I *may* have written the schedule for three football teams (Cowboys, GT and TAMU) in my calendar today (plus the big games for TTU and UT).
You know, before I added my daughter's second birthday or my baby's due date. Bad mother, or huge football fan?
Monday, August 30, 2010
Let the countdown commence!
I've been playing mind games with myself for the past six weeks. I keep setting goals for my pregnancy, and feeling safer about the health of the new baby as I reach those goals. My first milestone is 27 weeks pregnant, which is right around the corner, and when Ella would have a much higher chance of survival than any earlier. My next goal is 30 weeks, because there would be a significantly lower chance of developmental issues once we reached that point. And of course my ultimate goal is 37 weeks when Ella will be full term, and fully developed. I'm also hoping to stay off bed rest until I reach 36 weeks pregnant, though there is not much I can do to control that. What I CAN do, I have been doing, which basically consists of voluntarily taking it easy.
The count down:
There are 80 days until Ella is considered full-term.
There are 101 days until my due date.
Which also means there are 99 days until Betsy turns two years old!
In other pregnancy news, I've been having a few Braxton-Hicks contractions a day (but less than I was having 6 weeks ago). My nausea is mostly gone. I can count on one hand the number of times I've been sick this pregnancy. I'm sleeping well, though I have to get up about five times per night for trips to the bathroom. And my weight gain has leveled out at about 1/2 pound per week. Overall we're in great shape :)
The count down:
There are 80 days until Ella is considered full-term.
There are 101 days until my due date.
Which also means there are 99 days until Betsy turns two years old!
In other pregnancy news, I've been having a few Braxton-Hicks contractions a day (but less than I was having 6 weeks ago). My nausea is mostly gone. I can count on one hand the number of times I've been sick this pregnancy. I'm sleeping well, though I have to get up about five times per night for trips to the bathroom. And my weight gain has leveled out at about 1/2 pound per week. Overall we're in great shape :)
Saturday, August 28, 2010
More Ella room pictures
I'm pretty much done with Ella's room! I'm waiting on two small things, the mobile for Ella's crib is on back order, it should be here in a few more weeks. Also, my mom is sewing a table runner for the round decorator table in the corner. I love the finished product. I was a little tired of pale pink and I think these bright green and pink colors are refreshing but still look young. I was worried these colors would look more like a pre-een's room but I think it came together well and is still age appropriate!
These baskets were $6.50 and the fabric cost $3. So less than $5 for each basket.
These baskets were $6.50 and the fabric cost $3. So less than $5 for each basket.
Friday, August 27, 2010
Nursery projects
A couple new projects I was working on today...
I bought these and I'm debating hanging them either over the tall dresser or behind the crib. (see the next two pictures)
I finally hung the ella letters over the changing table.
And I hemmed these curtains, and added the two toned ribbon. These panels only cost $18 and the ribbon was $4. I haven't decided if I LOVE how they turned out but I like how they look and I'm pleased with the price.
Tomorrows project...sewing gingham basket liners for baskets to hold diapers and baby supplies!
I bought these and I'm debating hanging them either over the tall dresser or behind the crib. (see the next two pictures)
I finally hung the ella letters over the changing table.
And I hemmed these curtains, and added the two toned ribbon. These panels only cost $18 and the ribbon was $4. I haven't decided if I LOVE how they turned out but I like how they look and I'm pleased with the price.
Tomorrows project...sewing gingham basket liners for baskets to hold diapers and baby supplies!
Spaghetti face
Betsy had her first spaghetti last night. It had meat sauce, which she normally does not like (beef) but she LOVED this. First she ate some of Ben’s penne pasta with red sauce, then she tried my angel hair pasta with red sauce. She was in HEAVEN. At one point she told Ben “Daddy, MORE, dats YUM YUM Mmmmmmmmm!”
Her technique is to throw her head back, hold the pasta over her mouth and lower it in, then shove all her fingers in her mouth to ‘show the pasta where to go’. She also had raspberry lemonade with dinner and it was a huge hit. We were too entertained watching her to eat much ourselves.
ALSO, how smart that we took her OUT to eat the day the maid came…spaghetti on my clean floors would have been a bummer. I also have to laugh at Ben who asks the funniest questions. Like when I was cleaning her hands off and he said "are you going to clean her face off?" I seriously said "No, I'm going to take her through the restaurant like this so the other patrons can see how to enjoy their spaghetti." Of course I DID clean her face off, and it's a good thing because we ran into a couple high school friends of Ben's on the way out the door.
I remember the first time I took Betsy out by myself he reminded me not to leave her in the car. I still tease him about that, to which he responds "Well, I didn't know what kind of mother you would be yet." Haha, thanks for the vote of confidence Ben ;)
Her technique is to throw her head back, hold the pasta over her mouth and lower it in, then shove all her fingers in her mouth to ‘show the pasta where to go’. She also had raspberry lemonade with dinner and it was a huge hit. We were too entertained watching her to eat much ourselves.
ALSO, how smart that we took her OUT to eat the day the maid came…spaghetti on my clean floors would have been a bummer. I also have to laugh at Ben who asks the funniest questions. Like when I was cleaning her hands off and he said "are you going to clean her face off?" I seriously said "No, I'm going to take her through the restaurant like this so the other patrons can see how to enjoy their spaghetti." Of course I DID clean her face off, and it's a good thing because we ran into a couple high school friends of Ben's on the way out the door.
