One day at a time

Yesterday I got one of my weekly emails from some pregnancy related website telling me what to expect for this week in my life. I'm 28 weeks pregnant. Well, I guess today... more like 28.5 weeks along. And yes, that does mean something to an expecting woman.

So back to that email... It mentioned that this week would be a good time to start packing my bag for the hospital and making sure that I have everything I will need. Now let's talk about that. There's a lot of stuff that goes into that bag. And I don't have a single thing yet. I'm so behind...

I just ordered our baby's bedding 2 days ago and there's still a drum set sitting in the middle of our baby's future bedroom along with a couch and shelf we need to sell and a bunch of random "misc household items" that have no home. And really, that's all we have done so far. So how am I supposed to think about packing for the hospital? It's just a bunch more stuff I have to buy that I haven't even thought of yet.

So for now... maybe some rubbermaid containers and maybe a couple of listings on Craigslist. And plenty to do before we actually can say we are "ready".

Okay, I'm hungry and this computer is doing nothing to satisfy my belly.

A Monday Morning Wish (maybe a few)

On this Monday morning I am wishing for...

• getting everything done today BEFORE I get all lazy and slow.
• some hopeful news from a family member.
• that 'Big Boy Nichols' makes it safely to his home... we were fish-sitting this weekend.

Not really a lot to ask for on this particular Monday morning.

And just a little thought... wondering about New Year's Resolutions. I don't know about them. I've seen some fairly basic ones and then some very ambitious ones too. And I'm not sure I can pull off either one. I'll get SUPER dedicated for about 4 minutes and then I totally forget what I was even resolving to do. So here's what I'm going to do.

Nothing.

And just have a really good 2010. Because even if I did feel ambitious and made a lovely list of things for the year... there is a baby on the way and chances are he'll just overtake any of my chances of doing any of those things. Okay, maybe one resolution because it'll be easy to accomplish.

My resolution is this: to have a baby this year and learn a lot about being a mommy. And diaper changing. And probably some sleepless nights.

What is your big 2010 resolution?

Please don't freak out

It's Sunday evening... 6:22pm. I have a Christmas hangover.

And please don't read into that because I'm pregnant. It's not a "traditional" hangover. All I'm meaning is that I've had the most wonderful Christmas this year... lots of it and now I'm totally partied out. I'm happy to sit on my butt and zone out and not really do anything much. Maybe for days. And days.

That's all I have to say right now. Even typing this post goes against the whole 'not doing anything' activities I mentioned above. So maybe tomorrow I'll tell you a little bit more about my weekend. :-)

Because I promised not to...

I promised my husband I wouldn't write a blog today. Because I have too much to do. But really, I feel like I need to get this off my chest. And by "this" I don't really mean anything except that I wanted to blog something. Anything.

So real quick, this is what my happy little Christmas Eve Eve looks like.

A little bit of this...

A little bit of that... MAKING, not eating. Ahem.

And maybe a bit of this. If I'm lucky.

Happy Christmas!

p.s. those are not my feet, that is not my deck and that is NOT my weather. And I'm pregnant so please... don't judge.

To go or not to go?

Today is a day of epic proportions... Okay, probably not but I AM going to the post office 3 days before Christmas. And the stinkin' package isn't even going to make it to it's destinations (aka Montreal) before the 25th. Why even bother?

You know what? Why bother? Maybe I just go next Monday and call it good. Or is that a major chicken move? I mean... I DO have other things I could be doing with my time. Very important things. You have no idea.

Like solitaire... we've been having it out lately. And I am sad to say that I have NOT been on the winning end. There's been a lot of this...

But not a lot of this...

And to make matters even worse (I know... things are just SO difficult) a certain somebody in my life had the audacity to say that maybe I lose so often because I "miss" things in the game. Well, excuse me but I do not miss. Call me "vigilante solitaire" any day because I just don't. Well, most of the time. As far as I can tell.

I think the answer to this problem is to get some NEW games on my phone. My phone is less than a month old and I'm reveling in a game that I actually kind of hate and am hating it more everyday because I can't win it. And then I play it some more.

Is there a name for this condition? Oh... um... hmmmm. I just remembered a quote that somebody I know used to say often... 'the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again, expecting a different result.'

Noooooo, that just can't be me. Really. I'm very sane. I am.

But maybe just one more go at this stupid game and I'll win. I just know it.

Signing off,

Don't ever send me to Vegas.

