Oh What a Day!

This morning at work I had a sharp pain under my left breast bone (which happens to be where there is a little foot). Anyway, I didn't think anything of it, because sometimes I get kicked there. I went to lunch with my coworkers. When we got back to the office, one of my coworkers (who keeps trying to get me to do the old wives tale things to induce labor) asked me what to do to induce labor. I said that I had read to do squats. Mind you I have jeans on. She begs me to do one! I did, and I felt like I got hit in the pelvis from the inside with a baseball. Then I got concerned because I realized Meadow wasn't as active as she normally is after lunch. I call the doctor, and they tell me to come in. Everything is normal. My cervix has thinned more, but I am still at 1 cm. The doctor I had today (who is my normal doctor) then tells us I am not an ideal candidate for induction! The doctor I had for my appointment this week said that we should talk about induction. The pains I was experiencing are contractions, and they have been about an hour apart--not lasting very long!

Yesterday, I had gotten a call saying Meadow's dresser had come in. After the fiasco at the doctors office DH and I played hooky from work to go pick it up. I finally feel like things are coming together. As of my doctor appointment today my DH (not the doctor) put me on bedrest. The only things I am allowed to do is walk, do more squats, and have sex (which are things that old wives tales say induce labor). He said I am not allowed to do my normal Saturday cleaning. He is letting me put Meadow's things away though.

Disappointing Dr Appt and other stuff

Meadow has the hiccups at the current moment. They feel so weird. I just can't get used to it.

There was no change from last appt. Well, I lost a pound...but that is minor. Anyway, with his hand up me, he pushes down on the top of my belly. I thought he was going to take her out there. I am 38 weeks and it is 12 days until my due date. The doctor we saw today said that if I don't deliver by my appt next week, which is Monday at 9:50, we will talk about scheduling an induction. I scheduled my next appt with a different doctor. I really, really do not want to be induced. I really think induction is something that should be talked about if I was at least a week past my due date or if medically warranted. I did some research, and it seems to me doctors lately are induction happy.

The doctor I meet with next week, is young and very understanding. I hope he will hear me out, or at least explain better why they would induce me. It kind of ruined my day to hear him bring up induction. It made me feel depressed all the sudden. I just want more drugs in my system than absolutely neccessary.

On the way out of the doctor office DH kept saying, "you have to come out by Monday...."

I am hoping I have Meadow before DH gets hired permantently. Through the temp agency offers him paid vacation time. I don't kow if he will get paid time off through the company as of yet. They are really understanding about him taking time off for the baby. Right now they are slow, so it would be ideal that the baby comes while he is slow. My coworkers keep saying to me, you are still here?

The Waiting Game

So, my wonderful DH took our dogs up to the mountains hiking. Today, I am trying to take it easy. I am 2 weeks away from my due date. Now I feel rested and am wondering what I can do. DH took my car, and I can't drive his truck. So, now I am waiting for two things 1) DH to get home, and 2) Meadow to decide she is ready to meet the world. I have things I need to get done, but have no real ambition to do anything. I am just sitting here...waiting for something to happen.

Anyway, my list of things I need to be doing: Laundry, Dishes, Clean the counters, Make stuff for Meadow's Room (Curtains, Dust Ruffle, Crib Bumper, Diaper Organizer, and Wall Hanging). Maybe a nice shower will motivate me...

Experiment = High Hopes

DH has trained the dogs that when he sits on the floor it is playtime. Well, with a new baby on the way this has me concerned. I don't want them thinking that they can play with the baby like they can play with "daddy".

The past two days I tried sitting and laying on the floor. Dazie brought me a toy last night. Tonight I told them, "Let's cuddle" and I laid on the floor. Both dogs came near me and laid down. To them cuddle means to lay down and go to sleep. Miischka did come up to me tonight and lick my face. I was really happy that they didn't try to play with me. I hope that if I continue to do this they will know they can't play with the baby or me if we are on the floor.

I am getting less nervous about bringing home baby with some of the research I am doing on how to prepare dogs for the baby. I am worried about Miischka, because she has never been around babies. Dazie has, and has been wonderfully behaved. She has a weird instinct about how to act around different people.

Les Miserable

I feel absolutely miserable. The heat is really getting to me. What I find to be worse about this is I can’t imagine I am somewhere North (i.e. where I am originally from). The temperatures there have been rivaling the ones here. Today, a salesman came to the door. I tried to be as nice as I could, but I couldn’t take the heat. Thank goodness the man was kind and realized the power of pregnancy. He handed me the information, and went about his way.

Last week end, I thought I was going to have my child. I was at the grocery store, and I even went later at night with the intent that I would not have to deal with people. Is that bad, I don’t want to deal with people? Anyway, I couldn’t even finish my shopping—I felt so much pressure in my pelvis. It felt like this child was going to push her way out of the way she is supposed to come out. I was on the verge of doubling over. I called DH to tell him how I was feeling. I told him I didn’t get many groceries, and if he wanted more he would have to get them himself.

Last night, I swear I could feel my skin and muscles in my belly area growing. Whatever I was feeling was not allowing me to sleep. I know I had some Braxton Hicks contractions (false labor contractions), because they were extremely irregular. Some last a long time, and the next one would last a few seconds. The timing between was really weird too. That was also enough to not allow me to sleep.

Tonight, I was talking to my neighbor on two different occasions outside. And the pressure pain in my pelvis started to come back. So, do I let this pressure continue or do I try to alleviate it? I find sitting tends to help it, and eventually it will go away, but it is so annoying.

I know in the end this will all be worth it. I am very thankful and appreciative that I had a good eight months. This last month is really getting the best of me. I feel like the pain I am experiencing now could equal childbirth.

Not much longer, and hopefully my prayers will be answered. Meaning I won’t go past my due date. I would really like to go soon, because I am impatient and in misery.

For my pregnant friends or potentially pregnant friends...please note everyone is different. You may not experience this. I really do not want to scare anyone away from having children.

OK, CC asked for it!

Here is me at 36 weeks!

What to do list?

So, tonight I was going to update my to do list of things that need to be done before the baby comes. DH has been so kind to do many of the things on the old one. I made him chocolate chip cookies to show my appreciation. They didn't turn out. I obviously do not know the difference between softened butter and melted butter. Oh well, they are still very tasty!

I actually wrote a list of things I need to do on the computer. The only thing I accomplished was e-mailing my aunt belly pics. I really appreciated that she asked for them. I was beginning to feel like no one cared. It is extremely difficult for me to be this far away from my family, and be pregnant. Hopefully, I can find a job closer to home.

DH and I are having issues with our work places. Many work environments in this area do not do anything to discourage harrassment or discrimination. Even, though DH hasn't experienced the above directly, he sees his coworkers do it. Which has made him become extremely anti-social at work. He takes his breaks in his truck. At my job...that will have to be a story for another day...because it is so obvious.

Updating

It surprises me how some of my online friends blog close to everyday. Me, I have stuff to say, but am too lazy to actually open my blog. I sometimes feel so ashamed of myself, because when those friends haven’t updated their blog in awhile I get annoyed that I have nothing to read. I know I actually have something important to say, and I am sitting her guilty I haven’t written anything.

I had a doctor appointment yesterday. I didn’t really care for the doctor I met with. I had been having pressure and pains in my pelvis. To me it felt like Meadow was pushing herself out. I tried to explain it to the doctor, and he didn’t seem concerned. He did check to see if I was dilated though, and I was 1 cm at my appointment. With each appointment where progress is measured, I get excited, and know the end is near.

There are several people I know who think I will go soon. Today, a lady I work with commented on it, because she noticed I was going to the bathroom more than normal. But, what do you do when you have someone inside of you pushing on your bladder? At that point I had only had 3 servings of water and it was late in the afternoon. The people I work with also think I seem to be dropping, and I am having an easier time breathing. It seems the past few weeks when I come into work on Monday; they comment how much bigger I have gotten.

Questions for my readers

I think my blog got spammed or something. I would like people to be able to post comments, but I think I set the blog comment moderation too high. Is there anyway I can have more control over the posts? I enjoy reading what ppl have to say, but I don't want my blog to become saturated with nonsense. This happened awhile ago, where I got comments that were completely irrelevant to the subject. Has this happened to anyone else?

Newborn Class and Doctor Appointment

On Saturday DH and I took a newborn care class. I am not really sure we got what we wanted out of the class. The nurse teaching the class is the nursery nurse and basically told us what to expect once we give birth. The class covered the first 28 days of life. At least I am not nervous about what to expect at the hospital. We do have our bags packed, now. I got the pack an play up in our room, washed the clothes, and started working on the wall hangings. DH is going to work this week to get the big stuff out of her room. I am finally starting to feel more prepared to have the baby.

My doctor appointment went well today. I am measuring perfectly for how far along I am (approx 35-26 weeks). The doctor is pretty sure she is head down already. I am not dilated or effaced yet.

Miischka is doing much better. DH is taking her on Thursday to get her stitches out and for a follow up. Her and Dazie are playing much better together. I missed it, but last night DH said that they were chewing on the same bone.

Nesting and updates

Tuesday, I came home, and had to double check to make sure I was in the right house. The interior of my house is clean! DH spent 6 hours cleaning the house! I was so proud of him, I really wish there was something I could do to show my appreciation toward him. Actually, I think I have been showing him a lot by getting him special things like a big cookie (we normally get one for birthdays or other special occasions).

DH did leave me a list of things he wanted me to do: clean up my scrapbooking mess off the dining room table, fold laundry, clean up the office, and call to tell him I love him. I got the scrapbooking mess organized and put away, laundry folded, and I called to tell him I love him. Tonight I tried to clean the office, but as I look around I am not sure I could clean and organize the office. My belly feels huge and uncomfortable, and my body is sore and tired. I have roughly 5 weeks left of this.

