So this volcano thing has had me thinking about how mother nature can manage to cause so much disruption to what we've all become accustomed to.
I honestly take flying for granted. Since being overseas, I've been on a planes at least twice a year. I'm always concerned about delays, but I can't say that I've ever been concerned about my flight canceling. Mother Nature has never really caused a lot of problems in my life aside from the spring allergies. The havoc this volcano is causing is getting to the point of serious frustration for many travelers.
I'm fortunate enough that I am stuck at my own house, but I have friends stuck all over the world trying to get home for school, work and life. While I'm not in a rush to get to Arizona, I do remain on a bit of a time constraint. I have more to think about then just myself or Lucy, I have to think about Kelly (our dog).
Its not fair to her caregivers or her to have her change homes every week or to put her in a kennel when I know how much it disturbs her. She's usually pretty good when it comes to transitions, but with Jon gone as well, I don't want her to think we are abandoning her. I am very lucky to have a great network of friends who are willing to help out and help me care for her. I am grateful for that every time I look at Kelly.
As for the travelers stuck abroad, I can't even imagine what must be going through their minds at this point. While it appeared that most people were understanding about the situation in the beginning, I'm starting to see that people are getting angry. Some airlines aren't able to get to everyone and their phone lines are overwhelmed. People can't get through on the phones and they are being sent away from the airport counters being told to check the Internet (worthless!) or call the airlines-which is next to impossible to connect with.
I got though on Saturday, at the beginning of this mess, and was answered by an exhausted sounding representative. He helped me re-book on Thursday and was very sweet despite the number of calls he had probably taken. He took the time to check all flights and times, including the new destination of Tucson for me. Instead of getting angry at him about the cancellation, I realized that it was beyond his control. I thanked him at the end of the call and wished him a better day, which he told me he appreciated since every phone call he'd taken up to that point had someone yelling at him. After I got off the phone, I remembered how tough customer service can be. In situations like these, I am so happy that isn't my job.
I hope that mother nature is planning to take a break for a while...I know I'm not the only one who is wishing for that. Lots of people need to get to final destinations. I'm saying prayers that it happens shortly for them...and me :)
Monday, April 19, 2010
Saturday, April 17, 2010
Day 29
This week the nightmares started. They have been HORRIBLE! I wake up stressed out sometimes just because of a dream that isn't true. My nightmares are doubly worse because of the pregnancy. They are so vivid that sometimes I wake up and have to remind myself that it isn't true or that it never happened. The worst one I had involved Jon telling me he thought we were growing apart and he didn't think we could change it. I woke up crying and had a tough time with it all day even though I knew it wasn't true and never would be.
Its amazing how your mind works sometimes. They say your dreams are a subconscious way of dealing with problems in your life that you won't face. The dream about Jon has always been a concern for me when it comes to us being apart. It was one of the things that I talked about a lot before he left. I felt a thousand times better after Jon and I talked that night. He always knows the right things to say to make me feel better.
The deployment has hit the 4 week mark as of today. I'm feeling better knowing that its one less month we'll be apart. We still don't know much about when he will make it to his final duty station, just that its still in the works. Wherever he is, he's still away from us, so it doesn't matter much to me when he makes it to his final location. I just pray every night before bed that somehow he will make it home for his baby's birth. I try not to imagine what it would be like without him, but just in case I'm working on a "plan B" to make sure everyone is taken care of.
I think tonight I'm going to try some relaxation exercises to clear my mind before bed. I'm hoping that puts me in a positive state of mind and brings only happy dreams....
Its amazing how your mind works sometimes. They say your dreams are a subconscious way of dealing with problems in your life that you won't face. The dream about Jon has always been a concern for me when it comes to us being apart. It was one of the things that I talked about a lot before he left. I felt a thousand times better after Jon and I talked that night. He always knows the right things to say to make me feel better.
The deployment has hit the 4 week mark as of today. I'm feeling better knowing that its one less month we'll be apart. We still don't know much about when he will make it to his final duty station, just that its still in the works. Wherever he is, he's still away from us, so it doesn't matter much to me when he makes it to his final location. I just pray every night before bed that somehow he will make it home for his baby's birth. I try not to imagine what it would be like without him, but just in case I'm working on a "plan B" to make sure everyone is taken care of.