Food (or just pomegranates) for thought

Did you know...

The pomegranates have 3 grams of fat in them? But they also have 11 grams of fiber, 5 grams of protein and almost 50% of vitamin C for the day. Whew!

See, I knew about the vitamin C part but the rest... I guess I just didn't know. But I've been craving them like crazy and eating probably 3-4/week and now I feel even better about eating them!

And now for a little shameless bragging about Deeter... he likes pomegranates too! He sits at my feet and waits for them to fall while I'm cutting it up. I think he always knew how good they were for him. And he needs all the dietary variety he can get since his bowl of food hasn't really changed flavors since well... since puppyhood. But such is the life of a wiener dog.

Before I sign off, just one thought. If you know the answer, please share: Why are pomegranates so dang hard to peel? It's like 10 minutes of hard labor to get to a point where you can actually eat. And then you're almost too exhausted to eat. Especially now that I know about all the protein I'm eating, it feels like more work than ever.

I think I need a massage.

Bricks & Mortar... and a few steps

I've save a few photos from Montreal for it's own special little post. Yay for them! Because honestly, I could gush for HOURS about the beautiful architecture of Montreal. Literally HOURS. I hope you've blocked off some time for this...

Actually, just kidding because I didn't take very many photos of buildings. Every single one I walked past was photo worthy most of the time. I don't think that's a correct sentence. Let's try again. Of all the buildings I walked past, almost all of them were photo worthy. Whew! That's better.

And also, unfortunately, some of the MOST beautiful homes I saw were in the evening and it was dark and we were in a car so those ones will remain undiscovered at this point... A mystery you will never read about on this website. Unless I go again. And take those photos.

Okay, back on track... Ahem. Photo commentary. Begin.

These first three photos were like the first three buildings next to where we stayed. Every single one was SO pretty! My only complaint to whomever thought up all of this is the steep crazy stairs OUTSIDE the building in a place that snows about as regularly as a pregnant woman visits a bathroom. Slippery? Possibly. Pain in the butt to shovel? Definitely. But I must say, they are beautiful to look at. Okay, nevermind, I have another complaint. Whomever designed these was not a parent. How the heck do you get your kids up those with strollers and car seats (um... wagon seats?) and groceries and diaper bags? No wonder Montreal has such a low birth rate compared to the rest of Canada.

So here's some lovely curvacious set of stairs. All the other steps are jealous...

These ones looked decidedly lovely as well. And WHAT a nice front door!

Love this building. And the front doors are arched! Great except for moving. But who would ever want to leave??

Here is just one of the many gorgeous churches we saw.

And honestly, one of my first thoughts is... that must have been a lot of work. Read 'Pillars of the Earth' by Ken Follett. Amazing.

I wonder where I can put in my order for a set of these...

And THIS.... This is.... a.... firehall. Truly. And why not? Copper is a perfect accent to red trucks. So festive.

We did visit the old part of Montreal as well... aka Vieux Montreal (mo-ray-al) which means, old Montreal. Enlightening. And I had walked by this area when I was 18 with my cousin and have always wanted to go back because it looked so lovely and there were all sorts of pretty shops to check out. And GUESS WHAT... we didn't go to that part because our 'tour guides' thought it was too touristy. And who would want to go through a bunch of silly little shops. Um, excusez moi... me?

But really, I guess I was the only one. Because I did manage to finagle a quick stop into a children's clothing store and it wasn't fun for anyone but me. Okay, my brothers helped me pick out an overpriced little item but it was in 'n out. Like the burger place but you just don't feel as satisfied. And I obediently walked past about 6 home stores that looked completely divine. DIVINE. And I just wanted to look. Not buy, look. Unless I found something totally amazing!

However, with all of that said, it was a great time! I still have a few more photos for another time on the farmer's market. Another beautiful thing. But that's all for now. Presents to be wrapped, groceries to be bought, milk to be consumed.

Happy Saturday!

Montreal - some probably not-so-good photos

This past week I went to Montreal with my family to visit family. It was so good to see my middle brother's face and make fun of him in person and just be an annoying older sister for a few days. I mean, that's what life is REALLY about right! RIGHT??? Being a thorn in the side of younger sibs. At least that's what I've always thought. Here are a few photos from my trip.

And I'll post a totally separate post on some of the gorgeous architecture of Montreal. It's tres Europe-esque. And please don't question my vocabulary. Thank-you.

Beware: none edited, just plain, raw photos from my camera...

