rushing him to my mom's house and heading up to school so that I can have lunch with Katherine at 11:30. I can't wait to see what delectable treats they'll have for lunch. She gets the lunch I packed her, and I'm stuck with the hot cafeteria lunch! YUM!! LOL!!
I am literally getting on my own nerves. I should relax and try to sleep right now, but all I can think about is how FUN it'd be to go through the crap under my own sink right now and purge.... and I'm not using the word "fun" lightly... Nope, I really think it'd be a good time. And, of course, it must be done right away. Poor Matt.... the guy is about ready to have a heart attack! If it wouldn't keep him awake, I'd definitely do it right now................
I'm losing it....
Seriously, I'm so ticked off right now, that I'm about ready to have a flippin' heart attack. Why, you may ask????
Well... I'm outside playing with the kids today after school and realize that the garbage company didn't take our trash today. That's right -- it's half full and I'm in a total rage about it. I've already called them and *shockingly* there isn't anyone in the office for me to vent to, but I did leave a rater nice voice mail for them...
OK, I know how irrational this. I know that in the game of life, this shouldn't even make a blip on the radar, but right now, it seems like just about the most important thing in the world. I've totally lost it, I tell ya... I have absolutely no concept of what "rational" is right now!! UUUUUUUGH!
Well... I'm outside playing with the kids today after school and realize that the garbage company didn't take our trash today. That's right -- it's half full and I'm in a total rage about it. I've already called them and *shockingly* there isn't anyone in the office for me to vent to, but I did leave a rater nice voice mail for them...
OK, I know how irrational this. I know that in the game of life, this shouldn't even make a blip on the radar, but right now, it seems like just about the most important thing in the world. I've totally lost it, I tell ya... I have absolutely no concept of what "rational" is right now!! UUUUUUUGH!
Still here....
That's all I can say.... I'm still here. The contractions went from semi-regular and getting more painful, to nothing... That's right, nothing. UUUUGH! So once again I was up half the night with absolutely nothing to show for it, and shockingly enough I'm not tired -- yet. I'm not taking any chances though. I feel totally deserving of a Starbucks run this morning after Miss Katherine gets on the bus! LOL!!
Anyway, there's a new robot exhibit at the Science Center, so Caleb and I are heading there with Michelle, Nicholas and Caden (and baby McKenna). Maybe a little running around and hanging out with good friends will do us all good! When we get home, I plan to start cleaning out my scrapbooking room. In Matt's words, it's turned into a "catch all junk room". Not exactly the look I'm going for, so Caleb and I are going in there with a garbage bag and going to give it a good cleansing -- or he'll get a nap if I can fight the good fight today! Wish me luck!
Anyway, there's a new robot exhibit at the Science Center, so Caleb and I are heading there with Michelle, Nicholas and Caden (and baby McKenna). Maybe a little running around and hanging out with good friends will do us all good! When we get home, I plan to start cleaning out my scrapbooking room. In Matt's words, it's turned into a "catch all junk room". Not exactly the look I'm going for, so Caleb and I are going in there with a garbage bag and going to give it a good cleansing -- or he'll get a nap if I can fight the good fight today! Wish me luck!
Sunday, September 21, 2008
Is this it???
This morning I woke up at 4 am, looked at the clock and was shocked that I actually made it through the night without contractions or my water breaking. I tried to fall back asleep, but I wasn't exactly successful! Oh, well... I'm sure it's just my body getting ready to be awake 24/7 in the upcoming weeks..... and I'm totally prepared since both Katherine and Caleb were terrible sleepers! Have I ever mentioned that Caleb didn't sleep though the night for 15.5 months. That's right, it isn't a typo ..... FIFTEEN AND A HALF MONTHS of sleepless nights!!!!!
All day today I've felt pretty good -- as if labor was days away... Nothing was really progressing until the last hour or so, when contractions have started. They're not super painful or regular or anything alarming, just there.... So who knows??? Maybe the good doc was right, or maybe it's just a false alarm. In any event, I really hope it doesn't happen tonight. I'd really like to have a few days, to get a few more unnecessary things done!! LOL!
I'm off to throw a few more in the suitcase. I bought Katherine and Caleb each a "gift" from their new baby brother. Katherine got a couple of outfits for her American Girl doll, and Caleb got a few toy/coloring book/crayon type things to keep him busy at the hospital. He got so many trucks, cars, and random boy toys for his birthday, that I just didn't think he needed anymore!
OH.... I've got to go and walk around. Contractions are getting more and more painful. Thankfully, my mom is ready to come over any time!! I'm still hopeful that it's not the real thing!! Really, am I the only person who wants to be preggo for as long as possible?
All day today I've felt pretty good -- as if labor was days away... Nothing was really progressing until the last hour or so, when contractions have started. They're not super painful or regular or anything alarming, just there.... So who knows??? Maybe the good doc was right, or maybe it's just a false alarm. In any event, I really hope it doesn't happen tonight. I'd really like to have a few days, to get a few more unnecessary things done!! LOL!
I'm off to throw a few more in the suitcase. I bought Katherine and Caleb each a "gift" from their new baby brother. Katherine got a couple of outfits for her American Girl doll, and Caleb got a few toy/coloring book/crayon type things to keep him busy at the hospital. He got so many trucks, cars, and random boy toys for his birthday, that I just didn't think he needed anymore!
OH.... I've got to go and walk around. Contractions are getting more and more painful. Thankfully, my mom is ready to come over any time!! I'm still hopeful that it's not the real thing!! Really, am I the only person who wants to be preggo for as long as possible?
Saturday, September 20, 2008
Update....
Well, the list of things I had to get done today, is NOT complete. The list still exists, and I'm sitting here in sweats contemplating cleaning.... Both kids are napping, and we're going to dinner with the Hodapp's at 6:30. I'm not about to make a Target run now!
Matt took the kids this morning until the Hawkeye game started, and to put it mildly, it was not pretty. Caleb can't understand why his Daddy yells at the tv, and constantly tells him to "stop yelling, Daddy!!!!!!!!!!!" Then he gets about two inches from the tv set and yells "Go Hockey!" I have no clue if he thinks he's watching Herkey (the mascot) or the Hawkeyes, but in any event, he's sure it's called "hockey". I've tried to correct him a million times, but it's one of his strange little quirks I don't want to mess with!!
So since the game didn't go well, I took the kids outside to play (basically so we didn't have to listen to the constant yelling and stomping around the basement) and the Hodapp boys came over and hung out with us for a while.
In baby news.... I have to be honest, since I had to be induced with Katherine and it didn't go well, and Caleb was 6 days late, I assumed that I'd have this baby sometime after my due date. The thought that he'd arrive early didn't even dawn on me ... yea I know... pretty crazy, huh??? Anyway, things are progressing today, although slowly, but I'm pretty confident that this baby will be here in the next few days. I'd be SHOCKED if I was still pregnant 4 days from now. With that being said, the hospital has wireless Internet, and I fully plan to bring the laptop with me. So, I'll take and upload pictures as soon as he comes and give you all a quick email.
Even though I have a list of things to do a mile long, the important stuff is done. His clothes are washed and put away, he has an adorable going home outfit to wear, I bought some essentials recently -- new nursing bras, parts for the pump, diapers, etc... So, even if he comes tomorrow, everything that HAD to be done is done. The rest will be taken care of in the near future.
I'm so excited, nervous, unprepared and elated all at the same time. I just can't wait to meet him and hold him in my arms. I can't wait for Matt to become a daddy again, and for Katherine and Caleb to meet their new little brother. I am so ready for our family of four to become 5. I wonder so much about about our new little guy.... Will he have Katherine's tender heart, or Caleb's amazing sense of humor? Will he have Katherine's fair features, or Caleb's huge blue eyes? Will he be an easy going baby like Katherine was, or will he have colic like Caleb did? In any event, our lives are about to change, all for the better. It's an amazing feeling to know that a new little life is about to enter the world, precious and innocent, straight from the hands of God. I am so ready for this wonderful journey we are about to embark on.....
Matt took the kids this morning until the Hawkeye game started, and to put it mildly, it was not pretty. Caleb can't understand why his Daddy yells at the tv, and constantly tells him to "stop yelling, Daddy!!!!!!!!!!!" Then he gets about two inches from the tv set and yells "Go Hockey!" I have no clue if he thinks he's watching Herkey (the mascot) or the Hawkeyes, but in any event, he's sure it's called "hockey". I've tried to correct him a million times, but it's one of his strange little quirks I don't want to mess with!!
So since the game didn't go well, I took the kids outside to play (basically so we didn't have to listen to the constant yelling and stomping around the basement) and the Hodapp boys came over and hung out with us for a while.
