Happy Wrapping!

Thank the LORD for my mama! She wrapped about 10 gifts for me last night, getting me fully out of the weeds...I owe her so big time. So much so, that her gifts this year do not even do her justice. For, without her, I am not so sure I'd be vertical at this point in the year. She has not only been there since Luke was born, but even before when I was on bed rest, and all through his short 9 month (yes, 9 month) life. She has been my LIFESAVER, my best friend, my mama mentor, and so much more. I love her more than words could ever express. I hope you all (all 4 of you) have the same love for your mama's as I have for mine. Happy Holidays, Patty! xoxox

To Decorate or Not to Decorate?

We have a tree now. A real, living Christmas Tree. We got it at this place in our neighborhood called Under the Sun. The lady there was really nice and even gave us 25% off because we had a cute kid. ANYWAY. It has been sitting now for 2 whole days in our living room. Sitting in water, and totally nude. I am trying to decide if I decorate the tree BEFORE my brother gets here, or should I let him help us decorate it since he didn't get to decorate a tree this year? (He lives in London for all 4 of you who may or may not have forgotten.) The house is lit on the outside and the inner part of our home has some Christmas flare, but the tree. Naked. Butt a** naked. Thoughts?

635W and Midway

Today, while driving in this area of the city, I got trapped at a red light. No biggie. I had my radio on, Beyonce was telling me if I liked then I should've put a ring on it, and all was good in the world. Until I looked over to the right. That's when I saw the most depressing thing. And normally, I would not write about such sadness, but it really hit me and I didn't even know what to do.

There was a man, probably in his late 30's, early 40's, in a business suit, tie, jacket, nice shoes, sun glasses, the whole nine yards- holding a cardboard sign that read:

"Jobless Single Dad. Please take a resume. No obligation. I have a good car. God Bless."

Now what am I supposed to do with that? I cannot judge him for standing on the street trying to find work in this crap-inksy economy (thanks Barack), but it made me SO sad. He was legitimately trying to find work by passing out his resume to people going to work this morning. I admire that. I truly do, and it saddens me that the world has come to this. That we do not have enough work for everyone, and that we are forced to do things in which we would not normally do.

I couldn't bring myself to roll down my window for fear that I would not know what to say, other than to offer to print and mail him more resumes and pass his name and contact info around to a bunch of my friends, who would not be able to really help him find a job either. I mean, we are ALL trying to make ends meet here. But this is something that is weighing heavy on my heart. And even more so, now that I am a parent. I know that if I didn't have the means to make a good life for my son, I would go to the ends of the Earth to find a way. That's exactly what this Dad was doing.

So, if you happen to drive/live/go in that area of town, and you see that guy with the sign and resumes, take one for me. You just never know.

Something I learned by watching my 8 month old....

Today while we were playing, Luke showed me something that since I was a little girl, my Grandmother used to say to me. He sat up straight- perfect posture! My Grandmother used to tell me, "shoulders back and sit up." As a young girl, I really didn't care much to sit up straight and all that jazz. But now, as an adult, an adult whose back hurts a lot- it make sense to me to sit up straight and pull my shoulders back. You should try it too...I've noticed when I do sit up straight, I look about 5 pounds thinner....Something that every woman (you would think) would want.

In other news, my cousin told me last night about some new company whose entire venture is to sell you a girdle or something to suck in all the fat spots in your body, or lift your butt, or add butt, or whatever. Any clue as to what she is talking about, blog reader? I need a freaking jump suit made out of this material....anyone, anyone?

It must be the holidays....

I was in line at the grocery store the other day and the lady in front of me was acting like such a B to the cashier. She kept telling her how to bag her groceries and kept making these deep sighs. It was so annoying, but I had to keep my mouth shut. It's the holidays.

Then, Abe, Luke and I went this weekend to the Apple store to buy a gift that my parents needed for my bro. No biggie. Except NO ONE in the whole store wanted to help us. Umm, hello!? We are here to drop about $1200, so someone should WANT to help us. Come to find out, they prefer you to make a "personal shopping" appointment with them. Really? Really.

And finally, today, as I was folding some clothes (story of my life) and all the ads on TV were for these crazy 4AM or 5AM day after Thanksgiving sales. I am just thinking here, but since we are in an economic downward spiral (and it doesn't show too many signs of getting better) shouldn't the sales go, like, all damn day? I mean, who in their right mind is going to stand outside a store at 4AM the DAY after they have consumed at least 4000 calories?

It must be the holi-daze.

The Flip Flops

If you know me at all, you know that I wear flip flops (loud ones, I might add) pretty much year round. Yes, my ankles hurt and I think I have a small fracture in my left foot, but I LOVE my FLOPS. They are my comfort shoe, sort of like that favorite pillow or blanket you like to curl up with, I like to wear my JCrew Flip Flops. I digress.

Yesterday, while traveling to Houston with my bosses for a meeting, I wore my nice business suit with my nice Coach work bag, had my hair did and even a light spray tan... so I wouldn't look like death frozen over, and of course my black flops. I had my heels in my work bag to change into while en route to the meeting. My bosses, who have known me for about 10 years commented on how nice I looked, but that the flops were going to have to go. Duh, I told them. I have my uncomfy heels right here.