Well, except for this one: this is from the hotel's website and it's where we stayed.

We had a 2 bedroom suite - very old house, very modern furnishings.

This little fellow is Bed Bug. He gets his own blog post at a later date.

Bad lighting. Ahem. Dinner at Alex's parent's house... 4 courses of food heaven!

With Alex's parents

This will only be funny to my brothers... typical travel with Dad... looking at a map.

Guess which one is my brother's place...

The most delicious coffee I've ever had in North America... and it's even decaf!

This photo is purely for my Dad - professional snow plowers. A full-time job in Montreal.

Dad and brothers

Gluten-free lasagna! SO good!

Yes, well... please excuse me in this photo.

Just before digging into our awesome dinner! Last night in town.

I had a really good time visiting in Montreal. It was cold and snowy but really different from the weather we get on the other side. Crisp air that we rarely get and I would probably trade on some winter days for our damp, chill-to-the-bone air. But I was still glad to get home, kiss my little dog and sleep in my own bed.

Where have I been?

Just in case you were wondering why the heck there's been no bloggin' lately... I was out of town. And today I'm not going to write more than that because I'm jet lagged and tired and have a family party to get to this evening. And presents not even wrapped yet. And one not even bought yet. And nap that hasn't been taken yet. So there.

Do you ever wonder...

I was in the grocery store just a few minutes ago to pick up a few random things like Hormel bread dough for the most scrumptious cinnamon rolls EVER and some milk when I happened to walk by an end aisle promotion for... get this: 'DIET 7-up Cherry ANTIOXIDANT'.

Voila

Now... I was wondering. You know, just out of curiosity... who buys this stuff thinking that maybe those antioxidants just might be doing some good? Because after you've put the totally bad-for-you fake sugar stuff in and leached out the calcium, those antioxidants are really going to make a difference. But I'm not an expert so maybe they will... ???...

To be fair, I'm sure it tastes good, if you're into diet sodas. Or pop at all for that matter. I don't really have an opinion on this. It's not my place to tell you that you should or shouldn't. Because sometimes I do like pop and do order it and do enjoy it (through a straw) to the very last drop. However, I just love it when you see a totally unhealthy product claiming to have health benefits. But I guess if I look at it fairly, maybe this one is just a little less bad for you. I just don't get it.

Before & After - Glucose Tolerance

BEFORE:

Sitting in front of me is an orange beverage that I'm supposed to drink to be screened for gestational diabetes. Every preggo has to drink it so I can't feel too sorry for myself right now. And I know it's not going to kill me because all of my girlfriends who are moms are still alive and well this very day... even though they too drank this ugly orange drink. However, everything I've heard about this drink is that it's totally disgusting. I thought I would write about it since I don't like things that taste bad. Luke is actually on speaker phone so he can laugh at me after I'm finished drinking it. How supportive! Here goes...

_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _

AFTER

There are two kinds of people in this world. Those who jump right into the pool and those who go to the steps and gingerly feel the water, probably make some comment about how cold the water is and slowly get in... or maybe change their minds and get back out. When it comes to water, I'm the hemming and hawing one. And when it comes to things I don't want to drink that taste ick. Like the glucose tolerance beverage my doctor gave me to drink this morning. But here goes...

Well, it could have gone that way. I dipped my finger into my cup to taste this stuff and as promised, it wasn't so great. But Luke was on the phone basically telling me that I needed to be the 'jump right in' person and just get this over with. So I did. And now my stomach feels kind of wrong. Just wrong. Not in a major exaggerated way. Just a little bit off. And I'm okay with that.

Because you know what gestational diabetes can do to a baby? Remember that HUGE baby born in India recently... the 19 pounder or whatever he was. Well, if you don't remember, it wasn't exactly charming. He was huge. And disturbing... I think he probably cleared the 3-6 month clothing in the womb... something about that is just sad. And of course, it's dangerous and unhealthy for both mom and baby so I know even though it feels like maybe my doctor is playing a big game of 'let's just make Bonnie drink something totally gross because I'm a doctor and I can', it's really for a good reason.

And now, because I have to get my blood drawn at exactly 10:52 and it's 10:05 right now, I need to sign out. So bye.

today's thought or maybe a few.

I honestly do have some great photos sitting on my camera, just aching... waiting for a chance to be on my blog. I promise. And this will happen. Maybe even tonight. But I am tired.

Why would I be tired?

