It's true, in just a few short days I will be 36 weeks pregnant, or 9 months. That is really something. There are days when I feel like this pregnancy has gone on forever, and there are days when I feel like it was incredibly short and holy-crap I'm going to be a mommy in about a month. However, I do have some updates on the joys and pains of being 9 months pregnant.
Joy:
- Finn is kicking like crazy, he moves around all the time. I have found that he especially loves movies. He just goes nuts with all the surround sound, which is really kind of funny.
Pain:
- Finn is kicking like crazy, and sometimes it legitimately hurts. Also, on the topic of movies, it's not that fun to go to the movies because you are NEVER comfortable, can't get comfortable, and have to get up to use the bathroom at least twice during a long movie.
Joy:
- Eating...I am hungry a lot, and therefore get a lot of great food, especially through the holidays.
Pain:
- Eating- I seem to have only two levels--really hungry or really full and neither of these are very comfortable. Also, heartburn remains a huge problem, so I constantly have to be thinking about what will/ will not give me a rampant case of heartburn.
- Eating- I also appear to have gotten to the gigantic stage of pregnancy where people think to themselves "Can she actually fit inside a booth?" Seriously, I have gotten asked that, which is actually thoughtful because sometimes I legitimately feel uncomfortable sitting in a booth; however, it does not make it less embarassing, in case you were wondering.
Joy:
- We have hired our doula, and are pretty excited about it. She is awesome, and seems to be exactly what we wanted. She stressed that she was hired to be an emotional support to us, and to let her know (and don't be shy) about what we need. Both Randy and I are really excited about all of this.
Okay, well this was supposed to be longer...but Randy just got here with breakfast, and I will just tell you that there are a lot of joys AND pains about pregnancy.
Thursday, December 30, 2010
Sunday, December 26, 2010
The most wonderful time of the year
Christmas was wonderful-legitimately wonderful. I haven't had a Christmas this relaxing, fun and happy for quite a few years. This does not mean that my past Christmases have been bad at all, just that this one was especially great.
First, let me report that we have officially told family THE name. Want to hear it? I think that mostly only family reads this, but in case someone else decides to read this. The name is (drumroll please) Finn. Finn is based on a combination of Huckleberry Finn and Atticus Finch. We are still deciding on the middle name, it is currently between three (I think it's really between two). If you are reading this and I haven't already told you--please don't write about it on facebook, it's not FBO yet. :) Telling the name was much more smooth than I anticipated it being. I think everyone liked it, if they didn't--they acted like they did, and that was good enough for me! :)
Christmas really started for us on Christmas Eve. We had our first "official" get-together at our house, which was really exciting for us. We set up things, and cooked, and baked to get ready for it. We were really excited, and we think it was a success. We made meatballs, spinach-artichoke dip, chips & ranch dip, br-oreo's, chocolate covered pretzels, cookies, etc. It was kind of lame, but it was exciting for us and we made a big deal about it. My mom, dad, grandpa and Ashley came over and we ate and watched It's a Wonderful Life. It was relaxing and fun. The best part of the night was that my mom and dad brought over two really awesome presents. First, my mom brought the blanket that was in my crib as a baby, and my dad brought over the rocking horse that he made for Finn, which is so beautiful, and so incredibly special because my dad made it. I don't think my dad realizes, or understands how much we appreciate what he makes for us. It is truly a priceless heirloom for us, and it's gorgeous. I can't wait for Finn to play with it. After we watched the movie, we went to church, which was good, but it was also REALLY late, which is rough on me lately.
Part of our pretty spread :)
First, let me report that we have officially told family THE name. Want to hear it? I think that mostly only family reads this, but in case someone else decides to read this. The name is (drumroll please) Finn. Finn is based on a combination of Huckleberry Finn and Atticus Finch. We are still deciding on the middle name, it is currently between three (I think it's really between two). If you are reading this and I haven't already told you--please don't write about it on facebook, it's not FBO yet. :) Telling the name was much more smooth than I anticipated it being. I think everyone liked it, if they didn't--they acted like they did, and that was good enough for me! :)
Christmas really started for us on Christmas Eve. We had our first "official" get-together at our house, which was really exciting for us. We set up things, and cooked, and baked to get ready for it. We were really excited, and we think it was a success. We made meatballs, spinach-artichoke dip, chips & ranch dip, br-oreo's, chocolate covered pretzels, cookies, etc. It was kind of lame, but it was exciting for us and we made a big deal about it. My mom, dad, grandpa and Ashley came over and we ate and watched It's a Wonderful Life. It was relaxing and fun. The best part of the night was that my mom and dad brought over two really awesome presents. First, my mom brought the blanket that was in my crib as a baby, and my dad brought over the rocking horse that he made for Finn, which is so beautiful, and so incredibly special because my dad made it. I don't think my dad realizes, or understands how much we appreciate what he makes for us. It is truly a priceless heirloom for us, and it's gorgeous. I can't wait for Finn to play with it. After we watched the movie, we went to church, which was good, but it was also REALLY late, which is rough on me lately.
Part of our pretty spread :)Christmas day was even better! Randy woke up WAY too early (before 6 a.m.), and we started opening our presents, which is always great. I bought Randy a table saw, a circular saw, socks, underwear, undershirts and some CD's that he wanted. Randy got me a pandora bracelet, two charms, the first season of Glee and Eclipse. We tried to stick to a budget this year, and did pretty well. It was a great morning. We then headed off to the Hoyle's for Christmas breakfast. We ate bagels, apple pancakes and (Randy had) bacon. Everything was delicious, and it was such a nice, relaxing morning. We opened our approximately 1 million gifts and we both got a TON of great stuff from everyone. Highlights included Christmas decorations, a Keurig, cologne for Randy, Butterbeer body polish, Burt's Bee's gift set and a beautiful necklace :) Finn also made out like a bandit! He got a homemade blanket from his Aunt Betty, which is gorgeous, three adorable outfits and even more loot. He is a lucky man! After opening presents, and announcing his name, we got to sit, relax and talk, which was really nice. It was great to not have to be in a rush all day.
One of the great gifts that we got at the Hoyle Christmas :)
We then made our way to our next destination--my parent's house. We got some bad news earlier in the day. My sister and brother-in-law both had strep throat and weren't able to make it, but John was able to bring the kids down, so at least we were able to see them. This put a bit of a wrench in our name plans, because there wasn't an opportunity for the entire family to be together. We decided to tell my parents first, and they really liked the name, which was a relief. People then started trickling in and we opened gifts, and ate dinner. We got a lot of great gifts. Some of the highlights were a few giftcards, diapers, and some great soap that my Aunt makes. Finn made out like a bandit at the Norris household too (he is already spoiled :)) he got some new books (ones that his mommy really wanted), a snowsuit to come home in, a Cubs hoodie, and even a few toys. He is a very lucky boy to be so loved. After dinner we went home to pick up Ella (some people had begun to leave), and brought her back so she could play with Phia and Emma. We were able to sit and talk and drink with my mom, dad, Ashley and Laura for a few hours. It was really, REALLY fun and it was nice to be able to sit and talk and joke around.
Little peanut Addy, full of Christmas cheer :)
I know that this is kind of a boring post. I mostly just wanted to re-cap my Christmas. It was fabulous, and I loved it. I am so grateful for Randy, Finn, Ella and both of our amazing families--presents are great, but that is the best present of all. :)
One of the great gifts that we got at the Hoyle Christmas :)We then made our way to our next destination--my parent's house. We got some bad news earlier in the day. My sister and brother-in-law both had strep throat and weren't able to make it, but John was able to bring the kids down, so at least we were able to see them. This put a bit of a wrench in our name plans, because there wasn't an opportunity for the entire family to be together. We decided to tell my parents first, and they really liked the name, which was a relief. People then started trickling in and we opened gifts, and ate dinner. We got a lot of great gifts. Some of the highlights were a few giftcards, diapers, and some great soap that my Aunt makes. Finn made out like a bandit at the Norris household too (he is already spoiled :)) he got some new books (ones that his mommy really wanted), a snowsuit to come home in, a Cubs hoodie, and even a few toys. He is a very lucky boy to be so loved. After dinner we went home to pick up Ella (some people had begun to leave), and brought her back so she could play with Phia and Emma. We were able to sit and talk and drink with my mom, dad, Ashley and Laura for a few hours. It was really, REALLY fun and it was nice to be able to sit and talk and joke around.
Little peanut Addy, full of Christmas cheer :)Friday, December 24, 2010
What's in a Name?
I feel like I am burgeoning on becoming somewhat of a pregnancy expert (I'm being sarcastic, so no one be offended). I have read a few books, taken a few classes, and made it OVER 8 1/2 months through this pregnancy. So, I've decided to share this knowledge with the masses of people that read this blog, and I have a word of advice.
Do NOT tell anyone your baby name. At all. Let me be clear...no one. Not your best friend, not your dog, not your grandma, not your sister, not your brother, not your mom. Don't do it. I know, from experience, that this is a bad idea.
Further advice--do not tell anyone that you have a name at all. Use this line, "we just haven't decided yet." And then rub your tummy and smile all cute and serene-like. I promise it works, and it works better than saying, "Yes we have a name, but we're not telling it yet," which, no matter how true it is, makes you sound like a bitch.
How do I know this? From experience that is how.
I have a sister, and we are really close, we have been our whole lives. I wanted a baby sister from the time I was basically born. My brother was really mean to me growing up, and all I wanted was a sister that I could be friends with, and take places, and be nice to. I think I did a pretty good job. So, my sister was the first person that I told that we were pregnant (I couldn't help it--I had to tell someone). My sister was also the first person that I told the elusive name to. This was a mistake. Now, don't get me wrong, she didn't tell anyone that we were pregnant, and she hasn't told anyone (that we really didn't want to know yet) the name. BUT, the fact that we told Ashley has caused quite a bit of mayhem in the Norris/Hoyle household.
First, when my other siblings found out that she knew--they were pissed. I mean really pissed. I have heard, "Why did you tell Ashley and no one else" about 50 times. This was NOT my intention at all. I just had to tell someone (mistake #1), and she seemed like a logical choice. My intention was not to hurt anyone's feelings, or make any of my siblings feel like I like them LESS than Ashley. It's not the case, and it was not intentional. So, if I hurt ANYONE'S feelings that reads this blog--I wholeheartedly apologize. I really do. Read the above and know that I will tell NO ONE next time.
Second, I then told people that we were going to "reveal" the name at Christmas. This was a GIANT, HUGE, COLOSSAL mistake. Now, (1) we've made this a way bigger deal than we ever intended to do and (2) people keep ever-loving asking us about it. At the Hoyle family Christmas, I must have been asked 20 times about the name--and honestly, there are some people I just don't want to know. I want to tell our immediate families, and that's it. I don't want to deal with grandparents (especially my grandpa, who will have some stupid comment about it and I might punch him in the face), or aunts and uncles. I really just don't want the judgement, at all. It just makes the Christmas more stressful because I have to worry about what people will say about the name, and if they will talk about it.
Let me be clear--I love the name. I absolutely adore it, I've been calling him this name for months. BUT, I just don't want people's facial expressions, mannerisms, and various comments to ruin this for us.
I wish we could renege on this agreement and just not tell anyone until he was born, that way he HAS the name and they will shut their mouths. BUT, we cannot because people are already mad about Ashley knowing.
So, I just want all of you expectant mothers out there and people who will be expecting at some point. I am begging you to take this advice, especially if you have a "unique" name that people may be rude about.
I am excited to be able to refer to him by his name to family, but I really hope that this works out. There are several individuals that I could see making an issue out of this, and so I am praying for a "Christmas miracle" and that everyone likes the name (or I'll settle for JUST SAYS that they like it...because that is it-regardless).
In case you haven't been able to tell, I'm a bit nervous about telling people the name.
Do NOT tell anyone your baby name. At all. Let me be clear...no one. Not your best friend, not your dog, not your grandma, not your sister, not your brother, not your mom. Don't do it. I know, from experience, that this is a bad idea.
Further advice--do not tell anyone that you have a name at all. Use this line, "we just haven't decided yet." And then rub your tummy and smile all cute and serene-like. I promise it works, and it works better than saying, "Yes we have a name, but we're not telling it yet," which, no matter how true it is, makes you sound like a bitch.
How do I know this? From experience that is how.
