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February 28, 2007
Wednesday Already?
Well, g'morning, folks. Obviously, nothing laborly happened in the night! Actually, I'll take that back- I was quite a bit uncomfortable off and on, but nothing developed of it. I am beginning to despair of ever going into labor! It's strange, because really and truly, everthing seems to point in that direction, but it just won't go ahead and start up. It makes me wonder if the baby is settled in the right way to stimulate labor.
Okay, I'm getting technical and you boys probably wanna scat. Girls, read ahead if you want.
Continue reading "Wednesday Already?"
Posted by WonderGirl at 10:38 AM | Comments (7) | TrackBack
February 27, 2007
Small Talk
The weather here is beautiful! I have the windows open and the breeze blowing in is so refreshing. I love unprocessed air! The extra oxygen is rejuvenating.
I don't have much to write about today- you'll have to forgive me. I've been reading a few good books lately and basically taking it easy, including a semi-hiatus from blogging. I mean, I'm still updating here, but I haven't invested much in it lately. I have been browsing a lot of the blogs I read though, catching up on people's lives. Oh, and I've been doing some overhauling of my old entries. Under "Past Escapades", if you click on "WonderGirl's Complete Archive", you'll find that I have gotten all the way back to about April 2004. It's taken me a while! I still am not done with them, but it's a very time-consuming process. When I moved from my old blog, I decided not to write under my real name anymore for different reasons, and so I had to go through all the entries AND comments and remove our names. I'm nearly there. I think I have one more year of entries to "sift" through, then I'm done. Maybe I'll work on that some more this afternoon! It's been hanging over my head since I moved to atlblogs, so it'll be nice to have it done.
Speaking of archives, one of my favorite things about the new layout is the "Time Warp". I don't know if you've noticed it, but every time you reload this page, an exerpt of an old entry pops on the sidebar. It is fun for me to go back and reread something I'd totally forgotten about, plus it gives new readers a chance to get to know me a little better. Which could be a good thing, or a bad thing, depending on what they read! Ha! Anyway, it's a cool feature.
Well, that's all for now- nothing much really but a howdy. Hope everyone has a great Tuesday! More later if I'm feeling it.
Posted by WonderGirl at 11:50 AM | Comments (3) | TrackBack
February 26, 2007
Randomables
Just a note or two before bedtime, sweet bedtime. I am awfully tired tonight... I don't know why exactly. Really all I did was get out to see the midwife, but I feel like I ran a marathon today! Must have something to do with being pregnant for seventy million months. Anyway. I am looking forward to sinking onto my pillow and not coming up for as long as my bladder will cooperate!
So today wasn't horrible. I found myself humming "It's my due date and I'll cry if I want to" a few times, but it was tongue-in-cheek. I'm okay. I mean, at least now I know for sure that it could be any minute. I think I'll be surprised when I actually go into labor though. After a while, it just gets to be so abstract a thought, you stop thinking it will really, physically happen. I will admit, part of me is ya know... a little nervous. I feel prepared, and I think I have a healthy outlook on labor-- but there are still moments when I really don't want to hurt that bad. I'm afraid of that "point of no return" when you don't have time between contractions to recover. It's in that moment when techniques and relaxation and visualization seem pitiful weapons against the invading force that is labor. You just can't fight it forever. As much as I want this baby to be here, and as excited as I am about employing the hypnobirthing techniques- ya know... I'm okay with being overdue. I don't mind delaying pain.
Anyhoo... those are only random thoughts of a tired brain, so I should turn in. More tomorrow if tonight's quiet.
Posted by WonderGirl at 11:35 PM | Comments (2) | TrackBack
Apartment Dwelling
Oh please... somebody make the fiesta music upstairs STOP. It's KILLING ME.
Posted by WonderGirl at 4:44 PM | Comments (1) | TrackBack
February 25, 2007
On the Eve of My Due Date
(Even though I still think my actual due date was the 22nd, I'm willing to consider the 26th because it makes me feel a little better. I'm not overdue. Yet.)
Well. I tried it all. That's the best I can do! This baby will just come when it will, and that's that. I have an appointment with the midwife tomorrow, so as long as the baby and I are still healthy, we'll just grin and bear it. Okay, maybe grinning is a tad optimistic. We'll just bear it.
It's hard enough to wait for your baby to get here, but I also feel bad for inconveniencing people. Unfortunately, it's really out of my hands! And you know me-- I don't like to be out of control of a situation. I'm very type A personality- which can be great when it comes to organizing things and getting things done- but not so good when it comes to relinquishing control. It kills me to be at the mercy of the unknown!
The kids are still at my inlaws, but don't seem to be homesick just yet. I hate the idea of them wanting to come home and not being able to, or of overtaxing my inlaws with their care. I know they are having a blast... but I miss them, and I feel guilty over sending them too early. I really thought I'd have had the baby by now, or I wouldn't have sent them yet. Also in the back of my head is that my brother is getting married March 17th and I feel a certain pressure to get this thing done. I realize my mom needs to help with wedding prep, and the longer I go, the closer a pinch it is for her. Not to mention the fact that I'd like to have enough time to recover to be there, but that's a bridge I'll have to cross later. Every day I don't go into labor is one less day I have to feel good enough to travel with a newborn.
