One of Tim and my's favorite things to do on Saturday mornings is to go to the farmer's market. We're lucky enough to have a year round one (in the winter there are inside vendors...no we're not crazy enough to brave the snow). In the summer we especially like it because we can spend a few hours looking around, eating breakfast, and just enjoying the day! We also like it because it gives us a chance to get new foods or old favorites. Now that we have Leo the day is even more special and more fun and I can't wait to share it with him as he grows.
My goal this summer is to get at least one fresh food to use to make a new recipe. This weekend I made 2 new things! I didn't think about blogging them until after we ate them all up so their aren't any pictures but if you make them feel free to share yours!
Fresh Ingredient: Strawberries
New recipe #1
Strawberry Pie
You'll Need:
1 premade pie crust (Or you can make your own...I'm not that great at pie crusts so I just bought mine and it was still really good).
1 quart strawberries
1 1/2 cups water
3/4 cup sugar
2 tbsp corn starch
1 3 oz package of strawberry jello
* In a medium pan mix the water, sugar, and cornstarch. Heat to a boil and stir until clear and thick.
*Remove from heat and add the jello
*Let cool and then add the strawberries (cut these up of course in advance)
*Poor in pie crust and refridgerate until firm
*Eat it up (my favorite step!)
Recipe #2
Strawberry, Banana, Kiwi Crepes (aka really thin pancakes as Ricky Bobby would say ;p)
You'll Need:
Pre-made crepes (or again you can make you're own. It was early and we have a newborn so we're keeping it simple).
Filling:
4 oz Cream Cheese
2 tbsp powder sugar
1 tsp vanilla
1 cup strawberries
Topping:
1 cup strawberries
1 banana
1 kiwi
*Preheat oven to 325*
*Mix all filling ingredients but the strawberries together
*spoon filling into crepes this recipe will make 6
*sprinkle strawberries on top of the cream cheese mixture and roll the crepes. put them seam down in pan
*bake for about 10 mins or until lightly browned
*top with banans, kiwi, and more strawberries
*share them with your husband and enjoy!
These were both super easy and quick little things that I got done with the help of my husband both in the kitchen and out when he took care of little Leo while I was making them. I can't wait to see what we come up with for next week!
Sunday, May 30, 2010
Thursday, May 13, 2010
What I've learned so far being a new mommy...
I have been an official mommy for 12 days now (and about 5 weeks earlier than expected might I add). It's been the best 12 days of my life with the day I found out I was pregnant running a close second. It's also been hard work...imagine that!
Here are some things I've learned so far:
*Planning is good in theory but just doesn't always work in practice anymore. I learned this when my plan of nursing did not go as planned. I really wanted to do this for all the reasons new mommies want to but unfortunately we were not able to do it for a variety reasons and made the decision to go to the bottle. This was very hard for my ego to handle but Leo is so happy and much more active and gaining weight and being a little guy that's what's important!
*Never make fun of another mommie because you might become her! So those mom's that call the doctor's for every little thing...I became one of them this week. Leo went 2 days without pooping and I was ready to rush him to urgent care. I got him into the doctor and he was perfectly fine...just learning how to use his new system. I've also found myself taking his temp whenever I think he feels the least bit warm. My anxiety was very high in the beginning but it's getting better and better everyday...it probably won't ever go away completely because how could it when I love Leo so much. I guess I'm a real mommy now!
*Poop and spit up is no longer gross. I mean it's still gross but I just don't notice how gross it is. It used to make me gag to just get a little on my hand but not anymore.
*Trust your baby...he'll tell you what he needs! So I did the same thing I did during pregnancy and googled and read way too much. Information is good but sometimes it takes the focus off of the real person in charge...your baby. I was so worried he wasn't eating enough so I'd set my alarm to feed him. Guess what...if he's hungry he'll tell me! The leader in our committed couples group at church put it best: "We wouldn't have lasted as long as we have as a species if we depended on our tired moms to set alarms to feed us. Babies are the alarms." He's also a doctor I'll trust that he knows what he's talking about :)
*My husband is totally capable and doesn't need my instruction. Having a baby can be stressful on mommies and daddies but I think it can be even more stressful on the daddy because he's left out and I think most of us want to direct them and correct them at first but they know what they're doing! Tim has been so amazing and the biggest help to me ever. I've learned he can cook, clean, and do the laundry and really doesn't mind. I just need to LET him do it. He can also change a diaper and feed and snuggle the baby just as good as I can. I'm so thankful that I have a husband that shares this new work load even after finishing up his finals in his master's level classes and working 9-10 hour days at work.
*Baby Blues do come and they do go away. I got the baby blues and would cry over most anything happy, sad, exciting...previews to movies and mother's day commercials. The whole time I was thinking, "Oh great I'm going to be the 10% that gets postpartum" After the poop ordeal though I'm happy to say that the tears haven't come for 3 days now! You just feel very overwhelmed and happy that you turn back into a 13 year old girl for a few days.
*Nothing is as amazing as when your baby looks at you. Nothing.
*You can begin a schedule right away for your baby! Leo (crossing my fingers) is on a pretty set schedule already for his feedings and sleeping. He eats every 3-4 hours. Goes to sleep around 9-10 at night and has been sleeping until about 1:30-2 gets a change and a feeding and then sleeps until 6-7 in the morning! I usually talk to him constantly when he's awake during the day but at night I try to keep very quiet so he knows that it's business time and not play time and it's worked! He eats and goes right back to sleep. I snuggle him for a little bit just to make sure he's sleeping really well and then he's back down in his bassinet.
*I've also learned that I have a million more things to learn and change and grow and I wouldn't change it for anything in the world.
Here are some things I've learned so far:
*Planning is good in theory but just doesn't always work in practice anymore. I learned this when my plan of nursing did not go as planned. I really wanted to do this for all the reasons new mommies want to but unfortunately we were not able to do it for a variety reasons and made the decision to go to the bottle. This was very hard for my ego to handle but Leo is so happy and much more active and gaining weight and being a little guy that's what's important!
*Never make fun of another mommie because you might become her! So those mom's that call the doctor's for every little thing...I became one of them this week. Leo went 2 days without pooping and I was ready to rush him to urgent care. I got him into the doctor and he was perfectly fine...just learning how to use his new system. I've also found myself taking his temp whenever I think he feels the least bit warm. My anxiety was very high in the beginning but it's getting better and better everyday...it probably won't ever go away completely because how could it when I love Leo so much. I guess I'm a real mommy now!
*Poop and spit up is no longer gross. I mean it's still gross but I just don't notice how gross it is. It used to make me gag to just get a little on my hand but not anymore.
*Trust your baby...he'll tell you what he needs! So I did the same thing I did during pregnancy and googled and read way too much. Information is good but sometimes it takes the focus off of the real person in charge...your baby. I was so worried he wasn't eating enough so I'd set my alarm to feed him. Guess what...if he's hungry he'll tell me! The leader in our committed couples group at church put it best: "We wouldn't have lasted as long as we have as a species if we depended on our tired moms to set alarms to feed us. Babies are the alarms." He's also a doctor I'll trust that he knows what he's talking about :)
*My husband is totally capable and doesn't need my instruction. Having a baby can be stressful on mommies and daddies but I think it can be even more stressful on the daddy because he's left out and I think most of us want to direct them and correct them at first but they know what they're doing! Tim has been so amazing and the biggest help to me ever. I've learned he can cook, clean, and do the laundry and really doesn't mind. I just need to LET him do it. He can also change a diaper and feed and snuggle the baby just as good as I can. I'm so thankful that I have a husband that shares this new work load even after finishing up his finals in his master's level classes and working 9-10 hour days at work.
