Joy unexpected

pictures...

2009-12-12T20:11:00.000-08:00

More pictures

2009-12-01T19:14:00.000-08:00

Playing ball.

Cool new Publix truck.

Playing with his brother.

In his meeting clothes (with Oreo). This one is from October (clearly his hair is a lot shorter) but I had to pop it in.

Landen

2009-12-01T19:10:00.000-08:00

Logan

2009-12-01T19:05:00.000-08:00

My little Logan, who turned one yesterday.

Ball in his shirt, he thought this was hysterical.

2009-12-01T18:57:00.000-08:00

Landen dancing, and the boys playing together.

Watching the tree cutting truck.

Rasperries!

12-01-09

2009-12-01T18:37:00.000-08:00

I'm really so uncreative that I cannot come up with blog titles, so I am sticking with dates for now.

Today was a hard day for Landen, he is going through a no more naps phase? or transition. It's hard on him, he is soooo tired. Tired 3 year old equals cranky and naughty 3 year old. We were really looking forward to the park this afternoon and I had to take that away from him. I had to prove a point to this naughty boy. It was sad, he was so sad, I was sad, what mom doesn't want to give her child everything he wants?
I did enjoy the afternoon though, I focused on the boys, put aside chores, studies, anything else that needed to be done, and we just played, read books, and talked. Life gets so busy, that it goes by, without much time for moments like those.
I'm thinking he needs some good structure. We do things everyday, usually going to a park, reading books, doing calendars, doing a craft, but when things get busy, somethings go missing, and I think he really just needs to use his brain, and learn, and grow. So, that is my goal for the rest of the week, lots of structure and hope that will make a difference.
When it comes to his learning/reading I am not sure where to go next. He knows the letters and letter sounds, and wants to learn more, starts to sound out words, really has been for almost a year, but we are kinda stuck there. As much as he wants to learn, and asks, its hard to get him to focus. He is such a boy, always wants to play play play. :)
Looking forward to the rest of the week. Tomorrow is Wednesday, perhaps service? I should go get my bag ready now. Night!

11.28.2009

2009-11-28T20:15:00.000-08:00

A friend of mine just invited my to his photography blog. Check it out:

http://maz-blahblahblog.blogspot.com/ and maybe follow him. He takes great pictures! Actually took our engagement and wedding pictures. An email from him inspired me to update my blog.
Year 1-100 posts
Year 2-22 posts
Ouch not doing so well this time around! Life with two is busy.
I cannot believe that on Monday, Logan will be one year old. I know he's still a baby, but it feels like I won't have my little baby anymore. He has been walking for a while now....regular mode of transportation since 10 months, saying a few words, loves to play, great sleeper, just a good boy. He is happy, and looooves to eat, although he is thinning out.
Landen is almost 3 years and 4 months. Milestones are not as regular now that he is older, but he's fun to talk to you. He says the funniest things, and is always surprising us.
The weather is cold right now. It's been nice, around 80, but we have a cold front coming through and the nights are going down to the 40s, and the days are in the 60s. I am not used to this weather and we have been cooped up in the house. BRRRRRRR. Matt is so used to wearing short around the house that he keeps putting on the heat! I keep saying to him "Matt put some clothes on", as my mom used to repeat to me when I was younger, and it would drive me crazy. LOL Now here I am saying it to my husband. Every time I look the heat is on 75.
Anyway, this cold weather encouraged us to set up our tent in the living room. It's a giant 2 room tent, and the boys had a sleepover in it. Of course my camera has been in hibernation lately. Not really, just going through a phase.
In-laws just moved down, its nice to have them close, the kids love them. They are coming over for dinner tomorrow, and I am nervous to cook for them. I do it often, but I just get so nervous. 6 years later even. I am thinking I will make cheeseburger quiche. Nothing special, but Matt and the kids like it...well, Logan has not tried it. Of course I can't find my recipe. :P
It's 11:30, and tomorrow is a meeting day, so off to bed!

Us

2009-10-01T09:34:00.000-07:00

9.28.2008

2009-09-28T12:21:00.000-07:00

Today we did a reshoot of Landen at Donna's house. We had done it a couple weeks ago, and in about 5 minutes she captured both boys, but that was all the time we got, I was happy with the pictures, but Landen's were so so.
Today we got some more time, and although it took longer to get him to smile, I think we got some good ones. I also jumped in for one with the boys for one of all of us. I was just wearing a tank, and none of us matched, but I hope it comes out cute.
I really can't believe how fast my boys are growing. Having two seems to make time go by so much faster. No more sitting around gazing at the little ones, trying to memorize every moment. I feel like I am so busy, always something to do, that I am rarely sitting, just enjoying them.
Logan will be 10 months in a couple days and is about 21-22 lbs I think. I don't remember perfectly, but I think he's a little bigger than his brother at this age but not by much. I'd have to dig out my chart. LOL Mom brain. Logan is taking steps now, eating lots of solids- he LOVES to eat, and just a sweet easy going baby.
Landen is...I dunno, 34-35 lbs now. He has a skinny little waist. I have some 2t jeans on him today for the picture, that kept falling down, but almost a little short. He is such a boy, climbing, running, torturing anything he can (bugs, brother, dog, ect). His "listening ears" aren't quite up to par lately, and sometimes I feel like I am saying things over and over and over. He's a good boy though. Very smart, and is into firemen, trains, and newly into dinosaurs, although I am not sure how long that will hang on.
I am just so ready to leave Florida. I am making some great friends here, that makes me not want to leave, but its time. I have been so set on it for a while now, that hopefully something will happen soon. We will rent, hopefully find a house with a backyard, until we get to know the area. Eventually, hopefully we can buy again. I am really looking forward to the mountains, fall, with its changing leaves, winter, with the snow, and spring with so many gorgeous blooming flowers. In FL the only season we really get is summer, and its hot and intense. Just now we are getting a forecast that the weather will be going below a high of 90. Just in time for October. Then as it cools off, we can poor imitation seasons. The leaves turn brown, but never colorful, it gets cold, but usually not much lower than 50 during the day, and thats a cold day, no snow, and then finally comes spring, and its just green. Not many flowers.
Matt has been having eye problems, bleeding in his eyes, and on Friday, he got a shot in his eye that should help. He should find out in a couple weeks if he needs more. YUCK. But, he's happy at his new job, and we are both getting ready for some big changes.
Jeff and Maryann, Matt's parents just sold their house, and will be moving to FL. They are unsure of their final destination, might buy in FL, although they don't want to stay here.
I am looking forward to having them nearby for the kids though. :)
And that's all for now. :)

9.23.09

2009-09-23T06:49:00.000-07:00

It's been so long since I've blogged, its hard to start up again. I am so going to try though.

Landen is 3, and doing well, Logan is 10 months (in a couple days) and time is flying by. He is taking a few steps, and a happy boy.

Matt has a new job, which he seems to be enjoying. We've been going through a lot of heart wrenching health scares with him. One thing after another.

We are hoping to move to Asheville at some point, at least in the next year.

There is so much to catch up on, that I think I won't catch you up, but just start anew, assuming I can do that again.

Next month, Ina May Gaskin, a midwife, writer, teacher, will be in the Sarasota area, about an hour and a half from me. I plan to go see her, she is giving a talk on modern maternal care. I am hoping that my doula from Logan's birth, and my friend, will attend with me.
Logan will be one soon, and I really want to figure out the circumstances to start doing births regularly. I just don't know how that would go with Matt's work. I need to find care for the boys...although my in laws will be here in November, maybe they will help?

That's all for now, gotta feed Logan.

where to start...

2009-05-20T08:48:00.001-07:00

It's been such a long time, and such a crazy 2 months, that I have been avoiding posting. To many details, to many crazy happenings.
Well, right now we are home on this rainy day, all free playdates were cancelled, and the only thing left is Chuck E Cheese, and I'm just not feeling it (and neither is my wallet).
Matt was in the hospital for a bit, he was whisked off in the ambulence, kept in the ICU, moved to the CCU, and stayed for 5 days. He went back to work just the other day, and Landen is a bit thrown off by all that has happened. Behaviorly, and emotionally.
For example, whenever Matt goes to work, he says "daddy went in the ambulence, and he went to the doctor, and the doctor fixed his booboo", and worries about when he will come home. When we drive by the h0spital he repeats this, or an ambulence. He plays with his ambulence, and says daddy went in the back to go the doctor.
As for behaviorly, as soon as dad left he started a spell of not listening, no's, and being naughty. Perhaps a busy week visit from my mom, then a week in Orlando, to Matt leaving, one after another, maybe it started then, and we were just so busy that I never focused on it. Although its not over, its definetly gotten better, time outs and ect, have helped. Rainy days have not.
Logan is doing great. He is still great sleep through the night, and several naps per day boy. He is easy going and happy, and never really complains. He awoke briefly around 6 am this morning, squirming, I pulled his legs to his chest, he let out a few toots, and was happy. He is getting around, getting into Landen's toys, and everything else he can reach. He is trying to pull himself up on things, but not succeeding. I don't remember when Landen could do that, but Logan is only 5.5 months, so he is off to a good start. All this time has gone by so fast, I can't believe its already been so long, and he is already halfway to a year.
A couple of my friends are pregnant, and I am super excited for them, perhaps one of them will be one of my first births when Logan turns one, although she hasn't come out with her pregnancy yet. I am hoping that this one sticks. She is such a lovely mom and friend. :) Not interested in having my turn again for a while.
We hope to move within the next year, and will probably rent for a while. The 25,000 we used as a downpayment on this house is now gone, as the value of our house has dropped WAY below the purchase price. Ha, hard to imagine. So, we have quite an adventure ahead of us. I am looking forward to moving to where there are seasons, and mountains, and lakes, and hippies. LOL Right now the plan is for Asheville, NC, but we have considered a few other areas as well. (around here for a bit, Cape cod, or Kennesaw, GA).
And now here is where I end...

We did great

2009-03-24T15:53:00.000-07:00

At the assembly. Landen even napped~ Logan napped several times. He is such a mellow baby that I was able to sit and enjoy myself.
Today was a good day, Matt's parents were over, and it always makes life a little easier. They are leaving for the summer though, going back home to Maine, until the Fall. I will definitely miss their Tuesday visits.
This weekend my playgroup is having a big Spring Picnic, and I am helping organize it. I need to get my act together and see what I need to do. Ha.
So, I've been reading an old friend from High Schools blog, and enjoying her poetry. I used to write all the time, and I think I did ok.
I was thinking, that I need to do more for myself. I have been cooking, and enjoying trying new recipes. Perhaps the stresses of life will ease if I have a creative outlet.
Life isn't that stressful, yesterday was just one of those days, that were long, stressful, and it was rainy so we didn't play outside.

The boys are making me smile. Logan is laughing, cracking up. It's precious, to hear that. He is a happy smiley boy, and smiles at everyone who says hi to him. It was quite a hit at the assembly, he's a little entertainer.
Landen is a happy boy, loves to entertain too. Probably a toddler thing. When I was all dressed up for the day on Sunday, he said, OOOO la la! Sorry Lolo, I forgot to take a pic! He likes to make jokes, and well, like most boys, talk about poop. LOL. This is something we need to work on, b/c I think its funny, and of course, that only encourages him.