And while we're at it, let's factor in people missing work and all that- like King Pen and my sister, Britt (who's coming to help with the Duke) and my local back-ups in case Britt doesn't get here in time.
Too much to consider.
I think I'm going to bed now. I'm okay-- really- I'm just frustrated and prone to feeling guilty over things I have no control over. It was a tough day, but maybe tomorrow will be better. Actually, I know it will be better- because it will be a castor-oil free day. Yes, I finally got that desperate and made a cocktail of castor-oil and Dr. Pepper. I managed to get it down, but it was a miserable afternoon. Never again, people. Never. Again.
Oh, by the way... I have employed my sister, Ashley, to blog for me when I actually do go into labor, so don't worry about getting left out of the loop. I wouldn't do that to ya! (Thank you, Ashley, for taking up the task-- and by the way, have a wunnerful birthday today, you old thing! I love you!!)
So, as long as I am not the first permanently pregnant woman in history, you'll get an update. And if I AM the first permanently pregnant woman in history, you can catch me on CNN where I will be cashing in on my unfortunate condition. I mean, if they can stop covering the Anna Nicole Smith story for two seconds.
Okay, g'nite. See yas tomorrow.
Posted by WonderGirl at 10:52 PM | Comments (9) | TrackBack
February 24, 2007
WonderGirl Wonders Why
Another long night, with nothing to show for it. I think that's more frustrating than nothing happening at all- it's definitely more exhausting. I mean, come on already! If I'm gonna be up all night with contractions, can we please be getting somewhere with it?
Grr.
And what's with it happening at night, when I could be sleeping? How about some daytime prelabor instead?
Okay, sorry. Just getting a little cranky over here. I think a chocolate milkshake might help though, so I'm off.
Posted by WonderGirl at 1:31 PM | Comments (4) | TrackBack
February 23, 2007
Roll Call
WonderGirl: present and accounted for. No labor luck last night.
I'll blog later!!
Posted by WonderGirl at 10:48 AM | TrackBack
February 22, 2007
4 Years Ago
There is nobody on this earth quite like HeroBoy. For those of you who know him, you know there is a certain undefinable quality about him-- he's like a small, mischevious woodland creature. Not quite tame, entirely too cute, and full of unexpected shenanigans. Four years ago today, we welcomed him into our life, hardly knowing what we were in for. It's been a hilarious and challenging journey, guiding him from that wee little babe into the full steam ahead boy he is becoming. We are so incredibly lucky to have him in our life.
I love you, chipmunk. I hope you have a wonderful birthday and lots of fun on your country vacation.
As an aside, here's something I wrote about HeroBoy when he was about a year and half. *tearing up a bit*
July 19, 2004
Run Away With My Heart (file under maternal)
I love to watch HeroBoy run. He throws his shoulders back and leans forward into an aerodynamic position, arms out behind him. His chubby legs work hard as he stomps after a rolling ball. He is laughing and big-eyed, and enjoying the run. When stubby fingers finally wrap around his prize, he whirls around holding it out to me, and runs right back.
As I watch him, I freeze the image in my mind, holding onto it as long as I can. I know one day he'll grow out of his baby legs and his run will become longer and faster. He'll stop chasing after balls, and he'll begin chasing other goals. His stride will take him many places, and eventually, it will take him right into manhood. One day, he won't turn around and come back, and that will be okay. It will be hard, but some paths are meant to take you away. We are gifted with borrowed time, and all parents know this.
But for now, those little legs still bring him back to mama, and I am so very happy to be the one that scoops him up at the end of his run. I am blessed beyond reason, beyond what I deserve.
Thank God for that.
Posted by WonderGirl at 5:31 PM | Comments (1) | TrackBack
Dying For An Update?
I guess I should make a point to get on here at least once a day to let you all know when I am not in labor, since I get panicked phonecalls when I don't!
So, yeah.
No baby.
I'm feeling a little contracty today though, so I went for a walk with the Duke. And I've been doing stuff around the house, in hopes that being up and moving around will help. But this baby is totally lazy. I'm about to have to give it a stern talking-to.
Aw... even joking that makes me feel bad. You take what time you need, sweet pea. But please, do consider the fact that there is way more leg room out here than in there. And there could be some candy in it for you, too. And money. Cold, hard cash, if you decide to come on out.
Posted by WonderGirl at 2:15 PM | Comments (2) | TrackBack
February 21, 2007
And You Shall Be Called...
It occurred to me last night, not only did we have to come up with potential boy/girl names for this baby, I also have to come up with a blog name! Feel free to help me out, folks. Throw some suggestions out there, how 'bout it?
Posted by WonderGirl at 9:41 AM | Comments (7) | TrackBack
February 20, 2007
Poking Out
Please let these be the last pictures. She canna take much more, Capt'n!
