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 :)
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