I remember the first time I took Betsy out by myself he reminded me not to leave her in the car. I still tease him about that, to which he responds "Well, I didn't know what kind of mother you would be yet." Haha, thanks for the vote of confidence Ben ;)
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Better spirits
I got a great night of sleep last night, complete with a snuggly schnauzer cuddling my pregnant belly, a baby who spent all night in her own bed, and a husband who picked up around the house without me asking (he was 'cleaning before the maid comes').
Tomorrow is Friday (yay!). We don't have anything planned for Saturday and Sunday, but Ben has a super hectic schedule complete with a Cross Country meet early in the morning, and a football game late in the evening Friday. My plan is for him to rest as much as possible this weekend because I'm sure he's exhausted after the first week of school.
That's about all I have to report! Sweet Betsy is a chatter box, her new favorite word is feet, and her new favorite song is 'Row Your Boat' but you have to row her arms while you sing it.
Maybe I'll try to do an outdoor photo shoot tomorrow, since the weather is cooling off!
Tomorrow is Friday (yay!). We don't have anything planned for Saturday and Sunday, but Ben has a super hectic schedule complete with a Cross Country meet early in the morning, and a football game late in the evening Friday. My plan is for him to rest as much as possible this weekend because I'm sure he's exhausted after the first week of school.
That's about all I have to report! Sweet Betsy is a chatter box, her new favorite word is feet, and her new favorite song is 'Row Your Boat' but you have to row her arms while you sing it.
Maybe I'll try to do an outdoor photo shoot tomorrow, since the weather is cooling off!
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Crankapotomos
I'm a wee bit cranky today. My car battery died last night and had to be replaced after work. It could have been SO much worse, at least it happened at my in-laws house, and my father-in-law kept Betsy for an extra half hour while we jumped the car and took it to Auto Zone to get the battery replaced.
And then we went out to dinner, and I was just too tired to enjoy it. Though it could have been worse because it was late, after Betsy's bed time, but she just sat quietly eating tortilla chips and salsa. No melt downs. That's a success!
I'm just cranky because we got home late and I was swollen, and I felt like last night I got home, immediately fell asleep, immediately woke up and had to get ready for work. It could have been worse! Betsy snuggled with me this morning, making me NOT want to get out of bed, but making it easy to smile at 6 am.
And then we went out to dinner, and I was just too tired to enjoy it. Though it could have been worse because it was late, after Betsy's bed time, but she just sat quietly eating tortilla chips and salsa. No melt downs. That's a success!
I'm just cranky because we got home late and I was swollen, and I felt like last night I got home, immediately fell asleep, immediately woke up and had to get ready for work. It could have been worse! Betsy snuggled with me this morning, making me NOT want to get out of bed, but making it easy to smile at 6 am.
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Terrific Tuesday!
I don't have much to say this morning. Here's the sweet girl who didn't want to wake up today. I brought her in bed with me at five in the morning for some snuggling.
Also, I've been waking up with a growling stomach in the middle of the night. What would you do, roll over and go back to sleep or wake up and have a snack? I opt for sleep.
Also, I've been waking up with a growling stomach in the middle of the night. What would you do, roll over and go back to sleep or wake up and have a snack? I opt for sleep.
Sunday, August 22, 2010
Sweet Sunday
It's been a lazy Sunday around here! Betsy played in the playroom while Ben went grocery shopping and I slept in. We watched a movie 'She's Out of my League' and it was pretty cute. Then the three of us took a nap, woke up, had lunch. We gave Bets a bath and I sewed a couple little things. She went back down for another nap and Ben and I are watching Indiana Jones in bed.
Lazy Sunday! No other way I'd rather have it.
P.S. After two and a half days of low-key I have REAL ankles. NOT cankles. That's a reason to celebrate I think :)
Lazy Sunday! No other way I'd rather have it.
P.S. After two and a half days of low-key I have REAL ankles. NOT cankles. That's a reason to celebrate I think :)
Saturday, August 21, 2010
Slow Saturday
Today was pretty low-key. We ran errands for a while and ate a nice lunch out, then came home and all three of us took a long nap! Ben made dinner while I did some embroidering. I haven't touched my machine in months, but all these things took about an hour and I wanted to have something with Ella's name on it!
I love these little jackets from Target, only $4 each! I remember Betsy hating stuff being pulled over her head so I like the idea of this jacket. The Hudson jacket is for my little nephew, who should arrive close to Ella! They are due just three days apart!
I've promised to take it easy, and I have today! I watched a movie laying down, took a two hour nap laying down, and I'm laying in bed now watching the Cowboys play.
I love these little jackets from Target, only $4 each! I remember Betsy hating stuff being pulled over her head so I like the idea of this jacket. The Hudson jacket is for my little nephew, who should arrive close to Ella! They are due just three days apart!
I've promised to take it easy, and I have today! I watched a movie laying down, took a two hour nap laying down, and I'm laying in bed now watching the Cowboys play.
Friday, August 20, 2010
Doctor appointment, 24 weeks
I'm 24 weeks pregnant, yea!! According the pregnancy.org in the coming week Ella will grow to approximately 13.6 inches long and weigh 1.5 pounds. In the coming few weeks she'll basically double her weight.
Yesterday's appointment was great. I am SO relieved since I saw my doctor this time. Dr. Greene's method is the perfect balance of listening to my concerns and noting them, considering them, but not panicking about them. And not making ME panic about them.
