Ribbons, Recipes and Reading

7 Deadly Sins TAG + Book #4 Update

2012-02-06T18:29:00.000-08:00

TAG QUESTIONS:

1. GREED: What is your most inexpensive beauty item? What is your most expensive?

2. WRATH: What beauty products do you have a love/hate relationship with? What product has been the hardest to get?

3. GLUTTONY: What are your most delicious beauty products?

4. SLOTH: What beauty product do you neglect, due to laziness?

5. PRIDE: What beauty product gives you the most self confidence?

6. LUST: What attributes do you find most attractive in the opposite sex?

7. ENVY: What items would you most like to receive as a gift?

100 Questions No One Asks

2012-02-02T04:50:00.000-08:00

1:Do you sleep with your closet doors open or closed?
2:Do you take the shampoos and conditioner bottles from hotel?
3:Do you sleep with your sheets tucked in or out?
4:Have you ever stolen a street sign before?
5:Do you like to use post-it notes?
6:Do you cut out coupons but then never use them?
7:Would you rather be attacked by a big bear or a swarm of a bees?
8:Do you have freckles?
9:Do you always smile for pictures?
10:What is your biggest pet peeve?
11:Do you ever count your steps when you walk?
12:Have you ever peed in the woods?
13:What about pooped in the woods?
14:Do you ever dance even if theres no music playing?
15:Do you chew your pens and pencils?
16:How many people have you slept with this week?
17:What size is your bed?
18:What is your Song of the week?
19:Is it okay for guys to wear pink?
20:Do you still watch cartoons?
21:Whats your least favorite movie?
22:Where would you bury hidden treasure if you had some?
23:What do you drink with dinner?
24:What do you dip a chicken nugget in?
25:What is your favorite food?
26:What movies could you watch over and over and still love?
27:Last person you kissed/kissed you?
28:Were you ever a boy/girl scout?
29:Would you ever strip or pose nude in a magazine?
30:When was the last time you wrote a letter to someone on paper?
31:Can you change the oil on a car?
32:Ever gotten a speeding ticket?
33:Ever ran out of gas?
34:Favorite kind of sandwich?
35:Best thing to eat for breakfast?
36:What is your usual bedtime?
37:Are you lazy?
38:When you were a kid, what did you dress up as for Halloween?
39:What is your Chinese astrological sign?
40:How many languages can you speak?
41:Do you have any magazine subscriptions?
42:Which are better legos or lincoln logs?
43:Are you stubborn?
44:Who is better...Leno or Letterman?
45:Ever watch soap operas?
46:Are you afraid of heights?
47:Do you sing in the car?
48:Do you sing in the shower?
49:Do you dance in the car?
50:Ever used a gun?
51:Last time you got a portrait taken by a photographer?
52:Do you think musicals are cheesy?
53:Is Christmas stressful?
54:Ever eat a pierogi?
55:Favorite type of fruit pie?
56:Occupations you wanted to be when you were a kid?
57:Do you believe in ghosts?
58:Ever have a Deja-vu feeling?
59:Take a vitamin daily?
60:Wear slippers?
61:Wear a bath robe?
62:What do you wear to bed?
63:First concert?
64:Wal-Mart, Target or Kmart?
65:Nike or Adidas?
66:Cheetos Or Fritos?
67:Peanuts or Sunflower seeds?
68:Ever hear of the group Tres Bien?
69:Ever take dance lessons?
70:Is there a profession you picture your future spouse doing?
71:Can you curl your tongue?
72:Ever won a spelling bee?
73:Have you ever cried because you were so happy?
74:Own any record albums?
75:Own a record player?
76:Regularly burn incense?
77:Ever been in love?
78:Who would you like to see in concert?
79:What was the last concert you saw?
80:Hot tea or cold tea?
81:Tea or coffee?
82:Sugar or snickerdoodles?
83:Can you swim well?
84:Can you hold your breath without holding your nose?
85:Are you patient?
86:DJ or band, at a wedding?
87:Ever won a contest?
88:Ever have plastic surgery?
89:Which are better black or green olives?
90:Can you knit or crochet?
91:Best room for a fireplace?
92:Do you want to get married?
93:If married, how long have you been married?
94:Who was your HS crush?
95:Do you cry and throw a fit until you get your own way?
96:Do you have kids?
97:Do you want kids?
98:Whats your favorite color?
99:Do you miss anyone right now?

Thanks for Watching!

Ben Montage 5.5 Months

2012-02-01T03:44:00.000-08:00

Sorry the initial still looks inapproprite!
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Prune Face

2012-01-31T06:02:00.000-08:00

Ben usually has some sort of pureed fruit for beakfast. This morning he was having prunes. He thoroughly enjoys them. After he takes a bite, he sucks his thumb for a second or two to make sure he gets every last drop down his gullet. Then, when he's all done, he throws a quick fit when I'm taking him out of his chair to let me know he wants to KEEP EATING. Even though, I know there can't be anymore room in the little belly!

CUtting for Stone

2012-01-20T03:32:00.001-08:00

A Thousand Splendid Suns

2012-01-18T02:42:00.000-08:00

The Clearing: Review

2012-01-17T04:11:00.000-08:00

A Day in the Life Part 2

2012-01-16T05:26:00.000-08:00

This seems like it would be so boring to other people but alas... here 'tis!

A Day in the Life Part 1

2012-01-15T16:14:00.000-08:00

I'm Addicted - Media Tag

2012-01-13T05:38:00.000-08:00

Thought this was an interesting TAG!

Happy Friday everyone!

http://www.youtube.com/user/TheThirdShift

Media TAG

Are you addicted to social communities / social networks?

Would you rather give up TV or the Internet

Do you listen to the radio -- which stations

Do you read newspapers or magazines

Do you place great importance on your cellphone

Do you have a notebook / tablet PC

What are your favorite books

Would you rather give up books or movies

What are your favorite TV series

Would you rather stay in and watch a DVD or go out to see a movie

If you were starring in a movie, what genre would it be?

Which movie/book/TV character is most like you?

Which celebrity would you like to meet?

Do you have any favorite computer or console games?

What is your favorite music genre?

Which band or singer did you love as a kid or teen?

Why did you join the Youtube community?

Top 11 YouTube Moms of 2011

2012-01-10T12:20:00.000-08:00

I'm having some technical difficulties turning these into links. If all else fails, copy and paste!!

5 Months

2012-01-05T14:19:00.000-08:00

Ben is 5 months today!

I cannot believe it.

He's into making Pteradactyl noises. He likes throwing his arms around. He goes through rasberry blowing phases.

He's had banana three times and he loves them. He's had green beans twice and he loves them even more. Mainly he just has milk and formula though.

His favorite toy is a colorful link chain. He laughs hysterically at the words "potato" and "diaper" when they are enunciated.

He loves yoga and "Baby Gym" as long as he's fed and rested. We also enjoy play group with F. and A. We've been going to New Moms Group pretty regularly but may be growing out of it! Ben is one of the oldest babies now!

1 Month

2 Months

3 Months

4 Months

5 Months

While this post is really about Ben, I must say that I feel like a new person too. At yoga today, the teacher was talking about evaluating yourself where you are right now, what you're feeling right now. The word for the feeling that came to me was "joy". I don't want to get too cheesy, but I'm so happy compared to where I was 2 months ago when I was plotting my demise. Post Partum Blues are a biotch. It also ironically conincides when I stopped eating dairy and therefore, Ben stopped his incessant screaming. :)

Love always.

Santa v No Santa

2011-12-22T17:34:00.001-08:00

Holly Jolly Christmas Tag

2011-12-19T14:30:00.000-08:00

QUESTIONS:
Favorite Christmas Movie?
Are you on the Naughty list or the Nice list?
Show us an embarrassing Christmas Card photo! (WE KNOW YOU HAVE ONE OK)
Have you ever had a White Christmas?
Where do you usually spend your holiday?
Play or Sing your favorite Christmas Song!
Do you open any presents on Christmas Eve?
Can you name all of Santa's reindeer?
What holiday tradition are you looking forward to most this year?
Is your Christmas tree real or fake?
Hands down, what's your all-time favorite holiday food and holiday sweet treat?
Be Honest: do you like giving gifts or receiving gifts better?
Show us your tackiest Christmas attire (ex: Ugly Sweater)
What would be your dream place to visit for the holiday season?
Does your family have a special holiday recipe you like to help make?
Are you a pro-present wrapper, or do you fail miserably?
Most memorable Holiday moment?
What made you realize the truth about Santa?
Do you make New Years Resolutions? Do you stick to them?
What makes the Holidays special for you?

Wedding Vlog: The Dress

2011-12-15T17:36:00.000-08:00

A Day in Cloth (Mostly)

2011-12-09T04:00:00.000-08:00

I believe the first person who made this video did it to show how easy cloth diapering can be. Well, it can be easy, but the day we decided to do this video didn't turn out tp be the easiest day! :) Nonetheless, we carried on.

5 Rediculous but Awesome Things I Want for Christmas

2011-12-08T12:19:00.000-08:00

1. Bacon Press
2. Cosmetic Grade Glitter
3. Dark, Skinny Jeans
4. Pure Prana Yoga Pass
5. Blog Pimping Out

Crib v CoSleeping

2011-12-07T06:02:00.000-08:00

Night 1: See Vlog

Night 2: Was a bust. I was so tired Ben ended up in our bed at 1 am for the rest of the night.

Night 3: I'll let you know!!!

4 Months

2011-12-05T15:01:00.000-08:00

Well, Ben is snoozing beside me and has been for the last 3 and a half hours. He didn't have much of a reaction to his 2 month shots but this time he's been sleepy and fussy. Hopefully he'll feel all better soon!

He was 14 lbs and 2 oz this go 'round! He's in the 30% for weight but his head circumference was in the 75%! What a noggin!

4 months

This past weekend we headed to Charlottesville to visit some great family friends and have Ben's picture taken. Can't wait to see the shots! I'll share when I get them.

That's all for now.

Love always.

Weekly Menu + Some Random Other Notes

2011-11-24T11:49:00.000-08:00

Here's the links mentioned!

Tennessee Cookbook
Gnocchi with Zucchini Ribbons

Cookie Find + Weekend Events

2011-11-21T13:55:00.000-08:00

Baby Buys 11/16/11

2011-11-17T04:11:00.000-08:00

Here's a picture of the diaper that I don't show in the video.

Menu for the Week [11/13 - 11/18]

2011-11-13T09:32:00.000-08:00

We're skipping out on church this morning because Ben has the sniffles. a) I don't want to get any other kiddos sick, b) I'm not sure if other people would enjoy listening to Ben snort through the service if we didn't take him to the nursery and c) I don't want to be in the Cry Room for the whole service so, were sitting this one out.

So we had a few minutes this morning to plan a menu for the week.

Sunday: Grilled Sausages (for C and J), Grilled Veggie burger for me w/ grilled asparagus and potatoes

Monday: Lentil Burgers w/ Cucumber Salad

Tuesday: Chicken Scallopini

Wednesday: Fish or Scallops with Brown Rice and Asparagus (We got the asparagus from Costco, so there's a lot!)

Thursday: Pizza (we do the Trader Joe's pizza crust with veggies and whatnot at least once a week. Kind of a delicious garbage disposal meal).

Friday: Spaghetti with Chicken or Turkey Meatballs

That's what we got for now. I saw Costco has turkeys available now so I'm really having a hankering to brine a turkey and cook it. I don't even like turkey. But, I must do this next week.

Okay, love always.

Check this out!

2011-11-12T11:13:00.000-08:00

First, I excited to be the "Celebristy Guest" this week on Pampers and Pumps. Go check it out!

Next, it's National Blog Posting Month. Who knew? Not me anyway. So, I'm not going to be able to make the challenge of blogging daily for the month. But, I might knock some out. One prompt that sparked an interest for me was "If you knew that whatever you ate next would be your last meal, what would you want it to be?"

Prepare to be disgusted. Or, to salivate. But, honestly, I've been dying for a Five Guys hot dog and fries. I don't think this is what I would want as my last meal ever, but this is definitely what I want for my next meal. But alas, it will not be. Maybe sometime. Just can't spring it right now.

My last meal EVER would defintely have to include mashed potatoes. And my mom's white gravy. Actually, that would be it. Mashed potatoes, white gravy and Barboursville Octagon Wine. Done.

3 Months

2011-11-10T04:31:00.000-08:00

     I cannot believe this little guy turned 3 months old on Saturday. He's like a whole season old! He's finished with his fourth triemester. (All that 4th trimester jargon proved entirely true for us by the way. I don't don't if it was me changing my diet - I like to think so - or him growing, but he's a much happier baby).

      He's trying to roll over as I type. He did it one time, on the 1st, but I think it was a fluke because he hasn't been able to repeat this feat.

     I'm afraid he's getting his first cold. All last night he was snotty and snorty. He's still acting just fine, but he doesn't want his bottle and he's snorting like a piglet.

1 Month

2 Months

3 Months

Well, that's it for now! More to come and love always.

Fluffy Mail

2011-11-04T10:38:00.000-07:00

Ben and I got an exciting package in the mail a couple of days ago! Here's our haul!

Young Moms Younite: Breastfeeding v Formula

2011-11-03T06:12:00.000-07:00

My response to the topic.

Happy Thursday!

Ben's Frenectomy

2011-11-02T14:37:00.000-07:00

In Ben's 2 Month update I talked about his tongue tie. He got it clipped and I did a little update vlog on it. Finding it easier to clog right now than blog because it's essentially hands-free!

Love always.

Earthquake

2011-10-31T07:28:00.000-07:00

So, August 23rd 2011 we had a random earthquake here on the east coast. We didn't know what was going. We were at New Mom's group at a conference room in the hospital. The room began to shake and one of the mom's yelled to get under the tables. So, we did. This picture is, of course, a reenactment! It was the weirdest feeling. Turns out the mom who advised everyone had lived in California for a while so she had her earthquake skills down!

Peach Cornbread

2011-10-29T07:56:00.000-07:00

All I have to say is... Yum.

I had this for dinner Thursday night with fish.

I had this for breakfast this morning with eggs.

And I had this for dinner Friday with cauliflower and black bean stew.

And now it is gone.

Kat's Real Food Kitchen - Peach Cornbread

Cookies!

2011-10-28T06:38:00.000-07:00

I've recently been a follower (and I mean that in kind of a religious way, not a Twitter way, although I also follow on Twitter) of Kat's Real Food Kitchen. If Ben is able to continue breastfeeding, it will be this blog, well, it's creator that helped to save it. As I previously mentioned, Ben has a cow's milk protein intolerance so dairy is off limits for me (if I want to continue breastfeeding - which I hope to). Besides giving me great recipes which were safe to eat, it also just showed me easy substitutions I can make in daily life cooking - hello, coconut milk. Yum.

Since I took a 10 day hiatus from breastfeeding during the day (pumping while he took a bottle), my supply dropped. After Ben eats now, he wants to eat again like 40 minutes later, no joke. Holy Moly milk machine momma. That's giving me like a 20 minute window in between feedings to live life. Ok, it wasn't that bad. This only happened a couple of times. But, still..

I decided to make Protein Packed Lactation Cookies. My husband loved them. No, I did not tell him they were lactation cookies.. No matter. I made a few tweaks just to fit my kitchen. I only baked them for 7 minutes because my oven runs a bit hot. I used 1/4 cup of Brewer's Yeast.

Necessary ingredients [Never mind the sucanat. I don't know how she snuck in there].

Finished product

One funny thing about all this drama with Ben's allergy and breastfeeding and such is that although my preference is still to breastfeed, it's made me much more comfortable with formula feeding. There are things about it that I love: C can feed him, Ben is always satisfied after a bottle, and it's easier in some ways in terms of eating at restaurants and such. There's just more pluses for me right now on the side of breastfeeding: cheaper, supposedly healthier for Ben, I love holding his little feet when he's eating. Regardless, I respect both manners of feeding your baby!