I have a sister, and we are really close, we have been our whole lives. I wanted a baby sister from the time I was basically born. My brother was really mean to me growing up, and all I wanted was a sister that I could be friends with, and take places, and be nice to. I think I did a pretty good job. So, my sister was the first person that I told that we were pregnant (I couldn't help it--I had to tell someone). My sister was also the first person that I told the elusive name to. This was a mistake. Now, don't get me wrong, she didn't tell anyone that we were pregnant, and she hasn't told anyone (that we really didn't want to know yet) the name. BUT, the fact that we told Ashley has caused quite a bit of mayhem in the Norris/Hoyle household.
First, when my other siblings found out that she knew--they were pissed. I mean really pissed. I have heard, "Why did you tell Ashley and no one else" about 50 times. This was NOT my intention at all. I just had to tell someone (mistake #1), and she seemed like a logical choice. My intention was not to hurt anyone's feelings, or make any of my siblings feel like I like them LESS than Ashley. It's not the case, and it was not intentional. So, if I hurt ANYONE'S feelings that reads this blog--I wholeheartedly apologize. I really do. Read the above and know that I will tell NO ONE next time.
Second, I then told people that we were going to "reveal" the name at Christmas. This was a GIANT, HUGE, COLOSSAL mistake. Now, (1) we've made this a way bigger deal than we ever intended to do and (2) people keep ever-loving asking us about it. At the Hoyle family Christmas, I must have been asked 20 times about the name--and honestly, there are some people I just don't want to know. I want to tell our immediate families, and that's it. I don't want to deal with grandparents (especially my grandpa, who will have some stupid comment about it and I might punch him in the face), or aunts and uncles. I really just don't want the judgement, at all. It just makes the Christmas more stressful because I have to worry about what people will say about the name, and if they will talk about it.
Let me be clear--I love the name. I absolutely adore it, I've been calling him this name for months. BUT, I just don't want people's facial expressions, mannerisms, and various comments to ruin this for us.
I wish we could renege on this agreement and just not tell anyone until he was born, that way he HAS the name and they will shut their mouths. BUT, we cannot because people are already mad about Ashley knowing.
So, I just want all of you expectant mothers out there and people who will be expecting at some point. I am begging you to take this advice, especially if you have a "unique" name that people may be rude about.
I am excited to be able to refer to him by his name to family, but I really hope that this works out. There are several individuals that I could see making an issue out of this, and so I am praying for a "Christmas miracle" and that everyone likes the name (or I'll settle for JUST SAYS that they like it...because that is it-regardless).
In case you haven't been able to tell, I'm a bit nervous about telling people the name.
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Our wild man
Today we are officially 34 weeks, or 8 1/2 months pregnant, which is pretty awesome because that means that we are so very close to our due date. Only 3 weeks until we are considered "full term" which is so awesome. We are pretty much ready for the little man! :)
So, today we went to the doctor and we saw one of the other midwives today. She was measuring and doing her thing and she felt around to see where our little man was. Good news--he is head down (BONUS!). She then kept going on and on about how much he was moving. She was like "Whoa" and then she tried to find out where he was and he just kept kicking and moving and she was like "JESUS! That munchkin is really moving" (or something to that effect). And then just kept going on and on about how much he was moving, how we wouldn't have to worry too much about fetal movement or keeping fetal kick counts because she felt him move about 10 times in 30 seconds (for fetal kick counts you're supposed to have at least 10 kicks/strong movements every 2-3 hours). It was just cute and funny and we can't wait to meet our little wild man :)
I know this blog is kind of lame, but we are watching a movie that I am kind of into, so I'm not thinking as clearly as I should.
So, today we went to the doctor and we saw one of the other midwives today. She was measuring and doing her thing and she felt around to see where our little man was. Good news--he is head down (BONUS!). She then kept going on and on about how much he was moving. She was like "Whoa" and then she tried to find out where he was and he just kept kicking and moving and she was like "JESUS! That munchkin is really moving" (or something to that effect). And then just kept going on and on about how much he was moving, how we wouldn't have to worry too much about fetal movement or keeping fetal kick counts because she felt him move about 10 times in 30 seconds (for fetal kick counts you're supposed to have at least 10 kicks/strong movements every 2-3 hours). It was just cute and funny and we can't wait to meet our little wild man :)
I know this blog is kind of lame, but we are watching a movie that I am kind of into, so I'm not thinking as clearly as I should.
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Addendum to earlier post...
Today was a terrible day, but then I went to lunch.My department threw me a baby shower, my department (who have only known me for a semester) put together an entire luncheon, complete with a gift. Isn't that the sweetest thing on the planet? They each brought in a book for our little man, and they got us the co-sleeper off of our registry too!
I could have cried it was so nice. I love it when bad days turn into good days.
I think I'll go to Australia
The last two days have been really bad--No good, horrible, terrible, really bad days.
Yesterday started well enough, I missed a department meeting because I had no recollection that it was yesterday. Then, after school, I stayed after in not one, but two rooms (room #1-photography for students to work on their final projects, room #2-newspaper to finish up the latest edition of The Crier). It was agonizing. One day I will count how many times people say "Mrs. Hoyle" in a day. Sometimes, especially on days when I am excrutiatingly tired it really grates on my nerves. Around 5, I call Randy and he had a terrible day too, so he talks about it for...a while. Finally, I get to tell him the good news that I had (my retainer would b free because of a dentist mistake and I had found out that a photographer had offered us a free newborn session), well Randy really overreacted to this news and got angry about it, which turned into a huge fight because both of us were (1) overtired (2) had terrible days and (3) weren't listening to each other.
I stayed at school for another 2 hours...and then went home.
Where the fight continued until bedtime.
Night #2 of almost no sleep. I cannot function on no sleep (Becky, are you aware that you are about to have a newborn? yes I am, and I'm not sure how I'm going to deal with the lack of sleep then either). I spent last night tossing, turning, feeling little man kick me over and over (I still love it, even at 2 am), moving from couch, to bed, to guest bed, to couch to try to get comfortable. Ella gets upset about this too, because she likes to come with me where I sleep (Randy doesn't let her cuddle as close to him, and he moves around too much). Through all the moving, going to the bathroom 4 times, etc. etc. I also had crazy dreams, crazy dreams about breastfeeding. I don't really want to talk about them.
Today, woke up, on the couch with Randy telling me it's almost 6:30. That is BAD. So, I got up showered, got ready and out the door. I am really, really crabby. I have already lost it with a few students today. They deserved it--don't you worry, but I am not someone who loses it very often (at school at least). Whatever.
The worst part? I don't get to leave after school. It's a Crier week, so I will be here...until probably 8 or 9 p.m. tonight. HOW MUCH DOES THAT SUCK?
Here's the silver lining, this week, the next three days, are all that stands between me and Christmas break. I absolutely love Christmas break. I love everything about it--snow, lights, presents, food, and most of all--being at home with Randy and Ella (and this year--baby Hoyle), it is awesome. PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE let the next three days go quickly, and let me get some sleep tonight!?
Yesterday started well enough, I missed a department meeting because I had no recollection that it was yesterday. Then, after school, I stayed after in not one, but two rooms (room #1-photography for students to work on their final projects, room #2-newspaper to finish up the latest edition of The Crier). It was agonizing. One day I will count how many times people say "Mrs. Hoyle" in a day. Sometimes, especially on days when I am excrutiatingly tired it really grates on my nerves. Around 5, I call Randy and he had a terrible day too, so he talks about it for...a while. Finally, I get to tell him the good news that I had (my retainer would b free because of a dentist mistake and I had found out that a photographer had offered us a free newborn session), well Randy really overreacted to this news and got angry about it, which turned into a huge fight because both of us were (1) overtired (2) had terrible days and (3) weren't listening to each other.
I stayed at school for another 2 hours...and then went home.
Where the fight continued until bedtime.
Night #2 of almost no sleep. I cannot function on no sleep (Becky, are you aware that you are about to have a newborn? yes I am, and I'm not sure how I'm going to deal with the lack of sleep then either). I spent last night tossing, turning, feeling little man kick me over and over (I still love it, even at 2 am), moving from couch, to bed, to guest bed, to couch to try to get comfortable. Ella gets upset about this too, because she likes to come with me where I sleep (Randy doesn't let her cuddle as close to him, and he moves around too much). Through all the moving, going to the bathroom 4 times, etc. etc. I also had crazy dreams, crazy dreams about breastfeeding. I don't really want to talk about them.
Today, woke up, on the couch with Randy telling me it's almost 6:30. That is BAD. So, I got up showered, got ready and out the door. I am really, really crabby. I have already lost it with a few students today. They deserved it--don't you worry, but I am not someone who loses it very often (at school at least). Whatever.
The worst part? I don't get to leave after school. It's a Crier week, so I will be here...until probably 8 or 9 p.m. tonight. HOW MUCH DOES THAT SUCK?
Here's the silver lining, this week, the next three days, are all that stands between me and Christmas break. I absolutely love Christmas break. I love everything about it--snow, lights, presents, food, and most of all--being at home with Randy and Ella (and this year--baby Hoyle), it is awesome. PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE let the next three days go quickly, and let me get some sleep tonight!?
Sunday, December 12, 2010
What a crazy day...
My day today started out pretty normally, woke up, let Ella out, fed her, went back to bed. Spent a few minutes snuggling with my favorite puggle and my favorite person, and then got up. Randy and I got ready and made our way to the gas station, Target and finally to Addison's baptism. The weather wasn't so terrible, but it looked like it was going to. After the baptism, we came out of church and the weather was CRAZY. Blowing snow, almost white-out conditions, the worst I have seen in a long time. It made me think about a lot of things.
First, it made me happy that I didn't have to drive to Chesterton every day. One of the scariest experiences of my entire life (maybe even possibly the #1 scariest experience of my life) was driving home last year in a snowstorm from Chesterton. It was completely white-out and I was absolutely terrified, crying and everything. I made it, but I never forced myself to drive anywhere again, I took off 3 days after that because I wasn't sure how the weather was going to be.
Second, it made me think about our little man (because most things do)--I hope he loves the snow. Randy and I love snow and can't wait to take him sledding, snowboarding, ice skating and a bunch of other things. Addison is such a cutie, and it's great to see her. There were also two little boys there--Max and Brayden and both were pretty adorable. It makes it more and more difficult to wait for our little guy, because I can't wait to meet him.
Third, it made me think about how happy I am with my life at the moment. It's weird, because on a day-to-day basis, I whine and complain as much as I ever did. I am tired, my back hurts, my feet hurt, yadayadayada and it's all true. I get tired of work. I get sick of Randy. I get sick of my family sometimes. BUT, I am so happy right now. Sitting in my living room, looking at our Christmas tree, fire roaring, snow blowing outside, (knowing all my family made it home safe and sound) Ella and Randy playing on the floor and Baby Hoyle kicking me. It's perfect. I can't imagine anything better.
Only 5 days until Christmas break and possibly my favorite two weeks of the entire year. Christmas is magical, it always is.
12.18--Hoyle family Christmas :)
12.19--Nothing...isn't that fabulous!?
12.20--Spending the entire day cleaning the house, and dinner with great friends
12.21--Doctor's appointment, car seat inspection and finishing cleaning
12.22--Randy is off of work!! And we are going to see It's a Wonderful Life with Marnie and Jay! :)
12.23--Ashley's birthday and downtown with Renee, Ashley and Ava to go to the American Girl Store
12.24 Christmas Eve :)
12.25 Christmas Day! :) :) :)
12.26 Blissfully...nothing
12.27 Randy and I's anniversary
12.28-1-1.11 Hanging out with Randy and Ella and enjoying a week off of life.
Love it. Gotta get through this ONE MORE WEEK! :)
First, it made me happy that I didn't have to drive to Chesterton every day. One of the scariest experiences of my entire life (maybe even possibly the #1 scariest experience of my life) was driving home last year in a snowstorm from Chesterton. It was completely white-out and I was absolutely terrified, crying and everything. I made it, but I never forced myself to drive anywhere again, I took off 3 days after that because I wasn't sure how the weather was going to be.
Second, it made me think about our little man (because most things do)--I hope he loves the snow. Randy and I love snow and can't wait to take him sledding, snowboarding, ice skating and a bunch of other things. Addison is such a cutie, and it's great to see her. There were also two little boys there--Max and Brayden and both were pretty adorable. It makes it more and more difficult to wait for our little guy, because I can't wait to meet him.