*Baby Blues do come and they do go away. I got the baby blues and would cry over most anything happy, sad, exciting...previews to movies and mother's day commercials. The whole time I was thinking, "Oh great I'm going to be the 10% that gets postpartum" After the poop ordeal though I'm happy to say that the tears haven't come for 3 days now! You just feel very overwhelmed and happy that you turn back into a 13 year old girl for a few days.
*Nothing is as amazing as when your baby looks at you. Nothing.
*You can begin a schedule right away for your baby! Leo (crossing my fingers) is on a pretty set schedule already for his feedings and sleeping. He eats every 3-4 hours. Goes to sleep around 9-10 at night and has been sleeping until about 1:30-2 gets a change and a feeding and then sleeps until 6-7 in the morning! I usually talk to him constantly when he's awake during the day but at night I try to keep very quiet so he knows that it's business time and not play time and it's worked! He eats and goes right back to sleep. I snuggle him for a little bit just to make sure he's sleeping really well and then he's back down in his bassinet.
*I've also learned that I have a million more things to learn and change and grow and I wouldn't change it for anything in the world.
Sunday, May 2, 2010
The Story of Leopold Michael
I am sitting in the hospital next to the most beautiful baby boy I've ever seen. I may be partial to him because he's my first born son but nevertheless he really is beautiful in every way. I can't explain the feelings that are rushing over me and my newfound mommyhood but I have loved every second of it.
Yesterday I was 35 weeks 4 weeks pregnant and feeling great! Friday had been a really lazy day for me and I had felt tired and cranky but Saturday was my day and I woke up feeling great. Tim and I were going to work at the store and then enjoy one of our last weekends as just a couple before we welcomed our baby that was still 4 weeks or so away from being here. How quickly our plans would change!
We hadn't even opened up the box with the car seat in it. We still needed a few little things. No bag was packed and now list was even made up but our baby decided none of that mattered! He was ready to finally be with us.
At 4:45 I was still at the store anxious for the last few customers to leave and to go out on a date with my husband. As I was standing at the front counter all of a sudden I felt a big gush. At first I half thought/hoped that I just peed my pants! I looked at Tim and said, "Um I think my water just broke" and ran to the bathroom. That sealed the deal because it wouldn't stop and I started to have my bloody show. Yep I was going to have a baby! Tim knocked on the door and was so confused and nervous!
We called the midwife who had us meet her at the hospital and I was admitted right away and was already 3 centimeters along! I was expecting a long labor since this was my first. I was delightfully surprised that the first half was really not that painful...and when I was checked at around 9 I was five centimeters already. Oh boy did it progress from there! The pain was really intense and my monitors didn't agree with me because they would only work with me on my back so the midwife let me have the internal monitors so I could move more comfortably and use the exercise ball to help control the pain. If you are planning on having a drug-free delivery use the exercise ball! it is heaven! At about 11 they checked me around and I was 9 centimeters! And at 11:30 I was fully dialated and could start pushing!
Did I mention May 1st is Tim's oldest brother's birthday? We joked that we'd try not to have him steal the day but I didn't really think it would happen...but if it did we decided the middle name would be changed from Neal to Michael in honor to him. Pushing was very emotional and at times frustrating because I knew that this was it...he was going to be here but I really didn't know what I was doing! I was afraid of the pain and afraid a little bit to really be a mommy for real...but I did it and the pain was there but far better/different than I ever thought it would be. After about 21 minutes of pushing little Leo was born at 11:51 and I was all tears and smiles! I had great help getting through it from Tim and my mom as well as midwife and the midwife in residency.
They had a full room when he came out because he was so early but everything was perfect. He was 6 lbs 1 oz, oxygen levels were at 100%, and all his vitals were good. They didn't let me breast feed just because of blood sugars and that was a little disappointing to me but hopefully it will still be something I can do...it hasn't worked out well so far though.
So now I'm a momma and the little bean inside me is a Leopold and Tim and I and him are now a family. It's been so amazing and it's only been one day! I can't wait to for the rest to come!
Yesterday I was 35 weeks 4 weeks pregnant and feeling great! Friday had been a really lazy day for me and I had felt tired and cranky but Saturday was my day and I woke up feeling great. Tim and I were going to work at the store and then enjoy one of our last weekends as just a couple before we welcomed our baby that was still 4 weeks or so away from being here. How quickly our plans would change!
We hadn't even opened up the box with the car seat in it. We still needed a few little things. No bag was packed and now list was even made up but our baby decided none of that mattered! He was ready to finally be with us.
At 4:45 I was still at the store anxious for the last few customers to leave and to go out on a date with my husband. As I was standing at the front counter all of a sudden I felt a big gush. At first I half thought/hoped that I just peed my pants! I looked at Tim and said, "Um I think my water just broke" and ran to the bathroom. That sealed the deal because it wouldn't stop and I started to have my bloody show. Yep I was going to have a baby! Tim knocked on the door and was so confused and nervous!
We called the midwife who had us meet her at the hospital and I was admitted right away and was already 3 centimeters along! I was expecting a long labor since this was my first. I was delightfully surprised that the first half was really not that painful...and when I was checked at around 9 I was five centimeters already. Oh boy did it progress from there! The pain was really intense and my monitors didn't agree with me because they would only work with me on my back so the midwife let me have the internal monitors so I could move more comfortably and use the exercise ball to help control the pain. If you are planning on having a drug-free delivery use the exercise ball! it is heaven! At about 11 they checked me around and I was 9 centimeters! And at 11:30 I was fully dialated and could start pushing!
Did I mention May 1st is Tim's oldest brother's birthday? We joked that we'd try not to have him steal the day but I didn't really think it would happen...but if it did we decided the middle name would be changed from Neal to Michael in honor to him. Pushing was very emotional and at times frustrating because I knew that this was it...he was going to be here but I really didn't know what I was doing! I was afraid of the pain and afraid a little bit to really be a mommy for real...but I did it and the pain was there but far better/different than I ever thought it would be. After about 21 minutes of pushing little Leo was born at 11:51 and I was all tears and smiles! I had great help getting through it from Tim and my mom as well as midwife and the midwife in residency.
They had a full room when he came out because he was so early but everything was perfect. He was 6 lbs 1 oz, oxygen levels were at 100%, and all his vitals were good. They didn't let me breast feed just because of blood sugars and that was a little disappointing to me but hopefully it will still be something I can do...it hasn't worked out well so far though.
So now I'm a momma and the little bean inside me is a Leopold and Tim and I and him are now a family. It's been so amazing and it's only been one day! I can't wait to for the rest to come!
Monday, April 5, 2010
8 Weeks...where has the time gone?
I found out I was pregnant at 4 weeks. I knew that Monday that I was but I waited to take the test until Thursday...I just couldn't hold out any longer. It had seemed like years of waiting from May when we lost the 1st pregnancy until September when we found out our little one was ready to come back to us. I was very nervous that a miscarriage was going to happen again but also felt a lot more peaceful as well if that makes sense.