I think tonight I'm going to try some relaxation exercises to clear my mind before bed. I'm hoping that puts me in a positive state of mind and brings only happy dreams....
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Day 25
I am getting so excited to go back to the states to see my parents. Lucy and I are headed on our big adventure this weekend. We're headed to Tucson, Arizona. Probably one of my top 3 places to visit in the states.
I've been there two times before, once when I was pregnant with Lucy, then again when she was 3 months old. She isn't going to remember a thing about it, but at least I know what to expect. She has been really good with my parents every time she sees them, and I'm hoping this trip is no exception.
As for the flying with her-I won't lie and say I'm not a little nervous. Lucy has been flying since she was 7 days old. She's been on more airplanes in 2 years then most people have been on in their whole lives. You could pretty much call her a champion flyer. She's always been great on planes (well, except for that one time on a flight from Minneapolis to Dallas, but who could blame her? We were said goodbye to all our family!) And the people at the Airlines counters in Europe are always amazing when it comes to finding awesome seats for parents with small children. But that doesn't mean that I don't have my doubts about her behavior on an 8 1/2 hour flight.
I've come to conclusion that I will probably never get more then an hour's worth of sleep on a trans-Atlantic flight. I've also started to understand what types of things to pack for a toddler on a plane-snacks, books, coloring books, small toys and at least one set of headphones that fit her. This flight I'm a little nervous about one more thing-Lucy is getting her last set of 2 year molars.
I've been VERY lucky when it comes to Lucy and teething. This kid has always had at least 2 teeth, if not more, come in at a time. This time its no exception. She's getting both top molars at the same time. Unfortunately for her, she's having some mouth pain. I feel terrible for her, she'll point in her mouth and say "Ouch!" pretty regularly the last 2 days. And her nose is running like crazy causing her to cough and sneeze. But I'm hoping we're through the worst of it. I saw one of the molars has definitely broken the gum and it looked like #2 was doing it as well.
I hope the runny nose at least stops before she gets an ear infection or cold. That way I don't have to wait in the emergency room the day before our flight for some medication.
If it doesn't, well at least I know we're headed somewhere sunny, warm and dry. A much needed change from the current weather in Germany. Arizona-HERE WE COME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I've been there two times before, once when I was pregnant with Lucy, then again when she was 3 months old. She isn't going to remember a thing about it, but at least I know what to expect. She has been really good with my parents every time she sees them, and I'm hoping this trip is no exception.
As for the flying with her-I won't lie and say I'm not a little nervous. Lucy has been flying since she was 7 days old. She's been on more airplanes in 2 years then most people have been on in their whole lives. You could pretty much call her a champion flyer. She's always been great on planes (well, except for that one time on a flight from Minneapolis to Dallas, but who could blame her? We were said goodbye to all our family!) And the people at the Airlines counters in Europe are always amazing when it comes to finding awesome seats for parents with small children. But that doesn't mean that I don't have my doubts about her behavior on an 8 1/2 hour flight.
I've come to conclusion that I will probably never get more then an hour's worth of sleep on a trans-Atlantic flight. I've also started to understand what types of things to pack for a toddler on a plane-snacks, books, coloring books, small toys and at least one set of headphones that fit her. This flight I'm a little nervous about one more thing-Lucy is getting her last set of 2 year molars.
I've been VERY lucky when it comes to Lucy and teething. This kid has always had at least 2 teeth, if not more, come in at a time. This time its no exception. She's getting both top molars at the same time. Unfortunately for her, she's having some mouth pain. I feel terrible for her, she'll point in her mouth and say "Ouch!" pretty regularly the last 2 days. And her nose is running like crazy causing her to cough and sneeze. But I'm hoping we're through the worst of it. I saw one of the molars has definitely broken the gum and it looked like #2 was doing it as well.
I hope the runny nose at least stops before she gets an ear infection or cold. That way I don't have to wait in the emergency room the day before our flight for some medication.
If it doesn't, well at least I know we're headed somewhere sunny, warm and dry. A much needed change from the current weather in Germany. Arizona-HERE WE COME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Friday, April 9, 2010
Day 21
Just a short funny story for today.
Lucy had a very exciting morning of shopping in downtown Kaiserslautern. She is always so excited and crashes in the car on the way home. Today was no exception.