Bird's eye view:
Self portraiture:
Wide angle lense:
Whew. This is the biggest belly I've ever had. I am beginning to think I am soon to be the proud mother of a bouncing baby watermelon.
Posted by WonderGirl at 9:33 PM | Comments (4) | TrackBack
Pancake Day
It's Shrove Tuesday, which is a new holiday to me. I'll be honest, I didn't even know it existed until a week or two ago. Tomorrow is Ash Wednesday, which I do know about, having lived in an area that was predominantly Roman Catholic for five years. (I always had to fight the urge to tell people they had a smudge on their forehead, until I remembered what day it was.) Actually, our church here will observe Ash Wednesday as well, ashing included if you want. But first, we celebrate Shrove Tuesday. This is my kind of holy day, lemme tell ya. We're getting together tonight and eatin' hotcakes and syrup. Yeah!
Here's what our pastor had to say about it:
What is Shrove Tuesday?
To be frank, Shrove Tuesday is just an excuse for a church party -- after all, pancakes need no theological justification! But it does have a long and venerable history.
Shrove Tuesday is an 800+ year old tradition in English speaking churches. It marks the end of the festive season of Epiphany and the beginning of the more somber, solemn season of Lent. To wrap up Epiphany, people would have a pancake dinner together, using eggs and syrup, which they would be giving up for Lent. It was also a time to begin confessing ("shriving" in Old English) sin and focusing on repentance. Wikipedia is not always the most reliable theological resource, but there's some pretty good info here.
Other national cultures produced different pre-Lenten customs (e.g., French Mardi Gras), but as an English speaking church that traces its historical roots back to through the English Reformation, a Shrove Tuesday celebration makes perfect sense for us.
So, pancake dinner at the church tonight! Yay!
Posted by WonderGirl at 11:09 AM | Comments (3) | TrackBack
Random TV Observations
Is it me, or is Oprah looking odd these days? It's like she's using her makeup to change the shape of her face or something, and it's just not working. It frightens me a little.
And also, anybody watch CSI Miami? Do Horatio Cane's poses seem to be getting more and more dramatic? The man cannot face the camera head on! He's always in profile. It's weird.
Oh, and The Hills. Yeah. I feel my brain dying when I watch that show. No more. Same for Dirt-- I'll admit, I watched a few episodes. But I had to quit-- that is some kind of raunchy show. I mean, sheesh.
Okay, 'nuff chitchat. I'm gonna go eat some breakfast now, and READ A BOOK. No more tv.
Well, until Idol comes on tonight. And Lost tomorrow. And Survivor Thursday. Ha.
Posted by WonderGirl at 10:46 AM | Comments (4) | TrackBack
February 19, 2007
Hormoans
I excitedly opened the box for the vacuum cleaner yesterday evening, and little busted plastic parts tumbled out around me. I cannot express my disappointment enough. I was so looking forward to vacuuming! I almost cried.
Which just goes to show how manic my nesting instinct is. Did I mention the other day my joy at seeing the dirty clothes the kids took off at bath time? I actually thought to myself, Finally! I have enough to make a full load to wash!
That is not normal. At least, not for moi.
Also not normal- the emotional breakdown I had watching Pollyanna today. I didn't just tear up, I have to admit. I all but buried my face in the pillow and sobbed like a fourteen year old girl getting broken up with.
On a brighter note, we're taking the vacuum cleaner back, tonight, so I can use it tomorrow to my little heart's content. Yay!
Posted by WonderGirl at 7:11 PM | Comments (1) | TrackBack
February 18, 2007
Febrooary
King Pen's parents came for the weekend, leaving today with two giggling stowaways, Czarina and HeroBoy. It's awfully quiet now, I have to say. His parents are rowdy! No, I'm kidding. It's the absence of our two resident chatterboxes. Although, I'm sure the Duke will do his best to fill the silence and drag out the usual amount of toys! I had mixed feelings as they left... mostly just hoping I didn't send them away too early. My due date is the 26th, or more likely (and yes, optimistically), the 22nd. So, as long as I don't go past that by much, or at all, I'll be happy. But if it drags on and on and they are away from home too long, I'll feel guilty.
But not today. Today, I am just basking in the quiet! And in the awesomeness of my inlaws. Not only did they take the kids for me, they also took us out to eat last night, for some great Mexican food. I ate until I was in serious danger of popping. I was sort of hoping the spicy food would jumpstart things, but no such luck. I did get a few good tastes of King Pen's margarita though, so that was a plus. I'm sure I looked like a responsible mother-to-be, with the buddha belly and all. But hey, it was just a sip or two. So hesh up.
I feel okay, not so good, not so bad. I am ready and waiting but trying not to dwell on it too much. Which means, yeah, I'm thinking of it constantly. Shoot. It's just impossible not to! I am dying to know if we have a boy or a girl. The anticipation of the whole thing is killer. How will it go? How will I cope with labor? What will the baby look like? Questions, questions, and all I can do is wait.
