Showing posts with label halfling. Show all posts
Showing posts with label halfling. Show all posts

Wednesday, December 1, 2010

Hobbit-ish Thoughts On Motherhood (3 1/2 Days In)

Good Morning Humble Readers...

Where to begin? 

Right now my brain is still foggy and more than a bit love-addled, so I apologize if this post makes no sense at all. 

Our precious Halfling, who for privacy's sake will hereafter be referred to as Ginevra (bonus points if you can name the literary reference), has altered our life immensely and so much for the better.  Even in the midst of a postpartum emotional meltdown or frustrations over my lack of breast milk, I wouldn't give a single moment up. 

Words fail me when it comes to how I feel just now... at least I can't seem to string them together in anything resembling an articulate manner.  So, what follows is just a sampling of words and phrases that describe my mental, physical, and emotional state from the last few days...

Tired 
Immensely Joyful
Frustration
So Hungry
Thankful
Adoring
Losing All Sense of Time
Amazed
Sore
Limited
Humbled
Teary
Patient
Irritated
Defensive
Protective
Dehydrated
Uncomfortable
Happy
Isolated
Afraid
Congested
Out-of-Body
Numb
Over-stimulated
Victorious
Exhausted
Failing
Heart-bursting
Awed
Full of Wonder
Swollen
Beyond Blessed

*****
I want to send a special thank you to Kristin for looking after my corner of the blogosphere and introducing our Ginevra to you all!  Thank you my friend! 

*****
The birth story will come soon.  I need to get my thoughts and feelings together in one place about the whole experience.  Thank you for all your well wishes, good thoughts and prayers... it means so much to me to be able to share this with you all!

Wednesday, November 24, 2010

Hobbit-ish Potpurri: The Countdown Is On!

Hey Humble Readers...

So, remember all that stuff I got done on Monday?  LOL!  Well, apparently I overdid it.  Yesterday was a complete write off in terms of getting my big ol' backside off the couch.  My energy levels yesterday allowed for exactly two things... cooking supper and going to see Harry Potter. 

*****
Harry Potter was great!  It's been at least a year since I reread the book, so there were a few spots where I was left going 'huh?', but overall, I thought that they did a good job of it.  The director definitely caught the desperation of the whole situation.  There were a couple of jacka$$es in front of us who were killing themselves laughing at the end (and if you've seen it, you know the part I mean)... while I'm trying not to cry.  Funniest thing... there was a spot where I ended up being startled pretty good (yes I jumped) by something on the screen, and apparently the Halfling got freaked out too.  He/she jumped inside me and then couldn't chill out.  Hilarious!

*****
My mom is on the road today, driving 12+ hours by herself, through the mountains so that she can be here with us tomorrow.  I would greatly appreciate any prayers and good thoughts you could send her way, for safety and easy travels.  Thankfully, the road conditions look good, and there isn't much snow expected on her route today. 

*****
Today is my day to get the last of the last things done.  I'm going to finish decorating the house for Christmas (it's never taken me this long before!), going to get a haircut this afternoon, hit the grocery store, and do some tidying up around the house.  Tonight I just want to relax with my Beloved and not obsess about things that aren't done. 

*****
I know this isn't a great attitude to have, but considering that I've been pretty good through this GD mess, I'm letting myself have a few things today that I haven't allowed in a long time.  Chips, a donut (not a Krispy Kreme, but as close as I can get) is scheduled for dessert tonight, and I have a Co.ke Zero in hand as I write this. 

*****
Barring some sort of crazy rush on the L&D ward in the next 18 hours, this is my last post before our Halfling joins us.  I hope all of you south of the border have a wonderful Thanksgiving!  And be safe if you go out on Black Friday... no shopping casualties allowed!  :)

Tuesday, November 23, 2010

Milestones (Part the Third): 400 Posts

Good Morning Humble Readers...

mile·stone

n.
- A stone marker set up on a roadside to indicate the distance in miles from a given point.
- An important event, as in a person's career, the history of a nation, or the advancement of knowledge in a field; a turning point.
The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition Copyright © 2006 by Houghton Mifflin Company.

It's been just over two years since I wrote my first post on this blog. 

At that time, I had no idea about the ALI community.  I had no followers.  I hadn't connected with anyone in the blogosphere.  It was a week after my first miscarriage and I just needed a space to pour out the grief and pain I was feeling. 

I wrote a couple of posts at that time, and then let my little hobbit-hole languish for two or three months, until I found myself in exactly the same place... dealing with the grief of another miscarriage.  A friend from the ttc message board I frequented encouraged me to go back to my blog... to write, to connect, to tell my story.  So I did... and am I ever glad.

In this 'place' I have found hope, courage, friendship, support, tears, and laughter.  I hope that I have offered the same. 

It seems fitting to me that I am hitting this particular milestone now, just a couple of days before we will meet this long awaited, immensely longed for an prayed for Halfling.

Each of these 400 posts represents a step on this road... whether it's been a cycle update, rant, show & tell, meme, ICLW intro, recipe, or just some random ramblings. 

This journey doesn't end with the arrival of our precious Halfling, but it is a very important place on this road.  Who knows where the next 100, 400, or even 1000 posts will lead? 

All that is certain is that I know that I am not journeying alone.  And for that, and for all of you, I am incredibly thankful!

Saturday, November 20, 2010

The Nursery: The Grand Tour

Howdy Humble Readers...

I know it's been an incredibly long time in coming, but today I welcome you into the Halfling's space.  There's still one or two things that we need to get, but we are pretty much ready for this little one to make his/her appearance.

I feel like there should be a drumroll or something...

First up, this is where the Halfling will be sleeping for the first few months (in our room as you can tell by the red).  This cradle has been the bed for all the C family grandchildren.  It hasn't been used in more than 20 years.