Okay, that's it for now!

Day 1: No Dairy

2011-10-19T05:16:00.000-07:00

This is a pretty boring topic for my 100th post! I feel like there should be something celebratory or a great video or something! Well, the ceasing of a screaming baby is celebratory in the most extreme sense of the concept, I suppose.

We've been going to the doctor weekly it seems because something has just seemed "wrong" with Ben. He just cries so much and often you can see he's in pain. Finally, this past weekend, he had some funky looking poo so I made another appointment. I'm like, "Doctor, you have GOT to fix this baby"! So, por fin, she put all the symptoms together and she said it sounds like a classic cow's milk protein allergy. The more I read about this, the more I'm convinced she's right. I only wish I had figured this out sooner.

Basically, it just means I have to quit eating dairy. And soy, to be safe. Apparently those two proteins are very similar. I will do anything to have Ben not be in pain anymore. So, I've whipped out my vegetarian cookbook - because it was a lot of vegan recipes in it - and the grilling cookbook, and I'm going to stick to these books for the next 6 - 8 weeks. That's when the doctor said we can start reintroducing diary and soy again.

I'm also going to hit up Whole Foods with Ben today. They are known to have lots of dairy/soy free products too. The hardest thing for me right now is bread. Whole Foods is supposed to help me out here. And butter! Who knew butter was a dairy product !! :) I'm going to be rocking out some margarine for a couple of weeks.

What did people do 100 years ago? No Whole Foods? No margarine?

Poor, colicky babies.

Just happy to have a solution finally!

Monday Survey: Columbus Day

2011-10-10T07:57:00.000-07:00

Monday Survey

This was a pretty great weekend. For most, it carries on, thanks to Columbus (or not, depending on your views of this "conqueror") but alas, we head back to work today. That's okay though - weather's still beautiful out. My *baby* brother turned 27 yesterday - what?!? - and we went to Hard Times to celebrate. *Not helping the post-partum baby belly but today's a new day* Saturday we attended a beautiful "surprise" wedding and Ben did pretty great there too. Onward.

I steal this "Monday Survey" from Radical Typewriter! Again.

Mood:

As I noted previously, pretty great. I did have kind of a ego-flattening experience at Kmart yesterday though. Is that possible you ask? Well, yes. C and I ducked out to Kmart yesterday to get diapers and wipes while my family was finishing up at Hard Times which is conveniently located next door. Ben stayed with my family so it felt like a mini-date to Kmart with C. Very romantic. I had to buy some disposables because I'm stripping my cloth today. As we check out the cashier asks, "When is you baby due?" Yep, she asked that. Granted, I had on kind of a fitted shirt as opposed to my usual looser looks as I fight baby belly, but I don't have a huge baby belly kids. I tried to play it off like she asked, "how old is your baby?" as to not embarrass her, and told her Ben was 9 weeks now. Oh my gosh. However, besides this incident, it was a great weekend. I even got to see my dear friend, L, author of Radical Typewriter. We took Ben to a local biker bar/restaurant. It was fun as well as delicious.

Band/Musician of the day:

I still suck at this portion of the survey. Let me change it to Author/Book of the day for this week. I'm currently reading Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins. I've rocked though almost the entire Hunger Games series in the past month thanks to Ben's feedings.

Looking forward to:
Having nice, clean diapers by the end of the morning. I think I mentioned previously how I was having some repelling issues with my BumGenius diapers. I attempted to strip them a couple of weeks ago and failed. I'm trying again this morning and feeling much more informed. I'm pretty much following this process shown in this video. Here's a pic of my tub currently.

Random thing that is making me happy:

While I was with L this weekend I ordered Season 3 of Sons of Anarchy. I am anxiously awaiting it's arrival.

Weekly goals:

Walk more with Ben.

Finish baby bonnet.

Weekly goals from last week:

~~Get halfway through baby bonnet.~~
Exercise. This didn't happen.
Love always!

Three Good Things Thursday

2011-10-06T06:42:00.000-07:00

1. I have discovered PeaPod. Our first delivery arrives today between 11a and 1p. This is a true blessing of a concept for many reasons.

a) After the traumatizing time they spent together on Sunday night while I was at book club, my husband now refuses to be alone with our child until he's reached the age of one. I'm allowed to do laundry and such while Ben is "alone" with C, but I have to be in the house or close vicinity. I try to explain that Ben has breakdowns with me as well, but C persists that I have the magical boob which can cure all problems, while he does not. True, but I'm still hoping he feels comfortable alone with Ben before the age of one. Alas, PeaPod solves the problem of me going to the grocery store with Ben. C offers to go but won't use coupons. Sometimes, I'll still take him up on the offer, but usually it's painful to me not to save money. For some reason, I'd rather pay the delivery charge of PeaPod and get to use coupons (I realize these cancel each other out in terms of savings) that not use coupons at all.

b) Ben hates the refrigerated aisles of the grocery store. He'll have to get over this someday, but I'd just rather not attempt to conquer this yet. One thing at a time.

2. I'm really enjoying working on Ben's Baptismal Baby Bonnet. This might be something he hates me for when he's older, but right now he can't refuse me putting beautiful knitted garments upon his fuzzy scalp. I'm not going to make him wear a traditional baptism gown - he can wear something more manly, but the bonnet will be on his noggin. I'm not sure how the pastor will put the holy water on his head with his bonnet. She'll figure it out.

3. Ben is feeling better from his shots today. Yesterday was so pitiful. Again, praise the Lord (literally) for the people smart enough to invent medicines like acetaminophen and such.

This video was taken about a week ago (9/29).

2 Months

2011-10-05T12:18:00.000-07:00

What?

Ben had his 2 month check up appointment today. I can't believe it. In our practice, we see a different doctor every time pretty much, (unless you request) and I don't mind this because they've all been great. We asked the doctor a couple of questions today, one of which was about his tongue. Ben is "tongue-tied" - I can't remember if I've mentioned this - and they usually don't worry about this unless it causes feeding problems. Ben eats just fine, but they noticed it is still quite "tight" so we have to go to the ENT tomorrow to possibly have it clipped. It's not supposed to be as bad as it sounds, but I do feel bad for this child - having his vaccinations one day and tongue-clippin' the next! I know it's for the best though. At least he won't remember.

He did well taking his vaccines but he's not feeling well now. Thank goodness for acetaminophen. At least he's able to get some rest!

He was 10 lbs 7 oz (22%) and 23 inches long (64.5). So, he's growing!

Ben - 1 Month

Ben - 2 Months

Tuesday Tag

2011-10-04T05:46:00.000-07:00

This post has once again been lifted from Radical Typewriter who originally lifted it from Lauren Conrad!

1. Favorite TV show? Currently, Teen Mom. The fact that that is my current favorite show is sad, but true. I cannot lie. I can never stay up late enough to catch it but anxiously await watching it on the DVR. Sometimes I'll sneak down during one of Ben's Tuesday middle of the night feedings to watch it.

2. Song I can’t stop listening to is… Glee's version of Defying Gravity

3. Red or nude lips? Nude. I've yet to master the concept that is lipstick.

4. Facebook or Twitter? Both, but if I had to pick one, Facebook.

5. Gold or silver? Silver.

6. Favorite fashion designer? (or clothing line) I don't have one but I got obsessed with watching stylist Rachel Zoe over vacation.

7. Any recent travels? Outer Banks

8. Makeup you can’t live without? SmashBox Foundation

9. Favorite childhood TV show? Today's Special

10. Straight, curly or wavy hair? I covet curly. But I have straight.

11. What were you doing a year ago from now? Probably something fun with the hubby.

12. If you could live in any era, what would it be? I happy living in the now.

13. Where are you from? NoVa baby.

14. Favorite food? Mashed Potatoes

15. Makeup or fashion? Makeup.

16. Movie you saw most recently? Knocked Up. I've wacthed this the last two days in a row. And laughed hysterically bath times. Is that sad?

17. Nickname? I never really had one.

18. I’m secretly terrified of… Breaking my collar bone. This fear is unfounded, but wouldn't that be terrible?

19. Heels or flats? Flats, though I wish I could pull off heels like Kate Gosselin. Shoot.

20. Favorite blog on LaurenConrad.com so far? I had to do some actual research here because I honestly don't normally read this blog, but I liked the "Celebrate" section best.

Bonnet Progress!

Monday Survey

2011-10-03T07:49:00.000-07:00

I've obviously been having some trouble getting any blogging done whatsoever and I do miss it. Sometimes it's my window to the outside world. Even as I type now with Ben precariously balanced on my lap, I'm not sure whether I'll get to finish the next sentence. But, I do love having him on my lap so much!!

I steal this "Monday Survey" from Radical Typewriter!

Mood:

Pretty great. Though it caused much trauma at home, I went to a new book club meeting last night and it was wonderful. We're reading one of my favorite books, The Red Tent. My husband desperately called me home after an hour and a half, but it was a wonderful hour and a half. And, today Ben is just an angel and I have renewed energy and love for him.

Band/Musician of the day:

I have no good, exciting answer to this. Whenever I put on music in the kitchen it's either Glee or Beethoven's Baby Lullabies for Ben.

Looking forward to:

Starting a new knitting project. I'm going to make Ben this bonnet for his baptism. It's a lofty goal, since he's getting baptized in two weeks, but I'm going to make it happen! I'm especially excited to go buy the yarn today. I have a fluff-buying problem that extends to yarn as well as cloth diapers.

Random thing that is making me happy:

After I took a shower this morning and put on my clean undergarments and such, I put my pajama pants back on. It was wonderful. About an hour later, I decided I wanted to go to the yarn store though so I put on "real pants". But, it was a glorious hour and thought to wear pajama pants all day.

Weekly goals:

Get halfway through baby bonnet.
Exercise.

Love always!

Menu Planning

2011-09-28T16:07:00.000-07:00

So the past few weeks have been pretty crazy. And I mean crazy. Crazy like I have a list of counselors/psychologists to call if I feel like I am getting any crazier. But, I am feeling a ton better! The thing that helped the most, I believe, was a little R&R in Nags Head last week with the fam. It's always nice to have a willing pair of hands to dump my little monster into!

On Sunday, the task of going to the grocery store brought me to tears. Make list, strap Ben in, try and get through the refrigerated aisles without a break down, etc. Just as I was about to call PeaPod, a blessed angel in the form of our dear friend, R. offered to watch Ben with my husband while I went to the store. While I went to the store ALONE. C. is nervous about being by himself with the baby for now, although he would be fine. So, a little encouragement from R. was just what he needed.

The prospect of going to the store ALONE was almost too much for me too handle. I immediately seized the opportunity and made a quick list of meals to shop for throughout the week. First I thought about what we already had on hand and/or needed to use. Steak, asparagus, chili packets. Monday: Grilled Steak with Potatoes and Asparagus, Tuesday: Grilled Chicken with Potato Casserole and Green Beans, Wednesday: Vegetarian Chili, Thursday: Chicken A La King, Friday: I Can't remember and left the list in the kitchen. Then I quick made a list of ingredients and ran. I grabbed the grilled recipes out of a grilling cookbook we got for our wedding. The chili is from a packet given to us in a set for our wedding. Chicken a la King is a slow cooker dish. So far, so good.

Ben did just fine in my absence and C. has some new found confidence and will be watching him alone on Sunday as I go to book group. I need to get pumpin'. They will be fabulous.

In other exciting news, here is a quick video of some of Ben's new smiles. My dad nearly hydroplaned during the filming of this video which is why you may hear some tenseness in the background. Everyone was fine.

5 weeks

2011-09-13T07:15:00.000-07:00

What I Want Wednesday

2011-08-31T10:37:00.000-07:00

I've mentioned in the past that I "struggle", but not really, with vanity. The same goes for materialism. So, today, I'm hosting "What I Want Wednesday". I'm losing track of the days of the week so along with "Three Good Things Thursday" at least I'll know what day of the week it is on two out of the seven.

Today's post could be sponsored by Prince Lionheart if they wanted to sponsor RRandR but that's okay because I'm going to promote them for free. I currently have my sights set on the Prince Lionheart Warmies Wipes Warmer. I used to think these spoiled baby's bottoms but then I changed my son's diaper. And he screamed. I check always to make sure there's no diaper rash or anything, but I really think he just doesn't care for the shock of the cool wipe. He has a high maintenance heiny. :) My mom got me a wipe warmer and I have it all set up, I just need to plug it in. This sounds simple, but the outlet is behind a dresser that I can't move by myself. I need to keep nagging C about this...

And more for myself, I want a haircut! Now, to find the time to get out and make that happen...

Why I've Been a Bad Blogger

2011-08-30T07:16:00.000-07:00

Please excuse my poor videographer-ness. I am an amateur to say the least.

Ben's Birth Story

2011-08-20T15:58:00.000-07:00

Disclaimer: This is a birth story. There may be some TMI. Just a warning.

Ben was "overdue". I was ready to not be pregnant anymore in the midsummer's heat. While I didn't want to rush him out (I know due dates are not an exact science), I wasn't against natural methods of helping him along. I tried lemon cupcakes (delicious, but didn't bring baby), pineapple, manicotti with lots of garlic from a local Italian restaurant rumored to "cure" overdue pregnancies, yoga, squats and walking. Lots of walking.

A friend suggested eating spicy food along with a 3 mile walk to ensure the onset of labor. I love me some tobasco and my baby loves walking (he always would be calm during walks) so I began to implement the plan on August 4th.

In the morning, a friend and her baby (and her BOB) walked around the neighborhood with me. We knocked out at least a mile. For lunch, I had come leftover gnocchi w/ marinara and LOTS of red pepper flakes. Around 2:30, I began the last two miles of walking to complete the plan, on the treadmill this time, due to the heat. I had True Blood in the DVD player to keep me entertained.

At 3:30, (I never claimed to be a fast walker, merely one with endurance) I felt a small leak. I called the doctor. She said to call back if I feel it continue.

I continued with my day as usual. My husband and I made a trip to Whole Foods (hello, stork parking) and made kabobs. We watched some TV and headed to bed at 9:30. I noticed more leaking and when I got into bed, I noticed it on my towel too. (Have I mentioned that my husband made me sleep on a towel since ~36 weeks in case my water broke on our nice mattress? Like a potty-training puppy.)

So, I call the doc. She recommends coming in, just in case. Even though this is what I wanted, I am still in disbelief and didn't grab all my things I had prepared.

After being [painfully] examined in triage, it was determined that my water did, in fact, break. I was admitted and we got all set up in my room. I was unsure what to think about my first nurse, Pam. She was complaining about how busy they were and seemed like she just wanted to go home. This did not make me feel great as a new patient about to give birth. Later, however, I noticed she was wearing black crackle polish over purple. Yes. And did I mention she had to be at least 50+ years old? We bonded. She was actually really good at getting me through contractions too once they kicked in.

I was only ~1 centimeter and since my water had broken hours ago, we had to get things moving. Enter pitocin, a very scary drug to me. It sure did it's thing. Within an hour, I was having regular and VERY noticeable contractions. I became a different person. I could not be soothed. I just huddled up to me bed rail and held my massage to my forehead. I didn't want to speak to anyone nor be touched. Though I felt wussy, I asked for the epidural. Enter: relief. Well, partial relief. It only worked on my left side. But that was still a major improvement. Within two or three more hours, I started feeling pressure. The nurse checked me and it was go time. We did some practice pushes and after about 15 minutes she called the doctor in. Thirty minutes later, Ben was born! He screamed bloody murder right away. It was a very surreal feeling to have a little human on my tummy that used to be IN my tummy. I knew there was a baby in there, but couldn't believe it when I actually saw him. He was pretty perfect.

We've been through a few hurdles since then. We had to go back into the hospital for jaundice. But, really, I'm just so thankful for our little man.