Third, it made me think about how happy I am with my life at the moment. It's weird, because on a day-to-day basis, I whine and complain as much as I ever did. I am tired, my back hurts, my feet hurt, yadayadayada and it's all true. I get tired of work. I get sick of Randy. I get sick of my family sometimes. BUT, I am so happy right now. Sitting in my living room, looking at our Christmas tree, fire roaring, snow blowing outside, (knowing all my family made it home safe and sound) Ella and Randy playing on the floor and Baby Hoyle kicking me. It's perfect. I can't imagine anything better.
Only 5 days until Christmas break and possibly my favorite two weeks of the entire year. Christmas is magical, it always is.
12.18--Hoyle family Christmas :)
12.19--Nothing...isn't that fabulous!?
12.20--Spending the entire day cleaning the house, and dinner with great friends
12.21--Doctor's appointment, car seat inspection and finishing cleaning
12.22--Randy is off of work!! And we are going to see It's a Wonderful Life with Marnie and Jay! :)
12.23--Ashley's birthday and downtown with Renee, Ashley and Ava to go to the American Girl Store
12.24 Christmas Eve :)
12.25 Christmas Day! :) :) :)
12.26 Blissfully...nothing
12.27 Randy and I's anniversary
12.28-1-1.11 Hanging out with Randy and Ella and enjoying a week off of life.
Love it. Gotta get through this ONE MORE WEEK! :)
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Last childbirth class... :)
Yesterday was our last childbirth class. This was a bittersweet moment for me. Childbirth class was rough, mostly because it threw the realities of what was happening right in front of my face. It means that my little one is getting closer and closer, but it also means that I will actually have to go through labor and delivery in the near future.
Here's the shocking part--looking back, I am glad that we went to childbirth class. I really am. Last night, one of the teachers asked "Who feels better than they did when they came to the first class?" and my hand shot up. Randy gave me a sideways glance and whispered, "Really?" And I said (slightly surprised myself) "Yes."
It's true--I am still scared absolutely shitless of what is going to happen in that room. BUT, I was made to do this--literally. This is what I was created to do, to birth children. It still consistently amazing me what my body, which I spent a lot of my time pre-baby cursing for having too fat, too short legs, too small boobs (I miss you guys!), and 350 other things that weren't "right" about me. But, who knew that my body could do everything that it has already done. In 8 months it took a part of me and a part of Randy and made it into a 4(ish) pound little baby boy. How amazing is that? My body is doing about 100 things right now to get ready for this baby and I don't even know it. For example, we talked about breastfeeding in class yesterday and did you know that when a baby is placed skin-to-skin with it's mother after birth one breast can change temperature to regulate the temperature of the baby? That's completely amazing. Also, my body not only produces this child, but it also provides all the nourishment he needs for potentially the first year of his life.
There are a few things that my "teacher" has said throughout class that have been really helpful to me...
- Your body knows what to do; if you let it.
- She firmly believes that you grow what you can birth.
- You were meant to do this--your body was made to do this.
- Labor is cool (though painful); placentas are cool; breastfeeding is cool. It is all difficult and challenging and can have ups and downs, but it's all possible.
That's kind of empowering isn't it?
Here's the shocking part--looking back, I am glad that we went to childbirth class. I really am. Last night, one of the teachers asked "Who feels better than they did when they came to the first class?" and my hand shot up. Randy gave me a sideways glance and whispered, "Really?" And I said (slightly surprised myself) "Yes."
It's true--I am still scared absolutely shitless of what is going to happen in that room. BUT, I was made to do this--literally. This is what I was created to do, to birth children. It still consistently amazing me what my body, which I spent a lot of my time pre-baby cursing for having too fat, too short legs, too small boobs (I miss you guys!), and 350 other things that weren't "right" about me. But, who knew that my body could do everything that it has already done. In 8 months it took a part of me and a part of Randy and made it into a 4(ish) pound little baby boy. How amazing is that? My body is doing about 100 things right now to get ready for this baby and I don't even know it. For example, we talked about breastfeeding in class yesterday and did you know that when a baby is placed skin-to-skin with it's mother after birth one breast can change temperature to regulate the temperature of the baby? That's completely amazing. Also, my body not only produces this child, but it also provides all the nourishment he needs for potentially the first year of his life.
There are a few things that my "teacher" has said throughout class that have been really helpful to me...
- Your body knows what to do; if you let it.
- She firmly believes that you grow what you can birth.
- You were meant to do this--your body was made to do this.
- Labor is cool (though painful); placentas are cool; breastfeeding is cool. It is all difficult and challenging and can have ups and downs, but it's all possible.
That's kind of empowering isn't it?
Sunday, December 5, 2010
Baby Hoyle's room is done
Randy and I spent all day today organizing and going through all of our little one's new stuff. He is quite the lucky little man. We were able to officially get all of his things pretty much put away, and only need a few things to complete his repertoire. The above picture is of his bookshelf and his closet. We have all of his clothes in order from newborn- 12 months, his books put away (according to size) and most of his little baby toys ready-to-go. 
This is the opposite wall of his room. It is beautiful, I know. Randy picked up his mattress yesterday and put all the bedding in himself. He also put together our awesome glider, with little man's first (giant) teddy bear hanging out there right now. His changing table is full of all his goodies (and organized to boot!). 
This is the view from his doorway. We are absolutely in love with this room. I could spend all my time here dreaming about my little boy.We are almost ready for you little guy--but don't hurry just for us, just come out whenever you are ready and fully developed, and we will be ready for you!
Saturday, December 4, 2010
Snow & such (3 posts in one day)
How beautiful! :) I love the snow. This is baby Hoyle's first unofficial snow, and we are pretty excited about it. There are so many things that we can't wait to do with our little guy, but some of the things that we are the most excited about center around snow. We can't wait to take him sledding (Randy is even thinking about making him a sled), and building a snowman, and maybe more than anything else...teaching him to snowboard. We just can't wait. So, today felt exceptionally exciting when we woke up to the first real snow of the season! :) LOVE IT!
We are working on getting his room all set to go and everything that we need for him over the next few weeks, and we are close to doing just that :) Very excited!
Okay--three posts is enough for one day! :) I had a lot to say this morning.
P.S. The number one thing I DO NOT want to do is shoot a wedding today :( Seriously who gets married in December (other than me! LoL)
The #1 question I get asked, "Are you having twins?"
NO I AM NOT!
And guess what? I do not think it's cute when you ask me about it either. I am not flattered, I am not amused, and you are definitely not the first person to ever ask me that.
Seriously, yesterday about 4 different people...at school asked me variations of this question...
- "Are you sure there is only one baby in there?"
- "I can't believe you're not having twins."
- "You look just like me when I was pregnant with my twins."
- "Are you having twins?"
It's so hilarious. Listen people--I went to the doctor yesterday, and she said that I should not be concerned that I am measuring 1 cm bigger than normal--she said I could have a larger amount of fluid, etc. She said nothing about having a giant baby, or anything like that. But, I'm more concerned about it than any of you are--I can promise you that.
So, my question is...why do people think this is okay to say? I would never say to you "Wow, you are not even pregnant, but WOW you look really fat." Why is it okay when you're pregnant to make people feel like crap? I am not a fan. And believe me, I know I look huge, I see myself every day. I do not need you to remind me.
I also thoroughly enjoy the random people in stores, etc. that say to me "When are you due?" and I say February 1st and they look stunned and just say "oh!" with a surprised look on their face. Again, maybe you just shouldn't ask. One time I tried to lie, I said "January" and then the woman kept asking "When in January?" And I am a terrible liar, so then I just looked like an idiot who didn't know when her baby was due.
Whatever--I know I'm big, but I hope my little guy is healthy and happy :) and at least I know now how annoying it is to say that to people, so I will never say it to anyone (I don't know if I ever said it before...but I probably did, because I was an idiot).
I just wanted to share.
And guess what? I do not think it's cute when you ask me about it either. I am not flattered, I am not amused, and you are definitely not the first person to ever ask me that.
Seriously, yesterday about 4 different people...at school asked me variations of this question...
- "Are you sure there is only one baby in there?"
- "I can't believe you're not having twins."
- "You look just like me when I was pregnant with my twins."
- "Are you having twins?"
It's so hilarious. Listen people--I went to the doctor yesterday, and she said that I should not be concerned that I am measuring 1 cm bigger than normal--she said I could have a larger amount of fluid, etc. She said nothing about having a giant baby, or anything like that. But, I'm more concerned about it than any of you are--I can promise you that.
So, my question is...why do people think this is okay to say? I would never say to you "Wow, you are not even pregnant, but WOW you look really fat." Why is it okay when you're pregnant to make people feel like crap? I am not a fan. And believe me, I know I look huge, I see myself every day. I do not need you to remind me.
I also thoroughly enjoy the random people in stores, etc. that say to me "When are you due?" and I say February 1st and they look stunned and just say "oh!" with a surprised look on their face. Again, maybe you just shouldn't ask. One time I tried to lie, I said "January" and then the woman kept asking "When in January?" And I am a terrible liar, so then I just looked like an idiot who didn't know when her baby was due.
Whatever--I know I'm big, but I hope my little guy is healthy and happy :) and at least I know now how annoying it is to say that to people, so I will never say it to anyone (I don't know if I ever said it before...but I probably did, because I was an idiot).
I just wanted to share.
Our Baby Shower :)
Us with our awesome cake! :) It said "Randy and Becky Lasso Stork" an homage to our favorite movie of all time--It's a Wonderful Life (because it's like our life!). I was so excited about it!
The lorax table--LOVE IT!
The awesome favors :) And the two games that we played--one was a fill-in about nursery rhymes, and the other was a word game where it used synonyms to figure out the names of children's books (I'm just saying--I got 100% on this game). They were both awesome!
The Harry Potter table! :) Loved it sooo much and won the pot in the middle (fair and square!).Okay-so I am really behind on blogging, but last weekend was our baby shower. It was AWESOME. I have been really out of the loop about it, because all my sneaky sisters wouldn't tell me anything. However, it was so exciting and fun to see how beautiful everything was.
The theme was...BOOKS! :) I really hope that our little guy loves to read, and I will work my hardest to make sure that books surround him his entire life. All the centerpieces were different pots with flowers in them decorated like my favorite childrens' books. Then, there were bookmarks and notepads as favors. All of the people at the shower even brought a book, instead of a card, to share with the little one. It was so awesome :) And, my dad made us a bookshelf to put all of his books, which is almost full after the shower :)
It was so nice to see so many of our friends/family together in one place, and honestly made us feel incredibly blessed. All of our sisters and both of our moms did an awesome job putting the shower together. It was so beautiful, and so very, very US.
While, opening the presents is always such a stressful event, we got through it and got a ton of stuff that we need! :) We were also able to return a few things and are almost completely done getting the things we need for Baby Hoyle (by the way--I can't WAIT to reveal his name, because it's so difficult for me to keep from putting it on here because it's what I call him ALL THE TIME!). We have a very short list of things that we still need, and are waiting to get the last few things to see if we get any of them for Christmas :) I sent a list to Ashley just in case anyone had some last-minute shopping to do.
I just can't believe that in less than 2 months our little guy will be here (hopefully) and we hope and pray that he will be happy and healthy. We can't wait to meet you little guy--the shower really showed how much you will be surrounded with love :)
Monday, November 29, 2010
Belly Pictures...almost 31 weeks
Okay guys--short post today. Just wanted to update pictures of the belly. This is literally 1.5 days before the mysterious stretch marks appeared. This is PROOF! However, my baby is going to be gigantic, I think it's karma for telling Jenn that her baby was going to be gigantic (he was--by the way!).
Sunday, November 28, 2010
The Story of the Mysterious APPEARING stretch marks
Let me tell you a little story...
Once upon a time, there was a pregnant woman. Thus far she had had a relatively smooth pregnancy. Yes, there were bumps in the road (she learned about tearing, watched her first birth, almost passed out a few times, and was very tired); however, she felt pretty good most days and was very lucky. She had a great husband, a little boy on the way, a great puggle and many other blessings. One of the blessings that had been bestowed upon her was that she didn't have any stretch marks. She thought this was pretty good for being seven and a half months pregnant. She even thought, on more than one occasion, that maybe she wouldn't have stretch marks. Looking back, this was a silly thought because she is (obviously) having a giant baby.
Well, one day, let's call it yesterday, she was changing her shirt to get ready for bed. There were the stretch marks--not one, not two, but approximately 1 million stretch marks--OUT OF NOWHERE! She is not kidding about this. Her husband took a new "belly" picture on Thursday and NONE of these stretch marks were anywhere to be found. What the HECK??????
She was very sad, and didn't feel like such a lucky girl anymore.
However, she then thought about her little boy and how he would be worth all of the trouble in the end.