The next couple of shots are from the doorway. 


The three framed prints are from Etsy.  The lady I ordered them from graciously doctored up the colours for me so they fit with our colour scheme.


The book cases are still a little empty, but I know they will fill up over time.  The Halfling is so stocked for stuffies!  Especially sweet elephant stuffies... like the ones that Kristin made!  (aren't they adorable?  Thank you so much!)  And of course, there has to be a teeny tiny Mario Bros presence... just a little one. :)



I adore this quote!  I got this from Etsy, too.  The vinyl clings were challenging to get started, but so worth it when they were done.  (even if I did fubar one of the letters)  This is above the dresser.

Here's the Halfling's dresser, which is slowly filling with the sweetest of outfits!  My MIL and one of my BIL painted this and the change table for us.  I think they did a pretty great job.  That funky green egg is actually a piggy bank (minus the piggy of course) and was the inspiration for the accent colour.  I've had that sitting in a closet for more than two years. 

Okay, so I didn't iron the curtains before we hung them.  I'm terrible.  I'm still planning on steaming them at some point... but isn't the colour fabulous?  The change table was a tv stand that we added legs to.  The sliding cupboard doors are perfect for hiding away all our cloth diapers. 

The floating puff balls in those perfect shades of green are also from Etsy, as is the elephant vinyl cling.  The puff balls had to be puffed by hand (they came folded flat) and let me tell you, that was a *fun* night!   The crib, with it's fixed up leg, and the adorable bedding (thank you so much Callista for being my go between for that!). 

And my last Etsy purchase... the diaper bag!  Since we couldn't afford to get the one I was drooling over, I decided to go with something that my Beloved wouldn't be totally embarrassed carrying.  And whether we have a he-halfling or a she-halfling, they will have no choice but to be part of the Rider Nation.   The bag was incredibly reasonably priced ($25), and included the personalization and a changing pad. 


So, there you have it.  The nursery... all done and waiting for it's little occupant.  When it was finished, I just stood in the middle of the room and bawled.  It's still so surreal that there is going to be a little person to make use of this room... soon!

Friday, November 19, 2010

Blog Challenge Day 30: A Letter to the Halfling

Howdy Humble Readers...

Today is the last of the blog challenge assignments, and I am supposed to talk about my hope for the future.  I couldn't think of a better way to do that than to take this opportunity to put into words my hopes for this little person I get to meet soon. 

My Precious Little One...

As I feel you move within me, I wonder who you are, who you will become.  I wonder what you will look like, which side of the family you will take after.  I wonder, will you be logical and mellow like your Daddy, or will you be creative and ruled by your emotions, like me?  Or will you be someone completely different?  Whoever you are, I know you will be amazing. 

Where do I begin to articulate my hopes for you?

I think my biggest hope for you is that you will have joy in your life.  Not just happiness, but true joy.  Joy doesn't rely on things around you going right or being perfect, it's a state of mind and an element of faith.  Joy persists in the face of trouble, and doesn't fade when the road gets rough.  Having joy in your heart doesn't mean you won't have pain, but it will help see you through. 

I hope you never feel alone, that you know you will always have someone to love you, to help you through the hard times and celebrate with you in the good times. 

I hope that you look at this world with eyes open to mystery and wonder.  There is astounding greatness all around us, in people and our variety of cultures, in the physical world around us, and in the things that we can't see.  I hope that you have a place in your heart to celebrate and contribute to the diversity that makes our world wonderful.

I hope you have courage.  Courage to acknowledge and face your fears.  There is no shame in being afraid, and courage allows us to work through our fear and come out stronger on the other side. 

I hope that you understand, someday, that your Father and I are scared and humbled at the prospect of raising you.  I hope that you know in your heart how much we have longed for you and prayed for you.  I hope that you never have reason to doubt our love for you. 

I hope you never ever lack for hope.

Love,
Mommy

*****
Nursery pics will be posted tomorrow! 

Thursday, November 11, 2010

Blog Challenge Day 22: A Website & Some Hobbit-ish Potpurri

Hey Humble Readers!

Today's assignment is to share a website.  Of course I can't give you just one, so instead I'm going to give you three of the sites under my 'cooking' tab on my favourites list. 

AllRecipes.com - the ultimate in cooking websites!  If you can't find a recipe to work for you there, then you hate food.  It's got great articles and teaching videos too!

ThePioneerWoman.com - Ree just rocks!  She publishes new recipes a few times a week (all done step-by-step), does amazing giveaways (Le Cruset, KitchenAid, etc), and is hilarious!  She also posts about her day to day life, homeschooling, and photography. 

Tasty Kitchen - An off-shoot of Pioneer Woman, this is a great recipe sharing community site.  While it doesn't have the breadth of recipes that AllRecipes has, you get some great insights into the creators of the recipes. 

I also really dig the Sp.lenda, Kra.ft, Campb.ells, and Food Network sites.  Do you have any favourite recipe sites?

*****
Today has been productive for us.  Beloved was off because it's Remembrance Day (see today's earlier post), so we were lazy this morning, but then got going after lunch.  Beloved installed the car seat (OMG!) and then we hit Wa.lmart to pick up some pics I had sent for printing, and Home De.pot for the hardware we need to finish the Halfling's room.  Once we got home, I started our supper (Ribs... yum!  The sauce recipe is one that I will NEVER EVER give away.  I would get killed by half my family).  Beloved is working on the bookcase that still needed to be painted, and I framed a bunch of pics.  I need to do some housework yet, but I'm feeling good about what we got accomplished.  My goal is to have my to do list done by the end of the weekend, so that I can do a little baking next week and then just rest.

*****
I packed my hospital bag last night.  And a separate bag for Beloved (change of clothes, snacks, etc).  I would like to get the diaper bag packed for the baby tonight, but we'll see.  The bags are by the door now, just in case.  Talk about a dose of reality.