So once we got home, I tried to give her a little lunch, which she turned down. All she wanted was peanuts. So I gave her a little bowl and 10 minutes to eat them. She wasn't quite done with them and wanted to eat a few while reading books before nap time. We read a few books and I placed the bowl of peanuts on her bookshelf. I put her to bed and left the room-completely forgetting to grab the bowl of remaining peanuts.
Twenty minutes later, I hear a crash. I wait for crying and hear nothing, but decide to check it out anyways. I peek my head in her room and here was my little girl-who had NEVER climbed out of bed in her life-reading a book and eating peanuts off the floor (she knocked the plastic bowl off the shelf).
I giggle and say, "You would've been fine if you hadn't dropped the book. Now you're busted. Time to get back in bed." Since she thought she was in trouble, she promptly stops chewing the mouthful of peanuts and climbs in to bed with tears in her eyes. I kept smiling at her as we laid down and told her she wasn't in trouble, now could she please finish chewing what in her mouth? After five minutes of coaxing, she finally finished what she was eating, gave me a grin and rolled over to fall asleep. I couldn't help but laugh thinking that I would've likely done the same thing when I was her age. It was the cutest moment of my day.
Lucy had a very exciting morning of shopping in downtown Kaiserslautern. She is always so excited and crashes in the car on the way home. Today was no exception.
So once we got home, I tried to give her a little lunch, which she turned down. All she wanted was peanuts. So I gave her a little bowl and 10 minutes to eat them. She wasn't quite done with them and wanted to eat a few while reading books before nap time. We read a few books and I placed the bowl of peanuts on her bookshelf. I put her to bed and left the room-completely forgetting to grab the bowl of remaining peanuts.
Twenty minutes later, I hear a crash. I wait for crying and hear nothing, but decide to check it out anyways. I peek my head in her room and here was my little girl-who had NEVER climbed out of bed in her life-reading a book and eating peanuts off the floor (she knocked the plastic bowl off the shelf).
I giggle and say, "You would've been fine if you hadn't dropped the book. Now you're busted. Time to get back in bed." Since she thought she was in trouble, she promptly stops chewing the mouthful of peanuts and climbs in to bed with tears in her eyes. I kept smiling at her as we laid down and told her she wasn't in trouble, now could she please finish chewing what in her mouth? After five minutes of coaxing, she finally finished what she was eating, gave me a grin and rolled over to fall asleep. I couldn't help but laugh thinking that I would've likely done the same thing when I was her age. It was the cutest moment of my day.
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Day 19
I spent most of today outside. It was so beautiful out I couldn't stand being in the house. I finished prepping my vegetable garden and started cleaning up another corner for more flowers.
Lucy and Kelly enjoyed the warm weather as well. Kelly got the "crazies" a few times and raced around the yard, much to Lucy's delight. After the gardening was done I spent some time blowing bubbles with my little angel and relaxing on a lounge chair. As I looked out across Kaiserslautern, I realized how much Jon would love to see everything turning green.
This was our favorite time of year here last year. Jon spent time in the garden while I spent time lounging on a chair. We enjoyed many warm nights on the deck just talking and looking out across the community. The fields were yellows and greens all summer long making the view all the more spectacular.
I wish there was a way I could share this with Jon since now I'm the one responsible for the garden and maintaining much of the yard (minus the mowing thanks to amazing friends). Even though I hate it, I've been trying to make it look nice so when Jon comes home, the yard will be ready for him to plant anything he might want to get started over the winter or just so that the garden is ready for next springs vegetables.
I find it amazing that things you'll do for someone even though they aren't here to appreciate it at the moment. I know all the sweat and frustration at pulling weeds every week will be worth it. And because I know he'd do the same for me.
Lucy and Kelly enjoyed the warm weather as well. Kelly got the "crazies" a few times and raced around the yard, much to Lucy's delight. After the gardening was done I spent some time blowing bubbles with my little angel and relaxing on a lounge chair. As I looked out across Kaiserslautern, I realized how much Jon would love to see everything turning green.
This was our favorite time of year here last year. Jon spent time in the garden while I spent time lounging on a chair. We enjoyed many warm nights on the deck just talking and looking out across the community. The fields were yellows and greens all summer long making the view all the more spectacular.
I wish there was a way I could share this with Jon since now I'm the one responsible for the garden and maintaining much of the yard (minus the mowing thanks to amazing friends). Even though I hate it, I've been trying to make it look nice so when Jon comes home, the yard will be ready for him to plant anything he might want to get started over the winter or just so that the garden is ready for next springs vegetables.