Did you notice?

2009-03-20T13:56:00.000-07:00

Not sure if you notice but my blog as changed.... I renamed it. And changed the page. What do you think?

Our first assembly with two

2009-03-20T13:51:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is our first assembly (it's a two day) with two kids. Yikes! Logan is a good boy, and will be easy. Landen is at that age where sitting still is a little easier, but not so much all day. He usually does good for the first hour and 15 minutes at the meeting.
We are also trying to sell our camry, and a guy wants to look at it tomorrow evening. So we will have to leave right away and head home. It's about an hour and a half drive.
I'm excited though, its going to be a good weekend. I have a new dress, and new shoes (that I have been wearing all week to prepare myself-ha!). It's not a nursing dress though, so I will have to just pop "ayah" out to nurse.
And now I am hungry, and will go make a yummy dinner. I love asparagus! mmmmm

Where's my baby?

2009-03-18T04:59:00.000-07:00

Who's boy is this?
On Saturday I decided Landen was in need on a change...well, I had been thinking that for a while, but I finally acted on it. I cut his hair. I wanted to give him a big boy hair cut. I am still getting used to it! He went from looking like a little boy, to a big boy!
Here is a before:
And an after:

Wow, huh? I am still getting used to it. I keep looking at him and thinking, he's sooo big!!!

Pictures! Pictures!

2009-03-12T11:59:00.000-07:00

From March2009

Logan.

From March2009

Pouty Landen.

From March2009

Family fun Day cake! Yummm

From March2009

Balloons

From March2009

Fireman!

From March2009

Daddy with Landen's
new clip on tale. Roar (Shhh, don't tell him I posted that!)

From March2009

Logan with his new ball. (I wasn't holding Logan up while he played with it but was behind spotting!)

From March2009

Logan's sweet smile. And behind him my pillows I got on Etsy.

From March2009

Landen playing in the leaves.

From March2009

Logan watching Landen play cars.

Welbilt abm 3900 breadmaker

2009-03-12T11:55:00.000-07:00

I received a used bread maker for family fun day. I was sooo thrilled, but very disappointed to see it came with no manual!!! I know right?
So I searched and searched the net, and couldn't find anyone online, every other bread maker, yes, but welbilt, no! I finally found someone who posted in 2005 that they had one, and posted their email offering to send the pdf if anyone wanted it. I tried to email, and today, a week later, recieved a response!!! AWESOME!!! I am thrilled.

So, I am posting this, b/c it will come in in a google search, and anyone else who is in search of the Welbilt Bread Maker 3900 manual, I now have the pdf. Just leave a message here, and I will email it! How do you like them apples? :)

Sweet boys

2009-03-12T11:43:00.000-07:00

My boys are so sweet. I think I am doing a great job with them. HAHA, ok, so they might be a little spoiled now and then, but they are gentle, loving, active, tough, creative. I guess this more applies towards Landen because he is old enough to express those things.
He loves to play with his baby brother. Today I had out the play mat and Landen always runs over and talks to him and shows him things. It's rather touching. He is gentle, and sweet. He tells him great job too! I just can't help thinking that he's learned to be this way from copying others he has seen act this way. (me, hubby, ect)
But then there is the point about him being a wuss. He is tough, he likes to wrestle, and keeps playing when he falls. His feelings get hurt when someone says, go away, don't play with me, but hey I say that's normal. I think he is doing ok, I am proud of him, and nah, he's not to wussy if you ask me. Heh.
Recently we had a family fun day, and had a LOVELY time. We got eachother gifts, and I made a yummy tasty strawberry cake with chocolate cream cheese frosting. We had baloons, and just a blast. It was great. We don't celebrate the holidays, and I want to make sure the kids always have something special for them to look forward to, and don't feel left out.
I am part of a playgroup that is mostly non-JW people, and the past few months have had several holiday playdates, which we of course skipped. Landen didn't miss out on it though, b/c he didn't know. It's been great for him to be with the kids though, especially as there really aren't many in our hall. (or any)
Logan is doing great. He is getting big. He is about 3.5 months old, I've already lost track of the weeks, nice huh? He STILL sleeps right through the night, and naps well during the day. He is patient. He actually can sit up a little by himself, rolls from back to tummy, but only the other way with a bit of encouragement. He is laughing, smiling, talking A LOT, just an all around happy baby. Whenever I get him laughing he gets the hiccups though.
We are still dealing with thrush issues. I tried the gentian violet, and then the stuff the dr. gave us. Time for something else I guess. One of these days I will test his blood sugar. His daddy is a diabetic and I read that frequent yeast infections is a sign of diabetes. Though I don't know if this one counts b/c he has had it since birth,and its never fully gone away.
Anyway, I will post pictures soon, I think Landen might be awaking. Thanks for reading.

It's naptime.

2009-02-27T10:51:00.000-08:00

It's naptime and all is quiet. It's usually a good 2-3 hours in our house lately. Now before you say you are jealous, Landen usually goes to bed around 10 lately and sleeps until 7 or 8, but not straight through! Logan on the other hand naps about 5 hours in the afternoon (he just finally fell asleep but in laws will be over soon, so no nap for me-and I REALLY need one), and sleeps through the night. He goes to bed around 9 and likes to sleep at least until 9. He wakes up briefly now and then to nurse, but b/c we co sleep, he falls back asleep pretty quick, as in, a couple minutes (though, I am usually asleep by then). He loves to snuggle his head up into my armpit, thank goodness I shower everynight before bed! LOL
It's been a while since I've updated. Although, I feel busy, we didn't do much during February. My aunt came for a visit, we had a nice time. I enjoyed having her here, and with her dog, it felt like a vacation. Landen was so easy to entertain, he just followed Primera everywhere. I seem to be growing more allergic to dogs with time, so a yucky feeling weekend, but I think we still all did great.
I've been to a couple playdates each week. Love getting out of the house.
Feeling good, (besides that I am sick right now, and super tired). Trying to get life, and finances in order, but apparently, so is all of the U.S., right?
I am wondering if I will take care of a toddler again for a while, but then not be able to go to playdates, b/c my vehicle only holds 2 carseats. I am looking forward to doula-ing once Logan is 1ish.

I wrote this like two weeks ago, so I will post it.. I was going to add to it, but I will start a new post.

Get the entertainment book for 1.25!!!! Free shipping!

2009-02-19T08:57:00.000-08:00

Ok, you all know I am a bargain hunter, and I found a good deal!
I am sure many of you have heard of or get the Entertainment book. It's
packed full of local coupons, for local museums (great explorations) and
restaraunts. It also has travel coupons, and GROCERY COUPONS!! In the
back they have one 5 dollar off coupon for each month of the year for
save a lot, I always use these at publix.
I found a way for you to get 15 dollars off the book, for a total of
1.25!!! (free shipping)

If you go to http://www.cashbaq.com/?refer=469895, and sign up, you get
a 5 dollar sign up bonus, and if you click on the Entertainment book,
you get a 10 dollar bonus, they send out checks of balances over 10
dollars around the 20th of each month. So go get your book, it will save
you money on a lot of great playdates (Even some of those places where
you go and prepare meals ahead of time!)

So go save some money, I already had one, but had to get this deal, and
will be getting a second. But hey, that's just 10 dollars I can save
each month instead of 5 on groceries!

New pictures and videos! Check them out!

2009-01-29T18:55:00.001-08:00

Aye, it's been a long week over here. I always look forward to weekends b/c Matt is home. It's been hard this week b/c Landen is sick. Runny nose, coughing, watery eyes, and a sore throat. I am getting it right now, though I never seen to get watery eyes, but dry eyes. Which is more annoying if you ask me.
Monday we went to a playdate at the park with our playgroup and there was a little girl who went despite having a cough. Every time she coughed in Landen's face I was annoyed she was there. Ok, and common sense says, a cold wouldn't have shown up that fast, (He started showing signs of being sick on Tues) but I wish that little girl wasn't there spreading her germs.
Tuesday Matt's parent's came over, and we just hung out, like usual. Which is nice. I got a couple loads of laundry folded and put away when grandma held Logan, and grandpa brought Landen for a long walk, which was great. I liked having the free hands. :)
I've been cooking a lot more, I guess nesting is finally kicking in! LOL Trying new recipes, and having fun. There is a mother that I know (somewhat) that amazes me. She has 4 kids, she homeschools them, has a menu for each week(really yummy, healthy meals too!), and really seems to have her act together. Haha, I would call her the perfect mother/wife, but knowing her, she would be to humble to accept such a statement. She is an Attachment Parenting parent (from my point of view), has a strong relationship with God (from what I can tell), and well, I would like to be more like her. I swear I'm not kissing butt, but, she's impressive. But, maybe there is something I do that impresses her? LOL
Here are some pictures and videos I'd like to share. Enjoy!
Short one of Landen singing, "wheels on the bus"

From My Pictures

Landen roaring:

From videos

Landen dancing

From videos

Logan chatting:

From My Pictures

And some pictures:

From My Pictures

Logan one day old at the hospital:

From My Pictures

Thanks for looking!

Say RACE CAR!!!!

2009-01-26T11:34:00.000-08:00

Say Race Car! Is what Landen said when he picked up my camera and pretended to take a picture of me today. (actually he did take a couple) I am FAR to lenient with my Rebel camera.
It was super cute though.
His new favorite saying is, "play toys with me" but it sounds like, play toys so fe. LOL I love it when he says it, and you just CAN'T say no to it!
Logan is smiling more and more, and is so cute and happy. He still sleeps A LOT and is super easy. I know I keep saying that but I just can't get over how good he sleeps. He loves to play "up and down" I lie him on a pillow and take his hands and say up, and lift him, and down, and let him down. He goes to a standing position when we do it. And smiles and smiles. It's just to cute. He actually lifts himself part of the way.
Oh, Landen is awake... more later!

Ebates

2009-01-24T19:30:00.000-08:00

Have you heard of Ebates? It's a rebate website for online purchases. It's really cool, they have all of the big stores, and many more,(they say over 900) and what I do is, if I want to make a purchase, I go to the website, and click the link, and then it brings me to the website, I then go and make a purchase like I would any other. I have made (or gotten back) about $80 since joining them. They send checks every 3 months, and it also works with coupon codes! They have some codes on their websites, but a lot of times I can also find them on other websites. It's one of the many ways I save money. :) WOO WEE!
So, go check it out, you get $5 for joining and making a purchase thru them.

CLICK HERE!!

Thanks

2009-01-22T06:32:00.000-08:00

Thanks for all the responses! Wow! In addition to the probiotics on my breast, I am going to go with the gentian violet, and I found directions on how to do that in Dr. Jack Newman's breastfeeding book, as well as one of my doula manuals. I have mixed reviews on whether I should treat Landen or not. That will be interesting at the Kingdom Hall tonight, two little ones with purple mouths. A kodak moment, yes? :)
I am waiting for a call back from my dr. about the gentian violet. Thanks again!!!

Irratated...

