Choice - a self-serve salad bar which is actually a great place to try
new foods with Logan.
His favorite? Chinese chow mein noodles. That's right, FRIED STARCH.
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
New Years Eve Dinner
Choice - a self-serve salad bar which is actually a great place to try
new foods with Logan.
January 20th
The install date of our new DSL line. That means we're expected to live, sans Internets, for a little over THREE WEEKS?!?
Kill me now.
I'm not sure I can cope with crying babies, sick doggies, zombie husbands who just want to play their new game Gears of War 2 that their wives bought them for Christmas (what was I thinking?), without my sweet dear cuddly Internets to keep me sane and tuck me in at night.
Consider this a public service announcement. Fewer blog posts and virtually NO new pictures, for the next few weeks. :(
Unless.... I can somehow convince our new provider to bring in the install date by, say, 3 weeks?
And no, even a blow job offer won't work. Our rep is female.
*sigh*
Kill me now.
I'm not sure I can cope with crying babies, sick doggies, zombie husbands who just want to play their new game Gears of War 2 that their wives bought them for Christmas (what was I thinking?), without my sweet dear cuddly Internets to keep me sane and tuck me in at night.
Consider this a public service announcement. Fewer blog posts and virtually NO new pictures, for the next few weeks. :(
Unless.... I can somehow convince our new provider to bring in the install date by, say, 3 weeks?
And no, even a blow job offer won't work. Our rep is female.
*sigh*
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Happy Birthday Odin!
hug. The old furry thing turns 5 today, if you can believe it.
Monday, December 29, 2008
Ugh.
You'll have to excuse my sorry-ass of a title for this post. My brain is like mush right now - not exactly tapping the creative juices at the moment. A quick 24-hour update.....
Yesterday afternoon when Logan woke up from his nap, I noticed he had an unusually snotty and runny nose. He had really bounced back after the antibiotics over Christmas, so I guess the runny nose caught me by surprise. He didn't have much of an appetite, and was more clingy than usual while playing with his toys. At one point, I finally noticed he was BURNING UP. We took his temp and it was around 101-102. And, continued to hover in that range the rest of the night.
So, we gave him some Motrin, gave him a lot of juice to keep him hydrated, and tried to cool him off with a damp cloth (which he let me know he DID NOT like Mom). He was miserable and exhausted, and fell asleep with his face buried in my chest like "old times". He was pretty antsy even though he was tired and kept waking up every couple of hours - which actually was just fine since we jumped on the opportunity to take his temp, monitor the fever and give him some more Motrin if it was time.
About 4am he seemed to finally have a bit of an appetite (up until then he was refusing any solids or the bottle), so I warmed up some milk for him...which he gulped down in record time, and then immediately after spewed all over us and the bed.
You'd think I'd learned by now, but no. I don't think I have. Especially not when it's 4am. ;-)
Though we were spent, he actually seemed to be feeling better once he puked his guts out, and went back to sleep for another few hours before waking up around 8am for the day. Since he had had a pretty nasty fever all night long, we couldn't take him into school today, so Jon stayed with him in the morning (while I went to my PT appt) and then I took him, with me to my Dad's house, for the afternoon.
Why did I make the trip to my Dad's? Oh - didn't I tell you? We don't have any Internet access at our house right now. That's right. No Internets to fondle and love and keep me going. I tell you, it's debilitating. We canceled our current service before starting up a newer/better service that will be installed any day now so help me God.
Thankfully, my Dad loves to babysit, and helped me take care of Logan while I juggled a few emails and client phone calls and a clingy sick little baby. We headed home to meet up with Jon so he could watch Logan for a couple hours while I headed to my acupuncture appt (yes, just what I need, a bunch of needles stuck in my head while I'm this tense).
When I got back, Logan seemed to be pretty happy playing with all of his toys and teasing the dogs. He's still not 100%, but his appetite has come back with a punch and his fever hasn't returned (he still feels a bit hot to me but whenever we take his temp he's well within normal ranges), so I figure that's all a good sign and we'll have our happy go lucky kid back again in no time.
If the constant snotty noses and fevers in our house wasn't enough - we just found out tonight that Lola has lymphoma. We had taken her in for a routine checkup last Friday when the vet noticed her lymph nodes were quite swollen. They did a number of tests to check for bacteria, cancer, etc. which came back from the lab today (and confirmed the bad news). We're going to the vet tomorrow morning to find out how advanced the cancer is, and if it's even early enough to still treat (chemo) or not.
And, talk about our options. :(
*sigh*
And now you know why my brain is mush and for the life of me, I can't think of a more descriptive title to this post than..... UGH.
Yesterday afternoon when Logan woke up from his nap, I noticed he had an unusually snotty and runny nose. He had really bounced back after the antibiotics over Christmas, so I guess the runny nose caught me by surprise. He didn't have much of an appetite, and was more clingy than usual while playing with his toys. At one point, I finally noticed he was BURNING UP. We took his temp and it was around 101-102. And, continued to hover in that range the rest of the night.