Anyway, if I get the office cleaned and organized DH said he build me a craft table. I think he is sick of my project mess. I wonder if he would understand why I don't have the office done. First of all there are some pretty heavy things I would need to move.

Well, I am off to at least put the clothes away.

Who said dogs needed thumbs?

I call DH on the way home from work yesterday. On Fridays the dogs are alone longer than any other day of the week, because DH goes into work earlier. I told him I would stop home, let the dogs out, and go run some errands. I wanted to make sure he didn't need anything else. He said the dogs were fine, because he left them outside with a big bowl of water when he went to work.

I had to go home anyway, because I left some essential things at home that I needed for the errands (shopping list). Imagine my surprise when the two dogs greeted me at the door. It took me a minute to realize, they figured out how to open the patio door. Now, we make sure the door is locked when we let them out. It is not going to be fun trying to kill all the flies that got in, but I am so amazed at how intelligent my dogs are.

Is it just me or is it everyone else too?

Is it really the new, cool, hip thing to be pregnant? It seems everywhere I look I see another pregnant woman. Am I just noticing this, because I am pregnant or is there a greater phenomenon going on that I am not aware? On a daily basis I see several pregnant women, and I am not counting my coworker who is pregnant. I am not complaining--I am just curious to what is causing the phenomenon? Well, there is the obvious cause...but is there something else? Have ppl gotten that bored?

A friend and I were talking today about pregnant people. Think of all the celebrities who are currently pregnant or recently had a baby. Think of the people on television who are pregnant (Abbie on ER, the people on 7th Heaven...). To top it off, everywhere I go I see a handful of pregnant people. Within a year in my neighborhood there will be 4 of us having babies. I think it is great, because my daughter will have kids to play with around her age--granted we all stay in the neighborhood.

The third time in a month!?!?!?

Miischka's thoughts on going to the vet this morning for her surgery...
She peed on the sidewalk at the vet office. She couldn't wait to get to the grass. She then tucked her tail under herself. She was not a happy camper that I had to take her back.

I got upset, because I was not allowed to take her home tonight. We get to pick her up anytime tomorrow. They wanted to keep her overnight for observation.

They took her uterus and ovaries out. They looked at her bladder. For the most part everything looked fine. They are going to send the uterus and ovaries to a lab to get analyzed to try to figure out what caused the problems she was having.

I can't want to get my sweet girl back!

To the Vet Again...

Miischka has basically been bleeding on and off since the beginning of March. We thought she was in heat in March, but with the continual bleeding we were concerned. Two weeks ago DH took her in, and they found that she was bleeding due to what was in her intestines. She was put on antiboitics and a stool softener. It worked. The problem cleared up.

Two weeks later and still bleeding. I took her into the vet. Anyway, he looked at her girl parts and concluded she may have a cysts on her ovaries or uterus. He thought she had this since birth, and was causing her incontinece. Also, her body isn't properly producing a hormone that is suposed to regulate her heat cycle, so for the past two months she has been in the first stage of heat. There are four stages of the heat cycle. The vet is really hoping exploratory surgery will help find more answers and solve the issues we are having.

We are going to get her spayed. They are going to make sure there is nothing wrong with her anywhere else. They would also like to send her uterus and ovaries to a lab to test it, and get more answers to the issues she is having. Worst case scenario is she will need to be put on meds for the rest of her life, because the incontinence will come back. Best case scenario no more heat and no more pee to clean up!

Stalk and Pounce

Tomorrow, Miischka goes in for exploratory surgery. I don't know if I blogged about that or not yet. If I haven't I will.

Tonight, she was being so silly. I about missed the season finale of Grey's Antomy bceause she was being so entertaining. She was stalking Dazie, who was laying on the floor sleeping at first. It reminded me of a wild animal stalking prey. Then Miischka would pounce on her. Dazie didn't really react. Miischka goes back into stalk mode and pounce. This went on a few more times with Dazie not reacting. Then, Dazie finally "fought" back.

Then, both dogs started wrestling. Neither dog was making a sound. It was like they were still in hunt mode. As soon, as a left the area they were playing in they stopped. It seemed like they were doing it just for me! Like they thought the mama needed entertaining.

I would highly reccomend if you have one pet getting another--two pets playing with each other is so much entertaining than TV.

Prepared Childbirth Class

I have been struggling since my last entry to write. It is not that I don’t have an array of topics to write about—it is because I have been really lazy and nothing feels appropriate to write about. My topics I need to write about don’t match my mood. I am really trying to compile a blog that I will use for Meadow's scrapbook about preparing and awaiting for her arrival.
I went to an all day crop last week end, and got a good portion of scrapbook done.

Today, we took a class entitled Prepared Childbirth. The instructor went through the material fast, but they always give you the materials you can read through later. We really worked on relaxation techniques. The class started early, meaning DH and I both lost our opportunity to sleep in. The relaxation techniques really worked for me…I almost fell asleep, and had to struggle when we got home to get a few things done with out falling asleep. After I ate a very late lunch, I took a nap (from which I just awoke).

When I got home I immediately prepared our birthing plan. I need to run it by DH to make sure he is comfortable with it. I also need to prepare our relaxation materials so we can practice. I kept picturing our wedding day or our dogs playing with our little girl on the beach. I would like to get one of those relaxation CD’s or see if DH can download one off of the internet to store on his mp3 player.

There really wasn’t anything I didn’t like about the class. I really liked the instructor’s personality. She is one of the L&D nurses. I really like the staff at the hospital. I am really happy with the choice I made as to which hospital I am giving birth at—even though it is the furthest one from our house. Good thing the labor for first timers lasts the longest… We did cover vaginal birth and c-section. I am slightly disappointed that the c-section ratio at the hospital is 25-30%, but that is inline with the National average. I was assured that they only do a c-section if absolutely necessary. For example, if they can tell the baby won’t make it through my pelvis. Also, I found out that the L&D staff is pro-breastfeeding, and will have you feed right after the baby is born.

When we toured the birthing center, I saw my OB/GYN was on duty. Actually, I see many different ones in the practice, but by my OB/GYN I mean the one who I had my preliminary appointments with. When I go for my appointments, I try to sneak a peak at the on duty schedule for the doctors. There are only two doctors in the practice, I don’t really care for, but they are still good doctors. I just don’t really care for their personalities. They are the two oldest doctors in the practice. The other doctors in the practice are young. Many of them are parents to very young children, so they draw from their recent experiences. In fact, one doctor just got back from maternity leave and another is due about the time I am.

Anyway in the class today, out of 11 babies to be in the class 1 is a boy and 1 is a surprise. I thought that was interesting. It seems like there have been a lot of girl babies born in my neighborhood lately. I thought it was easier to make a boy…

I am not going to have a truly natural childbirth, but I am going to go as long as I can with out meds. I still need to do more research on which pain meds I will be willing to take. I am not really fond of the epidural or the taking IV meds for various reasons, so I will have to really weigh the pros and cons. I am also praying that I will not need a cut episiotomy, but will take it over a tear episiotomy. Basically, my plan is to be flexible and try different things to try to relax me during labor. I hope to try different positions during childbirth that will allow for gravity to take its place. CC, I have taken note from your blog to prepare myself for walking for long periods of time. They expressed the importance of walking during the first stage of labor today. They will allow me to bring in my yoga ball or birthing ball. They don’t have them, but they do recommend them.

Answering questions

CC, I am going to try my best to answer your questions.

The lady at work goes to what she calls an All Denominational Christian church. I have been to several different Christian churches, and the things happen in this particular church I have never seen performed in another church. My friend grew up Catholic. She said there were rituals performed through out the service that did not make sense. No one could explain why it was done. Basically, people were following through out the service the pastor with out understanding why they were doing something. To me it seems like the pastor treats everyone like they are pocessed by Satan. I think what made my friend uncomfortable is no one would help her understand what is going on.

There have been several times I have asked my coworker who attends this church why she believes certain things. There have been times were she has been unable to answer my questions. She knows I am in the process of finding myself spiritually. It seems she doesn’t really understand the Bible or where to go to get answers.

I feel the Bible was created so that we can understand and get to know God. I feel this particular church does not help it’s members create an understanding relationship with God.

Does that answer your questions?

Faith and Religon

I hope I can get everything said I wish to before I fall asleep.

Awhile ago DH and I started studying the Bible together. We would like to improve our moral compass before the baby comes. We are doing it with a couple of our neighbors. We have gone a couple of times to their religious service. Since we have been studying the Bible together, I have noticed that we have become closer in our relationship. We have been communicating more easily, also.

I have noticed some changes in myself personally. I have noticed that I have become more empathetic. I actually, received a compliment from a coworker today. She is having some personal issues. I have been in a similar experience about three years ago. Actually, I could really put myself in her shoes. I think with what I have learned since studying the Bible has helped me help her stay calm. I haleped her figure out the different solutions to solve her problems. Tonight, I gave her a ride home from work. She couldn't stop thanking me for being understanding.

We also talked about religion together. She went to church with another coworker over the week end. She said there were some rituals that took place that scared her. I don't think a religious service should scare some one. I shared with her some of my religious beliefs--now that I am exploring my religion and spirituality. I think it made her more comfortable knowing, that there are a lot of organized religions that have a lot of unlogical ascpects to them. She knows that I do not believe in anything that is not logical.