I find it amazing that things you'll do for someone even though they aren't here to appreciate it at the moment. I know all the sweat and frustration at pulling weeds every week will be worth it. And because I know he'd do the same for me.
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
Day 18
Over the last few weeks, I've noticed that I gained some weight. I can hear all the people reading this collectively sigh and say "Duh, you're pregnant!" Some weight gain is necessary in order to help a child grow. But did you know that at 12 weeks, the average fetus weighs .5oz ? Add the additional weight (blood, breasts, placenta, water weight) and I should have only gained about four pounds. Last appointment I had gained EIGHT stupid pounds!!!
I was so disappointed in myself. With Lucy, I exercised every morning through the nausea and exhaustion. I walked the dog EVERY SINGLE DAY for at least 30 minutes. The best thing I did for myself was stop buying junk food at the store (chips, candy bars, any sort of temptation). With this pregnancy, I did everything opposite.
I suppose I could use the excuse that I didn't have the time now that I'm chasing a toddler 17 hours a day. Or that its been too rainy to walk the dog through the muddy woods. But I'm not going to. I'm just going to come out and say it-I got lazy.
There's no reason for me not to get exercise. While the "family gyms" aren't in pristine condition, they do exist. I can bring Lucy and still get a work out on a cadrio machine for 30 minutes a day. I have Yoga DVD's that I love, I have the Wii Fit (which isn't really much of a work out compared to what I use to do, but its still better then sitting on the couch surfing channels) and yet I found an excuse every day for the last 6 weeks on why I couldn't work out.
So yesterday the warmer weather started to get me inspired. What is the best way to get some fresh air and spend at least 30 minutes sweating a few days a week? Then it hit me - the old track my stroller-robics class used! I knew a few moves that I could do to maintain/build muscle strength and I knew I could get about 3 miles done in an hour. So I sent an email to friends and asked them to join me.
It was such an awesome start to my day. Four Mommies showed up with four amazing toddlers. We walked, talked and laughed. Before I knew it, an hour was up. I had planned on walking more, but today was just a start. I was afraid to overdo it after six weeks of not doing anything more then a short walk with the dog. But I felt G-R-E-A-T afterwards. I was so positive after getting some fresh air. The whole energy in my body seemed to shift from "lazy" to "super-woman". I felt more refreshed that I've felt in weeks, all this I attribute to exercise.
Lucky for my doggie baby, I didn't lose that positive energy all day. After lunch and Lucy's nap, I strapped on the backpack with all 27lbs of Lucy and headed on a 30 minute hike with my family. I forgot how much I love walking the dog and pointing out things to Lucy. Now that the animals are starting to graze in the fields, its even more fun for us. We get to see sheep on a pretty regular basis for the rest of summer :) I can't wait for the cows!
I am a person who lacks positive energy when I don't exercise regularly. With Jon gone through the fall, the last thing I need is negativity in my day. I am so pumped that I found a way to bring back the happy me. I know its only been one day, but if I keep up my schedule for at least 2 weeks, I'll be back on track (no pun intended). I realize that losing the weight I already gained is impossible and slightly unsafe, but that doesn't mean that I can't tone up my legs and arms. I am determined to be healthy for this baby. Besides, every pound I gain throughout this pregnancy is a pound I have to lose. I am determined to get back to pre-pregnancy weight after this baby. I did it with Lucy and I will do it again!
I was so disappointed in myself. With Lucy, I exercised every morning through the nausea and exhaustion. I walked the dog EVERY SINGLE DAY for at least 30 minutes. The best thing I did for myself was stop buying junk food at the store (chips, candy bars, any sort of temptation). With this pregnancy, I did everything opposite.
I suppose I could use the excuse that I didn't have the time now that I'm chasing a toddler 17 hours a day. Or that its been too rainy to walk the dog through the muddy woods. But I'm not going to. I'm just going to come out and say it-I got lazy.
There's no reason for me not to get exercise. While the "family gyms" aren't in pristine condition, they do exist. I can bring Lucy and still get a work out on a cadrio machine for 30 minutes a day. I have Yoga DVD's that I love, I have the Wii Fit (which isn't really much of a work out compared to what I use to do, but its still better then sitting on the couch surfing channels) and yet I found an excuse every day for the last 6 weeks on why I couldn't work out.