So, we gave him some Motrin, gave him a lot of juice to keep him hydrated, and tried to cool him off with a damp cloth (which he let me know he DID NOT like Mom). He was miserable and exhausted, and fell asleep with his face buried in my chest like "old times". He was pretty antsy even though he was tired and kept waking up every couple of hours - which actually was just fine since we jumped on the opportunity to take his temp, monitor the fever and give him some more Motrin if it was time.
About 4am he seemed to finally have a bit of an appetite (up until then he was refusing any solids or the bottle), so I warmed up some milk for him...which he gulped down in record time, and then immediately after spewed all over us and the bed.
You'd think I'd learned by now, but no. I don't think I have. Especially not when it's 4am. ;-)
Though we were spent, he actually seemed to be feeling better once he puked his guts out, and went back to sleep for another few hours before waking up around 8am for the day. Since he had had a pretty nasty fever all night long, we couldn't take him into school today, so Jon stayed with him in the morning (while I went to my PT appt) and then I took him, with me to my Dad's house, for the afternoon.
Why did I make the trip to my Dad's? Oh - didn't I tell you? We don't have any Internet access at our house right now. That's right. No Internets to fondle and love and keep me going. I tell you, it's debilitating. We canceled our current service before starting up a newer/better service that will be installed any day now so help me God.
Thankfully, my Dad loves to babysit, and helped me take care of Logan while I juggled a few emails and client phone calls and a clingy sick little baby. We headed home to meet up with Jon so he could watch Logan for a couple hours while I headed to my acupuncture appt (yes, just what I need, a bunch of needles stuck in my head while I'm this tense).
When I got back, Logan seemed to be pretty happy playing with all of his toys and teasing the dogs. He's still not 100%, but his appetite has come back with a punch and his fever hasn't returned (he still feels a bit hot to me but whenever we take his temp he's well within normal ranges), so I figure that's all a good sign and we'll have our happy go lucky kid back again in no time.
If the constant snotty noses and fevers in our house wasn't enough - we just found out tonight that Lola has lymphoma. We had taken her in for a routine checkup last Friday when the vet noticed her lymph nodes were quite swollen. They did a number of tests to check for bacteria, cancer, etc. which came back from the lab today (and confirmed the bad news). We're going to the vet tomorrow morning to find out how advanced the cancer is, and if it's even early enough to still treat (chemo) or not.
And, talk about our options. :(
*sigh*
And now you know why my brain is mush and for the life of me, I can't think of a more descriptive title to this post than..... UGH.
Sunday, December 28, 2008
Mommy Zombie Misses Again
So, remember when I mentioned the first couple of steps Logan took on his own just happened to be the one day I wasn't with him, when Jon and Logan flew out to Texas early?
I forgot to mention that on Christmas Eve, while having dinner at my parent's house, Logan took a record SEVEN steps all on his own.
Where was I? RIGHT THERE. But totally NOT paying attention (I had just put him down, so he was walking from me to Daddy nearby and yet I was totally clueless, probably taking the few minutes of rare baby-freedom to shovel dinner into my mouth instead). I caught the last couple of steps from the corner of my eye, but that was it.
I was a little bummed and starting to think Jon was lying about all these steps Logan is supposedly taking. ;-)
So today, we visited with the Mavros' (at a local Round Table Pizza) who were driving through town on their way back home from the holidays (we had a great time and Logan LOVED climbing all over the jungle gym kid's area at the restaurant). Afterward, we headed over to the AT&T store to pick up a few items before heading home ourselves.
I was at the counter paying for all our goodies and Jon was on the other side of the store with Logan, practicing his walking. And, yep, you guessed it.
ELEVEN STEPS.
Another record number of steps that Mommy Zombie missed. AGAIN.
*sigh*
Oh well. I suppose I'll see him walking on his own in no time. But it has been quite funny that I keep missing all the progress! ;-)
(for what it's worth, my theory is, he doesn't take as many steps around me because the minute he sees me, he then just wants to hang off me and/or be held instead of trying to walk!)
I forgot to mention that on Christmas Eve, while having dinner at my parent's house, Logan took a record SEVEN steps all on his own.
Where was I? RIGHT THERE. But totally NOT paying attention (I had just put him down, so he was walking from me to Daddy nearby and yet I was totally clueless, probably taking the few minutes of rare baby-freedom to shovel dinner into my mouth instead). I caught the last couple of steps from the corner of my eye, but that was it.
I was a little bummed and starting to think Jon was lying about all these steps Logan is supposedly taking. ;-)
So today, we visited with the Mavros' (at a local Round Table Pizza) who were driving through town on their way back home from the holidays (we had a great time and Logan LOVED climbing all over the jungle gym kid's area at the restaurant). Afterward, we headed over to the AT&T store to pick up a few items before heading home ourselves.