There are some more aspects I would like to explore with DH. I would like to start praying with him. I know this is going to be hard, because of our different schedules. I know we have some varying beliefs, so I would like to have deeper conversations about those. I am really proud of him, because he has taken it upon himself to do more research into the specific things he doesn't understand. I have "caught" him several times studying the Bible...on his own, with no persuading from me. He gets upset when he can't make it to any of our religious studies. I really love the initiative he is taking.

I think one thing that really connects DH and I is that we enjoy learning about other people's cultures, so we can better understand where others are coming from. I love his openmindness, and he loves that about me too.

He is sometimes reluctant to tell me certain things, because he thinks I will get upset. Once he tells me, and I am cool with what he told me, he is surprised. He says he loves how I don't get bent out of shape about certain things that other women would. People he works with are jealous of how OK with things I am. He said one guy he worked with spent a good portion of his check on something. His girl friend got upset about the thing he spent his money on. DH said that I would have just been upset that he spent the money with out discussing it with me.

Strain on Marriage

Marriage: DH working 2nd shift. It is getting tough. Really the only time I talked to him all week was on the phone. Now he is outside doing yard work, so our week end is shot with him doing yard work, and me doing house work. Even though we are in the same vicinity, I miss him. It is so hard to want to do my chores on the week end, because I want to be spending the time with him. It is a definite strain, but it is best for our child and finances in the long run if she is not in daycare all day.

He did rent movies for us to watch tonight. I hope it gives us a chance to be close this week end. One movie I will not watch, as it is a horror movie, but that is something he can do when I am not around. Then I know he is staying out of trouble :P I have noticed that we are having a harder time communicating. I feel like I have so much to tell him in a little bit of time.

I am supposed to be cleaning the house. Anyway, I am finally getting around to changing my last name legally, and now I am upset about the process. I could have sworn someone told me I needed the official marriage license to do so. Reading the form, I only need the marriage certificate (and some other documents that I already have). Had I known that I would have done this 10 months ago. Now, I am trying to figure out if I need to sign the form with my maiden name or my desired married name….

Writers Block!?!?

I really want to write, but once I sit down I get severe writers block. I even write down topics at through out the day. Then when I look at the paper I wrote them on, I can’t remember what I truly wanted to say about the topic. Is this preggo brain? Maybe, I will give you updates on various topics in my life. Now, that I have jotted down more detailed notes, I realize I do have a lot to blog about. I will try to put them into smaller sections so it is not so overwhelming to read.

Digging through poo...

All week end our 9 month old puppy hasn't been herself. She was lethargic, not eating, peeing on the floor. She had puss and blood coming out of her girl parts, and has lost a lot of weight. I was able to get her into the vet today. I was thinking the worst. Since we got her 7 months ago she has had a whole aray of health problems. She has incontinence. She had several bladder infections/UTI. She had some sores on her belly. She had 2 types of worms. Basically, since we have had her she has had something.

Today, I had myself convinced that this time it was severe enough that she would have to be put to sleep. DH called me at work, and said that her intestines from her stomach on were filled with toys, bones, and other stuff she managed to eat. She is on a stool softener with an antibiotic to clear up an infection that she got as a result of being filled with toys. DH could clearly see in the Xray they took what was in her intestines. So, everytime I let her out I have to dig through her poo, to make sure everything passes.

The positive side of this is it is forcing DH and I to make sure there is nothing small laying around or foriegn objects that could be stuck into a little one's mouth. Our adult dog is mad, because we had to take away a lot of her favorite toys.

Breastfeeding Class

I took a breastfeeding class, today. I am really glad I took it. I was slightly disappointed though. It was a full class--with younger looking mothers. I was suspecting this is the first child for most of us, and not a lot of questions were asked. I was really impressed with one father--he seemed more involved and interested than the mother.

We were told that the hospital does rent breast pumps, but there is a limited number. The instructor reccomended to breast feed only for the first week and then purchase a pump we would be comfortable with. The hospital also will get you a manual pump/kit when you are discharged. They bill it to you, but the lacation specialist said it is cheaper than buying it in the store.

It was really interesting to find out that there are many more benefits for the baby's health to breastfeeding. I knew breastfed kids have stronger immune systems, but I never imagined the overall cost savings in health care or formula. Also, they said that breastfed kids generally do better on tests.

I hope when I deliver the lacation specialist is at the hospital if I have more questions or have trouble. I am not sure if I will remember the positions then. She also reccomended using two pillows instead of a Boppy. This lady was all about pillows. She said put two under the baby, one under your arm that is supporting your breast and lean back. I guess we will see what works best for us. I got a pregnancy pillow, that is suposed to help with the breastfeeding positions. I am sure if I have any struggles, I will post them here.

MIL

Mother-in-Law (MIL). I was stressed out that there might be some rough water between MIL and me. I believe she thought we were trying to exclude her from the Meadow's life. I let her know that I want her here when I give birth (well, just not in the room). She asked if she could stay awhile after the baby is born. I was actually relieved she asked. MIL doesn't work, but I feel bad expecting her to help us out.

I actually called to tell her that DH is doing well at his job. He never calls when there is good news, only bad. I hope I can get him to change that. It really bothered me that they were in this fight over Meadow's name. They are both very stubborn people too. I am not going to be the peace maker between them.

I feel really good about the things we discussed. MIL has a flair for decorating, so she gave me some good tips (that I will actually use) for Meadow's room. We talked about the birthing plan and breastfeeding. Of course her coming here. She gave me advice on finding daycare. I am not really concerned about finding daycare though. I let her know that DH is very involved in preparing for Meadow. I think she feels at ease with us being parents now.

I know we will have good and bad times with the ILs but I am glad this is turning into a positive experience.

She is Dreaming

I am watching a movie. Dazie is laying next to me on the couch. As I am getting in the into the movie, I feel taps on my leg. I look at the dog, and all for legs are moving. She has been doing this for like 10 minutes. I am really wondering what she is dreaming about.

She either knows I am talking about her, or her dream ended. He eyes opened, and lifted her hed up. She looked at me. I couldn't tell from the look in her eyes what she was thinking. I wish I knew what she was thinking. Now she is searching for a new place to sleep. I wonder if it is bothering her taht I am blogging about her...

Or maybe she just wants to sleep peacefully.

BTW, pregnant women shouldn't be able watch dramas.

About my Darling Husband

Last night DH got to feel the baby move for the first time. He thought it was really cool. I am so excited he finally got to feel her. I was getting upset, because her most active times are when I am at work or he is at work.

This year he forgot to get me a cake for my birthday. Really, that is the ONLY thing I want every year. Everything else I ask for takes me weeks to come up with. A week after my birthday, I realized I didn't get a cake. I told asked him about my cake. He forgot, because he doesn't do any grocery shopping anymore. I told him he needed to get me one from DQ because of interest due on the cake. Last night he was late coming home from work...and he showed up with the DQ cake. I was only joking. I never expected him to get the ice cream cake.

Appointment Update

I had a doctor appointment at 9 this morning. I recall before CC had her baby she blogged about how at every routine appointment you get to pee in a cup. From the post, I am/was not looking forward to going to the doctor and trying to pee in a cup with a huge stomach in the way. My fears about this came true today. The bathroom the put me in today was horrible. I practically had to sit on the toilet paper dispenser, because the toilet was so close to the wall. Then, I had to try to aim around my belly and pee into a cup the size of those little Dixie paper cups. Needless, to say I got more all over my hand than in the cup. Thank you, CC for preparing me for peeing in the cup.

Next, they took my vitals. I have only gained two pounds in the last three weeks. My BP was great. They drew blood to send to the lab, because I had to get the rhogam shot. Then we listened to the baby's heartbeat-160 bpm. The doctor measured my stomach, and I am measuring perfectly for 28 weeks. This morning my ankles were not swollen, so I didn't have to worry about that this appointment.

For those of you who do not know what the rhogam shot is:
I have a negative blood type. Negative blood types are recessive and rare. Because, there is like a 99.9% chance the Meadow will have a positive blood type, my body may have something like an allergic reaction to her blood (since our bloods will mix during birth). The shot helps counter that reaction. I will also get one after giving birth. Good thing is, they gave it to me in the fatty part of my hip. It didn't really hurt. And the nurse had very good aim today!

Oh the Heat

My house is so hot! Gas is very expensive. Therefore, I am refusing to turn on the A/C. The guy who bought our house while it was being built neglected to but ceiling fans in the room we are using for the office and the room we will be using for the baby. Now it seems greedy to me. He thought since he wasn't going to spend much time in those rooms why put ceiling fans in them? Well, what about the families who will live in the house after you?

Anyway, I think I am going to try to talk to DH to see if we can get one in the office and next month put one in the baby's room. I can tell you already it is going to be a hot summer. The builder was smart and put in the wiring so if one day some one wanted a ceiling fan and a light they could hook it up.

It is so hot in here, I am having problems breathing. The air is sooooo thick!

I am supposed to be cleaning the office, but I just can't with the heat and humidity.

As Requested

I am trying to figure out what I can blame this on. Lately, I have been losing my posts. Anyway, I am attempting this a second time. As Heather's request (and I think this has been a multiple request of hers): here are some photos:

First a wedding picture to gauge by:
About 13 weeks at my friend's mom's wedding: (I am wearing the red colored top)About 15 weeks:About 17 weeks:About 20 weeks About 24 weeks27 weeks2/10/06 Ultra Sound Pictures Hope you enjoyed!

Holy Active Baby.

I have a whole list of topics to write about. Now, I don't feel like writing about those topics. They don't seem appropriate for my current mood. I am really not in the mood to write, but it has been so long.