I went swimming for my first time today in Bellingham. Not my first time ever but in Bellingham... ever. And it was really fun! And a good workout. Everyone tells you that swimming feels so great when you are pregnant but you know what nobody tells you? That you will feel about 1000 pounds when you step out of the pool. Literally! Ha! And I'll go again! It was worth the hour of weightlessness!

Another thought: did you know how much time it takes to show a rental between calls, setting up time to go, the drive there, the waiting... THE WAITING... showing the place and the drive home, it's at least a good hour for a single showing in Bellingham. And today I had 2 of them. And the sweet 2nd one didn't show up. Didn't call either. So I called them to find out where the heck they were and the guy got called into work, didn't bother to call me back. How's that for ya?

Oh, and maybe one more. Bras. Let's talk about them for a second. I read somewhere that like 75% of women are actually wearing the wrong size. And since we're already talking about bras, let me tell you, I know I fit into that category right now. Not usually. But being pregnant means boobs get boobier. And I've officially reached a new level. So, new bra. And the sad part of all this is that even though I've moved up in the world 2 cup sizes, I'm just about hitting the average woman's size. I know, let's wipe away our tears together. And because I needed to buy a new bra, I went to Macy's today. And tried on about 20 of them. I'm not even joking. And then bought 3 to take home and try on with my real clothes, not lazy clothes. And since I just publicly discussed my boobs, I'm going to take it one more step. I don't know why some bras just have the pokiest looking cups of ALL time. Who wants to look like a double torpedo? Like those girls from Austin Powers who could shoot bullets from theirs girls... not I. I will raise my hand high and say that out loud. No thanks.

And really? That's all I've got for Tuesday.

A serious topic

I wanted to have a serious talk about something that's very important to me. And I'm not joking. In case you start to think I am after I tell you what I'm thinking about...

Here it is.

Straws.

And not the straight ones if I can have my choice. The bendy ones... like these.

I know you're wondering why STRAWS on a Monday morning. Here's why. I like to have orange juice before breakfast every morning and I always add a bit of water, at least 3 ice cubes and a bendy straw if I have one. And I've noticed in my drinkings (it's a new word...) that oj just tastes better with a straw. In fact, most drinks taste better with a straw.

I did try to find some scientific evidence to back up my claim but I couldn't find any recent studies. However, let me tell you my theory. When you just take a regular sip of whatever you enjoy, it hits your entire mouth at the same time. With a straw, you have some control over this! You can steer exactly where you want your tasting to be. And yes, I know as I write this, that I sound like a TOTAL idiot. But for the record, who cares.

I love straws.

And that's all I have to say this morning. About straws at least.

Sleeping Beauty

Well, okay maybe the title is a little bit presumptuous of me but since I'm 25lbs heavier than normal and still growing, leave it alone please.

Basically, I only have one thing to say this morning...

The memory foam mattress is a MIRACLE! MIRACLE I tell you. I am beyond relieved.

No longer sleepless,

:-)

This and That

It's funny because sometimes I'll be in the middle of something and go 'oh, I'm going to blog about this' and then I forget what the heck I was thinking of. Well, right now I'm thinking about my Christmas tree, the ribbon I just put up and what I still need to do to get it all purty for the holidays! What else... oh, maybe some of the bothers of pregnancy, a bit of a project happening in our living room (before photos taken, after photos still to come) and... OH I remember what it is I was going to write about today!

And just wait because you'll be so glad I remembered. It's that important. To me, at least!

In order for you to see the good fortune of my story, you'll need some background. I'll keep it short.

I used to love my bed. It was a great place to sleep and sleep I did. Now I don't. I feel like I'm sleeping on a cement slab. I used to feel like this about going to bed at night...

Now I feel like this...

And I'm not joking. AT ALL. Just ask the guy laying next to me who wakes up to my crying and upset several times a night. But this is not a story with a sad ending. It may have a happy ending that I'll tell you about tomorrow! All because of this

Yup, 3 inches of happy sleeping! Memory foam heaven on top of our mattress! Thank-you Costco!

And that's my story. The end!

A simple though for today

If you could do one thing that would bring life, something positive, into the world... even if it's just for one person, what would you do? It could be anything!

What would I do? I'm thinking about that right now.

A sweet Bumbleride ride

On this happy Friday, also known as Black Friday to many shopping crazy people, we made a purchase. Sort of. We made the purchase but really, the item we have ordered is a VERY, VERY amazing and generous gift from Luke's grandparents on his dad's side of the family.