*****
The braxton-hicks have come back, just as I suspected, with a vengance.  Last night I tried to stand up from the couch and I got hit with one that knocked me back on my butt.  They've been pretty intense ever since. 

*****
The weather here on the flatland is still holding, but they are predicting snow starting next week.  I'm still crossing my fingers, tho.  I want the snow to stay away for another few weeks. 

Friday, October 22, 2010

I Just Realized

Hey Humble Readers...

One month from today, we could be meeting this little Halfling.  Dr. U is still planning on inducing me a week early, so that means sometime around November 22nd! 

Hokey dinah!

I need to get off my butt and get stuff done!

Monday, October 11, 2010

Week 33: Thankfulness

Howdy Humble Readers!

I know that those of you south of the border (and in Alaska) are celebrating Columbus Day, but for us it's Thanksgiving.  My Beloved and I are having a quiet Turkey day, just the two of us (he's over on his computer gaming), kind of odd for us.  I'm used to cooking for a bunch of people...  I'm still cooking a ton of food today, but most of it is going into the freezer for next month.  If you've been reading this week, you know I'm trying  couple of new recipes today (Maple Pumpkin Cheesecake is in the fridge, and the Cornbread Sausage Dressing is just hanging out, ready to be warmed up while the turkey rests later). 

Sadly, my efforts in the kitchen today have been hampered by a combination of BH contractions and terrible bloating/gas/constipation.  My Beloved has really stepped up, tho, and he has done all my dishes.  He totally rocks.  The turkey (named George) is finally in the oven and can relax for a while before I have to start basting and making the sauce for the cheesecake. 

Today, I am thankful for so many things, for my Beloved and his presence in my life.  I'm thankful that he has a good stable job in the midst of this challenging economic time.  I'm thankful for our families, friends, and their influence in our lives.  But this year, I am particularly thankful for this little Halfling and the hope that he/she has brought to my life. 

How far along? 33w0d

Maternity clothes? Oh yeah... altho, I can still fit into one pair of my pre-pregnancy jeans.  I wore them all day yesterday.  Crazy!

Body Oddities? Let's see... bloating is back, as is the constipation.  I've had more than my usual share of headaches this week, but they have been mostly sinus/allergy related.  Dry skin is over the top too.  And the continued weight-loss (I've never lost weight this easily before!).

Sleep?  It seems like I'm in a pattern... two nights of crappy sleep, one good night.  I'm am getting better with managing my energy levels tho.  I make sure to take my naps when I need them, and then I get up and do a few things when I'm still fresh. 

Best moment this week?  The mailman was the source of a lot of fun this week.  The diaper bag I ordered arrived.  I can't wait to show you guys pics.  It's absolutely nothing like the one I had originally wanted to get, but I love it just the same.  And my Beloved is pretty stoked about it too.  And there was another package that arrived that I can't wait to show you... I'm planning on sharing it on Thursday for Show & Tell.

Worst moment? Go back and read Saturday's post.  That about sums it all up.  (I obviously found a corn bread mix tho... at a sugar free store of all places!)

Movement? Yup... I'm actually wondering when I'm going to experience the slow down that all the books and email updates keep telling me to expect.  The Halfling really likes to wake up and move around when I get up for my 2am pee.  It takes me forever to fall back to sleep when he/she is moving around like a monkey.

Food cravings?  I found the most incredible sugar-free, crustless chocolate cheesecake at a store that specializes in foods for people with allergies and special diets.  I have been obsessing about it every day, but I've been good and limited myself to one slice with dinner (it only has 13g of carbs!) so that it doesn't mess with my blood sugar numbers.  Yay!

Rings? I think they just might stay on for the duration.

Gender? Not going to find out, but I think it's a boy.  It looks like the poll is almost a tie!

Intense Dreams?  Not so many intense dreams, but every time I wake up, I have that feeling like I've just interupted a dream. 

Medical Concerns? High blood pressure (on 50mg Trandate/Lobetalol, 3 times a day... now getting my bp checked every week at the hospital before my OB appointment. They have the right size cuff for this plus size gal), Gestational Diabetes (all my numbers are good most of the time, except for my waking numbers), on prescription Zan.tac for heartburn. I will probably be induced in week 39... holy crap, that's soon!

What I miss?  I miss the social aspect of work.  I've never been a person who likes talking on the phone, so I'm feeling the lack of social interaction.

What I look forward to? Baby shower on Friday night, prenatal classes on Saturday!

Emotional State?  Really varies, depending on my energy level. 

Monday, October 4, 2010

Check.. Check.. Is this Thing On?

Hey Humble Readers...

Are you still out there? 

I know it's been a heck of a long time.  Two weeks since my last post. 

I wish I could say it's because my computer had died, or that we had crappy internet service.  But nope, it's just been plain old exhaustion.  The last two weeks of work just about killed me.  I was falling asleep on my lunch breaks.  I barely had the energy to get to work and to my doctor's appointments... let alone spending time online.  My poor Beloved has put up with a groggy hobbit-wife, and has hardly anything homecooked for days and days. 

I'm sorry I haven't been around.  Now that I'm done working, I'm hoping that I will see a bit of an increase in my energy levels again.  I slept almost all morning today, and I'm actually feeling a bit more human. 

Stories that need telling...

The GD GD: getting better, but it's taking a lot of insulin to do it.  My before meal sugar levels are pretty good (except for breakfast, although it's getting better too), and most days I'm doing pretty good with it.  I've had very few meltdowns about it lately.  My stomach is showing a lot of not so pretty bruising from the needles, but it's the easiest place for me to inject. 

The Nursery:  still in progress.  We now have all the decor bits I ordered from Esty, and half the furniture that needs to be painted is at my MIL's house waiting to be sanded and refreshed. 