Now it's been 24 weeks and I can't believe that we only have 8 more to go! I was really worried that time was going to creep by but it has moved at just the right pace so we can prepare (well as much as possible). It is so amazing to feel the baby for the first time and a little scary/frustrating/fun to see your body totally change and share a new connection with Tim. I love hearing Tim talk to Leo through the belly...which he'll only do through my belly button because he's thoroughly convinced that's the microphone. It's so hard not to love a man 438972389 times more when you see him as a daddy.
I start my midwife visits every 2 weeks starting this week. I'm kind of excited to get to hear his little heartbeat more often! In the beginning it was so important to me but now there is no questioning that he's in there and doing fine with all his movement. He's also developing his own little personality. He is very particular about things touching my belly. We went out for pizza yesterday and everytime my belly would brush the side of the table he would kick like crazy! He also kicks if he doesn't like where my pants are sitting as well. It's good to know that he's going to have Tim and my stubbornness early so we can try to prepare before he gets here! I'm also convinced he's going to be a little version of my dad...to my dad's great amusement and pride.
The next 8 weeks are going to be very busy...but that should help the time go by super quick and let me have my little bean to cuddle finally!
Now it's been 24 weeks and I can't believe that we only have 8 more to go! I was really worried that time was going to creep by but it has moved at just the right pace so we can prepare (well as much as possible). It is so amazing to feel the baby for the first time and a little scary/frustrating/fun to see your body totally change and share a new connection with Tim. I love hearing Tim talk to Leo through the belly...which he'll only do through my belly button because he's thoroughly convinced that's the microphone. It's so hard not to love a man 438972389 times more when you see him as a daddy.
I start my midwife visits every 2 weeks starting this week. I'm kind of excited to get to hear his little heartbeat more often! In the beginning it was so important to me but now there is no questioning that he's in there and doing fine with all his movement. He's also developing his own little personality. He is very particular about things touching my belly. We went out for pizza yesterday and everytime my belly would brush the side of the table he would kick like crazy! He also kicks if he doesn't like where my pants are sitting as well. It's good to know that he's going to have Tim and my stubbornness early so we can try to prepare before he gets here! I'm also convinced he's going to be a little version of my dad...to my dad's great amusement and pride.
The next 8 weeks are going to be very busy...but that should help the time go by super quick and let me have my little bean to cuddle finally!
Monday, March 8, 2010
You've got me tucked up in your pocket
I'm home safe from a wonderful visit to my parents. I am minus two of the cutest pups ever because they are spending a day at the spa and getting groomed back home as well and then staying with their grandma until I come back for my baby shower! I miss them so much already. It's so weird to be able to actually touch Tim in the bed without one of them sneaking inbetween us or them meeting me at the door. I couldn't do without them but I know they are livin' it up and getting so spoiled!
I had a great visit and got so see so many people this time. Thankfully the weather was nice unlike the last time I was back. I had the best lunch date ever on Saturday with Becky and Roen. Oh my gosh...I can't believe how big he is and how much he looks like his momma. It's so strange to see your friends as parents but so great too because you get to see a whole new side to them. Tim even held Roen...the 1st time he's held a baby in 20 years! He said he was super nervous but I think he did really well and it's fun to see him interact with a baby :) That night we had dinner with Carrie and Kristen and Robert as well. So fun! I'm so glad that we still get to connect with everyone even though we live 3 hours away. I'm crossing my fingers that Carrie can ride down here with her bf (who we finally met!) this weekend when he comes for a bachelor party and we can have our own slumber party.
I also got to see my Uncle Jeff who was staying at my parent's house because my dad's dad died. The funeral is today but opted out because I just really can't say I have any feelings about it one way or the other. He was just a really horrible person...I can't justify being upset in the least that he's no longer here. It would have been different if he ever changed but he just got more and more bitter as his life went on and I just don't think it's acceptable to do that. I do feel bad for my dad, though. He has now lost both of his parents and I can't imagine how lonely and rough that is...at least he still has Grandpa Smith who is a wonderful dad to him. Dad can now be called Grandpa Hansen as well without it being weird :) And oh boy is he excited to be Grandpa Hansen. I brought he ultrasound pictures back and he was showing them off like crazy. Mom and Dad both got to feel Leo move which is a first for them...I'm pretty sure Leo is going to be a miniature version of my dad and I'm more than ok with that!
Only 3 month...12 weeks...84 day left until I get my little Leo here! Give or take a few weeks. I had my 28 week check up today and everything went great. I'm measuring right on and my blood sugar was perfect. I start doing kick counts until the end of my pregnancy just to keep track for the doctors and I don't think it will be hard because it's just feeling 10 movements within 2 hours...I felt 10 just in the 30 mins I was at the doctors office. He's a mover and a shaker for sure. Tim and i are still trying to prepare for everything and get ready for the new addition.
Oh Aimee had her baby today via c-section! A little boy (I knew it)...Aiden Kenneth. I am so excited for the Low family and that she had a boy so Leo will have a little friend (not that he couldn't be friends with a girl...but girls have cooties ewwwwww). I can't wait to see the little bean.
I had a great visit and got so see so many people this time. Thankfully the weather was nice unlike the last time I was back. I had the best lunch date ever on Saturday with Becky and Roen. Oh my gosh...I can't believe how big he is and how much he looks like his momma. It's so strange to see your friends as parents but so great too because you get to see a whole new side to them. Tim even held Roen...the 1st time he's held a baby in 20 years! He said he was super nervous but I think he did really well and it's fun to see him interact with a baby :) That night we had dinner with Carrie and Kristen and Robert as well. So fun! I'm so glad that we still get to connect with everyone even though we live 3 hours away. I'm crossing my fingers that Carrie can ride down here with her bf (who we finally met!) this weekend when he comes for a bachelor party and we can have our own slumber party.
I also got to see my Uncle Jeff who was staying at my parent's house because my dad's dad died. The funeral is today but opted out because I just really can't say I have any feelings about it one way or the other. He was just a really horrible person...I can't justify being upset in the least that he's no longer here. It would have been different if he ever changed but he just got more and more bitter as his life went on and I just don't think it's acceptable to do that. I do feel bad for my dad, though. He has now lost both of his parents and I can't imagine how lonely and rough that is...at least he still has Grandpa Smith who is a wonderful dad to him. Dad can now be called Grandpa Hansen as well without it being weird :) And oh boy is he excited to be Grandpa Hansen. I brought he ultrasound pictures back and he was showing them off like crazy. Mom and Dad both got to feel Leo move which is a first for them...I'm pretty sure Leo is going to be a miniature version of my dad and I'm more than ok with that!
Only 3 month...12 weeks...84 day left until I get my little Leo here! Give or take a few weeks. I had my 28 week check up today and everything went great. I'm measuring right on and my blood sugar was perfect. I start doing kick counts until the end of my pregnancy just to keep track for the doctors and I don't think it will be hard because it's just feeling 10 movements within 2 hours...I felt 10 just in the 30 mins I was at the doctors office. He's a mover and a shaker for sure. Tim and i are still trying to prepare for everything and get ready for the new addition.