2009-01-21T19:21:00.000-08:00

When Logan was 1 week old he got a yeast infection on his bottom b/c I had antibiotics during labor. It appeared to my untrained eyes that he also had oral thrush. The dr. said it was just milk residue. I don't recall this with Landen, and its been a consistent thing all this time. (He is almost 8 weeks old) It's recently gotten worse, on his cheeks and lips, and I looked up pictures online, and it is in fact oral thrush. I'm irratated the dr. missed this, even after my suggesting it.
I put a little probiotics on my breast before he nursed, I don't know if that will do any good, but I will go to the dr. tomorrow. I'm not to impressed with him right now.
Is there a remedy for this without resorting to regular medications? Does the fact that he has this mean that I have an infection on my nipples even though I am seeing no symptoms? And Landen is still nursing, and he has not had signs?? Any thoughts? I've heard of rubbing grapefruit seed extract on my breasts...
Thanks!

Future flipz

2009-01-19T15:50:00.000-08:00

Logan is 7 weeks old already. He has been smiling regularly at people since last sunday (6 weeks), and yesterday daddy got his first smile. I got all teary eyed. Haha He is getting to be a big boy. With the cloth diapers being so bulky he is pretty much in a mix of 0/3 and 3/6 month clothes. Mostly the latter. We didn't move Landen to that size until he was 4 months, and Logan isn't even2. He doesn't look fat, just like an older baby. He's just my little chunk. :) He is a happy little boy.
Landen is adjust well to being a big brother. He is a funny little boy. The other day we went to a gymnastics gym and had open play. It was sooo fun. I have been selling old toys for a little extra cash, and we were able to make this playdate. There was so much to do, we are definetly going to make it a regular thing for us. We had such a blast. Landen is so active, he really needs an outlet like this to get that energy out. Of course, we are regulars to the park, which is free, but a change of scenery and pace is nice!

Now all during the week I think of sooo many things I want to post in my blog, o, Landen did that, its to funny, or Logan can do this now, so sweet, and then I sit down and draw a blank.
Here is a sweet picture of the two boys:

Landen has been singing a lot. He will be playing and singing the wheels on the bus go "round round round", ect. It's so sweet to hear him. He got out the book the other night and brought it over to Logan, and started singing it to him. He loves to teach him brother, he will go sit next to him, and point stuff out saying, that's a light. What does a dog say? Ruff! A car goes vrooom. Stuff like that. It's neat to see him interact with him. He has a doll, and pretended to nurse it the other day, and put it in Logan's swing, and carry it around by the head! LOL No we don't do that with Logan. :)
Matt's new hobby is making us all hand squeezed orange juice. His dad has a lot of orange trees and brings us bags and bags, and Matt makes gallons and gallons. It's actually really good too. :)

From today

2009-01-11T12:47:00.000-08:00

From today, ready for the meeting:

From Jan09

Landen was to grumpy to smile for the camera this morning.

Here are some cute tanden nursin pics from the other day, don't look if you mind seeing breast!!

From Jan09

(notice the foot in Landen's face)

Trying to catch up

2009-01-10T18:31:00.000-08:00

I haven't been on the computer that much lately, except quickly stopping by to read and email, or pop on facebook. It's a good thing though!
Here are some pictures:
This is from Nov, but I thought it was cute.

From randompicsnov08jan09

Dirty boy (all the other moms on the playground look at me like I am nuts for letting him play in the dirt, but I figure, hey, he's a boy!, its good for him!)

From randompicsnov08jan09

With his buddy Caiden.

From randompicsnov08jan09

Playing by grandma and grandpa Pepi's pool (heartattack) with the sunsetting on the canal in the background.

From randompicsnov08jan09

All 3 boys.

From Jan09

Another

From Jan09

Logan LOVES tummy time, and actually does a great job keeping his head up. Here is a cute one, his eyes are lightening, and I think will be green blue like mine.

From Jan09

From dec08-3

More pictures!

2008-12-30T14:43:00.000-08:00

Snugling.

Chillin' in his box. To cool for words.

Ok, I don't look to lovely, but I think this picture is sweet. I love it.

PICTURES!!!

2008-12-30T14:39:00.000-08:00

Brothers.

2008-12-28T20:20:00.000-08:00

Well, Logan is 4 weeks today! I weighed him with me, and he appears to be almost 12 lbs. WHOA BABY! He is still a great and easy going baby. He's snoozing away, and I am actually expecting a mid-night awakening tonight b/c he's slept ALL day. I tried to wake him several times this evening, but he just wasn't having it. He's such a sleepy head. He seems to be getting cuter. Maybe its just me? I will have to post a picture, but I am switching computers. Arg.
Matt has work every day this week. Great news, although this is the first time in about a month, and I will certainly miss having him home. There are those few moments when Landen is tired and trying to climb on me, and I am putting Logan to sleep that stress me a little. But, besides those times, all is well. I've been bringing the boys to the park a lot, its been in the 80s the past weeks, and for me, its easier to be out and about, and enjoying the outside, tiring Landen out for nap, and then getting one myself. Slacker, huh? Although, I have gotten several, are you nuts? How do you leave the house? It's certainly quite a task to get out with two.
Landen was getting in the shower last night, and said "the shower is stupid!" What? Yes, his daddy says stupid, and I knew one of these days Landen was going to pick up on it. I told him we don't say that word, its not a nice word, and then ignored it. He hasn't said it again since. (Although he did say it over and over the whole shower)
I will get around to posting some pictures later this week, I will. :) I just noticed I am almost to 100 posts this year, pretty cool! Let's see if I can keep up with it next year. Thanks for reading. :)

Totally in love

2008-12-22T15:40:00.001-08:00

With my boys. (all 3 of them) But specially the two little ones. I am so happy being a mom of two, and thrilled the transition has gone so smoothly. Even after today, when Landen didn't nap, which means I didn't nap, I am still loving it. We had a great time today doing arts and crafts. I asked Landen what he wanted to make, and he said a fish, so we made a fish. It's super cute, I will have to take a picture of it to share.
Logan is going thru a growth spurt, and nursed a ton today.
We stayed in, no park today, it was just a little chilly for me, in the morning it was high 50s, and I don't really have anything warm for Logs. (lowgs) Ha, it even makes me smile to think of his little nick name.
I am looking forward to his first smile, and when he starts to notice, and love his brother.
He is to funny, when Landen is nursing, Logan will look down, and kinda dive for the boob. LOL And bob around for the nipple, and Landen will just keep on nursing and ignore him. Other times he will do the same thing when he wants to nurse, and Landen isn't. Just dive down there. He's a smart boy. At night in our bed, he rolls over if he is to far from me to nurse.
Right now Landen is "petting" Logan and saying, "good dog".
I am amazed how easy it is to love another, and how I wondered it I would like explode, or what it would feel like, to love two so much, but I am still whole. If you have more than one you know what I am talking about, that transition, how much you love your first, and wondering if you could ever love two that much.
He is 3 weeks old yesterday, and I can't believe how fast it has gone by. He has really chunked up, not fat, and rolly like is cute in babies, but just solid, and getting bigger. He doesn't look like a newborn to me. He is probably almost 11 lbs.
We bought Landen a little people bus and he opened it (I wrapped it) last week, and loves it. He is growing up so much, and talking so much, and just becoming a big boy. I love to watch him learn, and see the world thru his eyes.
Matt's been working with a brother, picking up a few days here and there, and although the pay is not good, might work with him until something better comes along. It's something, right?
I offered to get a job working nights, but he doesn't want me to work. Eventually maybe I will take care of a toddler again, but not quite yet.
I will post some pictures shortly, right now Landen is climbing on me.

Having a doula

2008-12-18T14:10:00.001-08:00

is a great choice I made. Many people have said to me, but you are a doula, you know what to do, but when you are in that moment, its not so easy to stop and think, ok, breath, relax, one more contraction.
My doula was awesome. She is training to be a midwife, and she was in my DONA course for being a doula. When I took the course with her, I didn't get that much time to talk with her, but I felt an instant connection with her. When my original doula canceled (whom I didn't really connect with) it really turned out for the best when I called Kati, and was able to have her there for me.
Besides the awesome labor support, and love she gave me, she really helped me after to realize that I am an awesome mom, and to feel like I really did an awesome job during Logan's birth. If she is a midwife, and I am in FL when the the next one comes, I would love to have her, and hopefully our friendship will extend beyond births, and to family, and life.
I learned a lot from her as a doula too, and hope that I can be as supportive and uplifting as she was.
If you are pregnant, consider having a doula. No matter how many births you have had, they can help make a difference. :)
Sorry, end corny post. :)

Birth Announcement

2008-12-11T17:19:00.000-08:00

I scrapped this last night for a birth announcement. I think I will get it printed up on postcards and send them out. What do you think? I was trying not to make it to busy....there were some cute labels in the kit that said, adorable, precious, ect that I thought about putting under the pics....but I tend to scrap and make this busy... Should I add something like It's a boy! Or Tasha, Matt and Landen welcome....?

What are your thoughts?

more awwwwwwww...

2008-12-11T17:14:00.000-08:00

Snoozing in the moby.

Snoozing some more...

and yes, still sleeping, but the flash made him crinkle up his face, so he looked like a cute little old man. To funny not to share.

Landen playing "giddyup" with daddy.

AWWWWW..

2008-12-11T17:10:00.000-08:00

Modeling....

Thinking...

Landen with his new train table/set from Logan!

At the park yesterday, it was 83!!!! Logan in the new Moby, I have every wrap ever made,(ring sling, hotsling, ergo-which I like for a bigger baby, infantino, and many more) and I have a newborn favorite. :)

Landen meets his bro

2008-12-06T12:42:00.000-08:00

About time..

2008-11-27T11:39:00.000-08:00

I give an update. :)
My 36 week appt. Cervix closed, 50% effaced. Measuring 36 cm.
My 38 week appt Closed, 50% (no progress) measuring 41 cm (what?) So dr. says, come back Monday (a couple days ago) for an u/s. It appears we have a big baby, and he is measuring like 10 lbs 1 oz. He wants to do a c/s. I say nope, I want a vaginal delivery, tell him my feelings he decides to check my. I am 3 cm and 75% yay to progress. He "measures"my hips and agrees to wait until Friday (tomorrow) to let Logan come on his own. After that he wants to induce if I still want a vaginal birth, I say we will discuss it Friday, quite confident that I will have gone by then.
This week, contractions off and on. By on I mean, regular, "real" contractions that come every 3-7 minutes for several hours, some I have to stop and focus to get thru, but usually fizzles out after 6 hours of that. Since Tue. PM losing mucous plug everytime I go to the bathroom in good amounts, I'm suprised there is anything left. Most recently its blood tinged. I feel ready, I can't imagine my cervix hasn't progressed with all the walking, Evening primrose oil, and contractions.
But, now its Thursday, and dr. wants to induce tomorrow,and I am getting stressed. I REALLY don't want to be induced. I am ready to meet this little guy, and would like to have him and be home, we have family/company arriving for on Monday. LOL I can't imagine its much longer, but I guess no one knows for sure right?

Theres been other crazy stuff going on, that I won't get into, but for now we are all settled, and trying to get the house organized. We have a lot of stuff, and not much space.