Baby's Name: Benjamin
Date of Birth: Aug 5th
Original Due Date: 7/27/11
Weeks Pregnant: 41 weeks 2 days
Weight: 8 lbs. 6 oz.
Height: 21 inches

Knitting : Breastfeeding

2011-08-17T05:11:00.000-07:00

Did you like the analogies portion of the SATs? This is dating myself, I know, because I don't believe they even have this portion of the SAT anymore. I'm pretty sure they nixed it a few years ago. Anyway, it's becoming more and more clear to me the similarities between knitting and breastfeeding. It's true.

Knitting : Breastfeeding as Persistence : Perseverance

This isn't the best use of analogy. We teach analogies in 6th grade language arts and I would necessarily use this one to teach. But, it's going to get my point across.

In the hospital, a lactation consultant (LC) came around to breastfeeding moms to help out. Thank God. She said there are 4 P's to remember when breastfeeding: Patience, Practice, Persistence and Position.

Patience is a virtue. I'm not going to lie, I don't always have it. I've shed many a frustrated tear over Ben's latch or lack thereof. All is well now, but this was a tough P for me.

Practice is kind of a given. This is the easiest P for me. You have to feed your child. I'm cheap. That means he has to take the boob. Practice is just going to come with the territory. (Let me make a disclaimer that I have nothing against formula and I would give it to Ben no problem if medically necessary. We thought we might have to with his jaundice but it all worked out. I just know that breastmilk has antibodies and immunoglobins and all those goodies so I want Ben to have that. And, it's free.)

Persistence is an important one. MANY times I've thought how much easier it would be to switch to formula. The formula companies send you free samples so you're ready to go when you get home from the hospital and you're pulling your hair out because your starving child is so starving that they're irritable and won't latch on. I mean, just hypothetically speaking. But, my husband has helped me to stick it out. He's admitted he's wanted to cry along with us, but it's always worked out.

Position is one of the main things the LC helped us with. We mainly use cross cradle (for the right boob) and football hold (for the left). I don't know why Ben likes different positions for different boobs but he just does. Even though everything is working out now, I still might go meet with the LC about positions that are easier on your wrists. Mine are getting really sore!

Some tricks I've picked up in the last 11 days that have helped.

- If it's okay with you and your partner, use your mother f'n pump. It is a life saver. Even though I tried to feed every 2 - 3 hours as they suggest, Ben still got ravenously hungry sometimes. He'd be screaming so loud and so irritable he couldn't latch on. It I had even the smallest amount pumped, I could give it to him as an appetizer and then he'd latch on no problem.

- In the same vein, if he won't latch and I don't have an appetizer bottle, I can pump a little just to "get the juices flowing" for lack of a better phrase. Apparently, this also brings out oils that babies like.

- Even within the same hospital, nurses and LCs are going to give you different information and advice. Sometimes conflicting information and advice. Take in everything (because truly they're infinitely helpful, especially the LCs) and humor them while they're teaching you, but do what works for you and your baby.

- Suck School: Have the baby suck on your finger or the paci for a few seconds if he's having trouble latching. Then, offer him the boob. This did wonders for my guy.

I've gone off on a tangent but knitting requires the 4 Ps too. You have to have patience. Not only does it take time to complete a project, you eff up sometimes and have to redo rows pf hard work. Practice makes perfect is a given. Persistance is important because you will make mistakes, you just have to try, try again. And just like with BFing, you're gonna get sore writsts/shoulders/forearsm if you're not positioned correctly.

Tomorrow I'm going to a BF group to ask for some ideas about how to kick these sore wrists. My little baby has a heavy head to support!

2011-08-14T06:06:00.000-07:00

Hi long-lost blogging friends.

I have been MIA because the day after I wrote my past post, Ben decided to make his debut! I thought I would have all this down time on my hands once he arrived while he was sleeping, but that's just not the case. I, myself, have been suffering from some pretty severe sleep deprivation but it's getting much better, mainly thanks to the help of my mom. I just thought I share two quick examples of events caused by my sleep deprivation.

1) I took a shower this morning. This is not the event but it was exciting nonetheless. Ben was in his bouncy seat on the bathroom floor sleeping. After my shower, I brushed my hair and put a little pea-sized dollop of glossing creme on my hand to make my locks more luscious. Unfortunately, my brain wasn't turned on and I massaged the glossing creme into my face. It was several minutes after I applied the rest of my make up that I realized this. Hmmm, hope my skin doesn't turn green or anything.

2) Breastfeeding is not as easy as I thought. It consumes much of my time and I've shed many a tear over Ben getting a good latch etc. That being said, I still would not trade it for the world. So, I woke up this morning, nursing tank undone, shirt off in my arms like I was holding Ben, and nursing pillow over my lap. No baby. At first I freaked out. Did he fall off the bed? Is he in the sheets? No baby anywhere. I rush up and find him safe and sound in his Snuggle Nest in my mom's room. He hadn't been with me since his last feeding. I wasn't sleep walking my friends. I was sleep nursing. Who knew. Oh my gosh.

Birth story and more to come. I love Ben. Love to all!

Zeljko Ivanek

2011-08-03T10:44:00.000-07:00

Someone I've been "into" recently is Zeljko Ivanek. Not in a romantic way, but he's popped up into two , no, make that three of my current favorite shows. I thoroughly enjoy him if, for no othe reason, than that he's from Slovenia but can do a killer Southern accent. THAT, my friends, is some talent. But, seriously, he's on Damages, True Blood AND Heroes. What a trifecta. Just seriously enjoying me some Zelijko.

FYI, I did complete 30 BBM Day 2, but I'm not posting it because there was a lot of repetition in my answers from Day 1. As soon as some newer material comes up, I'll post it again.

Gotta run now to my last doctor's appointment. This will be my last appointment before I'm induced next week. Let's just keep our fingers crossed that Ben comes before that. I don't really want to be induced. And, I just have to say, my doctor better appreciate me. I do more prep for her than I do at any other time of the week. I shower, shave my legs AND do my makeup. Today, I even blowdried my hair. What?!?! Unheard of. But, I appreciate them too.

Love always.

#30BBM Day 1

2011-08-02T16:43:00.000-07:00

I read the "assignment" last night. This girl is good. She's posting the daily challenges on Singapore time. "Since Singapore is in a faster time zone than most countries, 6am SG time means most of us will get the task first thing in the morning". Very neat. So, anyway, I've been able to think about the questions for a little while now. I'm not gonna lie, I considered quitting the challenge before I even started. Some of the questions are not comfortable to answer. But, one thing I have learned is if you don't confront [unpleasant] things they won't change. Here goes... Here go-oooes... {Any Rent-head readers? Cricket, cricket. Nevermind.}

1. If you were to rate yourself on a scale of 1-10 (in terms of your personality), how much would you rate yourself?

Again, I'm not gonna lie, my first initial response to this question was, "Mmmm, an 8 or a 9". We know I "struggle" at times with vanity. I'm not using "struggle" in the true sense of the word. I find vanity somewhat amusing for some reason or another. But, then I continued to read the rest of the question. [...So if you put yourself as 1/10, that means you see huge potential to be better – which makes it easy to be a better you. On the other hand, those who rate themselves as 9/10 or 10/10 often don’t grow much – because they already think they’re good enough. Which is fine by itself, but I believe most of us who joined the challenge do so because we recognize growth is transcendent, and there can never be an end point to how good we can be.] Shoot! I want to grow! So, I decided to come back to this question. And, I'm glad I did. To be continued...

2. Why did you give yourself the score in Q1?

Well, I went with my original "8 or 9" because, in terms of personality and the question indicated, I feel like I get along well with other people for the most part. A large part of my current job is answering the phone and working with customers, suppliers and contractors. I'm pretty confident with how I deal with all these calls. I think highly of the company I'm working for [perhaps you hear the vanity bell ringing again, as this is my husband's company] but customers are not always pleasant, especially if we can't schedule their work as quickly as they'd like, and I feel as though I can still speak well with them. So, those were some initial thoughts that went into my initial (although perhaps inflated) score. Also, to be continued...

3. Now, write down 5-7 traits about yourself you want to work on.

Ooohh, this is where I started to think about quitting. I don't want to think about any undesirable traits I possess. It was easier when we were talking about how "personable" I am. haha. But, I trudged onward. The first ones came easily to me.

a) I can be judgmental and I don't care for this. Sometimes I write it off as merely part of being human. That doesn't mean I should work on it. Most recently I caught myself judging parents who cross busy streets with their children while not using crosswalks. There's a mega busy highway I use frequently (Richmond Hwy) and I've seen adults running across with infants. "What are they thinking?", I'm thinking. After further judgment, and thinking about how to solve this, handout pamphlets about jaywalking at local elementary schools? (haha), I realize there aren't any convenient crosswalks. Not that I want more traffic lights, but how can I judge people for finding some way to cross the highway (probably to get to the grocery store) when they may not have a car or other means of getting there. Additionally, at least they're not leaving their young kids at home alone, which I heard of happening often at my school. I used to judge a lot too when I was in New Mexico working with homeless families. I still struggle (in the true sense of the word) with some aspects of that, but some education/professional development I gained much empathy/compassion. That was a long explanation. Sorry. Okay, not really. You don't have to read it all if you don't want to.

b) Laziness/Procrastination. You read that right. I like to blame pregnancy for this (and I know I need to rest more now) but I can be extreme. Also, I remember previous summers, when I was very much not pregnant when I would watch much too much Jon & Kate Plus 8. That's right.

Other traits were harder for me to face and think about.

c) Lack of confidence. I know this seems ironic considering my vanity trait. But, I do hate how I enter some tasks with a lack of confidence. I know that I'm capable of them, but my anxiety/nerves, whatever enter in and hinder the task. Shoot!

d) Emotionally stingy for lack of a better way to put it. I've gotten much better with this but could still improve for sure. TPEB describes this as, always looking for positive affirmations and emotional displays from others, rather than doing that myself. Yeah, pretty much.

e) Be more loving. Genuinely. This one probably shouldn't count but this is always, like, my life mission. So, whatever, I'm putting it in. Doing this would fix all my other improvable traits anyway.

1. Continued. If you were to rate yourself on a scale of 1-10 (in terms of your personality), how much would you rate yourself?

So, after facing these improvable traits, I rescore myself at a 6. That's less inflated, and I'm happier with that and have more room to improve.

Day 1 Reflection

Is there anything you learned today? (Can be related to #30BBM Day 1 or unrelated)

Yes. Obviously, it was beneficial to list some improvable traits.

Unrelated, I learned some new knitting techniques. That's right.

August Activities

2011-08-01T03:22:00.000-07:00

I can't believe August is here! It is so strange to see all the school supplies out at Wal-Mart (and everywhere). It is just a surreal feeling because for the first time in 25 years, I'm not going back to school in any sense of the word. I've either been going back to school in the traditional sense, or teaching in some respect or another for the past 25 years. It's not a bad or a good feeling, just a change.

I have some things I'm looking forward to for the month of August. Dying to know? Here you go.

1. Have baby.

This was obviously a July activity that has been bumped to August and not by my choice. Hoping this will happen sooner than later. It's a good lesson in patience and in that we can't control everything! In some ways baby preparation has felt like wedding preparation. There's so much to get ready for and research and I enjoyed undertaking several DIY projects for the big event. However, I knew when the wedding would come and I had control [pretty much] over how the whole day went. I don't possess so much conrol over the baby coming. I can plan and prepare as much as I want, but some things we just have to leave up to our bodies/Higher Power (Whatever/Whomever that may be for you).

2. Westknits Mystery Shawl KAL 2011: Earth & Sky

I'm mega excited for this knitting project. Here is a write up from Fibre Space. (FYI: KAL=Knit-a-long)

Lately, all kinds of striped and multicolored shawl patterns have been popping up on Ravelry. It’s no wonder, since this is a great way to experiment with color without getting into more complicated knitting techniques. One designer known for his colorful shawls, Stephen West, is hosting the Westknits Mystery Shawl Knitalong: Earth & Sky. His innovative designs are fun to knit, so I immediately had to be a part of this. Intrigued?

Vibrant colors from NFC

The way this mystery KAL works is you receive weekly clues from the designer that guide you to the next part of the pattern (which you get a nice discount on through the end of August). You will be part of 1000+ Ravelers participating, so there is plenty of support along the way. To get started, you need three different colors in a fingering or sport weight yarn. Picking out colors can sometimes be the hard part of the project, but Mr. West dedicated the first pattern installment to color choices. Many of the yarns he likes for this pattern are available at the shop, and we are flush with new colors in these fabulous picks. You can go for a subtle, tonal effect with The Fibre Company Road to China Light, a dreamy and unbelievably soft yarn in an iridescent palette. For the more daring color lovers, see what you can create with Neighborhood Fiber Co. Studio Sock. With glowing hues like Del Ray and Georgetown, you are certain to have a shawl that stands out! Come by this weekend and have your fibre space™ Yarnistas help you put together color combinations!

I believe this guy, Steven West, would be fun to meet in person too. I mean, hello, check out this shawl porn. It reminds me (lovingly) of when the guys on my college rowing team were considering posing "naked" behind a rowing shell. They were going to use the picture to get sponsorship. Thank goodness we decided on doing something else. :)

The yarn I'll be using

I didn't really care for any of the suggested yarns so I got these. The yarn store said it should work out just fine.

3. Be a Better Me in 30 Days

This is again respectfully, shamelessly and appreciately stolen from MacMoto's World. Head on over to check out what it's all about. The heading is also linked to the original blog. Seems like a fun project. Once baby comes, I'll do my best to keep up, but I'm not going to beat myself up over anything! Seems like that would defeat the purpose.

I've already started thinking about my "homework" for today so I'll keep you updated! It's making think about things I'd rather not ponder! But, in a good way.

Okay, I'm out. Happy August and love always.

Family & Friends Baby Shower!

2011-07-31T06:26:00.000-07:00

I never got to post about this but, better late than never! I didn't have any pictures and was having trouble copying the ones my sis had on Facebook. Technical difficulties now solved.

In late June, some dear friends and family had a baby shower for me and Ben. It was wonderful.

We had to snap a quick high school pic.

Family

My uncle hid upstairs most of the time but we snuck him up some food and made him come down towards the end!

My sis and me.

She made some fabulous tie-dye onesies and other paraphenalia Ben will love.

Ben got many wonderful gifts

I keep saying that Ben is lucky I have such loving and generous friends and family. I wish I had a pic readily available of his "library" too. He is going to be a literate boy. My friends know good books.

Now he just needs to come out so we can put everything to good use!! Love always.

Traditional Nesting

2011-07-29T03:39:00.000-07:00

I just don't think it's in me.

I did wake up Tuesday morning with the urge to clean the house. I even called Rosie, the cleaning lady and cancelled her visit. (I may come to regret this). Well, I've been at it for, oh, 30 minutes now and all I want to do is knit. I haven't even done any real "cleaning" yet, merely decluttering. Perhaps just as I did not get the traditional craving pregnancy gene [I want Life cereal, not pickles and ice cream], I did not the the traditional nesting gene [I want to knit versus mop all the floors].

I believe I mentioned that I took a knitting class in April where we made Elizabeth Zimmerman's February Baby Sweater. This sent me on an Elizabeth Zimmerman kick. There's not a biography about her life per se, but she has several books out (well, compilations of her newsletters and such) where she lets you in on various aspects of her life. At one point she writes about how she feels like a house cluttered with yarn is much preferable to one that is spic 'n' span. I have to say I'm in agreement with her.

OCPottery

I completed my piece for Biruta's blanket, including finishing and blocking! The deadline for this piece is August 14th, so I knew I had to get it done. Now, I just hope my momma can work on hers. She has the added challenge of felines trying to "help" her. Did you know they make holders especially to protect yarn from issues such as this? Genius. The yarn ball goes in the bowl and the string comes out the hole so the feline can't bat the ball around and such. I'm sure they could find ways around it, but I still love the idea.