In baby news.... I have to be honest, since I had to be induced with Katherine and it didn't go well, and Caleb was 6 days late, I assumed that I'd have this baby sometime after my due date. The thought that he'd arrive early didn't even dawn on me ... yea I know... pretty crazy, huh??? Anyway, things are progressing today, although slowly, but I'm pretty confident that this baby will be here in the next few days. I'd be SHOCKED if I was still pregnant 4 days from now. With that being said, the hospital has wireless Internet, and I fully plan to bring the laptop with me. So, I'll take and upload pictures as soon as he comes and give you all a quick email.
Even though I have a list of things to do a mile long, the important stuff is done. His clothes are washed and put away, he has an adorable going home outfit to wear, I bought some essentials recently -- new nursing bras, parts for the pump, diapers, etc... So, even if he comes tomorrow, everything that HAD to be done is done. The rest will be taken care of in the near future.
I'm so excited, nervous, unprepared and elated all at the same time. I just can't wait to meet him and hold him in my arms. I can't wait for Matt to become a daddy again, and for Katherine and Caleb to meet their new little brother. I am so ready for our family of four to become 5. I wonder so much about about our new little guy.... Will he have Katherine's tender heart, or Caleb's amazing sense of humor? Will he have Katherine's fair features, or Caleb's huge blue eyes? Will he be an easy going baby like Katherine was, or will he have colic like Caleb did? In any event, our lives are about to change, all for the better. It's an amazing feeling to know that a new little life is about to enter the world, precious and innocent, straight from the hands of God. I am so ready for this wonderful journey we are about to embark on.....
Friday, September 19, 2008
It won't be long....
... or at least that what the good doc thinks!!
Today I had my weekly OB checkup, and I'm 38.5 weeks -- technically 10 days out from the big day. ** However, I *KNOW* my actual due date is Sept 27th, which puts me one week from today...
Up until last week I was measuring right on target, but as of today, I'm measuring a "very small 36 weeks, almost 35 weeks". Which means that the baby is dropping! Woo-hoo! On top of that, I'm almost dilated to a 2.
He told me that it's purely a guess, but he thinks I'll be able to enjoy the nice weather this weekend, but I'll probably go shortly thereafter. He doesn't think I have much time left, especially considering this is my third baby, and he'll come quickly! So with that being said, I have a ton of errands to run tomorrow. There's a few odds and ends that I need to pick up at Target along with getting some laundry done, and resting! Oh, and as luck would have it, we're going out for Mexican food with the neighbors tomorrow night.
So who knows, this little guy just may make his arrival into the world a little sooner than I thought. I can't wait to meet him!!
Today I had my weekly OB checkup, and I'm 38.5 weeks -- technically 10 days out from the big day. ** However, I *KNOW* my actual due date is Sept 27th, which puts me one week from today...
Up until last week I was measuring right on target, but as of today, I'm measuring a "very small 36 weeks, almost 35 weeks". Which means that the baby is dropping! Woo-hoo! On top of that, I'm almost dilated to a 2.
He told me that it's purely a guess, but he thinks I'll be able to enjoy the nice weather this weekend, but I'll probably go shortly thereafter. He doesn't think I have much time left, especially considering this is my third baby, and he'll come quickly! So with that being said, I have a ton of errands to run tomorrow. There's a few odds and ends that I need to pick up at Target along with getting some laundry done, and resting! Oh, and as luck would have it, we're going out for Mexican food with the neighbors tomorrow night.
So who knows, this little guy just may make his arrival into the world a little sooner than I thought. I can't wait to meet him!!
To NJ.....
You know... I really debated whether or not to respond to the fool in New Jersey who was kind of enough to leave me the sweetest comment filled with typos and cuss words (good education sweetheart!) but since I noticed that you've continued reading, I couldn't help myself.....
Normally, I'd give you a good tongue lashing and tell you to mind your own damn business, but since you decided to attack my mothering skills and my children, I'll leave it with this...
For your information, my kids are happy, well educated, funny, smart, and well adjusted. They get along well with other kids, and are secure in who they are and how much they are loved, not only by their parents, but their extended family.
Just because I don't let them watch Sponge Bob, DOES NOT mean that I have a problem with Dora, the Spanish language, anyone from Mexico or keep them on a leash at the grocery store. Oh, that was hilarious by the way.... Actually, for your information, my kids don't really watch that much TV and they're better people for it. They actually have a mother who plays with them every day, takes them places, and provides them with many experiences that other kids do not have. (I know it's a great idea -- you should try it....) But until then, maybe if you'd shut off your stinkin' tv, stop surfing the net for random blogs that you can leave nasty comments full of typos on, learn how to spell and start educating your own children the world would be a better place. Until that happens, don't criticize me or my children, especially when you don't have a flippin' clue what your talking about.
Ann
Normally, I'd give you a good tongue lashing and tell you to mind your own damn business, but since you decided to attack my mothering skills and my children, I'll leave it with this...
For your information, my kids are happy, well educated, funny, smart, and well adjusted. They get along well with other kids, and are secure in who they are and how much they are loved, not only by their parents, but their extended family.
Just because I don't let them watch Sponge Bob, DOES NOT mean that I have a problem with Dora, the Spanish language, anyone from Mexico or keep them on a leash at the grocery store. Oh, that was hilarious by the way.... Actually, for your information, my kids don't really watch that much TV and they're better people for it. They actually have a mother who plays with them every day, takes them places, and provides them with many experiences that other kids do not have. (I know it's a great idea -- you should try it....) But until then, maybe if you'd shut off your stinkin' tv, stop surfing the net for random blogs that you can leave nasty comments full of typos on, learn how to spell and start educating your own children the world would be a better place. Until that happens, don't criticize me or my children, especially when you don't have a flippin' clue what your talking about.
Ann
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Exhausted....
I am sooo tired today. Last night I couldn't sleep at all.... I was tossing and turning for hours. I woke up at 2am and laid there, my mind running through all the stuff I "had to get done" before the baby arrives. The stuff I was coming up with even surprised me. Stuff that any rational person wouldn't even think about, but the nesting instinct has kicked in -- BIG TIME.
Around 4 am, I finally decided that I was starving and needed to eat an entire meal. So downstairs I went and 45 minutes later I was finally ready to get back to bed -- so I could go back to laying in the dark, eyes wide open, and making mental lists of what I needed to do today... Insane!
Anyway, I'm tired. Really tired. Exhausted actually! So when Caleb lays down for his nap in a few minutes, I may try to nap for a a half hour before I have to get Katherine off the bus, fed a snack, and rushed to gymnastics. Oh, it never ends! LOL!!
Around 4 am, I finally decided that I was starving and needed to eat an entire meal. So downstairs I went and 45 minutes later I was finally ready to get back to bed -- so I could go back to laying in the dark, eyes wide open, and making mental lists of what I needed to do today... Insane!
Anyway, I'm tired. Really tired. Exhausted actually! So when Caleb lays down for his nap in a few minutes, I may try to nap for a a half hour before I have to get Katherine off the bus, fed a snack, and rushed to gymnastics. Oh, it never ends! LOL!!
Monday, September 15, 2008
Happy Birthday to my baby!
... who really isn't a baby anymore. He's full of life, overflowing with spunk, and a typical boy in every sense of the word. He jumps more than a kangaroo, laughs louder with each passing day, and loves with every fiber of his being. He has an amazing sense of humor and like every other little three year old, will say anything and everything that's on his mind.... which often makes me want to die of embarrassment, but I wouldn't have it any other way. He's a wonderful little boy and I'm so blessed to have him in my life.
Yesterday we had his big birthday party, and he had a great time. Now... I must confess, his birthday party wasn't the big bash I'd originally planned, but I've got to tell you.... with two weeks (and counting!!) until the baby arrives, I'm exhausted, and it was thrown together in the last minute...... but as long as he had a great time, that's all that matters! So, in Caleb's world it was a success!! Originally, I wanted to grill, but Matt wasn't wild about the idea and since it was cold and windy, we just made food in the house. Fran (Matt's mom) offered to make taverns, and I was ALL OVER it! So, while she made that, I made some sides and dips, etc....
One of the highlights for my little man was having everyone sing "happy birthday" to him. He sat on the kitchen island right behind his cake with a HUGE smile on his face. He couldn't contain the laughter! It was so sweet!
All day, I couldn't help but think about three years ago..... I was in the hospital holding the most precious little boy I'd ever laid my eyes upon. I knew I had a lot to learn. Up until that point, my life was filled with princess dresses, tea parties and Barbies. All of a sudden, overalls, trucks and dirt invaded my world, and I knew very little about little boy games. I was nervous. More than anything I wanted to be the type of mommy he deserved, and hopefully, three years later, I've done an OK job.... I remember praying that I would be good mom to a little boy, and now I can't imagine not having him in my life. It is such a rewarding and fulfilling job, and my heart literally overflows with love for him.