Oh Aimee had her baby today via c-section! A little boy (I knew it)...Aiden Kenneth. I am so excited for the Low family and that she had a boy so Leo will have a little friend (not that he couldn't be friends with a girl...but girls have cooties ewwwwww). I can't wait to see the little bean.
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Movin' on Up!
I hurt! My body is so mad at me for not being more active and it's telling me about it now. It's so hard to be active in winter, in Iowa, while pregnant. Yes those are my excuses and I'm sticking to them! I have been planning my fitness (or something like that) routine for after Leo's born...it includes lots of walks just me and my boy and then both of my boys :) I hope that I'm more motivated to eat better and just exercise more once I have him. I have been eating better...at least a little but there are still those temptations...like ice cream and cupcakes that I indulge in because he wants them ;)
Why do I hurt? I just got done moving all of my merchandise to the new store location! No, nothing was too heavy but up and down the stairs really paid. I originally planned to move this weekend and really let Tim move most of the stuff (I'm giving like that) but I got an email from Aimee last night saying that they want her to have a c-section next week! She has placenta prevera (or something like that) and had some issues and they don't want her to go into active labor. She and the baby are completely fine they and there shouldn't be any complications but if she would go into labor she could h;ave issues with bleeding too much so they are playing it safe. So we wanted to make sure I got in there and could learn her register and such before she had her little bean. I'm so happy that they will both be fine and I'm so excited for her to have the baby! They opt'd to be surprised on the sex so I can't wait to know if Leo's going to have a little girlfriend or a boy to play trucks with!
So all the items are at the store and we've actually gotten a lot out already and will continue to put stuff out tomorrow. I'm so relieved to be done with that and Tim will move the big stuff (furniture, etc.) this weekend for me. It's a breath of fresh air and if you or someone you know has every had their own business you understand how rewarding and how taxing it can be. It's so nice to have that push and to know that it's not just on my shoulders but I have someone to help think of fun things and help push me to go through with them!
Some things we've come up with so far:
Shopping Happy Hour: Once a week, probably Wednesdays, hosting a special from 4-6. There are a lot of bars in the area as well so this should be really good!
Girl's Night Out: My friend Carrie told me about a store in Mason City that does this where one lady, once a month wins a Girl's Night Out for her and 10 friends to come shop after hours and there is wine tasting, food, eye brow waxes, and other fun stuff for free or they just tip the person. We figured it would be great advertisement and a fun way for friends to get together and relax while they shop.
Sidewalk Sale/Open Houses: We want to get together with the other stores in the area and host one big Sidewalk Sale/Open House for the Spring and Summer to really bring people down to the Village.
I'm also going to have a booth on Saturdays at the Farmer's Market which is huuuuuuge here...they probably have 2,000-3,000 there each Saturday in the summer so it should be really great advertisement and another way to sell my handmade items.
So even though I'm whining right now to Tim to give me a foot rub and how much I hurt I feel amazing and really am motivated for the upcoming weeks and months.
Why do I hurt? I just got done moving all of my merchandise to the new store location! No, nothing was too heavy but up and down the stairs really paid. I originally planned to move this weekend and really let Tim move most of the stuff (I'm giving like that) but I got an email from Aimee last night saying that they want her to have a c-section next week! She has placenta prevera (or something like that) and had some issues and they don't want her to go into active labor. She and the baby are completely fine they and there shouldn't be any complications but if she would go into labor she could h;ave issues with bleeding too much so they are playing it safe. So we wanted to make sure I got in there and could learn her register and such before she had her little bean. I'm so happy that they will both be fine and I'm so excited for her to have the baby! They opt'd to be surprised on the sex so I can't wait to know if Leo's going to have a little girlfriend or a boy to play trucks with!
So all the items are at the store and we've actually gotten a lot out already and will continue to put stuff out tomorrow. I'm so relieved to be done with that and Tim will move the big stuff (furniture, etc.) this weekend for me. It's a breath of fresh air and if you or someone you know has every had their own business you understand how rewarding and how taxing it can be. It's so nice to have that push and to know that it's not just on my shoulders but I have someone to help think of fun things and help push me to go through with them!
Some things we've come up with so far:
Shopping Happy Hour: Once a week, probably Wednesdays, hosting a special from 4-6. There are a lot of bars in the area as well so this should be really good!
Girl's Night Out: My friend Carrie told me about a store in Mason City that does this where one lady, once a month wins a Girl's Night Out for her and 10 friends to come shop after hours and there is wine tasting, food, eye brow waxes, and other fun stuff for free or they just tip the person. We figured it would be great advertisement and a fun way for friends to get together and relax while they shop.
Sidewalk Sale/Open Houses: We want to get together with the other stores in the area and host one big Sidewalk Sale/Open House for the Spring and Summer to really bring people down to the Village.
I'm also going to have a booth on Saturdays at the Farmer's Market which is huuuuuuge here...they probably have 2,000-3,000 there each Saturday in the summer so it should be really great advertisement and another way to sell my handmade items.
So even though I'm whining right now to Tim to give me a foot rub and how much I hurt I feel amazing and really am motivated for the upcoming weeks and months.
Monday, February 15, 2010
Love is in the air
Valentine's day has came and went and it was the 5th wonderful one that I've gotten to spend with Timothy. We never doing anything super exciting since after Christmas and then both of our birthday's in January we're just tired, but we do use the day to spend together and just enjoy this last Valentine's day that we'll have as just a couple...although we're both pretty excited to have a new Valentine next year.
I was so moved by the sermon at our church yesterday and we have one every few weeks that really confirms that it is our spiritual home (that and all the wonderful people!). The sermon was lay lead which we have once a month. A lay lead service is where members of the congregation actually pick and plan the whole service and perform it. I love these services because you never know what you are going to get and they usually leave you rolling laughing! This weeks was more serious however, it was in honor of the right to love. Yesterday the Unitarian Universalist declared it "National Standing on the side of Love" Day (http://www.standingonthesideoflove.org/). A UU congregation is a welcoming congregation so that means all people are welcome to explore their spiritual and religious paths. I feel so lucky to belong somewhere that respects all love...even if it may not make sense to them.
We got to hear from a lesbian couple who is raising their twin boys and the struggles they have had to face up until now (go Iowa!) in the adoption process and so on because same-sex marriages are not legal everywhere. I understand that this is a very touchy subject to a lot of people but I really think we need to look into our hearts on this matter and not our minds. How would you feel (or maybe you were made to feel this way) if you were told that who you were created to love was wrong? I know that a lot of people disagree with it on a religious level and you know what that is ok...that is why everyone gets to choose the church they attend and the way they worship and if their church does not want to perform ceremonies for these couples that is completely ok. Heck, my mom and dad had churches turn them away 25 years ago because mom had me in her tummy! That is their choice but it should not be anyone's choice who you marry or love but your own. I continue to hope that each state will follow Iowa's lead and make this a legal issue and not a religious issue because I'd love the god momma's of Leo to get the opportunity to have the piece of paper to legally prove their love.