So what is this amazing gift, you ask?

And since you have asked so nicely, I will tell you!

A stroller. For our baby. And not just any stroller... a Bumbleride stroller! Maybe you don't know what this is or even care. And maybe it doesn't even really matter but for us, it's just the stroller we've been looking for. And it's SO pretty! I like it. Wanna see what it looks like?

Introducing the newest, well as soon as it arrives, member of our household!

Such a lovely profile!

I'm pretty thrilled with it. We drove 40 minutes away to get our hands on the nearest one we could find in person. It is a very important decision, the stroller you choose. Sort of like a car, a mode of transportation that could either be a really good choice or a really bad one. This one will work for Luke running on the trails and also for tight corners in the store. Who could ask for more? And only 20lbs.

Anyway, enough gushing on the stroller. It comes in 2 weeks. I'll save the rest until then.

A Thankful Day.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!!

It's so funny how we make days that become special holidays and somehow, we feel different on those days. Take this morning for instance. It's cloudy (same as always), kinda wet outside (same as always), my kitchen is a vile mess (same as always) and yet, this morning is special. Because it's Thanksgiving Day. Which I am sure you know and are rolling your eyes at me for reiterating it for you this morning.

And although I try to be a thankful person everyday for the stuff that's easy to take for granted, today it feels even more important to take some time and be deeply thankful. For a lot of things too.

1. My Husband: I could seriously gush at this point and probably nauseate the whole of our entire county with how thankful I am for this guy. All I can say is that my hope is for every person I know to be as happy and in love as I am when they get married. I'm totally not joking either. Luke would probably say that I border on creepy every now and again but hey, don't be picky, is what I always say to him!

2. My baby: I'm sure you'd say well duh, of course you're thankful for the bubs growing in your tummy. But really, I'm SO, SO thankful for him. He has been a very long time in coming and my heart is full with how much I love him already. Enough said there.

3. Deeter: Believe it or not, I am thankful for our little mutt of a doggy. No matter how annoying he gets, he makes me laugh at least once every single day and good grief, his face is just so cute! No matter how mad I get at him, his cuteness keeps him at our house!

4. Family: I could go on and on with this one too. All I'll say is that there are a lot of people and I love them all!

Those are my top four for this morning... the ones I've been thinking about a lot since I woke up less than an hour ago. Ha!

As you spend time with your family and friends today, eating hopefully more than is appropriate... I'll leave you with this thought...

I don't know if Deeter could really come up with a thankful thought at this moment. Maybe pray for him if you have a second.

Little Miracles

Last night I held the SWEETEST little baby girl. My heart melted a 1000 times just looking at her. And what a little miracle she is to her family and to all who meet her.

There's not much else to say except my heart is full and I can't wait to meet my own little baby.

That's it for today.

What do you say on a Tuesday?

Today is Tuesday. I'm sure you're more aware of that than I am. I honestly forget even the days now. Pregnancy brain be blamed. But thankfully, right now I'm actually aware of the day! And the time! Miracle #1!

I'm actually on hold with my insurance company while I type this, waiting for some customer "concierge" (puh-lease) to tell me if and when I'm getting money back! I know... I know... and you thought I was actually a real blogger, serious about what I'm talking about. Truth is, I like to talk and I like to type and this just happens to be a good fit for me.

But anyway, as I sit here on hold, getting more and more annoyed by the wpm, I am wondering what I should even say about today? I'm going to a baby shower tonight and I'm VERY excited to meet the little lady that it's being held for. She is just gorgeous and I can't wait to get an up close look at her little face! The pictures alone have captivated me. In fact, I think Hudson may already have a secret crush on her. And she's older. Bonus! He's just like his Dad!

I guess I will maybe say a few things about some of my favorite blogs. Because you care. Mmmhmmm.

www.pioneerwoman.com is my ultimate #1 favorite blogger in the history of the world. She just is. If you don't believe me, go to her site and on the left hand side, click on 'black heels'. If you don't love her by the end of that, I would schedule a visit to the doctor's office. Or at least take your temperature.

AND... she just came out with a cookbook. I am buying one. Yep, I'm pretty lame. Well, let's take that back. The book just hit #1 on the NYT best seller list so that makes thousands of us.

Okay enough about that.