So, lets hope he comes soon!

Just like mommy!

2008-11-09T19:24:00.000-08:00

Landen put on my flip flops and put something in his shirt, and he said I'm mommy! And he said there is a baby in there!

At the beach.

He wanted to dance, so he grabbed his daddy's phone which plays music. This was right after a song started. Such a cutie!

Playdate

2008-11-04T19:14:00.000-08:00

We had a fun playdate Monday at a friend's house. Here are some pictures of the kids playing in the crib towards the end of the morning. Aren't they cute?

Funny video

2008-11-02T15:12:00.000-08:00

This is a mom of 3, and comedian. This video is about her experience breastfeeding and pumping. I thought it was very funny. :)

Some pictures.

2008-10-30T14:14:00.000-07:00

Cute stuff!

Practicing his Kingdom Melodies.

Can you resist this face? (at the dr's office today)

Look at those big brown eyes! (That's a moose on his shirt, not a reindeer.) :)

Some videos

2008-10-30T14:08:00.000-07:00

You have to watch to the end to see how wonderful our little boy is. :)

From oct2008

Landen and Lola:

From oct2008

Playing with Daddy!

From oct2008

35 week appt

2008-10-30T12:18:00.000-07:00

Went well. Blood pressure 96/6o something, baby's heartbeat around 140, no UTI (I thought I might have one) fundal height 34 cm, and gained 4 lbs since 2.5 weeks ago (chubby chubby).

Then I went to the chiro, I have some Symphisis Pubic Dysfunction (pardon the spelling), also known as SPD, and I am having pain, lifting my legs, walking, turning in bed is torture. She adjusts my pubic bone, which helps sooooo much, but today it was so painful I almost cried a couple times. I feel like I should be super preggo mom, but that's not happening so much this time around.

I still have a ways to go before the end, but I am already feeling ready now.

Landen has been doing great, the weather has cooled down a lot so we've spent a lot of time at the park, and out and about.

My last post about the cloth diapers was actually also an entry in a contest to win 12 diapers, but I didn't. :( Boohoo. :)

Cloth diapers!

2008-10-28T11:17:00.000-07:00

We order our first set of cloth diapers from Kellyscloset.com last week. It was hard to spend that much money for 12 diapers, but it will be totally worth it. I also ordered some homemade cloth wipes as my sewing machine is in storage. Here is a cloth diapering blog, check it out.

I will order my next set of 12 diapers, when we get our next paycheck. I was hoping for more than 24, but they are 203 dollars for that many. (I do get a discount for buying over a certain amount, and had a coupon code for 5% off.)

cutie batootie

2008-10-18T16:50:00.000-07:00

Fire station open house!

2008-10-18T16:47:00.000-07:00

We had a rough night last night so we slept late and had to cancel our plans. Lucky for us right around the corner there was a fire station open house, with helecopters, fire trucks, ambulences, ect. We had a great time, but I didn't get a lot of pics. Here he is in the fire truck, but not very interested to be in it. But if you looks closely (or maybe not even that closely) you can see where his hair got hacked. Little stinker. He still is cute. I took his amber necklace off today b/c I didn't want anyone to think he's a girl! If you have a suggestion on how to fix it (with out chopping off to much more). Anyway, here he is.

His first lollipop.

Riding his bike. It's a diego bike, and he kinda knows Dora. When Lola is here, he watches it when I go to put her down for a nap (for like 10 minutes), but he calls Dora, and this bike, "pack pack" as in back pack.

Another pre hair cut picture...

2008-10-18T11:29:00.000-07:00

That was to cute not to share. :)

Oh no! I ruined it!

2008-10-17T19:20:00.000-07:00

Landen's hair that is. I gave him a hair cut tonight, and I don't have an after picture, but below is the before. Look how cute it is! I love long hair on little boys! I trimmed the back fine, but he wouldn't sit still for the front, so the sides of the front look CRAZY. I am so frustrated, he was being such a boogar! He said OW OW OW, and I wasn't even touching him! LOL I have to laugh, right? I am not sure what I am going to do, get someone to fix it, let it grow out a little and try again, or try to fix it myself a little. But just see how sweet he is with the long hair!

Giving lovin's to baby Logan. Look how WHITE my belly is! I was telling him he'd be sharing "AYAH" with Logan and he said "No, he sits in the chair" pointing to the high chair. Then I explained that babies can't sit or eat, they only drink ayah, and he said, ok, and seemed content. Here he is playing with Logan, and giving him hugs. That's Lola finishing her bottle before a diaper change. And pardon my appearance, I wasn't feeling so hot.

Pumpkin Patch

2008-10-17T11:55:00.000-07:00

It was hot, look at those rosy cheeks!

Running over the "speed bump".

"BIG PUMPKIN"

An attempt to get him to pose.

33 week appt.

2008-10-13T12:03:00.000-07:00

Went great. I lost a pound, my bp was 120/70, my fundal height was 33, and baby's heart was great. Landen came and was very interested in what they were doing. I didn't have to wait for the dr., he came in while the nurse was still doing the heart beat (which was why I didn't ask what it was). In and out, in like 5 minutes.
We spent like 2 hours at the park climbing and running around. Landen had a great time, and I am glad that the weather is finally park weather again, and still look forward to an additional cool down. I think it was 85ish.
7 weeks to go!

2008-10-11T18:07:00.000-07:00

Landen looks like such a big boy in this picture!

Special delivery!

I'm flying!!

Little Lola (the girl I take care of during the week).

At the beach.

2008-10-11T17:58:00.000-07:00

At the beach, I love this picture, I wish the sun wasn't right on it, I will have to see if someone can fix that for me.

On Grandpa's shoulders, holding the kite.

Here I am, 32 weeks pregnant, white and chubby.

Landen chasing the kites tail.

Picture this:

2008-10-11T17:39:00.000-07:00

At the beach this evening, we went to a part of the beach that had a lagoon area (it never had before?) and right before where we put our stuff, there was like a 3 foot drop, with 3 feet of water. I saw it, and thought, I won't be able to look away for a second.

I finally sat down, Landen was making castles with Grandpa, and he stopped for a moment to help Matt with the kite, I turned and Landen is a foot or so away from the ledge, you've never seen a preggo get up and run that fast. The whole way I was running up hill, thru the sand, trying to grab Landen before he fell. He stopped to look at me as I called after him. And I fell, hard, my leg is all bruised, right in front of him. At that moment I was embarrassed, angry, scared, relieved and shed a few tears. It was scary to picture him falling in the water like that.

It was probably quite a sight, as I barely ran/remained upright, trying to make it to him.

Anyway, we are all ok. :) (Although my groin is pulled, and my leg bruised, I should be able to walk tomorrow.)

this week...

2008-10-09T05:58:00.000-07:00

We've been busy. Last Thursday I got really sick, I started vomiting uncontrollably, I've always had a problem that I just can't stop once I reach 3 times. So I started doing it every 10 minutes, and it turned to blood. YIKES! I called the dr b/c it was giving me little contractions, and I just wanted to hear his thoughts, he said I could go to the hospital and get an anti nausea medication and fluids if it didn't stop and I said, ok, he doesn't seem worried, I will just wait it out, but then the blood started, and Matt and I agreed it would be a good idea to go to the hospital. I got there, and Matt called and said Landen awoke throwing up. Poor baby. I felt so bad I wasn't there, and I was just checking into the hospital, and I wanted to go home to take care of him. Not that Matt couldn't, just that I felt like I should. Anyway, I got medication, and managed to stop throwing up enough to go home, fluids, rehydration and not moving continued the next day. It was horrible. Landen had only thrown up 4/5 times in a two hour interval and went back to sleep. I had a hard time rehydrating, lost 5 lbs (all water) and just hurt so much. Matt helped a lot, and I was so glad he didn't get it. He got it Friday night, only threw up 2 times, and our friends from the hall, one family whom we'd have over for dinner the night I got it, got it too, but not as bad as I did, thank goodness. So that was certainly an adventure.
We had a congregation picnic Saturday, and that was fun. Landen and I went, and stayed a short time (2 hours) b/c I started having bad round ligament pains (that ceased as soon as I left of course) but it was a lot to be chasing Landen, it was 91, and I was uncomfortable. :)
Jeff and Maryann, Matt's parents came over Monday and hung out. We had a good time, and Landen just loves Jeff. As soon as he walks in the door, he is like, TRUCKS!!!! C'MON!!
He officially knows all his letters, (although W, sounds similar to blue) the sounds (me-what sounds does b make? Landen- buh!) He is now interested in trying to sound out works, or reading every lettere he sees every where we go. HAHA. Yesterday he went up to a silverado, and spelt it, and then said ssssiltruck! As though reading it.
Tuesday Jeff and Maryann came over for dinner. We had pizza, and they spent that time to see Matt (they hadn't seen him yet) and just hang out talking to him, and about his work.
I put an ad on Craigslist for him for electrical, and he's gotten a lot of calls, now he just has to learn to say no! He's been busy on non meeting days doing side work. We really need the money, and I was tryingto find a way to make a little more before the baby comes, but I miss him when he works so much.
Yesterday we had Lola, and just played at home. We had a good time, and took nice long naps all around. I slacked and made fish sticks and green beans for dinner, which were a hit with Landen. Landen and I went out for ice cream, and met up with Matt there at 7. We just needed to get out of the house, and I went to where Matt was working (near there rather). I got Landen rainbow sherbert as we have been learning about rainbows a little this past week, and he was very excited He doesn't really ever eat ice cream, we don't eat it (ok I do now and then with a brownie, or something chocolate, but when do I even have that?) So it was a special occasion. I had a kid cone too, and got cookies n cream.
Right now he is walking around with a lego on each finger. I think we will go to the park this morning. Boring stuff.
I meet my doula tonight though! I'm excited about that!!! I'll let you know how it goes.
Thanks for reading my ramblings!

S-T-O-P

2008-09-28T04:49:00.000-07:00

We found Landen a car/truck bedroom set on craigslist for 40 bucks, it has a bed set, two rugs, and 5 framed pictures. Very cute.
Yesterday he was standing over the rug, and reading it, S, T, O, P. He always does this though, but then he sounded it out, SSS, Tuh, aww, puh (sorry I don't know how to spell the sounds properly, but you get the idea), and again, closer together,and you could hear the word perfectly, and then he says sssstuhawwpuh, LANDEN!!!! (As though he read th word Landen, not stop)
Matt and I were cracking up b/c we listened to him sound it out, and put it together like we do with him, and we looked at eachother, like, wow! and then he says "DANDEN" (how he says his name, even though he says L's perfectly) and we just laughed so hard.

Some recent pictures!

2008-09-26T11:53:00.000-07:00

Landen at the beach with his giant rock.
Looking cute.
Snazzy 3D glasses!
At the Lowry Park Zoo, I love these pics, and his face!

So much better...

