WonderGirl and the Sift's Babylicious Archives

March 27, 2007

Again

I wrote this when the Duke was about Solon's age, and I was deep in the trenches, just like I am now. So I pray it again, even more fervently than before.

June 03, 2005
Postpartum Prayer

Lord, grant me the serenity I once knew nine months ago.

Give me a blind eye to the clutter that now fills my home.
Grace me with ears that hear what is actually being said, and not what I think they meant by it.
Lend my hands strength to change the thirteen thousandth diaper, fill the juice cups at lunchtime, and still hug my husband when he walks through the door.
Give me a mouth that smiles and says good things.
Bless me with eyes in the back of my head and an extra arm.
Expand my heart to fit my world.
Grant me a clear head, with thoughts that are healthy and productive.
Give me a body that leaps with the morning sun, and the ability to greet each day cheerfully.

And when You have seen to all the imperfections of my body and soul, then bless the people around me. Grant my friends the ability to understand my weaknesses, and help me to be a friend like that, too. Give my family patience and perserverence during this temporary insanity, and remind them it's worth the effort. Shower my husband with special grace to face the unexplained tears and mood swings, and assure him that the woman he married is still in there somewhere. Fill my children with knowledge of their mother's unending love, and help them know that fun will be had again.

And if You have time after all that, I'd love to be able to get my hair done.

Amen.

****

Posted by WonderGirl at 1:43 PM | TrackBack

March 25, 2007

It Wasn't Gas

Guess who smiled at me during church today? I completely and unashamedly abandoned the sermon and basked in four of the cutest, shyest little grins from my bambino. Sorry, Pastor. But I'm pretty sure God understood. Even a saint couldn't turn away from those first smiles.

Posted by WonderGirl at 3:09 PM | Comments (3) | TrackBack

March 24, 2007

A Thank You Note

To My Circle of Women:

Thank you. Thank you a hundred times. Your loving support and acknowledgement has been a balm to me during these tearful breastfeeding days! And if that sounds a bit dramatic, well, it's a dramatic time. Each message you left- either in sympathy or empathy, was a big pick-me-up. I feel honored that you took the time to share your stories, or to just let me know you're praying for me. I don't know why it's so hard to admit when you're having breastfeeding problems- it's like admitting you just aren't cutting it as a mom or something, even though that's crazy. I know I'm a good mom, but I still felt kind of ashamed to confess this particular difficulty. I shouldn't have even given it a second thought though, because I have some of the greatest, non-judgemental friends out there.

To answer some questions: yes, I've tried a little bit of everything. I've given three or four days to each different method of treating the problem, all to no real avail. So, I am reduced to basically just pumping, and giving it to him in a bottle. I am able to directly nurse him every few times, hoping by letting them "rest" that the pain will diminish some. It's a theory that hasn't exactly panned out yet. They still hurt. Capital H on that. I took Solon to the pediatrician Friday, to make sure he is gaining weight, and to check for thrush. He is 9 lbs, 11 oz, which is perfect. He had no signs of thrush. I at least feel better knowing those things. I don't think I have thrush either- though I am treating myself with some homeopathic stuff just in case. I think it's a mixture of other problems, none of which I can really change, until (and unless) they just HEAL. Time seems to be the only cure, though it is also my worst enemy at the moment.

My attitude is slowly changing though- I'm just glad for every day that I can hang in there. Every single ounce of breastmilk he gets is a major accomplishment. I don't know how long this will work- pumping isn't as efficient as nursing, plus there are other issues. But, I have given him a good 3 weeks to jumpstart his health, and that's something. I'm not throwing in the towel yet, but I am coming to accept that it might not work out exactly like I wanted. I know many of you understand why that's so difficult emotionally. It's a loss that you can't express fully to anybody else.

Well, I just wanted to give you all an update. You've been very kind, and I am grateful. I'll ask that you keep praying for me, especially in this next week. It will probably be the clincher one way or the other... if I have no improvement, I've got to rethink things. I have a family of six to look after, and I need this to be resolved in some way. I just need some hope, some little sign that it will get better, and I can keep on keepin' on. But if it doesn't, then I need to consider some other options.

Anyway- here's to hoping that happy blogging isn't too far off... thanks for hanging in there with me, even when it's not so cheery around here.

-WonderGirl

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:19 PM | Comments (5) | TrackBack

March 22, 2007

Low

Breastfeeding post ahead... and not a good one, so beware.

Continue reading "Low"

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:16 AM | Comments (16) | TrackBack

March 14, 2007

Eleven Days On The Outside

Continue reading "Eleven Days On The Outside"

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:45 PM | Comments (7) | TrackBack

March 12, 2007

Unwinding

Highs and lows today, as usual, except that today there were more highs than lows. I am falling more in love with Solon every day- he is sweet and new like a little fawn. He was circumcised today, traumatic for us both, but we survived. I am excited for tomorrow, simply because it is another day we have to get to know each other, another day we have to gaze into each others eyes until he loses his focus or his head gets too heavy and he wobbles back down onto my chest. I love, love, love these days... though they are hard and sleepless and painful at times. They are like dew in the morning, magic and soft, and gone all too soon.

That's all for now- I'll write in the spare moments I find, few as they may be.

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:31 PM | Comments (3) | TrackBack

March 7, 2007

Graduation

Hard to believe the Duke has gone from being a little brother to a big one. He loves Solon. I think he may be in for a surprise when he realizes Solon isn't going home with Grandma, though.

And a few more for his demanding public:

Posted by WonderGirl at 6:24 PM | Comments (8) | TrackBack

March 5, 2007

A Baby Story

He looks kinda mad, doesn't he?

Without further ado, I present the story of Solon's birth (pronounced "sew lun" but all one word.) Be prepared though, it's long. Oh, and boys, beware. I promise my feelings won't be hurt if you'd rather not read this one. It may even be TMI for some of you girls, so please, just skip it if you're not interested in details. The reason I decided to be so forthcoming with my birth story is because we made some choices that some people find unusual, and even a bit scary. Homebirths aren't typical in the United States, and a lot of people have fears and misconceptions about it. I thought the positive exposure would be interesting and informative. Anyway. Clicky click if you're still with me.