My blood pressure was low (126/80), my weight gain was low (1.5 pounds) and we went ahead and checked things internally and I'm not dilated at all. This was my biggest fear, that because I've been having a ton of contractions I was going to have early labor.
My doctor assured me some women are more susceptible to Braxton Hicks contractions, and some are just very aware that they are happening. I'm one of these women! It's OK, as long as they aren't 5-10 minutes apart and for two hours or more. If this happens I need to come to the hospital and make sure everything is ok.
As for the pre-eclampsia, the doctor says I look like a perfectly healthy pregnant woman. There are several markers for pre-eclampsia, swelling and 'spilling protein' being two of them. I have these markers. I tend to 'puff' as the doctor says and the solution is to take it easy. Also, having been through PE once already I know the difference between normal and abnormal swelling. If it won't go away, it's a bad sign. I pay attention to my swelling first thing in the morning, a couple times a day at work, and at night before I go to bed. Blood pressure is still the biggest indicator for PE and while I've had a couple BP's higher than usual overall my BP is in the nice and healthy range.
Dr. Greene told me she's pretty sure I'll get sick again, but not until the end of my pregnancy. I feel like it's much less dangerous this time because I know what feels normal and what doesn't. That's so confusing the first time you have a baby! I'm also relieved that bed rest doesn't seem to be on the horizon anytime soon. I promised Dr. Greene that I intend to take it easy the rest of this pregnancy, so while I'm euphoric at the thought that I'm healthy, I'm going to try to limit my weekend activities to give myself plenty of rest.
Thank you for everyone's thoughts and prayers, I really appreciate them.
Yesterday's appointment was great. I am SO relieved since I saw my doctor this time. Dr. Greene's method is the perfect balance of listening to my concerns and noting them, considering them, but not panicking about them. And not making ME panic about them.
My blood pressure was low (126/80), my weight gain was low (1.5 pounds) and we went ahead and checked things internally and I'm not dilated at all. This was my biggest fear, that because I've been having a ton of contractions I was going to have early labor.
My doctor assured me some women are more susceptible to Braxton Hicks contractions, and some are just very aware that they are happening. I'm one of these women! It's OK, as long as they aren't 5-10 minutes apart and for two hours or more. If this happens I need to come to the hospital and make sure everything is ok.
As for the pre-eclampsia, the doctor says I look like a perfectly healthy pregnant woman. There are several markers for pre-eclampsia, swelling and 'spilling protein' being two of them. I have these markers. I tend to 'puff' as the doctor says and the solution is to take it easy. Also, having been through PE once already I know the difference between normal and abnormal swelling. If it won't go away, it's a bad sign. I pay attention to my swelling first thing in the morning, a couple times a day at work, and at night before I go to bed. Blood pressure is still the biggest indicator for PE and while I've had a couple BP's higher than usual overall my BP is in the nice and healthy range.
Dr. Greene told me she's pretty sure I'll get sick again, but not until the end of my pregnancy. I feel like it's much less dangerous this time because I know what feels normal and what doesn't. That's so confusing the first time you have a baby! I'm also relieved that bed rest doesn't seem to be on the horizon anytime soon. I promised Dr. Greene that I intend to take it easy the rest of this pregnancy, so while I'm euphoric at the thought that I'm healthy, I'm going to try to limit my weekend activities to give myself plenty of rest.
Thank you for everyone's thoughts and prayers, I really appreciate them.
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Ella's Room, take 1
The furniture is in place and the bedding has come in for Ella's room! I picked up curtains this weekend but I plan to embellish them as well (either with ribbon, ricrac or trim) and hem them too. The only other project I have in mind is to sew a decorative table cover for the decorator table in the room.
I'm looking for young-looking wall art to go in the room. The e-l-l-a letters will hang over the tall dresser, against the wall directly in front of you when you walk in the room. I also moved a cork board with ornate white frame from Betsy's room to hang over the book shelf and hold pictures of Ella and family.
I don't have much direction on what I want, but the space above the changing table is large and blank and I'm looking for ideas. Probably something primarily white, because I think the darker pink color in the bedding (and the ELLA letters) can look a little older than the baby phase and I don't want there to be wall decorations that look like they are suited to a pre-teen.
I'm also SO excited that sweet Tiffany and JD (my brother and sister-in-law) graciously offered to buy the mobile for the baby's room, as a thank you for throwing their baby shower! I think it'll add a little something extra to the room and while I know it's not a necessity there were lots of times when Betsy was a baby that I could turn the mobile on and have an extra five or ten minutes to put away laundry while she stayed entertained.
I would love some suggestions for wall decorations that compliment the crib bedding colors and patterns!
I'm looking for young-looking wall art to go in the room. The e-l-l-a letters will hang over the tall dresser, against the wall directly in front of you when you walk in the room. I also moved a cork board with ornate white frame from Betsy's room to hang over the book shelf and hold pictures of Ella and family.
I don't have much direction on what I want, but the space above the changing table is large and blank and I'm looking for ideas. Probably something primarily white, because I think the darker pink color in the bedding (and the ELLA letters) can look a little older than the baby phase and I don't want there to be wall decorations that look like they are suited to a pre-teen.
I'm also SO excited that sweet Tiffany and JD (my brother and sister-in-law) graciously offered to buy the mobile for the baby's room, as a thank you for throwing their baby shower! I think it'll add a little something extra to the room and while I know it's not a necessity there were lots of times when Betsy was a baby that I could turn the mobile on and have an extra five or ten minutes to put away laundry while she stayed entertained.