So yesterday the warmer weather started to get me inspired. What is the best way to get some fresh air and spend at least 30 minutes sweating a few days a week? Then it hit me - the old track my stroller-robics class used! I knew a few moves that I could do to maintain/build muscle strength and I knew I could get about 3 miles done in an hour. So I sent an email to friends and asked them to join me.
It was such an awesome start to my day. Four Mommies showed up with four amazing toddlers. We walked, talked and laughed. Before I knew it, an hour was up. I had planned on walking more, but today was just a start. I was afraid to overdo it after six weeks of not doing anything more then a short walk with the dog. But I felt G-R-E-A-T afterwards. I was so positive after getting some fresh air. The whole energy in my body seemed to shift from "lazy" to "super-woman". I felt more refreshed that I've felt in weeks, all this I attribute to exercise.
Lucky for my doggie baby, I didn't lose that positive energy all day. After lunch and Lucy's nap, I strapped on the backpack with all 27lbs of Lucy and headed on a 30 minute hike with my family. I forgot how much I love walking the dog and pointing out things to Lucy. Now that the animals are starting to graze in the fields, its even more fun for us. We get to see sheep on a pretty regular basis for the rest of summer :) I can't wait for the cows!
I am a person who lacks positive energy when I don't exercise regularly. With Jon gone through the fall, the last thing I need is negativity in my day. I am so pumped that I found a way to bring back the happy me. I know its only been one day, but if I keep up my schedule for at least 2 weeks, I'll be back on track (no pun intended). I realize that losing the weight I already gained is impossible and slightly unsafe, but that doesn't mean that I can't tone up my legs and arms. I am determined to be healthy for this baby. Besides, every pound I gain throughout this pregnancy is a pound I have to lose. I am determined to get back to pre-pregnancy weight after this baby. I did it with Lucy and I will do it again!
Monday, April 5, 2010
Day 17
I just read an interesting article about the benefits of breastfeeding. I feel the need to weigh in myself...
Before I had Lucy, I said I would never breastfeed. What I knew of nursing children I saw in public situations, mom's walking around breastfeeding while shopping for clothes or eating meals in restaurants. I'm a bit too modest to feel comfortable pulling out a breast in public just because my baby is hungry. So I felt that bottles/formula would be the only way to go.
I had conversations with my cousin about it constantly and sometimes disagreements would ensue because I was adamantly against nursing in public. She would tell me, "Just wait. When you hold that little one in your arms for the first time and realize that you can give her a gift that no one else can, you'll change your mind". I always left the conversation feeling the same way, she was wrong and no way was I going to be a breast feeding mom.
I was so naive and stubborn that I never listened to her explain the benefits of nursing a newborn. I never heard her talk about the bond you would share. I never heard her talk about the health of her then 2 year old daughter.
When I found out I was pregnant, one of the first things the Dr. asked me was if I was planning on breastfeeding. I was on the fence about it. Did I want to sacrifice my time, my body, my independence for this new life? The more I thought about it, the more I realized that I was already doing all of those things and more just by bringing this little life into the world. Then I learned about all the benefits to the baby as well as the mother. It felt like my decision was simple - why would I take something away from my child that no one else can give her? Why would I ever jeopardize her health and well being for my own benefit?
The first time I nursed Lucy, literally moments after she was born, we created a bond that I can't explain. My cousin was right, I couldn't imagine feeding her any other way. Not only did I give her life, I was giving her a healthy start to it.
Those first few weeks of nursing were difficult, I spent a lot of time complaining and crying about how she wouldn't latch on correctly or how sore I was. I said I was going to stop every time I nursed her for the first 5 weeks. But my wonderful husband was so supportive and asked me to try for 6 weeks. After 6 weeks, if I still was having problems, he would support me if I wanted to switch her to formula.
Miraculously after 5 weeks, we figured it out. And I say "we" as in Lucy and I. We worked out a comfortable position for both of us and she finally figured out how to latch on without hurting me. I didn't even realize that I passed the 6 week mark. It was that easy.
I never was able to be the mom who fed her child in public. I always needed a bathroom or a quiet place to nurse her. We spent lots of time the in the backseat of the car nursing when I was out and about. There are loads of products out there to cover yourself and your child with, but I just didn't feel comfortable even with those products. If I knew we were going to be out for too long, I always pumped a bottle. This also allowed Jon to feel a part of the bond I shared with Lucy, which I felt was more important then anything else. I knew he wanted to share that special time with her as well.