I was at the counter paying for all our goodies and Jon was on the other side of the store with Logan, practicing his walking. And, yep, you guessed it.
ELEVEN STEPS.
Another record number of steps that Mommy Zombie missed. AGAIN.
*sigh*
Oh well. I suppose I'll see him walking on his own in no time. But it has been quite funny that I keep missing all the progress! ;-)
(for what it's worth, my theory is, he doesn't take as many steps around me because the minute he sees me, he then just wants to hang off me and/or be held instead of trying to walk!)
Thursday, December 25, 2008
Decking the Halls
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all!We purposefully planned a very quiet holiday week this week, doing nothing in particular but sleeping in (when we can) and staying up late, watching movies, opening a couple presents, eating to our heart's content and enjoying our time with Logan and family (where the boys got really serious into a few pool games, as you can see from the pics!).
It's been great! Hope everyone is having a wonderful holiday season as well.
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Christmas Eve Gift
Christmas Eve Gift.
There. I said it. Before any of you. HA.
(and yes, in this day and age, saying it on a blog counts. Why? Because I said so.)
For those of you who don't know about this game, let me explain.
Every Christmas Eve, the first person who says "Christmas Eve Gift", is allowed to open one present on Christmas Eve, before the big day. HOW AWESOME IS THAT when you are 10 years old and can rub it in your brothers' faces?
It became a HUGE game that my brothers and I loved to play - often staying up late, trying to be the first to surprise the other with the phrase, as the clock struck 12:01 Dec 24th. Our grandparents, aunt and uncle, and cousins were all in on the game as well (it being an old Connally family tradition), so anytime the phone would ring on Christmas Eve, we quickly learned you either shouldn't answer the phone at all - or - you had to answer it QUICKLY saying (and usually screaming with excitement) before the other person on the phone:
(I admit, it's a little weird anytime anyone NOT in the family was calling us)
I think a lot of the excitement has worn off as we've gotten older and moved out of the house. And, since we really don't do Christmas gifts anymore, what's the point? ;-)
But, I figure, now that I'm a parent, this will be one tradition I can renew with my own son. This year is a little too early, I know. But next year..... hoooo boy.
WATCH OUT.
There. I said it. Before any of you. HA.
(and yes, in this day and age, saying it on a blog counts. Why? Because I said so.)
For those of you who don't know about this game, let me explain.
Every Christmas Eve, the first person who says "Christmas Eve Gift", is allowed to open one present on Christmas Eve, before the big day. HOW AWESOME IS THAT when you are 10 years old and can rub it in your brothers' faces?
It became a HUGE game that my brothers and I loved to play - often staying up late, trying to be the first to surprise the other with the phrase, as the clock struck 12:01 Dec 24th. Our grandparents, aunt and uncle, and cousins were all in on the game as well (it being an old Connally family tradition), so anytime the phone would ring on Christmas Eve, we quickly learned you either shouldn't answer the phone at all - or - you had to answer it QUICKLY saying (and usually screaming with excitement) before the other person on the phone:
CHRISTMAS EVE GIFT!
(I admit, it's a little weird anytime anyone NOT in the family was calling us)
I think a lot of the excitement has worn off as we've gotten older and moved out of the house. And, since we really don't do Christmas gifts anymore, what's the point? ;-)
But, I figure, now that I'm a parent, this will be one tradition I can renew with my own son. This year is a little too early, I know. But next year..... hoooo boy.
WATCH OUT.
Sunday, December 21, 2008
Winter Cleaning?
In addition to the kitchen, Logan likes to help out in our office too, reorganizing the bookshelves while Mommy and Daddy work.
Daddy doesn't think this is as cute as you all do. So, I just don't tell him how often this really happens. ;-)
Daddy doesn't think this is as cute as you all do. So, I just don't tell him how often this really happens. ;-)
Saturday, December 20, 2008
All bundled up
We took a walk with Logan and the dogs to the local post office so that I could get a few more late holiday cards mailed out today.
Check out his new cute mittens and matching hat that Daddy bought him! :) (he looks a little dorky but the hat is actually meant to cover his ears like that)
He did figure out how to get his hat off finally, but the mittens miraculously stayed on (partly because they are basically like big socks over his hands with no thumb action for him to grab stuff!) We'll see how long they last on him while up in Tahoe....
Check out his new cute mittens and matching hat that Daddy bought him! :) (he looks a little dorky but the hat is actually meant to cover his ears like that)
He did figure out how to get his hat off finally, but the mittens miraculously stayed on (partly because they are basically like big socks over his hands with no thumb action for him to grab stuff!) We'll see how long they last on him while up in Tahoe....