One day I feel like labor is right around the corner, and the next I feel totally unlaborlike. I asked my mother-in-law if I had "that look" yet, and she said sympathetically, "Oh Wondergirl, you look too good- you don't look miserable yet! Maybe you should try to look more pitiful." So that's my technique for the week. All out pitiful. I'm gonna pout this baby out.
Anyway.
Hey, we got a new vacuum cleaner! Yeah! You know your life has changed drastically when you can't wait for the kids to go to bed so you can get out the new vacuum cleaner and see how much it rocks. Sad. But it's lime green, man. How cool is that? I get points for that, right?
Well, I don't have much else to say today. I just wanted to let everyone know how things were. No bebe, yet. But you can't be pregnant forever... it's just GOTTA happen sooner or later. Hopefully sooner than later.
Okay, I'm out. More bloggy tomorrow.
Posted by WonderGirl at 8:57 PM | Comments (4) | TrackBack
February 16, 2007
Sleepless
My body put me through a serious trial run last night. I got into bed at about 10ish, but I was restless and didn't sleep. I was having contractions, but figured I'd fall asleep at some point. Wrong. By midnight, King Pen had come to bed, and I was getting increasingly uncomfortable. I got up and drank some water, because sometimes that helps, but not this time. I eventually ended up on the heating pad in the living room, watching tv. I tried dozing, but the contractions were too distracting. I stayed there, unsure if I was in labor or not but definitely hurting until about 5. Around then, they started stalling out. I was so exhausted, I decided to try getting back in bed to see if I could finally sleep through them.
And I did! Yay! I slept from 5:30 till 8ish. I feel much better. A little worn around the edges, but better. I had the same thing happen when I was pregnant with HeroBoy, so I'm not surprised. I'm glad I gave it enough time to know if it was the "real thing" or not. And to be honest, I'm glad it wasn't Go Time. I needed to make it until today, when King Pen's parents come into town and take some of the kids home with them. I just wasn't quite ready.
Well, that was my night. I am happy to see the sun today! But, I won't be surprised if in the next day or two, things really get hopping. Baby is not that far away...
Posted by WonderGirl at 10:55 AM | Comments (2) | TrackBack
February 15, 2007
Today's Doings
Today, the kids had a check-up with their new pediatrician, FINALLY!! We've been here 8 months and it took me that long to get my stuff together. We can file that under Bad Mom. Or maybe just... Busy Mom. Anyway, all the crew are healthy and I really like the new doctor/staff. It's two seconds from my house, which is really nice, also! The Duke had to have shots, and a little extra loving today because of it. I've been giving him motrin, which is helping, but he's still grouching around a bit. Poor kid. He's hanging in there, though. They all had fingerpricks, which Czarina didn't handle very well. Blood freaks her out. Like she turns into another child altogether, I kid you not. But we managed. Then, she and HeroBoy had to pee in a cup, a first for both of them. They thought that was the craziest thing they'd ever heard. I made sure to emphasize that this was the ONLY appropriate time to pee in cups. I've learned to be preemptive. All in all, it was an easy trip, and I'm glad I was able to get it done before the baby arrives.
As to that, I'm feeling fine today- a little lumbersome, but not laborsome. But that's okay. I had a wee nap after our outing, and I am doing good. As much as I would still like to do around the house (those fan blades really need a good touch-up!), I am trying not to overdo it on anything. I am in rest mode. Which means we're eating lots of sandwiches and poptarts these days. Eh. I'll be glad to be back to my normal energy level, so I can cook and play and keep up with these rascals around here!
In other random news, I finally efiled our taxes today. Yay! No, really. I love tax season. We always work it out so that we get a little something back, which is going to come in handy with this baby, car payments, all that. Yay for money! Mama needs a new pair of shoes!
Okay, I know it's not much of a blog post, but this will have to do for the day. I'll catch you guys in the a.m.
Posted by WonderGirl at 6:01 PM | TrackBack
February 14, 2007
Luv
Happy Valentine's Day, everybody!
May your day be filled with chocolate, hugs, kisses, flowers, and lotsa love!
Posted by WonderGirl at 10:25 AM | Comments (2) | TrackBack
February 13, 2007
Chop Off Their Hands
I recieved a package today from my aunt, containing an old novel called The Outdoor Girls at Ocean View, by the author of the Bobbsey Twins. It looks like a juvenile reader that Czarina and I can read, a neat old book. But the best part is the inscription in the back handwritten by a previous owner in 1939.
Steal not this book for fear of shame,
For in it is the owner's name.
God would say on Judgement Day,
"Where is the book you stole away?"
And you would say, "I do not know,"
And He would say, "Get down below."
Wow. Bet you didn't know book theft will send you straight to hell, did you? Yup. Technically, she's right- eighth commandment and all. But yikes. Kinda persnickety, huh?
Posted by WonderGirl at 12:28 PM | Comments (5) | TrackBack
What's Another Word for Misc.?