Ok, so we are done with our meeting and boarding the plane. The flight attendant looks at me and tells me how pretty I look, then sees my shoes and bursts out laughing. She said to boss #1- look at her shoes! That is so funny! She is so freaking cute with that suit and flip flops. He laughs, she laughs, I laugh. We all laugh. Ha.

So it drink serving time...Lo and behlod, who gets her crew rounds of FREE drinks because of her flops. This guy (er girl). Yeah she does!

Just remember, the next time you want to make a comment about my flops, you might want to think twice- I could score us some free booze.

A quick shout out...

Just a quickie to my ladies who read the blog...thank you for keeping up with me, even though I sometimes suck and don't update as much as you might like. Life tends to get in the way with an 8 month old, a part time job, a side business, oh yeah- a hubby, and of course all of my duties around the good ol' casa...

It's a new era in the life of I Heart Rocky Road- a goal that is being set WAY before New Year's Eve when I'll announce to the whole family that "this is the YEAR." The year to loose my baby weight, the year to start walking and attending my hip hop class more regularly, and of course the year that I try, try again to spend less and save more. The goal being set here tonight ladies and gent is that I update my blog at least once a week. Is that too much to ask? I think not. Now knowing that there is more than 1 person (Lori) reading. Ok, maybe 2 (Kiska).

Thanks AF for the push to blog. I needed the slight nudge. (Let's wine soon!)

Oh Firetruck, Oh Firetruck....

So, last night I tried something "new" in the kitchen. It's called cooking. I was making these yummy chicken breasts and a cheesy potato casserole and grilled broccoli. YUM. However, during the "pan frying" of the chicken, somewhere in my brain, I thought it would be OK to pour cool chicken stock into the SIZZLING HOT pan to scrape the yummy brown bits off to make my rue. Ummm, not so much. My lovely brown bits bellowed into smoke and turned from brown to black in a split second. Meanwhile, the fire alarm is going off, Abe is holding Luke's ears so as not to deafen my child, and my grandmother (bless her heart) is opening every door and window trying to fan out the smoke....then the Firetruck shows up. I walk outside, shamefully, and invite the guys in for dinner. Needless to say, they declined.

Dinner was yummy, but did get a little hairy there for a minute.

Rain Rain, Go Away....

This weather is nutty. It's been hot, then cold, then rainy, then hot. What gives? I am thinking Global Warming may be going on here....Or is it just that we live in Texas? At any rate- for the love....

In other thoughts- I've been wondering when Oprah was doing her "Favorite Things" show....Last year, she did all this "low budget" stuff because we started the recession. Wonder what it will be this year? I need some ideas for my Christmas list....

Hmmm....

I realized last night as I am lying in bed trying so hard to fall asleep, that I hadn't posted in a while....There has literally been so much going on in my life- that just THINKING about posting, or what to post, made me a little nauseated. (Not really, but I need some drama factor in here people.)

Anyway, the last 2 weeks have been pretty dang crazy around my house....For starters, while my brother from in town from London for a week, my grandfather passed away- bless his heart. (My grandfathers, not my brothers. I mean, we could bless my brothers heart, but I don't think he needs blessing....) Anyway, after the passing of good old Pop, our house aka the self proclaimed "money pit" decided to give me a run for our hard earned money. Our garage door broke ($600), then our AC went out ($375 plus a $60 co-pay to American Home Shield), all the while we were basically living with my grandmother, eating leftover casseroles and carting clothes and toys back and forth to the house for Luke. Don't get me wrong...I love a good casserole, but there are only so many nights that you can eat 'a la leftover'. Thirteen days after the AC broke, we are finally up and running! We are living at home (for now) and hoping that life can resume to it's normal pace.

Today, I am having a sinus headache from H-E-double hockey sticks and feel slightly hungover from my hip hop class last night. I am not sure if I feel bad because of the headache, or if my body is just that old and I really do need at least 8 hours of sleep at night. For the love, tonight I will be in bed as soon as the Luke-ster goes down in his newly lowered crib....yes, that's right. Luke's crib got a makeover last night. He's starting to "inch" and crawl around and the other day when I went in to get him from his nap, he was kneeling on his bumper pads, thoughtfully planning his escape from his bed. He was peering over the side of the crib and then with one had, hanging from his mobile. Why do I see Special Ops in his near future?

Well, I hope this was enough of an update for the 3 people who read....This afternoon, I am going to get my flu shot- wish me luck!

Dance Class...the Update

I finally did it! I went to my hip hop class last night...it was a total blast. However, I did realize that my body does not move as quick or as fluid as it used to back in the day. And back in the day means, the early to late 90's. We did a fun little ditty to a NKOTB song (a new one) and it was pretty fun. I highly encourage any one who use to dance or wants a good workout that is not only fun buy pretty inexpensive, the check out this dance studio. I'll be heading back there next week to get my groove on.