I really don't have an update. Well, except I can see my stomach move. It started on Sunday. I was sitting in a meeting, and looked down just as she started moving! It was the coolest thing. I thought I would freak out when I saw it. I wish DH could see it or feel it. He is never around when she is active. I find when I lay on my left side she is really active. When I do kick counts I lose counts. I don't even have to consume sugar to feel her move anymore.

I am becoming a Firefighter

About a month ago I got a assigned to a big project. The project was a result of a big mistake someone who is no longer at the company made. I basically had to figure out how to correct the problem.

Now, I am working on another project...that is a result of somebody trying to cover up a mistake. This one actually has to due with Federal regualtions.

I must be good at what I do, otherwise why would I be putting out all these fires?

I did get slightly upset with my boss about the project today, because she misguided me. When I was almost done, she realized her mistake, so I had to start over :(

I guess I know what I am working on tomorrow.

Week ends like this :)

The weather has been gorgeous. Friday, night we went to a couple of differnt neighbors' houses. We had such great conversation. It is the type of conversation I yearn for--Adult intellictual conversation. Across the street we had the best chocolate cake I had ever had. MMMMM.... OK, back to reality. Yesterday, we got the crib and dresser ordered. I can't wait to get it in. I really wish we could have the nursey done by now...and I guess that is more work DH will have to do on his own. I am praying that we get it in before the baby is born.

BIL came over for lunch yesterday. DH and BIL have never been close in the past, but now that they are both out of the house they get along great. I have yet to meet his GF. She didn't come yesterday, because she had to study.

I feel so great after this week end. I got to spend good quality time with good quality people.

Really!?

DH and I went today to pick out a crib for the baby. USA Baby is having their Once a Trimester sale, so I thought we should go look to see what we would like. DH found something he really liked. I like it too, but it actually met all of his standards. Which are very high. MIL and FIL offered to buy the crib and dresser for us awhile ago. Once, he found something he liked he called MIL. Here is the crib we would like to ge
While we were checking out (mind you DH is on the phone) MIL brings up our choice of name. She HATES it. I knew that is what she was saying when I heard him say the following things, "Let's talk about this later." (we were in a public place) and "Now, it's really not your decision now is it?"

She thinks Meadow will get picked on, because of her name. I was so proud of DH, because he stood up to her for himself. He has liked the name since before we were dating. We have even talked about other options, but Meadow is what we feel is right. DH had a very good point though. Kids are cruel, and if they want to pick on you they will find something to pick on you for. MIL said to DH that she never got picked on. Later in the conversation he said she even picked on him. No wonder she never got picked on, she was probably the bully.

Both DH and I got picked on growing up. DH has a very common first name...and he got picked on for that. I got picked on for various things. Once my peers realized that what they were saying was not bothering me they tried to find a new topic. I have found that many times kids get picked on because the bully is jealous of the kid they are picking on.

A rare beautiful morning

This morning I awoke with James Blunt's "You're Beautiful" stuck in my head. I really love that song. I was really rather surprised to have it stuck in my head since it had been so long since I heard the song. I could hear it so clearly--like James Blunt was performing the song in my bedroom for me this morning. The harsh reality came when I opened my eyes to see two dogs anxious to go outside. Damn dogs, can't you wait five more minutes so I can enjoy my dream world?

For some reason having that song stuck in my head made it so much easier to get ready go my day. I AM NOT A MORNING PERSON, but hearing "You're Beautiful" playing in my head just made me smile all morning. I would just like to listen to the song over and over again. I don't even own the song.

My birthday is Tuesday, and since before Valentines Day I have been telling DH that I want the James Blunt CD. He just thinks I should download it from iTunes. I do not believe having the MP3 and owning the CD are the same thing. A CD is tangible. An MP3 could get lost, or easily deleted. Anyway, if DH doesn't get it for me, I don't care what our budget is--I will get it myself (my birthday present to myself).

I came home for lunch to see DH. That is rare, too. On the way back to work I heard the song "Trees" by Marty Casey. He was on the show Rockstar: INXS. It is the song he wrote on the show. I really like that show too. I was really rooting for Marty to win. I think he has such a great stage presence. I love his voice. I think the song kind of describe my relationship with DH.

This brings me to a new topic. There was a musician once who was criticizing society. The criticism said something to the effect of, the problem with society is the fact that people don't understand the music they are listening too. Rather they are just hearing the song, not really listening to the song. I find that DH does that. I love to listen to the song. I like to feel what the writer or singer is experiencing. I think music is so emotional. Those who hear songs and not listen to songs are out of touch with their emotions. I could really take this in so many directions.

I have some real issues with people. I can honestly admit that there have been points in my life where I have committed the same issues. I live with myself knowing that those things are in the past...I can overcome them and make my life better. Here are things I can’t stand about others: Hypocrisy, Believing they are a Victim, Liars, Backstabbers, Believing they are holier than thou. What really bothers me about it is they go through life thinking everyone else has the problem. Really I think it is them. I deal with these people everyday at work. They have no integrity in my mind.

Sorry to end on such a negative. Music just makes me go through so many things. Hmmmm…maybe I won’t end now this song has really got me into something.

I am listening to “Follow Through” by Gavin DeGraw. It is another one of my favorites. It reminds me of how I feel about my husband. I can’t help but smile when I hear the song. Let me see if I can think of the lines that touch my soul so much: “I haven’t felt like this in so many moons.” “Since you want to be with me, You’ll have to follow through with every word you say.” “All I really want is you, you to stick around. I’ll see you everyday, but you have to follow through.” “The words you say to me are unlike anything that’s ever been said.” I don’t want to type all the lyrics, but they really do touch me.

Which brings me to music and the baby—I haven’t really been listening to music as much as I did prior to cohabitating with DH. Music has always been more important to me than watching TV. DH watches a lot of TV. Anyway, I am praying that Meadow will have my sense of music enjoyment. Don’t get me wrong DH enjoys music—but he is way more selective than me. I enjoy a wide array of music. The only genre that doesn’t appease my ears is rap…

Being that I won’t have DH around all the time, I should take the time apart to get Meadow adjusted to all sorts of music. I hope she is in touch with her emotions as I am…

DH's New Toy (that I get to use too)

I have about 3 months to go...Since I realized how close that really is and how unprepared I am, I have literally been having nightmares. They are usually about having the baby and not having anything besides what we already have (swing and some winter clothes (6-9 mos).

Yesterday, I had a mad craving for pizza. DH and I decided to be adventureous and try a new place. It was so delish. Anyway, afterwards DH asked if we should look for a different vehicle. On the way to the pizza place, he kept suggesting we test drive a Land Rover Freelander. In my mind there is NO way we can afford a Land Rover. I said we can test drive one to see what it is like. We went to the Land Rover dealership. All they had on the lot was one with leather interior. With having two dogs I am not keen on leather interior. We do take the dogs hiking a lot. Which is another reason for wanting to get a bigger vehicle.

In my mind I still had my heart set on a Subaru Outback. I know several outdoorsy people who own one and love it!. After test driving the Freelander we decide that it would be really tight on the budget to get. So, we go to Carmax. They had a fully loaded Outback. That was out of the price range. Then there were two Freelanders with cloth interior and that were base models. I am not one for bells and whistles...I am more about the vehicle meeting the needs of our growing family. So, we got a Freelander and traded in my car.

Now I feel a little more prepared to have the baby, and more comfortable driving my vehicle. I hated sitting so close to the ground and then trying to get out of the car with out falling out. I felt like I had to do acrobat to get out of the compact car. And, I really don't feel that I am that big yet!

Prenatal Appointments and Work

Today, I got an e-mail from my supervisor saying that she need a doctor's note for all my appointments. I found this rather odd, since it never seemed to be an issue before with me or anyone else (especially people who are ill). I went and asked the H.R. manager what the protocol is for prenatal visits. I told her that my supervisor asked for a doctor's note. She said the company did not require a doctor's note for any prenatal visit. She was actually expecting me to go more often than I do. She said the only reason the company would want a doctor's note is if I was to be on bedrest or work restriction. She said they were understanding that pregnant women have some needs (like getting up every hour to stretch and walk), and that she thinks that is perfectly normal.
Anyway, after answering my questions on being pregnant at work, she started asking me questions about my supervisor. She seemed really curious if I was being discriminated against, treated differently, or if I had any general complaints about my supervisor. What I did say was, "She doesn't treat me any different than she did before I was pregnant." Prior to my pregnancy she seemed to discriminate against me, so nothing has really changed. Now, I wish I would have said something, because I have people willing to back me up, and I keep a journal of what she does and says to me if it is negative or unfair. I don't think I have enough though. She seems to have issue with white people esp with white males. That is company known. Now that I have had time to think about it, I think the H.R. manager was digging for dirt on my supervisor. The company is trying to "clean house".
I wish I would have told her the things that were happening, but my review is coming up. I didn't want anything I say to H.R. to impact my review if it gets back to my supervisor.
DH thinks they are want to promote me when I get back from mat leave. My supervisor has done some pretty stupid things (like argue with the company President over a $100,000 mistake she is essentially responsible for).

Not for the weak stomach (tmi ahead)

Hemeroids, diaherrea, and then some.

So Sunday, I took a few hour nap. When I woke up, I went to the bathroom. I just had to pee. When, I stood up I noticed blood in the toilet. It looked like the amount I have when I am menstrating. I called the nurse on call. She had the doctor call me back. The doctor told me come into the hospital to make sure it isn't anything serious. I go into the hospital, they hook me up to all these machines to monitor the baby. A nurse looked me over. She thought it was just a hemerroid. The doctor came in and confirmed--the bleeding was from just a hemerroid. I guess they are a pregnancy commonality.