2008-09-26T10:32:00.000-07:00

How I feel about things right now.
I haven't posted in a bit so I guess I should backtrack a little.
Nightweaning, yeah, no. We tried it, the first night it went rather well b/c he hadn't taken a nap, and he was to tired to resist, the second night he lost his voice crying, and woking up every 20ish minutes thru the night crying for "ayah" (breast), even crying for it in his sleep! That broke my heart, and the next day he would not leave my side, or my breast. It was hard on him, and it made me feel that he just wasn't ready for it. I have spent lots of love and time teaching him that mommy will be there if he needs me, and then I don't come. He wouldn't let Matt rock him to sleep, even in the night anymore, before he would at night, and so I decided, with Matt's support, that this wasn't for us. I went on a forum and found some moms who tandem nurse, and they all shared positive experiences. From the start I think the main reason I wanted to wean him was b/c I felt like I was supposed to, and that it would be to hard, sooooo many people said it would be hard, but the moms told me jealously was less, if not non existant with the tandem nursing. I know it will be hard on me the first few weeks, and I will have to teach Landen to wait, but hey, that's my choice.
Thanks for the support, and if you don't agree with my choice, thanks for keeping it to yourself (hint hint). I was ready to stop nursing, b/c of Landen's twiddling, but not if he's not ready.

I am 30 weeks now. Here's a picture:

From 922-25

Landen was a kicker, Logan is a stretcher, and sometimes I wonder if he will rip his way out of my stomach trying to completely stretch his whole body. I feel great minus the super achy hips. I got a maternity support, and that really helps, but I keep it in the car and wear it when I am out and about, its not comfortable to sit in. Last night Matt was laughing and watching amazed at my belly which was going several ways at once, and seeing a hand/elbow/knee/whatever stick out from both sides at once. This one wakes me in the night. I'm loving it by the way.
As for my births(for my doula training), well, the woman who taught my class and promised to call me for a birth each weekend, so I could get them in quick before Logan arrives, never called, and now I am getting to close to it being very uncomfortable to be a support for long hours. I am thinking I might end up waiting until Logan is done nursing which I really wanted to avoid, or at least not dependent on the breast, to get the births in. Frustrating.
Landen is doing great otherwise, learning lots of letters, colors, I've been working on a big project for him, and we have been doing fun crafts, and learning things every day. He really likes that.
The weather has finally cooled down some it seems all of a sudden. It's been not humid, and about 86 the past weeek. This morning we took a long walk around the neighborhood, and enjoyed the cool morning (maybe 75-78?) I am looking forward to opening the windows (altho the man who lives below us hurt his back and will be home for the next 6 weeks, and he smokes ALL DAY).
That's all for now...will post pics, thanks for reading!

Nightweaning...

2008-09-10T17:26:00.000-07:00

I can't begin to describe my feelings on this right now. As Landen approached 2, I decided I would wean him b/c I thought it would be hard nursing too, especially b/c he is so dependent on "Ayah" at night. When my pregnancy was high risk for that short time, I was told I had to do it right away, then it seemed, it wasn't as bad as they thought, and it wasn't such an emergency. My OB still says I should, but I think that is his feeling about nursing during pregnancy, rather than anything else. Then Landen got sick and sick and sick, and he just needed to breast. We tried one night to stop it, but he was so tired, and got so upset I couldn't do it. It broke our hearts.
So, here I sit, tonight, out in the car, as we make another attempt to wean him. I don't feel good about it. In fact, when I told him earlier, I cried. It's a special connection we have had for so long, and I do feel that its a need still in some ways. But I also feel that he needs to learn to put him self to sleep. Even if we are rocking him, for him to do it without the breast would be a good thing. I don't know what will happen to naptimes, I guess they will be out b/c I won't be able to nurse him!
Perhaps at night he will sleep better (he does sleep in his own bed) if he isn't waking for the breast out of habit? I think we have a long couple? of nights ahead of us, getting him to sleep properly.
I even thought to myself, I should have brought the monitor out, then I would know how he is doing, but that would torture me, hearing him cry for me, not being able to help him. He is EXHAUSTED b/c he didn't nap today, probably the second time ever. He was tugging and pulling on my nipples with his free hand as I tried to put him down, and I just couldn't dig it. LOL I asked him to stop, told him not to hurt Ayah, and then finally said, if you don't stop there will be no more ayah, ok? He said, uh huh, but continued. I made sure I told him several times, but I'm not sure he really understood.
Nursing two wouldn't be so bad really, I'm just worried about the nights, and the jealousy. If I have two boys waking at night for breast, I would never sleep. But if it comes down to that, its been done before, and, hey, I lose my fatty weight quicker right?
I am not sitting here changing my mind, giving in, I am just saying, if its to hard for him, I won't do it. I will try in 6 months or whatever. Or a year. But when I am in the hospital, or doing births this months, he is going to have to go to sleep somehow.
So just send me hugs. I should be writing a talk right now, that I got for tomorrow night last night. I am just to sad right now.

What we've been up to.

2008-08-31T13:57:00.000-07:00

Last weekend we went to the convention in Orlando. It was a rough weekend, Landen and Matt had a cold, and I had two sick boys to take care of. :) One night we went to downtown disney, and had some fun eating dinner out and walking around. It was hard to get much out of the parts because Landen didn't sit as good as usual being sick.
And yes, his sickness is a theme this week, he got a high fever Thursday night, and I assumed it was Roseola again, Friday I noticed his eye was puffy, but just assumed it was leftover from the bites last weekend, but then Saturday he got up, soooo sick, and his eye swollen shut. He was so sick, his fever wouldn't go down, his eye kept getting bigger, and he just didn't want to walk. He would shake when we put him down to stand. He's not been that sick before, he sat in my lap and cried and nursed and slept all day (and then was up all night) He didn't want to play. I missed him by the end of the day.
He is finally feeling better today, still lowgrade fever, and swollen eye, but better, playing. Not much eating, but plenty of nursing (ouch).
For me, this was supposed to be my first weekend on call for births but I called Rayna and told her next weekend when I saw how sick Landen was. I was really looking forward to it! I did get one client due the end of October, but she seems not very motivated to meet up, and I will be 36 weeks then, so as it gets closer, I am thinking its not going to happen. I would love to have an established relationship with a client before she gives birth, and although we have kept contact somewhat by email, I am dissapointed. So I will try to get my births all from Rayna this month. My back has been an issue, after a long day, it aches, so I ordered a maternity support. That should be here on Tuesday, and I am looking forward to seeing what difference it makes.
The ultrasound went great, I am a go for a vaginal birth now, and besides him being a chubber, everything looks good so far. :D I can't complain. I trust my body, and know I can push out this big boy on my own.
Landen is going thru a learning spurt. He was never much into books, but as soon as he turned two, he wasts to read all the time, knows over 50% of his letters by site, loves to write them, loves to count, wants to learn, learn, learn. I am excited b/c I was looking forward to this stage, but didn't think it would come so soon. He is a smart boy, but his own boy. He is testing us lately, seeing how far he can go doing, being fresh. I am getting more excited for him to have a little brother, and for watching them play together. We've been wanting to get him a train table and found one for free on freecycle.
We are also trying to cut back on spending. Somehow we got to spending a lot more than we have. That is actually a big focus right now, but lucky for us, we've never been ones to fight over money. It doesn't help that Matt's boss has had so little work lately, and I think for the past month has only worked 4 day weeks. That one extra day makes a difference. He got his liscense in July, or at least passed, and we are still trying to get the actual liscense from the county. His boss is supposed to give him a couple dollar raise, and that would make a big difference. It's just so frustrating when its out of our hands.
I have been looking for ways to make money. I take care of Lola, I am working on getting being a notary public, so I can try to do on call work. I also started working for Chacha. They are a work from home bussiness, and you can log on any time, for whatever time intervals you want, and customers text questions from their phone and I answer them. It's fun, and even a little educational. If you are interested, go sign up, you have to pasts some tests to work for them, but its fun. You need a referral, you can use my email, tuddleme@hotmail.com.

That's it. Busy busy. :D
Thanks for reading.

more pictures

2008-08-28T18:07:00.000-07:00

My happy boy!

Riding his new (used) bike. Love his hair! :D

At the children's museum playing in the water.

Elmo undies!

2008-08-28T18:01:00.000-07:00

He just looks too cute!

Just like a big boy!

Napping with daddy!

Disney part 2

2008-08-28T17:57:00.000-07:00

He's not to impressed by this guy...

Sitting on a lego dog (ignore the sign in the backround about not letting children climb on the statues, we did) :)

And he got 3 bad spider bites. This was when we were back home, he fell asleep on my laundry pile. At one point his whole left eye was almost swollen shut. ICK.
I am posting these in sets of 3, b/c that is all Picasa will let me do, I tried to do a big upload from Blogger directly and it takes forever, and I am just not very patient. I suppose I can add pics after...

Disney

2008-08-28T17:50:00.000-07:00

Well, Disney for the cheap. LOL This is just downtown disney, with the shops, and places to eat. Landen had a great time though. He really liked Minni and Mickey! (no posing there, he was just so excited to see and talkt to them! LOL)

My favorite picture ever!

2008-08-28T17:42:00.000-07:00

O, I love this picture! He is soooooo cute in his daddy's Red Sox hat!!!!

On his new (used) battery operated bike. Pretty cool! (I love his long hair)

Landen's first marshmallow!

2008-08-28T17:37:00.000-07:00

Yummmmm! We made rice krispie treats after he sampled that!

Logan's 4d u/s pics

2008-08-28T17:10:00.000-07:00

We went for our ultrasound today, and it all went well. He is measuring in the 62% and is about 2lbs 2 oz right now. Landen measured about that when he was born so we are probably going to have another big boy. (Landen was 8lbs 5oz.) I think he looks like Landen in these pics. These were taken my my regular ob/gyn during a regular appt, and he was kind enough to take some time to get us some pictures. In the pictures, you may be able to see his face is pressed up against the placenta, so he spent quite a bit of time trying to find a clear image. He is very nice.
While we were in the waiting room Landen fell and cut his lip, and was bleeding everywhere, the dr came out, and checked Landen, and tried to find us some ice (the nurses ignored us). I was touched that he came out to see if we were ok. (without our asking)

My son is nuts.

2008-08-15T08:02:00.000-07:00

Wouldn't go to bed last night until 11:30, slept until 12:30 and got up, and wouldn't go back to sleep. Not until 7 am! I hadn't fallen asleep yet when he woke up, so I got to take a little nap at 7, but Lola comes over at 9. He is now, still, happily snoozing. Of course, when he awakes, Lola will be ready for her nap. *sigh*
So, yeah, my son is nuts.

I guess we won't be potty training...

2008-08-14T20:49:00.000-07:00

So, let me tell you what we have done with our Landen potty adventures. When he was 8 months old, I tried putting him on the potty and he went, and would regularly go on the potty until he was one. Then we went on vacation to cape cod for 2 weeks, followed by the convention for a weekend and then me going to NC (with Landen) for another 2 weeks, and well, between it all, not wanting to use public bathrooms, and me being lazy when we returned, we just got out of the habit.
Fast forward to present...Landen has had no interest, and sometimes will fuss when we suggest it. He's a boy, and just turned 2 so I wasn't in a rush. Well, last week he started bringing us his diapers and asking for a new one, getting out the changing pad, and saying Diaper please. I said, I guess he's ready, gotta get started. Then comes today, apparently the week I took in thinking about it was too long b/c all day Landen has asked for the potty when he needed to go. Just like that. Now, I don't know if this is a fun game type of thing, but besides the poopy, no dirty diapers today. At the kingdom hall this evening he started shouting, POTTY POTTY POTTY, I want to go POTTY. I thought he was saying play, and I was like shhhhhh. Then I finally took him into the lobby to hush him and he pointed at the bathroom. Wow, even on the go, huh?
So, I must say, if he's ready, that's awesome. Let's hope he keeps it up!