I was so moved by the sermon at our church yesterday and we have one every few weeks that really confirms that it is our spiritual home (that and all the wonderful people!). The sermon was lay lead which we have once a month. A lay lead service is where members of the congregation actually pick and plan the whole service and perform it. I love these services because you never know what you are going to get and they usually leave you rolling laughing! This weeks was more serious however, it was in honor of the right to love. Yesterday the Unitarian Universalist declared it "National Standing on the side of Love" Day (http://www.standingonthesideoflove.org/). A UU congregation is a welcoming congregation so that means all people are welcome to explore their spiritual and religious paths. I feel so lucky to belong somewhere that respects all love...even if it may not make sense to them.
We got to hear from a lesbian couple who is raising their twin boys and the struggles they have had to face up until now (go Iowa!) in the adoption process and so on because same-sex marriages are not legal everywhere. I understand that this is a very touchy subject to a lot of people but I really think we need to look into our hearts on this matter and not our minds. How would you feel (or maybe you were made to feel this way) if you were told that who you were created to love was wrong? I know that a lot of people disagree with it on a religious level and you know what that is ok...that is why everyone gets to choose the church they attend and the way they worship and if their church does not want to perform ceremonies for these couples that is completely ok. Heck, my mom and dad had churches turn them away 25 years ago because mom had me in her tummy! That is their choice but it should not be anyone's choice who you marry or love but your own. I continue to hope that each state will follow Iowa's lead and make this a legal issue and not a religious issue because I'd love the god momma's of Leo to get the opportunity to have the piece of paper to legally prove their love.
Monday, February 8, 2010
16 Weeks and Counting Down :)
I had my 24 week check up today with the midwife that is quickly becoming my favorite! There are 4 midwifes at the office I go to and they have you see them all so you are comfortable with who delivers your baby. They are all so sweet but Kim gives off more of the "mom" vibe without being old and she has her own children and grandchildren so she really understands the questions, urges, and wonders of being an expecting momma.
Some people have asked why I chose to use a midwife instead of a regular OB/GYN so here are a few reasons.
1) Like I said there are 4 midwives in the practice I go to. There are 11 doctors. Right there it gave me a much better feeling to only have to meet with 4 people instead of 11 so I can have at least some familiarity with them before the big day.
2) Midwives are women and most OB/GYN's are men. Not saying men can't be wonderful (they have many useful purposes) but when it comes to birth and the miracle of pregnancy I want to have someone instruct me that has gone through it and truly understands it.
3) Midwifery, to me, is more of an artform than a science. I don't believe the miracle of birth should be sterilized or unnatural. Midwifes, from what I've heard/read, will help mothers develop a natural birthing plan and they are there from start to finish! Whenever I watch the Baby Stories and such the doctor only comes in to check to see if the momma is dialated and then when she's pushing. A midwife is there the entire time to coach and help you through it.
4) Midwifes are less likely to push drugs on the woman. Many doctors will start a woman on Petosin when it's not really needed just to speed things along. This may sound great but it can actually make labor more violent and it is extremely stressful to the unborn baby. Doctors will also move to c-sections quicker than midwives. Statistics show that the most c-sections (unplanned) are performed in the last hour of the doctors shift and in the late hours of the day...which just seems a little fishy to me.
5) We chose a midwife lastly because that was the solution that seemed right for us. We had the luxury of even getting the choice...if we lived in Mason City still I don't think we would have. It's been a great experience and if you get the chance to pick I would suggest to at least see a midwife during one of your pregnancy visits to see if it's right for you!
So back to the appointment. It went great! I measured right on target but when we went to hear the heartbeat it was a little scary because it took a little longer than every other time. She explained though it was because the machine kept picking up my pulse and it made it hard to hear Leo's. Once she did though she let me listen extra long to put my mind at ease and she said it was just perfect!
I am so thankful that this pregnancy is going along so well. When you've had a miscarriage it's always in the back of your mind that something bad can happen at any time. Thankfully Leo is growing to be a healthy boy and I've been doing my best to be as healthy as possible. I've really be watching my weight gain (12 lbs at 24 weeks...not to bad) and what I eat. I've been trying to go by the rule: Would I let me toddler eat this? Before I put it in my mouth. That way I'm not excluding everything but I'm limiting (like I'm probably not going to let my 3 year old eat fast food 3 meals a week, ice cream is fine as a treat not a daily snack, etc) and it's been working well. I'll admit it's getting a lot harder though these last few months! My blood pressure is also really good which will hopefully limit my changes of having preclampsia. I have my gestational diabetes test next visit so hopefully that will go well too!
Finally the belly is popping and I'm stretch mark free! Lets all cross our fingers that this continues. Tim has being giving me belly rubs a few days a week so hopefully this helps. Even if it doesn't it's a really nice time for me and a way for us to be close during the pregnancy. I'm so ready for it to warm up though...I'm going to make some dresses to wear doing the last few months because pants are just not comfy at all to me.
Only 16 more weeks until our little Leo is here to snuggle and I can't wait! It's amazing how much love I have for him...I'm sure it will multiple by even more once he's here.
Some people have asked why I chose to use a midwife instead of a regular OB/GYN so here are a few reasons.
1) Like I said there are 4 midwives in the practice I go to. There are 11 doctors. Right there it gave me a much better feeling to only have to meet with 4 people instead of 11 so I can have at least some familiarity with them before the big day.
2) Midwives are women and most OB/GYN's are men. Not saying men can't be wonderful (they have many useful purposes) but when it comes to birth and the miracle of pregnancy I want to have someone instruct me that has gone through it and truly understands it.
3) Midwifery, to me, is more of an artform than a science. I don't believe the miracle of birth should be sterilized or unnatural. Midwifes, from what I've heard/read, will help mothers develop a natural birthing plan and they are there from start to finish! Whenever I watch the Baby Stories and such the doctor only comes in to check to see if the momma is dialated and then when she's pushing. A midwife is there the entire time to coach and help you through it.
4) Midwifes are less likely to push drugs on the woman. Many doctors will start a woman on Petosin when it's not really needed just to speed things along. This may sound great but it can actually make labor more violent and it is extremely stressful to the unborn baby. Doctors will also move to c-sections quicker than midwives. Statistics show that the most c-sections (unplanned) are performed in the last hour of the doctors shift and in the late hours of the day...which just seems a little fishy to me.
5) We chose a midwife lastly because that was the solution that seemed right for us. We had the luxury of even getting the choice...if we lived in Mason City still I don't think we would have. It's been a great experience and if you get the chance to pick I would suggest to at least see a midwife during one of your pregnancy visits to see if it's right for you!
So back to the appointment. It went great! I measured right on target but when we went to hear the heartbeat it was a little scary because it took a little longer than every other time. She explained though it was because the machine kept picking up my pulse and it made it hard to hear Leo's. Once she did though she let me listen extra long to put my mind at ease and she said it was just perfect!
I am so thankful that this pregnancy is going along so well. When you've had a miscarriage it's always in the back of your mind that something bad can happen at any time. Thankfully Leo is growing to be a healthy boy and I've been doing my best to be as healthy as possible. I've really be watching my weight gain (12 lbs at 24 weeks...not to bad) and what I eat. I've been trying to go by the rule: Would I let me toddler eat this? Before I put it in my mouth. That way I'm not excluding everything but I'm limiting (like I'm probably not going to let my 3 year old eat fast food 3 meals a week, ice cream is fine as a treat not a daily snack, etc) and it's been working well. I'll admit it's getting a lot harder though these last few months! My blood pressure is also really good which will hopefully limit my changes of having preclampsia. I have my gestational diabetes test next visit so hopefully that will go well too!