Morning, y'all. How is everyone? Ya know, this is becoming a bit of a habit, blogging first thing in the morning while the kids eat breakfast. The Duke is usually still asleep, so it gives me a few quiet minutes to catch up before the day begins. It is not, unfortunately, my most inspired moment of the day. My head's still fuzzy until at least 10 a.m., so you aren't getting literary works of genius. Sorry. I expect my schedule to change drastically once the baby is born... more night time blogging. Writing is best done in the dark, in my experience. Maybe we'll get back to some good, old fashioned, juicy blogging. Till then, though, we take what we can get.
Anyway.
Yesterday's appointment went well with the midwife. The kids were good, good and sticky. But I'm not complaining. God bless the man who invented lollipops! They sat patiently in the room with me until I needed them to step out, and then they sat out in the waiting area for a few minutes while we finished up. Even the Duke cooperated pretty well. As for me, I'm fine, healthy as a horse. (Okay folks, stop reading now if you don't want to know girly stuff.) The baby isn't as low as I'd like it to be, but I am dilated to 3cm and things seem favorable for labor. But I am just not feeling it yet, ya know? Oh, don't get me wrong, I wanna be. Each day that I wake up feeling like a million bucks, I just want to cry. I want that imminent, miserable feeling, because then at least I know it's not far off. Right now, other than some minor aches and pains, I feel like I could sustain pregnancy for another month! I'd be surprised if I went into labor right now, judging by how I feel.
But better that than feeling terrible for weeks and weeks, I guess. I should be happy to feel good, yeah?
Mmf.
Okay, I'm off in search of food. I'll write again later. Have a good morning, everybody.
Posted by WonderGirl at 9:53 AM | Comments (1) | TrackBack
February 12, 2007
Something in the Water
Oh, I meant to post a happy congratulations to my sil, Amy, who is expecting her 3rd bebe in September! And also my full condolences that she will experience late pregnancy in the hottest part of the summer. In the South. The poor thing. But at least her cravings will hit when she can get lots of good, fresh veggies, including ripe tomato sandwiches, oh my! Consequently, this will be the 13th grandchild on my husband's side. Whoa! Prolific bunch, they are. Check us all out at Christmas!
Posted by WonderGirl at 7:40 PM | Comments (2) | TrackBack
Sling High, Sling Low
Oh, I really, really want one of these. But who in their right mind wants to pay nearly FIFTY bucks for a piece of fabric?
A friend of mine has one though, and she swears by it. Her baby loves it. (That is not my friend in the picture by the way. So don't even bother asking for her number. Plus, dude. She's got a baby.)
Posted by WonderGirl at 10:24 AM | Comments (8) | TrackBack
Week at a Glance
Good morning, all. 'Sup? Everybody ready to take on another week? I think I am. I'd like to reserve judgement on that until we see how it shapes up, though.
This afternoon, I have an appointment with the midwife. Unfortunately, I am lugging along the crew, which is a minor inconvenience I am not looking forward to. I will once again be using the Mommy Glare and Lollipop approach, and hopefully that will suffice. Also to do today, find some place that has tax forms, call the pediatrician, and pick-up diapers. Fun, fun, fun.
Wednesday is storytime at the library and Valentine's Day. That actually is fun, no sarcasm there.
Thursday, all three kids have doctor's appointments, and probably shots. Bah.
Friday, early celebration of HeroBoy's 4th birthday at Chuck E. Cheese. Hoorah! Pizza! And scary, robotic puppets!
Saturday, King Pen's parents are coming into town, and taking Czarina and HeroBoy with them when they leave Sunday, which I have mixed feelings about. I hate sending them away, but will appreciate the break at the same time.
So there ya have it, my week in a nutshell. At any point, the baby is invited to make it's appearance. Maybe? Hopefully? Please?
Well, I need to go get some breakfast and maybe a cup o'joe, too. I'm feeling kind of cranky this morning, and that's no good for anybody! Just ask the kids. They've been shooting nervous glances over here since I growled out of bed an hour ago. Poor dears. I need to go have an attitude adjustment, or nobody is going to have a very good day. So, coffee it is.
Okay, more later, maybe. Have a happy Monday, folks!
Posted by WonderGirl at 9:57 AM | TrackBack
February 10, 2007
Full Term and Feeling It
Yowza. Back pain today, lots of it. I've been on the heating pad most of the day, and King Pen rubbed my back for me, which has helped. I don't know if this baby is leaning on my spine or what, but it hoits. I don't think I'm in labor, though. I think my body is just sending out some raiding parties to keep me on my toes.
Thanks, body. That's real helpful. You know we've got 2 more weeks until our actual due date, right? Let's try not to kill me in the interim.
Oh, and now when I call people on the phone, I've been instructed to say right away, "Hey, it's WonderGirl, and I'm not in labor. What's up?" Funny.
Posted by WonderGirl at 6:02 PM | Comments (2) | TrackBack
February 9, 2007
The Pix Mix
As promised, here are a few snapshots of the day.
Continue reading "The Pix Mix"
Posted by WonderGirl at 3:36 PM | Comments (5) | TrackBack
Paper Hearts
Hello Friday!! Glad you could make it. Took ya long enough!