I would have never guessed I would have hemerroids. I was not in any pain. I didn't have a bowel movement. So, the only symptom I had was the bleeding.

My DH is so wonderful. He was so concerned about the situation. He actually insisted I go in.

Then, we get home, to find that Dazie had diaherrea. I felt so bad for the little girl. Maybe it was just sympathy for her mommy. I was the one who got to clean it up.

Doctor appt:
Monday, I had a doctor appointment. I got tested for gestational diabetes (which I passed with flying colors). Friday morning I woke up with a pain in my leg. Stretching my leg made the pain worse, and so did trying to massage the area. I had to pee in the worst way, and there was no way I could make it the short distance from my bed to the bathroom. The pain faded to a gentle reminder by my appointment Monday morning. I brought it up to the doctor. He referred me to get an ultra sound done on my leg. He said there is a 1 in 10 chance it could be a blood clot.

The appointment is scheduled for Thursday (tomorrow). The pain is gone. I was going to call to cancel the appointment. I talked my mom tonight. She was away on business for since the incident, so I was unable to tell her. I told her that the pain went away. She said that I should keep the appointment. She told me that a similar thing happened to my grandmother, and mom thought the blood clot travelled to her heart, or was travelling to her heart. I guess I can't disobey my mother.

I also graduated from an appointment every four weeks to one every three weeks. It gives DH and I more quality time together. DH is working second shift indefinately. I gotta go--Miischka is being a pain in the butt (so I guess I do have some sort of pain).

Lazy Days

So, my plan for the day was to make my mother in law a case for her laptop. I just didn't have the ambition to do it. The past two days I haven't been feeling well, so I took the hint from my body to rest. I ended up taking two naps today. It is not that I feel sick...I just plain feel fatigued. Which just intrigued a thought:

When I was on the quest to lose weight for my wedding, I wish I would have known about this or at least had a correlation about carrying around an extra 10 pounds. Really, I have gained about 10 pounds thus far. Maybe since I am more conscience about my weight gain (I keep track so I know the baby is growing) instead of the normal weight "sneaking up on me," but I have noticed that I am getting more fatigued physically. Before, when I gained weight I didn't realize how tired I was. Hopefully, now that I made the correlation, post giving birth I will be more motivated to get the extra weight off.

I did muster up the ambition to finish scanning in DH and my baby pictures for Meadow’s scrapbook. I printed about half when I ran out of yellow ink. Hopefully, I will be able to get some tomorrow. I completed two pages of her scrapbook—one with her first ultra sound picture, and the other with some of the clearer ultra sound pictures from our February ultra sound. As I was adhering the paper and pictures to the pages I thought, “What if the baby is really a boy and they didn’t catch it in the ultra sound?” I made sure the journal entry in the scrapbook explains why we think she is a girl. Hopefully, it is not wrong. Either way we will be happy.

I am sort of upset about scrapbooking tonight. I kept getting something blue all over the layouts. I really don’t know what it was coming from. I had to keep washing my hands. I had to reprint my journal entry three times. There are still some traces of blue on one of the pages. I wonder if it is coming from my paper trimmer or tape runner. Both are blue. My mouse pad is also blue, but I just did a crocking test on that. It passed.

I didn't want to depress you

I couldn't blog last week, because my mom was here. I had a great time with her. We really didn't do much. We sat around and talked. It was soooooo nice to be able to spend time with her, again. It really made me homesick having her here. Taking her to the airport was extremely difficult. I really wanted to board the plane with her. Beautimous would have loved that (wouldn't you...I know you are reading this).

This week there has been so much negativity in my life, I didn't feel like rehashing it here. I don't want this to turn into some big complain spot for me. Work isn't going well, both dogs had the touch of some sickness,I keep hearing where I have lived in WI keeps getting snow (I love snow), and I will stop there or you will think I am trying to write an old country song.

I know it is Wednesday, and the week is not over. Here is to hoping the week gets better. I am going to make a list of 5 good things that happened this week:
1. I put Meadow's swing together and it works.
2. I came across a potentially good opportunity (I can't blog about this now, but I will in the future).
3. Meadow has finally moving consistently. I can feel her on the inside and outside. She is most active between 3-5 PM.
4. I finally hooked the scanner up, and started on Meadow's scrapbook. I needed to scan in the Ultra Sound pictures and baby pictures of DH and I.
5. DH fixed the tail light on my car.
6. I talked to Beautimous last night. And it is really her fault I got the scanner hooked up. By the way, I got yelled at for by DH for doing it, because I could have hurt myself or the baby. Don't worry I didn't tell DH that it was you who helped me decide to get it out of the garage.

Yes, I know that was six, and I do know how to count. I figured 6 just means I have more good happen than I thought this week.

Feeling better

I took Heather's advice. I scheduled times to work on my projects. I actually feel better about it. Dropping my packages off at the post office helped a lot too. Now, I have misplaced the pattern for the baby's room. Maybe that is a sign I need to slow down. So, I will have to work on the scrapbook for now.

Something I also feel better about is that Miischka went into heat last night. The vet said that there is a good chance that once she goes into heat, that her incontinence won't be as big of a problem or will completely go away. We are praying it will completely go away. She basically lays on the kitchen floor or in her kennel, so clean up is easy. She won't lay on her bed anymore. I wonder if she is afraid to get it dirty. So, now I just need to make sure I keep an eye on the neighbor dogs...that they stay out of our fence!

Finishing

This week end I finished two projects. The first was a dog bed for Miischka. She won't lay on it, but has a definate problem when Dazie does. She knows it is hers. Miischka prefers to lay on the kitchen floor next to the water and food dishes.

The second project is two almost three weeks late. It is for my Godchild's birthday. I made her a poncho. It turned out cute. When I figure out hot to post pics, I will.

I got these two projects done this week end, and I still don't feel the satisfaction I feel when I finish something. I still feel like I need to do something with each project. And now there is the next set of projects for me to do.

I found fabric for the baby's room. I need to make the window fixtures, crib bumper, crib dust ruffle, and organizer. Each project looks easy, but I am now not looking forward to them. Hmmm...maybe I currently discontent. Maybe I should start on the scrapbook for baby. Who knows maybe I just have too many projects lined up. Maybe I will feel better once I get the poncho in the mail...

Baby and Puppy appointments

This morning I had another doctor appointment. It was just a normal check up. DH and I got there about 10 minutes early, and still had to wait for 10 minutes after the appointment was suposed to start. Then I got a different tech than I normally do. She seemed like she was over her head or not all there.

Since I go to a rather large practice, and each doctor takes a turn being on call at the hospital I will be delivering at I meet with a different doctor each time. I really liked the bedside manner of the doctor I had today. As a matter of fact a lady I work with raves about her. Anyway, she said my BP and weight gain were perfect. She said the ultra sound results were good and the Quad Screen I had done last appointment was good (meaning no birth defects). I could tell she genuinely enjoys her job. She took time to answer my questions in depth, and she told me never to hesitate to call. I felt good about that.

When we got home, I called the vet to order Miischka's meds. The vet expressed discussed with me the various treatment options if the pills don't work. There is an option of surgery, but he didn't know much about it. He said he would do more research, and contact a specialist. When we first took Miischka to the vet over this problem they said it usually corrects itself after her first heat cycle. She is 8 months old, and dogs start going into heat between 6 and 12 months. Almost everyday, I check to see if she has gotten her period.

DH and I decided that surgery will be our last route. We really don't want to go there, because at this point the side affects are worse than the actual problem. The meds help it. If she doesn't get better after her first cycle we will see the specialist to see if there are any other options. There are other drugs available, but again they are almost too powerful for puppies.

Drama

Last night, I was online. I took a big drink of root beer. I honestly thought I dribble down my shirt, but when I looked down there was a wet spot where my nipple is. My boobs are leaking already. It didn't last long, but it freaked me out. I know it is normal. Just in case it happens again I bought nursing pads to stick in my bra.

Today, I had to drag myself out of bed. I really had to talk myself into going to work. I hate Mondays so much. Anyway, I was there for two hours. DH called my cell phone. He told me he needed me to come home ASAP. He cut his finger and needed me to take him to the ER. So, I speed home, and take him to the ER. On the way I asked him what happened. Apparently, he thought he should take the boat down to the lake to make sure it is still working properly. He tried to hitch it to his truck and it rolled forward. He tried to prevent it from hitting his truck, and got his finger stuck in between. It cut his finger.

We were in the ER for 3 hours. I really need to complain. The hospital I took him to is pretty big. I was reading their brochure while waiting. It said they see 100,000 patients a year. I really think they could be more efficient and see more patients. First you sign in when you walk in. Then you sit down in the waiting area. Someone calls your name, and you get checked in. You give the exact same information to the person who is checking you in (can you see where a step can be skipped?). Then you wait in the waiting area. A nurse calls you into a room. She takes your vitals, and looks at the wound. By this time we were there an hour. That nurse decides where you should go. We go into an exam room. Where we wait another hour for another nurse to show up. She asks us the for the same information the first two people did. She did take down more detail though.

She told us the doctor would be right in to see us. She didn't mention it would be 30 minutes later. Mind you at this point I missed my snack time, didn't have any water, and am pregnant. Before the Dr. Came I journeyed to find a water fountain and bathroom. Poor DH also needed to visit the facilities, but couldn't because he was waiting for the Dr. The Dr finally came. Looked at his finger decided he needed stiches and left. He wasn't gone long, and he came back with a kit to do the stitches. He stitches up DH's finger, and tells us a tech would be in to clean his hand up and bandage it. Another 30 minutes later a nurse comes in and says something about a tetanus shot. The Dr never mentioned the shot to us. Anyway, she leaves and comes back about 15 minutes later to administer the shot. She said a tech would be in to clean him up.