Finally the belly is popping and I'm stretch mark free! Lets all cross our fingers that this continues. Tim has being giving me belly rubs a few days a week so hopefully this helps. Even if it doesn't it's a really nice time for me and a way for us to be close during the pregnancy. I'm so ready for it to warm up though...I'm going to make some dresses to wear doing the last few months because pants are just not comfy at all to me.
Only 16 more weeks until our little Leo is here to snuggle and I can't wait! It's amazing how much love I have for him...I'm sure it will multiple by even more once he's here.
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
The Times they are a Changin'
I watched the movie about Bob Dylan this weekend...and it was amazing :) I've really started to like more of the folk/bluegrass bluesy music and so does Leo! He dances like crazy in my tummy when we listen to it. I love that he seems to be on a somewhat schedule and its been really nice to feel him move as a reassurance he's still there. During your 2nd trimester you feel so good that sometimes you can scare yourself that you're really not pregnant at all. I'm getting closer and closer to that 3rd trimester though so I better enjoy it while it lasts I suppose.
My last post I said there may be some changes and boy are there! All positive (I hope). Thursday of last week a fellow shop owner in the village came into the store and we were chit chatting and she mentioned that she was looking for someone to share her space and schedule with. She has a wonderful resale boutique of higher end labels that is right on the main part of the village. She said she has a 14 month old and due with another baby bean in March/April and would really like to be able to have more time with them. This was music to my ears because Tim and I were going to have to make a final decision on the store with Leo coming. It's been doing well but not well enough to help pay for as least a little bit of childcare and I having to close up a month could have ruined us!
On Saturday Tim and I met with her and her husband and looked at her space. It is super cute and our items will compliment each other really well. I was so happy everyone was in agreement that we would have the 2 stores come together! I will be moving in the end of February and we'll be officially together as of March 1st! This will give us some time to work together before Aimee has her little baby (I hope it's a boy too!). It's so great how well this all turned out. The really great part: I will have a 2 day work week with 2 saturdays a month! To me that seems like the best of both worlds. I'll get plenty of time with my little man as well as some adult time and once he gets older I won't feel so bad about putting him in a day care or play group a few hours a week.
The great news/change has continued to today! I got a message from Kelsey on facebook asking if I'd make some items for her store, Orange Possum as well! I'm so excited to do this. It was really special when I got to open a store with my stuff in it but for someone else to put your items that you make with your own hands in their store is really an honor. Theeeeeeeeeeen I got another message from Aimee that her friend in Chicago has a store and would like to have some of my dresses in there! In Chicago!! I'm on cloud 9 for sure :) All of a sudden I'm going to go from slooooooooow to busy, busy, busy :) I love it though and I can't really complain when it's something I love to do.
In the middle of all of these things I'm going to try to help with the Art in the Park that will be just down the street from the new space, start at the farmer's market (working outside all day on Saturdays...what could be better?), and maybe try to have this little baby too! I am so thankful and up for the challenges ahead!
My last post I said there may be some changes and boy are there! All positive (I hope). Thursday of last week a fellow shop owner in the village came into the store and we were chit chatting and she mentioned that she was looking for someone to share her space and schedule with. She has a wonderful resale boutique of higher end labels that is right on the main part of the village. She said she has a 14 month old and due with another baby bean in March/April and would really like to be able to have more time with them. This was music to my ears because Tim and I were going to have to make a final decision on the store with Leo coming. It's been doing well but not well enough to help pay for as least a little bit of childcare and I having to close up a month could have ruined us!
On Saturday Tim and I met with her and her husband and looked at her space. It is super cute and our items will compliment each other really well. I was so happy everyone was in agreement that we would have the 2 stores come together! I will be moving in the end of February and we'll be officially together as of March 1st! This will give us some time to work together before Aimee has her little baby (I hope it's a boy too!). It's so great how well this all turned out. The really great part: I will have a 2 day work week with 2 saturdays a month! To me that seems like the best of both worlds. I'll get plenty of time with my little man as well as some adult time and once he gets older I won't feel so bad about putting him in a day care or play group a few hours a week.
The great news/change has continued to today! I got a message from Kelsey on facebook asking if I'd make some items for her store, Orange Possum as well! I'm so excited to do this. It was really special when I got to open a store with my stuff in it but for someone else to put your items that you make with your own hands in their store is really an honor. Theeeeeeeeeeen I got another message from Aimee that her friend in Chicago has a store and would like to have some of my dresses in there! In Chicago!! I'm on cloud 9 for sure :) All of a sudden I'm going to go from slooooooooow to busy, busy, busy :) I love it though and I can't really complain when it's something I love to do.
In the middle of all of these things I'm going to try to help with the Art in the Park that will be just down the street from the new space, start at the farmer's market (working outside all day on Saturdays...what could be better?), and maybe try to have this little baby too! I am so thankful and up for the challenges ahead!
Friday, January 22, 2010
Changes on the Horizon?
I just got a very fun, exciting prospect for the store. It would involve some change but days off and not having to close during my maternity leave. Nothing is set in stone yet but hopefully it will be in the next few days because I'm just bursting at the seams to tell! Change is a little scary but the opportunity for more success and being able to be with Leo more days a week it's definitely worth it.
It's funny how the universe has ways of lining things up to help you when you need it. Cross your fingers for me that this works out how it is in my head!
More to come later!
It's funny how the universe has ways of lining things up to help you when you need it. Cross your fingers for me that this works out how it is in my head!
More to come later!
Monday, January 18, 2010
Baby Bloggin'
So I bought a baby journal almost a month ago but I bought it because I liked the cover and the title was cute "To my Baby with Love" but then I got home and started filling it out and the questions just weren't what I like...so I need to get a new one and start over! I was so on top of it too :( That's ok though because I love looking back and thinking about the whole experience. I know some people have really hard pregnancies or just plain hate being pregnant but I've been lucky enough to have a great one!
It is so great having a name to call the baby even when he's still in my tummy tum tum. Leopold Neal Francis...Baby Leo. It's probably all in my head or pure coincidence but ever since I've been talking to him using his name he is so much more active and his little kicks and punches are getting bigger and bigger everyday! I love feeling him inside me move and it makes my heart flutter to think that I'm lucky enough to be his mommy :) I looooooooove when Tim talks to my tummy and has the biggest smile on his face. Being pregnant (when it's planned) makes you fall in love even deeper with your spouse I think and in a whole new way! I can't wait to see Tim with him...he's going to be such a good daddy even if he's scared to death at first! He hasn't held a baby since he was 8...20 years ago!
I'm so excited that our church is having an "Expecting Parents/Toddler Parents" mixer this Friday so we can all get to know each other. It's going to be a big pizza party and we all bring ingredients to share and have fun. Being the only pregnant person in a church is so exciting because everyone wants to talk to you haha. It's such a nice way to get to talk to some of the older folks too because they get so excited that they get to go through the experience with us even if it's just on Sundays. I can't wait until Leo gets to go to RE on Sundays and participate in the activities. It just so silly to think that in a few years I'll probably have the kid up front that talks the whole time during the children section of the service!