Yesterday was challenging, as far as the kids go. You have good days and bad days even when pregnancy isn't a factor, but being pregnant certainly didn't help matters. I am definitely more short-tempered and impatient than usual. Ugh. I'm a crankmeister. I had to apologize to Czarina at one point in the day, because I totally overreacted to something she did. True, it was a mildly irritating thing she did, but my reaction was out of proportion, and I knew it. I think it's important to treat your children with respect and dignity, too- and I didn't. It's one thing to discipline and train your children, which you MUST do as a parent, but being bigger and in charge doesn't give us the right to take things out on them or hurt their feelings. You know when you've crossed that line. It is possible to sin against your child, and when you do, you need to make it right. They need to know that even adults make mistakes, and when you do, you humble yourself and ask forgiveness the way God wants us to. We teach best by example. I don't think it undermines my authority, I think it emphasizes God's authority. What better lesson to impart than that? (This could be a whole post in itself!)
Anyway, I made amends, and tried to take deep breaths for the rest of the day. I was happy to see my pillow last night... but I told myself as I laid there in bed, I will make tomorrow better. So that's today's plan. Just be better than yesterday.
So, today, we're gonna do something the kids will enjoy. I'm gonna get the house straightened back up from the morning's activities, and then we're going to make valentines. Um, minus the glitter, because I am not that much of a glutton for punishment! But it will be fun, and different, and it makes me feel good to do something special with them. I realize how upside-down their worlds are about to be again, and they could probably do with a little Momma time, during which Momma is not a big, scary, go-do-it-because-I-said-so Monster.
Guess I should go get started on things. Hope you all have a lovely weekend! I'll take a few pictures of our work and post them, (along with the van picture) later.
Posted by WonderGirl at 10:16 AM | Comments (3) | TrackBack
February 8, 2007
Clean as a Whistle
(Actually, why are whistles considered so clean? It's basically full of dried up spit, right? Anyway.)
I did it, I vacuumed.
Did you hear me? I vacuumed. Applause, anyone? That is some hard work, let me tell you. Before we moved into this apartment, we lived in a house with hardwood floors (oh how I miss you, dear old house!). We didn't have much need for a vacuum cleaner, so I never really invested in a good one. Our little broomvac did the job. But now that I have wall-to-wall carpet, and three children who leave a wake of crumbs and debris wherever they go, it's just not getting the job done. And it's an awkward height, and doesn't roll well, so it's quite a workout to use, even without a belly as big as Manhattan. I've been procrastinating on that chore all week, and was hoping the aforementioned fairy would show up. When it didn't, I tackled the job myself.
And now I think I'm in labor.
No, I'm kidding. I'm not. But I am totally wiped. The bad thing is, I can't seem to stop doing things around the house. I've been neurotic about the laundry lately, and it's killing me not to go in there and clean the bathrooms right now. But I am forcing myself to take a break or I really will wear myself out. This nesting instinct is a strong adversary though. As I was vacuuming, I kept eying the baseboards, because they could seriously stand some attention.
Help.
I mean, yeah, it's nice to have things clean and tidy. But it's killing my back!
Okay, enough complaining. I just thought I'd pop in and explain my whereabouts today. Don't mind me, I'm just obsessively cleaning everything I can get my hands on.
You may not want to come too close... or you may get a good scrubbing, as well. You look kinda dirty.
Posted by WonderGirl at 2:41 PM | TrackBack
February 7, 2007
I Do Believe, I Do!
Does the toothfairy have a long lost cousin, the Vacuum Cleaning Fairy? I sure wish she'd visit my dining room while I'm sleeping.
We keep putting crumbs under the table but nobody picks them up. And I sure haven't found any dollars under there the next morning, either.
Posted by WonderGirl at 3:22 PM | Comments (7) | TrackBack
4 Letter Word for the Day
LOST.
Tonight.
Whoohoo!!!
Posted by WonderGirl at 3:16 PM | Comments (1) | TrackBack
Wakefull
My eyes opened too wide in the darkness of the morning, and I couldn't close them again. I wanted to sleep, but all I did was lay there and wait for the morning to catch up with me. So, I admitted defeat, and here I am, the moon and I rare companions for a few moments. It is quiet, and cold, and lovely.
Easy to forget that there are people to read my words when it is so silent in this room. Dangerous to blog in the wee hours of the morning, when words flow forth like wine from the bottle. Freely, uninhibited, and without thought to tomorrow's consequences.
We all have things we want to say, and can't, don't we? I used to say more here, I used to need to say more. Now maybe not so much. I have let go of many things because I said them aloud, and now must find other things to say and write and feel. That is good. I don't want to spend my whole life saying and writing and feeling the same things.
Today, or rather, yesterday, was a good day. I was content. That is a difficult state to achieve at this point, which bothers me. But for the moment, I was okay with everything just as it was. Still pregnant. Still demanded upon. Still eating the same lunch, watching the same shows, worrying the same worries, smiling over the same sweetnesses. I realized yesterday, I am one day closer. Closer to everything. Closer to this baby, closer to the completion of our family. Closer to all my children being potty trained. Closer to financial solutions. Closer to forgiving. Closer to spring, closer to lasting friendships, closer to all the good things in life. No matter how far off those things may be, I am still one day closer to them.