Now.... life has not been all rosy lately. I'm getting bigger by the day, my nerves are shorting out, and little things that I normally wouldn't think about, totally get under my skin. It's insane. I'm achy, tired and cranky. Lately, I've been having severe cramps in my lower abdomen. They hurt so badly that they're taking my breath away..... and unlike contractions, they don't come and go.... Oh, no.... either the pain is there or it's not. At Caleb's party, I had CONSTANT pain in my belly for about an hour and it didn't leave for even a minute. I was about in tears and sweating like pig. It was so bad I was getting lightheaded... UUUUUGH! However, this "pain" only happens occasionally. It's not like contractions that come and go, I either have it, or I don't, which is good, I guess.....
In good news ... life is about to get easier! Today Danyel and I interviewed a new cleaning lady and both fell in love with her on the spot. If she does half of what she says she will, it's worth every penny. Literally, she does it all, and when she's done, my house will shine like the sun! I can't wait!! She's going to start on September 30, which is the day I'm due, so if I'm not around, Danyel will let her in, and I will come home to a house that sparkles and smells fresh and new. To say I'm thrilled about this is the understatement of the year!!
Which reminds me... one more thing to add to the "honey-do" list. We need a keypad on the garage. I've been meaning to have Matt put one in for ages, and it's to the point that it just has to be done, especially, when Libby (cleaning lady) asked me if I wanted to give her the code so she could clean while I'm not here.... She's coming Tuesday mornings, and Caleb has gymnastics, and to be honest, I'd rather not be here while she cleans. So, it'd just be easier.....
In other Caleb news..... Today he had his three year checkup. He weighed 29 pounds (10th percentile) and was 35.5 inches tall (25th percentile), and is healthy as could be! I had to laugh.... before Dr. Jon came in, the nurse asked me tons of questions ... does he go to daycare, is he around smoke, do I have any concerns about speech or hearing, etc... Finally, she looked at me and said, "do you have behavioral concerns?" UUUUUHHHH, define that please, because I've got a list a mile long! LOL!! But no, in general, he's a typical three year old boy full of energy! Ha! I mean really... what kind of a question is that???
I know I've said this a million times, but we seriously have the best pediatrician. He's so wonderful with the kids, and a great doctor as well. What more could I ask for??? Anyway, when he arrived in the room, he and Caleb instantly started laughing and calling each other "dude" and "little dude". Jon sat him on the bench next to me, and started looking him over. He was down on Caleb's level, and was sitting so that both of Caleb's legs were in between his knees. I'm not sure if this makes sense or not, but essentially Jon was sitting on his stool with his legs on the outside of Caleb's knees.... Anyway, when he started checking the reflexes on Caleb's knees, Caleb started laughing uncontrollably. He couldn't believe that Jon could make his foot kick by hitting his knee with the stethoscope. Jon missed "the spot" on the second knee, so Caleb gave him this huge fake laugh and kicked him right between the legs. Oh man... we were all rolling to the point of tears. It's just soooo Caleb, and totally caught Jon off guard! LOL!!! A few minutes later, Jon was asking Caleb for a "five" and he put his hand over Caleb's lap and then would pull his hand out so that Caleb would hit himself. He'd then razz Caleb about it, and they would both laugh. The third time he asked Caleb for five, Caleb looked him and said, "I know this game" and he intentionally DIDN'T try to hit Jon's hand, but went straight for his own lap. Jon was about in tears, and told me that Caleb had one of the best little personalities on a three year old he'd ever seen! Caleb looked at Jon and said, "Hey Dude, I'm on fire!" OMG it was too funny!!
Yesterday we had his big birthday party, and he had a great time. Now... I must confess, his birthday party wasn't the big bash I'd originally planned, but I've got to tell you.... with two weeks (and counting!!) until the baby arrives, I'm exhausted, and it was thrown together in the last minute...... but as long as he had a great time, that's all that matters! So, in Caleb's world it was a success!! Originally, I wanted to grill, but Matt wasn't wild about the idea and since it was cold and windy, we just made food in the house. Fran (Matt's mom) offered to make taverns, and I was ALL OVER it! So, while she made that, I made some sides and dips, etc....
One of the highlights for my little man was having everyone sing "happy birthday" to him. He sat on the kitchen island right behind his cake with a HUGE smile on his face. He couldn't contain the laughter! It was so sweet!
All day, I couldn't help but think about three years ago..... I was in the hospital holding the most precious little boy I'd ever laid my eyes upon. I knew I had a lot to learn. Up until that point, my life was filled with princess dresses, tea parties and Barbies. All of a sudden, overalls, trucks and dirt invaded my world, and I knew very little about little boy games. I was nervous. More than anything I wanted to be the type of mommy he deserved, and hopefully, three years later, I've done an OK job.... I remember praying that I would be good mom to a little boy, and now I can't imagine not having him in my life. It is such a rewarding and fulfilling job, and my heart literally overflows with love for him.
Now.... life has not been all rosy lately. I'm getting bigger by the day, my nerves are shorting out, and little things that I normally wouldn't think about, totally get under my skin. It's insane. I'm achy, tired and cranky. Lately, I've been having severe cramps in my lower abdomen. They hurt so badly that they're taking my breath away..... and unlike contractions, they don't come and go.... Oh, no.... either the pain is there or it's not. At Caleb's party, I had CONSTANT pain in my belly for about an hour and it didn't leave for even a minute. I was about in tears and sweating like pig. It was so bad I was getting lightheaded... UUUUUGH! However, this "pain" only happens occasionally. It's not like contractions that come and go, I either have it, or I don't, which is good, I guess.....
In good news ... life is about to get easier! Today Danyel and I interviewed a new cleaning lady and both fell in love with her on the spot. If she does half of what she says she will, it's worth every penny. Literally, she does it all, and when she's done, my house will shine like the sun! I can't wait!! She's going to start on September 30, which is the day I'm due, so if I'm not around, Danyel will let her in, and I will come home to a house that sparkles and smells fresh and new. To say I'm thrilled about this is the understatement of the year!!
Which reminds me... one more thing to add to the "honey-do" list. We need a keypad on the garage. I've been meaning to have Matt put one in for ages, and it's to the point that it just has to be done, especially, when Libby (cleaning lady) asked me if I wanted to give her the code so she could clean while I'm not here.... She's coming Tuesday mornings, and Caleb has gymnastics, and to be honest, I'd rather not be here while she cleans. So, it'd just be easier.....
In other Caleb news..... Today he had his three year checkup. He weighed 29 pounds (10th percentile) and was 35.5 inches tall (25th percentile), and is healthy as could be! I had to laugh.... before Dr. Jon came in, the nurse asked me tons of questions ... does he go to daycare, is he around smoke, do I have any concerns about speech or hearing, etc... Finally, she looked at me and said, "do you have behavioral concerns?" UUUUUHHHH, define that please, because I've got a list a mile long! LOL!! But no, in general, he's a typical three year old boy full of energy! Ha! I mean really... what kind of a question is that???
I know I've said this a million times, but we seriously have the best pediatrician. He's so wonderful with the kids, and a great doctor as well. What more could I ask for??? Anyway, when he arrived in the room, he and Caleb instantly started laughing and calling each other "dude" and "little dude". Jon sat him on the bench next to me, and started looking him over. He was down on Caleb's level, and was sitting so that both of Caleb's legs were in between his knees. I'm not sure if this makes sense or not, but essentially Jon was sitting on his stool with his legs on the outside of Caleb's knees.... Anyway, when he started checking the reflexes on Caleb's knees, Caleb started laughing uncontrollably. He couldn't believe that Jon could make his foot kick by hitting his knee with the stethoscope. Jon missed "the spot" on the second knee, so Caleb gave him this huge fake laugh and kicked him right between the legs. Oh man... we were all rolling to the point of tears. It's just soooo Caleb, and totally caught Jon off guard! LOL!!! A few minutes later, Jon was asking Caleb for a "five" and he put his hand over Caleb's lap and then would pull his hand out so that Caleb would hit himself. He'd then razz Caleb about it, and they would both laugh. The third time he asked Caleb for five, Caleb looked him and said, "I know this game" and he intentionally DIDN'T try to hit Jon's hand, but went straight for his own lap. Jon was about in tears, and told me that Caleb had one of the best little personalities on a three year old he'd ever seen! Caleb looked at Jon and said, "Hey Dude, I'm on fire!" OMG it was too funny!!
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
I'm lazy....
OK -- I "should" be cleaning for Caleb's big birthday party this weekend, but let's just say, I'm not exactly motivated.... So here I sit, surfing the net and blogging. Really productive, I know! I'm justifying my pure laziness by "listening" for Caleb. I laid him down for his nap and he was less than enthusiastic about a little shut-eye! Wish I felt the same way! What I wouldn't kill for a nap right now!