Friday, December 19, 2008
Still Sick :(
Logan seems to be getting a tiny bit better each day, but overall still sick, the poor guy. He switches between the happy go lucky guy we know and love, playing and laughing and flashing his big grin, to an unhappy needy really miserable and sad looking kid really quickly. It's been tough.
Yesterday, Jon stayed home with Logan since I needed to get back to the office to get some work done. But, unfortunately, it was also the day that PG&E had scheduled some work to be done on the pole that services power to our entire block.
Lights out at 9am. And, didn't come back on until 6pm.
So, Jon did the best he could in the morning playing with Logan (and working on his laptop since he had a few hours of battery juice he could use), but after awhile, the boys started getting pretttttty cold! It was about 44 F outside yesterday, so it was probably only 55-60 F inside the house. Still, it feels pretty damn cold when the heater isn't on. I know, I know, us Californians are real wimps. :)
Luckily, the (indoor) mall is close by! So, Jon bundled the two of them up and headed off to the mall where they joined several other stay at home moms, window shopping while doing laps with their strollers. Jon bought a few key items like slippers for himself and a few beanies for Logan (we noticed we didn't have anything to keep his head warm the other night when we went out for a walk). They'll both come in real handy for our trip up to Tahoe soon.
When Logan was ready for his afternoon nap, Jon brought him back home and bundled him up REAL tight in his crib to keep him warm. And then once Logan woke up again, it was back out for another trip, this time to Barnes and Noble, another favorite spot of Jon's. ;-) It actually sounded like the boys had a really nice day skipping work for the afternoon!
I, myself, had an interesting afternoon, where I spent a couple hours visiting with another acupuncturist. This time I went to see a specialist in scalp acupuncture that my parents had recommended to me, and I felt like it was a much better visit this time around. The treatments are all done with needles in your scalp - which sounds scary but it's actually not. And, what's more, it allows you the flexibility and movement to walk around! So, instead of a nice relaxing nap like most people have when they visit their acupuncturist, I had to do several exercises while the doctor worked on the needles. I actually liked this approach much better, since I felt like I was DOING something and contributing to the healing process. It's like the Chinese version of Physical Therapy! ;-)
On the flip side, if you're not used to seeing needles, it is a tad strange to see them sticking out all over your head and anyone else's head that is there getting treated too. :) Even more, they actually want you to keep the needles in for as long as you can and send you home with them still stuck in your scalp! (I took them out just before our trip up to the city last night since I didn't think people would understand if I had a bunch of needles poking out while watching Phantom) hehe
They also put an herbal patch (to calm down the inflammation) on my back, and sent me home with some herbal tea to drink 2-3x a day for my cold (thank you Logan!). I'm not as crazy about the herbal stuff (it tastes awful) but I'm willing to try anything for a couple times before rejecting it completely. I also liked this doctor a lot more than the last, so I'd be open to seeing her again. She wants me to come at least 2x a week (!!!) which is a little bit hard to swallow since none of these visits are covered by insurance and let me tell you folks. ACUPUNCTURE. AIN'T. CHEAP.
*sigh*
So, we'll see. I think I'll go back to see her at least a couple more times. I felt like my back improved slightly from the visit (my range of motion afterward was much better) so I think it's worth giving it a chance. And, if not, at least I tried and we can move onto something else.....
Yesterday, Jon stayed home with Logan since I needed to get back to the office to get some work done. But, unfortunately, it was also the day that PG&E had scheduled some work to be done on the pole that services power to our entire block.
Lights out at 9am. And, didn't come back on until 6pm.
So, Jon did the best he could in the morning playing with Logan (and working on his laptop since he had a few hours of battery juice he could use), but after awhile, the boys started getting pretttttty cold! It was about 44 F outside yesterday, so it was probably only 55-60 F inside the house. Still, it feels pretty damn cold when the heater isn't on. I know, I know, us Californians are real wimps. :)
Luckily, the (indoor) mall is close by! So, Jon bundled the two of them up and headed off to the mall where they joined several other stay at home moms, window shopping while doing laps with their strollers. Jon bought a few key items like slippers for himself and a few beanies for Logan (we noticed we didn't have anything to keep his head warm the other night when we went out for a walk). They'll both come in real handy for our trip up to Tahoe soon.
When Logan was ready for his afternoon nap, Jon brought him back home and bundled him up REAL tight in his crib to keep him warm. And then once Logan woke up again, it was back out for another trip, this time to Barnes and Noble, another favorite spot of Jon's. ;-) It actually sounded like the boys had a really nice day skipping work for the afternoon!