Three Good Things Thursday

2011-07-28T12:52:00.000-07:00

July 28th, 2011 Edition

1. I had a doctor's appointment yesterday. The past few weeks there has been no new information about the baby. They just kept saying things like, "he's pretty happy in there!", "No change!", "Don't hold your breath!" Etc. Finally, yesterday there was some "change". [I'm keeping this PG-ish in case I have any squeamish readers]. So, that was promising. And, in case nothing else happens they scheduled my induction for August 10th. Which, seems so far away, of course, so hopefully something will happen before then. But, I think it will because this morning I had another sign. I won't say but I will give a hint that it rhymes with "shuddy blow" and "pluke-us mug". Woah, those rhymes almost sound worse that the actual names. Anyway, I'm counting on the New Moon this Saturday to help me along.

2. My new Netflix just came in the mail. I'm currently into True Blood: Season 3, and I'm hoping to get through the season before my subscription reverts to streaming only. When they announced that rate hike, I dropped my subscription to the streaming only which I believe will be fine. I just couldn't believe the increase. I'm going to pop it in, hop on the treadmill and walk this baby out.

3. I made the dough for Rosemary Shortbread Cookies today. These are what I plan to bring to the nurses as a thank you gesture. I have a good stash of rosemary in the garden so I love to use it in these delicious cookies. If baby doesn't come for a while, that's okay, it will be a good excuse to eat some cookies myself. haha.

Okay, enough bantering, off to the treadmill. Love always.

Quick Pregnancy Update

2011-07-26T03:22:00.000-07:00

Good morning!

I've been hoping to post a vlog about my onesie to tshirt adventure (which I'm sure you've just been dying in anticipation for) but I'm waiting just a bit because we have a new computer arriving today. I don't have any great software on my current computers since I've turned in my work laptop. I'm hoping the new computer will have, or we can install, something better for video editing. Until then...

How far along? Pic taken at 38 weeks I believe, now 39

Total weight gain/loss: 40lbs total Wish I was exaggerating but no such luck. In my defense, the doctor says we're still fine and I've been doing yoga/walking! Ben's just a big boy.

Maternity clothes? Currently rocking out my Target yoga pants and tshirt

Stretch marks? Nope. I've been lucky in this regard. Thanks genes.

Sleep: I woke up this morning around 3:30 to some light, irregular contractions that have since ceased. I think they're just practice, trying not to get any hopes up!

Best moment this week: This is not Ben related, but I had a good time this weekend at the pool with friends and their cute babies.

Movement: For sure. I wish I could catch a pic of when he's sticking his bum up in the air, er, sticking his bum up in the amniotic fluid. My tummy looks completely contorted. Although I am excited to have my body back, I will miss the science experiment going on inside of me!

Food cravings: Edward's Lemon Merengue Pie of all things. Fortunately they come in single's packs. I'd be in trouble if I had access to a whole one.

Gender: Boy

Labor Signs: Light contractions that have disappeared

Belly Button in or out? It's basically just a smooshed out pancake now.

What I miss: Sleeping without worrying that I'm going to crush Ben. Thank goodness for my Snoogle. How did pregnant women ever get ANY sleep without these beautiful inventions?

What I am looking forward to: Many things - I've tried to make one exciting event each day to get myself through these last few days- I'll make a list at the end (Footnote 1)

Weekly Wisdom: I trust in the wisdom of my body - from my yoga instructor, Bridgette

Milestones: Practice contractions

1. So I'm trying to do exciting things daily to pass the time until this baby comes. Today: I'm having dinner with my family at my mom's house. For dessert I'm bringing cupcakes from Georgetown Cupcake, home of TLC's DC Cupcake. This is exciting for a dual purpose. I've never been to this store - I passed by it on the way to pole dancing class (that will be another entry in itself) and there's always a line out the door and wrapped up the street. I called ahead so I'll just be able to go right in. Secondly, I'm trying to emulate the effects of the famous lemon cupckes in Charlottesville that allegedly induce labor. These were the closest I could find in my area.

Tomorrow: I have a doc appt. Hopefully they'll tell me some exciting news. Before that I hope to get a pedicure so I don't offend the doctor when I have to put my gnarly heels in her face. Is that TMI? Anyway, I'm getting a pedicure for her.

Other days: I hope to go to Reading Van, see friends, walk with friends, get haircut, etc - I'll find something exciting to do daily. I also have some unexciting taxes I must get done as well. Here's hopin'!

Three Unforturante Things Friday

2011-07-23T03:31:00.000-07:00

Okay, so this is coming in stark contrast to my most recent post, Three Good Things Thursday. But, hey, we can't always be positive right?

I'm saying this in jest. I still hope to do Three Good Things Thursdays, I just had to write about a quick FAIL, and that inspired two other unfortunate things to be written about. Since this happened though, I've had a SUCCESS, which will be a later blog. Onward...

Onesies about to be mutilated into shirts [hopefully]

1) I had mentioned I was becoming an expert at my sewing machine. Let me take that all back. I attempted turning one of Ben's onesies into a shirt this morning. It was basically a fail. I'm still going to keep it but he won't be doing any photo shoots or anything with this frock on.

I'm very interested in converting some of his onesies into shirts so I can show off his diapers. How vain. But, I can't help it. It also just seems like it will make diaper changing so much easier period. All those snaps and such. Maybe onesies were just invented to a) make tucking into pants easier and b) to cover up unsightly diapers. I could be completely wrong, but I'm just thinking. I'll still have plenty of onesies if I am wrong. I have been so thankful to receive so many clothes for him!

Removing the snap portion

I realize there are probably more appropriate ways to find a stright line and cut, but I used a good ol' pencil and straight edge. Pencil will come out in the wash.

Using one of the stretch stitch functions

Finished product

FAIL

So, after my fail, I went to the seamstress with my head hung. I assumed and had heard they can do it very economically. This did not turn out the be the case. She quoted $12/onesie and then when I said "I'll think about it" she came down to $9. I love her, but no way lady. I must mention that I got these onesies from a dear friend at church who has a son who just grew out of them. They are in great condition. But, I'm not going to pay more than $5 to hem a used onesie. So it's back to the sewing machine for me. Here's to hopin'!

2) My grandma is losing her hearing. We tried to talk on the phone yesterday but the conversation only lasted about 4 minutes because she just couldn't understand me. We tried talking slowly, slowly and loudly, medium, etc but just nothing was working. She's been through every hearing aid on the block. She says it feels "socially isolating" and I can only imagine. I don't know how to fix anything but I'm going to write her a letter and include pictures of what's going on right now. She can still see and think just fine. She's 93 so she's thankful for the physical and mental health that she does have. But, I know it's just frustrating for her.

3) We ran out of cereal this morning. 'Nough said.

Three Good Things Thursday

2011-07-22T04:30:00.000-07:00

Okay, so it's Friday. But, this morning as I was perusing some of the blogs I follow, I was inspired by this one. I enjoy this blog for many reasons but some of them are: a) She posts fun pics of things in her garden, b) she talks about yummy food and c) she's expecting a baby around the same time as me so I like her baby posts.

Anyway, you can read more about the "philosophy" behind Three Good Things in her post but the basic gist is: Positive psychology pioneer Martin Seligman, Ph.D., in his latest book, "Flourish," suggests the following exercise: Tonight, write down three things that went well today, be they big (you got a raise) or small (your kid said "I love you" unprompted). Focusing on negative events "sets us up for anxiety and depression. One way to keep this from happening is to get better at thinking about and savoring what went well," Seligman writes. From Whole Living

I'm not feeling any "anxiety or depression" at all right now but it still sounds like a fun/positive thing to do every now and then. Especially now, when I'm having panic attacks [not real ones] that I'm going to be pregnant FOREVER.

When I came back from New Mexico in 2006 and was starting my teaching career, I DID have much anxiety and maybe some depression too. I think I was experiencing a combination of readjusting to living back in fast-paced northern Virginia from more laid-back Las Cruces and adjusting to working a full-time, demanding job that I was very new at. Anyway, at the end of the day, I would often make myself think of something positive that happened, or if I couldn't think of anything, something that I was thankful for. And, I always had something to be thankful for: a) actually having a job, b) friends and family and c) I loved where I was living that year {Del Ray}. This helped me to keep moving on. So, this Three Good Things mambo jambo reminds me of that.

Without further ado...

Three Good Things from Thursday {yesterday}

Crafty-related theme

1) The pillow for Ben's crib is finally IN his crib. Can't remember if I've mentioned it, but Ben's nursery has a light bulb theme. This may sound odd or at least corny as C in an electrician, but I just loved a drawing we found of C's that he made in first grade of all these light bulbs/wires etc so I wanted to base the room around it.

I found the pillow cover on Etsy from this shop, RVaPillowWorks. It was perfect and I also love that the shop is based out of Richmond. The pillow cover came quickly. What took a while was getting myself to Hancock Fabrics to buy the actual pillow. Yesterday, this finally happened, and now the nursery is nearly complete. Just waiting on one more picture to arrive for the wall.

2) My sister got me some yoga pants from Target for Mother's Day and they have become my FAVORITE pants. Due to frequent use, and possibly quality, they have developed several large holes around the waistline where the maternity band and pants come together. I could really care less as long as they're staying on me, but C often thought it was a fun game to poke me through the holes, and this I did not like. I wanted to sew up the holes or have someone sew them up. I have a sewing machine but the issue was that the thread in the machine is white, and the pants are black. Okay, the real issue is I did not know how to change the thread in the machine.

I've been trying to tighten up financially so I decided I did not want to take my Target brand yoga pants to the seamstress for a hole to be fixed. So, I did something drastic... I read the manual that came with my sewing machine.

Come to find out, changing the thread is not rocket science after all. It took me less than 45 minutes to learn how to change the thread, actually change the thread and sew up the pants. Next time I'm sure it will go even more quickly. Yes.

3) I made progress on my piece for Biruta's Blanket. I love this colorway of yarn. I'm sure because it reminds me of Tennessee. It's Blue Sky Alpacas Poppy. Normally I wouldn't choose it for someone unless they also have a Tennessee Vols affliction, but this blanket is suppossed to end up "funky" so I believe it will be perfect. You can read more about Biruta's story here on her Caringbridge site.

Raspberry Leaf Tea

2011-07-18T08:40:00.000-07:00

I've been doing a couple things to let my uterus know that it's okay if she wants to get things moving along now. I'm not doing anything drastic because I'm not overdue yet, but the doctor says Ben is a good size and it would be okay if he came now. So, I'm merely trying not to hinder that process.

One thing I've been imbibing in is Raspberry Leaf tea. I trekked over to Old Town Tea and Spice and picked up an ounce. I do love this shop. They have bagged tea, loose tea and all other sorts of tea and spice related paraphernalia. This particular loose tea was high up on the top (possibly dusty) shelf in a glass container. The woman behind the counter measured out an ounce and put it on the scale. Since this shop is a) in Old Town and b) on S. Union by the river I was expecting to pay more than you would in Giant or your usual grocery store. Needless to say, I was a tad shocked when the total came to a whopping $1. That's right. And then with tax, $1.05. A steal.

The tea does resemble another natural herb one may run upon from time to time though. As the woman was ringing me up, she commented "This certainly looks like an ounce of something else. But, the price would be higher if I was ringing you up for that". So, she was comical. Regardless, I had the urge to listen to Bob Marley or Sublime on the way home.

In conclusion, here's a quick run down on what this tea is supposed to do. It's pretty wives tale-y, but I talked to my doctor who said at this point, things like this won't hurt!

From http://konzababy.tripod.com/RRL.htm

Red Raspberry Leaf in Pregnancy

For thousands of years midwives of old and Chinese herbalists have used herbs with very good results. Most of our allopathic medicines have come from herbs. A safe, commonly used herbal tonic for pregnancy is red raspberry leaf tea.
Brewed as a tea or as an infusion, red raspberry leaf is one of the safest and commonly used tonic herbs for women wanting to get pregnant or for women who are already pregnant. Red Raspberry Leaf (Rubus idaeus) tones the uterus, improves contractions and decreases constipation.

When to use There are two basic stances on the subject. There is agreement among many clinicians that in the 3rd trimester frequent (2- 3 cups per day of tea or 1 - 2 cups per day of infusion) is beneficial to the uterine and pelvic muscles. Red Raspberry Leaf contains many minerals and vitamins, including vitamin C and calcium. It also contains an alkaloid called fragrine, which lends tone to the uterus.
The more radical stance is that drinking one cup of tea per day in the 1st trimester and 2 cups in the 2nd trimester and switching to the infusion in the 3rd trimester ensures a strong uterus, is good for you nutritionally and prevents miscarriage. Some say it is advised to not use it in the first trimester, particularly if you have a history of miscarriage.
The more conservative stance is that red raspberry leaf can cause minor spotting in the beginning of a pregnancy, and some U.K. midwives claim an increase in miscarriage rates. Contact your midwife, herbalist or physician for more information. If you're thinking about using it, to be safe, just wait until you're 36 weeks along.

What does Red Raspberry Leaf Do? Red Raspberry leaf does not start labor or promote contractions.It is NOT an emmenagogue or oxytocic herb. What it does is help strengthen the pelvic and uterine muscles so that once labor does start the muscles will be more efficient.

Tea recipe To make a tea, pour 1 cup boiling water over 2 teaspoons of herb and steep for ten minutes. Strain. During the first two trimesters, drink 1 cup per day. During the final trimester, drink 2-3 cups per day.

Pregnancy Brain

2011-07-11T13:26:00.000-07:00

I've also heard this referred to as "placenta brain". Gross.

Anyway, my coworker and running friend, C. P., told us about having this when she was pregnant. I believed her and everything and she's not someone to exaggerate, but I didn't fully understand.

Now I do. Let me give you two examples that occurred in the last 75 minutes.

1) I planned a pretty extensive grocery shopping trip. Whole Foods is allowing you to match up coupons this week so I had my stack and list all ready. It took me a little while to prepare. I leave the house, lock the door, take off and get all the way down my street to the intersection and realize I left all the coupons and list at home. F it. I'll go tomorrow. I just went ahead to Giant (much closer) and got the items I needed STAT. Ie toothpaste, yogurt, wine. Okay, the wine wasn't for me. But, we were dangerously low.

2) At Giant, I'm checking out. I'm at the cashier since the self checkouts are annoying when you're buying alcohol. I get ready to pay and reach into my purse to pull out my credit card. My VISA is gone! I could use the company card, but that would be fishy if the IRS saw a purchase for toothpaste, yogurt, and wine on an electrical company's account come tax time (I'm sure they don't check that thoroughly, but you know). So, I just go to write a check instead which will be fine. As I go to open my checkbook, I realize my VISA card is in MY LEFT HAND! Oh. my. god. I had already pulled it out.

I'm telling you. This better clear up before Ben comes or things could get dangerous. I just have to hope that my brain is using all it's remaining space to think about important things like car seats and Snuggle Nests and other safety related baby things. Because it's certainly not working well on other fronts. I'm glad schools out for summer!

In other more delicious news, check this out. L. came over yesterday and it was a grand time as always. We had brunch at Delia's. Yum. I got scrumptious banana pancakes and L. got some mouth-watering-looking eggs Benedict. Fabulous.

Love always.

Jill Bolte Taylor

2011-07-05T05:02:00.000-07:00

If you have 18 minutes to spare, the video link you can find here is worth watching. It could be the biology minor in me geeking out, but it was very interesting. It gets a bit new-agey around minute 15, but still neat.

Jill Bolte Taylor's stroke of insight | Video on TED.com

One of my fave yoga instructors told us about this woman. Bolte Taylor talks about this in the clip, but basically she's a brain scientist and has a stroke one morning. With her knowledge of the brain, she kind of follows what's happening to her and is able to analyze it (to the extent that you can analyze during a stroke). Very, very interesting. She also has a book out that I assume goes into this in more detail.