Dog Ear

It seems that the little man is figuring out that we have a dog. A great dog! A very tolerable dog, named Red. Red has been ever so gentle with Luke and all of his toys. He's only shredded 2 items- both of which were my fault. I taunted him by tossing them into a bin on the floor of Luke's room INSTEAD of putting them up higher where he could not reach (errr grab them with his mouth) and rip them to shreds.

So, Luke is growing up so fast- and he is learning. Learning about Red aka Puppy. This week, while at home with Luke, we were chillin' on the couch with Red/Puppy and I was trying to find something for Luke to watch on the TV- something suitable for the kid. Something not like The Real Housewives of Atlanta. Seriously. So, while I am semi-paying attention to Luke but really finding something on TV, I hear this CRAZY whining noise come from Red/Puppy. I look down and Luke has his ear in a death grip. I know Red/Puppy was hurting, because Luke pulls my hair, the hair closest to my neck, the hair that hurts when pulled, in the exact manner as the death grip was being displayed. Not enjoyable for Red/Puppy, but Luke was loving it.



Sometimes when Luke is rolling around on the floor, showing off his ability to roll to the left, to the left, to the right, to the right, noq dip baby dip, dip baby dip...where was I? Oh yes, showing off on the floor- Red/Puppy will come up and gently give Luke a lick on his face or on his head. It's the sweetest thing. What's even sweeter is when Luke is on the floor and starts getting tired and Red/Puppy comes up to him, turns on his side, and Luke places his sweet hand on Red/Puppy's belly. A pic I've to date, never been able to get because I cannot get my camera quick enough.

Anyhoodle- Luker is now 5.5 months old and like I said in previous posts, time if flying!

A little snot never hurt anybody...

Or did it? Seriously, I bet I have suctioned about 5 pounds from my little man's LITTLE nose. I mean, he has a little nose...Hell, he has a little body! How can something so small create such an abundance of this stuff? I should seriously consider buying stock in the company who makes "Little Noses." It's a saline solution for babies and we have gone through almost an entire bottle of this week.

NOTE TO PARENTS: Today at the pediatrician's office, they told me that this year was going to be the worst flu/cold season we've seen in a long time. They are encouraging every adult with child(ren) to get a flu shot and to stay away from crowded areas during the holidays, think malls, grocery stores, super stores, etc.

Sicky...

This week Luke has been feeling a little under the weather. He can't really TELL me that per se, but I know he doesn't feel good. It's what I like to call a 'mother's intuition.' My mom had it, my grandmother had it. I think it just comes with the territory. I am still waiting for those eyes to appear in the back of my head...

Ok fine! I did it!

I am on Facebook. Are you happy? Now, add me as a friend, because I sure don't know how in the world to do this Facebook business. I feel like a fish out of H2O. Seriously, this must be what it feels like for people born back in the 40's to have the Internet. New and scary!

Facebook Part II

This afternoon at work, I decided to jump on Facebook using my hubby's account to sort of surf around and see what's up with this whole love affair people are having online. It's cool, but really? I mean, it's like a glorified Twitter, sort of. And if you know me at all, I DO have a Twitter account but it never gets used. In fact, today, just for giggles, I logged on to see what I had been missing. Um, nothing. I am missing nothing. A bunch of people bragging about their business junk, moms giving other moms ideas on what to do with their kids in the summer, etc. Nothing that is TOTALLY newsworthy in my opinion. I had been surfing for about 10 minutes when I just decided to just do it. Just sign up for an account...Well, I didn't get very far.



I can't decide- do I join as me, or my business? I certainly cannot have 2 Facebook accounts going if I hardly have time to even SIGN UP for 1 account....Thoughts?

Facebook..

A few weeks back, I was approached by several (and by several, I mean like 5 people) to join Facebook. It seems that this is a constant topic of discussion and a consistently ongoing conversation among my friends and me (you would think they all owned stock in Facebook the way they are pushing this!)- the topic being my lack of presence on Facebook. I have my own reasons for not being on Facebook, those including the lack of time I have to check yet another social media outlet, raising a baby, working part time, having my own business and running a household. I mean, what's one more thing? At any rate, I am "IM'ing" with my mom this morning while at work, and she IM's, "I just signed up for Facebook. I have 4 invites!" I wrote her back, "HAHA, I am THINKING about joining." She says, "Why don't you?" This, coming from my mom who just started using her text message feature on her phone...I think it is time I join the ranks of the real world and join Facebook. Now, if I could only find the time to sign up. That's next on my list.

It took me 5 months to get my hair cut

About 5 months ago, I got my hair cut. Then I had a baby. I am totally not one of those people who forgets all about hygiene, etc. after having a baby, but I am one of those people who has a really hard time getting an appointment on a day when Abe is home, able to take care of Luke, and my hair dresser isn't booked....That day is TOMORROW! I am so excited, it's like Christmas Eve for me here, folks. I've waited for 3 LONG months to get my mop trimmed and now it's in such hideous shape, he'll probably not even recognize me when I walk in the door. (That and my a** has gotten like 10x its normal size, but who's really looking? I mean, seriously.)