The Ultrasound:  Got a good peak at him/her today.  I'll post the pics tomorrow.  Got to see little waving hands and it looks like the Halfling has my nose (poor kid!).  He/She is head down, facing to the right.  His/Her hands were in the way so we didn't get a lot of really good pics, but there's one pretty good one.

Pregnancy in general:  not too bad.  Other than tired-ness, things seem to be going okay.  I'll be doing my week 32 update tomorrow sometime.  Tomorrow we have our tour at the hospital, and we start prenatal classes on the 13th. 

I hope you all are well.  It will take me some time to catch up, but I wanted you all to know I'm alive up here on the flatland. 

Monday, September 20, 2010

Week 30: Where Has The Time Gone?

Greetings Humble Readers...

I'm sorry that I wasn't around over the weekend.  It was a tad busy, even though I wasn't at work, and well, I think it's okay to take your birthday off from everything... just my humble opinion.  :)

So, yeah, I missed a birthday post... again.  And yeah, I missed my blogoversary post too.  I can't believe I've been at this for two years now.  Amazing.  I spent some time re-reading some of my posts from the beginning and it's amazing how far we have come in the last two years. 

We had a great weekend (farmer's market, dinner out, window shopping for baby stuff), with some not so great moments interspersed (doing battle with our cell phone service provider, realizing that our finances took an even bigger hit than we thought last month). 

So, the point of this post?  Here we go...

How far along? 29w0d

Maternity clothes? Of course, but only having 3 pairs of pants that are suitable for work is getting a little old.

Body Oddities?  Where to begin?  Ummm... let's see... there's the ridiculous amount of hair on my belly, the gassiness, constipation, dry itchy skin, Braxton Hicks contractions... oh, and the 'girls' have officially begun leaking (not much but enough to freak me out!).  One thing I'm thankful for though, I realized last week that it's been months since I've had a real zit.  My rosacea has gotten worse, but no zits!  And I have discovered that baby brain has a directly affects my dyslexia... I've forgotten how to spell, and I get things backwards constantly, EVERYTHING, not just my usual suspects. 

Sleep? Still hit and miss.  I think the fatigue is just really starting to get to me.

Best moment this week?  The dessert I had with my birthday dinner.  I let myself be a very bad girl and had a slice of cookies and cream cake (chocolate brownie layers with oreo cream and chocolate mousse).  It was to die for!

Worst moment?  Working out just how broke we are going to be soon.  First victim of the belt tightening?  The groovy diaper bag.  There are more important things we need.  I'll find something cheaper that will work. 

Movement? The Halfling is active at more random times of the day.  He/She moves around when I wake up to go pee in the middle of the night, whenever I eat, whenever I take my insulin, when I'm just sitting around, when I'm walking... all. the. time!

Food cravings?  What I wouldn't give for a tall glass of ice cold milk!  I want it all the time.  I've never been a milk drinker, but now that it messes with my blood sugar it's all I want.

Rings? I think they just might stay on for the duration.

Gender? Not going to find out, but I think it's a boy.

Intense Dreams?  None that I remember this week.  I know I've been dreaming a lot, because I wake up with that weird feeling that I have just been dreaming, but they disappear too quick to recall.

Medical Concerns? High blood pressure (on 50mg Trandate/Lobetalol, 3 times a day... bp was a little higher than normal this past week, but work has been super stressful), Gestational Diabetes (closer to getting it under control), on prescription Zan.tac for heartburn.

What I miss?  This is going to sound weird, but I miss being able to weigh myself.  I admit I am a scale junky, and weigh myself far more often than I should.  But I can't now, because I can't see the numbers on the scale.  It's so strange.

What I look forward to? Meeting this little person who's been kicking the tar out of my insides, MATERNITY LEAVE!

Emotional State?  Better, I think.  Don't get me wrong, I can still cry at the drop of a hat, but it's been less related to the numbers on my glucometer. 

Ok, I really need to go get caught up with all of you...

Thursday, September 16, 2010

Tears & Laughter

Good Morning Humble Readers...

It's been an up and down kind of day already. 

The Down:

My day started this morning earlier than I would have liked, but the pain in my hips is making it hard for me to stay asleep all night.  So I was awake before 5am again this morning... ugh!!  Then, when I tested my blood sugar, it was higher than it's been in a week.  I ended up bawling in my kitchen (again!) because this whole thing is just so damned frustrating.  And when I say bawling, I mean hiccup sobbing.  I feel like an idiot now for letting the number on that stupid little screen dictate how I feel about myself... it's worse than a scale.

The Up:

It's Thursday, so that means it's a doctor day.  My appointment with Dr. U was at 9.  I got to see the Halfling again... he/she is now in a head down position, so we weren't able to see a whole lot, but the heart rate is good, and baby is growing.  As of this week, my fundal height is measuring a bit ahead, and I really feel that my belly has popped out a lot more in the last few days.  Dr. U was great about my blood sugars, and increased my insulin again a bit.  I told him about my morning, and how I feel like all I'm doing is barely treading water, but not making any real progress.  He told me that at this point in the pregnancy, I am at my most susceptible to even the smallest fluctuations in hormone levels (which will affect my blood sugar) and reminded me that we are going to be playing catch up for the rest of the pregnancy.  When I expressed my concern at how much insulin I'm taking, he told me not to worry.  He's had patients who were at double what I'm at now, at the same point in a pregnancy.  He did warn me that my insulin will likely end up a lot higher by the end.  He also told me that he's very happy with how serious I'm taking this, but that I need to ease up on myself.  Have I mentioned how much I appreciate him?

So, my morning started with tears... and thankfully it was on it's way to getting better.  I left Dr. U's office feeling better about things. 