Caleb had his first Kindermusik class of the fall this morning, and he really loved it. He saw several old friends from last year and was totally into playing the instruments. It's so fun to watch him develop over time. Last year he could be squirley at times (imagine that LOL!) but today, he was like a different kid. He participated at every opportunity and when he was playing instruments he followed along with the teacher -- rather than doing whatever he wanted. So, I'm optimistic that this semester will only get better.
Oh -- one little "hiccup" though... When we got to class today he sat by his little friend, Andrew, and out of the blue, Caleb looks at him and announces, "I have a really good hooker". Oh yes, laughter followed. Andrew's mom tried to correct him, but Caleb would have NONE of that. "My pop-pops said I have a good hooker"! I swear the kid doesn't forget a thing! Monday night we went over to the p's house for dinner and my dad and Caleb were playing ball and frisbee in the front lawn. After Caleb threw the ball to him, my dad said, "Wow Caleb, you have quite the hooker"! I shot him a "please think about what you're saying" kind of look, and my dad quickly changed the terminology to "curve ball" but in Caleb's mind, he's got a good hooker! Great! One more thing I can thank my dad for! LOL!
After we got home today I went through Katherine's room and started to try and figure out what to do with some of the stuff. I swear, the girl has a million stuffed animals! What I wouldn't give to "lose" a few! She doesn't play with them EVER, but just can't part with the space sucking, dust collectors. So, I've made a vow... NEVER will I EVER buy anyone a stuffed animal for a gift EVER AGAIN!!
Caleb had his first Kindermusik class of the fall this morning, and he really loved it. He saw several old friends from last year and was totally into playing the instruments. It's so fun to watch him develop over time. Last year he could be squirley at times (imagine that LOL!) but today, he was like a different kid. He participated at every opportunity and when he was playing instruments he followed along with the teacher -- rather than doing whatever he wanted. So, I'm optimistic that this semester will only get better.
Oh -- one little "hiccup" though... When we got to class today he sat by his little friend, Andrew, and out of the blue, Caleb looks at him and announces, "I have a really good hooker". Oh yes, laughter followed. Andrew's mom tried to correct him, but Caleb would have NONE of that. "My pop-pops said I have a good hooker"! I swear the kid doesn't forget a thing! Monday night we went over to the p's house for dinner and my dad and Caleb were playing ball and frisbee in the front lawn. After Caleb threw the ball to him, my dad said, "Wow Caleb, you have quite the hooker"! I shot him a "please think about what you're saying" kind of look, and my dad quickly changed the terminology to "curve ball" but in Caleb's mind, he's got a good hooker! Great! One more thing I can thank my dad for! LOL!
After we got home today I went through Katherine's room and started to try and figure out what to do with some of the stuff. I swear, the girl has a million stuffed animals! What I wouldn't give to "lose" a few! She doesn't play with them EVER, but just can't part with the space sucking, dust collectors. So, I've made a vow... NEVER will I EVER buy anyone a stuffed animal for a gift EVER AGAIN!!
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
Gymnast #2...
Not only do we have one gymnast in the family, but now there's TWO. That's right.... TWO! Which means, more somersaults, running around and jumping off things, and in general more chaos!! Not that we don't have enough of that already! LOL!
Today was Caleb's first day of gymnastics, and he was BEYOND excited! He couldn't wait to get into the little gym and "try out the bars"! The problem was getting there in the first place.... You see.... Caleb is a pretty preppy kid. If he had his way, he'd wear a shirt with a collar (AKA polo) and khaki shorts every day. That's it. In his wardrobe, he has 20+ polo style shirts and a token t-shirt or two that we've gotten from other people. Since the weather has started to turn chilly, we've transitioned from short sleeve shirts to long sleeve shirts, but the style remained the same.... which is good for the home team! LOL!! I've had to force jeans on him, and let me assure you..... it hasn't been easy. HOWEVER, getting the kid dressed for gymnastics today about did me in! In fact, we almost didn't make it. He was so excited to go, but adamant that he wasn't wearing "athletic style" clothing under any circumstance. WHAT IS THAT? A little boy who refuses to wear the mesh NIKE shorts? I don't get it! If someone told me to wear that every day, I'd probably jump at the chance! Evidently he thinks anything "athletic" in nature is for swimming only. It's "swimming clothes".
After about 20 minutes of resisting wearing NIKE shorts citing such compelling reasons as (i)they are swimming clothes; (ii) they're too big; (iii) they don't feel comfy; and the ever popular; (iv) I hate these... they don't look good on me, he FINALLY got dressed. After all, it was either that or he wasn't going!
When we got there, he couldn't wait to get into the little gym, and was the first one inside. However, when it came time to stretch, he wasn't going to have it. Nope. Not a chance. He was NOT about to march around in a circle and touch his toes. He could have cared less if ever did a "table top" in class and told his instructor that he could do them at home so he didn't need to practice them in class. GREAT! Anyway, I had to sit in there during the stretch time, as he was ready to bail. However, as soon as it was time to get on the trampoline, he was all about it! I was able to leave, and he was up to his usual antics..... jumping around, performing his running somersaults and cheering for himself at every opportunity. It was great to watch him having so much fun!
After the trampoline obstacle course, came the bars, and let's just say he was in Heaven!! He was swinging from those things like a monkey and after each one, he'd cheer for himself and yell "I did it!!". You couldn't help but smile! Oh, and he told everyone he saw today about his gymnastics class. He's so proud... which of course makes me proud of him!
Today was Caleb's first day of gymnastics, and he was BEYOND excited! He couldn't wait to get into the little gym and "try out the bars"! The problem was getting there in the first place.... You see.... Caleb is a pretty preppy kid. If he had his way, he'd wear a shirt with a collar (AKA polo) and khaki shorts every day. That's it. In his wardrobe, he has 20+ polo style shirts and a token t-shirt or two that we've gotten from other people. Since the weather has started to turn chilly, we've transitioned from short sleeve shirts to long sleeve shirts, but the style remained the same.... which is good for the home team! LOL!! I've had to force jeans on him, and let me assure you..... it hasn't been easy. HOWEVER, getting the kid dressed for gymnastics today about did me in! In fact, we almost didn't make it. He was so excited to go, but adamant that he wasn't wearing "athletic style" clothing under any circumstance. WHAT IS THAT? A little boy who refuses to wear the mesh NIKE shorts? I don't get it! If someone told me to wear that every day, I'd probably jump at the chance! Evidently he thinks anything "athletic" in nature is for swimming only. It's "swimming clothes".
After about 20 minutes of resisting wearing NIKE shorts citing such compelling reasons as (i)they are swimming clothes; (ii) they're too big; (iii) they don't feel comfy; and the ever popular; (iv) I hate these... they don't look good on me, he FINALLY got dressed. After all, it was either that or he wasn't going!
When we got there, he couldn't wait to get into the little gym, and was the first one inside. However, when it came time to stretch, he wasn't going to have it. Nope. Not a chance. He was NOT about to march around in a circle and touch his toes. He could have cared less if ever did a "table top" in class and told his instructor that he could do them at home so he didn't need to practice them in class. GREAT! Anyway, I had to sit in there during the stretch time, as he was ready to bail. However, as soon as it was time to get on the trampoline, he was all about it! I was able to leave, and he was up to his usual antics..... jumping around, performing his running somersaults and cheering for himself at every opportunity. It was great to watch him having so much fun!
After the trampoline obstacle course, came the bars, and let's just say he was in Heaven!! He was swinging from those things like a monkey and after each one, he'd cheer for himself and yell "I did it!!". You couldn't help but smile! Oh, and he told everyone he saw today about his gymnastics class. He's so proud... which of course makes me proud of him!
Monday, September 8, 2008
Another milestone passed....
AAAHHHH, yes..... My baby girl has reached yet another milestone in her life. Yet another rite of passage crossed. Another wish granted in her young life....
She has been begging to have her ears pierced for quite some time. I'd been putting it off and really thought that she should wait for at least another year or two. But, after many conversations, she's convinced me that she's ready. She knew it would hurt. She knew that regardless of how much she may regret it, once one ear was pierced, I'd make her do the other one. There was NO turning back. She was fully prepared.
So yesterday after church we took her to the mall to Club Libby Lu, which is a little girl's dream store. It's totally girly and packed full of "must haves" for any little princess. Katherine was in her element. She was in shopping heaven!!
She picked out the "perfect" set of light pink heart crystal earrings and sat right up in the chair. They put her hair up (with plenty of sparkle hairspray), cleaned her ears off, measured off where'd they'd put the holes with military precision, and then shot them both through at the same time. I took a bazillion pictures, but (yet again) can't upload them on this new computer as I haven't installed PSE. I promise to do it soon though! It HAS to be done before the baby arrives. Yes, one more thing on my "must do" list!!