Drunk Tomatoes

2011-07-04T06:12:00.000-07:00

First of all, happy 4th of July! No major plans here for this morning except yoga. Maybe checking out a car.

Today I share with you a lovely picture of myself pouring pumpkin beer onto our tomatoes. See all the delicious, bubbly head on the ground? I LOVE pumpkin beer. This stems from my love of peach wheat ale. However, I had just bought my lovely 6-pack of pumpkin beer last year and then promptly discovered I was pregnant. No pumpkin beer for me. So, the PB (pumpkin beer, not peanut butter) has been sitting in the fridge for approximately 9 months now. C is not into it. I don't think it will be good still next fall. So someone else must enjoy it.

I listen to traffic and weather on WTOP. Last weekend they had a story on using skunked beer on your tomatoes. I'm not sure if this beer could be considered "skunked" but why not give it a try. We'll see what happens.

WTOP Story: http://www.wtop.com/?nid=41&sid=2442757

Love always.

Distractions

2011-07-03T14:13:00.000-07:00

I haven't been able to post in a week for a couple of reasons but mainly due to the fact that I've been very busy knitting and watching this show.

I ~~applaud~~ blame my dear friend L for this problem. Without giving anything away, I was sobbing during the second to last episode of the first season, and I don't think it was pregnancy hormones. The show is just that good. Good thing school is out, because I would be very unproductive if it was still in! I am currently watching Episode 1 of the second season now.

In the realm of knitting, I've been working on 5-year-old-Baby-Blanket. I am determined to finish this project. I just had another baby hat failure. Regardless of what this blanket ends up looking like, finishing it will be a success. I'm going to attempt one last time at Baby Hat. I think my issue is following these free Ravelry patterns like they're scripture. Some common sense is needed as well. With this hat for example, despite warnings from other knitters and what I could see with my own eyes, I continued with the slow decrease even though I could tell the hat was beginning to look more like a bowl than a hat. This time when I think I need to tighten up, I'm going to do it, regardless of what the pattern says.

Luckily there is a charity knit going on next weekend where I can donate my hat :assuming it is a success:. Because Ben does not need 80 baby hats. And you don't have to go during the actual event. You can donate until the end of the month.

Redemption

2011-06-25T07:48:00.000-07:00

I had a positive experience in the state of Maryland yesterday so I thought I should blog about it since I bashed the State of Opportunity in an earlier post.

Okay, so it didn't start off so positive. I had to go to the Montgomery County Permit Office to pull an electrical permit in the morning. This would be the same permit office that I left in tears approximately two years ago. That will have to be another post though. This is also my least favorite permit office of all the counties we work in and to make matters even more fun, it is 45 minutes away without traffic. Sometimes I even metro to it, just so I can occupy my brain with a book or knitting or what not instead of sitting in the car. Walking from the metro station to the permit office is not going to happen with this belly right now though!

So anyway, I get in there - it's been about a year since I've visited because during the school year, we usually have someone else go get the Montgomery permits. I go and check in only to be told I'm not on the list of authorized representatives for the company. What?!?! Despite my name matching the company's name, they were not going to be able to issue the permit to me. I relay that I've pulled permits here before without a problem. They say it must have been a while because this policy has been in effect for a couple of months.. blah, blah, blah. Well, maybe so. They say they can process the application and mail it. Fine.

The issue here that arises is we can't request an inspection until we have a permit number so I just hope they can at least tell me the permit number. We need an inspection on Monday.

I take my seat and wait to be called by the permit technician. I have brought my knitting, so this is no problemo for me. Although I am starving. Note to self for next time: a) Bring knitting, b) Bring snack c) Write and bring letter stating I'm an authorized rep.

After a half hour or so a lady comes out and calls my name. She is beautiful. She has on a traditional African-style dress and just seems so peaceful. Peacefulness and Montgomery County Permit Office are two concepts I never thought would appear in the same blog post. But it is so.

We go back to her desk and she issues the permit saying again that she will have to mail it, as I am not an authorized rep. She also says (truly regretfully) that she cannot give me the permit number, nor can C. call and get it. We just have to wait on the USPS. But, she says, she will get me all the information I need to become an authorized rep. And then, she tilts her computer screen ever so slightly in my direction, which has the permit displayed with the permit number bright and clear in the top right hand corner.

I knew there was something wonderful about this lady. She leaves for about 3 minutes and even though I think she invited this, I feel naughty as I jot down the permit number on my notes.

She comes back into her cubicle, gives me the paperwork to become an authorized rep, and readjusts her screen.

Saint I tell you. Saint. She also has calming Bible verses and sayings posted around her cubicle walls. There are nice people in the Montgomery County Permit Office. And so ends Positive Maryland June Experience #1.

Begin Positive Maryland June Experience #2.

After grabbing a bite to eat outside the permit office, I head back to the baby store I had the unsuccessful experience at last week. This time they are open and very helpful. The man helps me to find a perfect car seat for Ben. And he wears a yarmulke. I like yarmulkes. I also like peyos.

I'm truly anxious to read Unchosen: The Hidden Lives of Hasidic Rebels. I wish I could remember the name, but I loved a book we read in high school about a family in New York who practiced Hasidic Judaism.

Okay, this is getting off topic.

Love to all. Happy Saturday!

Sbucks is my Crack

2011-06-24T04:33:00.000-07:00

And this is a problem.

I normally have control over my problem. When I got my first "real" teaching job (ie. not including subbing -which really can be like real teaching, I'm not putting down subs in anyway - tough job! and Americorps) my dad got me a $50 gift card to this crack dealer coffee establishment. It was gone by October. That's about one month kids that it took me to roll through a Grant (Did you know he was the president on the $50?) in coffee and scones. I multiplied that times 12 and realized I cannot keep this up on a teacher's salary.

Surprisingly, I did not have much of a problem quitting my habit. Like when someone gets in a wreckless driving accident and has to watch those gory accident videos to shock them into mending their ways, the quick disappearance of funds on my gift card in the month of frivolous visits to ~~the crack house~~ SBucks got me back on the wagon.

I started experimenting with this vice at a young age. It was sophomore year of high school I believe. One of my friends, S., (who went to a different high school) was like, "Hey, I had this great drink. You should try it." Damn her for that peer pressure. "It's called a Caramel Apple Cider". I was hooked after a few sips. You may be thinking, hey, but that drink doesn't even have caffeine in it. Well, that is true. Which makes it a perfect gateway drink. I quickly moved onto the harder drinks: Vanilla Almond Latte, Cinnamon Dolce Cappuccino and Java Chip Frapacino to name a few. I mourned the passing of the Tazoberry and Cream Frappaccino. Tear. Anyone else?

Cricket, cricket.

Okay, anyway, this went on until I found my ~~drug~~ drink of choice, the Mocha Latte. To be exact, the Tall Skim Mocha Latte with Whip. After getting back on the wagon, I probably had this once a month. A couple of times when I went to order it in the summer, they would automatically make it for me in Frappaccino or Iced. No!!!!! But, I held it in. No need to burn bridges with the ~~dealers~~ baristas.

So, once I got knocked up, I had to change my drink to Tall Skim Decaf Mocha Latte with Whip. Still just as delicious and satisfying. I thought all was well until last week, when I went in to my SBucks (conveniently located in a Safeway on my way to school) and ordered said drink. As I was leaving the barista said, "See you tomorrow". What??? Had I fallen back off the wagon without even realizing it??? I realize in the last month or so of school I made more "exceptions" like, well, we only have __ weeks of school left, I can get a coffee. I didn't sleep well last night, let me see if I can trick my body with my decaf coffee, etc. But I didn't think I'd been consistent enough to receive a "See you tomorrow". Holy Moley. And then my vice kicked in even stronger because my next thought was, "Well, I'm going to HAVE to go tomorrow now because I don't want to disappoint her." Omg. And I did. But, I haven't been since kids. I'm staying strong. I promise. You can keep me accountable.

Reason # 3,968 Why Amy Needs to Suck It Up and Get a New Cell Phone

2011-06-24T00:47:00.000-07:00

Specifically an IPhone4

Subpoints:

-Currently, to charge my phone, I have to follow the proceeding steps: a)Insert charger. b)Pray for some sort of connection to be made. c)Keep jiggling with the charger using miniscule movements to try and find the connection Pray again. d)Connection found! e) DON'T MOVE A MUSCLE in order not to disturb the connection. f) If I happen to sneeze or, God forbid, me heart beats and I move the slightest amount, the connection will be lost. g) Repeat process.

-My current phone is approximately 4 years old. It looks really good. It just has a few kinks. See previous subpoint.

-I've been receiving peer pressure for years to upgrade. This normally relates to my inability to text efficiently.

-My plan is up.

-I have a cell phone boyfriend. He's my AT&T representative at US Telecommunications. Just kidding, he's not my real boyfriend. I'm not being mean, but he wears short sleeved collared shirts. It's okay though, because he's a grandpa. Like, a real grandpa. He likes to talk about his grandson and ask me about my impending arrival. I visit him once or twice a week to talk about getting a new phone. I always bring some sort of question related to our business plan as well, to try and pull the wool over his eyes that I'm not actually there for myself.

UPDATE: So, today I did it. And I have pictures to prove it. It was actually painless. And I broke the news to C and he was totally fine with it, maybe even slightly envious.

Please disregard the poor lighting. It's 3:45 in the morning and I can't sleep. Please don't disregard the cloth diapering APP I immediately downloaded. Omg I'm a nerd. Anyway, it was been so fun although I still have much to learn. More later. Love always.

My New Shampoo

2011-06-20T03:50:00.000-07:00

It is no secret that I'm not monogamous when it comes to shampoos. My current flame is Organix Tea Tree Mint Shampoo and the corresponding conditioner. When we had Girl's Weekend in Virginia Beach, I packed very lightly and therefore had to use the majority of my dear friend C.'s beauty and hygiene products, including Organix Tea Tree Mint Shampoo. And I'm so glad I did. Because I can't stop smelling my hair. Yes.

As you can see, I still like the Fekkai glossing creme I blogged about before but I don't think I'll buy it again. It just lasts forever since you only use a pea sized amount each time.

Reason # 3,968 to Stay Out of Maryland

2011-06-19T04:39:00.000-07:00

Let me preface this entry with a disclaimer. There are actually several parts of Maryland that are exempt from this statement: a) Any yarn shop, particularly a tangled skein in Hyattsville and knit and stitch in Bethesda, b) My dear friend L.'s and any of her surrounding areas = many good times have been had around here including delicious beer, delicious cupcakes and knitting to name only a few, c) areas surrounding where my dear friend and roomie S. used to live - my world would have been less entertaining without watching the drug busts across the street from her house and there was also an awesome FREE book exchange down the street and last but not least, d) Camden Yards. There actually may be more exemptions I'm unaware of, but probably not.

After a very unsuccessful outing for a car seat yesterday to Columbia, Maryland (another post in itself), C. and I decided to stop for some chicken nuggets at Wendy's yesterday on our hour long drive home. (Okay, really, I had to pee but chicken nuggets were a good excuse to patronize the Wendy's restroom). We knew we were going to be consuming deliciousness later at a party so we didn't want to have a full-fledged meal. Back to the topic at hand: There was a woman parked the wrong way in the Wendy's Drive Thru. I wish I had taken a picture but I didn't have my camera or a functioning cell phone (see related blog entry - Reason # 3,968 Why Amy Needs to Suck It Up and Get a New Cell Phone, Specifically an IPhone4 - oops, just kidding, I haven't written that yet). The purpose of this woman parked this way is unclear since there was an empty parking space literally 20 feet away. The car was definitely okay because it was running. Her husband appeared to be bussing food back and forth to the car like they do at Sonic. Except we weren't at Sonic, we were at Wendy's. And then he would go back into the side door right next to their car and bring out napkins and condiments, etc. All the while, the patrons of the busy drive thru were forming a semi circle of a line around her. She continued consuming her Wendy's without paying any heed to them. I can only conclude laziness or lack of knowledge related to how drive thrus work was the reason for parking here.

C. and I didn't get to see the outcome of this debacle as we witnessed it all from the red light we waiting at as we were leaving the Wendy's parking lot. But, the few seconds we witnessed were painful enough. At least the chicken nuggets (boneless chicken wings in buffalo sauce to be exact) were delicious.

In other news, I got a manicure with my Pirates of the Caribbean colors Mermaid Tears and Skull & Glossbones on Friday and it was wonderful. The woman was like, "Are you going somewhere special tonight?" And I was like, "No, this Pirates of the Caribbean manicure is all for me".

You've Got to Be Kidding Me

2011-06-17T09:47:00.000-07:00

Stolen from French Press Knits

6th Grade Promotion

2011-06-16T17:42:00.000-07:00

Today we had our 6th grade promotion ceremony. I remember being so surprised the first time I witnessed this because it's a much bigger deal than my 6th promotion was. I went to elementary school only 15 minutes away from my current school so I don't think this is due to location. I believe part of it is due to the fact that I went to elementary school 17 years ago.

There was an article in the post a couple of days ago.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/local/pomp-as-students-finish-elementary-school-but-is-it-a-real-graduation/2011/06/14/AGX5eCVH_story.html

A very rough summary would say that it questions whether or not elementary schools now make too big a deal of "6th grade graduation". Apparently some school really do-it-up to be just like high school graduation. While it's a much bigger deal at my current school than it was at my elementary school two decades ago, we don't play Pomp and Circumstance by any means. And, I would say one of the main reasons it's a bigger deal at my school is that many of our families are coming from situations where the parents weren't able to complete any advanced schooling or even middle school for that matter. I've attended many meetings where parents state that their highest level of education is 3rd grade. Many of these parents are coming from parts of central America that was war-torn in their primary education years. So, obviously, it is a big deal for these families. The article only touches on this. "Marking the end of the starter years can be as important as a high school or even college ceremony to families that don’t have a tradition of academic progress, said Aara Davis-Jones, principal of Silver Spring’s Georgian Forest Elementary. At her school, one of Montgomery County’s poorest, with 75 percent of pupils on free or reduced-cost meals, many parents are recent immigrants who are thrilled to see their children with a certificate in hand."

I'm not going to lie. I may or may not have heard fellow colleagues joke saying, "It's a big deal at our school because this may be the only graduation that some of our kids experience". And, I may have chuckled. But, I can't believe that to be true. I have to believe we make a bigger difference than that.

Bottom line: I got very dressed up today too along with my students. And, I took A LOT of pics. I'm not going to post many because I'm not sure about posting pics of kiddos.

There were three of these babies. Yum.

And I was so proud of them. And, I expect to see them graduating from high school in 6 more years.

This blog entry is getting much too serious for me. Let's move onto a less sobering, yet just as important issue. I made an incredibly exciting purchase at Giant today. Check this out.

Oh my gah. In case you can't tell, this is guava juice. I flipping love guava juice. I first had it in Hawaii when I was in the 6th grade. It has always been available here, but in costly bottles or in thick, sticky consistensies. But this jount is good. I just had some with dinner. I wasn't going to have dinner because I had a delicious lunch with some of my Dear Ones. But then I smelled the sausage on the grill and wanted to have some of this juice with it. Yes. I highly recommend.

Okay, starting to ramble. Must get ready for bed. Love always.

Prepping

2011-06-15T13:40:00.000-07:00

So on Friday afternoon I prepped my Econobum prefolds. I'm really hoping these guys do the trick with some of my newborn and small diaper covers (as well as into the post newborn phase). If they don't, I'm in trouble, because I only have 3 newborn all-in-one diapers. Okay, I wouldn't really be in trouble - there's always a solution. I just hope it works so I don't have to resort to a costly solution. Back to the matter at hand...

I followed a link I saw on Baby Center to get an idea of how to prep. The directions for Econobum prefold suggest washing 5 to 6 times for prepping which I'm sure I'll end up doing eventually, but I like the idea of boiling initially.