And that's when God decided I needed a little laugh. 

As I was walking down the hallway and out of Dr. U's building, I felt my underwear starting to slide down my backside.  My maternity jeans are still a little loose in the back end, so they weren't really helping to keep things in place.  I got in the elevator by myself, so I took a moment to adjust... but I wasn't able to get things situated properly before the doors opened again.   So, I was waiting outside the building for my cab, and I could feel them inching down my fanny again.  By the time my cab arrived, they had completely slipped off my hips.  Trying to walk to the cab, and then from the cab to my front door (including up a flight of stairs) was hilarious.  I guess I should have invested in maternity undies after all. 

Monday, September 13, 2010

Week 29: Uninspired

Hey Humble Readers...

I'm running a bit behind these days.  It's been a long week already (went back to work on Saturday) and I'm finding my energy is just tapped these days.  I will get caught up with you all soon. 

Thanks to everyone who commented on my last post... I think I have found the diaper bag I want.  Now, can any of you help me find some basic green crib bedding?  For under $300?  That's your mission!

Here's the update...

How far along? 29w0d

Maternity clothes? Yup, no more bella bands for me. 

Body Oddities? Oh so freakin' gassy!  It's embarassing.  Fatigue is overwhelming at times.  I don't know how much of it is the pregnancy and how much of it is the GD.

Sleep? Not terrible, but I still tire easily.  It feels like my sleep isn't as effective as it should be.

Best moment this week?  Being on vacation for most of it.  It was great to be able to take the time to do what I needed to around the house. 

Worst moment?  I've had some more incredible round ligament pain.  There was one day that I almost fell over when I stood up because it was so bad.

Movement?  I have a very busy little Halfling.  With the exception of today, he/she has been all over the place.  (I had to take some tylenol last night after work, and I think that made the Halfling a little sluggish this morning)

Food cravings? Not craving a whole lot these days.  Just obsessing about the things I can't have.  I've planned my first meal after coming home from the hospital after delivery.  Sushi, a slice of chocolate cheesecake, a venti light ice non-fat chai latte, and maybe a glass of Siegerebe (my favourite wine).

Rings?  I think they just might stay on for the duration.

Gender? Not going to find out, but I think it's a boy.

Intense Dreams? Not many this week, at least not many I remember.  A couple of nights ago I dreamed about being in labour.  Not the full on pushing, but sort of starting out. 

Medical Concerns? High blood pressure (on 50mg Trandate/Lobetalol, 3 times a day... bp holding steady at 130-ish over 70-ish), Gestational Diabetes (closer to getting it under control), on prescription Zan.tac for heartburn.

What I miss? being able to bend over and pick something up off the floor without worrying about if I can get back up.

What I look forward to? MATERNITY LEAVE!

Emotional State? Generally, this past week has been a good one.  But, today has been a rough one.  I am really feeling uninspired at work, and I don't want to be the kind of person who checks out mentally before they are done physically.  I'm tired, and I would much rather be doing things around the house to get ready for the baby. 

Thursday, September 9, 2010

Hobbit-ish Potpurri: Random Insanity

Good afternoon Humble Readers...

Thank you so much for you kind words on last night's post.  I really appreciate all your support.

*****
So, here's the current scene in the hobbit hole. 


That's my entryway and kitchen.  (And, yes, that's the crib in its box in my living room.)  Yikes!  As it turns out, it's likely going to be a two day job.  They had to chop our old furnace into pieces to get it out.  Thankfully, I was at a doctor appointment while that was going on.  Like everything in our condo, the furnace room is small, so it makes for cramped work spaces for the guys doing the work.   It will be great once it's done, but this sort of thing just sets me on edge.  The one installer is very talkative, so I've heard all about his BIL who lives with him and the drama that has taken over his house.

*****
As I mentioned, I had a doctor appointment today.  It was with Dr. B, my regular family doctor.  Dr. U is on vacation, but he didn't want me to go a week without a check in about my insulin and blood sugar numbers.  My interaction today with Dr. B reminded me why I wish that Dr. U was a regular GP and not just an OB.  Dr. B is not very supportive or encouraging about anything.  He made the usual "we need to make sure you don't gain too much weight" comment, even tho I am still below my pre-pregnancy weight by a pound and a half.  He took my blood pressure (130 over 70), and commented that "even though it appears normal" he's sure we'll have to increase the dosage on my meds sooner rather than later (he said that same thing when he first put me on the lobetalol, 10 weeks ago).  He was also fairly condescending about my blood sugar numbers.  He was "very concerned" that my fasting sugars are still so high (averaging 6.9-7-3 most days), and then clucked and hmmmm-ed over my food log.  Yes, I have allowed myself a few treats here and there, but for 90% of the time, I have been very good.  Anyway, the new plan is to add a morning shot of the long acting insulin to see if we can get my baseline blood sugars down, and then things should fall into place.  Should...

*****
I came across this article today... I think it would freak the tar out of me if I saw one of these speed bumps ahead of me. 

*****
On the menu tonight: Lazy cabbage roll casserole.  We'll see how it goes.  I've only ever made traditional cabbage rolls, so this seems a little odd.  But if it works, then I won't have to spend a ton of time burning my fingers making 'real' ones.

*****
Autumn is definitely here.  Trees are turning colour dramatically.  It's been rainy and brisk all week.  A year ago this time it was still hot and dry.  So much for my hopes of a late winter.  *sigh*  Oh well... it's been making me think of turkey and pumpkins... Thanksgiving is a month away (for those of us north of the 49th parallel) and I'm looking forward to cooking a big meal. 

Monday, September 6, 2010

Week 28: In the Home Stretch

Greetings Humble Readers!  Long time no talk! 

I can't believe the third trimester is here!  Wow!!