Continue reading "A Baby Story"

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:59 PM | Comments (18) | TrackBack

March 4, 2007

WonderGirl Here

Hey guys! I just have a minute to do this before the little one beckons, so I'll be quick. It was awesome, awesome, awesome. I didn't even really start laboring until I was already 7 cent., which is crazy. Anyway, I'll get on here later and write all about it, but for now, I just wanted to let you all know we're doing great, and post a few pics.

Oh, I'll put his real name on for a while, but I'll take it off once I figure out his "internet name"!

Meet Solon Reed T., everybody. Isn't he darling?

Thank you for all your prayers and thoughts these last few days. It made all the difference in the world. Love to yas!

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:38 AM | Comments (24) | TrackBack

March 1, 2007

Boo!

Ohhhhhh, you're KIDDING ME. I just wrote a whole update and it didn't publish correctly.

GRRR.

So now I'll do the abbreviated (and admittedly less interesting and clever) version. I'm not in labor, in case you're wondering. I feel okay though- it's gotta happen some time or another. I'm really trying to take it one day at a time. I still can't get over the fact that it's not here yet! I can't believe I'm having a March baby! I expected to go a little early, being the fourth baby and all. Guess that goes to show, ya never know. They come when they come.

My mom is planning on coming tomorrow night, so that's something to look forward to. She's a labor and delivery nurse, which comes in handy. But it will mostly just be nice to have the company, and take my mind off things.

I don't feel like writing much right now, I think I'm gonna go take a nap. I'll write more later, maybe!

Posted by WonderGirl at 3:35 PM | TrackBack

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 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

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

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 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

February 12, 2007

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

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 5, 2007

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

Rising and Shining

To which I replied, "Talk to the hand, Mother."

Sigh.

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:31 AM | Comments (2) | TrackBack

January 25, 2007

S.O.S.

Tomorrow is one month from my due date. I think I've been pretty patient with this whole thing, but I'm starting to wane a bit. I feel like I've got the gestational period of a whale. Please! Can I have this baby??? Pretty please? It's not that I'm physically miserable... it could be a lot worse. I carry light compared to most women, so I can't complain about the bulk. (Well, I can complain a little. Pregnancy perogative!) But it's not that. I'm just... ready. I miss my body! I miss a nice, natural homeostasis. I feel all out of whack right now.

I don't feel prepared though, in some ways. I'm anxious to have everything done so I can quit worrying about it. Like getting my bag packed, gathering the extra birthing supplies I'll need, getting the kids all situated... the details. Mentally though, I'm ready. I've studied and prepared my hypnobirthing techniques so much that I could convince myself to cluck like a chicken if I needed to. Hopefully, that won't be necessary. If it does become necessary, then something weird is going on and somebody should get me straight to the hospital, no more midwifing for WonderGirl.

I wish my mom could come for a visit. But I don't want her to spare the time before the baby gets here, because that's less time she has to spend after the baby is here. Something is going on with me though. I'm feeling less like taking care of everybody else, and more like I want somebody tending to me. What is that? I don't have time for it, for one thing. I've got stuff to do! I feel like I'm slowly entering some kind of prebirth hibernation, though. I just want to curl up in a mountain of pillows, and wait for something to happen. Don't bother me. I'm busy... uh... waiting. I've constructed a dark, cozy cave out of the couch cushions and throw pillows and I don't want to be bothered anymore.

I'm trying, really, really hard, not to get hung up on my due date. I was ten days late with Czarina, four days early with HeroBoy, and induced with the Duke. So who the heck knows. But I don't want to go crazy from here on out, hoping and wishing and counting every day until I could possibly expect to go into labor. That'll make me nuts. And you, too, because I'll be writing about it obsessively for a month.

Alrightie then... I'll just stop here. I thought writing about it would help a little, but maybe what I need is to distract myself. The problem is, that trick is running thin lately. It's hard to ignore the messages I'm getting from my body! I'm like... hush already! I know! And still it keeps sending these little notes: All systems go. Countdown commencing. Target locked and loaded. Waiting on your command. Blah blah blah.

Sheesh. Where's the mute button on this thing?

All for now. I'll write more later, after I rest in this pile of pillows for a bit. I think I even buried a few nuts nearby, too, which is always nice.

Posted by WonderGirl at 3:10 PM | Comments (5) | TrackBack

January 15, 2007

Buddha Belly

Here's a quick pic of me pregnant since a few of you have asked. The ladies in our church had a diaper shower last Tuesday for three of us knocked up gals, and someone snapped this picture of us. I am the only one left pregnant now! I still have a month or so to go. (If I was to get lucky, 3 weeks would put me delivering at 37 weeks!!!) Anyway, congrats to Sara and Laree, hopefully I won't be far behind ya!

Continue reading "Buddha Belly"

Posted by WonderGirl at 3:12 PM | Comments (4) | TrackBack

January 9, 2007

Hey Babe

So I'm getting there.

The appointment with the midwife went well yesterday. We went over some of the finer details and signed forms and all that. From this point on, I will see her every two weeks. Yikes! We're already to that stage? Hard to believe. My favorite part of the visit was when she drew the baby on my belly with a washable marker for the kids. It was so sweet! I think it helped them to visualize an actual baby in there. She also let Czarina use the fetalscope to listen to the baby's heartbeat. She looked like a little midwife-in-training. So cute. I do love midwives... it's such a different experience than going to a doctor.

Anyway, I'm healthy, baby's healthy, and we're in the final stretch. I'm working on my "labor plan" as far as what to do with the kids and all- I'm still boning up on my hypnobirthing techniques, and trying to organize "the nursery" which is really a corner of my bedroom. Still lots to do in all those arenas, but I'm making progress.

By the way- what do you guys think this one will be? Boy? Or girl?

Okay, lunch to make now. Must feed the brood. And it's awfully quiet in the back room... I think the Duke must be up to something.

All for now!