My DONA course...

2008-08-13T10:01:00.000-07:00

Went sooooo well! I am absolutely thrilled. My teacher was great, and made a very relaxed atmosphere in her home. It wasn't like a lecture, she kept us very involved. My favorite part (and least favorite part) was the roll playing. It was fun to watch, and laugh, and I really felt like I benefited from it. I kept trying to think in my head, what should I do? But the second time around, I just did what I would do by instinct, and it worked well with my "birthing" mother. It was my least favorite part b/c I was nervous about it.
After the weekend I feel....empowered to do my first birth, I feel like I know how to put things to use that I've read so much about, and I will be able to help a mother.
My teacher, Rayna, said that she could get my some weekend births, in September, so I can get my births in before Logey Dogey comes along. I'm excited.
Lola just went down for a nap, and when I put her down, I always put on a little movie for Landen and give him a popsicle. He is watching Word World. It seems a little old, in terms of letters, but he really likes letters, I think I should start working on that (low key like) with him. We've been working on our colors lately, and he is really into that. Anyway, she is happy today, so I am happy. Landen is happy too. He finally slept good last night after about a week of horrible sleeping. I am thrilled.
Braxton Hick......
I want a cookie. Chocolate chip, gooey and warm.
Thursday I have a chiropractor appt, and then straight to the OB/GYN. Why these are on a thursday night, so late, before a meeting, is beyond me. I have no idea what I was thinking. I think I will go to the Chiro in meeting clothes at 5, straight to the OB at 6:15, and then straight to the Kingdom Hall for a 7:30 meeting.
So I don't have Lola next Mon-Thurs, but she said she is bringing her Friday, but of course, Friday I will be at the convention, so that's not going to happen. It seems as though we are going to have another whole week off. ARG. It's hard financially, and b/c Lola gets all out of wack, she is starting to get used to being here again, and its oging to be another week off.
I really am rambling.
Landen is doing good, and talking more and more. I say that all the time, but really its just so neat to watch.
We registered at Target for some things for Logan. Stoller, bumbo (Gonna try it this time), and we need towels, blankets, and I might even eventually try a pacifier? maybe.... We'll see. I don't think I will be getting a shower, but if someone decides to get us something, at least it will be something we need. Maybe a few warmer outfits b/c Landen was born in August, and Logan will be December. Not that Florida in the winter is freezing, but it gets cold! We also need to purchase some cloth diapers. That's not much! So I haven't rally spent much time thinking about it. Easy Peasy.
So, I will keep you posted on my births, and maybe share an anonomous birth story.
Ready for a nap!
Tata!

Landen is yelling....

2008-08-08T11:55:00.000-07:00

buh bye! buh bye! buh bye! Over and over to the dump truck. It comes every Monday and Friday, and he always runs out to the porch to watch and greet it.

GOOF!

I am a prioress...

2008-08-08T04:52:00.001-07:00

Your result for The Who Would You Be in 1400 AD Test...

The Prioress

You scored 11% Cardinal, 62% Monk, 62% Lady, and 30% Knight!

You are a moral person and are also highly intellectual. You like your solitude but are also kind and helpful to those around you. Guided by a belief in the goodness of mankind you will likely be christened a saint after your life is over.

You scored high as both the Lady and the Monk. You can try again to get a more precise description of either the Monk or the lady, or you can be happy that you're an individual.

Take The Who Would You Be in 1400 AD Test at HelloQuizzy

DONA, this weekend!!

2008-08-05T18:28:00.000-07:00

I am doing my workshop with DONA this weekend! I am really excited. It will be the first time I have been away from Landen for over an hour, which I suppose is a little hard. But he will be with his daddy, and I will still be here for bed time.
Its Sat, and Sun from 8-4, and its about an hour drive away. I am looking forward to some visual training. I did my doula training originally with Childbirth International, which I really enjoyed, but I always wanted to do Dona, and now I am going to try to get it done before Logan (yes, Logan, that's his name) comes along. I need 3 births, I have one client due at the end of October now, and I contacted a teen mother help place for the other 2, which I will feel good about. :D
Lola was back today after about 2 weeks without her. I think we need to adjust again, b/c today was a little hard for her (and I think she is teething). We went to the spray grounds, water park with Tausha (a local sister) and her girls. It was fun, and it was nice to be out in the sun.
For dinner, I made rotini with sauce and meatballs, and brocolli,and I am sharing it b/c it hit the spot, and I wanted to keep eating!
And tonight, my sciatic nerve is pinched, and I am hoping to go see my awesome Chiro on Thursday, yay for medicaid.
Landen is doing great sleeping thru the night, I just need to wean him, but there is always a reason to wait. (I don't want to do it during my training, I am worried he is going to really want it when I get home) I am so ready though!!!
Goodnight!

He's two!

2008-08-05T17:22:00.000-07:00

His first fudgicle!
In mama's shoes (and unmatching pjs-Leaping Kids is our playgroup! )
snoozin...
Art! (Landen always is asking for arts n crafts)
BOO!

Yay! Landen is two today! It really feels like I just had a newborn, that I was just pregnant with him, and now he is two. I think he is turning out pretty good! :D
I don't have a favorite age. I love them all. He was such a good baby, always happy. He is turning into a real boy, always climbing, running, playing with trucks and balls. I love to watch him learn and see the world thru his eyes every day.
You learn a lot about yourself, and things you do when you watch a toddler who watches you. He says things like, o man! and o my goodness. I was choking the other day, and he said, are you ok? I laughed, that he would ask something like that. Today Lola was crying, and she was ok, there was nothing wrong, and Landen says, Lola, you're ok. B/c I say that to her when I am comforting her. It amazes me that he is so perceptive. Hopefully he doesn't pick up on dad's "crap".
Also, we've been nursing for 2 years! Yay!

Seriously? Roseola AGAIN!

2008-07-27T23:01:00.000-07:00

Yes, I know I've posted a similar topic before. But Landen had a 101.5 fever today, but acted fine, so I just gave him a half dose of motrin and it brought it down. Tonight he woke up from sleep, shivering, with 103.
Now, this is probably time number 9 that he has had this. The ped. told me a while back that its rare to get it more than once, but at the same time he never tested to see if its exactly the roseola virus. He said it could be something else that presents itself that way (fever for about 5+ days-in our case, rash for 2). His fevers are worse at night, and there are not really any other signs that he isn't feeling feel, except maybe a little fussy. So, when I bring him to the ped. we have no choice but to check his urine, then send him for bloodwork, and everything comes back fine, and by that time, its gone, and the rash has appeared. So, after maybe 4 times of bugging the dr. with this, I decided that I would just take care of it myself. I, of course, watch for other symptoms, but really none come. The ped. always recommends that I rotate motrin and tylenol every 3 hours. I do at night, but during the day, I just play it by ear, or by temp rather.
They say its contagious only when they have a fever, tho, and I respect that, and other parents, but at the same time, the times he has been around those other kids with this, they never got it.
My first thought this time was, uh! I'm pregnant! I looked it up, and if the mother has never had it, or come into contact with it/developed an immunity, then there is a slight chance (very slight) of miscarriage during the first trimester, and congenital defects later on. B/c Landen has had this so many times, I'm not really concerned that I haven't developed an immunity to it, but I think I will give a call to my Ob tomorrow just for kicks. :)
Right now, at 2 am, Landen requested a popsicle. (I made-half juice half water) It appears the motrin wound him up, and I couldn't get him back asleep. Hopefully the pop will help with the temp. (I also did a luke warm shower).
B/c I have that live feed, I saw that many people have done a google search, and came to my last post of Roseola again, and that was not at all informative, so I hope that I have helped some who are in a similar situation.
Now, lets hope we get some sleep and feel better soon.

Did you have a favorite sling?

2008-07-27T16:50:00.001-07:00

With Landen I used a ring sling wrap, which I liked, but didn't love-it often got twisted, and when he got bigger we used an ergo carrier, which is great. I bought a home made mei tei, but it was big and thick, and awkward. I think I'd like a hotsling...

I'd like a new wrap/sling/carrier to carry little one in, and was checking out this site to find one. They are having a contest, so go enter.
"Win the Essential Babywearing Stash from Along for the Ride (one Beco Butterfly, one Hotsling baby pouch, one BabyHawk Mei Tai, one Zolowear Ring Sling, and one Gypsy Mama Wrap)"

And let me know if you have a favorite from your babies newborn days. :)

A feather boa for me.

2008-07-25T15:16:00.000-07:00

I can't think of many toys that was hard sought when I was a child, but I was a girls girl, and had to have a pink feather boa. I remember going to the store that had it, and every time we went I would beg for it, try it on and walk around in it. I thought I was the prettiest girl in it, and what little girl doesn't want to be just that. Now looking back at the video of that christmas (I wasn't a JW then) and I open the box (which also contained a wrap around ballet skirt, and some makeup) and shouted, "How'd you know I wanted this?" That was a perfect present.
For Landen, I seem to be obsessed with toys. We want him to have a great toy, the one he loves, and can always use, so the quest never seems to end. :) Right now, we are considering a train table (and set). But what is the perfect toy?
So I am entering another blog contest, although I have never one anything (I try!!) maybe this will be the time. Though apparently Manda (a friend) always wins, so don't tell her about this contest and I might have a chance. I got an email from the Parents Blogger Network about this contest and couldn't resist. They have teamed up with Hasbro for the Hot summer Toy event and are giving away some cool toys. Wish me luck!

Apparently...

2008-07-25T09:18:00.001-07:00

I say "ah man" often b/c Landen has started saying that if he falls or something. Good thing I don't swear!!

u/s

2008-07-24T17:01:00.000-07:00

We had an u/s on Tuesday the 15th, and it went really great. The fluid appeared normal, the placenta was almost 2 cm from the OS!! (so not covering the cervix) and everything else looked good. The dr. said he would deliver me at least 3 cm away, and I trust it will move a lot more than by 18 weeks from now. :D The number 2 in the picture below is one of the measurements of the distance there, do you see the placenta?
I had a few sips of dr. pepper before, and I never drink soda/caffeine, and boy was he hyper!!!! He was moving a mile a minute, and I am soooo not exaggerating. :D

The colored part is the cord :DHis head is the circle on the left, and if you look closely you can see the lense in his eye! :D

Back from the OB

2008-07-14T14:21:00.001-07:00

So, my dr. is wonderful, and just seeing him made me feel better. He did a full check up, vaginal exam, ect. Asked me all the usual questions, and didn't see concerned. So I started asking him questions.