I, myself, had an interesting afternoon, where I spent a couple hours visiting with another acupuncturist. This time I went to see a specialist in scalp acupuncture that my parents had recommended to me, and I felt like it was a much better visit this time around. The treatments are all done with needles in your scalp - which sounds scary but it's actually not. And, what's more, it allows you the flexibility and movement to walk around! So, instead of a nice relaxing nap like most people have when they visit their acupuncturist, I had to do several exercises while the doctor worked on the needles. I actually liked this approach much better, since I felt like I was DOING something and contributing to the healing process. It's like the Chinese version of Physical Therapy! ;-)
On the flip side, if you're not used to seeing needles, it is a tad strange to see them sticking out all over your head and anyone else's head that is there getting treated too. :) Even more, they actually want you to keep the needles in for as long as you can and send you home with them still stuck in your scalp! (I took them out just before our trip up to the city last night since I didn't think people would understand if I had a bunch of needles poking out while watching Phantom) hehe
They also put an herbal patch (to calm down the inflammation) on my back, and sent me home with some herbal tea to drink 2-3x a day for my cold (thank you Logan!). I'm not as crazy about the herbal stuff (it tastes awful) but I'm willing to try anything for a couple times before rejecting it completely. I also liked this doctor a lot more than the last, so I'd be open to seeing her again. She wants me to come at least 2x a week (!!!) which is a little bit hard to swallow since none of these visits are covered by insurance and let me tell you folks. ACUPUNCTURE. AIN'T. CHEAP.
*sigh*
So, we'll see. I think I'll go back to see her at least a couple more times. I felt like my back improved slightly from the visit (my range of motion afterward was much better) so I think it's worth giving it a chance. And, if not, at least I tried and we can move onto something else.....
Phantom
Last night my parents treated us to our THIRD outing sans Logan. We went up to the city to see the Phantom of the Opera. It was the first time for Jon but I'd seen it before as a young kid. Still, I'm glad I saw it again - since I hadn't remembered some of the storyline.The show was excellent, we had GREAT seats and we had a really nice time, even if we're both a little under the weather and it was a "school night". And, even better, we got to sleep in this morning since Logan stayed overnight at my parents for his 2nd night away from home!! :)
Thanks Mom and Dad!
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Icky Sicky
Yesterday morning I got another one of those dreaded calls from Logan's preschool. He had a fever of a little over 101. :( I picked him up, and he was clearly not doing well, poor guy. His doctor wanted to see him since his fever was accompanied by a persistent cough and congestion that had been giving him trouble sleeping the last few days (I had just waved it off as another head cold but the fever got me worried enough to call, good thing I did!).
As it turns out, he has a pretty nasty upper and lower respiratory infection - so we picked up some antibiotics at the pharmacy and I took care of him all afternoon, juggling nap time and work calls at the same time. He was in pretty bad shape though - and really having a hard time feeling so crummy. I've never seen him this upset or icky feeling before. :( So, I played hookie and took the day off to take care of him today (his doctor said he shouldn't be around other kids for at least 48 hrs, since he's likely still contagious).
We had a pretty good day - we hung out at my Dad's house most of the day since today our housecleaner comes by to help keep my life sane. He had trouble going down for an afternoon nap however, so we finally headed home so I could try to put him down for a 2nd nap. That did not work out too well. He was EXHAUSTED. Yet, he FOUGHT like hell to stay awake. At one point, I'm pretty sure he was screaming and crying in my ear for about 2 hrs straight.
By the end of the day, I was exhausted myself and counting the minutes until Jon walked through the door. Since Logan resisted his nap sooo much, Jon and I decided to take him out for a nice long walk with the dogs in freezing cold weather (it was 38 F!) :) I took the opportunity to try out our new jogging stroller that Jon just bought too - and as much as I had resisted the large price tag, it sure is a nice smooooooth ride. :)
I guess the walk with festive Christmas lights, or the chilly air against his face, finally calmed him down, because he went to bed shortly afterwards when we got home (it took awhile, he just wanted to cuddle in my arms with that dazed sick look in his eyes, but at least he didn't fight me about it).
Since I took the day off today, Jon's got babysitting duties tomorrow. Hopefully, we've seen the worst of this bug and Logan will be better very soon!!
As it turns out, he has a pretty nasty upper and lower respiratory infection - so we picked up some antibiotics at the pharmacy and I took care of him all afternoon, juggling nap time and work calls at the same time. He was in pretty bad shape though - and really having a hard time feeling so crummy. I've never seen him this upset or icky feeling before. :( So, I played hookie and took the day off to take care of him today (his doctor said he shouldn't be around other kids for at least 48 hrs, since he's likely still contagious).
We had a pretty good day - we hung out at my Dad's house most of the day since today our housecleaner comes by to help keep my life sane. He had trouble going down for an afternoon nap however, so we finally headed home so I could try to put him down for a 2nd nap. That did not work out too well. He was EXHAUSTED. Yet, he FOUGHT like hell to stay awake. At one point, I'm pretty sure he was screaming and crying in my ear for about 2 hrs straight.