I was shocked at what a big girl she was. I fully expected some tears. I expected her to chicken out and make them wait... But no... not my Katherine. She sat there as still as could be and looked straight at me -- and the camera.
BUT, she caught me.... For the record, I'm going to blame it on the hormones, but not every eye was dry. I sat there, kneeling beside her with tears running down my face. What on earth is WRONG with me? Yes, it must be the hormones.... or the realization that my baby girl really isn't a "baby" anymore.... UUUUUUGH!
She has been begging to have her ears pierced for quite some time. I'd been putting it off and really thought that she should wait for at least another year or two. But, after many conversations, she's convinced me that she's ready. She knew it would hurt. She knew that regardless of how much she may regret it, once one ear was pierced, I'd make her do the other one. There was NO turning back. She was fully prepared.
So yesterday after church we took her to the mall to Club Libby Lu, which is a little girl's dream store. It's totally girly and packed full of "must haves" for any little princess. Katherine was in her element. She was in shopping heaven!!
She picked out the "perfect" set of light pink heart crystal earrings and sat right up in the chair. They put her hair up (with plenty of sparkle hairspray), cleaned her ears off, measured off where'd they'd put the holes with military precision, and then shot them both through at the same time. I took a bazillion pictures, but (yet again) can't upload them on this new computer as I haven't installed PSE. I promise to do it soon though! It HAS to be done before the baby arrives. Yes, one more thing on my "must do" list!!
I was shocked at what a big girl she was. I fully expected some tears. I expected her to chicken out and make them wait... But no... not my Katherine. She sat there as still as could be and looked straight at me -- and the camera.
BUT, she caught me.... For the record, I'm going to blame it on the hormones, but not every eye was dry. I sat there, kneeling beside her with tears running down my face. What on earth is WRONG with me? Yes, it must be the hormones.... or the realization that my baby girl really isn't a "baby" anymore.... UUUUUUGH!
Saturday, September 6, 2008
Little Hawkeyes
Today was a big day! It was Katherine and Caleb's first ever Hawkeye game and from all accounts they had a great time.
Matt and I got them up at 5:45 and got them all decked out in their Hawkeye gear for the big day. Surprisingly enough, Katherine bounded out of bed with a smile on her face and was raring to go. She was sooooo excited! Caleb took a few minutes to wake up, but when he did, he couldn't wait to see the Hawkeyes.
On the way out of town they stopped to pick up my dad and grab some snacks for the road. I was *sure* they'd both fall back asleep on the way to Iowa City, but nope, they were way too excited for that! Now -- in the Hanson household, 5:45 is VERY early, so I was praying Matt wouldn't have to deal with a ginormous meltdown in the middle of the game. Thankfully, everything went well!!
When they got home tonight, I couldn't wait to hear what they'd say about it. I asked them all about what they did, who they saw, and how much fun they had. They immediately went into how great the BAND was. Yes, that's right, the BAND.
Katherine told me that her favorite parts of the Hawkeye game were (1) the band; (2) the gymnastics girls; (3) the cheerleaders; and (4) the popcorn. Caleb chimed in that he loved the cheerleaders and gymnastics girls too. Oh, and the popcorn was GREAT.
Right after that, they told me that they saw the Hawkeyes too. I had to laugh. It was nothing more than an afterthought for them. Watching the game was DEFINITELY not the highlight of their day! Thankfully they sat right by the cheerleaders and could watch them the whole game! LOL!!
They went on to tell me that they had breakfast with Isaac and Elizabeth and then went over to his friends' house. (AKA tailgate). After the game they went over to Isaac's apartment and reported that it was really nice, and in Katherine's words, "surprisingly clean".
In a nutshell, I got a detailed account of their day, and it had nothing to do with the game they saw. When they got home, poor Katherine wasn't even sure why there were guys wearing blue on the field. But that's not what's important. What is important is that they had a wonderful day in Iowa City spending time with their Daddy and Pop-pops.
Oh, and the other important thing... I got to sleep in for the first time in ages, got my hair cut and colored, and feel like a new woman! Life is good!!
Matt and I got them up at 5:45 and got them all decked out in their Hawkeye gear for the big day. Surprisingly enough, Katherine bounded out of bed with a smile on her face and was raring to go. She was sooooo excited! Caleb took a few minutes to wake up, but when he did, he couldn't wait to see the Hawkeyes.
On the way out of town they stopped to pick up my dad and grab some snacks for the road. I was *sure* they'd both fall back asleep on the way to Iowa City, but nope, they were way too excited for that! Now -- in the Hanson household, 5:45 is VERY early, so I was praying Matt wouldn't have to deal with a ginormous meltdown in the middle of the game. Thankfully, everything went well!!
When they got home tonight, I couldn't wait to hear what they'd say about it. I asked them all about what they did, who they saw, and how much fun they had. They immediately went into how great the BAND was. Yes, that's right, the BAND.
Katherine told me that her favorite parts of the Hawkeye game were (1) the band; (2) the gymnastics girls; (3) the cheerleaders; and (4) the popcorn. Caleb chimed in that he loved the cheerleaders and gymnastics girls too. Oh, and the popcorn was GREAT.
Right after that, they told me that they saw the Hawkeyes too. I had to laugh. It was nothing more than an afterthought for them. Watching the game was DEFINITELY not the highlight of their day! Thankfully they sat right by the cheerleaders and could watch them the whole game! LOL!!
They went on to tell me that they had breakfast with Isaac and Elizabeth and then went over to his friends' house. (AKA tailgate). After the game they went over to Isaac's apartment and reported that it was really nice, and in Katherine's words, "surprisingly clean".
In a nutshell, I got a detailed account of their day, and it had nothing to do with the game they saw. When they got home, poor Katherine wasn't even sure why there were guys wearing blue on the field. But that's not what's important. What is important is that they had a wonderful day in Iowa City spending time with their Daddy and Pop-pops.
Oh, and the other important thing... I got to sleep in for the first time in ages, got my hair cut and colored, and feel like a new woman! Life is good!!
Friday, September 5, 2008
I almost forgot....
Tonight Katherine had gymnastics at Chow's. Before we went in, I had the "you need to be a good boy for Mommy, there will be a lot of people in there" talk. We had a meeting of the minds, and he promised to sit quietly and watch the Katherine. He was being really good, UNTIL....
The lady sitting on the bench next to us lets one rip - very loudly. Caleb just couldn't contain himself.
"Did you hear that Mommy? Someone just had a tummy burp!!".
** Tummy burp is a Katherine original. When she was little she started calling "farts" "toots" etc... a "tummy burp", and I just couldn't correct her. It was so innocent, so precious, so funny, such a trademark comment, that I just didn't mess it up. Needless to say, Caleb has adopted it, and thankfully, most people don't immediately know what they're talking about. Remember when you first heard it, Danyel????
I tried to ignore him.... I really did. I just looked at him, smiled and nodded so that he'd know I heard it too. Would he just let it drop? Oh, hell no. Not a chance. Not Caleb. He's obsessed with anything stinky and this was no exception.
He starts YELLING. "I smell something Mommy. Something is stinky! Do you smell that Mommy? What is it? I think it's the tummy burp from that lady (at this point he's pointing right at her). I SMEEEELLL something stinky!!"
Yet again, he never ceases to amaze me! There are days....... LOL!!
The lady sitting on the bench next to us lets one rip - very loudly. Caleb just couldn't contain himself.
"Did you hear that Mommy? Someone just had a tummy burp!!".
** Tummy burp is a Katherine original. When she was little she started calling "farts" "toots" etc... a "tummy burp", and I just couldn't correct her. It was so innocent, so precious, so funny, such a trademark comment, that I just didn't mess it up. Needless to say, Caleb has adopted it, and thankfully, most people don't immediately know what they're talking about. Remember when you first heard it, Danyel????
I tried to ignore him.... I really did. I just looked at him, smiled and nodded so that he'd know I heard it too. Would he just let it drop? Oh, hell no. Not a chance. Not Caleb. He's obsessed with anything stinky and this was no exception.
He starts YELLING. "I smell something Mommy. Something is stinky! Do you smell that Mommy? What is it? I think it's the tummy burp from that lady (at this point he's pointing right at her). I SMEEEELLL something stinky!!"
Yet again, he never ceases to amaze me! There are days....... LOL!!
Typical day...
Ever since Katherine started Kindergarten, I've been struggling to get her to eat something -- ANYTHING for breakfast. Some days it's a few bites of fruit, some days warm homemade banana bread, some days it's blueberry muffins, today it was cinnamon rolls. Even though they weren't homemade, they were fresh from the oven, and quite honestly, I thought she'd eat a few bites. She did eat a few bites .... emphasis on the FEW. UUUUUGH!