Next up... http://www.jodimichelle.com/ She just happens to be a cousin and she's pretty cool. In my opinion. So I like to read her blog. And she takes a mighty fine photo. You should check it out! Really.

I like this next guy because I like his music. It's different. http://johnmarkmcmillan.blogspot.com/

www.MightyGirl.com is an interesting one. Not my ultimate favorite but some funny stuff from time to time.

And I like a lot of other blogs too. Mostly my friends and I don't know if they'd want me posting their blogs so I'm not going to. Unless I get a text or email that says please post mine too!

With that said, I'm still on hold. The eternal question remains... will I get my money back?

And this one too... Aren't you glad your hair doesn't look like this?

What do I do with this??

Last night I had heard that St. Joseph's Hospital had changed their policies in the birthing center due to the H1N1 flu virus as a very BIG precaution for mommies and new babies. So I called today to confirm what was going on and how long this new policy would last. Ready for this?

1. Only spouse and one other person allowed in the birthing room. Total. And you can't switch that other person out.

2. No visitors at the hospital. Ever. Not in the waiting room or even after the baby and mom are transferred to another room.

3. Policy in duration until the end of flu season on April 1.

This is sad news. We have a very large family and this little baby is the first grandchild for both sides. And they will have to wait now until we get home to actually meet the handsome little fellow. Sad.

comments

My comment boxes have been so empty up until 2 days ago when I changed some mysterious setting. I don't know what happened but now they work. So you can comment right on the blog and that makes me happy!

And that's all I have to say tonight. Oh, and I also have to publicly declare that I had a delish chocolate shake just now... 24 grams of protein. So don't talk to me about late night eating. Bye for now.

Cute at first glance...

Maternity coats. I honestly didn't imagine myself having to think about this because I have this totally great winter coat with an empire waist that I bought last year. Well-he-elllll, not going to happen. That coat doesn't fit anymore and let's face it. It's starting to get colder.

I honestly don't think I anticipated the growth that was going to happen to my body. I mean, I've seen it many times over with my friends but on my very own body, I just didn't quite understand that growing a whole person is going to take up some space. Like a lot of space. Like, um, pants don't even get up over my thighs people. And I'm okay with all of it. But I just didn't know.

So now I do know... And I'm a living education to myself because I keep learning something new about how I personally respond to this "condition". On a side note: who ever termed pregnancy as a condition is a total nerd. I mean, a BIG one. Because so far, I haven't really had to do much except eat more (YES!!!) and my body has just done it's very own job. I am not sick, just pregnant. I am probably more healthy than ever. And it's all good! I kinda like it!

Ahem. Moving on.

Where was I? Oh, right... the coat. So big earth shattering news for your Friday afternoon commute. I bought one today. I know it's the right size because it fits in my shoulders and arms but geez, these clothing designers are sure planning ahead. Because although I'm over halfway to my due date, this coat is still pretty big. I almost didn't buy it. But then, (genius) I decided to sew new buttons on and make it smaller until I need it to be bigger. Because I do want to get bigger. Not for myself but for the little guy inside who needs to get bigger. And I will need a coat and don't really want to buy a new coat for every inch that I grow. Well, that could be fun but really... probably not a good investment in my marriage.

So here it is!!

It's cute right! If you don't think so, please hold comments until after I stop being hormonal... which means, don't ever tell me. Because I like it. And it's going to get worn a whole heck of a lot over the next few months. And I will probably move the buttons at least 3 times.

And I feel like Hudson will appreciate my efforts.

I think this might be "the one"

Honestly, I can't exactly say I've been displaying what would be considered normal range behavior for a crib consumer. I had a few days back in October when I was consumed with an online search for our little son's future bed. We're talking spreadsheets with colors, measurements, finishes, websites where to find them again (since I was all over the place and kept forgetting where I'd seen this or that...). Then after a firm shake from Luke, I calmed down a bit.

I had some specific constraints that I needed to stick with however, because I am not exactly purchasing the crib myself. My Dad and his wife have offered to buy it for us and they specifically asked that we pick one that was made domestically. You know, made in the USA or Canada. That was the only requirement. Fair enough.

Well, you'd be surprised how many companies really do make their furniture on this side of the Pacific. I found all sorts of styles and finishes and colors and odds and ends to choose from. But once we found out we were having a boy, it became crystal clear in my little head what kind of look I was going to aim for. And I know, I know, the baby doesn't really care but this is our first little person in our home and I care. I like a decorated room. I think that's not too much of a surprise.