The only down point of being pregnant is this sleep thing...I'm starting to get bigger and the whole sleeping thing is just starting to get annoying because no position is comfortable and once I do get comfortable I have to get up and pee anyways! In the last week Leo went from being a night owl to a morning glory and I've been getting up by 7 everyday! Not that this is that much earlier than normal but on a Sunday I'd love to get to sleep in until 8:30. If this is the worst of it though I'm so lucky so I'll try only to complain to Tim to make him feel sorry for me and dote on me ;)
Only 19 more weeks before my baby boy is here!
It is so great having a name to call the baby even when he's still in my tummy tum tum. Leopold Neal Francis...Baby Leo. It's probably all in my head or pure coincidence but ever since I've been talking to him using his name he is so much more active and his little kicks and punches are getting bigger and bigger everyday! I love feeling him inside me move and it makes my heart flutter to think that I'm lucky enough to be his mommy :) I looooooooove when Tim talks to my tummy and has the biggest smile on his face. Being pregnant (when it's planned) makes you fall in love even deeper with your spouse I think and in a whole new way! I can't wait to see Tim with him...he's going to be such a good daddy even if he's scared to death at first! He hasn't held a baby since he was 8...20 years ago!
I'm so excited that our church is having an "Expecting Parents/Toddler Parents" mixer this Friday so we can all get to know each other. It's going to be a big pizza party and we all bring ingredients to share and have fun. Being the only pregnant person in a church is so exciting because everyone wants to talk to you haha. It's such a nice way to get to talk to some of the older folks too because they get so excited that they get to go through the experience with us even if it's just on Sundays. I can't wait until Leo gets to go to RE on Sundays and participate in the activities. It just so silly to think that in a few years I'll probably have the kid up front that talks the whole time during the children section of the service!
The only down point of being pregnant is this sleep thing...I'm starting to get bigger and the whole sleeping thing is just starting to get annoying because no position is comfortable and once I do get comfortable I have to get up and pee anyways! In the last week Leo went from being a night owl to a morning glory and I've been getting up by 7 everyday! Not that this is that much earlier than normal but on a Sunday I'd love to get to sleep in until 8:30. If this is the worst of it though I'm so lucky so I'll try only to complain to Tim to make him feel sorry for me and dote on me ;)
Only 19 more weeks before my baby boy is here!
Monday, January 11, 2010
What a wonderful past few days!
On Saturday mama and papa came down for a visit to help celebrate my birthday. I love when they come down and we can go explore the town together and just hang out. I promised my dad a steak dinner the next time he came down so I brought him to Golden Corral...which is a huuuuuuuge buffet where you can get your steaks cooked to order! Oh my gosh was the baby bean happy with all that food.
We also went to Roller Derby after dinner! If you've never been to one it's so much fun. Mom really liked it but dad...he wasn't so impressed. Luckily there was Bald Eagle days for him on Sunday to make up for it.
I get so excited now that we've started shopping for the baby :) On Sunday we set out on a mission to get the perfect crib! Holy moly I never knew cribs could range in price so much. I wanted a nice one that could be used for the next few babies as well so I didn't want to go with the cheapest one I could find. Those are also things that you really need to see and touch and shake! I found the perfect one at Sears of all places...thanks to mama for suggesting it because I would have never thought to even go there! Really who goes to Sears anymore? It looked just like the $500 one we saw at Baby's R Us so I was really happy with it. Tim and Anthony got it all put together today and it's amazing. Of course we had to let the puppies try it out. Jolee wasn't so impressed but I think that Lola thinks its her bed and her bedroom now.
We also decided on decor while shopping! Well it wasn't so much a "we" as a "me" but Tim was very happy with the choice! It will be woodland animals with a focus on deer and owls! I got really cute vinyl decals for the wall since we're still renting and can't paint (I can't wait to be able to buy here!). They turned out sooooooo cute and mom got a deer mobile for the baby...dad was so proud being the avid hunter that he is.
Sooooooo the big news! We had our 20 week ultrasound where you can find out if you're having a boy or girl. I knew from the start that I wanted to know. I hated calling the baby just baby or even them or the worst "it"! First they had to measure and find all the body parts they could and everything was turning out great...it was so cool to see the little booty and a great profile shot of the baby but the best is when we found out we're having a little boy!!! I've been having a feeling lately and really last night that we were having a boy and it's so great to know. I feel so much more connected with the little guy and it makes planning so much easier. I've already gotten him his winter coat for next year (for $7 when it was originally $36)!
We don't have names yet...and we might keep it a secret because I hate when people give their input on a name when it's negative! I've never done that to someone but either we're picking really stupid names or we have really opinionated people around us haha. I'm so picky but I think once I stumble upon his name I'll just know :)
What a wonderful time it is to be alive. I'm so grateful for everything that's happened and how luck I am to have a great family and support system.
On Saturday mama and papa came down for a visit to help celebrate my birthday. I love when they come down and we can go explore the town together and just hang out. I promised my dad a steak dinner the next time he came down so I brought him to Golden Corral...which is a huuuuuuuge buffet where you can get your steaks cooked to order! Oh my gosh was the baby bean happy with all that food.
We also went to Roller Derby after dinner! If you've never been to one it's so much fun. Mom really liked it but dad...he wasn't so impressed. Luckily there was Bald Eagle days for him on Sunday to make up for it.
I get so excited now that we've started shopping for the baby :) On Sunday we set out on a mission to get the perfect crib! Holy moly I never knew cribs could range in price so much. I wanted a nice one that could be used for the next few babies as well so I didn't want to go with the cheapest one I could find. Those are also things that you really need to see and touch and shake! I found the perfect one at Sears of all places...thanks to mama for suggesting it because I would have never thought to even go there! Really who goes to Sears anymore? It looked just like the $500 one we saw at Baby's R Us so I was really happy with it. Tim and Anthony got it all put together today and it's amazing. Of course we had to let the puppies try it out. Jolee wasn't so impressed but I think that Lola thinks its her bed and her bedroom now.
We also decided on decor while shopping! Well it wasn't so much a "we" as a "me" but Tim was very happy with the choice! It will be woodland animals with a focus on deer and owls! I got really cute vinyl decals for the wall since we're still renting and can't paint (I can't wait to be able to buy here!). They turned out sooooooo cute and mom got a deer mobile for the baby...dad was so proud being the avid hunter that he is.
Sooooooo the big news! We had our 20 week ultrasound where you can find out if you're having a boy or girl. I knew from the start that I wanted to know. I hated calling the baby just baby or even them or the worst "it"! First they had to measure and find all the body parts they could and everything was turning out great...it was so cool to see the little booty and a great profile shot of the baby but the best is when we found out we're having a little boy!!! I've been having a feeling lately and really last night that we were having a boy and it's so great to know. I feel so much more connected with the little guy and it makes planning so much easier. I've already gotten him his winter coat for next year (for $7 when it was originally $36)!
We don't have names yet...and we might keep it a secret because I hate when people give their input on a name when it's negative! I've never done that to someone but either we're picking really stupid names or we have really opinionated people around us haha. I'm so picky but I think once I stumble upon his name I'll just know :)
What a wonderful time it is to be alive. I'm so grateful for everything that's happened and how luck I am to have a great family and support system.