10 minutes later the tech shows up. Apparently, they were all on lunch. I know this because a nurse came in the room with him, and they were discussing what they ate. GRRRR. Please, I am missing my job I really don't want to be at today, but still I don't want to suck up my sick time. The nurse leaves and the tech cleans up my husbands hand. He is paying more attention to me then what he is doing, and hurt DH worse.

We checked out, and went and got DH's prescriptions. I got him home and he took his first dosages. Shortly after he fell asleep. His hand is still in pain, but at least it is not as bad as it was. He found that my pregnancy pillow works great for keeping his hand in a position that doesn't hurt as much. I am just hoping he will let me sleep with it tonight, but I will be understanding if he wants it.

Since you all are dying to know...

At first the baby did not cooperate. Legs were crossed at the ankles. Then, the baby decided that we really did need to know a spread her legs nicely for us to see girl parts! It's a girl.

She kept bringing her hands to her face and to her mouth. I think she has my nose. Her name will be Meadow Nicole Anna.

Forgive me readers for I have had nothing to say

Not really, but I just didn't know how to make it interesting. Saturday, DH and I went to look at cars. Currently, my compact car is working fine, but once baby comes that won't be the case. We found a few we like, but are going to wait to see how his job situation is closer to my due date. We also took a tour of the hospital and a pregnancy class. The class discussed nutrition. Even though I used to try to eat according to the food pyramid I didn't realize I was getting enough food. I can't even get down enough food now to cover the pyramid for a prego lady.

Friday we find out the sex of the baby...deeming he/she cooperates. I figure if it is a boy he will show us, and if it is a girl she will have her legs crossed.

I will try to think of something interesting to say tomorrow, so I don't have to bore you with dull stories.

I feel so guilty

I hope this doesn't happen to me with my children.

Our dogs need to be tied up until my DH can get a fence up around the yard. Both dogs keep getting out of the underground fence, and running around the neighborhood. I trust my dogs, but they barrel at people and animals with great energy. It tends to intimidate other dogs and people.

Lately, and mainly at night, there has been a cute shelty visiting our yard. Last night, the dogs figure out how to open the door. They stayed in the yard with the shelty. They came when I called them. Anyway, at about 10:30 tonight the shelty was on our back deck. Both dogs woke up from a deep sleep, and ran to the door. They were barking and whining to get out to play. I saw the shelty standing on the other side of the door. I felt so horrible, that I could not let them out to play with their friend. DH was sleeping, and there is no way I can manage both dogs in he night alone. They get too excited when they are playing, and don't listen to me. DH has a special whistle they respond to. Dazie and Miischka have played with this dog a few times. The three actually play very well together.

I wish I could take the dog in. He/she seems like such a sweet dog, but timid of people. I am tempted to write a letter and distribute it to the neighborhood. DH thinks he saw the dog chained up at a house at the beginning of the subdivision. I would like to let them know the dog frequents our house, and ask what they would like with the dog.

Update from yesterday

I received an e-mail today stating that my friend gave birth to a baby girl yesterday. Her oldest daughter is excited to be a big sister.

Also, is it necessary that the President has to talk for 2 hours on every channel? I am missing my Tuesday night shows. Not that I don't care about the State of the Union, but I would rather read it. Besides, I know somewhere in those 2 hours he is going to say something to anger me.

Keeping people updated

Somewhere in the rush of life I lose track of my friends, and they lose track of me. I have an IRL (In Real Life) friend (who I will call Beautimus), who informed me through IM that I need to update my blog.

This week end I e-mailed a bunch of friends who did not know I am pregnant, among other things, to let them know what is going on in my life. I got two responses back that made me believe that they did not get that I am pregnant. Which makes me laugh, because I know I tend to ramble--causing them to miss something. Hopefully, through this blogging experience I will get better at story telling.

Amongst the congrats, I find out a friend is going to be induced today. This is her second child. I keep checking my e-mail to see if her husband has had a chance to e-mail us the news! This was first I heard she was pregnant. LOL. She said that she thought another friend (K) would update everyone. I assumed the same with my pregnancy. I thought for sure my best friend would tell K, and my friends from college would find out through the grapevine. My friends are not gossips, but I we talk amongst ourselves. It isn't that we want dirt on eachother...it is just very hard to get ahold of our large group. We have busy lives. Thank God for e-mail.

Anyway, I should check my e-mail to see if any baby news has been delivered!

routine appt

Today, I had a routine doctor appointment. I opted to get a test done that screens for birth defects. I would like to prepare myself as much as possible. I have only gained 2 pounds at this point, and I am 17weeks 4 days. I got to listen to the baby's heartbeat. It is 152.

I also talked to the doctor about the back pains I am having. Turns out I have siatica (not sure how it is spelled). He gave me some options to try. Other things I have tried have not worked. He reccommended a Tylonel and a heat pad on the lowest setting. The pain usually occurs a couple hours before bed, and hinders my sleep.

Also, my skin has become very sensitive to the elements. I can't wear jewelry anymore.

DH didn't come with, his is recovering from Bronchitis.

I scheduled an ultra sound for 2/10. I can't wait to find out the gender of the baby.

Damn the cravings

So, at 4:00 PM I was craving fried onions. So, I made hashbrowns with onions for myself for supper. Now, I am craving chocolate milk! I feel like such a bottomless pit. Hmmm...maybe I will just make use the chocolate syrup and make some. OK, I made some. Now, just wait for the next craving, and hoping I have it on hand.

I can't leave the house because DH is really sick. He needs to me to be here for him incase he needs something. He can't even get out of bed.

I did...SOMETHING!!!

So, I layed out fabric for the shell of the dog bed. I need to sew that, then I can start working on the pillow insert part. I just don't feel like sewing this late at night. I figured out my fear...fear the pups would get in the way, and I would lose my cool. It happened, and I did. I almost beat Miischka, so I put them outside. Hopefully, in the next 24 hours I can sew the shell...

Now, I am hungry. What to eat...what to eat.

I am so glad Miss Oklahoma won. I didn't like Miss Georgia's answer to the question about what most shaped your life. I don't think she really answered the question. I would have just gotten to the point as they only have 30 seconds to answer the question.

HMMM...what should I be doing?

That is the question I do not want to ponder tonight. I am parked on the couch with laptop infront of me, and just beyond that is the TV with the Miss America pageant. I haven't watched it in a long time. I can't remember the last time I watched the pageant. I think my life got int the way of TV watching at one point. Which is completely OK. I like the dress Miss South Carolina has on (it is when they are announcing the first contestants to go on).

Now for those of you wondering what I should be doing....DH wants me to sew a dog bed for Miischka. We bought one for Dazie awhile ago for $15, and we can't find one that is that affordable...until Hancock had a great sale. Why am I neglecting craft? It is not that I don't want to do it. I am almost afraid to. I am really not sure where the fear originates from.

Other projects I have on my plate: a poncho for my God daughter, accessories for the baby's room (bumper, organizer, drapes, and dust ruffle). I also want to make a scrapbook of me and DH growing up for the baby. Shoot, I forgot to ask MIL for pics of DH. I will have to e-mail her. She spent the night her last night.

I love James Denton. He is hosting the pageant. Hmmm...a lot of Southerners made the top 10. Well I am going to cut out the pattern from fabric...who knows maybe I will blog more.

Hormones

Today, has been a good day. I tried to blog yesterday, but DH and I got into a huge arguement during the writing of it. Yesterday, nothing put me in a good mood. DH even took me to Cold Stone Creamery. Twice I blew up at him. He really did nothing to deserve it. At one point, I said, "I don't think you understand what I am going through, or what I am feeling, the pain I am in." I am having a lot of back pain.

I believe he thinks I should be able to do everything like I normally did. I can only do chores in spurts. Next week, I have a dr appt, so I will talk to him about it then. DH has been getting on my case about the house going to crap. I really hope I hit the nesting stage soon. I need to get ready for that garage sale.

I started working on some sewing projects. I hope once I know the sex and name of the baby I will be more motivated to do something. I was looking at Heather's scrapbook stuff on e-bay. That got some wheels in my head turning. I really would like to create a scrapbook to welcome the baby.

Today, at work we were talking about what the gender of the baby is. A woman I work with believes it is a girl. Others believe it is a boy. I just want a healthy baby. Although, I have a puppy with health problems, and I love and care for her the same as I love and care for our healthy adult dog. One dog needs a little more attention. The other just wants it.

Tonight DH and I really connected with parenting. Dazie has really gotten spoiled and sassy about getting her way. She thinks it is OK to be up on the furniture. Before Miischka we never condemned it, but now my peebutt wants to be on the furniture all the time. Miischka is still having bladder control issues. Even with the new medicine, she is still having issues. It is only at night while she is sleeping though. She just needs a bath everyday. Anyway, Dazie has gotten into the habbit (just like a kid) of if Daddy says "no" ask Mama (and vice versa). She was trying to get up on the couch and DH said no, and then she came by me only to get another no. Then she started with the begging for food with the same results. I am so happy that we can agree and enforce what eachother says with the dogs. I hope this happens with our children.

I hope I didn't ramble.

Short term goals

God did not intend for me to do certain things. I am very aware of the things I cannot do (struggle with). With a baby on the way these things are things I need to get better at and master. I have never been much of a housekeeper. What I need to do in the next couple of months...is get my house spotlessly clean, organize, declutter.