So I got a big pot. Even with the biggest pot we own, I could only fit in 6 at a time.

I boiled them for approximately 20 to 25 minutes. Then I carefully dumped out the water and used a wooden spoon to put them in the sink to cool. I repeated this to finish all the prefolds.

Check out that steam!

Once they were cool, I brought them upstairs to the laundry. I washed again and fluffed in dryer.

Then I hung them to dry on the banister. Someday I'll get a clothesline! Even though they're not fully prepped, I still feel much better knowing that if the baby came a little early, I'd have something to put on his bum besides a disposable. Not that I judge babies in disposables, I just want to use cloth as soon as possible (re: saving $$$)!

Work Shower

2011-06-14T13:11:00.000-07:00

I had alluded to my work shower in this post so now I'm going to share some more details.

I just have some really fabulous work friends. I feel like I could even leave out the "work" and just call them "friends". Throwing the shower were my friends K. and M.

It wasn't just collegues from my current school; there were a couple of friends there that I had worked with in the past as well, so it was great to see them.

I'll say it here and I'm sure I'll say it a dozen more times: Ben is a lucky baby that his mom has such good friends.

Cute, usable decorations!

Favors by L.

Delicious food

Activity Station!

I got some soakers! Oops, I mean Ben got some soakers.

Owen came to visit too!

Anniversary Weekend

2011-06-13T05:27:00.000-07:00

I have to take a quick, sappy moment to write about my anniversary weekend. It was fabulous. And, we didn't really do anything.

Saturday, June 11th

We got up very leisurely compared to our normal 5:30 am alarm. Like, I believe we stayed in bed until 8:00. It was great. I'm a morning person but still appreciate an extra few hours of lazy time.

Bacon was cooked up for breakfast with some eggs and toast. My eggs had jalapenos in them. Score. I would have been happy with that for my entire anniversary weekend.

Then, C put together the bookshelf for ~~my new scrapbooking room~~ the guest room. Once we started putting together the nursery, we had to move all my scrapbooking supplies out. The bookshelf is going to help me organize them in ~~my new scrapbooking room~~ the guest room. This was also a mega win for me and I would have been happy with this as my anniversary present. C was talking about signing me up for the TLC show Hoarding: Buried Alive, but now I think I've been saved. I even caught myself having some Hoarder tendencies in this situation, but I couldn't help it. Regardless, all is well now.

Before

After - I think this pic is so funny. Once I've organized, I'll post another.

We caught a matinee of Pirates of the Caribbean: Stranger Tides. Again, I'm not sure why these movies are so fun to me. They're not the best but I just love them and this one is included. Additionally, I was wearing my Pirates of the Caribbean: Stranger Tide nail polish colors in Mermaid Tears and Skull & Glossbones. Oh my god. Yes.

For dinner, we went to Bilbo Baggins. We had been there one year ago for our rehearsal dinner. It was delicious, as usual. C had one of their fabulous draft beers and I rocked a Shirley Temple. And this year, we didn't get a parking ticket! This was followed up by cones at Scoop Grill, by far my favorite ice cream shop.

Sunday, June 12th

This is our actual anniversary.

I had to run to church. It was graduation Sunday and I was bringing the cake and a slide show. I'm not sure why all this graduation hoopla was way fun to me, but it really was. There was some drama, but all prevailed. I used PhotoStory 3 and Snagit to make the video. I'm taking a year of leave next year for the baby, but I'm so in love with this software, I'm considering going back to work right away just so I can still have access. Ok, not really, but I really do love these two programs. Feel free to have a watch. Or not.

Allison and me after church. This picture doesn't do justice to how pregnant we are. But, you can kind of tell.

I met up with C afterwards at the marina and we went to lunch. He walked back to the marina and I went to my work baby shower! This was so wonderful it's going to be another post all it's own.

I came home exhausted and took a nap after showing C what a lucky boy Ben is that his Mommy has such wonderful work friends. We finished up our anniversary weekend by grilling some filets and asparagus. Yum. I'm so lucky.

32 ish Weeks

2011-06-08T13:53:00.000-07:00

Ben, 32ish weeks

I don't have a lot to write today but here is an updated pic! Baby (who we're calling Ben, have I mentioned that?) is growing fast! I was even asking the doctor at my last appointment how he's going to keep growing but she said he's only measuring a week big and all is fine. I just can't imagine growing for 8 more weeks! But, all is well. Feeling fine. Although I'm scarfing down a piece of peanut butter toast and a pear while I type because I just took my prenatal vitamin with eating beforehand. If you ever want to feel queasy, that's the ticket! So, PB toast should make me feel ALL better. More later, love always.

Monday Funday

2011-05-23T16:10:00.000-07:00

I don't have inspiration today to write about one particular thing, so here's a smattering of fun facts about my Monday.

1) My baby kicked my doctor today. She asked for it though. She woke him up. I'm cranky when I wake up too. She was pawing around trying to figure out if he was head down yet [we couldn't figure it out, but I think breech - I'm getting fluttery kicks that feel like feet at the bottom]. Afterwards, she went to measure me and he was kicking up a storm.

2) This is probably not exciting to most, but I enjoy taking pictures of old electrical boxes. Or, just out-of-code electrical setups in general. I took a walking tour [by myself, obvi] in the Dominican Republic taking pics of their interesting [to put it nicely] setups. I'm not judging though, I always had electricity there.

This one's actually okay, but it is still old. It is in my husband's garage. We were taking a picture of it for a friend, who happens to know the man who's dad originally installed it. We're not sure when that was, but the guy's dad is in his late 80's/early 90's now.

3) Speaking of electrical paraphernalia, I made a mistake at the electrical supply house on Friday and promptly got in trouble with my boss [read: husband]. Basically, I didn't count my order correctly and came home without a piece that was needed. I had to go back and fix this today. The lady helping me was so nice that I wanted to either cry and/or hug her. I did neither. But I wanted to. It just seemed inappropriate.

4) We have a new tenant! She's shy though. I mean, I assume she's a she. Do he-birds build nests? She flew away when I was taking this pic. You can see she's got a nice crib though.

5) And here is a sample of her view. Her pad hangs directly above the garden. Although I have spent a total of approximately 30 minutes in the garden this year, several of the hardier herbs wintered over! The mint and the sage even multiplied. The sage is especially impressive right now. I need find some recipes that incorporate sage. The dill and rosemary also survived. I guess it's not too surprising - we didn't have all that eventful of a winter.

Sage

I hope our new neighbor doesn't move out once I start working in the garden again.

Wicked Craving

2011-05-18T15:15:00.000-07:00

As I've mentioned before, this pregnancy has not brought along with it your typical food cravings. Let me assure you this has not hindered me from gaining weight. Possibly the opposite. Because I do not have a specific food craving, I pretty much let my body eat what it wants, as long as it is not on the no-no list. This usually means copious amounts of Life cereal. I've always been a fan of Life cereal.

However, my body has developed another craving and that craving is for yarn. Not to eat it, but to obtain it and turn it into something. I've finished a blanket [success] and hat [fail] and baby sweater [success]. I'm currently working on a dish towel and another baby blanket and have several projects in my head wanting to be started.

So, today after I'd finished my work, I sat down to do some knitting and promptly feel asleep. I woke up suddenly with a severe yarn craving. I had to get to the yarn store immediately and not just any yarn store. I had to get to A Tangled Skein. In Hyattsville. Maryland. That's right. I said Maryland. While it may be a bordering state, as any Virginian will tell you, it's really another country. But I had to go. With nap hair and eyes that weren't fully open yet. I left and made it in about 45 minutes. The woman at the store was wonderful and understood my needs. I purchased yarn to make a sweater. This time for myself. And I can't wait.

Love always.

Max, what are we going to do with you?

2011-05-17T10:08:00.000-07:00

We had an eventful morning today.

I went outside and started my car and got one load of school stuff in. I came back in to get the rest and headed back out to get to work. Our SOLs begin today so I wanted to get some things done before picking up testing materials and the like. However, as I head out, I see two DOGS ON THE LOOSE. It is obvious they are having a grand ol’ time. They appear to be brothers. One is medium-sized and the other a smaller variety. [* To put it mildly, I am not a dog person, so I can’t really tell details such as breeds etc. All you’re going to get from me is sizes and colors - they were muddy white]. I call to them but they must think I’m playing because they run from me and do a lap around the house. As they come around though, Little Guy runs to me. Not only do they have bandanas on, they have collars with their names, addresses, phone numbers, vaccinations, etc. Little Guy is actually Max. I get a hold of him and bring him inside. This is not a very pleasant experience as it is raining and dogs have an odd chemical property of becoming stinkballs once they’re wet. But, alas, we make it in and C. calls the owner. Max’s brother is still on the loose. I couldn’t handle both of them.

The owner says she has to take her kids to school and then she’ll come get him. I have no idea what we’re supposed to do with a canine for however long that will take. C has more experience though and goes to get a rope to tie Max to the porch. We get him tied up and I go get him some water. C thinks I’m crazy because as I aforementioned, it is pouring rain. Hasn’t he ever heard the saying, “Water, water everywhere but not a drop to drink?” That could be how Max feels. As soon as Max is tied up and realizes his brother is still on the run, he starts crying like a schoolgirl. I’m wondering if I made a big mistake “saving” Max. While I was all ready for work with blow-dried hair and all, I’m now wet, stink with wet-dog-stink and pregnant. Still.

I washed my hands and left for work, still pondering if this was a mistake. I came to a quick conclusion though thinking if Max had stayed on the loose, he could have gotten hit by a car and that would be so sad. Even if I don’t like dogs. I tried to pretend Max was a cat. It was hard though because he was so stinky. These were obviously dogs that had never learned to look both ways before crossing the street. I hope Max’s brother made it home safely as well. So, in the end, I’m glad Max was saved. I'm home from work now and Max is gone. The owner left a nice message on our machine saying he made it home safely.

In other more exciting news, let me tell you about my new favorite hair product. I am in love with the Fekkai line right now, especially the glossing cream. If I didn’t have to do some work right now, I would just sit on the couch, knit and smell my hair. Not only does it smell good, it feels good too. I can’t say it looks good right now, but I blame Max and the rain for that. It could look good okay? It is $$$, but I had a coupon. Obvi.

Love always.

Registries

2011-05-14T13:57:00.000-07:00

When it came time to make a registry for my wedding, I pretty much did everything I could to avoid it. I had been living on my own for 7 years or so, so I had functioning plates and some semi-absorbent dishtowels already. I wanted to do donations to a charity instead. Several dear friends and family were appalled.

I heard, "Don't you want your dishes to match?" "Don't you want towels that don't have holes and/or bleach stains?" "Don't you want glasses instead of cups that you shared with college roommates for four years?"

I replied, "I love my college roommates very much, thank you very much. I would gladly continue to use plastic ware we shared". "Don't bleach stains give towels more character?" "I happen to like a Thanksgiving table set with a rainbow of different colored/patterned plates".

But, alas, I caved. And, I'm so glad I did. Not only is it nice drying off with a clean, whole (not holey) towel, it is also nice drinking out of real glasses as opposed to plastic ones. Primarily, I'm glad we registered because I think about the people that gave us the things every time we use them. Thank you Readings for our matching plates. Thank you Cousin Tracy and Uncle Larry and Aunt Barb for our flatware. Thank you Elizabeth for our towels. Etc.

And we were able to satisfy my urge to donate by doing this in lieu of favors. I hope the guests didn't mind.

When it came to making a baby registry, I began to have the same hesitations come up. "Why do I need to make a baby registry? I thought all they needed was the boob?" However, I was much more easily persuaded when it came to this registry. There is that whole issue of pee and poo with babies and I certainly don't have any diapers left over from college. And the boob is great, and I have two of them, but I was reminded that I might want to go out on a date with my husband sometime in the next couple of years and not bring the baby. I might want to consider some bottles. The only bottles we have right now are filled with beer, so I better register for something more fit for an infant. The true tipping point though was: the baby sling. I've practiced carrying my cats in slings for years. I wish I were joking, but I'm not, and I have pictures to prove it. My time has arrived to use a sling on a real human. How can I pass this up? So, I researched. And, I registered. Today, to be exact.

First I rocked out a few things at Amazon. I knew I wanted to primarily register at the cloth diaper store, obvi. But, Abby's Lane [the cloth diaper store] only sells, uh, cloth diapers and related paraphernalia. So, I turned to Amazon for things like crib sheets and the like. I think I've got my bases covered now and I'm feeling good. The only tragedy is that everywhere is sold out of my beloved sling. What to do. I emailed and visited the store to see about a remedy. They're working on it.

In other news, I finished another project. It turned out pretty poorly, but I learned several new skills while doing it so I deem it worthwhile.

The issue is that even after several attempts to shrink it, it is still way too big to be the baby hat it claims to be. Blast. I'll wear it.

Love to all. Always.

Finished Product

2011-04-26T17:31:00.000-07:00

I finished one of my projects tonight! This was largely due to the 8-hour drive to and from Tennessee. Who knew long car trips were such a good time to get a TON of crocheting done? I did have to pace myself to avoid the queasy carsick feeling, but still felt like I got a bunch accomplished.

I also experimented with the "blocking" process for this project too. I found some wool wash at my local yarn shop. I'm certainly no expert, but in terms of baby blanket, this seems to be merely a fancy term for "hand washing". Although, it was still miraculous. Since this was my first real baby blanket, there were some irregularities, to say the least, on the sides of the blanket. Blocking allowed me to stretch, or push in the sides and make it appear much more uniform. Apparently this becomes much more important as you're making adult sweaters and things of that nature. We're not on that level yet.

Soaking for 15 minutes in the sink

Flattened over garbage bags on my table

This was where I was able to stretch or push in uneven sides. Once it dried, they stayed straight. The blanket ended up at about 33" x 37".

In other news, Baby has been VERY active today. I have my glucose test next week so hopefully all will go well. That will be my last big "test" until the baby is born. Counting down the weeks! His room is a work in progress. Hopefully we'll get some more done this weekend and then I'll be able to post some pics.

Love always.

No Shame

2011-04-20T13:30:00.000-07:00

Good afternoon! It is spring break.

I'm feeling extra peppy this hour. I attribute this to several factors: a) I just had a mug of mint chocolate chip ice cream with dark chocolate syrup, b) I've made progress on the baby's room and guest room, c) I've made progress on my knitting projects but, primarily because d) I just came home with some Wicked tickets!

I wasn't sure if this was going to happen because by the time I was able to get to ordering tickets, they were nearly all sold out. Except for the expensive ones. Additionally, there were no groups of seats together - if I went with anyone, we'd have to sit individually which I wouldn't mind, but some people do. Well, they had some cheaper ones in late July and August but I expect to be occupied then. So after a trip to the Kennedy Center Box Office and talking to a most wonderful man who worked there, we were able to secure affordable tickets for my family and we're actually sitting [pretty much] together. Pretty pumped. It is the first week of July. So baby better not come early. :) Just kidding - he can come when he wants, but I would really love to see this show baby. Please cook until your due date.

So, prepare your eyes. Or, navigate away from this page. Because I'm about to show some skin. Quite a bit of skin. I'm starting to feel very large so the pictures may stop coming at some point. But, while I'm feeling shameless, I thought I'd post a 26-week photo. Enjoy. Or don't.

{Picture removed - Just couldn't do it :)}

How far along? 26 weeks

Total weight gain/loss: 24 lbs O.M.G.

Maternity clothes? Just pants. I'm probably stretching out my regular shirts now but they're still "fitting".
Stretch marks? None that weren't already there.
Sleep: Pretty good actually. I think thanks to a good walk with P. on Monday and then cleaning yesterday
Best moment this week: Watching the baby kick with Chris
Movement: Getting more and more active daily
Food cravings: Chocolate. But again, I think I just allow myself to have things during pregnancy that I tried to hold back on in "normal" like. Like chocolate. And LIFE cereal.
Gender: Baby Boy - Benjamin
Labor Signs: Nope
Belly Button in or out? Innie
What I miss: Beer. Still.
What I am looking forward to: Currently, Rebecca's wedding, next March!
Weekly Wisdom: Live simply.