The End.
P.S. This is a completely true story. I think that it is my responsibility to share this with travesty with all of you.
Once upon a time, there was a pregnant woman. Thus far she had had a relatively smooth pregnancy. Yes, there were bumps in the road (she learned about tearing, watched her first birth, almost passed out a few times, and was very tired); however, she felt pretty good most days and was very lucky. She had a great husband, a little boy on the way, a great puggle and many other blessings. One of the blessings that had been bestowed upon her was that she didn't have any stretch marks. She thought this was pretty good for being seven and a half months pregnant. She even thought, on more than one occasion, that maybe she wouldn't have stretch marks. Looking back, this was a silly thought because she is (obviously) having a giant baby.
Well, one day, let's call it yesterday, she was changing her shirt to get ready for bed. There were the stretch marks--not one, not two, but approximately 1 million stretch marks--OUT OF NOWHERE! She is not kidding about this. Her husband took a new "belly" picture on Thursday and NONE of these stretch marks were anywhere to be found. What the HECK??????
She was very sad, and didn't feel like such a lucky girl anymore.
However, she then thought about her little boy and how he would be worth all of the trouble in the end.
The End.
P.S. This is a completely true story. I think that it is my responsibility to share this with travesty with all of you.
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Three Things: Thanksgiving, tearing and colds
There's a lot that has been happening lately, and no time to write about it. But, today, on Thanksgiving Eve, I am giving a test and showing a movie (I'm a genius, I know). This will allow me to grade SOME of the insanity, while the rest will stay here at school, because I guarantee I won't touch it over this break. So this post will center around three things: colds, tearing and Thanksgiving.
Colds: I have been sick for over a week. I have this terrible, dry cough that will not go away and a stuffy head. The weekend was awful, I felt absolutely terrible, and--one of the perks of pregnancy is that you cannot take ANYTHING while you are pregnant. The only cough drops I can even have (which I am thankful that I can have any of them) are Luden's cough drops, which are honestly more like candy than cough drops. So, I wake up in the morning, and several times a night hacking to the point of almost throwing up. This, on top of sinus pressure, congestion, not being able to sleep and about 50 other things, has made the last week truly awful. I am thankful that it is slowly getting better, and I don't feel awful 100% of the time anymore, but I really do wish this thing would go away. If any of you remember post-preggo, I was the cold medicine queen. If I was sick, I would load up on Mucinex, Afrin (my personal favorite), Dayquil, Nyquil, and anything else the drug store would let me have. It was awesome, and I will never take any of those medications for granted again--especially Nyquil--I really love me some Nyquil. However, living in the 1850s and taking absolutely no medicine for this cold has given me some perspective, if nothing else.
Tearing: This is the least pleasant of my topics (and reading the above topic--it should frighten you that the cold is more cheerful than this). Yesterday, we went to childbirth class #4, don't worry--it doesn't get any less terrifying each week--just as bad as the first week. This week I didn't cry when we left, so I guess that is a good thing. So, good things first--we got to take a tour of the birthing ward, which was great. We got to see what the rooms look like, and what we should expect when the little man enters the world. The tour was cool, and I really like the hospital, for future expectant moms (and me, whenever and IFever I decide to "pop out" number 2)--there is going to be a NICU at St. Anthony's in the future, which is great. Anyways, I digress--the first thing that we talked about was tearing. Yes, I said tearing...not tearing up paper, or tearing your pants because your butt/stomach has gotten too gigantic. Tearing...in your nether-regions.
I'm going to let you picture that miracle for a moment.
Right? That's disgusting. That's, like, possibly the most horrible thing I've ever heard. TEARING? They said that a lot of times you don't feel it, because there is already so much pressure happening, but still. C'mon man. Why does that happen? I have nothing else to say about it--though I can't promise you that I will discuss it afterwards. Randy asked me last night "What was birth like for your mom?" and I said..."I don't know--we don't ever talk about it." That's right people--my mother (who has her moments) has never once been the person to tell me how awful childbirth is. I have never heard her stories about being in labor for 450 hours, or tearing, or ripping or anything. Mom--if you ever read this--I appreciate this. Now, don't get me wrong, I sometimes have a sick desire to hear about these things, it's because I'm a masochist. Jenn--I know I ask you about it all the time, and there are others I have asked too, because there are some things I want to know, but still...strangers on the street coming up to me and telling me their disgusting childbirth stories, NO PLEASE!! I don't want to know (1) if you tore (2) that you couldn't sit down for 3 weeks (3) that you pushed for 4 hours straight and needed a C-section or (4) that you were in labor for 54 hours. You do not receive a prize for the longest labor, or the most disgusting story. Okay...I never want to think about tearing again, so I don't know that I will ever talk about it again...but, those of you that are preggo for the first time--be ready for that class.
Two things from class that have actually helped me are:
1. We grow what we can birth--she thinks that whatever we can grow in our bellies, our bodies are able to birth, which really makes me happy.
2. We are MADE to do this. Our bodies were created to do this. While, I know that my son is "fearfully and wonderfully made" I don't often give myself this same credit--I am too, and I will be able to do this, one way or another.
Thanksgiving-I am pretty excited about Thanksgiving. I get excited about any break, but I feel like Thanksgiving break is special, especially this year. I have so much to be thankful for this year, it's kind of ridiculous. Sometimes I'm not sure how I got so lucky (aside from that whole tearing thing). Thanksgiving this year is going to be great--I will literally get to see my entire family, and it is going to be so great :) First, we will go to my parents, where I will see Ashley, her french sister Stephanie, my grandpa, my Aunts and Uncles, and maybe Ryan, Sarah and Addison. We will be able to stay for a short time, because Thanksgiving is designated a Hoyle-holiday :) Then, we will head to the Hoyle's to see Randy's parents, Bett and Mike and Courtney (and Lillian? I'm not sure). It's just so nice to be able to see everyone, and eat and talk, and not have to stress about it (though I'm sure the two moms may feel stressed over that whole cooking thing!). So, on top of good family and good food, I have so many things to be thankful for. And, because honestly I keep this blog for myself more than anyone else--I will write them down...
- I am thankful for Randy. He is such an awesome person and husband to me. He always gets me whatever I want/need and tries so hard to make everything wonderful for me, for the little nudger and for Ella.
- I am so incredibly thankful for our little boy. I am thankful that we have had a healthy and relatively happy pregnancy so far and that he is healthy. I pray that he continues to be healthy and that we have a healthy delivery (notice that I didn't say quick--though I'd like that too...mostly I just want healthy). There are simply not enough words to express how thankful I am for him.
- I am so thankful for our house and our two working cars. Our house has been a constant source of sadness/anger over the past two years, and Randy has worked his ass of to finish it. I am happy to report that I love it, and I finally feel at home, which is great. Also, last year we had so much car trouble, and it was really stressful both financially and emotionally. I am so happy that both of our cars are in working order, and we are so lucky that they are.
- My dog. I know this is silly to many of you, but I am so thankful that my Ella is here, happy and healthy. I love that dog more than almost anyone on the planet, and she knows it. I am happy that we have a healthy pup, because last year at this time Oliver was very sick and we didn't know how to make him healthy.
- My family/friends-- all of them are there for me when I need them, and I love you all dearly. The support, generosity and so many other things is appreciated more than I can express.
ALSO--our shower is this weekend, which I am SOOOOO excited for! :)
okay, this is way too long, I'm pretty sure no one will read it, and I need to get some grading done! Happy Thanksgiving everyone!
Colds: I have been sick for over a week. I have this terrible, dry cough that will not go away and a stuffy head. The weekend was awful, I felt absolutely terrible, and--one of the perks of pregnancy is that you cannot take ANYTHING while you are pregnant. The only cough drops I can even have (which I am thankful that I can have any of them) are Luden's cough drops, which are honestly more like candy than cough drops. So, I wake up in the morning, and several times a night hacking to the point of almost throwing up. This, on top of sinus pressure, congestion, not being able to sleep and about 50 other things, has made the last week truly awful. I am thankful that it is slowly getting better, and I don't feel awful 100% of the time anymore, but I really do wish this thing would go away. If any of you remember post-preggo, I was the cold medicine queen. If I was sick, I would load up on Mucinex, Afrin (my personal favorite), Dayquil, Nyquil, and anything else the drug store would let me have. It was awesome, and I will never take any of those medications for granted again--especially Nyquil--I really love me some Nyquil. However, living in the 1850s and taking absolutely no medicine for this cold has given me some perspective, if nothing else.
Tearing: This is the least pleasant of my topics (and reading the above topic--it should frighten you that the cold is more cheerful than this). Yesterday, we went to childbirth class #4, don't worry--it doesn't get any less terrifying each week--just as bad as the first week. This week I didn't cry when we left, so I guess that is a good thing. So, good things first--we got to take a tour of the birthing ward, which was great. We got to see what the rooms look like, and what we should expect when the little man enters the world. The tour was cool, and I really like the hospital, for future expectant moms (and me, whenever and IFever I decide to "pop out" number 2)--there is going to be a NICU at St. Anthony's in the future, which is great. Anyways, I digress--the first thing that we talked about was tearing. Yes, I said tearing...not tearing up paper, or tearing your pants because your butt/stomach has gotten too gigantic. Tearing...in your nether-regions.
I'm going to let you picture that miracle for a moment.
Right? That's disgusting. That's, like, possibly the most horrible thing I've ever heard. TEARING? They said that a lot of times you don't feel it, because there is already so much pressure happening, but still. C'mon man. Why does that happen? I have nothing else to say about it--though I can't promise you that I will discuss it afterwards. Randy asked me last night "What was birth like for your mom?" and I said..."I don't know--we don't ever talk about it." That's right people--my mother (who has her moments) has never once been the person to tell me how awful childbirth is. I have never heard her stories about being in labor for 450 hours, or tearing, or ripping or anything. Mom--if you ever read this--I appreciate this. Now, don't get me wrong, I sometimes have a sick desire to hear about these things, it's because I'm a masochist. Jenn--I know I ask you about it all the time, and there are others I have asked too, because there are some things I want to know, but still...strangers on the street coming up to me and telling me their disgusting childbirth stories, NO PLEASE!! I don't want to know (1) if you tore (2) that you couldn't sit down for 3 weeks (3) that you pushed for 4 hours straight and needed a C-section or (4) that you were in labor for 54 hours. You do not receive a prize for the longest labor, or the most disgusting story. Okay...I never want to think about tearing again, so I don't know that I will ever talk about it again...but, those of you that are preggo for the first time--be ready for that class.
Two things from class that have actually helped me are:
1. We grow what we can birth--she thinks that whatever we can grow in our bellies, our bodies are able to birth, which really makes me happy.
2. We are MADE to do this. Our bodies were created to do this. While, I know that my son is "fearfully and wonderfully made" I don't often give myself this same credit--I am too, and I will be able to do this, one way or another.
Thanksgiving-I am pretty excited about Thanksgiving. I get excited about any break, but I feel like Thanksgiving break is special, especially this year. I have so much to be thankful for this year, it's kind of ridiculous. Sometimes I'm not sure how I got so lucky (aside from that whole tearing thing). Thanksgiving this year is going to be great--I will literally get to see my entire family, and it is going to be so great :) First, we will go to my parents, where I will see Ashley, her french sister Stephanie, my grandpa, my Aunts and Uncles, and maybe Ryan, Sarah and Addison. We will be able to stay for a short time, because Thanksgiving is designated a Hoyle-holiday :) Then, we will head to the Hoyle's to see Randy's parents, Bett and Mike and Courtney (and Lillian? I'm not sure). It's just so nice to be able to see everyone, and eat and talk, and not have to stress about it (though I'm sure the two moms may feel stressed over that whole cooking thing!). So, on top of good family and good food, I have so many things to be thankful for. And, because honestly I keep this blog for myself more than anyone else--I will write them down...
- I am thankful for Randy. He is such an awesome person and husband to me. He always gets me whatever I want/need and tries so hard to make everything wonderful for me, for the little nudger and for Ella.
- I am so incredibly thankful for our little boy. I am thankful that we have had a healthy and relatively happy pregnancy so far and that he is healthy. I pray that he continues to be healthy and that we have a healthy delivery (notice that I didn't say quick--though I'd like that too...mostly I just want healthy). There are simply not enough words to express how thankful I am for him.
- I am so thankful for our house and our two working cars. Our house has been a constant source of sadness/anger over the past two years, and Randy has worked his ass of to finish it. I am happy to report that I love it, and I finally feel at home, which is great. Also, last year we had so much car trouble, and it was really stressful both financially and emotionally. I am so happy that both of our cars are in working order, and we are so lucky that they are.