By the end of the day, I was exhausted myself and counting the minutes until Jon walked through the door. Since Logan resisted his nap sooo much, Jon and I decided to take him out for a nice long walk with the dogs in freezing cold weather (it was 38 F!) :) I took the opportunity to try out our new jogging stroller that Jon just bought too - and as much as I had resisted the large price tag, it sure is a nice smooooooth ride. :)
I guess the walk with festive Christmas lights, or the chilly air against his face, finally calmed him down, because he went to bed shortly afterwards when we got home (it took awhile, he just wanted to cuddle in my arms with that dazed sick look in his eyes, but at least he didn't fight me about it).
Since I took the day off today, Jon's got babysitting duties tomorrow. Hopefully, we've seen the worst of this bug and Logan will be better very soon!!
Sunday, December 14, 2008
Our little helper
Apparently my tupperware cabinet (and plastic bag drawer and area where the paper bags are kept) needs re-arranging.
This is the latest activity that Logan likes to do while Mommy's in the kitchen making dinner or cleaning bottles, etc.
We call it HELPING OUT around the house.
A Night Alone
Logan stayed overnight at my parent's house last night while Jon and I enjoyed our first night alone without the little guy! We had a nice night out and slept in this morning. As we were going to bed last night, Jon said "I'm so excited about getting a full night's rest that I can't fall asleep!" :)
Logan was great with my parents, didn't wake them up in the middle of the night (my biggest fear) and was very playful and easy going all morning. *whew*
Thanks Mom and Dad!!
Logan was great with my parents, didn't wake them up in the middle of the night (my biggest fear) and was very playful and easy going all morning. *whew*
Thanks Mom and Dad!!
Birthday Dinner
A few days late but wanted to do another post about Logan's birthday so I could share a few more pics of his big day (click on any of these to see the full album). :)We had a really casual low keyed birthday celebration for Logan. We went to his daddy's favorite pizza joint (Giovanni's) where he munched on pasta, pizza and cheesy garlic bread. YUM!
My parents and brothers joined us since they are all in the area.
He was in a great mood (surprisingly, given he had a number of shots earlier in the day) and laughed and giggled and smiled for anyone who would look his way.Afterward we headed to our house for some good ol' chocolate birthday cake and a
few presents from his faraway grandparents in Washington state (a fun Rock 'n Ride Pony!) and Texas (a crazy bead maze cube).He loved all the new toys of course, but faded pretty quickly after the sugary rush of cake - so I put him down for the night and hung out with my mom to catch up on life while "the boys" talked pool strategy (my dad just got a new pool table) and poker (where they started a late game) all night.
It was a perfect evening to Logan's big day. Thanks to everyone for all the birthday wishes and wonderful gifts! He is loving every single one of them. :)
Thursday, December 11, 2008
12 month checkup
Yesterday we had Logan's 12 month check up - and everything is progressing quite nicely, and as expected. Logan has grown significantly since our last check up - he's 3 inches taller!! (30.5" tall, now in the 75%). His head circumference is now 47cm round (75%, 2cm larger than last time) and he weighs a little more than 2 lbs, at 22 lbs, 2 oz (60%)! What a big boy!!
In addition to the regular exam and watching Logan take a few steps toward Mommy, Dr. Safir also gave Logan 3 shots which he was NOT happy about. :( And then on top of that, he had his finger pricked for a blood test (to check his iron levels - all normal and checked out fine). After the finger prick, the nurse put a cotton ball on his teeny finger tip and then wrapped a band aid tight around it.
Boy - did that set Logan off. More than the shots or prick I think!! Because, he's gotten into this "phase" where he just DOES NOT LIKE stuff sticking to his fingers (i.e. when he's eating anything messy or sticky). He will sit for DAYS shaking his hand trying to get the stuff off his fingers. So, imagine his distress when he kept shaking his hand but this damn cotton poof would NOT come off! It was actually quite hilarious. :)
I did a really long post yesterday to commemorate Logan turning one - so I'll do my best to keep this post more brief. ;-) Much of my attention lately has been around his progress on walking - noting the few steps he continually tests out on his own. His teacher (Miss Kim) works with him everyday, trying to get him to practice walking, but she says he'll only take a couple of steps before he gets scared and leans forward to catch himself on the floor. He seems to be taking more and more steps on his own every day though.
In addition to the walking, he's really keen on pointing at things and talking a lot more. I can tell he's trying to associate sounds with objects - at least that's what it seems to me. And, it's a constant puzzle for me to try and figure out what he may be saying. So, our early morning conversations usually go something like this....
"doi doi doi doi doi ma da doi ma pffffffttttttttt"
"Doggy? Are you looking at the Doggy? Mommy? Yes, I'm mommy. Daddy? No, Daddy's not here right now. I'm mommy!" etc. ;-)
In addition to talking more, he's just recently taken to mimicking people. Just last night he would copy the same goofy faces that my brother Zane was making at him - it was quite entertaining, watching his little face contort into the expressions he thought my brother was making. And then this morning, as I was dressing him and getting him ready for school, he did something where I commented "WOW!" and a couple seconds went by before he slowly pursed his lips and exclaimed "WOW" back! It was so touching and wonderful to hear. We did it several more times, back and forth, me saying WOW and Logan copying me. :) I don't think he quite knew what he was saying, so not sure if it counts as one of his first words, but he was definitely imitating me as best he could, which was just as satisfying.