Milestones: Watching the baby kick

My Other Sweet Addiction

2011-04-06T10:40:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I wrote about my recent crocheting obsession. I have another new addiction too, and that is prenatal yoga. I've found two places relatively close to where I live that offer it. I think I love the physical benefits as much as the socialization in the classes. It just feels so good afterwards, like I've had a massage but then it also feels like a workout. [Who knew you're supposed to do 5 minutes of squats throughout pregnancy - what?] I like how they're both laid back too. Ie. You don't have to be pregnant to be in the class. It's for anyone, they just make accomodations for growing bellies.

My favorite part is waking up the next day. When I was running I would wake up ready to start the day but ever since I've been pregnant and stopped running, I've had to pry myself out of bed. The day after I took my first yoga class, I woke up before the alarm and was just rearin' to go. It's been the same ever since. It was actually worrisome at first because I was thinking, "Ah! I'm pregnant! I shouldn't feel this good! What if something happened to the baby?" But I had a healthy appt yesterday and heard the heart beat loud and strong.

This looks almost indecent but this is my favorite part of the class - relaxation time.


Savasana Pose in Prenatal Yoga

Here's a belly update.


23 Weeks

Total weight gain/loss: This is embarrassing but, I'm up 18 ilbs!

Maternity clothes? I have a few pairs of maternity pants but most of my shirts are still my regular shirts.

Stretch marks? Nope

Sleep: Not my favorite time due to some restless legs.
 
Best moment this week: Hearing the heartbeat at the doctor's
 
Movement: He is getting more and more active but it varies by day
 
Food cravings: I wish I had a better answer here but, nothing in particular

Gender: Baby Boy! 

Labor Signs: Nope

Belly Button in or out? Innie, but it's inching it's way out

What I miss: real beer.  just being honest.

What I am looking forward to: Chris feeling him kick.

Weekly Wisdom: Don't worry about needing a stroller, crib, highchair right away!
 
Milestones: More consistent kicks

Don't Eat the Hook

2011-04-05T12:50:00.000-07:00

Good afternoon!

I check Blogger daily anxiously awaiting an entry posted by friends I don't get to see often, friends I've never met in real life, or even people I see daily. But, many days, I don't post myself. Well, today I've had some inspiration.

Is it possible to have a non-gastronomical pregnancy craving? I haven't been craving any food in particular. However, I cannot stop thinking about crocheting. Crocheting is my pregnancy craving. And yarn is my crack. I mean, I assume this is what withdrawal feels like. I've never actually tried any hard drugs. But I got a new skein of yarn today and all I can think about it looking at it and touching it. I like to think about where it came from (Tennessee) and the person who dyed it (Miss Babs). I am strange. But I can't help it.

I bring my current project wherever I go in the event that I'll have two minutes to do a few stitches. I feel like I'm committing adultery on my scrapbooking tools and paper but I don't even think about them anymore. What is wrong with me?

And let me clarify, I actually have three current projects. I'm working on two baby blankets and one baby sweater.

Here is the yarn I will use for the sweater which will begin on Thursday. The ball is actually quite large although the picture doesn't show it.

My newest stash: Miss Babs Yowsa in Denim

This is the baby blanket I'm currently crocheting.


Blue Sky Alpacas in Wasabi

Lastly, here is a baby blanket I started circa 2006. You read that right, about 5 years ago. As you can see, it was knitted and I've forgotten how to do that, so my first step is to relearn that skill. Secondly, I need to decide if I want to make the rest of the squares in the cream I've been using or in another color. And finally, I need to knit it and stitch them together. Perhaps I will finish by 2012.

Cloth Diapies and Lorac

2011-03-10T13:19:00.000-08:00

I started my stash of cloth diapies yesterday. I'm very bent on and obsessed with cloth diapering. My family thinks I'm crazy. I really had to fight to get my husband on board. Most of my dear friends are supportive and have fabulous advice. So, I got my first two off a lady on Craigslist. I realize this also sounds crazy, but she was very nice and I feel like if we hadn't met on Craigslist but in some other realm, we would be friends. We could still become friends, but it will have to be through another venue.


BumGenius All In One

In other very different news, I have discovered a new foundation I am in love with. This would be Lorac's Natural Performance Foundation. It has changed my life. I previously used BareMinerals but it was drying me out like no other. I took a trip to Ulta one day when I was feeling mega fat-ugly-pregnant and the wonderful sales woman hooked me up with some Lorac. My days have been rosy since.

Love always!

Growing

2011-02-06T14:05:00.000-08:00

So, our weekly movie date has fallen by the wayside as C has been expanding his garage. Even though this is sort of a broken resolution, I don't feel bad about it. Selfishly, I'm thankful for my scrapbooking and cleaning time when he's working outside with his buddies. Okay, I'm probably more thankful for the scrapbooking time than the cleaning time.

I'm ready to share that there have been some crazy things happening in my body. I'm expanding, and it's not just because I've developed a penchant for making homemade ice cream. Weird ligaments I never knew I had are stretching. It's because I'm knocked up. We are excited. I have my four-month appointment tomorrow.

Here is the bambino that wiggling inside me. This was taken three weeks ago-ish at our first ultrasound appointment.

Here is my growing belly at 14 weeks. It has popped much more since then but I haven't had a chance for another personal photo shoot. This week hopefully!

I haven't been nearly as documentary as I'd hoped I'd be. No pregnancy journal, slacking on weekly photo shots. It's just flying by now and I'm just enjoying as it goes. I found this little survey on another blog that I'll lift as some form of a pregnancy journal.

How far along? 15 1/2 weeks

Total weight gain/loss: + 7 lbs

Maternity clothes? I have a pair of jeans and a pair of khakis I've been wearing. But I can still wear my normal pants with the Bella Band.
Stretch marks? Nope
Sleep: Lots. At night and a nap if possible during the day.
Best moment this week: When the growing pains stopped and the belly popped.
Movement: None yet
Food cravings: Grapes
Gender: No idea!
Labor Signs: Nope
Belly Button in or out? Innie
What I miss: Running
What I am looking forward to: Doctor's appointment tomorrow. Hope to hear the heartbeat.
Weekly Wisdom: Be Zen. - Friend at Church Buy a Kindle. - Dear Friend L

Milestones: Belly popping.

Yet Another Snow Day!

2011-01-28T15:01:00.000-08:00

By the time I see my kids [read: students] again, it will have been a full week since I've seen them last due to snow days and teacher work days. Crazy. Not that I haven't enjoyed the break, it just is going to put us in a time crunch. On top of all this, report cards are due shortly so I will have some exciting weekend activities to partake in [ie. bubbling].

Like I said, I'm not complaining. I've made good use of my break. I've gotten in some daily exercise [albeit through FitTV], gotten in some crafting, and made two batches of homemade ice cream. Don't worry, I've only had one [healthy] serving of each and given the rest away. But, I can't control myself in terms of the preparing of the ice cream. I want to make another batch tomorrow. I've only made French Vanilla, Chocolate and Pumpkin. I want to branch out and make something like Cookies and Cream or Butter Pecan. You know, something that has things IN it.

My last movie review before I'm all caught up.

Last Saturday my momma and I went to see No Strings Attached with Natalie Portman and Ashton Kutcher.

My Take

It was a good Saturday morning movie to see. Very "Rom-Com" as they say. There was a little more action than I expected. When I say "action", I'm referring to action in the sheets. I didn't think Natalie Portman would partake in that kind of action on screen. Just a little warning. I don't remember there being too much nudity though. I'm just saying, don't go with your kids or anything.

This would be another one I'd recommend seeing on DVD. As I said, I enjoyed it, but it would be just as enjoyable from the comfort of your own home. Where you can eat homemade ice cream. Yum.

Love always!

The Dilemma

2011-01-27T08:18:00.000-08:00

I've left some strings hanging on some previous posts that I'm ready to sew up.
I had mentioned that I was going to make a ridiculous scrapbooking purchase. I really was. I was about to go purchase this bad boy pictured to the right. There was a great sale going on. However, I was able to maintain my sanity and tell myself that I really did not need this. Which is the truth. I already have a dicutting system and I dont' have room for another. I'm really thankful I was able to talk myself off that cliff.

Secondly, I had mentioned being nervous about my photography class because of the potential of being a decade older than everyone else in the class. In turned out that the class was very diverse in terms of age. It's not very culturally diverse but my initial fear was appeased. In other news, class was canceled last night due to some major weather we've been experiencing. I don't know if I've ever heard sleet like that before!

Back to my movie reviews.

On January 16th, C and I went to see The Dilemma with Vince Vaughn. After seeing two action-y movies, it was time for a laugh. This movie was pretty comical. Vince Vaughn never fails. I also like the alliteration of his name. It made me brainstorm possible alliterate names if I were to have a child. I ended up with "Declan Dane". Declan is apparently an Irish name. That works, we have some Irish blood. It's original. Sadly, upon proposal to C though, I was quickly shot down. Back to the drawing board.
And, back to the topic at hand.

My Take

My final opinion on this movie is that it is recommended but I say wait until it's on DVD. You won't be missing anything by seeing this on your home television. And you might be more comfortable. And it will be easier to conjure up alliterate names for your unborn children without bothering the people seated around you.

College

2011-01-26T06:01:00.000-08:00

I started a class at Mason this week. It's an undergrad photography class. While very excited, I was also nervous about being the oldest in the class and out of the loop. As I made my way to the bookstore and through campus for our first session, it felt good to be a "college student" again.

I love the potential for people-watching on college campuses, especially in the JC or the building that has the main bookstore. I hope that doesn't sound creepy, but there's just all kinds of fun folks to watch.

I'm thoroughly excited about college bookstores. Perhaps this is another oddball teacher idiosyncrasy but there's so many fun products there. College apparel, cutesy gift items, pleasure reading, textbooks, school supplies! I can't contain myself. Although, I do think I'm more excited about buying textbooks now that I'm only taking one class and have a paying job.

Another thing that is strangely exhilarating to me about college campuses is the Absolute Pedestrian Right of Way. This is not present in all campuses but is very evident at Mason and was also at University of Tennessee. Pedestrians don't really even have to look before crossing the street as long as there is a crosswalk. You just go. And the cars just stop. No joke. The rumor at Tennessee was that if you get hit, the driver has to pay the rest of your college tuition. We believed this rumor as doctrine and us out-of-staters jay-walked with wild abandon. The same seems to be true at Mason. For whatever reason, it is still endearing to me even as a commuter. I stop at every crosswalk with care.

There were a few drawbacks to returning to a college campus a decade after I first enrolled in one. Notably, my class ends after my normal bedtime. I'm not sure how to handle this except for to try and squeeze in a nap between work, dinner and class. We'll see how this goes.

Lastly, when I left campus at 9:15ish (yes, you read that right, a quarter hour past my bed time) I passed by the gym which has a windowed wall facing the street and noticed nearly all the ellipticals were full of college girls. What are these crazy girls doing on cardio equipment past their bedtime??? I'll never understand. :)

The Tourist - No Spoilers

2011-01-17T06:05:00.000-08:00

I need to first restate that I have a scrapbooking problem. I know this is pretty well-known but I just had to make that confession again because I'm probably gong to make a ridiculous purchase today because of a ridiculous sale I encountered. More on that later.

I don't know how many of you saw the Golden Globes last night but I was enthralled. I get embarrassingly sucked into watching the stars all done up and such. I was a tad uncomfortable watching the opening monologue, as I believe everyone was, but the bit Gervais did about The Tourist rang slightly true. Start at 1:24.

My Take

Regardless of the fact that the film may not win any awards, it was still more than worth the $9 to me to see 103 minutes of Angelina and Johnny. I'm not even a big Angelina fan. But, the dress, the jewelry etc are just great to take in. C enjoyed this movie for different reasons. There is a lot of action and not any gore. It just kept you on your toes. So, again, I recommend.

PS. C and I did continue the tradition yesterday and saw another Sunday movie. That will be coming up. For now, off to the treadmill. Thank you, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. for a million reasons but also for giving me a day off. Love to you always.

True Grit - No Spoilers

2011-01-16T04:34:00.000-08:00

I've been on hiatus but I'm ready to revitalize!

Let me tell you that I did not really make any New Year's Resolutions this year. It's usually a big thing for me. In the past, I've made resolutions such as: Be better about sending birthday cards [2009], Learn to bake yeast breads [2010], Do a back bend [2008], etc. Besides the general things I want to always to focus on [ie Be healthy, Love others] I couldn't think of something that stuck for 2011.

However, a tradition has begun that I do hope sticks. C and I've been going to see a movie every Sunday afternoon. Hopefully it will continue. I'm going to give you a rundown on the first movie we saw on January 2, 2011.

Disclaimer: I usually like ALL movies I see. This makes me a lousy critic probably. But, I do like some better than others, so perhaps I can get by as a semi-critic.

True Grit

[Storyline from IMDB]

Following the murder of her father by hired hand Tom Chaney, 14-year-old farm girl Mattie Ross sets out to capture the killer. To aid her, she hires the toughest U.S. marshal she can find, a man with "true grit," Reuben J. "Rooster" Cogburn. Mattie insists on accompanying Cogburn, whose drinking, sloth, and generally reprobate character do not augment her faith in him. Against his wishes, she joins him in his trek into the Indian Nations in search of Chaney. They are joined by Texas Ranger LaBoeuf, who wants Chaney for his own purposes. The unlikely trio find danger and surprises on the journey, and each has his or her "grit" tested.

My Take

I'm not usually one for westerners, but this one kept me awake the whole time [and that's saying a lot as I'm prone to sleeping in the dark, coziness of a movie theater]. I really like the main character, Mattie Ross, and would like to see her in other things. Another one of my favorite things about this film was the soundtrack. I am a sucker for old-school, gospel-style hymns and this was the background music for much of this film.
There was some violence and shooting but nothing bothered me too much. It's PG-13 anyway. I recommend.

CP's Birthday; Office Shot

2010-11-19T01:28:00.000-08:00

A couple of times on this blog I've mentioned a friend CP - we ran a race together in May and I'm also thankful she's a colleague of mine. Well, believe it or not, she turned 30 yesterday! I can't believe it. Here is the card I made for her.

     I really love my team at school that I get to work with. We always try and do some sort of birthday celebration and today we're heading to Kingstowne to celebrate CP's. We usually try and make it a surprise but with our team continually growing (because our school population in general is exploding - hello trailers on the playground) and many different schedules, sometimes it's just not possible!

     Next I have a lovely picture of my DH in his office. (We've had a lot of fun sneaking up on each other with the new camera). Most of the time, he is working in the field but this is where all the electrical estimates and such take place. This is where I work in the afternoon.

     I have been having some insomnia for the past couple of nights so I'm already hungry for breakfast and it's 4:30 in the morning! Bah! Must run for now... love always!

New Camera, New Card

2010-11-16T10:04:00.000-08:00

Camera and I were just attached at the hip all weekend. It has been so busy; this is just my first chance to sit down and write. I still don't really feel like I know what I'm doing with Camera but we're getting used to each other. I'm trying it out in different lights, settings and times. Trying out all the different buttons. It is just so exciting to me.

Sunset - SOOC


Boat at Night - SOOC

In other news, another set of cards has been completed! This one was fun although more complicated. This was, of course, inspired by Kristina Werner's blog. Check it out!

3 Things

2010-11-13T11:55:00.000-08:00

Apparently I've been into lists recently.

#3 I'm on my way to a Spa-La-La party. This will be my second year attending. It is just a good ol' time to catch up with some church friends and check out some new products. Delicious products like milk chocolate caramel body souffle. That's right.