Now there are more studies showing the benefits of nursing even as little as 6 months. It always use to be 12 months for any significant benefits to a child. I see the benefits to my little girl even today. She's extremely healthy and has yet to be put on an antibiotic for an illness. She's never been sick enough to need much more then Tylenol and a humidifier. I'm not saying that every breastfed child is as lucky, but a large portion of children are.
I find it amazing that I was able to nurse her for 13 months before we both started to tire of it. Some days I still miss that bond we shared, that ten minutes right before bed when we just cuddled. But I'm glad I decided to do it.
And for my cousin who I always argued with about breastfeeding. You were right. I'm sorry I doubted you.
For those of you who want to see the article:
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20100405/ap_on_he_me/us_med_breast_feeding_savings
Before I had Lucy, I said I would never breastfeed. What I knew of nursing children I saw in public situations, mom's walking around breastfeeding while shopping for clothes or eating meals in restaurants. I'm a bit too modest to feel comfortable pulling out a breast in public just because my baby is hungry. So I felt that bottles/formula would be the only way to go.
I had conversations with my cousin about it constantly and sometimes disagreements would ensue because I was adamantly against nursing in public. She would tell me, "Just wait. When you hold that little one in your arms for the first time and realize that you can give her a gift that no one else can, you'll change your mind". I always left the conversation feeling the same way, she was wrong and no way was I going to be a breast feeding mom.
I was so naive and stubborn that I never listened to her explain the benefits of nursing a newborn. I never heard her talk about the bond you would share. I never heard her talk about the health of her then 2 year old daughter.
When I found out I was pregnant, one of the first things the Dr. asked me was if I was planning on breastfeeding. I was on the fence about it. Did I want to sacrifice my time, my body, my independence for this new life? The more I thought about it, the more I realized that I was already doing all of those things and more just by bringing this little life into the world. Then I learned about all the benefits to the baby as well as the mother. It felt like my decision was simple - why would I take something away from my child that no one else can give her? Why would I ever jeopardize her health and well being for my own benefit?
The first time I nursed Lucy, literally moments after she was born, we created a bond that I can't explain. My cousin was right, I couldn't imagine feeding her any other way. Not only did I give her life, I was giving her a healthy start to it.
Those first few weeks of nursing were difficult, I spent a lot of time complaining and crying about how she wouldn't latch on correctly or how sore I was. I said I was going to stop every time I nursed her for the first 5 weeks. But my wonderful husband was so supportive and asked me to try for 6 weeks. After 6 weeks, if I still was having problems, he would support me if I wanted to switch her to formula.
Miraculously after 5 weeks, we figured it out. And I say "we" as in Lucy and I. We worked out a comfortable position for both of us and she finally figured out how to latch on without hurting me. I didn't even realize that I passed the 6 week mark. It was that easy.
I never was able to be the mom who fed her child in public. I always needed a bathroom or a quiet place to nurse her. We spent lots of time the in the backseat of the car nursing when I was out and about. There are loads of products out there to cover yourself and your child with, but I just didn't feel comfortable even with those products. If I knew we were going to be out for too long, I always pumped a bottle. This also allowed Jon to feel a part of the bond I shared with Lucy, which I felt was more important then anything else. I knew he wanted to share that special time with her as well.
Now there are more studies showing the benefits of nursing even as little as 6 months. It always use to be 12 months for any significant benefits to a child. I see the benefits to my little girl even today. She's extremely healthy and has yet to be put on an antibiotic for an illness. She's never been sick enough to need much more then Tylenol and a humidifier. I'm not saying that every breastfed child is as lucky, but a large portion of children are.
I find it amazing that I was able to nurse her for 13 months before we both started to tire of it. Some days I still miss that bond we shared, that ten minutes right before bed when we just cuddled. But I'm glad I decided to do it.
And for my cousin who I always argued with about breastfeeding. You were right. I'm sorry I doubted you.
For those of you who want to see the article:
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20100405/ap_on_he_me/us_med_breast_feeding_savings
Saturday, April 3, 2010
Day 15
Today Lucy and I planted flowers for the summer. I am not a gardener (as stated in a previous blog) but I love the way flowers make a house feel like spring and summer. Here in Germany, they take their flowers pretty seriously. There are baskets hanging over every balcony and flowers growing in every possible spot of a person's yard.