Speaking of body parts becoming larger (or staying large after the birth of my child)...Along with a girlfriend of mine, I am going to start taking an adult hip hop class...I am pretty excited about this as I need something to help me shed the poundage, but also I've been wanting to get back into my "groove" and maybe, just maybe will this be the way. More on that once I start my class in August.

Also- my baby just turned 4 months. Enjoy the pic! Note: he's the one on the right.

Surgical Update...The Patients PJ's

Ok, so the surgery was Friday and it's Monday night. Abe is still in a lot of pain and unable to do literally anything for himself. When I got home from work (and getting the little man from the babysitter), I found my hubby on the couch with a stack of pillows and wearing pajama pants...elastic wasted pj pants. If you know my husband, you would know that this is pretty damn weird because 99.5% of the time, he is wearing cargo pants or shorts with a huge belt he bought at the Army/Navy Store and is always armed (concealed of course!) So to see him in elastic pants, sans the gun was a spectacle.

In other news, I have entered the second week of my part time job...So far so good, as they say. I think my little man is adjusting well to the babysitter and my body is still trying to catch up from all that's been happening lately in addition to the lack of sleep I am able to obtain. (Please note: it's almost midnight and I am up blogging. Why? Because it seems that I now have a serious case of insomnia after watching a 2 hour Bachelorette in which I vowed I would not watch, but secretly have been recording the shows just in case I became interested, which I have, so now I have to watch to see if Jillian the air sucking Canadian picks Ed who I think she should pick because he's cute and who cares if he had some probs in the bedroom, that will all get worked out. WHEW!) PS- that was ME telling you K-dog, that I am now totally watching the B-ette. Sorry...

Kuntry Update

While in the Kuntry, we tried to relax as much as possible...Until Abe cut his left index finger so badly that I had to drive him 30 minutes to the nearest ER- note: closest ER was in Paris, Texas which is just kuntry, no capital k. Anyway, after sitting in the waiting room for over 3 hours, finally we were called back. At this point, Abe is looking pale and I am irritated to no end about the service here. (There were only 2 other families waiting to be seen.) Anyway, doc comes in, looks at the cut, looks at Abe and says, "Ok, let me go get the stuff." Stuff? Do you mean, the sutures, numbing medication and bandages? He returns, attempts to numb the finger and then starts stitching. OW! His finger wasn't even numb yet- the doc just injects the medication and starts on his merry little way, telling us all about his dad and how he carried a pocket knife all the time, blah blah blah. Abe is wincing at the pain. And I am just standing there, unable to move because someone (I won't name names) is crushing my hand like an 18 wheeler could crush toothpicks. Once the doc finished with his whopping 5 stitches, he turned to the person crushing my hand and says, "Now you might have nerve damage, but there is nothing anyone can do about it."

Fast Forward to Friday, July 10. I am sitting in the waiting room of Baylor Frisco waiting for the hand crusher to get out of surgery to repair his severed nerve. Needless to say, I have my work cut out for me for the next 3 weeks while Abe cannot hold/change/bath/feed our baby, nor can he take out the trash, clean the pool, or mow the lawn. Added to my already long list of responsibilites, work, and baby, I now have all of Abe's chores. Lord have mercy.

Another July 4th in the Kuntry...

Last year, we traveled out to my in-laws, who literally live in the smallest town I've ever been to, driven through, or even known about. Last year, I was like 4 weeks preggers and didn't know it. This year, we are traveling back to this town con kid. This should be interesting. This year, I've used the guns as a bargaining chip...A very important bargaining chip. This chip got me home precisely one day EARLIER than planned...This year, instead of floating in the pool, sipping on boxed wine, and listening to the cows moo and grunt in the backdrop of this lovely "getaway" town, I plan on taking care of my kiddo and relaxing a smidge on the couch, glued to the Food Network learning how to make a meal in 30 minutes or less. Yes, there will be a brief shoot off between my husband and me, and there will most likely be a bit of annoying complaining coming from my big mouth...I seriously do not want to shoot the "Libyan" gun as I call it (it's really not...), but if it gets me outta dodge a day earlier, I'll shoot anything. Bow an arrow anyone? (Pics to come, I'm sure.) HAPPY 4TH!

The Ducks...

In past (VERY past) posts, I talked about some ducks landing in our pool and Red the Ween being semi interested in them- lunging, barking, then backing off because they had wings and he (clearly) did not. Well...I bring to you a sad, but true story of some ducks.

One lovely afternoon, I was driving on the Tollway (sort of over by my good friend Joel's house) when all of the sudden, I see a Mama Duck and about 7 baby ducklings waddling across my side of the Tollway. (Get out your Kleenex now, Kiska.) So, I see the ducks and I look in my rear view mirror and swerve to miss this poor family. However, I am just one car out of many traveling at this time of day. As I swerve, I look behind me to see what the other cars are doing...They are all over the road. I mean, you would think this were a damn video game or something...Lo and behold though, there was a car unable to skid out of the way of nature and about 15 seconds later, all the ducks were gone. Feathers tossed in the air. Gone. D-E-A-D. It was so sad, I called Abe in sheer panic and tears. I just couldn't get that sight out of my head. It was tragic. Why did that Mama Duck lead her babies across the Tollway for God's sake? The other side was no promise land- it was Carrollton for Pete's Sake!