1st concern is complete placenta previa. The midwife implied that my placenta is completely covering my cervix, which it is, but they had said the center of the placenta was covering the cervix, basically that it was central, and it was a lot to expect it to move from that. The dr. said the information from the tech's report, wasn't consistent but that it seeemed that it was just the edge of the placenta covering the cervix. (he said they wrote appears one place, and complete in another, either it is or it isn't!) So he didn't really trust the report based on that.

2nd concern was the venous lakes, pools of maternal blood in the placenta which can cause (according to my m/w) hemmoraging, and fetal growth restriction. He was not concerned AT ALL about this, saying that if I had gone to an experienced tech, or a specialty fetal imaging place, they wouldn't have even noted this as it is so common! (this lady told me she'd been doing it for 25 years!)

3rd concern was my low amniotic fluid levels. He said also, that its to early to measure accurately the amniotic fluid index at 17 weeks (when my u/s was done) and that its really a concern at this point, and that he doesn't know why she mentioned it...

So he is doing an u/s himself for me tomarrow night at 6:30, he has 3d/4d so he will let me take a look at the little guy (which I am hoping is still a boy, b/c if she messes up that much, can she do miss that too?). I actually want a boy, so hope that's consistent.

I was worried about whether or not they would let me fly on Wednesday, he said yes, and wrote me a note.

I was worried he would make me quit nursing Landen, yes he thinks I should stop b/c it causes contractions, and that can be dangerous, but he also said that I didn't need to do it cold turkey, that I could take my time (reasonably speaking, a month or so). PHEW. I was so worried about this.

So over all, everything went pretty well! I am so relieved. He said no exercise, and take it easy, no sex ect but no bedrest yet. We have a ways for that, but it seems as though that won't happen. (just what I picked up on).

So I am relieved, and feeling better. *sigh* Thanks for your thoughts, and concerns. I am now much more hopeful for a vaginal delivery, although, I cannot go back and have my homebirth, I can accept that this time, if everything else goes smooth.

2008-07-14T08:38:00.001-07:00

Some answers tomorrow.

2008-07-13T07:21:00.000-07:00

I finally go to the dr. tomarrow, I finally get some answers. I think I might hug th ob/gyn in relief. It's been like 2 weeks that they've given me all these bad news and we've just been sitting on them, trying to think the best and not the worst.

I am planning on making a list of all the questions I have, b/c there are so many. He has a 3d/4d u/s in his office, so hopefully he will check it himself. I know with the low fluid levels they like to have another u/s within 4 weeks, and I had my last at 17 w 2 days. I am hoping he will check and see that my placenta isn't low, and I have no venous lakes. Hahaha, I know that is unlikely, but it would be nice right?

Tomorrow at 2:30 is my appt. I will be nervous and excited. I just have to pray that I won't cry as he says the scary parts. :)

I'm also supposed to go to Cape Cod On wednesday, and I am hoping he will let me fly. But whatever is best for me and Logan.

More pictures

2008-07-06T10:01:00.000-07:00

My belly 2 weeks ago.

Landen and Lola (the little girl I take care of).

Bubbles!

Look at those big brown eyes.

Boys will be boys...

2008-07-06T09:51:00.000-07:00

We babysat for our friend the other day, he is a month younger than Landen, and boy did they have fun. Here are some pictures of them playing and wrestling on Landen's bed.

He's got Landen in a head lock in this one!!

My monkey jumping on the bed!

What I'm feling now.

2008-07-05T08:15:00.000-07:00

Well, I am feeling somewhat better about things, and trying to be more positive about it all, but at the same time, I'm a reader and researcher, and I learn all the things that could happen. That's scary. I don't know if its unbalanced of me to cry, and to feel so torn up. In a way, I feel like I am alone in this. Of course Matt is sad, but its not the same as me.
My first step was the self prescription to drink boat loads of water to help my low amniotic fluid levels. I had suspected they were low b/c when I lie down I could feel him, his head, his body, and I know what was what. Normally there would be a lot more cushion, not allowing me feel him so much. It feels better already. Another concern was his movement, he's not moved as much as Landen, but over the past 2 day (since I've had more water? allowed him room to move) he's given me some good kicks and rolls. Matt even felt him from the outside.
They say its rare for complete placenta previa to completely unblock the cervix, and that I will most likely have a c-section around 37 weeks. My fantasy of a homebirth, it seems is way out of my reach, and I am heart broken about that. But what is important it my baby is healthy. I wonder how that will work if he is born so early, before he is ready, but its either that or I bleed when my cervix dilates. I worry about a NICU baby, I worry about being away from Landen in the hospital, and of course he will be ok, but no one knows what he needs like I do! We haven't been away from eachother more than an hour. And he was just with his daddy. I have friends who have had NICU baby, and I wonder how they are so strong, and I thank God that's not me, b/c I know I am not strong enough for that. I couldn't do it.
But before all that is complete bed rest which is what they are threating me with now. Someone else will take care of my baby. The job that I love most of all, and makes me smile, will be put on hold, and I won't spend my days playing with him, teaching him, and watching him grow. It's not like I won't see him, but I really treasure every moment.
You see? It's hard for me not to think about every possible outcome, most of which are negative, and worry.
I guess the next step at this point is to eagerly await a phone call on Monday to get a specialty infant imaging scan, and get more info on everything. Then get my appt set up, then go, and then wait for the call about the report. That is one thing about the midwife, is they are sooo darn slow about everything. Why couldn't they have called on Thursday to make the appt, instead of waiting until friday and realizing its a holiday. I am looking forward to the care of my ob/gyn who I know will be efficient, and timely.
Landen needs me....thanks for reading if you made it this far.

Ultrasound report

2008-07-03T10:00:00.000-07:00

At the u/s they had mentioned that I had placenta previa, u/s report is that its completely covering the os, and they don't think it will go up on its own. She will be refering me to an obgyn and she said no one will deliver me vaginally as I am to high risk. There goes my homebirth. She also said I have something called venous lakes, which is pools of blood in the placenta, and she read me something about it but all I heard was fetal growth restriction. Nice. I looked it up, and it was very vague.
She had said to me, it can be normal with one, which you have, but more than one can be dangerous. Then she said, oh wait, y ou have more than one, the other girl (another patient) has one.
Now, giving me all these news, she didn't have any info about my activity restriction, or anything definite until the head midwife comes in in the afternoon. It seemed a little unprofessional that she called me with all these bad news, but didn't have any answers, couldn't tell me exactly what they would do, what EXACTLY anything means, even about going to an ob/gyn.
So, now I have all these bad news, most of which is that these things can lead to a preemie, a baby with growth restricitions, or bleeding to death possibly, and a c/s. I don't mean to be negative.
I will GLADLY give up my homebirth, for a healthy baby. And trying to be positive, at the last u/s they said he was looking really healthy, he had legs, and arms and heart had 4 chambers, ect. So, I am thinking, hopefully the growth restriction won't be to much of a problem.

She said probably I will go back in 3 weeks for another u/s to check everything again, but of course, this too she couldn't confirm b/c the other midwife wasn't there yet.

So, I found at at playgroup with some friends, and proceeded to cry in the middle of it. So, lets hope things go well from her on...and I will give you an update when the m/w calls.

o yeah, and my amniotic fluid is quite low

Mr. pukey

2008-07-03T04:24:00.000-07:00

Landen got really sick on Tuesday night and was up all night puking his brains out, all over himself and me. I ended up bringing him in the shower, and he was shivering even in the warmth. Poor boy! He puked a few more times and finally fell asleep in my arms shivering. It was so sad watching him throw up, when I knowhow it feels, and the look on his face, when he wanted to gasp for breath, but couldn't breath. He felt better in the morning, and I called Lola's mom and told her how sick he was, not to cancel, but to let her know just in case, and she brought her somewhere else, so I was able to rest.
He is good now.
I don't know where is came from but lastnight he started sticking his finger down his throat and making himself gag, and laughing, I try to ignore it, but then he actually made himself throw up. Does he learn his lesson? No he thinks its funny, and does it some more! (I think its b/c Matt was holding him and started gagging when he threw up on himself-fresh from the shower). HAHAHA. :D

I think he wants to play...

2008-07-02T15:33:00.000-07:00

Landen was saying hi to Logan (assuming thats his name, just trying it out) saying Hi baby, and giving my belly kisses. Then he started blowing raspberries on my tummy. I think Logan really liked hearing him and wants to play b/c he just started bouncing everywhere, and is making me have to pee!!!!

Now that we know, we are ready to buy some cloth diapers!

2008-06-27T10:39:00.000-07:00

Now that we know the sex, we can buy some cloth diapers, in appropriate colors. I think besides a car seat for a toddler eventually and a double stroller this will be our big expense. We have the clothes we need mostly!

I am entering this contest here, to win a free beginners kit, and totally would love (are really need) to win. We are so tight, its a great thing we won't be buying clothes. Anyway, these are the diapers we like. I convinced dh that since i change most of the diapers anyway, why not?

You can enter too! :D

Yesterday was a big day.

2008-06-27T10:33:00.000-07:00

I brought Landen to a movie (wasn't interested much, but it was free) and on the way home, I rear ended a car in front of me.. I was going thru a construction zone and I thought the guy next to my car was gonna walk, and I had started moving at a green light, everyone stopped, and Ijust looked away from this guy to slam on my breaks, but bump the guy in front. I've never been in a car accident, so it was a bit of a scare. Both cars were fine, Landen fine, but the seat belt hit my uterus hard and I was freaked out.
I have an u/s next week, and moved it up to yesterday to make sure all was good. The baby looks wonderful, but my placenta appears to be blocking my cervix, and that can be very dangerous. Some dr.s will put you on complete bedrest for that so I am really hoping to avoid it. Also they saw what they thought was a placenta rupture, but I had no bleeding, so we are assuming its not I guess?
My midwife is stillwaiting for the report.

The good news is we were able to find out the sex of the baby a week early!! It's a boy!!!
We are sooooo excited (ok, I am, dh is a little sad he REALLY wanted a girl). We are now thinking about names. We had some girl names we really liked, but are unsure for boys. Logan and Colton are our top names right now.

16 week appt.

2008-06-22T08:27:00.000-07:00

Went well. We heard the heartbeat, it was 160. Fundus height was 16cm, which is perfect. Blood pressure for me was low, as usual. She gave me a referral for an u/s, which I am looking forward to scheduling! I am feeling good, though I still get, er, sick occasionaly, and if I don't eat I will feel the need to be sick. Besides that I am getting my energy back, getting a belly, and feeling great.

The personality of this baby already seems different then Landen. At this point with Landen, I felt him often, and strong, I feel this baby now and then, but it seems to be pretty mellow.

Matt had to work all weekend, that was sad, we look forward to our family times together and that was really cut down this weekend. Landen misses him a lot.

Today I am babysitting a friend's son, Cayden. He is a month younger than Landen, and should be here any minute, until 10.

I've really loved every stage, people ask what age I like the best, and I've said, them all, truthfully. Right now its great because he learns so much, words and seeing the world thru his eyes is so neat. But, we are entering the terrible twos. I am exhausted, with telling him no over and over. It seems redirection doesn't come as easy anymore, and we have to try several times to achieve it. Sometimes I just feel like sitting and sighing, and not fighting. But I still love it. He is so much fun. Even when he is running away, or locking me out of the car with my keys inside. Yes, he did that!