Friday, January 8, 2010
Thursday, January 7, 2010
Snow Day!
So one advantage of owning your own business is that you make the rules! I've never taken snow days at any of my other jobs. I actually liked snow days when I worked at IC because no one was in the office and usually we got free lunch, coffee, or Cabin Coffee Cinnamon Rolls delivered (I miss those and Papa's! I get pregnancy cravings for both but for some reason Tim thinks the 8 hour round trip may be asking a little much haha). Being pregnant I'm a super grandma and am so afraid of falling! Luckily my sweet little brother did get me boots finally (it's really silly that I live in Iowa without them.) but I feel Monday taking the dogs out and that was just over my pant leg! So anyways, I get to close the store when need be without feeling badly about it. Plus I figure there aren't a lot of shoppers out when it's so yucky out.
I've already got some cleaning done and out of the way, with only two people and all my sewing stuff out of the apartment it doesn't really get messy anymore. I would like to cook up a storm but that would involve leaving the apartment so maybe I'll just have to invent something out of the stuff we have in the cupboards. I'd also like to finish cleaning out the closet (it's so close to being done!) I'll probably work on that and try to find a place to put Timothy's suits. The suits he hasn't worn since his job interviewing days! How did he get a job he can wear jeans and tees to but is also professional? What a lucky duck!
Tomorrow is my birthday! I'll be 24 :) Tim got us reservations already at the restaurant so that step is taken care of. He's nervous because I won't tell him ideas for a gift besides not to go over $50 because all of our money is suppose to go on baby stuff which is so much better anyways! I'm excited to see what he comes up with. This is also the first year that he hasn't tried to celebrate on the 6th instead of the 8th. Last year he thought he was so sly getting me an ice cream cake on the 6th and surprising me on my lunch break! I guess it's better to be early than late!
My momma and dad are coming down this weekend and to come to the ultrasound with us on Monday! We actually have busy weekend: Roller Derby on Saturday night, Bald Eagle days on Sunday, and the best part find out if we're having a boy or girl Monday! Mom and dad didn't find out with either me or Uriah but they sure are excited to find out with their grandbaby. I'm so greatful that they are so supportive and so excited to be grandparents. I don't think that it hurts that the baby is leaving the next this year. Tim's mom is also really excited and I'm curious to see what Tim's dad is like with a baby.
I'm going to enjoy this day, get some things done, and relax!
I've already got some cleaning done and out of the way, with only two people and all my sewing stuff out of the apartment it doesn't really get messy anymore. I would like to cook up a storm but that would involve leaving the apartment so maybe I'll just have to invent something out of the stuff we have in the cupboards. I'd also like to finish cleaning out the closet (it's so close to being done!) I'll probably work on that and try to find a place to put Timothy's suits. The suits he hasn't worn since his job interviewing days! How did he get a job he can wear jeans and tees to but is also professional? What a lucky duck!
Tomorrow is my birthday! I'll be 24 :) Tim got us reservations already at the restaurant so that step is taken care of. He's nervous because I won't tell him ideas for a gift besides not to go over $50 because all of our money is suppose to go on baby stuff which is so much better anyways! I'm excited to see what he comes up with. This is also the first year that he hasn't tried to celebrate on the 6th instead of the 8th. Last year he thought he was so sly getting me an ice cream cake on the 6th and surprising me on my lunch break! I guess it's better to be early than late!
My momma and dad are coming down this weekend and to come to the ultrasound with us on Monday! We actually have busy weekend: Roller Derby on Saturday night, Bald Eagle days on Sunday, and the best part find out if we're having a boy or girl Monday! Mom and dad didn't find out with either me or Uriah but they sure are excited to find out with their grandbaby. I'm so greatful that they are so supportive and so excited to be grandparents. I don't think that it hurts that the baby is leaving the next this year. Tim's mom is also really excited and I'm curious to see what Tim's dad is like with a baby.
I'm going to enjoy this day, get some things done, and relax!
Monday, January 4, 2010
Back to the grind again
I had such a great time during the holidays but now we all have to face going back to our schedules and getting back into the groove of things again, which is hard to do when it's -20 outside.
I love having Monday's off but I wish I wouldn't use it as my day to push everything to! It just seems like it's easier to get stuff done when it's just me in the house. Today I have to run to the bank to finally put my Christmas money in there as well as the last deposit of the month for the store. I know it's not a big chore but I hate going to the bank, especially when I have to make multiple deposits.
Today is the day that I'm starting the transition from spare room to nursery! If anyone else has a spare room that is rarely used you know how much of a disaster it can be! It does give me a chance to put one of my New Year's resolutions in action though: simplify. I have probably 15-20 pairs of high heels which 1) is just unnecessary and 2) I'm not going to be wearing them in the snow, when it's warm I'll have a watermelon growing in me, and then I'll have a baby and I just don't know how practical they will be. Don't get me wrong I'll save a few. I also have too many purses to count to get rid of. I can't believe what I would spend money on!
In one week we will (hopefully) know if the baby bean is a boy or a girl. I can't wait to get a baby quilt started for them! I think the nursery is going to be owl themed! If we have a girl it might have to be poodles though :) Speaking of poodles did anyone else's dogs drive them nuts when they were pregnant? I swear they know because they will not leave me alone and one of them always has to be on or near my belly. They are so spoiled I worry about how they will take to a new little person in the house, especially Lola because she is definitely a momma's baby.
On a different note, a good friend of mine and her boyfriend got engaged yesterday :) It is so great to see two people who love eachother get to make that step! I'm so happy for them and now maybe I'll have someone to have babies with that lives near by. We're going to celebrate the engagement and my birthday on Friday.
I love having Monday's off but I wish I wouldn't use it as my day to push everything to! It just seems like it's easier to get stuff done when it's just me in the house. Today I have to run to the bank to finally put my Christmas money in there as well as the last deposit of the month for the store. I know it's not a big chore but I hate going to the bank, especially when I have to make multiple deposits.
Today is the day that I'm starting the transition from spare room to nursery! If anyone else has a spare room that is rarely used you know how much of a disaster it can be! It does give me a chance to put one of my New Year's resolutions in action though: simplify. I have probably 15-20 pairs of high heels which 1) is just unnecessary and 2) I'm not going to be wearing them in the snow, when it's warm I'll have a watermelon growing in me, and then I'll have a baby and I just don't know how practical they will be. Don't get me wrong I'll save a few. I also have too many purses to count to get rid of. I can't believe what I would spend money on!
In one week we will (hopefully) know if the baby bean is a boy or a girl. I can't wait to get a baby quilt started for them! I think the nursery is going to be owl themed! If we have a girl it might have to be poodles though :) Speaking of poodles did anyone else's dogs drive them nuts when they were pregnant? I swear they know because they will not leave me alone and one of them always has to be on or near my belly. They are so spoiled I worry about how they will take to a new little person in the house, especially Lola because she is definitely a momma's baby.
On a different note, a good friend of mine and her boyfriend got engaged yesterday :) It is so great to see two people who love eachother get to make that step! I'm so happy for them and now maybe I'll have someone to have babies with that lives near by. We're going to celebrate the engagement and my birthday on Friday.
Friday, January 1, 2010
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