So, for the future Hudson in our lives, I think we may have found "the one". I just need to see it in person and maybe scratch the finish (a wise friend told me to do so) and make sure it doesn't come off easily.

Wanna see what it looks like? Well, too bad. Here it is.

Can't you just see his handsome self sleeping ALL NIGHT here?

But if I change my mind, which I have been known to do, maybe I'll talk about it publicly... Someday.

Random Thought

I wonder if my love of bleached white towels is vetoing the environmentally friendly detergent I use in the laundry. Just a random thought I had while doing laundry.

And the sad thing is... the bleach just works too well. Moral dilemma? Maybe.

Birthing Class 1

Last night we attended our very first Bradley Method birthing class. I was a little unsure about what to expect because I have several friends who have gone in different cities and have heard everything from 'totally amazing' to 'totally granola but still worth it'. First off, our instructor Colleen was really great and totally normal! That may be an odd statement to make but we do live in a city that has some fairly granola vibes so you just never know when you go to a natural class on anything. But she was great. And not that I'm knocking granola because I like some granola stuff in small quantities. SMALL quantities. Because I also like other very un-granola things. Lots of them!

Now that we have that clear, let's move on.

Our first class was basically an introduction about the class and instructor, meeting everyone else in the class and then we hit the nitty gritty talk about exercise. I think Luke snorted out loud when she talked about exercising EVERY SINGLE DAY. Because I don't really do that. I mean, in a formal sense. I putter and move and probably walk up and down my stairs about 100 times a day but never all in a row and never enough to really claim any cardiac benefit. That just doesn't sound very fun. At least to me, anyway. I know SOME people who think exercise is really fun and do it all the time. There is help. www.awakeandarise.com. Check it out.

We also talked about labor/delivery specific preparation exercises. Luke threw out a few lewd comments during this part of the class that I pray nobody else heard. It was funny but not really funny if you don't know us. It would just be wrong if you didn't know us. Can we at least wait until week 3 before people actually maybe get to know us a bit better? And our dear instructor had to mention that with the "squatting" exercise, our birth partners need to remind us to do them whenever we have to pick something up. So of course, Luke was ordering me to squat to put on my shoes (how would they get on my feet???) and then when I grabbed my purse off the floor later that night. Gentle reminders please. Not orders. Thank-you very much. I don't do well with orders.

So that was our first class. From what I know about the Bradley Method, which encourages natural delivery, I know that this girl here is probably NOT what I will look like during the delivery of our sweet little boy...

But hey, it does look a little staged. But I also hope I don't look like a screaming banshee, ripping out my husbands hair and declaring my utter dislike for all that he did to me. I think I'll be somewhere in the middle. Or maybe I won't. Who can really know these things?

But when it's all over, I know for sure we'll have a lovely set of these...

to kiss and kiss and kiss some more! Have I ever mentioned that I LOVE baby feet? Well, now you know!

Just call me squatter, till next time!

The Fountain - my cup will runneth over!

Although Bellingham has a myriad of coffee shops (um... #4 in the nation per capita) I am so excited about 'The Fountain - coffee & wine bar" which is opening in the... wait for it... Fountain District. So predictable but really, genius. You don't ever have to wonder where the heck it is.

So here's why I'm excited about this place. It's going to be inexpensive. It's going to have really great contemporary but cozy decor. It's going to be open for breakfast, lunch, dinner and beyond. I know, tell me about it! I'm excited too!! Real food in a coffee shop atmosphere. ALL DAY!

And as we have a new baby on the way, I am already thinking about quick inexpensive dates that Luke and I can have in Bellingham after the baby is born. Just an hour here and there to sit and remind ourselves that in between all the feeding and not sleeping and diapers and learning to be parents that we were first just a guy and a girl who fell in love. I don't think we could give our baby a better gift than that.

Note to Self

This I must not do while pregnant:

• Try to move a queen size bed frame all by myself.
• Get a full night's sleep... I guess it's good prep (although, I have had many loving talks with our boy and we have come to an understanding about sleeping through the night)
• Eat whatever I want because I want all the stuff I'm not allowed to eat. Oh FETA, when will we meet again?
• Think that I can actually get my house organized before the baby arrives. We are simply too messy. But don't blame me for trying. Luke. Ahem.
• Spend time online comparing the size of my belly to other pregos and sighing in relief.
• Gag over and over because Tums Tablets are so gaggy.
• Think of killing my dog because he is getting less and less charming, especially when he barks like he's being paid per bark. Reminder: buy a bark collar. Double Reminder: love the little doggy because he's still pretty cute... for a wiener dog.