When telling this sad, but true story to my dad, he had a very sage comment, "Well, that Mama Duck just made a bad decision."

Seriously.

The Bouncy Seat

Abe's boss gave us a few essential items to use once Luke got a little bit bigger, one of those a seat that bounces- a bouncy seat. I am not sure what the actual name of this thing is, all I can tell you is that it is a hoot to see Luke get in and try to bounce his way around. Last night we were in hysterics watching him bounce and twirl around. I think he might be a tad too young, but hey- this thing might be my saving grace to get dinner on the table and forgo another night of 7 minute quesadillas!

My Kid is 3 Months Old!!!

Time is FLYING! It feels like just yesterday I was headed back to the hospital for round 2 of induction. What a difference 3 months makes. I feel like I am totally getting the hang of being a mom. Granted, I have not been at a "job" in an office for the past 4 months, but I am still working my buns off...I start my job in July and am really excited to be working 3 days a week, leaving me 4 days to spend with the bambino and my hubby. What a wonderful life I have!

Yesterday, we went to get Luke's 3 month pictures taken and he showed off how well he could sit in a Bumbo. We have one at the house and I was hesitant to put him in it since his head still bobs around like a balloon on windy day; but sure enough, he was strong enough to sit his happy bum right in his new found "chair." He LOVES sitting in it and I LOVE him being able to sit there- gives me another set of hands and another distraction for him while I am trying to get dinner going or clothes folded.



Luke is growing into a little man and is just so happy. We are really enjoying him, watching him grow, and learning more and more about ourselves.

Family Portrait

Last weekend when the weather was to die for and our kid was on his best behavior, we decided to take him down the street to the neighborhood park and take some pics of him in the beautiful wildflowers. What we didn't think about was...he can't exactly sit up by himself. So the pics of him in the flowers are mostly of him lying down and squinting into the sun. SO- Abe and I hunkered down on the small blanket and had my mom snap a few shots. Here are the cute ones...

I don't mean to be picky, but...

Have you ever checked out the Texas Workforce Commissions website for jobs? Well, if not, lucky you. You see, today I got the boot from my company. And by boot, I mean phone call to let me know that my position has been "eliminated." Or...something like that. Anyway, here I sit after feeding my almost 8 week old his midnight bottle, filing for unemployment. As fun as that may sound- I did get a kick out of some of the "jobs" listed on the TWC site. They include (but are not limited to):

Wig Sales
Doll Hair Stylist
Fiber Customer Support Analyst

Huh? THESE are the jobs that I am supposed to be checking out? I don't want to get involved on any end (if you know what I mean) of that Fiber Customer job. So, friend of mine who reads my blog- if you have a job hunch for me, please send it along. You know where to find me.

Will work for baby formula.

Where's Waldo, errr Luke?

Luke is 6 weeks old!

Mother's Day is JUST Around the Corner...

Do you have a gift? If not, check out Between the Sheets Co. and order a classy sheet set for mom! Enter code: mymama and get 15% off!

Guess Who Came to Dinner!

Back in the big city (of Midland), my parents had an event to attend...An event in which resulted in my precious Mom being thrilled to attend because George W and Laura were going to be in attendance. When I dropped her off at Love Field to make the long 45 minute flight BACK to Midland from Dallas, I reminded her to take her camera and make sure she got a good pic of the Dub-ster. And a good shot she got! She even got to shake his hand! She was so excited about this monumental hand shake, she TEXTED me. It was the first text I have ever gotten from Patty...It said: "I shook hands with george bush very exciting"

Girl Scout Cookies and Post Pregnancy Weight Loss just don't mix

So it seems that Girl Scout Cookies (hereafter known as GSC) and trying to loose weight AFTER the birth of a baby don't really mix all that well. You see, when I was pregnant, I ordered GSC from a few of my girlfriends little girls- you know, I am supporting the Girl Scouts of America since I was one back in the day. (After dinosaurs roamed the Earth, but LONG before Bruce Jenner made a comeback on the hit reality TV show Keeping Up with the Kardashians, a show that I must say I am addicted to). Anyway, I ordered a few boxes for Abe and a gazillion boxes for myself- thinking that I'd have plenty of time to enjoy the cookies before the baby came and it turned time to start eating celery and lettuce again to get my semi-girlish pre-pregnancy figure back. Oh, not so much. Since I was on bed rest, I couldn't go pick up the GSC and therefore received them after the birth of my son, hence adding not only the baby weight to my list of things to loose, but now the 5 boxes of Tagalongs and Thin Mints. Today, I got on the scale, saw some whopping numbers that I didn't expect to see, and immediately began my diet back into normal weight zone. I am hoping to drop at least 10 L-B's before I head back to work in 3ish weeks...Doable? I sure hope so...

Luke is 1 month!