#2 Later on tonight C and I are heading out to Old Town to see The Johnny Artis Band. Can. not. wait.

Johnny Artis Band playing at our wedding

Last but not least, and most exciting to me...

#1 I got a new camera!!! Hence, the short post. I have been too busy playing with it. I hope to have it all charged up with some things to share tomorrow. I'm like a little kid about this. I'm ridiculously enthusiastic.

Currently Preparing: Test Turkey

More Christmas Cards

2010-11-12T16:46:00.000-08:00

Christmas card-making has consumed my life recently. It's all I think about. As soon as I'm showered, C is fed, and bed is made, I'm in the scrapbooking room doing cards. It's hard for me to leave for work. If I don't get some time after work to work on some, I'm irritable. I have a problem. Here's a couple I deviated from my current design to make. This design is courtesy of Kristina Werner. I seriously admire her eye for colors. I took some liberties with the font and embellishments due to supply (or lack thereof) and had a really good time making them. I've enjoyed Kristina's Christmas Card series!

PS. Apologies for the exposure. I'm getting a new camera STAT and signed up for a digital photography class.

Some Current Favorite Things

2010-11-11T11:54:00.000-08:00

This blog entry is mostly a procrastinatory one. I love both my jobs, but some things I have to do in the afternoon can be a bit mind-numbing. So, to procratinate a tad, let me post a list of my 5 current favorite things.

#5 Silk Therapy Hair Product

Let me tell you that I am not one to "do my hair". My MO is pretty much: wash, air dry twist into pencil. This product, however, helps me to make people THINK I do my hair, when really I just rub it with this action and blow dry for a couple of minutes. I had picked up a travel size Biosilk sample kit at Marshall's for our Honeymoon. I quickly used up the shampoo and conditioner on my mane and threw this one into the guest bathroom basket. One day I decided to give it a whirl and loved it. The only "minus" is that you have to wash your hands after applying because it leaves some residue. That's right, residue.

#4 Club Soda

While I normally rock out the Giant brand version of club soda, this is the only picture I could quickly find online. I love Club Soda. It makes me so happy. Sometimes it makes me feel like I'm enjoying a cocktail at dinner when I drink it, minus the alcohol. I particularly love it with some lime or cucumber.

#3 Bumble & Bumble Alojoba Conditioner

What is with the hair product evangelizing today? Normally I only buy shampoos and conditioners that I have coupons for because I honestly can't tell any major difference. Two weeks ago though, C and I got our flu shot at CVS. For your pain and trouble, CVS gives you a 10% discount on anything you purchase after your shot though. C and I picked up some discounted bottles of wine and this dearie. Love the smell, love the feel, love it. Too expensive to buy again, but I've loved the experience.

#2 Bumble & Bumble Alojoba Shampoo

I bought this guy before the conditioner with another lovely CVS coupon. Yes. Equally enjoyable and worthy of it's own place on the top 5.

#1 My Cricut Gypsy

Granted, this device has a lot of room to grow technologically, but it is for sure my new favorite thing. It is my adult DS. It allows me to scrapbook and create cards on the go. I am in love. C got this for me for my birthday and I was too intimidated to play with it for a while. Finally, thanks to some YouTubing and other research, I did it and we have been joined at the hip ever since. It is hard for me to leave it at home when I go to work. But, the kids aren't allowed to bring DS's, so I shouldn't bring my Gypsy.

Thankful

2010-11-10T11:52:00.000-08:00

I thought I'd have a little more time for my scrapbooking and such when I began working part-time but that has not been the case. Working for C. as well requires it's own time. Some days are busier than others but there's always things to do! I'm not complaining; I love my life. But, a girl can always wish for a few more minutes (hours?!?) in the day for crafting. :)

So, it took me several days to complete these cards. This was due to being busy, as well as not being the smartest going about the project.

I was trying a new technique of layering cardstock to make a faux-chipboard effect. This went fine. I do like the dimension it creates without having to purchase deep cut blades for my Cricut, or make multiple cuts.

I made two of these cards: one for my friend E. who took me to a delicious winery/bluegrass a couple of weeks ago. It was a wonderful event and just happened to fall on a beautiful day. The other is for my friend K. who is basically my scrapbooking guru and inspiration.

Colored Paper: Creative Memories

Kraft Card Stock: Recollections (Michael's)

Wine Stamp: Crafty Secrets

White Gel Pen: Gelly Roll (Michael's)

The Griddle

2010-10-31T11:14:00.000-07:00

We felt so blessed and loved by the presence and presents of our family and friends at our wedding. We received some gift cards to complete our registry and one of the things we ended up purchasing was Panini/Griddle Press by Cuisinart.

We thought for a while before getting it because we're not people you would really call "gadget" people and we wanted to make sure we would use it.

I can say now I'm happy we purchased it. While we don't use it everyday, I would say we use it weekly and it has pluses that you just can't get on a regular pan (and obviously you can't do panini and whatnot without a panini press :)).

     Exhibit A:

     You can open this baby up to be a full size griddle for pancake. This way all those pancakes are ready at once and you're not either running to the pan to flip while you're trying to eat or letting the finished ones get cold. My only side note here would be that I had a coupon for a non-Bisquick pancake mix and it was a total fail. Stay loyal to Bisquick! Or go from scratch. But, this was not the griddle's fault. Only my own. And the coupon. F.

      The other things we've made with this thus far is bacon (I say stick to the regular pan - the clean up on this thing is not worth it) and panini sandwiches (totally quick and worth it!).

Currently Humming in my Head: A Joyful Heart Is Good Medicine

Currently Craving: Another bite of Boston Creme Pie. Yum.

Currently Dreading: Report Cards

Cucumber Tonic: My New Favorite

2010-10-30T09:00:00.000-07:00

I'm trying a new cookbook which I will leave unnamed right now but I can say it has been a success thus far. The biggest hit for me would have to be: The Cucumber Tonic. Yum.

a couple very thin slices of cucumber, shaved lengthwise
tonic water
lime juice
ice cubes

Fill glasses with ice. Attach (or simply place in glasses) two or three slices of cucumber each. Add a dash of lime juice (about a teaspoon) to each glass. Fill glass with tonic water.

Yum. So refreshing. I didn't even need my wine.

This next scene is what you get now that my doctor has said I need to watch my cholesterol! We were making filet Mignon with sauteed mushrooms but I'm not supposed to have red meat anymore. So, C had his filet pan and I had my chicken pan.

Mushrooms cookin' away.

Everything turned out delicious. It was served over Wilted Garlic Spinach. The end.

Croptoberfest

2010-10-24T05:14:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, we had our October Crop at S.'s house. The focus was making Christmas cards and it was a good, successful time. I'm hesitant to post them here in case a reader is a recipient of one of them, but a few won't hurt.

In other news, good progress in being made in the man cave. I'll post pictures soon. Whenever I go down there, I can't believe the floor used to be dirt. Then, they poured concrete, laid the tile, and voila. Unbelievable to me.

As I'm typing this, I'm also trying to upload and edit some photos. Photoshop is a tedious process for me. I really hope to take a digital photo class next semester at Mason with some leftover scholarship money. It would most likly greatly decrease my desire to push this computer off the desk right now because it is being so slow editing the photos. There must me an easier way that I'm unaware of! :)

http://www.afloralkeepsake.com/

Last but not least, I got to pick up my preserved bouquet yesterday. I'm so thankful and I love it. I want to get married again. To C. again. And, I want to live vicariously through bride's to be. I'm crazy. But, I'm so excited to see my friends Beth and Diana get married this fall!

For dinner tonight: Soup from the Women's Bean Project C. keeps biting his lip over and over again therefore soups are the way to go.

Currently Reading: Try by Lily Burana. Still. Can't get into it. Should abandon but since I brought the book I just can't. Must. Finish.

Lentil Scones and Green Curry

2010-09-29T03:46:00.000-07:00

     These two recipes may not sound entirely appetizing to the general population. But, I had been itching to try the lentil scones for quite some time. I rocked them out last night and made the icing this morning. Let me tell you: It was a total fail. Gross. It was probably something I did, because every other recipe I've tried from NoMeatAthlete's website has been DELICIOUS. But, this is one I won't try again. Perhaps I should have known when I saw the words "lentil" and "scone" in the same recipe title.

     On the other hand, Green Curry was a flippin' success.

Jamie Oliver's Green Curry

Yet another Jamie Oliver recipe I had a major fail last night when I accidentally used jalapenos instead of green chilies. We had to go out to dinner instead. But, with the correct ingredients and determination, last night was a major win.

Jamie Oliver Fan Club

2010-09-22T13:44:00.000-07:00

Someday I'll stop writing Jamie Oliver posts but for now, I just can't. I'm having a little Jamie Oliver obsession. For example, did you know he and his wife just had a baby??!?? Well, they did, and she did it natch. Wow. I admire.

Anyway, last night we (and I use the term "we" loosely because C. was nervous to try another Food Revolution recipe after the oatmeal incident) gave another recipe a go.

Shrimp and Avocado with an Old-School Marie Rose Sauce

C. was skeptical not only because it was from the same cookbook as the oatmeal, but also because he's not a big fan of avocado and for some reason feels that shrimp are an ingredient that should only be used in appetizers. However, my love of avocado and sprouts overruled. And, probably the fact that we'd already bought the shrimp.

Anyway, this recipe was mega easy. And, we BOTH loved it. It felt healthy and I didn't feel stuffed afterwards. I felt like I had room for ice cream. And, I ate some. So, maybe that cancels out the healthy, but whatev, everything was delicious. Take a gander.

On the workout front, today is a "rest" day so there'll be no gym for me. This is a good thing because it's Back to School Night!

For now, I'm off to hunt for some canned pumpkin on my way to BTSN. It's all the rage right now since it's just been put back on the shelves for fall. Happy fall!

One Hundred Days of Health: Update Numero Dos

2010-09-21T12:16:00.000-07:00

I did end up rocking out the Jamie Oliver Food Revolution cookbook this morning that my dear friend R. gave me before my wedding. We had the Blackberry Apple Oatmeal, which I found yummy and it kept me full all morning. We'll be honest here and share that C.was not a fan and did not finish his bowl. Alas, you can please all the people some of the time, and some of the people all the time, but you cannot please all the people all the time. :) I loved it. What he didn't care for were the blackberries, which were mega sour, and not the fault of Jamie Oliver. I look forward to trying the other versions he has in there, particularly bananas and cinnamon.

     I was just really pleased though in general with this cookbook because it is full of pictures which is priceless to me. It fits in nicely with my current health regime and is not too out there that C. won't eat it. Well, I shouldn't speak too soon. But, I'm planning on doing another recipe for dinner which I think he'll enjoy more. Will let you know how it goes!

     On the workout schedule for today is: 7 x 400s. I'm feeling kind of trapped right now in the office awaiting an insurance audit - how exciting! - but I hope to get to the gym sooner than later. I've been following Hal Higdon's 5k training schedule like I did for my half marathon.

    Love always!

One Hundred Days of Health: Update Numero Uno

2010-09-20T12:57:00.000-07:00

So far so good kiddos.

I did a practice 5K today and while it was not my best time, it was completed and that was the goal. I ran as school was beginning past two elementary schools hoping to pass two teachers that left my school last year and catch up, but it was a long shot and did not occur. Maybe another day.

I also ran across a fun, new, motivating website yesterday: www.dailymile.com. That helped too.

Lastly, I'm planning on making dinner out of my Jaime Oliver cookbook which will hopefully prove to be delicious, healthy and excited. Pics to come.

Love always.

One Hundred Days of Health

2010-09-19T12:32:00.000-07:00

So, today I began my venture into a little journey I'm titling "One Hundred Days of Health".

Last night I went to the Rush concert at Jiffy Lube Live. It was a great experience; one that I'm happy I had the opportunity to attend and check off the Bucket List as they say. My brother-in-law hooked us up with some amazing tickets. I hadn't listened to Rush much until I learned we were attending the concert and began studying up. While it is not the kind of music I typically listen to, I was thoroughly impressed by them. They are true musicians. I' m interested in learning more about them. I got some hott guitar pics at the show, my swag.

Back to my original point: Despite the awesomeness of this concert, their were some rough people there. Rush has been around for nearly 30 years, and I'm pretty certain some of these lovelies I witnessed had been partying that hard, that long. I won't go into detail, but let's just say these dearies put the wildest Jimmy Buffett fans to shame, to say the least. I don't wanna be doing that when I'm 50. I ain't judgin' no one - I just think I'll feel better leading a healthier lifestyle. Now, I'm would consider myself a "party girl", but as I've mentioned in the past, I do have a special place in my heart for a good glass of wine. I'm not saying during OHDH I'm giving up wine, but I'm just striving to make healthier choices.

Healthy Choice #1: I made this delicious lunch today. It was a veggie pita containing cucumbers, sprouts, hummus and other deliciousness.

Healthy Choice #2: I've decided to run in my 2nd annual Run with the Eagles 5K. I've got my training plan and I'm gearing to go. Keep me accountable kiddos!

Okay, off to momma's birthday!!!

PS. I will be eating birthday cake. There've got to be some exceptions!

Summer Saradise Contest

2010-08-26T04:15:00.000-07:00

     My friends, as you may or may not know, I am a teacher. An ESOL teacher to be exact. And, while I may be obligated to teach a touch of math here or a lick of social studies there, I would mainly consider my area of expertise to be language arts. I've always been a reader.  I remember the day I learned to write my name (not a huge feat as it only has three letters but still exciting). I was at the dining room table and my mom was teaching me on the bulletin from the church service that day. Once I got it, I kept practicing it until nothing else was legible on the bulletin. I had covered it entirely with my new scripted name. Oh, the vanity began at a young age.
     Okay, anyway, the moral of this story is I like to support these literary contests. While the books are still most likely above my students reading levels, they're still geared towards young adults for the most part. My kiddos will be there before I know it.

     So, here's a fun one!

Saradise ARC Extravaganza

Check it out!

Love always.

Berry Smoothie

2010-08-12T12:58:00.000-07:00

In case you were worrying, I am feeling much better :) My poison ivy is fading and my husband sprayed our yard with copious amounts of weed killer so hopefully it does the trick. And, I'm going to take a little break from yard work. Perhaps this skin irritation was a blessing in disguise.

In other exciting news, I finished my second day of subbing at Summer School, otherwise known at "Jump Start". It's only a half day and it flew by. It was so good to see dear kiddos again.

So, today I'm going to post another one of my favorite, favorite recipes. I encountered it on No Meat Athlete. I've linked him before - I've been so thankful for his pre-race training recipes and this is where my friend CP found the Thrive book. I just altered the recipe to make it convenient for me in terms of what I have in my fridge.

Berry Smoothie

Yum and Yum

First, I head to my fridge and see what kind of juice I have on hand. Today, it was Blueberry Cranberry juice. Add 1 cup to your blender.

Then, I head over to the freezer (or fruit bowl) and see what kind of berries I have going on. Today, it was blueberry. Add 1 cup to the blender.

Next, I add 2 Tbl. of flax oil (I do always have this in my fridge although it may seem weird), 2/3 cup of nonfat yogurt (plain, or any berry kind will do) and last but not least, 1 scoop of vanilla protein powder. The vanilla flavored protein powder is what makes it yum. If your grocery doesn't have it, you can find the flax oil and vanilla flavored protein powder and a local health food store. My protein powder is from Trader Joe's and the flax oil is from Healthway.

Finally, blend it up! And, enjoy. As recommended by No Meat Athlete I sometimes add a sprinkle of cinnamon on top which is delish for digestion.

Berry Smoothie Recipe

1 cup orange juice

2/3 cup nonfat plain or berry yogurt

1 scoop vanilla protein powder

1 cup berries

2 Tbsp flaxseed oil

4 ice cubes

Blend and enjoy!