Most of my neighbors have beautiful gardens with flowers, vegetables and beautifully sculpted bushes. I love taking walks through the neighborhood when everything is in full bloom. You see flowers hanging out of baskets on houses and all along the road. The people who live across the street from us have one of my favorite gardens. They have what appears to be a retaining wall made from half circular bricks that you can fill will flowers. The entire wall (its the half the width of our house) is full of differnt creeping flowers ranging from yelloww to purples. Its so beautiful to wake up to in the morning.
My flowers, on the other hand, are not quite as elaborate. I don't have the same time or desire to have such a gorgeous garden. Lucy and I planted some pansies and even a begonia. They make the front step look more welcoming and the deck and outside patio more like summer. I can't wait until they really take off.
I was surprised at how much Lucy liked planting. She's been weird lately about getting dirty, but today she dug in with her new Dora gloves and shovel. I wish I was able to get some pictures, but I decided it was better for the camera if I kept my dirty gloves off it. Itwas still a fun memory to have with her. Now lets see if she helps me keep up with the watering....
Most of my neighbors have beautiful gardens with flowers, vegetables and beautifully sculpted bushes. I love taking walks through the neighborhood when everything is in full bloom. You see flowers hanging out of baskets on houses and all along the road. The people who live across the street from us have one of my favorite gardens. They have what appears to be a retaining wall made from half circular bricks that you can fill will flowers. The entire wall (its the half the width of our house) is full of differnt creeping flowers ranging from yelloww to purples. Its so beautiful to wake up to in the morning.
My flowers, on the other hand, are not quite as elaborate. I don't have the same time or desire to have such a gorgeous garden. Lucy and I planted some pansies and even a begonia. They make the front step look more welcoming and the deck and outside patio more like summer. I can't wait until they really take off.
I was surprised at how much Lucy liked planting. She's been weird lately about getting dirty, but today she dug in with her new Dora gloves and shovel. I wish I was able to get some pictures, but I decided it was better for the camera if I kept my dirty gloves off it. Itwas still a fun memory to have with her. Now lets see if she helps me keep up with the watering....
Friday, April 2, 2010
Day 14
Today I hit my 12 week mark for the pregnancy. That means that basically my first trimester is over! Hooray! I woke up excited that this is the week my morning sickness and nausea usually go away and that I will finally start looking pregnant. But when I got out of bed this morning, my body was telling me "go back to bed".
I don't remember this with Lucy, but oh my goodness am I sore today! It started with my ankles then moved to my knees and hips, now I've got a knot in my neck the size of Texas. And its not the I-worked-out-really-hard kind of soreness, its the achy version. I tried taking Tylenol but its not really helping. And I've doubled my water intake. But I can't seem to shake this ache.
I still took Kelly for a decent walk and ran my errands. I even played with Lucy outside for a while, chasing her and Kelly around the backyard. But when I put her down to bed tomight, I couldn't get out of there fast enough. All I want to do is put my feet up.
I'm hoping this does not mean I'm getting sick (aka the flu) and that it will be gone by tomorrow morning. We have a pretty full schedule on our hands for Easter and having a grumpy mommy will not make things fun for Lucy. Besides, isn't the second trimester supposed to be the most enjoyable?
I'm off to the couch to enjoy some much needed water and television time......
I don't remember this with Lucy, but oh my goodness am I sore today! It started with my ankles then moved to my knees and hips, now I've got a knot in my neck the size of Texas. And its not the I-worked-out-really-hard kind of soreness, its the achy version. I tried taking Tylenol but its not really helping. And I've doubled my water intake. But I can't seem to shake this ache.
I still took Kelly for a decent walk and ran my errands. I even played with Lucy outside for a while, chasing her and Kelly around the backyard. But when I put her down to bed tomight, I couldn't get out of there fast enough. All I want to do is put my feet up.
I'm hoping this does not mean I'm getting sick (aka the flu) and that it will be gone by tomorrow morning. We have a pretty full schedule on our hands for Easter and having a grumpy mommy will not make things fun for Lucy. Besides, isn't the second trimester supposed to be the most enjoyable?
I'm off to the couch to enjoy some much needed water and television time......