Posted by WonderGirl at 12:53 PM | Comments (5) | TrackBack

January 3, 2007

Not Crazy. Just Pregnant.

Oh PLEASEEEEEEEE, hormones, LET ME BE!!! If I wasn't pregnant, I would definitely think I needed some kind of medication. I hate unjustified crankiness (my own). And spontaneous freaking out (which I seem to be doing a lot of). I'm even tired of hearing myself complain in my head. I'm irritating the lights out of myself! HELP!!!!

A nice glass of wine might do the trick. If it wasn't for the heartburn. Dang it all.

I'm ready to have the baby for those reasons, but I think the truth is, I'm stressing out because I'm scared. I'll admit it. I'm scared that I'm gonna suck at being a mother of four. I already feel stretched to the max. Do I have the patience for four children? The time? The creativity? The energy? How in the world do other mothers do it? I feel like I hang on by my fingernails sometimes just with three. I'm scared that I just won't be able to juggle it all. What if the baby is crying to be fed, the Duke leaks through with a dirty diaper, and HeroBoy spills a cup, all while I'm supposed to be homeschooling Czarina? Oh, and let's add the phone ringing or the teapot boiling while I'm at it. Because that's gonna happen. It just will.

I'm overwhelmed and hormonal and I keep having these moments when I just want to cry and I'm sick of feeling that way! It's like constant PMS. Which totally BITES, by the way. It's not that I'm unhappy about this baby- don't misunderstand. I feel guilty for not feeling totally capable, but I wouldn't wish it away. I struggle with my own selfishness when it comes to tending to the needs of other people, and I'm just afraid of what having a newborn will do to compound that challenge.

Okay, enough irritating honesty. This might be one of those times when you should slap me in the face and say, "Get a hold of yourself!" I dunno. Your call. If I need it, please, do it. And uh, don't expect that invitation to come up very often. As a matter of fact, maybe you should just shake me and leave the slapping out of it altogether. You meanie.

Or you could just hand me that small glass of wine.
And a tums.

Yeah, that sounds good.

'Nuff for now. Night, folks!

Posted by WonderGirl at 6:51 PM | Comments (2) | TrackBack

December 18, 2006

Breaking News

We interrupt your program to bring you this breaking news...

Okay, so maybe that's a little misleading. It's not actually news, and it's not breaking anything.

I just wanted to report my latest pregnancy craving. Almond stuffed green olives. Oh, delight. I could drink the juice out of the jar, no lie.

And now back to your regularly scheduled internet browsing.

Posted by WonderGirl at 11:55 AM | Comments (1) | TrackBack

December 6, 2006

I Blame SpongeBob

Oh, I'm worried about myself now. I just had a craving for a Krabby Patty.

Mommy? I'm scared.

Posted by WonderGirl at 5:11 PM | Comments (1) | TrackBack

82 Days

So at Christmas, I'll be about 30 weeks. I love 30 weeks. It's a hop, jump, and a skip away from the Magic 40!

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:27 AM | Comments (3) | TrackBack

November 29, 2006

Request from the Womb

Latest cravings: jellybellies, pickles, and ice cream. No joke. Not all together, mind you, but still. Pickles and ice cream? How cliche can I get?

Posted by WonderGirl at 2:36 PM | TrackBack

October 19, 2006

Bubbles and Squiggles

That's what the ultrasound looked like to me yesterday. But we passed with flying colors, so all the bubbles and squiggles are in the right place! The baby was low, so low that it was difficult to see his/her head, so no good pictures. The technician checked all the internal organs and whatnot, and I have to admit, I was holding my breath. I am a little spooked by the whole process after the experience with the Duke's cyst and all the ultrasounds we had with him. But it was all clear! The baby was very mellow and cooperative during the scan, and I'm glad to have had it. And not pay for it!

I am 21 weeks, according to my dates, but the scan measured 22 weeks and 23 weeks. So, that would put my due date anywhere between Feb. 12th- Feb. 26th. Not sure which one to go with. I know the wisest thing would be to stick to my original dates- and be pleasantly surprised if the baby comes sooner. There is nothing worse than the Baby Wait... and if you happen to be overdue (as I was with Czarina by TEN days!), it's absolute misery. I prefer not to make that worse by expecting the baby earlier than it's even due.

I had a weird experience yesterday. I was on the phone with my cousin, chatting away, and I started to feel a little sick. I loosened my pants, because I am still kind of sensitive about tight things around my waist. It didn't help. I was getting more nauseous by the minute. Then I started getting shaky. When I started sweating, that's when I started worrying. I felt AWFUL! I was listening to him, and wondering what the heck was happening to me. We got off the phone because it was time for me to pick King Pen up from work. I managed to load up the kids and get us to his job- but I felt horrible. We got home and I laid down for a little while, ate some crackers, then I was better. I followed it up with some toast and applesauce for supper. I assume my blood sugar level got too low, which I will be sure to mention when I see my midwife on Monday. Hope that doesn't happen again. Ugh.

Things are going okay around here... I fluctuate a lot in my moods, which surprises me this late in the game. I expect that in the first trimester, but usually I am evened out at this point. I guess every pregnancy is different though, and I should just roll with the flow.

Okay, that's the ultrasound update- since I know a few people were waiting on it. Back to regular blogging later.

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:59 AM | Comments (2) | TrackBack

August 28, 2006

Tasty

I'm craving BREAD today. Good, yummy, bakery bread. Something warm and squishy and dripping with butter, with a beautiful, golden crust. And maybe seseme seeds.

That sounds so good, I wanna roll around in it.

I think I might actually die if I don't eat some good bread today.
I gotta make a call. This is serious.

Posted by WonderGirl at 2:30 PM | TrackBack

August 19, 2006

Weepy

You know you're hormonal when you get teary-eyed at the end of "The Jungle Book 2". I really felt for Mogli.

Scary.