I cannot believe how fast this time is going with my little man. Luke is 1 month already!! Each month, I am going to try to take a picture of him in this chair with this funny stuffed animal from Where the Wild Things Are to show how big he is getting. Already, he is HUGE to me. At his 1 month doc visit, he is already weighing in 8 lbs 11 oz. Wowzers.

I think I've turned into my Aunt/Mother/Grandmother/etc.

Today was a GREAT day! Not only are my parents in town, but my brother is here from London for about 2 weeks! He arrived tonight and finally met Luke- what a fun evening we had with my grandparents, my parents, my brother, and Red all over. However, let the games begin- because for the life of me, I cannot call anyone by their correct name...example: I run through the entire list of names when trying to tell my brother something. Instead of calling him Scott, I start by calling him Red, Luke, Abe, and end up with, "whatever your name is." Which is totally something my Aunts, Mother, and Grandmother all did when I was growing up. There were so many of us kids, that no one could keep up. Back then, I thought it was really funny when they would call us all by the wrong name and end up using the "whatever your name is" line. Now, in my older years, it's not as funny. It means that I am getting OLD. It means that I need to start stimulating my brain more often. I am thinking of asking for a crossword puzzle book for Mother's Day.

Luke Luke Bo Buke, Banana Fana Fo Fuke, Me My Mo Muke, Luke!

I am absolutely LOVING being a mama! Luke is growing up (already!) so fast! He is such a joy and we are enjoying every little coo, cry, and smile...I hope time slows down for a bit! We went to the doctor for his 2 week check up last week and he is doing great. Stats as follows:
Weight: 7 lbs 7 oz (birth weight: 7 lbs 3 oz)
Height: 20.75" (birth height: 20.25")

We are loving life!

Looking for Easter Basket Stuffers?

www.betweenthesheetsco.com

I thought this is what I would be like....

But it's not! So far, no dry heaving!

We did it!!!

Labor Day- Part Uno

For the past 2 days, Abe and I were lucky enough to spend some time in Labor and Delivery. Unfortunately, we came home empty handed, but are sure to return later in the week for part deuce of L&D. It seems that my body isn't quite ready for the labor or delivery. I did spend 20+ hours IN LABOR, but it was all "faked" by using drugs to force me to contract. Fun times. Contractions are bad, but it's really not AS bad as I thought it was going to be. Sure, I am tired as all get out and my body feels like a punching bag, but it's all for the love of Luke.

More on Labor Day- Part Dos

Can you see his face?

Very soon, I'll see his face in REAL LIFE, not on a sonogram...I am getting very excited!

Bags are Packed, I am Ready to Go...

Sort of. So, my mom and I packed my hospital bags this week while she was here. So, I guess that means I am officially "ready" for the hospital, however I don't really FEEL ready. I feel like there is supposed to be like 4 more months of this biz-nass. No? Ok.

I had my typical Friday doctor's visit today and while I got a great report (labs came back good, bp was steady, I am 80% effaced, and still on bed rest), I was told that we will be inducing the week of March 9. Which means, March 9ish or 10ish, I could have this baby...Scared? Yes. Excited? Yes. I am feeling so many emotions, it's hard to pinpoint just which one is stronger...I am leaning towards anxious. But whatev. This kid is going to come out one way or the other, so we'll just take it day by day, step by step. (Hey- wasn't that a NKOTB song? Step by step, ooohhh baby, got to get to you giiiiirrrrrllllll.)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GQ5eZSa7URA

Like how my mind wanders...welcome to bed rest people. More updates to come as we near the end of pregnancy, when this blog will mostly be about my baby, my mood swings, and my lack of social skills.

Bed Rest is Like Being a Dog

Today, while eating lunch (in bed) I was thinking...My life really has turned quite into what I like to call, "a dog's life." All I do is sleep, eat, lounge around and go to the bathroom (inside of course!). I've always said that dogs have it so easy, and by my calculations of being on bed rest for 16 days now, I believe this gives me enough research to prove my theory.

Bed Rest = Dog Life

Prior to my bed rest days, and even way before I was pregnant, I would often leave the house to head to work and think, "Man, dogs have it so easy! All they do all day is sleep! I wish I could be a dog." Careful what you wish for; lesson learned. The only REAL differences in my human life vs a dogs life: variety of food and the ability to accurately communicate my needs/wants. And even having the ability to communicate has been semi-lost since my brain has begun to turn mushy from not "exercising" it as frequently as I would normally had I had a full 9+ hour day at work. Don't get me wrong, I am reading and trying to keep my brain as up to speed as possible, but without being stimulated by problems, stress, and the everyday antics of an office environment (and even more so, and advertising office environment), my brain is a little on the slow side these past few days. I am hoping my agility will re-appear once my baby is born. Even more so, I am hoping that my life will turn from it's regular "pooch" state to a nice even-keeled, level headed, "mama" state.

Woof!