But who wants to think about all of that? Not I!

I think I'll go drink some milk.

11oz of BIG news!!!

So... yesterday was a very happy day for both Daddy-to-be and I!!! We went to our ultrasound not caring if our bubs was a boy or a girl. Really, no preference. And then the ultrasound tech announced right away that without a doubt, we had a little boy on the way. Well, let me tell you... I just had a few tears start to leak from the corner of my eyes. It just made it SO much more real for me... knowing that we didn't just have a baby coming, but Luke's new little buddy as well! If it had been a girl, it would be our future pumpkin or whatever but he's a buddy and I am beyond excited to announce that to everyone!!!!

Our tech was REALLY great and had almost as much fun as us with the appointment! We even got a couple of small movie clips of him working his stuff in my tummy! And he can sure work it! Luke has this really crazy dance he does with his feet when he's all worked up, especially at weddings (sigh) and wouldn't you know it but out little boy seems to have inherited the talent. When I saw it, I burst out laughing... where have we seen these moves before??? And I will proudly applaud Dad and son from the sidelines. Probably. Well, maybe just our boy.

So, here are some of the first shots I have to offer.

I can barely handle that face already... pretty cute!

And that belly!!!! Sigh.

Letter of Apology

Dear Skinny Jeans:

I am sorry I tried to put you on yesterday. It was not fair to you at all. You should never be stretched the way I tried to stretch you. You were meant to fit over my entire butt, not halfway. I'm sure you felt really embarrassed.

I promise I won't try to wear you again until a more appropriate time. This is my solemn promise. I would never want to make you feel the way you did yesterday. I am sorry.

Yours truly,

Wishful Thinking.

What happened?

So... I am not sure how this happened but I am a total domestic weirdo. I don't think it happened overnight but slowly, like... over more than a decade. Nope, wait. Earlier. My first memory of yearning to organize goes back to my friend Shereen's house. Her mom came home with a bunch of bags from Zellers (it's like Canadian Walmart/Kmart/etc) with all these drawer organizers and I was very curious. I remember going home and asking my mom why she didn't want to organize like that. The reason wasn't too impressive.

But somehow, despite a mom who didn't truly adore plastic, made in china and other places trays and baskets, I am a lost cause! It started slowly with endless aims at getting the cupboards totally ordered when I first got married. I didn't have much else to do until my work visa came through. Maybe it was a need to control something... and boy, do cans of soup bow to my will!

Then I met Ikea. That was a life altering moment. Enough said.

And now, today I must confess to all that I have met a new and endearing friend. Meet my friend Tupperware.

Now, I remember my mom having all sorts of parties for Tupperware and (big ugh) Weekender Wear. Does anyone remember that? I hope not. It was not a good choice. SO bad. I cringe even thinking about all the different ways you could "style" (VERY loosely used) those clothes. I think I need to take a cleansing breath.... okay, I feel better now.

Where was I? Oh, right. I had a Tupperware party at the end of September. And somehow I "saved" all sorts of money by spending all sorts of money. I think I cut out the last part of that sentence for my husband! I like it when he thinks I'm a good thrifty wife. And oh-ho boy, the large box of goodies with MY name on it was enough to make me do a little dance around the dining room. I really did! And my friends, I am now proud to show you the fruits of my labor.

BEFORE

And...

AFTER

BEFORE

AFTER

For some strange reason, everything is underlining... sorry.

But, more importantly, I think I want more, ahem, NEED more Tupperware. The end.

chaos and bellies

I am succumbing to the pressure to add some belly photos. I have been SO lazy about this because every time I think about taking a picture I am looking kinda scary. And people, let's just be honest. No matter how cute the belly is, if the face and everything else is just wrong, it's all wrong. And let's just say, there's been a lot of wrong lately!

Wedding craziness, bridal showers, clean-up from wedding, a house disaster after a week of up to 4 house guests, life = not so pretty.

However, Luke did take this photo back on October 3rd... which made me 15 weeks, 6 days. So even though I'm 17 weeks, 2 days today, this is the belly shot you get for today. Maybe there will be something else later this week!

Please excuse the blurriness... camera battery was dead... used a phone.

Oh, and p.s., I changed my comments setting so that you can comment even if you don't have a google account. So comment!