Posted by WonderGirl at 2:53 PM | Comments (1) | TrackBack

July 15, 2005

Sealed With A Kiss

My sweet baby,

Your head nuzzled into my neck feels like a lazy Saturday morning. I bask in the scent of your warm skin, the texture of your fuzzy hair, and I want to etch those sensations into my heart. I love the way you get as close as you can to me, your weight a drowsy hug that stills me and calms me. You are more beautiful every day, perfect in a way that I will always remember. I live for your shy smiles and timid glances, they are treasures. Thank you for being the baby you are, and for being my dream come true every day.

Love,
Mama

The Duke, deep in thought.

Posted by WonderGirl at 3:09 PM | Comments (2) | TrackBack

June 3, 2005

Postpartum Prayer

Lord, grant me the serenity I once knew nine months ago.

Give me a blind eye to the clutter that now fills my home.
Grace me with ears that hear what is actually being said, and not what I think they meant by it.
Lend my hands strength to change the thirteen thousandth diaper, fill the juice cups at lunchtime, and still hug my husband when he walks through the door.
Give me a mouth that smiles and says good things.
Bless me with eyes in the back of my head and an extra arm.
Expand my heart to fit my world.
Grant me a clear head, with thoughts that are healthy and productive.
Give me a body that leaps with the morning sun, and the ability to greet each day cheerfully.

And if You have time after all that, I'd love to be able to get my hair done.

Amen.

****

Posted by WonderGirl at 12:29 AM | Comments (3) | TrackBack

May 23, 2005

By Popular Demand

I promise not to turn this blog into all things The Duke, but these are going out by request of Grandma. I think she's in withdrawl, and really, who can blame her?

His Tootsies

Continue reading "By Popular Demand"

Posted by WonderGirl at 4:39 PM | Comments (4) | TrackBack

May 15, 2005

Mumsie Again

Hi, everybody! We are back home again, and before I crawl into the lovHeroBoyness that is my own bed, I wanted to post a few pictures and stats like I promised.

The Duke was born on 5/13/05 at 12:32pm after a really great labor. (I will write more on this later-- I absolutely CANNOT believe how easy this was compared to my others!!) He weighed 6 lbs and 11 oz, and was 19 inches long. He has his own look-- it's hard to say that he resembles Czarina or HeroBoy because he is just his own unique self. He has been a terrific baby, very sweet and cuddly. He absolutely loves snuggling, and we are happily accomodating!

All his newborn assessments were good, and the ultrasound of his bladder showed that the cyst was still there but non-interfering. They didn't even do one of his brain right now, because there was no neurological reason to do it. He passed his tests with flying colors, so they will just look at that fluid pocket in the brain next week, when he has a followup sonogram of his bladder. Our hopes, it will continue to shrink and disappear - the fluid AND the cyst-- and the dotors think this is what will happen. They say all signs indicate he is just fine and perfectly normal! Praise God.

He's beautiful.

Click for more pics...

Continue reading "Mumsie Again"

Posted by WonderGirl at 3:25 PM | Comments (22) | TrackBack

May 3, 2005

The Zen of Ten

Cursor blinks expectantly at me... and I begin to move my fingers across the keyboard, hoping something compelling will come before the eventual. Period.

Oops. Not that. Not interesting, not even to me.

Backspace to whitespace.

Cursor blinks again.

This has been my writing experience lately, and I know why. In only a week and half, the world will scoot over to make room for a new being. In ten short days, a new voice will join the comforting noise of my life. Ten days from the birth of a child, ten days from an eternal change. Ten days, ten tiny toes... how can I fit anything else in my mind right now?

I have the fears all mothers do. Can I do this? Even more, can I do this well? Can I give what needs to be given, teach what needs to be taught? Will my arms stretch far enough to hold all these things, each so special, so precious?

But fear is fleeting. I stand before the carousel of life's emotions, and fear is only one of the many blurs that passes ever so often. Behind it and before it are so many other feelings-- confidence, hope, assurance-- they all wave and laugh as life spins by, rising and falling to the merry tune ringing in my ear.

That's it. That's what I feel. Each year of my life is a turn of this carousel, with the joys and sorrows making oh so brief appearances. It's too fast, I know. Ten days. Becomes ten years. Becomes ten decades. Until this ride is over and the music winds down.

I want to live every second of it, I want to know that my quarter was well spent.

Ten days... they rush forward sweetly. My mind and body and soul are preparing for that moment. I am crouched low, arms outstretched, ready to sweep this little one up that comes so fast towards me. There is my inspiration, there is my creativity-- it's all poured into that one anticipation. It's why this computer screen blinks whitely at me, it's why there are no other words in my head right now.

And that's okay. There will be plenty to say, to share, very soon. For now, maybe just the turn of the carousel is enough.

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:51 PM | Comments (5) | TrackBack

April 25, 2005

R.E.M.

Last night at about four a.m., Czarina ran into our room yelling and scared us to death. We bolted out of bed, adrenaline turned full blast. Turns out, she had a really bad dream. When questioned, she told us tearfully that it was about "God's big old car". No further explanation was provided.

I have no idea how terrifying that must have been. I mean, God's car? Come on-- you know that's gotta be intimidating. But, she recovered, and dreamed quietly the rest of the night.

Anyway, her dramatic entrance interrupted my own strange dream, which I so wanted to share. But there's just no way to tell a dream you had without boring the pants off everybody listening, so I'll spare you the details. I will tell you, however, that I was Mrs. Luke Skywalker, we'd defeated the Dark Side, and there was swing dancing. There was also a little anxiety over future employment for my husband and whether there would be a pension check from the rebel forces. Oh, and if he'd ever used "Jedi tricks" to meet women before.

Motto of this story: Be careful what you watch before bedtime when you're pregnant.

It could have been weirder, though. At least I wasn't Mrs. Yoda.

Posted by WonderGirl at 11:22 PM | Comments (5) | TrackBack

April 21, 2005

Ultrasound Number #3564

In the continuing saga that is my pregnancy, I am now back on bedrest.