I am also closer to the heartaches and pains along way. I feel them, I sense them, waiting. But wisdom says I am closer to overcoming those things, as well.
Each day brings me closer to the edification that God has ordained for my life. Each day brings me closer to the beginnings and ends that make up my walk in this world.
Closer to death, but closer to life in Him.
I wouldn't be human if my joy wasn't mingled with fear over that thought... but still I rejoice in the walk, and in the One who gave it to me.
Okay, enough ramblings of the sleepless soul tonight. I will try to find my bed again before the light of day finds me.
Posted by WonderGirl at 6:30 AM | Comments (3) | TrackBack
February 6, 2007
Slow Poke
Mm. How many other ways can I stall this morning's chores? Blogging?
Bah. I know, I know- work before play. Sigh. Better get to it. I'll be on later, if the laundry doesn't kill me first.
Posted by WonderGirl at 11:14 AM | Comments (3) | TrackBack
February 5, 2007
Observation
What is UP with "Beloved" being on every channel now? Have you seen that movie? Oh the HORROR. It has got to be one of the worst movies ever made, and I don't care if Oprah Winfrey hears me say it. (She frequently eavesdrops here at the Sift.)
Anyway.
It is on two separate channels right now, and I noticed it on yesterday, too. That's just weird.
Okay. Back to your day. Scoot.
Posted by WonderGirl at 1:30 PM | Comments (7) | TrackBack
Rising and Shining
Good morning, and good week, everybody. Ready to hit the ground running? I am. Well, ready to hit the ground waddling, anyway. We're off to a good start over here. Kids are playing cheerfully in their rooms, while I peruse the blogs and check my email. (Speaking of which, HeroBoy complained the other day that he never gets any email- which I thought was funny, considering that he's three, doesn't have an email address, and can't read.)
Not much going on this week, really. We have storytime at the library Wednesday, followed by a sacklunch get-together. Other than that, nothing much on the agenda. Oh, maybe we could throw in HAVING A BABY if we're lucky, but I'm not holding my breath. (If I was, I would exhale with a "hoo-hoo-hoo" in hopes that labor would kick up.) I had my first real moment yesterday... one of those, I-can't-do-this-any-longer-please-God-lemme-have-this-baby-NOW-moments. I was relaying this to my mom, and she said, "I know you hate to hear this, but you should really try to enjoy these last few days of being pregnant, etc. etc."
To which I replied, "Talk to the hand, Mother."
No, not really. I do try to enjoy every little thing I can about it- I know how amazing a thing pregnancy is. And I make the most of it, for the first 37 weeks. After that, I'm done. I've enjoyed it enough. All told, I've been pregnant 40 months of my life... or 3 years and 4 months. I don't know how much more of it I could possibly enjoy! Gimme the baby! Let me enjoy the BABY!
But I'm trying to reel that in a little. I'm good. I can hold on a bit longer. And I didn't really tell me dear, old, saintly mither to talk to the hand. (I don't know why, but that was best said with a Scottish burr).
Oh, and I guess I spoke too soon about having names chosen. We're still floundering on the boy's. I thought we had it, but we don't. Now we're in this pattern of thinking of a name, then thinking of why we don't like it. Poor baby. If it's a boy, it's out of luck, cause we got nothing. I thought of a great one, but then we decided it was just "too cool". Too cool? How is that a problem, I ask? Can you ever be too cool? No. But you can be too picky, which is what King Pen and I have become.
Sigh.
Well, I rambled enough this morning. I'm gonna go get some stuff done, and I'll write later. I seriously AM going to blog later, because I have a few things brewing around in my head that should see the light of day. Till then.
Posted by WonderGirl at 10:31 AM | Comments (2) | TrackBack
February 2, 2007
Fighting It
I almost have a crick in my neck.
It's right there, waiting. Waiting for that one awkward twist so it can settle in.
Go away, you muscle bully!
Must have been all that head banging the other night.
Posted by WonderGirl at 12:48 PM | TrackBack
70 Question Meme
Snagged this from Mrs. Crumley, cause I'm lazy today.
70 things:
1. Are your parents married or divorced? Married
2. Are you a vegetarian? No. Me carnivore.
3. Do you believe in Heaven? Yes.
4. Have you ever come close to dying? No.
5. What jewelery do you wear 24/7? Normally, my wedding and engagement rings, but not right now due to pudgy preggy fingers.
6. Favorite time of day? Midmorning.
7. Do you eat the stems of broccoli? Not usually.
8. Do you wear makeup? A little if I'm leaving the house.
9. Ever have plastic surgery? Yes. I was born with six fingers on one hand. Kidding.
11. What do you wear to bed? Whoa there, buster. Simma down, now.
12. Have you ever done anything illegal? Yes.
13. Can you roll your tongue? I never understood how that was supposed to look. I think I can, but I don't know.
14. Do you tweeze your eyebrows? Yes. Yowch.
15. What kind of sneakers? New Balance.
16.Do you believe in Abortions? No.