- My dog. I know this is silly to many of you, but I am so thankful that my Ella is here, happy and healthy. I love that dog more than almost anyone on the planet, and she knows it. I am happy that we have a healthy pup, because last year at this time Oliver was very sick and we didn't know how to make him healthy.
- My family/friends-- all of them are there for me when I need them, and I love you all dearly. The support, generosity and so many other things is appreciated more than I can express.
ALSO--our shower is this weekend, which I am SOOOOO excited for! :)
okay, this is way too long, I'm pretty sure no one will read it, and I need to get some grading done! Happy Thanksgiving everyone!
Sunday, November 21, 2010
My little boy :)
So, we finally were able to see our little man. He cooperated relatively well for this ultrasound. We were told that he has chubby cheeks (which you can see), long fingers, and we think that he may officially have "the Norris nose." It was totally awesome, and the absolute only good part of the day yesterday(I was extremely sick, very miserable--terrible cough, cold, sinus pressure, ear pain, just an all-around bad situation). He is so beautiful and perfect and I can't believe that he is that gorgeous just floating around inside me--kicking me a whole lot. The picture above, which is hard to see is his hands and legs all crossed together, he was just chilling out in there.
On the left is his little hand and he is being very pensive!
This is our favorite picture, because it looks like he has a little smile on his face, and his hands are up by his head like they have been in every single ultrasound that we have seen of him. 
Here is one with his hand near his mouth. He is so cute. Randy found a book that we really love and like to read to him a few nights a week (when we are too exhausted for Harry Potter), and it has our new favorite sayings for him in it.
Psalms 139 "You are fearfully and wonderfully made" which is how we feel about him, and this really shows it--how awesome is he?
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Here is a small collection of my favorites from HC Photography (really just the C in HC photography).
Thanks Jenn for coming out to our house to do pictures--they turned out beautifully and we love them! Also--this was a rough day for Randy, he was very sick and even vomited pre-photo shoot. I felt really terrible for him, but he was a trooper, which I really appreciate!
Thanks Jenn for coming out to our house to do pictures--they turned out beautifully and we love them! Also--this was a rough day for Randy, he was very sick and even vomited pre-photo shoot. I felt really terrible for him, but he was a trooper, which I really appreciate!
Monday, November 15, 2010
Kansas City or Home?
I'm not sure which one is more stressful. Let's examine this...
Kansas City--six students, that I am relatively certain that their favorite thing to do is to complain, and to see who can out-complain one another, not knowing where I am going, what I am doing, having to go to sessions for advisers, walk everywhere I go, feel inadequate placed up against other advisers and publications AND be responsible for the well-being of six teenagers, who are responsible, but not necessarily the best decision-makers I have ever met.
Home--school, getting a paper out by Friday (which means staying here all hours of the night Wednesday and Thursday), trying to organize group picture day, figuring out how to either (1) create or (2) teach someone else how to do the course selection guide for Munster High School, on top of that--trying to get out of this school in time to go to one of my best friend's birthday dinners, doing laundry (despite my husband being incredibly wonderful and fabulous--he rarely does laundry),stressing out about holidays, worrying about being where I need to be for everyone on the planet, cleaning the house, going to a doctor's appointment, dentist appointment and childbirth class tomorrow and trying to get enough sleep to grow a human being in my uterus.
What do you think? Because I think that it might be a draw.
In happier news...tomorrow I am not going into work (dentist, doctor, childbirth, maybe eyebrows?, groceries?, laundry?), which always makes life better...except that it's a paper week, so it might make life more awful for the next few days.
Also, only FIVE days until our next 3-D ultrasound. I really hope my little man will let us get a peek at him! :) Can't wait to see his cute face.
Kansas City--six students, that I am relatively certain that their favorite thing to do is to complain, and to see who can out-complain one another, not knowing where I am going, what I am doing, having to go to sessions for advisers, walk everywhere I go, feel inadequate placed up against other advisers and publications AND be responsible for the well-being of six teenagers, who are responsible, but not necessarily the best decision-makers I have ever met.
Home--school, getting a paper out by Friday (which means staying here all hours of the night Wednesday and Thursday), trying to organize group picture day, figuring out how to either (1) create or (2) teach someone else how to do the course selection guide for Munster High School, on top of that--trying to get out of this school in time to go to one of my best friend's birthday dinners, doing laundry (despite my husband being incredibly wonderful and fabulous--he rarely does laundry),stressing out about holidays, worrying about being where I need to be for everyone on the planet, cleaning the house, going to a doctor's appointment, dentist appointment and childbirth class tomorrow and trying to get enough sleep to grow a human being in my uterus.
What do you think? Because I think that it might be a draw.
In happier news...tomorrow I am not going into work (dentist, doctor, childbirth, maybe eyebrows?, groceries?, laundry?), which always makes life better...except that it's a paper week, so it might make life more awful for the next few days.
Also, only FIVE days until our next 3-D ultrasound. I really hope my little man will let us get a peek at him! :) Can't wait to see his cute face.
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Only 10 more days until sanity will be restored...
Today is November 9th, on November 19th I will (hopefully) be sane again. Until then, sanity is absolutely out of the question. This is my schedule for the next 10 days.
- 11.9: School, after school with yearbook, childbirth class (yuck)
- 11.10: School, pack for nationals, freak out about what I could possibly be forgetting for Nationals
- 11.11: Be at school by 5:45, take 6 high school students on a plane to Kansas City--JEA National convention--activities for the day include: Plant tour, opening ceremonies, etc.
-11.12: Day #2 of Nationals--crazy, insane amount of stuff to do, culminating activity will either be student dance OR laser tag. Equally annoying LoL.
-11.13: Day #3 of Nationals--sleep deprived Becky does not equal a happy Becky
-11.14: Day #4 of Nationals--closing ceremonies, fly home with 6 high school students, SLEEP IN MY OWN BED
-11.15: School...somehow get through this day :( Have nothing planned yet, have no motivation to worry about this yet. Did I mention it's a Crier week? So I have no idea when I will leave on this day--but, it will not be pleasant. I am supposed to go to dinner with Betty, Beth, Chrisanne and Rachel...and I REALLY hope that I get to.
-11.16: Doctor's appointment @ 8:00 am, dentist appointment @ 12:15, Childbirth class @ 7:00, how's that for a "day off"
11.17: School, Crier Wednesday---will not be home before 10 P.M.
11.18: School, Crier Thursday--will not be home before 11 P.M
11.19: School...and then WEEKEND! Thank goodness.
At least the weekend of November 20th will be a fun one...3D ultrasound that we are desperately hoping baby Hoyle cooperates with us, Joyce's birthday party and pictures of Addy (no, I will not be getting paid...my time is not worth anyone in my family's money apparently--I have a legitimate business to everyone except family members...bitter? yes.)
Phew. I don't know why, but I feel a little bit better after just writing it all down. I can do this...right?
After this insanity, only one more paper between me and Christmas break :) Love Christmas...can't wait to spend almost two entire weeks with Randy and ASHLEY is coming home! :)
- 11.9: School, after school with yearbook, childbirth class (yuck)
- 11.10: School, pack for nationals, freak out about what I could possibly be forgetting for Nationals
- 11.11: Be at school by 5:45, take 6 high school students on a plane to Kansas City--JEA National convention--activities for the day include: Plant tour, opening ceremonies, etc.
-11.12: Day #2 of Nationals--crazy, insane amount of stuff to do, culminating activity will either be student dance OR laser tag. Equally annoying LoL.
-11.13: Day #3 of Nationals--sleep deprived Becky does not equal a happy Becky
-11.14: Day #4 of Nationals--closing ceremonies, fly home with 6 high school students, SLEEP IN MY OWN BED
-11.15: School...somehow get through this day :( Have nothing planned yet, have no motivation to worry about this yet. Did I mention it's a Crier week? So I have no idea when I will leave on this day--but, it will not be pleasant. I am supposed to go to dinner with Betty, Beth, Chrisanne and Rachel...and I REALLY hope that I get to.
-11.16: Doctor's appointment @ 8:00 am, dentist appointment @ 12:15, Childbirth class @ 7:00, how's that for a "day off"
11.17: School, Crier Wednesday---will not be home before 10 P.M.
11.18: School, Crier Thursday--will not be home before 11 P.M
11.19: School...and then WEEKEND! Thank goodness.
At least the weekend of November 20th will be a fun one...3D ultrasound that we are desperately hoping baby Hoyle cooperates with us, Joyce's birthday party and pictures of Addy (no, I will not be getting paid...my time is not worth anyone in my family's money apparently--I have a legitimate business to everyone except family members...bitter? yes.)
Phew. I don't know why, but I feel a little bit better after just writing it all down. I can do this...right?
After this insanity, only one more paper between me and Christmas break :) Love Christmas...can't wait to spend almost two entire weeks with Randy and ASHLEY is coming home! :)
Thursday, November 4, 2010
Childbirth Classes...
...are terrifying. Seriously, really REALLY terrifying. Yesterday, Randy and I went to our very first childbirth class. I was REALLY tired, because another lovely side effect of pregnancy is that I can no longer sleep...at all. BUT, that is beside the point--we walk in a half-hour early, because we are THOSE people. Right on time--one of my brother's friends walks in with his wife, these are people that I'm not necessarily fond of, coupled with the fact that I just really get sick of seeing people I know EVERYWHERE I go. So, that was annoying thing #1, then we started to actually get into the class these same individuals began talking, LOUDLY, while I was trying to listen to the teacher.
Randy and I sat in the front...we are nerds. And we want to learn this stuff, we want to do this right. These individuals sat in the back, with another couple that they apparently knew, and they spoke, in their "outside" voices the entire time. ANNOYING.
Then, after some discussion about relaxation techniques, etc. etc. they put in the video. You know the one I am talking about. The video with a real-live birth. A human birth, not a pig birth (shout out--Chrisanne Terry), or the giraffe-baby birth that I saw a video of at the zoo.
There are several things that really weirded me out about this video.
- First, I really have to do that...and pretty soon. I'm not sure how that's going to work out.
- Second, this particular woman reached down and touched the baby's head as he/she was coming out...that is gross.
- Three, you have to "give birth" to the placenta after the baby, you don't just get to hang out with your baby.
- Four, these women were like totally naked during this process. I mean seriously naked. There are like 20 people around her and she is naked--I don't think I'm going to be comfortable with that. I don't want anyone to see all my junk.
In conclusion--I'm scared.
After the class, when Randy and I got into the car, he said, "Do you think we should just schedule a c-section?" and I thought, maybe that WOULD be easier.
However, our homework for this week is to read our "book," and to practice affirmations to each other. So, here's my public affirmation to Randy--
Randy-you are going to be (1) a great daddy and (2) you're going to be a great support in the delivery room and I know you'll be there for me. We'll be okay,and so will Baby Hoyle.
Randy and I sat in the front...we are nerds. And we want to learn this stuff, we want to do this right. These individuals sat in the back, with another couple that they apparently knew, and they spoke, in their "outside" voices the entire time. ANNOYING.
Then, after some discussion about relaxation techniques, etc. etc. they put in the video. You know the one I am talking about. The video with a real-live birth. A human birth, not a pig birth (shout out--Chrisanne Terry), or the giraffe-baby birth that I saw a video of at the zoo.
There are several things that really weirded me out about this video.
- First, I really have to do that...and pretty soon. I'm not sure how that's going to work out.
- Second, this particular woman reached down and touched the baby's head as he/she was coming out...that is gross.
- Three, you have to "give birth" to the placenta after the baby, you don't just get to hang out with your baby.
- Four, these women were like totally naked during this process. I mean seriously naked. There are like 20 people around her and she is naked--I don't think I'm going to be comfortable with that. I don't want anyone to see all my junk.
In conclusion--I'm scared.
After the class, when Randy and I got into the car, he said, "Do you think we should just schedule a c-section?" and I thought, maybe that WOULD be easier.
However, our homework for this week is to read our "book," and to practice affirmations to each other. So, here's my public affirmation to Randy--
Randy-you are going to be (1) a great daddy and (2) you're going to be a great support in the delivery room and I know you'll be there for me. We'll be okay,and so will Baby Hoyle.
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Flu shots, breastfeeding, birth plans, bumps and burgers
All of the following things have been on my mind a lot lately.