"Bedrest" is such a deceptive term. It sounds so nice, like I'm reclined in a big mound of pillows and sleeping the hours away. When in truth, it's terribly inconvenient and disruptive to our life. I now have to AGAIN figure out how to follow the doctor's orders AND make sure my kids are taken care of, AND let King Pen finish up this semester AND start his new job (since I haven't been able to work at all) AND not depend too much on all the other people in my life who have already bent over backwards for me the last three weeks.

It's frustrating.

Okay, 'nuf whining. I'll write later when I'm a little more chipper.

Posted by WonderGirl at 12:10 PM | Comments (4) | TrackBack

April 19, 2005

At 2 a.m.

My body whispers: Psst! Wake up!
My brain responds grumpily: What? Go back to sleep!

Body: I need to pee. Come on, get up.
Brain: No, I'm comfortable!
Body: Well, I'm not. And if I'M not, then YOU'RE not.
Brain: I hate you, you know that, right?
Body: Yeah, yeah, whatever.

Minutes later, the Brain is happily dozing again.

Body: Um... Brain?
Brain: What now, you jerk?
Body: Heartburn.
Brain: Oh you are just a piece of work. Why didn't you say something a minute ago when we walked past the medicine?
Body: It wasn't hurting then.
Brain: It'll quit in a minute, stop whining.
Body: No way, man. This is serious. My stomach lining is in major jeapordy.
Brain: I don't have a choice, do I? You're totally killing me here.
Body: Sorry, pal.
Brain: No you're not. Come on, let's get this over with.

Minutes later, the Brain is again nodding off.

Body: Look, I know you're going to be mad, but I'm thirsty now.
Brain: No. Go away.
Body: Seriously! My mouth is parched, it's like the Sahara in there! I can't make it until morning.
Brain: You're not going to shut up about this?
Body: No.
Brain: Okay, but this is absolutely the LAST thing we are doing. I'm putting your foot down.
Body: I hear ya, I promise. Last thing.

Mere moments later...

Body: Did you hear that?
Brain: NO!! I did not! And neither did you! You're just stalling!
Body: I swear I heard something.
Brain: You are SO getting Tylenol PM tomorrow night. Now, for the last time, GO.TO.SLEEP!

Body: Fine. You did remember to lock the front door though, right? That's all I'm saying. Because it would be way too easy for someone to sneak in here while everybody was asleep and just whack the lot of us.
Brain: That's ridiculous. And irrational. The only thing you need to be afraid of is ME if you don't SHUT UP!

Sadly, this went on for some time, before the Body finally got bored, and ran out of excuses to stay awake.

But by then, the Brain was busy thinking about how to blog about this the next day, and it was still several more hours before everyone had settled down again for the night.

You see what I'm working with here? Sheesh.

Posted by WonderGirl at 5:18 PM | Comments (3) | TrackBack

April 14, 2005

News from the MD

In an effort to help my doctor pay for his new Lexus SUV, I went to see him once again this morning. He's always happy to see me walk through the door! He told me his family has really been enjoying the new pool he put in, too. Glad to help, I said.

Anyway, I've apparently bribed my way into some good news. The amniotic fluid is up, which just goes to show that being lazy can be productive! I am off bedrest, and am now at reduced physical activity. He didn't release me to go back to work, but he said I didn't have to be off my feet so much anymore. I'll go back in a week (he mumbled something about getting a new widescreen tv), and they'll remeasure to see how things are. So, that's great news! I was prepared for whatever, but am glad I've got a little more time before this package arrives.

So, that's it, that's the update. I'll write more later.

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:52 AM | Comments (9) | TrackBack

April 6, 2005

An Apple A Day

Doesn't seem to keep my doctor away. Today's prognosis: Another week of bedrest.

Argh!! I'll admit, the first few days were nice. Extra rest, a break from chores, a little pampering-- I could close my eyes and pretend I was at the spa. But after a few days... the novelty wears off a bit and boredom sets in. Oh well. I am loaded up on movies to watch, and books to read, so maybe this week will be better.

As for the actual physical condition- my amniotic fluid was even lower, which was not good. I mean, come on! I did what I was supposed to! The doctor said I have oligohydramnios, which is not great but I suppose it could be worse. At least I am 32-33 weeks, and delivery at this point is not ideal, but it's not terrible. I go back in a week to be remeasured. If it's lower, they'll admit me to the hospital and hydrate me and give me steroids to help the baby's lungs develop faster. More than likely, they'd induce me if it gets to that point. Do you know how unready I am for that? Whoa. I mean, we haven't even settled on names, let alone gotten clothes and things together. I'm just so mentally not ready for this.

But, I'm not in a full panic, because that will only stress me out more, which is what we are trying to avoid. I'm okay. I'll be watching closely to make sure the baby is moving often, and I'll drink as much as I can, and maybe next week we'll have some good news. Maybe I'll bring two apples next time.

Okay, that's the update. More bloggy later.

Posted by WonderGirl at 6:02 PM | Comments (2) | TrackBack

March 31, 2005

Baby Business

What a morning! First, the good news. The fluid in the baby's brain measured exactly as it should! Hooray! The doctor said that he felt that what he was looking at was a perfectly normal fetal brain. He wants to look again, just to be doubly sure that it's not something that is coming and going since we have had one normal scan and one abnormal one. He seemed very positive though.

But you know we don't get off that easily around here, right? My amniotic fluid was a little low, probably due to the stress of well... just life, I guess. I wasn't consciously stressed about the baby, but I'll admit that life has been extremely hectic and fast paced lately. 2 kids, working full time, blah blah blah. Anyway, he put me on bed rest for a week. I'll go back next week and they'll remeasure the amniotic fluid and also look at the brain again to make sure we're still all clear there. If my amniotic fluid is back to normal, I'll be released to go back to work (maybe just part time?). If there is fluid in the baby's brain again, then we'll do an MRI to see just what's going on.

So, GREAT news, with a little inconvenient news as well. My mother-in-law is coming tomorrow, then my mom is coming Monday, to help with the kids. Thank goodness for them. I am really grateful for their willingness to help, though I hate to have to do it. But, hopefully being off my feet will take care of this little problem, and it will be a temporary thing.