17. What is your Hair color? Brownish blond. I refuse to say dirty blond or dishwater blond. That's so insulting.
18. Future child’s name? Susannah or Sid, maybe? I dunno.
19. Do you snore? No.
20. If you could go anywhere in the world where would it be? A white beach with sparkling blue water.
21. Do you sleep with stuffed animals? No. But I do suck my thumb. Kidding.
22. If you won the lottery, what would you do first? Scream. Loud and long and happily.
23. Gold or silver? Silver.
24. Hamburger or hot dog? Hamburger, no onions.
25. If you could only eat one food for the rest of your life, what would it be? Chicken and rice, I think.
26. City, beach or country? Beach.
27. What was the last thing you touched? The mouse pad.
28. Where did you eat last? Dining room table.
29. When’s the last time you cried? Yesterday, watching A Baby Story on TLC.
30. Do you read blogs? Yup.
31. Would you ever go out dressed like the opposite sex? No. This is getting weird.
32. Ever been involved with the police? Well, I majored in criminal justice in college. Does that count?
33. What’s your favourite shampoo conditioner and soap? Infusium.
34. Do you talk in your sleep? No. The vault is sealed.
35. Ocean or pool? Pool. No sharks.
36. So, who has the original missing questions? Don't look at me. I didn't take them.
37. Who would you take on a ménage à trois for a dirty weekend? They always have to throw in a question like this one, don't they?
38. Window seat or aisle? Window.
39. Ever met anyone famous? No. Wah.
40. Do you feel that you’ve had a truly successful life? I do.
41. Do you twirl your spaghetti or cut it? We're cutters around here.
42. Ricki Lake or Oprah Winfrey? Can I make up my own questions now?
43. Basketball or Football? I like to watch basketball in person. Neither on tv.
44. How long do your showers last? 30 minutes.
45. Automatic or do you drive a stick? Automatic.
46. Cake or ice cream? Cake! Chocolate. Please give me.
47. Are you self-conscious? Sometimes.
48. Have you ever drank so much you threw up? Urg. Yes.
49. Have you ever given money to a beggar? Yes.
50. Have you been in love? Yes.
51. Where do you wish you were? Shopping.
52. Are you wearing socks? Slippers.
53. Have you ever ridden in an ambulance? No.
54. Can you tango? No. But I can macarana!
55. Last gift you received? A hoodie sweatshirt to wear after the baby is born. Yay for non-maternity clothes!
56. Last sport you played? Volleyball, about a thousand years ago.
57. Things you spend a lot of money on? Groceries. This family can EAT.
58. Where do you live? B'ham.
59. Where were you born? Greenville, MS
60. Last wedding attended? My cousin's.
61. Okay, I just deleted this question, which was obviously written by a fifteen year old hornball.
62. And this one, too.
63. Most hated food(s)? Green bean casserole.
64. What’s your least fav.? I don't know. My least favorite... rash? Chicken pox. My least favorite bill? Electric. Be specific!
65. Can you sing? Without humiliating myself, but I wouldn't audition for Idol.
66. Last person you instant messaged? Joey.
67. Last place you went on holiday? Atlanta, I guess. I need to work on that, don't I? WonderGirl needs a vacation.
68. Favourite regular drink? Sweet tea.
69. Current Song? Alison Krauss- Now That I've Found You.
70. Tag 3 friends: Is anybody still reading this list? If so, then YOU.
Whew.
Posted by WonderGirl at 10:45 AM | Comments (2) | TrackBack
February 1, 2007
Don't Tell The Boss
OOOh boy. I'm gonna be honest, folks. Sometimes, it is very, very good to be a stay-at-home mom. No lie. I don't think I'm supposed to admit that to all you hardworking office people out there- we don't want it to get around or anything, but there are days when it is totally sweet.
I woke up at about 8:30, and the big kids had already eaten breakfast and were playing happily in the living room. (King Pen had set them up before he left for work. Yay for hubbies!) The Duke usually wakes up around 8ish, but the dreary, cold rain outside prompted him to sleep in. So I crawled back into my cozy bed, intending to just lay there until I heard him stirring. He must have been cozy, too, because he didn't wake up until 10:30. Which means... I fell asleep again, and racked up a total of twelve hours of rest for the night.
Oh yeah.
That is rare, and really, not necessary even when I'm pregnant, but when it happens, it's AWESOME. I totally take advantage of it, because I know when the baby gets here, those days are gone. I'm trying to accumulate a few extra hours here and there to make up for what's to come.
Anyway - I feel like a million buckaroos.
I'm way behind on stuff for the morning, but I'm too goofy content to care. I'll catch up. Right now, I'm still basking in a totally full tank.
Being a stay-at-home mom can be super challenging, don't get me wrong. It's hard work. But don't think for a minute I don't count myself lucky to be able to do it. Especially when I still get to be in my pajamas at 11 o'clock.
Okay, I really do have to get moving. I'll blog more later.
Posted by WonderGirl at 12:00 PM | Comments (2) | TrackBack