** As a side note, we're not breakfast people. Before she started school, we may eat "breakfast" around 10 or 10:30, and lunch around 2. We ate when we were hungry, not when the clock demanded it.....
So this morning, when the kids got out of bed, the house smelled yummy. Katherine immediately told me she wasn't hungry and to save her one for an after school snack. Shocking, I know! LOL!! Caleb immediately wanted to start eating. Again -- shocker there!!
So while I got Katherine dressed and combed her hair, Caleb started eating his breakfast in my bed. He made several comments about how yummy his cinnamon roll was, and how great it smelled. (He loves to cook so much that Matt has started calling him Ratatouille -- he's all about the spices and ingredients!).
At this point, I took Katherine into my bathroom so that I could brush her teeth. When I came back into the bedroom, I find Caleb sitting in MY bed, his shirt hiked up to his armpits and rubbing the cinnamon roll all over his belly. What in the world was he thinking?!?!?!?!?!?
I give him the look that says 'what are you doing??' and he says, "Mommy, this cinnamon roll smells soooo yummy. I want to smell yummy, just like it, so I do this! I'm being a good boy!" Are you kidding me???? My not yet three year old is trying to use his breakfast like some kind of cheap cologne..... AAAHHHHH, really, how can I argue with that?? So I clean him up, force feed Katherine a few bites, and we walk her outside and watch her get on the bus.... which is exactly where chaos #2 of the morning occurs....
It's starting to get cold outside at night and thus the mornings are brisk. Caleb decides that he's cold, and decides to wait inside for me. He typically sits on the steps and watches out the door. Today, he decides to "hold the door open for Mommy", and instead of opening the door, he locks the dang thing. That's right. I'm standing outside in all my morning glory while my little man takes the opportunity to lock me out. Thankfully, it was the screen door, and I could easily talk to him. Despite 5 minutes of turning the knob and trying to open it back up, it just wasn't working... Nope. Not a chance. It's 8:15 and I have an OB appointment downtown at 9:45 and since Caleb isn't invited to come with me anymore, I have to drop him off at my mom's house. So, what was I to do? The only thing I could do.... I pulled back the screen (thankfully not ripping it) and break into my own house. UUUUGH! Needless to say, Caleb and I had to have the "please don't turn any knobs without asking Mommy first" conversation.
My OB appointment was good -- pretty uneventful. I'll be 37 weeks on Tuesday (I'm officially due on September 30) and everything is on target. I've gained a total of 12.5 pounds, measuring right on track, my blood pressure is fine (68/110) and my strep B test came back negative. All good. I told the doctor that I thought the baby was dropping as I have a lot of pressure at the base of my belly and my lower back has been hurting. As he was measuring my belly, he said that not only as the baby NOT dropped at all, but I'm carrying unusually high. I guess that explains my feet in my right ribs all day long.... which have also been painful. He said that he expects the pain to get worse before it gets better. GREAT! Oh well, it's a small price to pay for the big miracle that will soon enter our lives.
Two other random things....
1. I was downstairs today getting the cord for the new laptop and Caleb hops on the treadmill and starts trying to push buttons, pull cords, and run in place. Yea, he learns all this from me! LOL!! I told him to get off and that the treadmill wasn't a toy (yes, we've had this conversation before...). Anyway, we then have this conversation...
Caleb: Why?
Me: Because the treadmill is for Mommy and Daddy only. It's not a toy.
Caleb: Daddy can be on the treadmill too?
Me: Yes, he can.
Caleb: Well, I'm a Daddy so I can be on here.
Me: You are NOT a daddy yet, Little Man.
Caleb. YES I AM!! That's what Katherine calls me when we play house!!
OK, I mean really.... How can you argue with that? He does have a point! LOL.
#2....
When Matt's mom was here last week, I tried to make an appointment to get my hair cut and colored. It didn't work out to have it done last week, but he just had a cancellation for this Saturday at 11:45. Great! Matt will be home on Saturday and I can take off and get my hair done... Little did I realize that the appointment was right during the Hawkeye game, which is one of Matt's serious addictions....
Since he didn't want to miss the game, and I was going to be gone for a couple of hours right during it, he decided to take the kids to Iowa City with my dad. So, WOO-HOO!! Caleb gets to go to his first game, I get a little time to myself, and we're all happy!! They are meeting Isaac and Elizabeth for breakfast, so they're leaving at the crack of dawn -- 6:15. So, after they leave, I'm going to shower, relax and scrapbook for a while. Can't wait!!
** As a side note, we're not breakfast people. Before she started school, we may eat "breakfast" around 10 or 10:30, and lunch around 2. We ate when we were hungry, not when the clock demanded it.....
So this morning, when the kids got out of bed, the house smelled yummy. Katherine immediately told me she wasn't hungry and to save her one for an after school snack. Shocking, I know! LOL!! Caleb immediately wanted to start eating. Again -- shocker there!!
So while I got Katherine dressed and combed her hair, Caleb started eating his breakfast in my bed. He made several comments about how yummy his cinnamon roll was, and how great it smelled. (He loves to cook so much that Matt has started calling him Ratatouille -- he's all about the spices and ingredients!).
At this point, I took Katherine into my bathroom so that I could brush her teeth. When I came back into the bedroom, I find Caleb sitting in MY bed, his shirt hiked up to his armpits and rubbing the cinnamon roll all over his belly. What in the world was he thinking?!?!?!?!?!?
I give him the look that says 'what are you doing??' and he says, "Mommy, this cinnamon roll smells soooo yummy. I want to smell yummy, just like it, so I do this! I'm being a good boy!" Are you kidding me???? My not yet three year old is trying to use his breakfast like some kind of cheap cologne..... AAAHHHHH, really, how can I argue with that?? So I clean him up, force feed Katherine a few bites, and we walk her outside and watch her get on the bus.... which is exactly where chaos #2 of the morning occurs....
It's starting to get cold outside at night and thus the mornings are brisk. Caleb decides that he's cold, and decides to wait inside for me. He typically sits on the steps and watches out the door. Today, he decides to "hold the door open for Mommy", and instead of opening the door, he locks the dang thing. That's right. I'm standing outside in all my morning glory while my little man takes the opportunity to lock me out. Thankfully, it was the screen door, and I could easily talk to him. Despite 5 minutes of turning the knob and trying to open it back up, it just wasn't working... Nope. Not a chance. It's 8:15 and I have an OB appointment downtown at 9:45 and since Caleb isn't invited to come with me anymore, I have to drop him off at my mom's house. So, what was I to do? The only thing I could do.... I pulled back the screen (thankfully not ripping it) and break into my own house. UUUUGH! Needless to say, Caleb and I had to have the "please don't turn any knobs without asking Mommy first" conversation.
My OB appointment was good -- pretty uneventful. I'll be 37 weeks on Tuesday (I'm officially due on September 30) and everything is on target. I've gained a total of 12.5 pounds, measuring right on track, my blood pressure is fine (68/110) and my strep B test came back negative. All good. I told the doctor that I thought the baby was dropping as I have a lot of pressure at the base of my belly and my lower back has been hurting. As he was measuring my belly, he said that not only as the baby NOT dropped at all, but I'm carrying unusually high. I guess that explains my feet in my right ribs all day long.... which have also been painful. He said that he expects the pain to get worse before it gets better. GREAT! Oh well, it's a small price to pay for the big miracle that will soon enter our lives.
Two other random things....
1. I was downstairs today getting the cord for the new laptop and Caleb hops on the treadmill and starts trying to push buttons, pull cords, and run in place. Yea, he learns all this from me! LOL!! I told him to get off and that the treadmill wasn't a toy (yes, we've had this conversation before...). Anyway, we then have this conversation...
Caleb: Why?
Me: Because the treadmill is for Mommy and Daddy only. It's not a toy.
Caleb: Daddy can be on the treadmill too?
Me: Yes, he can.
Caleb: Well, I'm a Daddy so I can be on here.
Me: You are NOT a daddy yet, Little Man.
Caleb. YES I AM!! That's what Katherine calls me when we play house!!
OK, I mean really.... How can you argue with that? He does have a point! LOL.
#2....
When Matt's mom was here last week, I tried to make an appointment to get my hair cut and colored. It didn't work out to have it done last week, but he just had a cancellation for this Saturday at 11:45. Great! Matt will be home on Saturday and I can take off and get my hair done... Little did I realize that the appointment was right during the Hawkeye game, which is one of Matt's serious addictions....
Since he didn't want to miss the game, and I was going to be gone for a couple of hours right during it, he decided to take the kids to Iowa City with my dad. So, WOO-HOO!! Caleb gets to go to his first game, I get a little time to myself, and we're all happy!! They are meeting Isaac and Elizabeth for breakfast, so they're leaving at the crack of dawn -- 6:15. So, after they leave, I'm going to shower, relax and scrapbook for a while. Can't wait!!