Logan has developed a really nasty habit of biting. It's not just the friendly little nip - but a full on hard leaves-a-bruise-and-teeth-marks type of bite. It sucks. Especially when he catches you off guard. We know he's aware of what "NO" means, since he'll stop when we say NO and/or just test our boundaries when he hears the word. However when I tell him NO after biting me, he just laughs hysterically and grins really big. In addition to NO, we will sometimes also give him a little thump on his hand or cheek immediately afterward, which he doesn't like but also doesn't quite think of as a punishment I guess.
Usually he bites when he's overly excited or wants my attention (Mommy, I'm tired, it's time for bed. BITE. or, Mommy, I'm hungry, I want my bottle now. BITE.) So, while I can appreciate his trying to communicate with me, I don't appreciate the mini bruises popping up everywhere. And, what's worse, our teacher reported that he bit not one, but TWO kids, at school the other day! :( Everyone was fine - but they wanted to let us know.
*sigh*
So, it's our latest struggle that we are working hard to correct.
We've also noticed other forms of communication developing - most specifically - THE TANTRUM. We've only seen THE TANTRUM come out a couple times so far, but it's a full on arch of the back, throwing his head smack against the floor, kicking and screaming, because he didn't get his way. It's only lasted a few seconds each time, but still, it's no fun. And, because he's not really in control and doesn't quite realize that he's throwing THE TANTRUM, he gets even MORE upset after smacking his head super hard on the floor.
Thank goodness for his hard noggin'.
And finally, a more precious moment to report on with our spunky little kid - I've noticed it a couple times now, just within the last week, where he's gotten SO tired that he gets really quiet, stops playing and literally LAYS HIS HEAD DOWN ON THE FLOOR with a blank look on his face.
You know your kid is exhausted when suddenly the hardwood floors seem like they might make a nice little bed.
In addition to the regular exam and watching Logan take a few steps toward Mommy, Dr. Safir also gave Logan 3 shots which he was NOT happy about. :( And then on top of that, he had his finger pricked for a blood test (to check his iron levels - all normal and checked out fine). After the finger prick, the nurse put a cotton ball on his teeny finger tip and then wrapped a band aid tight around it.Boy - did that set Logan off. More than the shots or prick I think!! Because, he's gotten into this "phase" where he just DOES NOT LIKE stuff sticking to his fingers (i.e. when he's eating anything messy or sticky). He will sit for DAYS shaking his hand trying to get the stuff off his fingers. So, imagine his distress when he kept shaking his hand but this damn cotton poof would NOT come off! It was actually quite hilarious. :)
I did a really long post yesterday to commemorate Logan turning one - so I'll do my best to keep this post more brief. ;-) Much of my attention lately has been around his progress on walking - noting the few steps he continually tests out on his own. His teacher (Miss Kim) works with him everyday, trying to get him to practice walking, but she says he'll only take a couple of steps before he gets scared and leans forward to catch himself on the floor. He seems to be taking more and more steps on his own every day though.
In addition to the walking, he's really keen on pointing at things and talking a lot more. I can tell he's trying to associate sounds with objects - at least that's what it seems to me. And, it's a constant puzzle for me to try and figure out what he may be saying. So, our early morning conversations usually go something like this....
"doi doi doi doi doi ma da doi ma pffffffttttttttt"
"Doggy? Are you looking at the Doggy? Mommy? Yes, I'm mommy. Daddy? No, Daddy's not here right now. I'm mommy!" etc. ;-)
In addition to talking more, he's just recently taken to mimicking people. Just last night he would copy the same goofy faces that my brother Zane was making at him - it was quite entertaining, watching his little face contort into the expressions he thought my brother was making. And then this morning, as I was dressing him and getting him ready for school, he did something where I commented "WOW!" and a couple seconds went by before he slowly pursed his lips and exclaimed "WOW" back! It was so touching and wonderful to hear. We did it several more times, back and forth, me saying WOW and Logan copying me. :) I don't think he quite knew what he was saying, so not sure if it counts as one of his first words, but he was definitely imitating me as best he could, which was just as satisfying.
Logan has developed a really nasty habit of biting. It's not just the friendly little nip - but a full on hard leaves-a-bruise-and-teeth-marks type of bite. It sucks. Especially when he catches you off guard. We know he's aware of what "NO" means, since he'll stop when we say NO and/or just test our boundaries when he hears the word. However when I tell him NO after biting me, he just laughs hysterically and grins really big. In addition to NO, we will sometimes also give him a little thump on his hand or cheek immediately afterward, which he doesn't like but also doesn't quite think of as a punishment I guess.