Well, that's it for now. Thank you so much for all the prayers and love that you guys have sent our way over the last two weeks. God is good, to have blessed us with positive news and wonderful friends like you.

PS- We saw the baby looking at us during the ultrasound. It was crazy! The eyes were closed, then the baby blinked at us and looked all around. Strange, but cute, in an alienish sort of way.

Okay... back to bed now. Doctor's orders and all...

Posted by WonderGirl at 5:23 PM | Comments (3)

March 18, 2005

Glucose Test Reveals Sweet News

Okay, so I'm a nerd, with a disturbing affinity for corny puns.

As I suspected, I do not have gestational diabetes. I will take this as an omen to eat as much candy and carbs as I want. Huzzah!! I will commence celebration with Reese's Peanut Butter Eggs, truly one of the finest elements of Easter cuisine.

I'm only doing it because the baby told me to, though.

I plan on sitting down and doing some good, quality blogging tonight, but I wanted to post this quick note in the meantime, for those of you wondering how that turned out.

Happy Friday everybody! Enjoy your weekend. May it be full of chocolatey peanutbuttery goodness.

Posted by WonderGirl at 11:52 AM | Comments (6)

March 16, 2005

The Update

I should have known it would turn out this way when I learned the physician's name was Dr. Vague. No, I'm kidding, that wasn't his name, but he should look into having it changed. I suppose it's not his fault, but this was a very unsatisfying visit. I was hoping he'd say, "Your ob made a mistake and there's absolutely no reason to be concerned." But he didn't.

What he did say was, yes, there is a higher than normal level of fluid in the brain. It's not a lot, but we need to monitor it. Come back in two weeks, and we'll see if it's increased. He said some more technical stuff, too-- but I won't bog you down with the details. If you want them, write/call me and I'll share.

I know all the possibilities-- the best being that it will simply reabsorb and have no affect on the baby whatsoever. The worst, it increases and things get bad from there. I stay away from that line of thinking though. Everytime my thoughts head in that direction, I get all weepy and I can't survive the next two weeks like that.

The doctor wasn't willing to say everything was okay, but he did say he didn't think it was the worst case. But the truth is, it's not really in his hands, and I know that. God will do as He sees fit, and I trust that He knows better than me. Our lives are fragile threads maintained by His loving care-- but what better Hands to tend us? It doesn't mean that I am not sad or scared or weak... but it does mean that I am not alone, I am not forgotten, and I am not hopeless, not ever.

Anyway, thank you for your words of encouragement, and the prayers I know you were all saying today. I really appreciate that. Keep this little one in your thoughts in the next two weeks, that all the fears will be unfounded, and the worry that seeks entrance into our lives will find no hold. I am optimistic, despite the blue tone of this post. I think the odds are really good that this will resolve itself-- and that is how I will continue to think until I am told otherwise.

And that is that. I'll be tucking this away now, because life demands it of me. This is a nonstop ride we're on around here, and maybe that's not such a bad thing at the moment. Busyness has it's perks.

That's all for now. Dinner is ready, and I must feed the masses, else there will be mutiny...

Posted by WonderGirl at 6:44 PM | Comments (3)

March 15, 2005

Hello In There

This morning can be summed up in one word - "ugh". The cyst hasn't disappeared, but it hasn't grown either. It isn't interfering with the function of the bladder, so that's good. It's something we'll probably have to deal with when the baby is born, because it doesn't look like it's budging. At the most severe it would mean surgery, at the least it will mean monitoring for a while, and handling things like bladder infections and the like.

That's the good news (okay, well, it's not what I wanted to hear, but it's not horrible, at least.)

But, since it's the Ides of March, you can't get away without a little bad news. While they were doing the scan, they noticed that there seemed to be extra fluid in the brain (go figure, Annie.) Not much, but enough to warrant a closer look. So, tomorrow, I have an appointment with a specialist to determine if it is an issue or not. The doctor was optimistic, or he didn't want to alarm me, I couldn't really tell. He said he didn't think it was the worst case scenario, which is hydrocephalus, but he wanted to be sure. He didn't see other indications of that. I handled it pretty well in the doctor's office, but when I got home and looked it up... well, that was a mistake. Dang that information highway. Then I had to call my mother and mother-in-law with news of the visit, and I lost it a little. I'm sure I scared the lights out of them, but I'm okay now. I KNOW there's nothing that I can do, and I am trying to keep a cool head about it. I'm not the type to dwell on the worst that can happen, so I'll hang in there till tomorrow. My appointment is at 3.

Now, on top of all that, I got a call a little while ago from the lab that my glucose test showed high sugar. Oy. It was BARELY over the limit, and now I have to do the 3 hour fasting test, where they take your blood every hour and you can't eat, and blah blah blah. It's not a fun test to take, and I know it's going to make me sick and it'll come back just fine. I really doubt that I have gestational diabetes. I don't fit the profile at all, but hey, with the luck I'm having... who knows.

AND it's raining.

So, that's the post for the day, and now I need some high quality chocolate. America's Finest would hit the spot right now, but M&M's will do in a pinch.

Anyway, thanks for the thoughts and prayers this morning, you guys are just great! I'll be back on tomorrow evening with the results of this next scan. At least I'll get to see this baby up close and personal-- those high level ultrasounds are too cool! I'll post a picture if I can.

Till tomorrow.

Posted by WonderGirl at 4:20 PM | Comments (7)

March 14, 2005

News of the Baby Kind

My husband is not a fan of LoTR. He kept this well concealed until somewhere in our fifth year of marriage, at which point I figured an annullment was probably out of the question. And since I'm not Catholic or in a soap opera, I don't think I'm even allowed to do that.

Anyway. He lucked out.

I dragged him to the first LoTR, and had to elbow him awake a few times, much to my dismay. I didn't bother taking him with me to see the second one, and the marathon would have probably killed him for good--- so he never saw them. Until a few weeks ago, when I finally managed to rent the last two and I hogtied him. And gagged him. And reminded him how much child support would run if he didn't do this for me.