Sorry I haven't been around much.  I've been taking advantage of my last week of vacation combined with the long weekend to get some much needed household chores done.  The kitchen is now sparkly clean (walls included, thanks to the efforts of my Beloved), a few little fix-it things are fixed, and...

wait for it...

the nursery is cleaned out and painted!  Woohoo!  I think I might still have to do some touch-ups tomorrow, but it looks good.  I was concerned as I was putting on the first coat that the grey looked a little too blue, but now that it's got two coats and almost dry, it looks how I wanted it to.  Next on the nursery list is to paint the repurposed furniture we are going to be using.  We're going to be stopping by Ho.me Dep.ot tonight after dinner (I'm soooo not cooking tonight... mexican here we come!). 

Here's the update...

How far along? 28w0d


Maternity clothes?  Of course!  A couple of shirts are actually starting to show some wear... hmmm...

Body Oddities?  I think I'm finally showing more.  When I was painting today, I ended up getting more paint on my belly than any where else on my anatomy.  My hips hurt and crack/pop all the time.  Oh yeah, and apparently I have hit the wonderful flatulent part of this journey.  So special...

Sleep?   Still off and on... I was able to sleep in yesterday whicle is amazing. 

Best moment this week?  Ordering all the decor stuff we'll need for the nursery from Etsy.  It was so much fun!

Worst moment? When I realized that after this week off, I only have another three weeks of work, and about a month and a half worth of to-dos.   *Sigh*

Movement?  All the time.  I think he/she is turning a lot.  The Halfing has been transverse at a lot of my OB appointments, but I'm feeling movement in other areas now... more vertical. 

Food cravings?  Seafood, sushi, dairy

Rings?  Back on (and they look bee-yoo-tee-ful after getting prettified!)

Gender? Not going to find out, but I think it's a boy. Let me know what you think... there's a poll on the right.

Intense Dreams?  What is it with travel dreams?  Aside from the nightmares of death and loss, in all my dreams I'm travelling.  The other night, I was on my way to China with one of my staff... odd!

Medical Concerns? High blood pressure (on 50mg Trandate/Lobetalol, 3 times a day... bp holding steady at 130-ish over 70-ish), Gestational Diabetes (closer to getting it under control), on prescription Zan.tac for heartburn.

What I miss?  Being able to sleep on my stomach.  I miss this so much!

What I look forward to?  Being able to eat whatever I want, whenever I want it.  Getting the furniture painted.  Putting the crib together.

Emotional State?  I'm feeling pretty good.  More even keeled than I have been for the last few weeks.  I can still snap at the drop of a hat, but I'm not feeling so anxious or frustrated. 

Monday, August 30, 2010

Week 27: Moving Forward

Good Morning Humble Readers...

Today is going to be a good day!  I have decreed it to be so.  Good things are going to happen today.  First , and most important, it's my Beloved's birthday!  I am so thankful for his presence in my life.  He makes me a better person, he makes me laugh, and he loves me... how amazing is that?  Happy Birthday, my Love!

Today we are also getting a new stove.  I'll tell you more about it later, but I'm super excited!

How far along? 27w0d

Maternity clothes? I think I'm going to have to retire one of my pre-pregnancy pairs of pants.  The bella bands aren't doing the trick for holding them up any more.  But, I think that I'm going to be done with the bella bands soon anyway.  They tend to be uncomfortable by the end of a shift at work.

Body Oddities?  My right hip is particularly sore these days.  I'm not sure if I've done something, or if the Halfling is putting pressure on things.  Probably a bit of both.  Oddly enough, since I've been eating to lower my blood sugar, I haven't had a single IBS flare.  Hmmm... something to ponder.

Sleep? Still hit and miss.  I tend to be up early now, like 5 or 5:30.  It's unusual for me to be able to sleep later.  Of course, by 9am, I'm ready for a nap.

Best moment this week? When the crib finally arrived.

Worst moment? Thursday.  My first encounter with the insulin was definitely a shock, and was physically taxing and emotionally devastating. 

Movement? Good heavens... all the time!  It still surprises me every time, tho.  It's so surreal.

Food cravings? No real cravings.  More like obsessions.  I have always like chocolate, but this is over the top... I think about it all the time.

Rings? Off, but mostly because I sent them to be prettified and soldered. 

Gender? Not going to find out, but I think it's a boy.  Let me know what you think... there's a poll on the right.

Intense Dreams? They are the one thing, even over the GD, that I wish would go away.  I'm still dreaming of death, loss, and blood.  It's so awful.  Last night, I had a nightmare inside a nightmare.  I actully dreamed that I was dreaming that I lost the Halfling, and in the dream I woke up, told myself that it wasn't real, and that the baby would move soon.  Only he/she didn't.  *shudder*  It went downhill from there.

Medical Concerns? High blood pressure (on 50mg Trandate/Lobetalol, 3 times a day... bp holding steady at 130-ish over 70-ish), Gestational Diabetes (the thorn in my side), on prescription Zan.tac for heartburn.

What I miss? Being able to walk without waddling.

What I look forward to?  putting the crib together.

Emotional State?  Leveling out now, I think.  At least for the moment.

Wednesday, August 25, 2010

Hobbit-ish Potpurri: The Inevitable

Good Morning Humble Readers...

I hope all is well, where ever you are on this blue marble of ours.  Things here on the flatland are mostly mellow today.  The sun has decided to make a reappearance, and we are actually supposed to be seeing some summer-like weather again for a few days.  For the last week or so it has really felt like fall is just around the corner.  Where did the summer go?

*****
I have had a few people asking me if I am going to post a belly shot anytime soon... and while I am sorry to disappoint, the answer is no.  Honestly, because of my pre-pregnancy weight, I don't really look all that pregnant.  Yes, I have to wear maternity clothes because my regular stuff doesn't fit anymore, but if you didn't know I was pregnant, you really couldn't tell... at least not yet.  Maybe you will get to see me and my belly in a month's time. 