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
Insomnia....
is the worst! Last night I got a total of about two hours, and man... it makes you tired the next day! I think I finally fell asleep around midnight and then woke up at 2 unable to fall back asleep. I tried to scrapbook, ate a bowl of cereal, watched the news, and then sat outside for a while. It was so frustrating!! When I came back upstairs, I found Riley (our dog) cuddling with Matt, both of them totally peaceful! Me, not so much!
When Matt's alarm went off at 5:30, I turned on the TV and watched the news until Caleb woke up at 6:55. Fun times!!
Tonight we had Parent's Night at Katherine's school. It was great to sit in her classroom and hear about what she does every day, and the different things she's learning. I must say, I LOVE her teacher! She's super enthusiastic about her job, absolutely loves teaching and the kids, and is very involved. She's on tons of committees and is always trying out the "latest and greatest" teaching techniques. Oh, and when I was talking to her about Katherine, she told me that "Katherine is such a sweet and polite girl. She gets along with everyone and is great to have in class". So good to hear... especially since the first week was meltdown central in the Hanson household!
Oh, and BIG news.... When Katherine got home from school today, she had a snack, we talked about her day, and she played PERFECTLY with Caleb. We had dinner as a family, and then they went over to my parent's house while we went to the Parent's Night thing at school. Guess what?!?!?!? NO MELTDOWNS! No crying, no whining, no fit throwing. Just my little girl back to her normal self! Such a relief! She was out cold shortly after 8:30 tonight, but other than being tired, life was GOOD!
When Matt's alarm went off at 5:30, I turned on the TV and watched the news until Caleb woke up at 6:55. Fun times!!
Tonight we had Parent's Night at Katherine's school. It was great to sit in her classroom and hear about what she does every day, and the different things she's learning. I must say, I LOVE her teacher! She's super enthusiastic about her job, absolutely loves teaching and the kids, and is very involved. She's on tons of committees and is always trying out the "latest and greatest" teaching techniques. Oh, and when I was talking to her about Katherine, she told me that "Katherine is such a sweet and polite girl. She gets along with everyone and is great to have in class". So good to hear... especially since the first week was meltdown central in the Hanson household!
Oh, and BIG news.... When Katherine got home from school today, she had a snack, we talked about her day, and she played PERFECTLY with Caleb. We had dinner as a family, and then they went over to my parent's house while we went to the Parent's Night thing at school. Guess what?!?!?!? NO MELTDOWNS! No crying, no whining, no fit throwing. Just my little girl back to her normal self! Such a relief! She was out cold shortly after 8:30 tonight, but other than being tired, life was GOOD!
Monday, September 1, 2008
Finally!!
I am back in business!!! That's right... for a solid week I had no Internet access, no computer at all. It was terrible, and I felt so out of touch with the outside world....
Here's a quick rundown for you....
Matt left last Sunday night for London. He went for the week on business to visit the home office of Aviva, where he works. His mom came to spend the week with the kids and I which was BEYOND wonderful. She helped out so much, and the kids loved having her around.
Let's see... where to start....
Last Thursday was Katherine's first day of school, and holy cow, it was one emotional day for me. I literally spent the entire morning in tears. It was just awful... I woke her up that morning, made her pancakes for breakfast -- which are her absolute fave (and which she refused to eat), took tons of pictures and then Matt and I drove her to school, where I took more pictures. She looked so adorable, and yet so tiny at the same time. It seems impossible that she's ready for Kindergarten already... Where has the time gone???
Ironically enough, it was a cool and dreary day -- raining pretty much all morning and windy. How fitting that the weather matched my mood so perfectly???? UUUUGH!
As I walked her into the school, I saw so many of our neighbors and friends. It was reassuring to know that so many of our friends were sending their little ones off to school for the first time, and that Katherine would have so familiar faces around. And, yes, I was in tears. Actually, they were streaming down my face. As I walked Katherine into her room, and turned to put her backpack, coat and umbrella into her cubby, I just couldn't help myself..... The flood gates opened!
Katherine was so excited to be there. She went right over to a group of girls and started talking to them and playing at one of the centers. I walked out of her room without a hug from my baby girl, and then got thinking.... how could I possibly leave without a few more pictures??? Yea, I couldn't..... So I went back in, and thankfully have a big camera that you actually hold up to your face (versus a little point and shoot that you hold out and look through the viewfinder) so that Katherine couldn't see my tears. She went over to her chair and I took some more pictures... All of a sudden, she said, "Mommy, why are you crying?" Of course I told her that I wasn't, but Caleb chimed right in and said, "Yes, you are Mommy! There's tears all over your face!" Thanks, buddy!!
Time to exit! Caleb and I went home to drop Matt off and then went over to Andrea's house for a Mom's breakfast... It was so nice to be surrounded by friends. I cried on and off pretty much all morning. Around 11: 15, Caleb came up from the basement, where he was playing with the other kids and said, "Mommy, where's Katherine? I wanna play with Katherine. I miss her sooo much." More tears.... She'd only been gone a couple of hours and he misses her. UUUUGH!
We ended up leaving shortly before 1. It was so nice to actually have something to do for the first day. It made it sooo much easier.
When she got off the bus that night, it seemed like she aged 5 years. She just seemed older, more independent, more "schoolish".... It seemed like part of her innocence was gone. I know it's got to happen, but why????
Let's see... what else.... Oh, it's been a hard first week. Up until last week, Katherine was still taking naps every day. She's just a kid who requires a lot of sleep, and without it, she's a mess. So the first week was really hard. She had lots of meltdowns, tears over basically nothing, talking back and fighting with Caleb. She was acting so out of character, it was strange. I know she's going through a ton of changes right now, but man... it's hard on us all! I only get so many "good" hours a day with her, and quite frankly, I'd rather not spend them watching her cry.
Matt's parents came down Sunday afternoon so that his mom could stay with the kids and I. He left Sunday night for London and was gone all week. I know I already said this, but wow... it was wonderful to have her here! She helped out so much with the kids, laundry, kept me company, helped me get ready for the baby, clean closets, etc.... I must say.... I think it's high time they move down here! I could really get used to having them in town!
Monday morning I tried to open up the computer, and nothing. I couldn't even turn the thing on. Danyel came over and took a peek at it, and still nothing. So I was without a computer or Internet access all week. When Matt got home, we immediately went to Best Buy and made a visit to the Geek Squad. Foolishly, I hadn't backed up pictures recently, so we had to pay $160 for them to get them off the computer and burn them on CD's. OUCH! We decided that it was time to buy a new computer, (rather than pay for all the diagnostic analysis on the old one), so we did that as well. I must say, I LOVE the new one!! I'm sitting on it now, and it's heaven!!
A few highlights from the week....
Monday we ran errands. I went over to a local store and had them design closets for the kid's rooms. We need some kind of organizing system with the new little guy on the way, so it was a perfect time to get it done. Fran helped me clean out the closets, and they were installed on Thursday morning. Soooo nice!
Wednesday night after school and dinner, Fran and I took the kids over to a little pond to feed the ducks. When we got there, there was a guy in his 50's sitting at a picnic bench smoking. As soon as he saw us, he came up and started talking to us -- and Katherine in particular. He asked her for bread, wanted to take pictures of her with his hot pink point and shoot camera (which he did without my permission), and kept trying to get closer and closer to her..... despite the fact that we kept moving away from him. Supposedly, he had just moved up here from Texas, but strangely, he had no accent. HHMMMM..... It was freaky and totally inappropriate. We ended up calling the police who turned out to be nothing more than the Keystone Cops... Initially, they went to the wrong park, and then by the time they did arrive, the guy was gone. It was pretty unsettling....
A little gymnastics update....
Last week, while I was making dinner, Katherine disappeared. She loves to help me cook, and if she's not cooking with me, she's sitting at the island crafting, or playing in the living room. Because it was sooo quiet, I just went to look for her to see what she was up to. Guess where I found her..... In the bathroom, standing on the side of the bathtub, practicing her beam routine. Oh. My. Goodness. Talk about a recipe for disaster! Needless to say, I'm guessing Santa will probably find room in his sleigh for a beam for her. I was going to wait a while longer, but have come to the realization that she's going to do it regardless, so I might as well make sure she's safe! LOL.
This week, she brought home a "What I want to be when I grow up" sheet. Shockingly, she drew a picture of herself in a leotard, the gymnastics floor, beam and bars. Definitely going in the scrapbook! I wasn't shocked, but it did make me smile!!