A good seven hours later, we were both thoroughly saturated in dramatic, theatrical dialogue and landscape. We were taking an intermission, and I stretched my back, trying to get the "pregnancy kinks" out. King Pen put his hand on my belly and asked, "So, how's the kiddo doing?", to which I replied, "Oh, it's fine. Kind of quiet tonight, though.".

And King Pen, with all the seriousness of Gandalf the White Wizard, proclaimed in his most dramatic voice, "His time has not yet come."

Smarty pants.

But, his time IS coming soon. I am 29 weeks. I figure I won't make it till 40 weeks, being the 3rd baby and with me working full time. So, ten weeks or less, and this little one will be here! I'm excited. I'm not impatient, but I am looking forward to meeting this little squirmy one. I'm to the point where I am starting to get a bit uncomfortable, but I'm not miserable yet. I've got a few more weeks in me before I really start to turn on the whine. Oh, and I see you rolling your eyes back there, King Pen. Careful now.

Anywho, all this to say, tomorrow I have an ultrasound. I had a routine ultrasound three weeks ago, and they found a uterocele (a cyst) on the baby's bladder. The doctor told me not to freak out, that these things often disappear. He said it didn't seem to be interfering with the functioning of the bladder/kidneys, and that was good. We would re-evaluate it in three weeks, and take it from there. Well, that's tomorrow.

I've done a very good job of taking his advice on not freaking out, and I've kept it in perspective for three whole weeks. But now, on the eve of the next ultrasound, I'll admit I'm fighting nervousness. I think it will turn out okay, I really do, but I would appreciate your thoughts tomorrow around 9ish. Send some good mojo my way, and I'll post an update when I get back.

Wish us luck!

Posted by WonderGirl at 6:32 PM | Comments (6)

March 5, 2005

7 Months Now!

Czarina told me today, quite seriously, that my belly button looks "mad". I have to admit I immedietely went to the mirror to see if she was right. I mean, that's not the kind of thing you can ignore, when body parts get angry with you. You have to address these issues head on. Don't want a mutiny on your hands... or feet... or whatever.

Anyway, turns out she was right. My belly button definitely looks a little "put out".

HAHAHAHA!

Well, maybe you had to be there.

Shut up.

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:24 PM | Comments (1)

January 27, 2005

Durn Those Hormones

Oh drat. I knew it would happen. A craving for a beautiful, vine-ripened tomato sandwich, with mayo and salt and pepper-- that you have to eat over the sink because it's so juicy it drips all over the place.

In January.

Won't someone please explain this to the one in utero that keeps demanding it? It won't listen to me.

As a side note, at first, I typed "hormonos", which tickled me.

Posted by WonderGirl at 8:22 PM | Comments (2)

December 7, 2004

Today's Pout

When you want your mom's homemade peach cobbler, nothing else will do.

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:52 PM

December 3, 2004

That Girl Ain't Right

What... is... happening to me? Where did I get the sudden urge to learn how to knit? Why can't I stop thinking about making a big, fuzzy scarf?

And why can't I eat cheese anymore?? It's not fair!! I try, I take a bite, and I just can't do it. WHO AM I if I don't like cheddar and mozzarella anymore? I don't even know that person.

This pregnancy thing is way out of control. Messin' me up.

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:09 PM

December 2, 2004

Guh.

Today, I:

-Woke up with a headache that was specially cooked up for me by the Devil himself. My eyeballs are throbbing evilly, STILL.
-Wore a maternity shirt for the first time, and felt rather ridiculous. Yet... comfy. And not at all pregnant.
-Ate, no make that INHALED two Hostess "E" cupcakes, and talked impressively fast for the next three hours, much to the chagrin of my coworkers.
-In the middle of this talkfest, TOTALLY spilled the beans about a pregnant co-worker to the BOSS... I swear, I thought she was telling people, but NO. Horror.
-Forgot to pay the water bill. Luckily, they turned it off to help me remember. They did turn it back on this afternoon though, after I had to LEAVE WORK to pay it, after a frantic call from my husband.

Sigh.

Update: I also attempted to leave work an hour early. I put on my coat, scarf, grabbed my bag, and said, "Well, I don't know where the girl is who comes in next, but my shift is over... so I guess I'm going."

Blank stares for a minute, then everyone burst out laughing at me. I still had an hour to go. Boy, I looked like a blooming idiot. I laughed so hard I cried though.

What is wrong with me today?

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:26 PM | Comments (8)

November 18, 2004

Cravings

One of the fun things about being pregnant is cravings. Seriously- there's nothing like being really hungry for something specific, then satisfying it. Now, not being able to have what you want when you want it is a different story. WonderGirl gets a little cranky when that happens. You don't want to see that. It gets ugly.

But I digress.

As morning sickness recedes, cravings rise. Here are a few that have cropped up lately.

1. Pickle sandwich - as in kosher spears and mayo on white bread. Yummers! Try eating that in the employee lounge though- it's not a big hit. Pickle smell, I suppose.
2. Buffalo hotwings- blame Sarcasmo. As of yet- an unmet craving... haven't had time to get them, and part of me dies each day without it.
3. Fried mushrooms- I'm THIS close to sending King Pen out to George's to get me some! Keep your keys handy, babe. I'll share, I promise. (if you just eat a few...)
4. Banana split- I confess I've indulged this craving more than once lately. This is totally unrelated to my recent weight gain, I'm sure.
5. Chili cheese dog (NO ONIONS!!) from Wards- the nearest of which is at least 3 hours away. Shoot. Are all my dreams impossible?
6. Tomato sandwich- as in RIPE GARDEN not waxy Wal-Mart. I don't see this one happenin' either. Oh, and no crust on that, please. I want it round like at a wedding. Hoo-whee!!
7. Chicken divan-- this is on the menu for the weekend. Creamy sauce, here I come! I shall expire in ecstacy.
8. Did I mention the hotwings? sigh.
9. Chocolate milk shake- and not that bland, hey-isn't-this-vanilla? stuff you get at MickeyD's.
10. White style spaghetti with a few canned tomatos. (don't ask me to explain this old family culinary delight. You'll be totally grossed out- just ask King Pen.)