Bed Rest, Morning of Day 13

This morning while enjoying some homemade coffee cake (thanks to Chef Patty) and grapes, I was watching the trees sway back and forth outside my breakfast nook window. (I am going somewhere with this, I promise.) Anyway, as I am downing this delish piece of cake, I see a teenage boy and girl walking hand in hand with their backpacks strapped to their backs, walking AWAY from the high school...this can only mean one thing. They are playing hookie to go make the nookie. Me, in my VERY pregnant state had such a desire to run (more like trot or even waddle because at this point I have a large watermelon- at least that what it feels like- trying to escape from my body) outside and physically SHOW THEM what happens to little boys and girls should they skip school. BABIES. BABIES happen.

Amen.

Looks like Red is on Bed Rest, too

For 8 days now, I've been in this bed, and for 7.5 days, Red has wanted NOTHING to do with me, except for now. I lured him back here with chicken salad and crackers, but before I could even get going on my lunch, he laid down and started taking a nap. What a cute pup I have...I hope he stays back here all day- it would certainly make the day go by much faster having someone to talk to (sort of).

To Facebook or Not To Facebook- that is the REAL question....

Since I've been on bed rest for a week now, I've been getting some "advice" to join Facebook. A while back, I joined MySpace which I have since found out is "so last year," so I've closed my account. I am just not sure if Facebook is something, in addition to my business, a soon to be baby, and then on top of that, my full time work, that I want to try to keep up with. Sure, I am on bed rest now and getting to that point where I could use something to do- but do I want to spend my time on Facebook? Is that how I want my friends to communicate with me? I am not so sure. I like the old fashioned email or phone call. Call me crazy- but I am not so sure Facebook is the answer to my boredom...Thoughts?

Bed Rest EOD 7, and a funny....

I have officially made 7 days IN BED. As my cousin would say, "It's a Christmas Miracle!" No, seriously- it is a miracle. I got to get out today to go to the doctor (everything is looking good), and then I came straight home and slept, something I haven't done yet since I've been bed rested. It felt good and I am going to try to get at least 1 nap a day out of this gig...

In other news. When I turned on my street to get home after my doctor's appointment, I saw the most bizarre thing. (Many of you might know, but there is a lady in our neighborhood who takes walks with her cat. With her cat in a stroller. A baby stroller. One night, Abe was outside doing something in the yard and the lady came walking up to him with the stroller and when he approached the stroller- thinking he'd see a cute baby- he was faced with a cat. AND he was quite shocked. I mean, come on, a cat in a stroller?) So, today I turn the corner to see a lady WALKING a cat on a leash. For real. I had to do a double take- I mean it has been a while since I've been out in the real world- surely my eyes would not deceive me this early on! But it was confirmed. The lady was walking a cat. A cat on a leash. I wish I'd had my camera with me, or the guts to stop and even take a picture with my phone- but I was in such surprise I didn't know what to do. It was truly hysterical!

Once I pulled into the garage, I muttered to myself, "Now I've seen it all." I am rethinking that statement because with baby on the way, I know I have not seen it all, but it sure did feel like it today.

Bed Rest Day 5ish

Today marks the 5th-ish day that I've been on bed rest (the day has just started). Not the most fun and enjoyable time in my life, but I will say there are a FEW perks. (this is me trying to be positive!)

1. I don't have to pick out something to wear everyday- I wear PJ's.
2. I can go 2-3 days without washing my hair, however I have showered EVERYDAY since I've been in bed- shocking I know!
3. I've finished writing all my shower thank you notes!
4. I hardly ever put on my brazzer...like ever.
5. I have gotten caught up on every episode of Oprah, Intervention, The City (which I am reconsidering watching) and Housewives of Orange County...I am about to embark on season uno of 30 Rock (thanks to Chris and Kelley for loaning me their copy!)
6. I get to ask Abe to dust the house and he does it!
7. I have ALL day to work on Between the Sheets Co and not feel guilty about it.
8. I can start AND finish knitting a scarf probably in a week (think Christmas gifts here, people).
9. If I feel the need to take a nap, I can because I am already in bed and comfy- all I have to do it close my eyes and voila!
10. I am saving a TON of money on gas and by not Eating Fresh...and trust me, saving the cash at this point is imperative due to my short term disability kicking in about 5-6 weeks early.

Making 10 was a stretch, but I did it! More updates to come!

Day 3 and Counting

This is the third day in a row that I have gotten to watch The Martha Stewart Show...She is a very crafty lady...Today's show is all about Valentine's Day...she is making fun and totally not doable desserts. They look delish, but I would venture a guess to say that I would just head to Central Market to pick up my sweets for tomorrow.

Today's goals include getting to the doctor and NOT being admitted (for the third time), working on some Between the Sheets Co. designs, and getting my hospital bags packed. All attainable- I hope!

PS- does anyone know what happened to Chris Brown and Rhianna? I am getting some conflicting reports from TMZ, the Internet and Entertainment Tonight.

Bed Rest Day 2

Ok, so it's been about 24+ hours of bed rest (with one minor break out last night to the hospital and a friends house, AND to get a lottery ticket- we lost...). It was good to be out of the house, however I felt bad. I have been told to STAY HOME in BED, and I felt like I was breaking the rules, therefore it wasn't as much fun as I was hoping for. It felt like I was sneaking out of my house, mom knowing.