I would love some suggestions for wall decorations that compliment the crib bedding colors and patterns!
Big Girl Betsy room
I've been meaning to post pictures of Betsy's big girl room for a while. We bought the night stand and dresser from the unfinished furniture store, and I found the drawer pulls at Home Depot. No more changing table, it's really a big girl room!
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Just one of the guys
This weekend Granny noticed that Betsy does NOT play like any other little girl she's ever seen. She runs, jumps, climbs, chases, throws and kicks like a boy. In fact, the first night she was here my Mom started asking about Betsy's bruises. My response, "I dunno, she gets them at school or playing with her friends." She is a TOUGH GIRL. It takes a pretty traumatic injury for her to stop playing. I think this is because Betsy hangs out with boys often.
Most often is cousin William, who she has seen almost every day since she was two months old. Her cousin Isaiah also lives down the street and we see him on occasion. Betsy hangs out with little friend Ryder (and has done so since she was a week old, and he was born!). My brother and sister-in-law JD and Tiffany are expecting a little boy in December, as well as my cousin Jessica is expecting a little boy in about a week and a half! The big girl has pretty much NO local girl friends or cousins. It's a good thing she's getting a little sister! Betsy is also surrounded by some great male influences on a regular basis. There are so many wonderful men in her life!
Uncle Dusty teaches Betsy about the Dallas Cowboys, and reads Abby Cadaby books for her. Look, Uncle Dusty came to the hospital to try to help coax Betsy out of me!
Betsy with Uncle Sean. He teaches her about Aerospace Engineering and the Triple Option Offense.
Bets with Hippie. He teaches her about fishing, and how to do home repairs. (He also introduced her to pizza, thanks a lot Hippie!)
Bets with Grandpa. He teaches her about the Aggies, and how to take care of the puppies.
Bets with Grandpa Floyd. Floyd is gracious enough to share hugs with Betsy, and a tea party or two.
Bets with Uncle JD. He teaches her about Disney movies, and Will Ferrel.
Bets with Daddy. He teaches Betsy how to play soccer, change the channel, introduced her to the Bralley Special (macaroni and cheese with hamburger meat) and how to make fun of contestants on 'Wipe Out'. He also peels and splits an apple with Betsy most nights (but not with ME!).
Cousin William.
Cousin Isaiah
Boyfriend Ryder
Betsy is a running...
soccer playing...
climbing...
wrestling
snowball throwing...
fort building...
fish touching machine!!
We'll see how long Betsy's tomboy phase lasts.
Most often is cousin William, who she has seen almost every day since she was two months old. Her cousin Isaiah also lives down the street and we see him on occasion. Betsy hangs out with little friend Ryder (and has done so since she was a week old, and he was born!). My brother and sister-in-law JD and Tiffany are expecting a little boy in December, as well as my cousin Jessica is expecting a little boy in about a week and a half! The big girl has pretty much NO local girl friends or cousins. It's a good thing she's getting a little sister! Betsy is also surrounded by some great male influences on a regular basis. There are so many wonderful men in her life!
Uncle Dusty teaches Betsy about the Dallas Cowboys, and reads Abby Cadaby books for her. Look, Uncle Dusty came to the hospital to try to help coax Betsy out of me!
Betsy with Uncle Sean. He teaches her about Aerospace Engineering and the Triple Option Offense.
Bets with Hippie. He teaches her about fishing, and how to do home repairs. (He also introduced her to pizza, thanks a lot Hippie!)
Bets with Grandpa. He teaches her about the Aggies, and how to take care of the puppies.
Bets with Grandpa Floyd. Floyd is gracious enough to share hugs with Betsy, and a tea party or two.
Bets with Uncle JD. He teaches her about Disney movies, and Will Ferrel.
Bets with Daddy. He teaches Betsy how to play soccer, change the channel, introduced her to the Bralley Special (macaroni and cheese with hamburger meat) and how to make fun of contestants on 'Wipe Out'. He also peels and splits an apple with Betsy most nights (but not with ME!).
Cousin William.
Cousin Isaiah
Boyfriend Ryder
Betsy is a running...
soccer playing...
climbing...
wrestling
snowball throwing...
fort building...
fish touching machine!!
We'll see how long Betsy's tomboy phase lasts.
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Name that baby!
We've agreed on a name,
it took months to decide,
so if you don't like it,
don't say anything snide!
She will be named Ella Coy Bralley.
Ella, just because we like it, and we think it's feminine and sweet. Coy she will share with myself, her Hippie (my dad), her Great-Great Uncle Bud, and her third cousin Kevin.
LET THE MONOGRAMMING BEGIN!
it took months to decide,
so if you don't like it,
don't say anything snide!
She will be named Ella Coy Bralley.
Ella, just because we like it, and we think it's feminine and sweet. Coy she will share with myself, her Hippie (my dad), her Great-Great Uncle Bud, and her third cousin Kevin.
LET THE MONOGRAMMING BEGIN!
The terrible twos
A couple times this past weekend my Mom would say aloud "Is there a two year old in this house?" Betsy has developed this habit of throwing a tantrum when she doesn't get what she wants. I can usually figure out why she is throwing a tantrum (she wanted the whole box of goldfish, not just a handful in a cup that I gave her). Yesterday she threw about 3 tantrums. This morning there was another one. I emailed my Mom and offered to mail her to Atlanta and she accepted the offer.