Actually, I am good with organized clutter, but I will admit I am a HUGE pack rat. So, is DH. It will be interesting trying to get him to downsize. Some of my neighbors and I are having a garage sale in March. I will need to get everything organized for that. My plan is to take the money from the garage sale and put towards a savings account for the baby.

Homesick?

I need to vent. Some people are so slow. This is what I mean. From May 2004-July 2005, DH was looking for a job in the area we lived in, in Wisconsin. He even looked 1 hour + radius around our home. McDonald's wouldn't even get him in for an interview. I made good money and we could make it on what I made. We were fine. But, still it had to be emasculating for me to be bringing home the bread and him nothing. We learned to enjoy a boring life.

anyway, I was looking at a news site for the area I grew up in Wisconsin. They recently, had a revelation: "According to a new study $5 billion dollars in household net worth left Wisconsin between 1995 and 2000 by losing highly-paid, well-educated, people.They're moving out of state faster than those from other states are coming to Wisconsin.Leaders of the Wisconsin Taxpayers Alliance say its mostly 20 somethings and seniors leaving.The researchers think they're chasing what they perceive to be better economic opportunities, better weather, and lower taxes in other states.Experts say it translates into less tax revenue here, fewer assets for state banks and less support for local charities." According to a new study $5 billion dollars in household net worth left Wisconsin between 1995 and 2000 by losing highly-paid, well-educated, people.They're moving out of state faster than those from other states are coming to Wisconsin.Leaders of the Wisconsin Taxpayers Alliance say its mostly 20 somethings and seniors leaving.The researchers think they're chasing what they perceive to be better economic opportunities, better weather, and lower taxes in other states.Experts say it translates into less tax revenue here, fewer assets for state banks and less support for local charities. http://www.weau.com/home/headlines/2164647.html

It took the state 10 years to become concerned about educated and wealthy people leaving the state. Now, I wonder what are they going to do about the situation? Really, I would love to move back, but what is the point if we can't find jobs. The company I was working for downsized, so isn't a logical choice for me to go back. There is another company I would love to work for (actually there are a couple), because they are good strong companies. I would love to live close to my family. My mom doesn't like to travel, but if she could make it to see me in a couple of hours she would be willing.

More about my puppies

Recap: Dazie is our 2 year old and Miischka is our 6 month old puppy.

Last night, Dazie was chewing on a bone in the area between our living room. We have an open format house. Miischka kept annoying DH and me. She is not allowed on the furniture, but yet she tried to crawl on our laps. I had let recently let her out, fed her, and filled up the water bowl. Finally, after a half hour I say, "Miisch, do you need to go potty?" She heads to the back door. I get to the back door and open it. Miischka runs out onto the deck, and Dazie decides she would rather be outside than chewing on a bone. Dazie bolts outside and Miischka bolts to the bone. She lays down and begins chewing on it. Mind you there are 3 more bones laying on the floor nearby. 2 of them are the same type of bone. We got outsmarted by a dog....

For the pregnant pet owners reading this, have you seen K-9 Karma? It is about a yoga instructer who teaches with her dog. Anyway part of the show she helps people with different things in their life. She is pregnant and she has been giving tips on how to prepare your pets for the baby. One thing she suggested is start getting baby products around the house--get the animals used to the smell. Try to get a tape of baby noises (crying, cooing, etc), and play it periodically. She told one lady to set the baby's room up as she plans to have it. Anyway, I started using baby lotion and baby shampoo, and now the dogs want less with me....hmmmm I hope this means they won't bother the baby.

Responses

When, we find out what the baby is I will let you all know. I believe it is 6 more weeks until we find out!!!!! Not that I am counting. I just got DH to agree on the middle name for a boy. I didn't really have to convince him though...

I have a lot of friends and coworkers who think the baby is a girl. I guess we will see. If it is a boy, it will probably take after DH and be somewhat of and exhibitionist. I understand what you are saying CC, about your little guy having his hand on his penis. NOTE: My DH doesn't go in public naked, but likes to be as close to naked as possible. Now that we live in an area where people don't give notice before showing up, we makes sure he has pants and a shirt on while we are awake.

New Year's Eve, our neighbor got locked out his house. We were the only ones home in the neighborhood with a spare key to their house. DH only had boxers on when the neighbor showed up. He was scattering for pants and a shirt. I felt really bad for our neighbor. He lives five house away, we have large lots, and he didn't have shoes on.

Well, I need to think about going to bed. I have to be to work an hour early. They need help doing inventory, and they start doing inventory at 7. My supervisor has made it extremely known that I am not to be lifting anything heavy. I am glad she is understanding, but I get annoyed at her over protectiveness. I sort of understand though, her sister has had two sets of twins...

BTW, not that any of you know what I look like, but I got my hair cut tonight. I got about 6" cut off the length. My hair is shoulder length now, and I got layers put it. It looks super cute. I think my husband thinks it's sexy.

Well good night.

Sweet Dreams

I did it! When I was at work, I thought about what I could blog about, and wrote it down!

Last night, I had a real vivid dream. In the dream I was having some issues with my pregnancy, and the doctor got us in right away. They did an ultra sound to make sure everything was OK. There were two nurses in the room. The first nurse left, and the second one got quiet and said, "She was not suposed to do this." Of course we were curious to what the first nurse did wrong, so we inquired.

She asked us if we were interested in finding out the sex of the baby. We told her "Yes," and she showed us the picture. On the bottom it said "Baby Boy (Our Last Name)."

I told a lady at work and she said that the dream meant that I am having a girl. Like it matters the sex of the baby. We really want to know, so we can prepare for the baby. I feel bad calling the baby, "baby," I would like to call him or her by the name we picked out for the baby. I would like to start making wall hangings.

I am starting to get excited about the baby. I wish I could have it now. 9 months just seems to long to wait.

Down sides of pregnancy

So, last night I wake up at 3:30 am. I have cramps from my sternum to my pelvis. They were worse than anything I have ever experienced. I went to the bathroom, and everything seemed fine. The cramps were mostly gone by time I went to work. They seemed to go down when I had to walk around the yard looking for my dog (who I swear is acting like a real teenager). Someone told me the cramps are my body's way of preparing for pregnancy and birth.

Also, at work they won't let me do physically demanding things. Today, they wouldn't let me sit on the floor and look through a box. My husband on the other had thinks I should do everything he can. Which my body does not agree with.

Fear

Today, I was reflecting on what CC said about not all Southerners are close minded. Actually, I had a conversation with a lady at the park this morning which got me thinking more of it. Specifically, the people I am referring to are the people I work with. Through talking to this lady, I realized that these 4 ladies aged 24-49 let fear run their lives. I swear one of the ladies is afriad of her shadow. I believe they are afraid of change.

One lady used to live in an unsafe neighborhood, and now she lives in a really safe neighborhood. She still won't leave her house afterwork regardless of how light or dark it is outside.

Reflections of 2005

There is a message board on iVillage I used to frequent and the community leader posted some questions that I thought would be good for me to ponder and reflect on.

What were your top 5 accomplishments for 2005?
1. Housebreaking my Siberian Husky puppy.
2. Got married.
3. Moved 1,000 miles away from my family.
4. Got pregnant.
5. Found a job after being laid off for a month and a half.

How have you grown? It has definately been a growth experience relocating so far from a familiar life, to one that seems very foriegn to me. I am experiencing culture shock. Which is odd, because I spent two weeks in France eight years ago, and did not experience culture shock. One thing I am learning is how to deal with close minded people. I am growing by learning how to deal with more difficult personalities.

What makes you feel proud about yourself? Watching my two dogs, and knowing they are healthy and well behaved, because of the care I give them. Spending time in my house, in a good neighborhood, and being able to afford the payments. Being loved by my husband. Not gaining any weight during my first trimester. I have been able to get around any obstacle in my life to get to my goal (I have overcome a lot of adversity and proven negative statics about my upbringing wrong---according to statistics I should not have went college)...So here is to setting awesome goals in 2006 to make me a better person, wife, mother, daughter, and friend.

Pregnancy

Heather brought up some good topics for me. I would have blogged yesterday, but we got home really late from a wedding. Yes, we went to a wedding on a Wednesday night.

Yesterday, we had a doctor appointment. My DH was able to come with. The doctor just made sure I didn't have swelling in my ankles. Everything must have been good, because the doctor didn't say anything negative or alert my attention to worry about it. That is one thing I really like about the practice I go to, the doctors don't get you worked up over something you don't need to worry about. They don't say you have 1 in a million chance...they believe if the odds are that good then why bring it up.

I was happy to know that I am at my prepregnancy weight. I lost some during the first trimester. Which I think is good because I was up to 190. I am back at 190, but I think the weight I gained back is due to being pregnant. My chest has gotten extremely large, so tops and bras don't fit right anymore. My belly has changed shape, so my pants really don't fit anymore. Target here I come.

We got to hear the baby's heartbeat yesterday. I was really happy DH came to my appt with me. I think it made it more real for him...as if he wasn't already excited. The doctor was really happy with the heartbeat. What he could hear of it was really strong. Everytime I took a deep breath in (which was a lot, because I have a stuffy nose), he would lose the heartbeat and have to find it again. DH thinks the baby likes snow, because the background noise sounds like a blizzard to him. I asked him if that is another sign we need to move back to Wisconsin. I got no answer.

My dogs have become really attached to me during my pregnancy. Dazie won't leave my side, and Miischka has gotten more affectionate. Huskies are pretty affectionate dogs, and I love that about the breed. I have to say there comes a point when I have had enough kisses. Also, I have noticed the further along I am the more Miischka wants to chew on my dirty underwear. She even digs it out of the hamper. UGH!