As this list grows... sadly, so do I. I gotta pooch, now, ya know. It's cute though.

At least that morning sickness knocked off a good 7 pounds, though. My body is SO freaking smart!! I've got at least 7 guilt-free pounds to play around with!

*Evil smile.*

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:48 PM | Comments (8)

October 25, 2004

Memo To the Hormones

To: The Endocrinology System
CC: Cerebellum, Brain Stem
From: The Cerebral Cortex
Date: Week 9 of Fetal Development

We need to have a talk.

First off, I want you to know I appreciate all that you do for this company. The pituatary, excellent work there. Hypothalamus- top shelf. You really seem to know your business, and I don't even have to tell you what to do anymore. You've truly learned your way around the office, and that's terrific.

However. I do want to bring up the mood swings. We've had some complaints, that you're a little unpredictable. And that you're developing a rather blunt vocabulary. For the record, it is not appropriate to tell anyone to stuff anything (i.e. the remote control) anywhere on or in their person. This is simply not an acceptable response, no matter how fast they are clicking through the channels or what the volume level is set on. And, it is good to note, that people around you still have feelings, and you should refrain from calling them nutjobs, freaks, and &^#@$. You can see how this will benefit local communication and partnership, and increase pleasant interactions overall.

It's also been brought to my attention that you have developed a severe reaction to Extreme Makeover: Home Edition. While I cannot forbid you from outside interests, I do encourage you to seek hobbies that don't leave you sobbing inconsolably. I really don't get why you're crying anyway, but it's becoming a spectacle, and I think even Ty would admit to that. Perhaps it is best to avoid programs of this nature altogether for the next seven or eight months.

And lastly, I wish to address the levels of nausea that you've provoked in several of the vital organs, such as the stomach and esophagaus. I am unaware of a pre-existing conflict that would cause so vicious an attack on these gentle components, but if there is a problem, we need to discuss it. If you are unable to resolve this issue on your own, please see me in the restroom and we can review the contents again. And I shouldn't have to remind you that dry heaving and heartburn fall into this gastric category.

You're doing a great job in many other areas, and I'm sure that if you apply yourself, you'll improve in these as well.

Please don't point that finger at me. This is precisely the type of behavior I am referring to. It's not nice.

Sincerely,
The Cerebral Cortex

Posted by WonderGirl at 6:10 PM | Comments (9)

October 16, 2004

Thing One and Thing Two

Working in the midst of doctors and nurses can be a great thing. If I need some lab work ordered for me, there's a doc handy to sign off on it. (The hypochondriacs dream come true!) And bored nurses? They'll do sonograms for me! Had one today, as a matter of fact, and it nearly turned all my hair gray right on the spot.

There were two blips on the screen.

The nurse, Ann, who is also a fellow church member and dear friend, leaned over and stared at the screen. "Um... WonderGirl? Do you see what I see?"

"No," I said, in full denial. "That is NOT two. It can't be!!"

So, four nurses and one doctor later, we put that fear to rest. No, not two heartbeats. Just an optical illusion.

They're pretty sure, anyway.

Pretty sure?? Pretty sure?

Actually, the doctor seemed confident, so I guess I'll relax now. But let me tell you, I turned white as a ghost and I was shaking like a leaf. I was in shock at that idea! I could only think, my mom is going to have to move down here. Dad'll have to learn to live without her, cause I'm gonna need her!

I go sometime in the next week or so for an appointment with my real doctor, and he'll do another one that should be easier to read. Hopefully no more "optical illusions"! I don't think I'll fully be over the possibility until then... because sometimes even doctors make mistakes. (Don't tell 'em I said that though.)

What a day! *laughing shakily*

Posted by WonderGirl at 9:31 PM | Comments (3)

October 13, 2004

Names In the Running

People are already asking me what baby names I'm thinking of. That's okay, I don't mind the question, but I feel woefully unprepared to answer it. I really only have two I like right now, but I haven't put a lot of serious thought into it just yet.

For a girl, I like Rowen.

For a boy, I like Lex. King Pen says that's too Lex Lutherish, but I stand firm. Sounds cool to me. And cool is what it's all about, after all.

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:28 PM | Comments (17)

October 11, 2004

The Lights Are On, But Nobody's Home

If I had a bowl of soup, I'd be falling asleep in it right now. I'm so tired- it's silly, really. I've done the normal amount of things I usually do, but I feel like in addition to that, I've run a marathon. And built a house. And single-handedly towed a barge up the Mississippi River. With my teeth, people. It's nuts!

I'm guessing that as a result of my fatigue, I am low on blogjuice tonight. I just can't think of what I want to write! I've started and stopped about a dozen times and nothing seems to flow. Hate it when that happens! I feel dim. Not so bright. A few cards short of a deck. A... uh... well, you get the idea.

Hopefully, this will pass. A day off from work, and a quick trip to the library tomorrow should (crossing fingers) stimulate the gray matter, and I'll be back to my average, not-necessarily-a-rocket-scientist-but-can-carry-on-a-decent-conversation-and-occasionally-make-good-joke self. (once I got started on the slashes, I had to follow through, but SHEESH that took me forever to type.)

If anybody else has any ideas, I'm open for them. I'm the one sitting in the corner over there with the blank stare. Help a girl out.

Posted by WonderGirl at 10:48 PM | Comments (2)

October 4, 2004

So It Begins

Bleh.

Hello, morning sickness. I wondered when you'd show up.

Posted by WonderGirl at 6:02 PM | Comments (1)

September 26, 2004

Elaborating

Annie's right, I should blog more about being pregnant. (You might regret that request in the months to come, by the way. I'll try not to turn my blog into a babyfest, but it can be awfully tempting!)

Okay, so here's the deal.

I am incapable of keeping good news to myself, and I can never wait the preferred 3 months before telling people when I'm pregnant. So, I'm a month along, and blabbing to the mailman, to the lady at Wal-Mart and to the world at large.

The bad side to that is, if you miscarry, then you have to backtrack and tell everybody what's happening. It's ha