Flu shots: I have never gotten a flu shot before, so I thought maybe I didn't need one. I seriously thought about this for weeks, and maybe months. So, after several people telling me stories about how important flu shots are, and how they protect the baby even after delivery, I decided to get one. I was just going to go to Walgreens, but Randy wasn't comfortable with that. I went to the doctor's office to get one, and I sat in the waiting room seriously FREAKING out about getting a shot, and/or getting sick after I got the shot. After I got it, I was so freaked out about it, that I got light-headed on the way home, and I had to pull over and lay back. So, that decision is made, I hope it was the right one...but it's done.
Breastfeeding: Randy and I went to a breastfeeding class, and ever since I am completely obsessed with learning more about it, and getting more and more anxious about whether or not I will be able to do it. Some women are apparently not able to produce enough milk, and there are about 100 other things that could go wrong. I really want to make sure that I am able to breastfeed for as long as possible, so I just am really concerned about it. I bought a book about it, Randy and I have talked about it for...like hours, and I just can't get it out of my head.
Birth plans: there are like six THOUSAND things to think about when it comes to birth plans. There are certain things that Randy has to be "in charge" of, which stresses me out, and there are several things that I don't want to be screwed up. I wish that I could have a conversation with God, and just ask him "what's going to happen?" I am okay with everything, but I'd like to know what is going to happen, so I can mentally prepare myself. Now, I am not insane (yet!) and I know that's not going to happen. I just have a problem with not being able to control every aspect of the situation, and I want to be as prepared as possible. So, there's been a lot of stress in thinking about how I am going to deal with all of this.
Bumps: this one is two-fold. First, I am constantly being asked "Are you having twins?" and so I am getting a bit self-conscious about the size of my "bump". This is silly, I know, and I am happy that my little man is growing big and strong and healthy, but I am also scared about how he is going to grow 3 times the size he is in my stomach in the next three months. I just don't see how that is going to happen. And, I think that everyone I tell that fear to, laughs at me. I know it may seem silly, but it is REALLY scary to me--silly or not.
Burgers: Apparently, my baby really likes hamburgers. I have legitimately not had a hamburger, in probably 15 years...but, I have a confession. I have had two. That's right. I have been so good about only have my organic, cruelty-free chicken. However, I just absolutely could not resist...twice. Geez, I have some pretty bad guilt about it, but I am not going to make myself all upset about it, because from what I have read--what I crave, is what the baby needs. And, I can't help it. Judge me if you will :(
Flu shots: I have never gotten a flu shot before, so I thought maybe I didn't need one. I seriously thought about this for weeks, and maybe months. So, after several people telling me stories about how important flu shots are, and how they protect the baby even after delivery, I decided to get one. I was just going to go to Walgreens, but Randy wasn't comfortable with that. I went to the doctor's office to get one, and I sat in the waiting room seriously FREAKING out about getting a shot, and/or getting sick after I got the shot. After I got it, I was so freaked out about it, that I got light-headed on the way home, and I had to pull over and lay back. So, that decision is made, I hope it was the right one...but it's done.
Breastfeeding: Randy and I went to a breastfeeding class, and ever since I am completely obsessed with learning more about it, and getting more and more anxious about whether or not I will be able to do it. Some women are apparently not able to produce enough milk, and there are about 100 other things that could go wrong. I really want to make sure that I am able to breastfeed for as long as possible, so I just am really concerned about it. I bought a book about it, Randy and I have talked about it for...like hours, and I just can't get it out of my head.
Birth plans: there are like six THOUSAND things to think about when it comes to birth plans. There are certain things that Randy has to be "in charge" of, which stresses me out, and there are several things that I don't want to be screwed up. I wish that I could have a conversation with God, and just ask him "what's going to happen?" I am okay with everything, but I'd like to know what is going to happen, so I can mentally prepare myself. Now, I am not insane (yet!) and I know that's not going to happen. I just have a problem with not being able to control every aspect of the situation, and I want to be as prepared as possible. So, there's been a lot of stress in thinking about how I am going to deal with all of this.
Bumps: this one is two-fold. First, I am constantly being asked "Are you having twins?" and so I am getting a bit self-conscious about the size of my "bump". This is silly, I know, and I am happy that my little man is growing big and strong and healthy, but I am also scared about how he is going to grow 3 times the size he is in my stomach in the next three months. I just don't see how that is going to happen. And, I think that everyone I tell that fear to, laughs at me. I know it may seem silly, but it is REALLY scary to me--silly or not.
Burgers: Apparently, my baby really likes hamburgers. I have legitimately not had a hamburger, in probably 15 years...but, I have a confession. I have had two. That's right. I have been so good about only have my organic, cruelty-free chicken. However, I just absolutely could not resist...twice. Geez, I have some pretty bad guilt about it, but I am not going to make myself all upset about it, because from what I have read--what I crave, is what the baby needs. And, I can't help it. Judge me if you will :(
Saturday, October 30, 2010
My stubborn little man...
Today has been a really weird day. We were supposed to go to our 3D ultrasound this morning, and we were both incredibly excited about it. Well, we got a phone call around 9:00 saying that the machine was down, which made us both really sad. This was following by a phone call saying "It's back up!" Which we were incredibly excited about.
We get there, and our little one is laying curled up in a ball, with his face facing into me, which does not make it easy to see his cute little face :( So, we had to reschedule for 3 weeks from now, which is very sad!
Now, this was a rough couple of moments, but I am going to post some new belly pictures, look at them with caution, my belly may be bigger than it originally appears.
We are really hopeful that we can see him next time, mostly because we have some Christmas presents that are riding on these pictures! :)
Next time--little one--we expect a bit of cooperation! :)
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
When is Christmas going to be here?
So, fall is beautiful and everything...but I'm really ready to move on. I am not a fan of Halloween, I never really have been. Randy and I have been together for almost 11 years, and we have dressed up...one time. It was okay, but it wasn't that great. I just so do not get into the whole "I want to look like a slut" thing, because I don't...ever. I just don't get the whole appeal. Candy--I get. But, let's be honest, I can eat candy anytime at all.
So, I am looking forward to the "Halloween" season to be over with...because then MAKE WAY FOR CHRISTMAS! There are so many things to look forward to this coming holiday season, with baby boy Hoyle being the #1 thing!
In support of my anti-Halloween, pro-Christmas idealogy (now, let's be clear--I'm not some crazy "I hate Halloween because it's the Devil's holiday" sort of person...I am just not a huge fan)...Randy and I are skipping it all together this year. We carved a pumpkin, and that was fun, but we are done now.
This weekend we will be celebrating the beginning of the Christmas season. :)
Switching gears...I can't wait for this weekend, I seriously CANNOT wait. Yesterday I was at school until 9:30, tonight I will be here...later than that. Tomorrow I hope to leave by 9:00 or so, but I am not so optomistic about that. But...when Thursday hits, I will walk out those doors at 2:47 (approximately...it might be like 3:00) and I will pretend like this place does not exist over Fall Break. I will not grade, I will not come here, or think about work at all. Here are my plans (because I just like to write them down, it makes me even more excited).
- Friday, lunch with friends, dinner with Jenn and a MASSAGE! I am so ever-loving excited about a massage I can't even handle it.
- Saturday (the MOST exciting day)--Randy and I have our 3-D ultrasound at 9:30 am :), then we will be celebrating the start of Christmas season by decorating our house all day, and hanging out together--I can't wait.
-Sunday, maybe go to church (haven't done that in a while), and then nothing too exciting planned.
- Monday and Tuesday are relaxing days of cleaning, buying photography supplies, and watching OPRAH (aka my fake best friend).
Love it. Can't wait. It's making today MUCH more tolerable.
So, I am looking forward to the "Halloween" season to be over with...because then MAKE WAY FOR CHRISTMAS! There are so many things to look forward to this coming holiday season, with baby boy Hoyle being the #1 thing!
In support of my anti-Halloween, pro-Christmas idealogy (now, let's be clear--I'm not some crazy "I hate Halloween because it's the Devil's holiday" sort of person...I am just not a huge fan)...Randy and I are skipping it all together this year. We carved a pumpkin, and that was fun, but we are done now.
This weekend we will be celebrating the beginning of the Christmas season. :)
Switching gears...I can't wait for this weekend, I seriously CANNOT wait. Yesterday I was at school until 9:30, tonight I will be here...later than that. Tomorrow I hope to leave by 9:00 or so, but I am not so optomistic about that. But...when Thursday hits, I will walk out those doors at 2:47 (approximately...it might be like 3:00) and I will pretend like this place does not exist over Fall Break. I will not grade, I will not come here, or think about work at all. Here are my plans (because I just like to write them down, it makes me even more excited).
- Friday, lunch with friends, dinner with Jenn and a MASSAGE! I am so ever-loving excited about a massage I can't even handle it.
- Saturday (the MOST exciting day)--Randy and I have our 3-D ultrasound at 9:30 am :), then we will be celebrating the start of Christmas season by decorating our house all day, and hanging out together--I can't wait.
-Sunday, maybe go to church (haven't done that in a while), and then nothing too exciting planned.
- Monday and Tuesday are relaxing days of cleaning, buying photography supplies, and watching OPRAH (aka my fake best friend).
Love it. Can't wait. It's making today MUCH more tolerable.
Saturday, October 23, 2010
Reasons I love Randy
I don't write about Randy's awesomeness nearly enough, so here's a short list of reasons why I love my husband at the moment.
- I was out of town for 1 night (2 days), and he missed me, a lot. He is still talking about how happy he is to have me home! :) He couldn't sleep while I was gone.
- He cleaned up the entire house, changed the sheets and did the laundry so that the house would be clean when I came home, this changed my entire weekend and made it MUCH less stressful.
- This morning, when we woke up (at 6:15...no that's not a type, it's what happens when you go to sleep at 8:00 pm), we sung to the baby for a while, he made up new words to the "Hush Little Baby" song...it was hilarious.
- He plays with Ella all the time, and gets me whatever I need...pretty much all the time.
- He goes with my to the Highland Kiddie store and talks about christening our baby boy for...well, hours.
- This morning, we had a long conversation about how we would go about killing each other, if we needed to. Both of us had long, elaborate plans drawn out in our heads--this did not offend either of us. (Randy's had to do with freezing my body, so those of you that love me--if I ever go missing, look in the freezer!)
- He makes me laugh...all the time.
So, I love him, and most of the time, I don't even want to throw him in the White River.
- I was out of town for 1 night (2 days), and he missed me, a lot. He is still talking about how happy he is to have me home! :) He couldn't sleep while I was gone.
- He cleaned up the entire house, changed the sheets and did the laundry so that the house would be clean when I came home, this changed my entire weekend and made it MUCH less stressful.
- This morning, when we woke up (at 6:15...no that's not a type, it's what happens when you go to sleep at 8:00 pm), we sung to the baby for a while, he made up new words to the "Hush Little Baby" song...it was hilarious.
- He plays with Ella all the time, and gets me whatever I need...pretty much all the time.
- He goes with my to the Highland Kiddie store and talks about christening our baby boy for...well, hours.
- This morning, we had a long conversation about how we would go about killing each other, if we needed to. Both of us had long, elaborate plans drawn out in our heads--this did not offend either of us. (Randy's had to do with freezing my body, so those of you that love me--if I ever go missing, look in the freezer!)
- He makes me laugh...all the time.
So, I love him, and most of the time, I don't even want to throw him in the White River.
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
I get by with a little help from my friends...
Another week, another VERY,VERY busy week. Yesterday at work was absolutely non-stop, trying to get things ready for state convention and nationals all at the same time is very stressful to me. Now, I know the seasoned pros can do this with very little stress, but--to me--it's a lot. Here was my day yesterday.
So, after a run to the hospital on Sunday night for Randy's mom (she is fine--no one worry!), in which Randy was incredibly upset about, which led to a late night on Sunday, I headed off to work Monday and worked, and worked, and worked, and then school was over. So, I went to Borders with my yearbook staff to look at design ideas. In the midst of all the insanity that was my day, Randy decided to stay home because he literally did not sleep at all on Sunday night (he's more emotional than one might think). Before I left I said to him, "please call the daycare provider--ask the questions we talked about, and tell her to keep us on the list for next year and solidify our spot." He said (wholeheartedly)..."Okay!" I got to school, e-mailed him a detailed list of what I wanted him to say/ask, and then called him and reminded him, to which he replied, "What are you talking about? I never said I would do that?" Which got us into a rather large fight. Now--he did end up calling, and getting everything straightened out, and we are fine and both still living, but it was stressful.