*****
You know you have short legs when... you order a pair of maternity jeans from the (plus size) petites section of the website, and when you get them they are still almost an inch too long.  *sigh*  It's not like I'm crazy short like my aunts (I'm a very tall woman for my bio-dad's side of the family), I'm 5'4''.  But apparently I have little stumps for legs.  Too bad I never learned how to sew! 

*****
So, I went and saw Dr. U this morning.  I got a quick peak at the Halfling... still transverse, which is okay for now, lying head to the left and bum to the right.  It explains all the movement I am getting over my right hip... those little feet are active.  Heartbeat was 153.  According to Dr. U's scale I have lost 2kg (4.4lbs) in the last two weeks, thanks to the diabetic diet I'm on. 

*****
Sooooo... Dr. U took a look at my log book for my blood sugar levels and he immediately decided it was time for insulin.  He commended me for trying so hard with my diet, but that it just wasn't working, and he doesn't want to take another week to see if we can get the numbers any lower.  So, insulin it is.  I have an appointment with the nurse at the diabetes clinic tomorrow morning to learn how to administer the insulin, and how to use all the stuff I got today at the pharmacy.  The details, for those of you that get what all this means, are: Humalog - 6 units at breakfast, 4 units at lunch, 4 units at dinner & HumulinN - 6 units at bedtime.  They gave me the pen thing, rather than a traditional syringe, which is supposed to be easier.  I know many of you are already well-versed at giving yourselves shots with all the IF stuff, but I never did that, so I'm a bit nervous.  Several years ago, I had to give my mom chemo shots, so I don't imagine it will be much different... only this time I'll be sticking the needle in me. 

*****
The crib we ordered is supposed to arrive today!  I can't believe we are going to have a crib... in our house!  Of course, the nursery still isn't anywhere near ready, so the box will have to sit in the hall for a while, but it's still going to be in our house!  Yay! 

*****
We had a little house guest for most of the last week... Sunny the Pug came to stay for a few days whilst his mom & dad were out of town.  We won't be able to have him many more times before baby stuff takes over the house (Sunny always comes with a kennel, a bed, and a huge pen that  we can keep him in during the day so that he stays off the furniture while we're at work).  It was fun to have him again, and now that he's gone, I keep looking for him.  He has become very attached to my Beloved and gets upset when he sees him put his coat and shoes on. 

*****
Does anyone have any good ideas for roasting acorn squash that don't involve brown sugar?  I have one that I need to use up, but of course I'm trying to not use sugar if I can help it.  Also, I'm trying to incorporate more beans into my diet for the protein, but I have never cooked much with them.  Any ideas?

Monday, August 23, 2010

Week 26: The Incredible Shrinking Belly Button

Good evening Humble Readers...

I hope that you're all doing well.  Sadly, your friendly neighbourhood hobbit is on the injured list.  I don't know what or how I did it, but I have seriously buggered my neck.  My chiropractor practically flipped out this morning when he saw me.  I believe his exact words were 'what the hell did you do to yourself?!'.  Honestly, I was just sitting on the couch this morning, putting on my socks, and when I stood up I had amazing pain shooting up my neck and across my shoulders.  It's a bit better now (not by much), but a crappy day at work didn't help any either. 

How far along? 26w0d

Maternity clothes? Oh heck ya... and I lurve my new maternity jeans!  So comfy!

Body Oddities?  My belly button is slowly disappearing, which is pretty astounding.  You all know that I am a plus sized lady, and with all the belly fat that I'm hauling around, I have always had a really deep belly button.  It's now less than half what it used to be.  I never actually expected this.

Sleep?  Meh... not great, not terrible.  I'm getting by.  I'm still feeling pretty tired most days, but who knows what's contributing to that... the baby?  ... the diabetes?  ... lack of sleep? 

Best moment this week?  When my Beloved felt the Halfling move for the first time.  We were lying in bed, and he had just started to doze off.  The Halfling started rolling around, and I woke my Beloved up and grabbed his hand.  The look on his face was priceless!

Worst moment?  Anytime I have to test my blood sugar.  Or rather, seeing those numbers come up on the meter's screen. 

Movement?  I think the Halfling is doing the hokey pokey in there.

Food cravings?  Anything sweet.  I actually walked really slowly down the baking aisle in my grocery store so I could smell the sugary goodness.

Rings?  Off more than they are on.

Gender? Not going to find out, but I think it's a boy

Intense Dreams?  Oh, humble readers... I had a dream that our store was infested with birds!  Thousands of little blue and cream coloured birds, and two seagulls.  Now, you may or may not recall that I am mortally afraid of birds, so you can imagine how well this dream went over.  *shudder*

Medical Concerns? High blood pressure (on 50mg Trandate/Lobetalol, 3 times a day... bp holding steady at 130-ish over 70-ish), Gestational Diabetes (the thorn in my side), on prescription Zan.tac for heartburn.

What I miss?  Chocolate, ice cream, sushi

What I look forward to?  Bookng my prenatal classes, mat leave, my week off in September

Emotional State? This week has been challenging.  I've spent a lot of time beating myself up about the GD, but I'm starting to accept that this is my life now, and I will deal with it. 

Sunday, August 22, 2010

August Q & A... Part The First

Good Evening Humble Readers...

(I started this post earlier this evening... please forgive the late posting)

Dinner is slowly coming together (pork souvlaki is marinating, greek potatoes are roasting, and salad will come together in a little while) and I was trying to think of something to post about.  My poor addled brain has been pretty darn tired the last couple of days, and my creativity is lacking. 

So, I thought I would go back and answer few questions that have come up in the last few weeks. 