This morning, I am watching the tail end of the Today Show where they are showing body shaping tools for women...One of the items shown was a padded "junk in the trunk" pair of undies...Huh?



Random, I know...I guess being at home and able to watch the tube all day, I will be learning a lot, keeping up with my reality TV and celeb gossip...

Bed Rest is Boring

So, I've been on bed rest for officially about 12ish hours now and boy, what a beat down...I've always wondered what it would be like to be on bed rest, I had all these great thoughts about it. You know, like, I'll have time to get the house cleaned, fix great dinners, run errands. Oh hell no, that is NOT how it works. It literally means BED REST. In bed (or on the couch) RESTING.

I feel like I am sitting in a really boring class at school and only 4 minutes have passed since I last looked at the clock. You know the feeling. It's horrible. My only saving grace is tonight, I get to break out of this joint and head back to the hospital to drop some stuff for the lab, THEN I get to see my friend Amy to pick up some of my work junk from her house. I cannot tell you how pumped I am to see her. Then tomorrow, my cousin and her hubby are going to come over to visit me (and bring lunch I think!). When my cuz comes, she will bring with her magazines, books, and DVD's for me to keep busy reading/watching. Lord knows I need SOMETHING to do other than just sit.

I am sure this will not be the last post...So, stay tuned.

Where's Waldo, I mean Fidelio?

My mom and the GPS

Tonight, Abe has loaned my mom his GPS so she can get from Dallas to Austin, then Austin to Midland- all without having to "google map" and print the old school way the directions. Watching him train her has shown me how patient he is with teaching- a trait that I am thrilled he has! It's funny though to hear the questions my mom has for him on how this GPS works. It's cute. I am excited that she has embraced technology, but a little nervous that this GPS thing might add a little bit of stress to her trips. I am hoping she doesn't get frustrated with this gadget...I am hoping that she can make the trips without any tears or confusion...More to come on this adventure de Patty.

Just another typical day at the oficina

I present to you, just another day at the office...Hispanic style of course!



Yes, that's right. It's a mariachi band. And a LOUD one I might add. We had quite the feast of Italian food, (brought in from a local dig, pretty good, however I am having some massive heart burn now) Heineken and Tecate beer. I am just having a little trouble understanding why we had so much "hispanic" influence of beer and entertainment, but Italian food for lunch. Ponder that one, Internet.

My cousin, the doctor....

Many friend always hear me talk about "my cousin, the doctor." Well folks, here she is- on Good Morning Texas. It's very cool that she was chosen to appear on their show and she looks fabulous!

http://www.wfaa.com/video/gmtgeneral-index.html?nvid=321639

Doesn't she look great? And she's so smart and cool! I am so proud.

King Beds...

FINALLY- I broke down and gave in to the "king bed fight" Abe and I have been having for 3 years now. When we first got married, Abe asked me, "So don't you think we should get a King?" Me being frugal and totally happy with my cute queen bed I had just purchased 2 years prior denied his claim. It wasn't until 1 week ago (and 7 months into pregnancy) that I discovered I was using more pillows to keep me propped up and comfy AND my poor hubby was sleeping like a sardine in our queen bed because I was taking up all the room. (Sorry Abe!)

So, without further ado, we went mattress shopping. We hit all the "white sales" and even a few places I had no clue even had mattresses, before finding the right one. Mattress purchasing as a couple is very difficult because I like a softer sleep and he likes a firm mattress. Totally fine- we compromised. And we are both totally satisfied with our situation. Except for one minor detail. We don't have a king BED.

We didn't even have king slats to rest the box spring and mattress on. So, what did we do? We purchased a ghetto fabulous 'universal bed frame' from Sam's Club and put that sucker together.

What's that you say? Do I have bedding? Whoops. Nope. Don't have that either. We have one set of king sheets and A king blanket to sleep with. Wait, what? You want to know how someone of my age and with a dual income doesn't have an actual bed, just the gangta' frame and blanket? Yeah- no clue dude. No clue. I have a feeling that before this baby (named Luke btw) is birthed that we may be venturing out to purchase an actual bed (with rails and everything, people!).

Needless to say, we are LOVING the king on wheels (side note: there are wheels on the ghetto-fab universal frame).

Freelance "Bloggers"- How do they make the mula?

I have been online for the past 2 hours trying to figure out just how these self-proclaimed bloggers make an actual, decent living off blogging...Sure, I have AdSense and I try to drive people to my blog, but these folks are like stay at home moms (SAHM's) and make money blogging. What do they blog about? Their kids, crafts, recipe showdowns, etc. I want to be a blogger who makes the mad cash (in addition to a SAHM)...How do I do this? What topics can I talk about that will drive my fan base up to a whopping 10 people? Am I just totally missing something here?

Please internet, fill me in. What can I do to earn that extra cash?

Riddle

Question: What is Red's favorite sweet snack while Abe and I are out to dinner?

Answer: a one pound bag of dark chocolate M&M's

(Note: we spent $193 at the emergency vet New Year's Night getting/forcing Red to barf up the bag 'o fun...Whatta way to ring in 2009!)