Then, I got home, the house was a mess, so I ate, went on a walk (making those a bigger priority nowadays) and cleaned up the house. I was absolutely exhausted, angry with Randy for not straightening up the house earlier, feeling very unloved and unsupported...
And then I got a text, from Jenn. It said "What are you doing next Friday evening? We have plans!"
Well, Jenn scheduled dinner and a pre-natal massage for me (and a "normal" massage for her) next Friday night. Are you kidding me? I legitimately felt happy for the first time the entire day! Next weekend is going to be the best weekend ever!
- Friday, OFF WORK--dinner and massages with the best friend EVER!
- Saturday, 3-D Ultrasound and Christmas decorating with Randy ALL DAY--don't judge, we know it's October 30th
- Sunday-more Christmas decorating :)
- Monday--OFF WORK
- Tuesday--OFF WORK! :) :) :) :)
This week needs to end already so next week can get here and I can anticipate the weekend :)
Jenn-you're awesome, and you are seriously the most thoughtful human being on the planet! thank you SOOOOOO much!
So, after a run to the hospital on Sunday night for Randy's mom (she is fine--no one worry!), in which Randy was incredibly upset about, which led to a late night on Sunday, I headed off to work Monday and worked, and worked, and worked, and then school was over. So, I went to Borders with my yearbook staff to look at design ideas. In the midst of all the insanity that was my day, Randy decided to stay home because he literally did not sleep at all on Sunday night (he's more emotional than one might think). Before I left I said to him, "please call the daycare provider--ask the questions we talked about, and tell her to keep us on the list for next year and solidify our spot." He said (wholeheartedly)..."Okay!" I got to school, e-mailed him a detailed list of what I wanted him to say/ask, and then called him and reminded him, to which he replied, "What are you talking about? I never said I would do that?" Which got us into a rather large fight. Now--he did end up calling, and getting everything straightened out, and we are fine and both still living, but it was stressful.
Then, I got home, the house was a mess, so I ate, went on a walk (making those a bigger priority nowadays) and cleaned up the house. I was absolutely exhausted, angry with Randy for not straightening up the house earlier, feeling very unloved and unsupported...
And then I got a text, from Jenn. It said "What are you doing next Friday evening? We have plans!"
Well, Jenn scheduled dinner and a pre-natal massage for me (and a "normal" massage for her) next Friday night. Are you kidding me? I legitimately felt happy for the first time the entire day! Next weekend is going to be the best weekend ever!
- Friday, OFF WORK--dinner and massages with the best friend EVER!
- Saturday, 3-D Ultrasound and Christmas decorating with Randy ALL DAY--don't judge, we know it's October 30th
- Sunday-more Christmas decorating :)
- Monday--OFF WORK
- Tuesday--OFF WORK! :) :) :) :)
This week needs to end already so next week can get here and I can anticipate the weekend :)
Jenn-you're awesome, and you are seriously the most thoughtful human being on the planet! thank you SOOOOOO much!
Friday, October 15, 2010
Confusion
So, yesterday, the teacher that has the classroom across from me had a rough day. Her daughter was sick and vomited at school, she had to leave school and go pick her up, then come back to school. She was telling me how she has been absent twice already this week, and she hadn't seen her sophomores at all, and her daughter didn't feel well this morning, but she sent her to school anyways.
Then she said something which was incredibly provocative to me, "Sometimes I just can't decide whether to be a good mom or a good teacher..." and I just couldn't breathe for a moment. Is it going to be possible to be both?
I feel like this a lot of the time already. I often say that I can choose to be ahead in life, or at school? I cannot have both at the same time. This is something that has just started this year. How do I change this? I do not want to have to choose between these two things, because, to me, there is no option. I will always want to be a good mom, more than I want to be a good teacher. But, can I be both? I want to be an effective teacher, a good teacher, and a good mom. How do I do both jobs?
I am hopeful that I am able to find a way to follow the path and find how to be a good mother and a good teacher, but I am also realistic, and I know that my baby will be much more important to me than anything or anyone else in the entire world.
I sometimes feel an immense amount of guilt (when I say sometimes--what I mean is every morning) when I leave Ella in the bedroom in the morning. I always say "Love you munch! Mommy is so sorry that she has to go to work, she will be able to hang out with you in ____ days." How much worse will this feel when I have to leave my Ella at home, and then drive my son to daycare?
I hope I can handle it.
I am so full of emotions these days, I mostly just hope I can handle getting through the next 10 minutes, LoL.
P.S. So happy it's Friday--weekend is jam-packed full of fun stuff. I hope everything goes well! :)
Then she said something which was incredibly provocative to me, "Sometimes I just can't decide whether to be a good mom or a good teacher..." and I just couldn't breathe for a moment. Is it going to be possible to be both?
I feel like this a lot of the time already. I often say that I can choose to be ahead in life, or at school? I cannot have both at the same time. This is something that has just started this year. How do I change this? I do not want to have to choose between these two things, because, to me, there is no option. I will always want to be a good mom, more than I want to be a good teacher. But, can I be both? I want to be an effective teacher, a good teacher, and a good mom. How do I do both jobs?
I am hopeful that I am able to find a way to follow the path and find how to be a good mother and a good teacher, but I am also realistic, and I know that my baby will be much more important to me than anything or anyone else in the entire world.
I sometimes feel an immense amount of guilt (when I say sometimes--what I mean is every morning) when I leave Ella in the bedroom in the morning. I always say "Love you munch! Mommy is so sorry that she has to go to work, she will be able to hang out with you in ____ days." How much worse will this feel when I have to leave my Ella at home, and then drive my son to daycare?
I hope I can handle it.
I am so full of emotions these days, I mostly just hope I can handle getting through the next 10 minutes, LoL.
P.S. So happy it's Friday--weekend is jam-packed full of fun stuff. I hope everything goes well! :)
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Life is...overwhelming at the moment
I have no words to describe my life at the moment other than...overwhelming. My life is so crazy right now, I can't even believe that I have the time to do this, and honestly, I really don't. I should be making a PowerPoint presentation to teach financial backers and Regulatory agencies in the media (sounds like fun, doesn't it?), but instead I am here...blogging away, because I need to feel like I have somewhere to vent, and someone to vent TO.
My life is full of both frustrations and wonderful things. And it's the juxtaposition of these two things that make it a bit difficult.
Frustration #1: Sleeping has become incredibly uncomfortable. I wake up 2-3 times a night, every night to go to the bathroom. I also cannot sleep on my back (at all) anymore, which is really hard for me, which means that I wake up with pains in my neck, back and hips from sleeping on my sides. This is made exponentially harder because all I can think about is getting a massage, but I don't know how that would even work with my gigantic stomach. AND--Randy is very inconsistent about giving me massages, he always has good intentions, but I go to sleep earlier than he does, so it rarely pans out.
Frustration #2: I have already talked about this, so I won't elaborate too much, but school is rough lately--I feel like I don't have a whole lot of experience, time, or good ideas at the moment. I am truly in survival mode, and I'm just trying to get through it. I have two big field trips coming up within the next month--state is next week (in Franklin, Indiana) and Nationals are in mid-November, and I honestly just can't wait until they are OVER! Booking flights, buses, getting permission slips, etc. IS EXHAUSTING! However, I have recently found that my department is exceptionally supportive, and they have helped me feel less alone, which is something that I didn't expect.
Frustration #3: I have been feeling ignored by my friends, and this may be partially my own fault, because I am just so busy, but I just feel like no one cares at the moment. This is whiny, and bitchy, but it's true. I feel very unsupported at the moment! :(
Frustration #4: Heartburn...it isn't fun and it's making me feel terrible.
Now, there are so many wonderful things at the same time
Wonderful thing #1: My baby boy :) He is moving around like crazy, and sometimes it makes me so incredibly happy that I want to cry. I feel so grateful that he is in there, and he is doing okay. I just can't wait to meet him.
Wonderful thing #2: Randy is home so much more often, and he has some actual time to hang out. This makes me so much more calm, it's great.
Wonderful thing #3: Our house is so close to being finished, I mean it's incredibly close. Randy needs to put up a mirror, paint doors and trim and Randy's dad needs to finish a bit of electrical work, and the entire upstairs is done. It's so wonderful.
I don't even know how to handle this amount of stress, but I feel like maybe just going to sleep now will make me feel better NOW, but worse in the long run. Just trying my best to get ahead. I am just living week to week right now, and maybe that is how this year will have to be, and I'll have to accept it. I can't do everything perfectly, I really can't. Maybe that's okay, but I still want to do my best, and I am trying.
My life is full of both frustrations and wonderful things. And it's the juxtaposition of these two things that make it a bit difficult.
Frustration #1: Sleeping has become incredibly uncomfortable. I wake up 2-3 times a night, every night to go to the bathroom. I also cannot sleep on my back (at all) anymore, which is really hard for me, which means that I wake up with pains in my neck, back and hips from sleeping on my sides. This is made exponentially harder because all I can think about is getting a massage, but I don't know how that would even work with my gigantic stomach. AND--Randy is very inconsistent about giving me massages, he always has good intentions, but I go to sleep earlier than he does, so it rarely pans out.
Frustration #2: I have already talked about this, so I won't elaborate too much, but school is rough lately--I feel like I don't have a whole lot of experience, time, or good ideas at the moment. I am truly in survival mode, and I'm just trying to get through it. I have two big field trips coming up within the next month--state is next week (in Franklin, Indiana) and Nationals are in mid-November, and I honestly just can't wait until they are OVER! Booking flights, buses, getting permission slips, etc. IS EXHAUSTING! However, I have recently found that my department is exceptionally supportive, and they have helped me feel less alone, which is something that I didn't expect.
Frustration #3: I have been feeling ignored by my friends, and this may be partially my own fault, because I am just so busy, but I just feel like no one cares at the moment. This is whiny, and bitchy, but it's true. I feel very unsupported at the moment! :(
Frustration #4: Heartburn...it isn't fun and it's making me feel terrible.
Now, there are so many wonderful things at the same time
Wonderful thing #1: My baby boy :) He is moving around like crazy, and sometimes it makes me so incredibly happy that I want to cry. I feel so grateful that he is in there, and he is doing okay. I just can't wait to meet him.
Wonderful thing #2: Randy is home so much more often, and he has some actual time to hang out. This makes me so much more calm, it's great.
Wonderful thing #3: Our house is so close to being finished, I mean it's incredibly close. Randy needs to put up a mirror, paint doors and trim and Randy's dad needs to finish a bit of electrical work, and the entire upstairs is done. It's so wonderful.
I don't even know how to handle this amount of stress, but I feel like maybe just going to sleep now will make me feel better NOW, but worse in the long run. Just trying my best to get ahead. I am just living week to week right now, and maybe that is how this year will have to be, and I'll have to accept it. I can't do everything perfectly, I really can't. Maybe that's okay, but I still want to do my best, and I am trying.
Monday, October 11, 2010
Seriously feeling like a failure...
Today was a rough day at work. I feel like I simply cannot get ahead in life. I cannot stay ahead of the game, and staying "ahead" is something that I have always been relatively good at. I am not usually a person who is behind in grading, planning, or really anything. I work pretty hard, but I feel like this new job is so over my head.
Today I got to school and within 15 minutes had already been reprimanded twice...
Once, because I didn't turn in the appropriate paperwork for a field trip and second, because I hadn't updated my gradebook for photography in over a week (you are supposed to input new grades at least once a week).
I don't know what it is, but I really feel unprepared for what this job has brought me. Now, don't get me wrong, I am incredibly grateful for it, and most days I really do love it, but today was a bad day. I just feel like I will never figure out how to keep my head above water, I will never do a good job and I am not really preparing these students for life--especially in journalism. I love teaching photography, and honestly, Nancy trained the newspaper and yearbook kids so well, I don't do a whole lot in there either, but journalism. I just feel like a constant and consistent failure, and I really try hard, but I feel like I don't know what I am doing, and it's so frustrating and I hate it. I want so much to be an effective teacher. I really just want to succeed.
Today I got to school and within 15 minutes had already been reprimanded twice...
Once, because I didn't turn in the appropriate paperwork for a field trip and second, because I hadn't updated my gradebook for photography in over a week (you are supposed to input new grades at least once a week).
I don't know what it is, but I really feel unprepared for what this job has brought me. Now, don't get me wrong, I am incredibly grateful for it, and most days I really do love it, but today was a bad day. I just feel like I will never figure out how to keep my head above water, I will never do a good job and I am not really preparing these students for life--especially in journalism. I love teaching photography, and honestly, Nancy trained the newspaper and yearbook kids so well, I don't do a whole lot in there either, but journalism. I just feel like a constant and consistent failure, and I really try hard, but I feel like I don't know what I am doing, and it's so frustrating and I hate it. I want so much to be an effective teacher. I really just want to succeed.