This is enough tonight. Note for next blog: Miischka's vet visit.

Topics

Does anybody have any suggestions about what I should write about? Last night, I couldn't sleep, because I kept thinking about things to blog about. Guess what!?!?!? I can't think of a darn thing to write about now. I could have written my ideas down, but that would involve turning on a light, letting my eyes adjust, finding paper and a writing utensil, and then trying to fall back asleep. Mind you this is well after midnight, and I have to wake up in a few short hours.

Potty Training

Sorry, I am such a lacky about writing in my blog. I really don't have a good excuse. I have never been good at journalling. I think about it all the time, but never get around to it.

Anyway, we got our puppy, Miischka, in October. With in 48 hours of having her, we find out she has a bladder control problem and worms. We get the worms taken care of and we think we have the bladder control problem taken care of...well sort of. At first the vet thought she had a bladder infection. The meds he put her on helped some what. At this point I understood that, she didn't have the concept of going potty outside. But, the poor pup was urinating on herself in her sleep. You could tell that she didn't have any notice that she had to go. She wouldn't sniff around to find a place, she would just go, and sometimes she wouldn't even squat. Anyway, DH sees another vet in the same practice. And he believes she has an incontinence problem, that she will probably have until her first cycle. So, she is on a steroid for that. It is really not helping anymore.

My In-Laws were here for Christmas. My MIL noticed that she was drinking a lot of water. Which lead her to believe the puppy may have diabetes and that is why she is urinating on herself in her sleep. Not only that, but we discovered this week end that the poor thing has some sores on her belly from urinating on herself.

I am really impressed, despite the health issues we have been having, with how far along she has come in potty training. After about a month, somehow she would tell our adult dog, Dazie, that she had to go potty, and Dazie would come tell us that they needed to go out. She does this by putting a paw or two in our lap to get our attention. Then, if you say "potty" to her she will go sit by the back door. I would let them out and watch. Dazie would stay on the deck and Miischka would go out in the yard to do what she needed to do. Within the past week Miischka has been telling us on her own that she has to go. I am so proud. And not only has she mastered letting us know she has to go out while she is awake, she learned "Sit" also. If you know anything about Siberian Huskies, they are hard to train. It is not because they are not intelligent, but they are extremely stubborn.

Well, I better get to bed. I need to call the vet tomorrow, since they were closed today. I really need to get Miischka tested for diabetes and to see how bad her sores on her belly are. I hope what ever she has it is treatable.

Where is the joy?

I am so tired. Today, I woke up with a head ache that refuses to go away. DH and I are trying frantically to deep clean the house, as my in-laws are coming here for Christmas. I just don't think my DH understands how pregnancy can take a toll on a person. Especially, one who is not in the best physical shape. Anyway, with the head ache and tiredness I already pocess, he expects me to do the work that requires the most bending. Several times I feel like I am going to faint. I try to explain this to him, and he tells me to take my time and do what I can when I can. OK that is acceptable. Then, the next minute he is acting like I am not cleaning fast enough for him. Is it not enough that I am working 50+ hours a week and he is working 40? Does he care that he would have to work 64 hours a week to make what I do? I am on salary. I try to tell him that my body is warning me that I am doing too much, and that it would not be good for the baby if I faint...but I get no response. So, either he is ignoring me or he doesn't want to admit he is wrong to any degree.

This is the second major thing he has done to get under my skin since Thursday. Thursday, hmmmm...oh what a day. So, we have a terrible ice storm. He decided not to go into work. Fine, because he would have wasted gas going, because the plant didn't have power. He decides to take me to work...to make sure I get there safely. Wow, this guy is really nice and cares. Anyway, after an hour at work the power goes out there, too. We wait for about an hour-hour and a half before getting the go ahead to go home. So, I call him. He picks me up and then complains that he is spending his day off "driving Miss Daisy." I have already been at a place I despise, wasted 2 and a half hours of my day to get that??? We get home to find out, that we also have no power. Which, is somehow my fault btw.

My neighbor works at a local hotel. They had a room left, so she called me to see if we would like it. DH said no, b/c we can't afford it. The hotel room would have cost at most $50. He ended up going out and borrowing a kerosene heater, and buying over $100 of supplies so we could survive until the predicted Tuesday. Tuesday, is when they predict the entire area will be up and completely running with electricty. After he gets us to where we can survive, he is then concerned about how the kerosene will affect the baby. What was wrong with the hotel? There would be no fumes to worry about, and they have wi-fi.

Tiredness

First I should warn any readers: I like to make up words. If there is ever something you don't understand, just ask. I honestly think that everybody should live in my world. It is peaceful there.

So, I am extremely tired. I can't even make it through and 8 hour work day. I even come home at lunch to take a "rest'. This peanut size baby in my stomach is really taking a toll on my. My friend told me, "Yeah, you'll be tired during the first trimester, energetic during the second, tired again the third, and you will never get to sleep the year after that." That isn't very encouraging to me. I love to sleep. I hate waking up. <>

Tonight, I called my brother. About a month ago he got into some serious trouble. It started with four charges, and last I knew it was up to eight. I found it very neccessary to talk some sense into the lad. I am not really sure if it will work, but I know he respects me more than he respects my mom. My mom also lets him get away with not telling her what is going on. I don't. I make him confess his secrets to me, but at the same time he feels comfortable doing so. I told him the possibilities for his punishment which he won't find out until next month. He will turn 16 at the end of the month. I think they can suspend his license until he is 18. Make it so that he can't leave the state, and possibly the county.

I told him to make sure when he talks to the lawyer that he asks for professional help (counselling). He is going through some things in his life, that I know he is having a hard time dealing with. His parents have been divorced since he was 4, because his dad is an alcoholic. Basically, is dad's alcoholism is the root of some of the issues. Since his dad got evicted from his apt, my brother has been acting out. I believe that if he gets professional help, he will get better.

My mom isn't a bad mother, she just has a horrible work schedule. Her boss isn't willing to work with her. I know she gets frustrated because my brother's dad likes to play games. He likes to try to turn my brother against my mom. My step grandparents talked to my bro about the situation, and he is finally realizing it is a game. My step grandparents are very supportive of my mom. At least there is some promise in the situation.

On to another subject. My DH is playing Madden 2006. He has created a player that is suposed to be "our son". Apparently, the kid is a real good running back. DH is having him run zig zag (from one side to the other) to the end zone for the TD. Which spawns the following conversation:

Me: What are you doing?
Him: That is our son. (Long pause) He is that good. (Antoher long pause) You gave birth to him.

I think he is on something or way to over excited to become a father. I still love him though.

Good night all. I am tired, and can barely type.

My puppies

Thanks fastbackstang for telling me about Mr. Nice Guy's blog. It is hilarious. There were a couple of times I woke the dogs up laughing.

I think there may be some randomness in this entry.

I have two dogs. Dazie is a two year old Husky/Border Collie Mix. We have had her since she was 8 weeks old. Anyway, I think the poor dog is going through sympathy pangs. I am at the stage in my pregnancy where I am tired all the time. Dazie is normally energetic, and will drag us out of bed for a walk or a hike. Anyway, the past four mornings we have had to coax Dazie out of bed.

My other dog is a pure-bred siberian husky puppy we call Miischka. She is a little turd. There is not much more to say about her. She is going through the typical puppy stuff. Teething, potty training, and learning the rules. Dazie has been good about teaching her some of the rules, but I think Dazie secretly relishes in the fact that Miischka gets in trouble.

I think that is it for tonight. I am more tired than I thought. Now, I am going to go have to fight for my space in bed. When I put Miischka in her crate (which is in the bedroom) DH was laying in the middle of our bed. He was all sprawled out. If I can't get him onto his side of the bed, I will have to sleep on the couch.

Good night all!

Blog

What an interesting title for a blog entry. Anyway, I know I posted a few minutes ago, but something happened. I do feel like I need to write about this. So, I posted my previous entry, and double checked to make sure I actually posted it. Then, I was curious to what I wrote before. I read my previous entries. I thought they would be interesting to my DH.

DH happens to take a break from his video game at the exact time I think that. Mind you my DH is pretty computer savy. I say, "Would you like to read my blog?"

His response, "Gross, I don't think we are at the point in our relationship where I should be looking at your blog." This coming from the man who is still upset that he missed my first ultra sound.

My only appropriate response is, "Do you even know what a blog is?"

He says, "The thingy at the back of your throat...your g-spot." Now, I am glaring at him and he says, "Don't you think I'm funny?" Really, I am beginning to think he is on crack or something.

Tape

OK, so this is something that has happened in the recent past. I wanted to blog about it that night, but I was too tired. Excuses, excuses, excuses. This story seems to be the story of my life.

I am constantly misplacing stuff. I could probably misplace less stuff if I was a better house keeper, but that is not who I am. Being that we live 1,000 miles from my family I have to ship their Christmas presents to them. My process was wrap all the presents that went to each address I needed to ship stuff to, put it in a box, fill with packing peanuts, tape box shut, and address the box. I had first completed my best friend and her daughter's package, but after I tore the house apart finding the packing tape. I went to start on my mom and brother's presents to find I have misplaced the skotch tape. How come it is that I can find one thing, and then immediately lose another? My patience were gone, so I just got a new roll of tape and continued, making sure that the packing tape and skotch tape were easy to get at all times.

The next morning I wake up, go into the living room, and laying on the floor is the original roll of skotch tape (the one I lost the night before). It was in such an obvious place. I had to be delirous not to see it if it had been there the whole time. My theory is going to be that one of the dogs walked off with it. There is no other logical explanation to me.