No, really, it's not that bad. Her crying doesn't get to me (though it DOES get to Ben). If she cries before bed I tell him to stay tough and as soon as I say "You can get her if you want," he sprints down the hall and cuddles his girl.
I think this is all compounded by teething. She's been sticking her two fingers in her mouth and I think the two year old molars are coming in. And mostly her tantrums are at night, when I know she's exhausted after a full school day.
We've been lucky enough not to experience a tantrum yet outside of the house. When she starts to throw a fit I just leave her on the ground, walk into another room and start doing a chore. She figured this out, and once yesterday she actually stopped crying, stood up, followed me into the kitchen, laid back down and started crying again. Then I laughed at her and walked into the living room. And she stopped fussing, followed me into the living room, sat on my lab and shared my pesto chicken with me.
Today I did some research on habits to help avoid tantrums, and what to do when they happen. I'd love input from the moms of older babies! I'm amazed that it's like someone flipped a light switch and Betsy is acting like a two year old. She wants to do EVERYTHING for herself. She wants to chose for herself. She wants to communicate for herself. Moms of older ones, tell me your tricks!!
No, really, it's not that bad. Her crying doesn't get to me (though it DOES get to Ben). If she cries before bed I tell him to stay tough and as soon as I say "You can get her if you want," he sprints down the hall and cuddles his girl.
I think this is all compounded by teething. She's been sticking her two fingers in her mouth and I think the two year old molars are coming in. And mostly her tantrums are at night, when I know she's exhausted after a full school day.
We've been lucky enough not to experience a tantrum yet outside of the house. When she starts to throw a fit I just leave her on the ground, walk into another room and start doing a chore. She figured this out, and once yesterday she actually stopped crying, stood up, followed me into the kitchen, laid back down and started crying again. Then I laughed at her and walked into the living room. And she stopped fussing, followed me into the living room, sat on my lab and shared my pesto chicken with me.
Today I did some research on habits to help avoid tantrums, and what to do when they happen. I'd love input from the moms of older babies! I'm amazed that it's like someone flipped a light switch and Betsy is acting like a two year old. She wants to do EVERYTHING for herself. She wants to chose for herself. She wants to communicate for herself. Moms of older ones, tell me your tricks!!
Monday, August 16, 2010
A Healthy Baby, long and rambling
I know there are complications that women can have with pregnancy that are much more severe and scary than pre-eclampsia. I've been reflecting a lot on how having pre-eclampsia has developed my perspective on having babies. My views haven't changed much, but has made them much more intense and resolved.
I know I took for granted the ability to have children before I was married and really thought about creating a baby with Ben. I don't do this so much anymore. I know too many people who have struggled to conceive, couples who have had to undergo expensive and painful fertility treatments, or women who lost the baby (or several babies) in miscarriages, or who carried the baby full term and the baby was stillborn, or even the child became a part of their lives for a couple hours, days or months before going to heaven.
Some of these people are online friends of mine. Some are friends I've known for many years, and some are family. I'll share these stories with Ben when I'm made aware of them and we truly grieve for these families. Betsy has become such an integral part of our lives that the thought of another family missing or losing that makes our hearts ache. While Ben is a man's man, in other ways he is the most sensitive man I have ever met.
When Ben and I first found out I was pregnant with Betsy we would say "We just want a healthy baby." This was true, however we may have had a couple secret wishes lurking deep in the back of our mind like...we just want a (super intelligent, athletic, good looking) healthy baby. Who doesn't hope for those things for their child? God gave us Betsy and she is just about as perfect as we could have ever hoped for. Does she throw tantrums on occasion? Of course. But overall we couldn't be happier with how things have gone.
After Betsy was born when I got sick, I remember being in the hospital and feeling I would never get well. I was one week postpartum and separated from my newborn, and miserable. When I finally broke out/ was released from the hospital my perspective on having a newborn was that it was easy. I've never felt super frustrated, so sleep deprived that I just wanted her to shut up and fall asleep. I'm not the post patient of all people so I don't know why I thought motherhood was so easy, but I think the short time I had to be away from my baby and unable to care for her at the very beginning developed my appreciation for her.
Now with this pregnancy we've determined at 20 weeks pregnant that I was already on the road to pre-eclampsia again and it terrified me! I was very distraught for a couple of days while it sank in that at 20 weeks pregnant I was in pretty bad shape. In the last week I've started having contractions which further scared me into thinking I'm going to go into premature labor and have a micro preemie baby.
I'm not trying to be a drama queen. I checked in with my doctor and they think everything is OK based on the information I've given them, but I have an appointment tomorrow and I'm looking forward to spilling my guts to my doctor about what's been happening with my body. I've been doing everything I can to avoid high blood pressure. I've been laying down at least twice a day with my feet up. I check my blood pressure regularly. I'm eating healthy. But starting contractions scares me. I can't have this baby this early! I'm in my 24th week! I need to make it at least 6 more weeks, preferably 13 more weeks for this baby to have sufficient time to develop.
What brought this blog post about was my mom's visit this weekend. There are things I don't even want to blurt out to Ben because I don't want to get him worked up and worried. But saying aloud "I'm worried I'm going to go into labor too early and she won't survive. I'm worried I'll get too sick to take care of her. I'm worried I'll lose this baby and won't be able to go through pregnancy again." not to mention articulating lesser worries "I worry I'll get put on bed rest and be unable to take care of Betsy. I worry how we'll pay my medical bills if I can't work. I worry it's bad for the baby that I worry."