Callista asked: What are you daydreaming about these days? Maternity leave... afternoons to read, time to prepare for this little Halfling's arrival, not having to work.  I've also been daydreaming a bit about Christmas.  Pondering what it's going to be like having a little one to play Santa for. 

Minta asked: who was/is your favorite New Kid?!?!?  Oh Minta... you ask a good question!  When I was in high school it was all about Danny (I loved those muscles!), but now as a grown woman, I have to say that Donnie could eat crackers in my bed any time!

Kakunaa asked: Is there going to be a theme (for the nursery)?  Yes!  Because we are not finding out the gender of the baby, it has to be something neutral, but I didn't want the usual shades of beige and brown.  I also didn't want to have the room decorated in anything licsensed (like Disney).  So I chose to go with an elephant theme.  I found some sweet elephant prints on Etsy, and I have some cute elephant stuffies.  The room will be a soft grey (a colour called 'timber wolf'), with white furniture, and apple green accents. 

Kakunaa also asked: have you picked out names?  Again, yes!  But I'm not telling!  (tee-hee)  I can, however, tell you our criteria for names.  For me, they had to be gender specific (I dislike ambiguous names having grown up with one myself), they had to be old-fashioned, and the first name had to start with a vowel.  I also didn't want them to be overly popular.  My Beloved's one criteria was that we incorporate some family names from his side. 

If any of you have questions for me, please fire away!  I'll post my answers on Friday.  I'll answer (just about) anything!

Monday, August 16, 2010

Week 25: Halfling Update

Greeting Humble Readers! 

Your friendly neighbourhood hobbit is pretty tuckered out today.  But once I get myself motivated to get off this couch I'm planning on getting back to work on the nursery.  I figure if I go through my craft stuff today, then my Beloved can go through his immense set of junk drawers later this week.  When we get the room done, I'm going to post pictures for you all.  I just hope it turns out the way I'm visualizing.

How far along? 25w0d


Maternity clothes? Yup... The bella bands are starting to get a bit tiresome now, so I think come September, I will only have three pairs of pants to wear to work.  Oh well... I've also ordered 2 pairs of maternity jeans. 

Body Oddities? The stuffy sinuses are back, I'm going to have to start using the nose strip things again.  Weight has been all over the place, up, then down, but generally hanging out within 2 pounds of my pre pregancy weight.  My internal thermometer is also way out of wack... I feel like I'm living in a world that's 5-10 degrees warmer than everyone else's.  Leg cramps have been a real biotch too.

Sleep? I have a love-hate relationship with sleep these days.  I love sleep, but I don't feel like I'm getting enough.  One of the things that helps me sleep is my insanely huge body pillow.  It's one of those curly ones, so it hooks over my shoulder and goes between my knees.  It's great, except that I don't roll over at all at night when I sleep with it, so my hips end up being really really sore when I wake up.

Best moment this week?  Yesterday, when I realized I only have three more weeks in the second trimester.

Worst moment?  Finding out that I have the dreaded GD, being woken up from a dead sleep by leg cramps

Movement? He/she is most active in the morning when I first get up and then through the afternoon and evening.  My Beloved still can't feel the kicks and rolls yet, but I think it will be soon.

Food cravings?  Hummus, yoghurt, sweets (which I am striving to avoid as much as I can)

Rings? Still on... but I think I've only got a few weeks left. There have been a few mornings where I have woken up concerned that I wasn't going to be able to get them off.  I have put off getting them soldered, and to have them prettified, so I think now might be a good time.

Gender? Not going to find out, but I think it's a boy

Intense Dreams?  So many about loss.  Blood has also been a key image in my dreams lately.  I wish they would stop.

Medical Concerns? High blood pressure (on 50mg Trandate/Lobetalol, 3 times a day... bp holding steady at 130-ish over 70-ish), Gestational Diabetes (going to a GD clinic on Thursday to learn how to test my blood sugar, etc), on prescription Zan.tac for heartburn.

What I miss?  Chocolate peanut butter cups, being able to shave my legs in the shower, sushi

What I look forward to? the full hour massage I have scheduled for this afternoon, getting to start painting the nursery.

Emotional State? Still all over the place.  Laughing hysterically one moment, snarky the next.  Mostly tied to my energy level. 

Sunday, August 15, 2010

Once Begun is Half Done

Or, at least that's what Grandma always said, Humble Readers!

We finally started working on the nursery for real today.  It doesn't look like we made a lot of progress yet, but it involved two trips to Va.lue Vil.lage.  Because the spare room had become a glorified storage room, it hasn't been regularly dusted or cleaned... so you can imagine there was much sneezing and rubbing of eyes. 

My Beloved had spent a big chunk of time a couple of weekends ago going through our personal files, purging and transferring them from file crates to an actual file cabinet. Said cabinet is now in our master bedroom closet.  We still have a 5' tall plastic drawer unit that my Beloved has just tossed stuff into for the last ten years that we need to go through.  And we need to get rid of a bunch of boxes of files that pertain to the condo building (Beloved is the accountant for the building, so there's lots of paper).

I need to go through a lot of my crafting stuff and decide what needs to be kept and what needs to go.  I also consolidated one huge box of photos.  So, now I need to go through them and decide what to do with them.  They go all the way back to college... Up to 17 years of pics!  Yikes!  At least I'll have something to do if I end up on bed rest. 

One of the hard things was getting rid of a lot of our wedding leftovers... invitations, thank you notes, place cards, etc.  I kept one of each, but it was tough to just recycle that stuff. 

My goal is to spend a little bit of time each day this week continuing to organize the rest of the room.  I want to be able to paint the room by the end of the month (yeah, I know, I know... I've said that repeatedly). 

Oh, and in case you haven't noticed... I've changed my mission impossible page to my list page.  I started combining all my small lists into one large list.  Double yikes!