Time has gotten away

2008-06-15T17:55:00.001-07:00

it seems. I haven't posted in a loooong time! I have been busy with life. I am feeling better! I am getting a baby bump, and finally starting to realize my pregnancy. Last night I dreamt of the baby (it was a boy).
I am taking care of a little girl named Lola 3 days a week. It's not bad, she is a good napper, in the afternoon, and it gives me some time with just Landen while she is with us, but she is a crier. O BOY, is she a crier. She will be one on the 19th of June, and she's not crawling or walking, normal I know, but she doesn't want to even try. She wants to be held, and if you leave her for a second she tells you how it is. :D A learning experience for me, as Landen was so easy going and indepedent at that age. He is a lot tougher. :D
I am really proud of him though. He hasn't acted jealous at all, shares his toys, and entertains her so well. He is such a good boy with her, and I am hoping its a good prep. for days to come.
For so long now, I think, we have 9 months....but all of a sudden I realize, its not....I will be 4 months on Thursday, so that gives me what, 5 months? YIKES!!
But we are all doing good. :D
Busy busy busy!

Pictures!

2008-05-20T17:50:00.000-07:00

Mommy and Landen in his cool Nemo sheets!

Landen's cool car bed!

Swimming!

Grumpy boys first thing in the morning!

11 weeks!

2008-05-15T11:36:00.000-07:00

Today my baby is 11 weeks old! YAY!! It's going by fast, and I am excited to feel better in the next couple weeks and its not long before I feel the baby move. I was looking forward to a suprise but Matt wants to find out so we will. I do look forward to being able to say he or she. And think of a name.
Last night I purchased tickets to the cape for a week. It will be just Landen and I. It was kinda spur of the moment, but we will stay with friends, and not rent a car, so hopefully we can keep it afordable. I will stay with Sonja, and we are close, and I can't wait for Landen to play with her boys. :D
We bought Landen some waterwings today. He can swim in them by himself, its the coolest thing, and he totally loves it. There was a lady at the pool they kept saying she, and I would say yes, he, and she would just keep on saying she, wacky old lady. :D
Landen has been sleeping good, and we are closer to getting him in his own bed. We get the sheets and mattress today.
I think once we get him falling asleep on his own, I can take some doula clients before the baby pops out. :D Excited about that!

I have the habit of bloggin in the early hours...

2008-05-12T00:40:00.000-07:00

because I have nothing else to do. Landen usually will read or watch disney channel at this time. He doesn't watch tv during the day so, I don't feel so bad about it now. It's cartoons. He is gnawing on a bananna and leaning on me. He is so sweet.

He awoke with a bad dream tonight. He couldn't stop crying poor boy, and by the time he was done, he was to worked up to sleep. Ha, my cousin P thinks she has sleeping troubles with her toddler. Hopefully we can't work out this habit in the next couple weeks when we do the big room switch.

Pregnancy is going good. My baby is growing great. I know this because I spent all day Friday vomiting. ALL DAY. So, that and a pinched nerve on both sides, and a pulled neck, has made me quite the fun mommy. Matt worked Saturday, and all I wanted to do was lie in bed and not move.

I am bringing Landen somewhere fun tomarrow, probably the park, so he can run it out for a while. This is after his blood work.

I watched PS. I love you. Man that was a sad movie, and all these pregnancy hormones made me SOB. Very glad I didn't watch that in theaters. I actually really enjoyed it despite.
Also saw Juno. I enjoyed the acting very much, and I thought it was comical. I really liked Juno's character. She was so awkward, and real.
And, then we saw 27 Dresses. It was entertaining, but I don't need to see it again.

Yes, I did have a lazy weekend, and took advantage of Matt's evenings to rest my back, ect. Ha, I already look like I am full term walking with my pinched nerves. I did have the same problem first trimester with Landen, until I started going to the CHIRO every week. Mine is awesome, and I look forward to going. This is the one thing I have left Landen for, and I enjoy it. She is like a friend to me, so we always have a nice chat, and catch up.

We planned a camping trip for 2 weeks from now. I am very excited to bring Landen camping, and Matt and I haven't been in a while. Cheap vacation. :D

That's all for now.

It's hard to imagine...

2008-05-07T09:36:00.000-07:00

that I could ever love another child as much as I do Landen. You know how new moms always talk about just lying next to their newborn, staring in amazement. I still do that. I love exploring the world with him and seeing things thru his eyes. Right now he is having the time of his life with a box. I look at him and still think he's so perfectly made. So smart, and funny. He makes me smile every daytt. I know it will happen again, and it amazes me, that I could feel twice this much love for two little ones.

Being pregnant the second time around is different. Before with more free time, I spent a lot of time learning about what was going on with my body, and what my baby was growing, and how big he was. I still check that once a week, but not every day, and every website :) I am so busy chasing a toddler around, I don't have time to hold my belly and think about the baby much (except while puking, then I think, yay, baby!) It will be fun and exciting to meet this baby and fall in love.

I am really excited about the homebirth. We are planning on doing a waterbirth, and I look forward to going to my midwife appointments, and getting to know her. I think that will make me so much more confident in my choice (tho, I am already really confident). I''ve read so much about births on the Farm in Ina May Gaskin's books, I'd love one their. They seem to perfect and safe, and in the middle of nature. It just wouldnt be covered by insurance then, and we'd have to be able to spend about a month there. Yeah right.

I am tired, Landen is fighting naptime, but he is really tired. Time to try again.

Found a friend...

2008-04-24T06:23:00.000-07:00

I have a girlfriend from high school that I have been looking for FOREVER. I finally found her on facebook, and I am so happy. It was nice to see her pics, and remember her smile. She was one of the few friends that was really always there, as long as I was.
So, now I've been exploring facebook, finding different people that aren't on myspace, and I am missing some of them. I mean, our roads have gone seperate ways, for sure. Most of them are thinking I am crazy to be married with 1 kid and pregnant with 2.
Anyway, speaking of number 2, I can't believe I am already 8 weeks. Hoping this baby continues to stick. Matt is really liking the name Elizabeth. Of course, that is assuming its a girl. :D
Ok, I am going to try to get Landen out, I got him dressed and the tv was on disney and he say Handy Manny and was like totally wanting to watch it. That is what hes been doing for the past 5 minutes. it just ended though, and I don't want him to want to watch something else.
I cut his hair last night, a little crooked, usually it comes out perfect, but he didnt want to sit still, I do it in the shower, in like a minute. I had matt grab him a popsicle, in hopes that would help him sit still. It looks cute, but on one side I went up a little and on the other its even with the back. He is sooo cute. I'll post some new pics.

Roseola AGAIN

2008-04-23T08:25:00.000-07:00

Go here:
http://tash-ramblings.blogspot.com/2008/07/seriously-roseola-again.html for better info. :D

Landen has roseola again. Could explain the past weeks sleeping issues? Maybe? He has the rash now, so hopefully he will be feeling better. I don't know what I should do about this, he's had it now 6 or 7 times. When most people only get 1 time? Maybe I should get a second opinion? I thought about bring him to a homeopathic pediatrician. My midwife knows some.

He got up at 4:45 today, and back to sleep at 7. Then slept until 10:30. At least he slept straight, and didn't wake up.

My tummy does awful when I don't get enough sleep. I get super sick feeling. It's so hard to figure out what to eat, I am not doing so good with that. Anyone want to be my personal chef? :D Pretty please? As much as I love to cook, I just don't have it in me lately.

I can't believe I will be 8 weeks already tomarrow. I feel like I just found out, but apparently not. I have a midwife appt on Tuesday, but I think I might change it to Friday (assuming I have my insurance in) so that Matt can come. She said she works late on Fridays.
Landen wants me gotta go!

awww, much better

2008-04-17T14:37:00.001-07:00

We slept last night. He slept from 9-5am woke up to nurse, and then slept until 9. That's how I like it. Then he napped from 12:45 to 3:45. He'll be nice and refreshed for the meeting. Actually we are both sick, my throat is swollen and sore, and my nose stuffed. I imagine I got it from him b/c he has had a cough ( I think from post nasal drip) and a runny nose since Monday. I hate it when he is sick.
I have been feeling icky. Lots of constant tummy aches, and yesterday I threw up. Today wasn't so bad. I feel best in the mornings, and by the time Matt comes home from work, I'm tired, got a tummy ache, and just want to curl up in bed. Yeah, doesn't make for such a good cook.
As for food, no cravings, but the desire to eat healthy. I guess you could call it a craving... I am not dying for it, but when I think about food, I think about simples meals like grilled chicken and veggies.
So, since no one around here reads this, I'm gonna do a little no name vent. Me and a gf had a silly disagreement I guess. I had talked to her about something that upset me (involving other friends of ours) and well, I was a little emotional. After I did my little speech, I apologized, and thanked her for letting me confide in her. Several days later, I am regreting my confession as I should have talked to the people who upset me, but figuring she was my closest friend, it was all good. I am a firm believer in, if you have a problem with someone, talk to them about it, not other people. So, my girlfriend decides to solve the problem for us, and goes to them and talks to them about it. She apparently solved the problem, but I have no idea about this. I go to them to work it out, and they are all like, thinking differently. My friend didn't really understand what I was upset about and changed things up, and "solved a problem", yet I feel so sense of closure. I still feel like this is there. They can apologize to her all they want, but the problem is with me. So I am upset with her that she broke my confidence. She says, you didn't ask me not to tell, so I thought I could. Right. The tears and the "thanks for letting me confide" must have told her that. So now, one problem becomes two. She refuses to apologize, and thinks she did nothing wrong.
I don't know what to do. Its not a huge deal, but I really feel I deserve an apology. (she also spoke to one other person about something else) The bible says to leave your gift at the altar, and go make amends, and to not let the sun set in a provoked state, but how can I do that, when I feel so hurt, and a little betrayed. It's hard to fix something.
Vent over.
Please feel free to give me your thoughts on the matter.
Landen is opening and closing the closet door, saying in, (when he goes in) and out (when he goes out).
I better get my face on for the meeting tonight. I've got little red dots all over my face. They look like teeny freckles. I imagine its hormones, they dont look like pimples though.
BYE!

Sleep

2008-04-12T09:10:00.000-07:00

or lack there of. Landen always slept really well as a baby, but the past couple months have been rough. I do plan to transition him from the breast and to his own bed after Matt's parents come, but until then, we have some really long nights. On top of that, my nipples are super sore from the hormones of pregnancy. I am currently counting down the minutes until naptime.
Ahhh, sleep.
Matt took his electrical exam today. I am praying he passes, b/c it will mean a big raise, and we need that. I have been looking for a child to take care of thru craigslists posts, but every child we find doesn't end up working out.
I am six weeks and 2 days pregnant. This morning I woke up so nauseaus, I had to go eat something right away, it wasn't fun. I think it would be a lie to say I am feeling great. But mentally I am, and I love being pregnant so much that I don't want to complain.
We are having pizza tonight. I was going to make pizza, but man am I burnt. So Matt and Landen just went to pick it up. I am savoring this moment of silence, and rest.