We mean it when we say "We just want a healthy baby." I pray for her all the time.
I know I took for granted the ability to have children before I was married and really thought about creating a baby with Ben. I don't do this so much anymore. I know too many people who have struggled to conceive, couples who have had to undergo expensive and painful fertility treatments, or women who lost the baby (or several babies) in miscarriages, or who carried the baby full term and the baby was stillborn, or even the child became a part of their lives for a couple hours, days or months before going to heaven.
Some of these people are online friends of mine. Some are friends I've known for many years, and some are family. I'll share these stories with Ben when I'm made aware of them and we truly grieve for these families. Betsy has become such an integral part of our lives that the thought of another family missing or losing that makes our hearts ache. While Ben is a man's man, in other ways he is the most sensitive man I have ever met.
When Ben and I first found out I was pregnant with Betsy we would say "We just want a healthy baby." This was true, however we may have had a couple secret wishes lurking deep in the back of our mind like...we just want a (super intelligent, athletic, good looking) healthy baby. Who doesn't hope for those things for their child? God gave us Betsy and she is just about as perfect as we could have ever hoped for. Does she throw tantrums on occasion? Of course. But overall we couldn't be happier with how things have gone.
After Betsy was born when I got sick, I remember being in the hospital and feeling I would never get well. I was one week postpartum and separated from my newborn, and miserable. When I finally broke out/ was released from the hospital my perspective on having a newborn was that it was easy. I've never felt super frustrated, so sleep deprived that I just wanted her to shut up and fall asleep. I'm not the post patient of all people so I don't know why I thought motherhood was so easy, but I think the short time I had to be away from my baby and unable to care for her at the very beginning developed my appreciation for her.
Now with this pregnancy we've determined at 20 weeks pregnant that I was already on the road to pre-eclampsia again and it terrified me! I was very distraught for a couple of days while it sank in that at 20 weeks pregnant I was in pretty bad shape. In the last week I've started having contractions which further scared me into thinking I'm going to go into premature labor and have a micro preemie baby.
I'm not trying to be a drama queen. I checked in with my doctor and they think everything is OK based on the information I've given them, but I have an appointment tomorrow and I'm looking forward to spilling my guts to my doctor about what's been happening with my body. I've been doing everything I can to avoid high blood pressure. I've been laying down at least twice a day with my feet up. I check my blood pressure regularly. I'm eating healthy. But starting contractions scares me. I can't have this baby this early! I'm in my 24th week! I need to make it at least 6 more weeks, preferably 13 more weeks for this baby to have sufficient time to develop.
What brought this blog post about was my mom's visit this weekend. There are things I don't even want to blurt out to Ben because I don't want to get him worked up and worried. But saying aloud "I'm worried I'm going to go into labor too early and she won't survive. I'm worried I'll get too sick to take care of her. I'm worried I'll lose this baby and won't be able to go through pregnancy again." not to mention articulating lesser worries "I worry I'll get put on bed rest and be unable to take care of Betsy. I worry how we'll pay my medical bills if I can't work. I worry it's bad for the baby that I worry."
We mean it when we say "We just want a healthy baby." I pray for her all the time.
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Time Warp
No matter what time I awake weekday mornings I seem to leave the house at the same time. No matter what time I leave the house, and no matter how many stops I must make on the way to work I arrive at work the same time every day. This morning I woke up 15 minutes early to pick up before the cleaning people came, give myself extra time to drop Madison off at Grandpa's house, drop Bets off at school, and get to work a little early as I had to interview a candidate at 7:30.
I find this time warp to be strange. I get out the door at 6:50 every day. I get to daycare at 7:15. I get to work at 7:26.
Do you experience a morning time warp too?
I find this time warp to be strange. I get out the door at 6:50 every day. I get to daycare at 7:15. I get to work at 7:26.
Do you experience a morning time warp too?
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Assume the position
...the position is on my back with my feet elevated to over my heart.
In a recent development here at work, my boss found a really nice sofa in the building surplus department and had it delivered to my office! We rearranged and it's a little more crowded but it'll make-do. AND, this means I have somewhere to lie down and put my feet up a couple times a day!
I did this for 20 minutes over my lunch break and I plan to do this again for 10 minutes this afternoon. I can feel the difference in my feet, I can move my cankles in a full circle because there's less swelling!
I'm so glad for this development!
In a recent development here at work, my boss found a really nice sofa in the building surplus department and had it delivered to my office! We rearranged and it's a little more crowded but it'll make-do. AND, this means I have somewhere to lie down and put my feet up a couple times a day!
I did this for 20 minutes over my lunch break and I plan to do this again for 10 minutes this afternoon. I can feel the difference in my feet, I can move my cankles in a full circle because there's less swelling!
I'm so glad for this development!
Saturday, August 7, 2010
Cleaning Service Sucess!
I was really happy that the owner of the cleaning company came to meet with us, and Ben could be here when she came over. We were uncomfortable with the idea of a stranger coming into our home to clean but this company is bonded, insured, a member of the Better Business Bureau and the Chamber of Commerce. We talked about the services they offered and the cost and we decided to sign up for the service.
Ben was not thrilled about spending the money to do this but there is no doubt that it's impossible in the fall for him to do anything around the house except for Sundays. After the long work week I've determined that if I don't get off my feet as soon as I get home in the evening my swelling doesn't go away by the morning.