So, she also was supposed to start at Chow's this week. We are really blessed to have a world class gym miles from our house -- especially since she loves gymnastics so much. Ironically, she didn't want to go. She was nervous, wanted to stay at her current gym, was afraid of the change, didn't know about all the conditioning, on and on and on.... Literally, she wanted no part of it. She wasn't going. Needless to say, I was dumbfounded! I told her that since I paid almost $200, she was going to give it a try, like it or not, and that if she didn't want to stay, she wouldn't get to go back anytime soon. It was just strange. I couldn't figure her out. Here is a girl who loves gymnastics and doesn't want to go to the best gym in the state, if not one of the best in the country....
At the end of the day, I think she was fearful that most of the girls would be much better than she was. I tried to explain to her that it was a recreational class and most of the girls would have little to no gymnastics experience. Boy, was I right!! Katherine was by the most experienced in the class, and from what I could see, the ONLY one who'd ever step foot in the gym before. Her teacher was giving her high-fives and telling her what a good job she was going. So by the time we left, she was on cloud nine and TOTALLY loves Chow's. She can't wait to go back next week. It's amazing what a little praise can do for your confidence! LOL.
Oh, and one more random....
Reason #679 why I love my hubby....
We were talking yesterday about the baby coming, what needs to be done, etc... and he says to me, "What do you think about getting a cleaning lady? Maybe we could have someone come every other week or so and do the deep cleaning..." What does he think I'd think about it??? No brainer there! So, that's my next project! I'm getting a cleaning lady, and as far as I'm concerned, the sooner the better. But really, how wonderful is it that he suggests it???? Pretty wonderful!
I'm off to bed! More updates and pictures soon!
Here's a quick rundown for you....
Matt left last Sunday night for London. He went for the week on business to visit the home office of Aviva, where he works. His mom came to spend the week with the kids and I which was BEYOND wonderful. She helped out so much, and the kids loved having her around.
Let's see... where to start....
Last Thursday was Katherine's first day of school, and holy cow, it was one emotional day for me. I literally spent the entire morning in tears. It was just awful... I woke her up that morning, made her pancakes for breakfast -- which are her absolute fave (and which she refused to eat), took tons of pictures and then Matt and I drove her to school, where I took more pictures. She looked so adorable, and yet so tiny at the same time. It seems impossible that she's ready for Kindergarten already... Where has the time gone???
Ironically enough, it was a cool and dreary day -- raining pretty much all morning and windy. How fitting that the weather matched my mood so perfectly???? UUUUGH!
As I walked her into the school, I saw so many of our neighbors and friends. It was reassuring to know that so many of our friends were sending their little ones off to school for the first time, and that Katherine would have so familiar faces around. And, yes, I was in tears. Actually, they were streaming down my face. As I walked Katherine into her room, and turned to put her backpack, coat and umbrella into her cubby, I just couldn't help myself..... The flood gates opened!
Katherine was so excited to be there. She went right over to a group of girls and started talking to them and playing at one of the centers. I walked out of her room without a hug from my baby girl, and then got thinking.... how could I possibly leave without a few more pictures??? Yea, I couldn't..... So I went back in, and thankfully have a big camera that you actually hold up to your face (versus a little point and shoot that you hold out and look through the viewfinder) so that Katherine couldn't see my tears. She went over to her chair and I took some more pictures... All of a sudden, she said, "Mommy, why are you crying?" Of course I told her that I wasn't, but Caleb chimed right in and said, "Yes, you are Mommy! There's tears all over your face!" Thanks, buddy!!
Time to exit! Caleb and I went home to drop Matt off and then went over to Andrea's house for a Mom's breakfast... It was so nice to be surrounded by friends. I cried on and off pretty much all morning. Around 11: 15, Caleb came up from the basement, where he was playing with the other kids and said, "Mommy, where's Katherine? I wanna play with Katherine. I miss her sooo much." More tears.... She'd only been gone a couple of hours and he misses her. UUUUGH!
We ended up leaving shortly before 1. It was so nice to actually have something to do for the first day. It made it sooo much easier.
When she got off the bus that night, it seemed like she aged 5 years. She just seemed older, more independent, more "schoolish".... It seemed like part of her innocence was gone. I know it's got to happen, but why????
Let's see... what else.... Oh, it's been a hard first week. Up until last week, Katherine was still taking naps every day. She's just a kid who requires a lot of sleep, and without it, she's a mess. So the first week was really hard. She had lots of meltdowns, tears over basically nothing, talking back and fighting with Caleb. She was acting so out of character, it was strange. I know she's going through a ton of changes right now, but man... it's hard on us all! I only get so many "good" hours a day with her, and quite frankly, I'd rather not spend them watching her cry.
Matt's parents came down Sunday afternoon so that his mom could stay with the kids and I. He left Sunday night for London and was gone all week. I know I already said this, but wow... it was wonderful to have her here! She helped out so much with the kids, laundry, kept me company, helped me get ready for the baby, clean closets, etc.... I must say.... I think it's high time they move down here! I could really get used to having them in town!
Monday morning I tried to open up the computer, and nothing. I couldn't even turn the thing on. Danyel came over and took a peek at it, and still nothing. So I was without a computer or Internet access all week. When Matt got home, we immediately went to Best Buy and made a visit to the Geek Squad. Foolishly, I hadn't backed up pictures recently, so we had to pay $160 for them to get them off the computer and burn them on CD's. OUCH! We decided that it was time to buy a new computer, (rather than pay for all the diagnostic analysis on the old one), so we did that as well. I must say, I LOVE the new one!! I'm sitting on it now, and it's heaven!!
A few highlights from the week....
Monday we ran errands. I went over to a local store and had them design closets for the kid's rooms. We need some kind of organizing system with the new little guy on the way, so it was a perfect time to get it done. Fran helped me clean out the closets, and they were installed on Thursday morning. Soooo nice!
Wednesday night after school and dinner, Fran and I took the kids over to a little pond to feed the ducks. When we got there, there was a guy in his 50's sitting at a picnic bench smoking. As soon as he saw us, he came up and started talking to us -- and Katherine in particular. He asked her for bread, wanted to take pictures of her with his hot pink point and shoot camera (which he did without my permission), and kept trying to get closer and closer to her..... despite the fact that we kept moving away from him. Supposedly, he had just moved up here from Texas, but strangely, he had no accent. HHMMMM..... It was freaky and totally inappropriate. We ended up calling the police who turned out to be nothing more than the Keystone Cops... Initially, they went to the wrong park, and then by the time they did arrive, the guy was gone. It was pretty unsettling....
A little gymnastics update....
Last week, while I was making dinner, Katherine disappeared. She loves to help me cook, and if she's not cooking with me, she's sitting at the island crafting, or playing in the living room. Because it was sooo quiet, I just went to look for her to see what she was up to. Guess where I found her..... In the bathroom, standing on the side of the bathtub, practicing her beam routine. Oh. My. Goodness. Talk about a recipe for disaster! Needless to say, I'm guessing Santa will probably find room in his sleigh for a beam for her. I was going to wait a while longer, but have come to the realization that she's going to do it regardless, so I might as well make sure she's safe! LOL.
This week, she brought home a "What I want to be when I grow up" sheet. Shockingly, she drew a picture of herself in a leotard, the gymnastics floor, beam and bars. Definitely going in the scrapbook! I wasn't shocked, but it did make me smile!!
So, she also was supposed to start at Chow's this week. We are really blessed to have a world class gym miles from our house -- especially since she loves gymnastics so much. Ironically, she didn't want to go. She was nervous, wanted to stay at her current gym, was afraid of the change, didn't know about all the conditioning, on and on and on.... Literally, she wanted no part of it. She wasn't going. Needless to say, I was dumbfounded! I told her that since I paid almost $200, she was going to give it a try, like it or not, and that if she didn't want to stay, she wouldn't get to go back anytime soon. It was just strange. I couldn't figure her out. Here is a girl who loves gymnastics and doesn't want to go to the best gym in the state, if not one of the best in the country....
At the end of the day, I think she was fearful that most of the girls would be much better than she was. I tried to explain to her that it was a recreational class and most of the girls would have little to no gymnastics experience. Boy, was I right!! Katherine was by the most experienced in the class, and from what I could see, the ONLY one who'd ever step foot in the gym before. Her teacher was giving her high-fives and telling her what a good job she was going. So by the time we left, she was on cloud nine and TOTALLY loves Chow's. She can't wait to go back next week. It's amazing what a little praise can do for your confidence! LOL.
Oh, and one more random....
Reason #679 why I love my hubby....
We were talking yesterday about the baby coming, what needs to be done, etc... and he says to me, "What do you think about getting a cleaning lady? Maybe we could have someone come every other week or so and do the deep cleaning..." What does he think I'd think about it??? No brainer there! So, that's my next project! I'm getting a cleaning lady, and as far as I'm concerned, the sooner the better. But really, how wonderful is it that he suggests it???? Pretty wonderful!
I'm off to bed! More updates and pictures soon!
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