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Day 13
When you own a dog, you take on lots of new responsibilities. Its like having a toddler who can't talk sometimes. If you are able to start from a puppy, you learn the joys of saying "NO! DON'T CHEW MY SHOES!", teaching them tricks and/or commands and of course potty training. I thought it was pretty easy to be honest with you. Kelly was so cute and always very excited to see people. Her elation at meeting strangers or just being outside helped me find the joy in the small things of life. Then one day, Kelly started shedding...a lot.
Obviously when you get a dog, you know that dog hair will become a common occurrence in your home, on your clothes and in your car (and not because they ride in the car!). But in the last week, Kelly's shedding has been taken to a whole new level.
I will rub behind her ears and pull my hand away to find its covered in hair. After a few days of this, I decided to start brushing her every day, much to her dismay. She doesn't like to be brushed. I think because we use a wire brush. But we've tried other brushes and this is the only one that actually collects the hair instead of spreading it all over the house. But an hour after I brush her, I'll rub her back and another huge clump of hair comes out. It was so gross!
So today I decided that maybe a good scrub in the tub will help her. She LOVES to be scrubbed-just hold the water and soap please!-and Lucy loves to help. She giggles when Kelly shakes off all the water and talks to Kelly the whole time I give her the bath. Today, I decided it would be Lucy's responsibility to give Kelly her treats during bath time.
For the first time, Kelly came into the bathroom willingly for her first treat. YAH! Lucy was so helpful and I praised her for it. After Kelly gets scrubbed and lets me rinse her face, she gets half of treat #2. Then comes time to dry off-here is where I made my mistake.
I brought the whole jar of treats in the bathroom today. When it was time to dry Kelly off, Lucy wanted to give her a treat. I opened the jar and said "Just one more treat, OK Lucy?" then I looked away. In that one second, Lucy had grabbed a whole handful of treats and proceeded to feed them to Kelly! Kelly, of course, knew this was not normal and did her best to gobble them up from Lucy's hand as quickly as possible. I yelled "NO!!! Lucy stop!!!" only to have her reach her other hand in for more treats. By the time I was able to close the jar and take the treats out of Lucy's hands, I have no idea how many Kelly got. Needless to say, today was most likely Kelly's favorite bath EVER!
I'm hoping this bath will help her shedding problem. I don't know if I can keep up with the vacuuming and dusting every day! Does anyone out there have any suggestions for me????
Obviously when you get a dog, you know that dog hair will become a common occurrence in your home, on your clothes and in your car (and not because they ride in the car!). But in the last week, Kelly's shedding has been taken to a whole new level.
I will rub behind her ears and pull my hand away to find its covered in hair. After a few days of this, I decided to start brushing her every day, much to her dismay. She doesn't like to be brushed. I think because we use a wire brush. But we've tried other brushes and this is the only one that actually collects the hair instead of spreading it all over the house. But an hour after I brush her, I'll rub her back and another huge clump of hair comes out. It was so gross!
So today I decided that maybe a good scrub in the tub will help her. She LOVES to be scrubbed-just hold the water and soap please!-and Lucy loves to help. She giggles when Kelly shakes off all the water and talks to Kelly the whole time I give her the bath. Today, I decided it would be Lucy's responsibility to give Kelly her treats during bath time.
For the first time, Kelly came into the bathroom willingly for her first treat. YAH! Lucy was so helpful and I praised her for it. After Kelly gets scrubbed and lets me rinse her face, she gets half of treat #2. Then comes time to dry off-here is where I made my mistake.
I brought the whole jar of treats in the bathroom today. When it was time to dry Kelly off, Lucy wanted to give her a treat. I opened the jar and said "Just one more treat, OK Lucy?" then I looked away. In that one second, Lucy had grabbed a whole handful of treats and proceeded to feed them to Kelly! Kelly, of course, knew this was not normal and did her best to gobble them up from Lucy's hand as quickly as possible. I yelled "NO!!! Lucy stop!!!" only to have her reach her other hand in for more treats. By the time I was able to close the jar and take the treats out of Lucy's hands, I have no idea how many Kelly got. Needless to say, today was most likely Kelly's favorite bath EVER!
I'm hoping this bath will help her shedding problem. I don't know if I can keep up with the vacuuming and dusting every day! Does anyone out there have any suggestions for me????
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