I think reading the list of things they do when cleaning showed Ben that it's really a beneficial idea to do these things. We don't get around the cleaning the blinds too often, or the base boards, or the ceiling fans. I can manage a quick wipe down of the bathrooms a couple times per week, but the idea of someone coming in and mopping our 1500 square feet of tile (soon to be 1800 when my Dad tiles the girls' rooms) has me ecstatic.
I'm not sure that we will continue with this service long-term, but it's nice to have one big thing off my to-do list for a few months!
Ben was not thrilled about spending the money to do this but there is no doubt that it's impossible in the fall for him to do anything around the house except for Sundays. After the long work week I've determined that if I don't get off my feet as soon as I get home in the evening my swelling doesn't go away by the morning.
I think reading the list of things they do when cleaning showed Ben that it's really a beneficial idea to do these things. We don't get around the cleaning the blinds too often, or the base boards, or the ceiling fans. I can manage a quick wipe down of the bathrooms a couple times per week, but the idea of someone coming in and mopping our 1500 square feet of tile (soon to be 1800 when my Dad tiles the girls' rooms) has me ecstatic.
I'm not sure that we will continue with this service long-term, but it's nice to have one big thing off my to-do list for a few months!
Friday, August 6, 2010
Let the weekend commence!
I am ex-hau-sted!
This was the first week of registration at work and I spent about 50 hours at work, keeping busy. I came home and basically fell asleep. Not much got done around the house (by me at least) and I didn't even see Betsy before bed last night (boo!). Luckily she was just as cute this morning as she was the day before.
Ben went to pick up Betsy's big girl furniture today and I can't wait to get home and see it! I need to pick up drawer knobs for the dresser (it came with plain wooden knobs) and move all Betsy's clothes and stuff over. Her room is going to become a BIG GIRL room tonight! A night stand! No more changing table!
This afternoon we have a woman from a cleaning company coming to give us an estimate. I don't dislike cleaning, but if I don't rest as soon as I get home these days my swelling won't go down by the next morning :/ Not to mention Ben's crazy fall schedule, I can't in good conscience expect him to clean the house on Sundays, his only day off. He still has other things to do, like mowing the lawn (a chore he likes) and grocery shopping (another one he likes). I'm keeping my fingers crossed that the cleaning lady gives us a reasonable estimate and we start with them immediately.
I think that's all I have to report for now, but I promise some pictures this weekend. Of the new big girl room, and the big girl too at the very least!
This was the first week of registration at work and I spent about 50 hours at work, keeping busy. I came home and basically fell asleep. Not much got done around the house (by me at least) and I didn't even see Betsy before bed last night (boo!). Luckily she was just as cute this morning as she was the day before.
Ben went to pick up Betsy's big girl furniture today and I can't wait to get home and see it! I need to pick up drawer knobs for the dresser (it came with plain wooden knobs) and move all Betsy's clothes and stuff over. Her room is going to become a BIG GIRL room tonight! A night stand! No more changing table!
This afternoon we have a woman from a cleaning company coming to give us an estimate. I don't dislike cleaning, but if I don't rest as soon as I get home these days my swelling won't go down by the next morning :/ Not to mention Ben's crazy fall schedule, I can't in good conscience expect him to clean the house on Sundays, his only day off. He still has other things to do, like mowing the lawn (a chore he likes) and grocery shopping (another one he likes). I'm keeping my fingers crossed that the cleaning lady gives us a reasonable estimate and we start with them immediately.
I think that's all I have to report for now, but I promise some pictures this weekend. Of the new big girl room, and the big girl too at the very least!
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Alphabet Soup
The only cartoons Betsy likes are those on PBS. On weekday mornings she watches a few minutes of 'Martha Speaks' about a dog who eats a bowl of alphabet soup and the letters get lost on the way to her stomach, go to her brain so she suddenly knows how to speak! This must be what happened to Betsy this morning, someone fed her alphabet soup.
Once she was ready and I was getting ready she grabbed the case that holds my blood pressure cuff, put it over her wrist like a purse and said
"Bye Mommy! *wave* Have a great day!"
We progress to the kitchen (she's already eaten a cereal bar and a banana). While I'm packing her lunch she gets a granola bar out of the pantry and chases me around the house with it. She tells me "Eat your breakfast!" (bossy much?!)
We get to school and I lead her into her class room. Her teacher says "Hello Betsy! How are you doing?"
Betsy says, "I'm fine, how are you doing?"
Who is this mini person living in my home?!
Once she was ready and I was getting ready she grabbed the case that holds my blood pressure cuff, put it over her wrist like a purse and said
"Bye Mommy! *wave* Have a great day!"
We progress to the kitchen (she's already eaten a cereal bar and a banana). While I'm packing her lunch she gets a granola bar out of the pantry and chases me around the house with it. She tells me "Eat your breakfast!" (bossy much?!)
We get to school and I lead her into her class room. Her teacher says "Hello Betsy! How are you doing?"
Betsy says, "I'm fine, how are you doing?"
Who is this mini person living in my home?!
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Intuition
With my last pregnancy I nested really early. I was driven to get my Christmas shopping done early, and get my house ready for Betsy's arrival. With my mouth I said one thing (this baby is probably going to come late, and I hope to work up to my due date!) but my actions told another story. I think my intuition told me Betsy would come early.