Sunday, October 10, 2010
Blah day...
Today was supposed to be a wonderful day. We were supposed to go to the pumpkin patch today...with my entire family. That means...Mom, Dad, Renee, John, Ava, Grant, Ryan, Sarah, Addison, Randy, Ashley and me. This particular pumpkin patch is absolutely beautiful, it has a petting zoo, a hayride, lots of things to do, and is across the street from my favorite church in the entire world. Well, this morning Randy and I woke up...we were both excited about going and showered and got dressed. We then went off to Home Depot, and I called my dad...bad news #1
1. Ava had been up all night at Grandma and Papa's house vomiting. Which means, Ava didn't sleep all night, Grant didn't go to sleep until midnight, and Grandma and Papa haven't slept either. Papa then claims that--Ava is feeling better, so he thinks we are still going.
Bad news #2. It's going to be 86 degrees today...WHAT THE HELL? It's October. I HATE it when it's 86 degrees in August, let alone in mid-October.
Bad news #3. Renee calls and says, Ava and Grant are not going to be going to the pumpkin patch, it's a recipe for disaster.
Bad news #4. Ryan and Sarah and Addison have colds, they are not going either. Hmm...that leaves...Mom, Dad, Randy, Becky and Ashley...and no children at all, except for the little man in my uterus, who isn't likely to be too involved.
So...no pumpkin patch at all! :( That made me very sad. To make matters worse, then I started to not feel very well. I actually thought I was going to pass out again in Menards, and Randy was being a brat for most of the morning (he was disappointed too).
So, that was our morning. We tried our best to make the best of it--we went to Panera for lunch, and then we went and saw The Social Network together, and then spent some quality snuggle-time with the Ella Bella, which is always absolutely wonderful. We were also able to pick out counter-tops for the bathroom and Randy was able to get those counter-tops cut and placed in the bathroom! We are so tantalizingly close to being done with the house, it's truly becoming beautiful!
There are a lot of great things going on right now too...though this blog is very depressing. First, Randy has been feeling the baby move more and more lately. Today at the movies he felt 3 different kicks. I hope he thinks it is as fabulous as I do. Secondly, I turned in my letter for maternity leave last week, which is also wonderful. It gives me a light at the end of the tunnel. I put a start date of January 24th through the end of the year. I truly hope that it works out for me to make it that far, I hope I don't get placed on bedrest or anything like that. Also, Randy and I met with a pediatrician who we liked a lot, and we think we have our daycare provider picked out too! Also, this Tuesday I will officially be 24 weeks, or SIX MONTHS :) Almost done with the second trimester. All good things.
Tomorrow is Monday, which makes me exceptionally sad, but another week of school, means another week closer to my little guy! :)
1. Ava had been up all night at Grandma and Papa's house vomiting. Which means, Ava didn't sleep all night, Grant didn't go to sleep until midnight, and Grandma and Papa haven't slept either. Papa then claims that--Ava is feeling better, so he thinks we are still going.
Bad news #2. It's going to be 86 degrees today...WHAT THE HELL? It's October. I HATE it when it's 86 degrees in August, let alone in mid-October.
Bad news #3. Renee calls and says, Ava and Grant are not going to be going to the pumpkin patch, it's a recipe for disaster.
Bad news #4. Ryan and Sarah and Addison have colds, they are not going either. Hmm...that leaves...Mom, Dad, Randy, Becky and Ashley...and no children at all, except for the little man in my uterus, who isn't likely to be too involved.
So...no pumpkin patch at all! :( That made me very sad. To make matters worse, then I started to not feel very well. I actually thought I was going to pass out again in Menards, and Randy was being a brat for most of the morning (he was disappointed too).
So, that was our morning. We tried our best to make the best of it--we went to Panera for lunch, and then we went and saw The Social Network together, and then spent some quality snuggle-time with the Ella Bella, which is always absolutely wonderful. We were also able to pick out counter-tops for the bathroom and Randy was able to get those counter-tops cut and placed in the bathroom! We are so tantalizingly close to being done with the house, it's truly becoming beautiful!
There are a lot of great things going on right now too...though this blog is very depressing. First, Randy has been feeling the baby move more and more lately. Today at the movies he felt 3 different kicks. I hope he thinks it is as fabulous as I do. Secondly, I turned in my letter for maternity leave last week, which is also wonderful. It gives me a light at the end of the tunnel. I put a start date of January 24th through the end of the year. I truly hope that it works out for me to make it that far, I hope I don't get placed on bedrest or anything like that. Also, Randy and I met with a pediatrician who we liked a lot, and we think we have our daycare provider picked out too! Also, this Tuesday I will officially be 24 weeks, or SIX MONTHS :) Almost done with the second trimester. All good things.
Tomorrow is Monday, which makes me exceptionally sad, but another week of school, means another week closer to my little guy! :)
Friday, October 8, 2010
Pediatrician appointment & Daycare...handled?
I am really feeling "ahead of the times." Last week, one of the teachers at school recommended another teacher's wife who does daycare in their home. A teacher that I had, Randy knows these people's son and several teachers have brought their children to this woman. Bonus--she only charges $20/day. So, we are on her list--we won't meet with her or officially decide until 2011, but it's nice to know that we are down on a list for daycare next year :) I am WAY WAY WAY ahead of the game.
Also, we are meeting with the first (and I still hope the last, if we really like him I hope we don't have to go to any other doctors) of the top three pediatricians that we liked today. I'll be pretty happy when this is all decided.
Just some more things to cross off the list.
Don't you worry-I have a typed list of questions for each provider ready to go. I'm also taking suggestions for anyone else.
AND IT IS FRIDAY!
Also, we are meeting with the first (and I still hope the last, if we really like him I hope we don't have to go to any other doctors) of the top three pediatricians that we liked today. I'll be pretty happy when this is all decided.
Just some more things to cross off the list.
Don't you worry-I have a typed list of questions for each provider ready to go. I'm also taking suggestions for anyone else.
AND IT IS FRIDAY!
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Belly Update
Ella is very excited about her brother :)
Seriously...ridiculous. Becky (and baby)at 23 weeks
Productive day in baby-land :)
So today, I got a LOT of things done for this little guy :)
- I scheduled a breastfeeding class. Now, if you haven't heard, apparently breastfeeding, which is supposed to be natural, can be quite tricky. I am hoping that this is not the case for me, but I am goign to a class on October 28th to figure it out! :)
- I scheduled Randy and I's pre-natal classes through our hospital. Also, natural childbirth is something that you have to learn about. I'm glad that this is happening though,because it gives us an excuse to look around the hospital and pre-register and all that good stuff!
- I scheduled our first "meet and greet" with one of the three doctors that we have narrowed it down to on Friday. I am going to meet with him on Friday, and I am hopeful that Randy can come too!
- I called the person that I hope will work out to be our day-care provider next year! :) She is calling me in a day or so to verify that she will have an opening, and then we can talk to her more about things.
I also FINALLY got an e-mail from my HR department about some of my questions regarding maternity leave. GOODNESS, that's a lot of stuff in one day! :)
- I scheduled a breastfeeding class. Now, if you haven't heard, apparently breastfeeding, which is supposed to be natural, can be quite tricky. I am hoping that this is not the case for me, but I am goign to a class on October 28th to figure it out! :)
- I scheduled Randy and I's pre-natal classes through our hospital. Also, natural childbirth is something that you have to learn about. I'm glad that this is happening though,because it gives us an excuse to look around the hospital and pre-register and all that good stuff!
- I scheduled our first "meet and greet" with one of the three doctors that we have narrowed it down to on Friday. I am going to meet with him on Friday, and I am hopeful that Randy can come too!
- I called the person that I hope will work out to be our day-care provider next year! :) She is calling me in a day or so to verify that she will have an opening, and then we can talk to her more about things.
I also FINALLY got an e-mail from my HR department about some of my questions regarding maternity leave. GOODNESS, that's a lot of stuff in one day! :)
Friday, October 1, 2010
Leaky boobs and late nights...
Yeah, I bet you can't beat that title, I'm just saying.
This week, I have been at work over 64 hours. That's just this week. I got into an "arguement" over facebook with some idiot over the summer who said, "I wish I had a part-time job, like a teacher or something." I really wanted to punch him in the face, he then went on to defend himself and talk about how teachers work about 30 hours a week, here's the kicker--he's married to a teacher. How much would I kick Randy's butt if he said I had a "part-time" job to all of facebook. P.S.--your wife is a CRAPPY teacher if she only works 30 hours a week, since my school day schedule is 40 hours a week. Idiot. So, anyways, I digress, working 64 hours a week is really difficult to do, especially when you're more tired than normal anyways. However, all the nights went relatively smoothly, except for last night. We were here until 11:00...no that's not a typo...I walked in my door after 11:00. Most of you know that during this pregnancy I tend to sleep...a lot. It's one of my favorite things to do, sleeping and then eating. So, that is an entire 2 hours after my normal "bed time," which makes me not a happy camper this morning. However, I think that we have published another successful paper--which is awesome.
Dilemma #2--I have officially started "leaking" every once and a while. Now, my baby book assures me that this is just colostrum (unsure of the spelling) and it is preparing me for the joys of breastfeeding. LoL. BUT, it is WEIRD. Twice at night there have been little stains on my shirt, which (of course) Randy has found and had a great time making fun of me! :) it's all part of the fun.
I am so happy that it's Friday. I am so happy that I am getting my hair done tonight (not happy about having to sit in the chair for 2 hours, but happy it'll be done and not look like crap anymore), and SO SO excited to spend the day with Randy tomorrow. We are having a "date day," which is so lame. BUT, we haven't spent any real time together for months, and I'm excited for shopping, walking Ella, movie-watching and a nice dinner. :) I just have to get to 5:00 today...and I have faith that I can do it.
This week, I have been at work over 64 hours. That's just this week. I got into an "arguement" over facebook with some idiot over the summer who said, "I wish I had a part-time job, like a teacher or something." I really wanted to punch him in the face, he then went on to defend himself and talk about how teachers work about 30 hours a week, here's the kicker--he's married to a teacher. How much would I kick Randy's butt if he said I had a "part-time" job to all of facebook. P.S.--your wife is a CRAPPY teacher if she only works 30 hours a week, since my school day schedule is 40 hours a week. Idiot. So, anyways, I digress, working 64 hours a week is really difficult to do, especially when you're more tired than normal anyways. However, all the nights went relatively smoothly, except for last night. We were here until 11:00...no that's not a typo...I walked in my door after 11:00. Most of you know that during this pregnancy I tend to sleep...a lot. It's one of my favorite things to do, sleeping and then eating. So, that is an entire 2 hours after my normal "bed time," which makes me not a happy camper this morning. However, I think that we have published another successful paper--which is awesome.
Dilemma #2--I have officially started "leaking" every once and a while. Now, my baby book assures me that this is just colostrum (unsure of the spelling) and it is preparing me for the joys of breastfeeding. LoL. BUT, it is WEIRD. Twice at night there have been little stains on my shirt, which (of course) Randy has found and had a great time making fun of me! :) it's all part of the fun.
I am so happy that it's Friday. I am so happy that I am getting my hair done tonight (not happy about having to sit in the chair for 2 hours, but happy it'll be done and not look like crap anymore), and SO SO excited to spend the day with Randy tomorrow. We are having a "date day," which is so lame. BUT, we haven't spent any real time together for months, and I'm excited for shopping, walking Ella, movie-watching and a nice dinner. :) I just have to get to 5:00 today...and I have faith that I can do it.
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Feeling Baby Hoyle
Just thought I'd share...Randy felt the baby move for the first time yesterday. Now, he moves...a LOT. I have felt him every day since the very first day I felt him, and they get more frequent and more prominent. The last week or so, I've been "making" Randy put his hands on my belly every night in order to get him to feel the baby. He gets annoyed because I will keep saying "did you feel that?" because there are some kicks/movements that he can't feel. However, yesterday he felt a real-live kick! :)
It was so exciting because I've been waiting for it for a while! :)
This blog post is going to be exceptionally short because I am oh-so tired and am wanting to go to sleep ASAP.
It was so exciting because I've been waiting for it for a while! :)
This blog post is going to be exceptionally short because I am oh-so tired and am wanting to go to sleep ASAP.
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