My intuition tells me this baby is going to come early, and maybe even be premature. I want to not deliver until the baby is full term (37 weeks) but I have all these thoughts like...this baby is SO active and from such an early point in my pregnancy. Is this so I know baby is strong and healthy and is going to be a fighter? Of course this could all be me projecting all my fears of pregnancy complications and pre-eclampsia to mean something it doesn't. I guess we'll just have to wait and see. I have 18 more weeks to go until my due date. That means 15 more weeks until this baby is full-term.
This pregnancy is flying by and I try to make the most of each day. I try to make the most of my time with Betsy as this is the last time she'll be an only child. Slowly but surely we're getting ready, and I'm looking forward to a house full of little Bralley princesses (Betsy, New Baby, and Madison of course!).
My intuition tells me this baby is going to come early, and maybe even be premature. I want to not deliver until the baby is full term (37 weeks) but I have all these thoughts like...this baby is SO active and from such an early point in my pregnancy. Is this so I know baby is strong and healthy and is going to be a fighter? Of course this could all be me projecting all my fears of pregnancy complications and pre-eclampsia to mean something it doesn't. I guess we'll just have to wait and see. I have 18 more weeks to go until my due date. That means 15 more weeks until this baby is full-term.
This pregnancy is flying by and I try to make the most of each day. I try to make the most of my time with Betsy as this is the last time she'll be an only child. Slowly but surely we're getting ready, and I'm looking forward to a house full of little Bralley princesses (Betsy, New Baby, and Madison of course!).
Monday, August 2, 2010
10 minute update
Here's a quick post about the happenings around these parts!
1. Registration began at the college today and therefor I am super busy at work. LOTS of overtime, and the days fly by (that's pretty nice, I didn't look at the clock once between 7:30 and 12 today. Cross country practice officially began this morning, though I haven't talked to Ben about how it went. I think football starts in a week and we won't be seeing much of Ben for a while after that!
2. I'm really excited to be throwing a baby shower for my brother and sister in law in a week and a half! It's cowboy themed and it's been pretty easy to plan.
3. My mom is visiting in a week and a half and I cannot wait to see her! Somehow her presence is both soothing and conducive to me being productive.
4. Betsy's big girl furniture will be ready this weekend! I can't wait to pick it up and organize her room and move the other furniture to New Baby's room.
5. Obviously we haven't decided a name yet, because I literally refer to the kiddo in utero as 'new baby'.
6. I touched up the paint in NB's room last night! It looks much better. Ben put together the crib so it is slowly but surely becoming a nursery!
7. We went to the outlet mall and lunch yesterday and met up with Uncle JD. The boys had A BALL at the Carters outlet. Ben picked stuff for JD's little boy and JD bought a kitty outfit for Ben's little girl. How adorable are they? We also exchanged the (beautiful but pricey) diaper bag Ben surprised me with for my birthday for a less expensive purse at the Coach outlet. I love the purse, and I feel 50% as guilty about the money spent as the cost was 50% that of the diaper bag.
8. Ben has an ear infection and I hope he went to the doctor today. I hate when he's sick but it was kind of like having another baby in the house. I pushed Tylenol on him every four hours. I rubbed his back as he went to sleep. And Betsy climbed in bed, patted his back and said "Poor big baby". That is one insightful kid.
9. Betsy had her first injury this weekend. She slammed her finger in a door and screamed bloody murder. Within 60 seconds she was over it, and jumping on the bed I might add, but I stood there with tears in my eyes and an expression of horror on my face for a long time.
10. And because I know the family wonders how I'm doing, my blood pressure has consistently been low since my doctor appointment. It averages about 112/80.
1. Registration began at the college today and therefor I am super busy at work. LOTS of overtime, and the days fly by (that's pretty nice, I didn't look at the clock once between 7:30 and 12 today. Cross country practice officially began this morning, though I haven't talked to Ben about how it went. I think football starts in a week and we won't be seeing much of Ben for a while after that!
2. I'm really excited to be throwing a baby shower for my brother and sister in law in a week and a half! It's cowboy themed and it's been pretty easy to plan.
3. My mom is visiting in a week and a half and I cannot wait to see her! Somehow her presence is both soothing and conducive to me being productive.
4. Betsy's big girl furniture will be ready this weekend! I can't wait to pick it up and organize her room and move the other furniture to New Baby's room.
5. Obviously we haven't decided a name yet, because I literally refer to the kiddo in utero as 'new baby'.
6. I touched up the paint in NB's room last night! It looks much better. Ben put together the crib so it is slowly but surely becoming a nursery!
7. We went to the outlet mall and lunch yesterday and met up with Uncle JD. The boys had A BALL at the Carters outlet. Ben picked stuff for JD's little boy and JD bought a kitty outfit for Ben's little girl. How adorable are they? We also exchanged the (beautiful but pricey) diaper bag Ben surprised me with for my birthday for a less expensive purse at the Coach outlet. I love the purse, and I feel 50% as guilty about the money spent as the cost was 50% that of the diaper bag.
8. Ben has an ear infection and I hope he went to the doctor today. I hate when he's sick but it was kind of like having another baby in the house. I pushed Tylenol on him every four hours. I rubbed his back as he went to sleep. And Betsy climbed in bed, patted his back and said "Poor big baby". That is one insightful kid.
9. Betsy had her first injury this weekend. She slammed her finger in a door and screamed bloody murder. Within 60 seconds she was over it, and jumping on the bed I might add, but I stood there with tears in my eyes and an expression of horror on my face for a long time.
10. And because I know the family wonders how I'm doing, my blood pressure has consistently been low since my doctor appointment. It averages about 112/80.
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