Usually he bites when he's overly excited or wants my attention (Mommy, I'm tired, it's time for bed. BITE. or, Mommy, I'm hungry, I want my bottle now. BITE.) So, while I can appreciate his trying to communicate with me, I don't appreciate the mini bruises popping up everywhere. And, what's worse, our teacher reported that he bit not one, but TWO kids, at school the other day! :( Everyone was fine - but they wanted to let us know.
*sigh*
So, it's our latest struggle that we are working hard to correct.
We've also noticed other forms of communication developing - most specifically - THE TANTRUM. We've only seen THE TANTRUM come out a couple times so far, but it's a full on arch of the back, throwing his head smack against the floor, kicking and screaming, because he didn't get his way. It's only lasted a few seconds each time, but still, it's no fun. And, because he's not really in control and doesn't quite realize that he's throwing THE TANTRUM, he gets even MORE upset after smacking his head super hard on the floor.
Thank goodness for his hard noggin'.
And finally, a more precious moment to report on with our spunky little kid - I've noticed it a couple times now, just within the last week, where he's gotten SO tired that he gets really quiet, stops playing and literally LAYS HIS HEAD DOWN ON THE FLOOR with a blank look on his face.
You know your kid is exhausted when suddenly the hardwood floors seem like they might make a nice little bed.
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
A Labor of Love
It's Logan's first birthday today. Woohoo!
I can't quite believe it has already been a year. And yet, it has. Everyone jokes about how I'll get to guilt Logan more than any other child in the world, due to the ridiculous crazy story of how he was born and the labor I went through to deliver him.
I've never actually shared My Labor Story, but I figure at one year later, now is as good a time as any....
So, here goes. Hold onto your panties!
Thursday, 6 December 2007
Toward the end of the third trimester, a lot of women experience "nesting" where they start straightening up and organizing their life, their household, essentially getting ready for this new little life to enter their home and family. So, in usual Connally fashion, I take nesting to a whole 'nother level. Let's not just tidy up and paint a few walls blue. Let's BUY A NEW ONE.
Logan isn't due for another 2 weeks so why not move homes? I think it's a lovely idea, don't you Jon?
Yeah, let's do it.
I took off Thursday and Friday so I could pack up our little home. I had been packing a few boxes here and there before then, but these two days were dedicated TO PACK. Imagine my surprise, when I had a lot harder time packing up the house than I've ever had before. Before, I’d slam out a house-packing in a couple days flat, no problem. Now, I'm huffing and puffing and not breathing well at all (I was fighting a bit of a head cold). Plus, this whole BIG ASS BELLY THING is getting in my way.
I put on a belly belt to help hold the weight, which is a little better, but still quite heavy. So, needless to say, I got some of the house packed, but not enough.
Friday, 7 December
We (finally) got official word today that our loans had funded and we were on track to close that afternoon. So, that means we'd get to move into our new home tomorrow!!
I was a little frustrated at what little progress I made yesterday, and with only one day left, I was hell bent on FINISHING. I spent the entire day and night getting ready for tomorrow's move -- staying up until 2:30am in fact, packing up as many odds and ends as I could.
I finally got my BIG ASS to bed. Was I done? No. But, it was all I could do and we had severalsuckers friends arriving at 10am tomorrow morning to start loading up the trucks with all the big heavy stuff. I figured well, I'll just keep packing tomorrow while all the guys truck our stuff to the new home....
Saturday, 8 December
We spend the entire day, and night, moving from our small little 2-bedroom house into our gigantic beautiful new 3-bedroom home. I was so ridiculously excited and had so much energy it was great.
I'm sure a lot of my energy was actually nervous energy but hey, whatever. :)
After moving all day, we went out to dinner with everyone for Julie's birthday (on the 10th). I was extremely tired by the end of the day, and pretty damn sore. I've been having a barrage of Braxton Hicks for a couple weeks now, and by dinnertime I was having a LOT of cramping and contractions going on.
I had been demoted to a waddling duck, feeling so huge and uncomfortable. And fighting a damn head cold to boot.
BUT. We had our new home. And honestly, that's all I really cared about.
Sunday, 9 December
Jon and I spent the entire day unpacking, doing laundry and enjoying our new home. In my pregnancy journal, for this day, there was a note under the section "For Your Health" which read:
Don't push yourself right now. Just rest, eat well and nurture yourself as the baby's birthday approaches.
HAAAAA!!
I unpacked our bedroom and a few items for the bathroom, living room and kitchen (just enough for us to get by for a few days). At the last minute, after much hemming and hawing and drawn out discussion with my Dad, I decided the room I had originally allocated for Baby Logan and the room for Jon's office, was all wrong. They needed to be swapped.
Dilemma. The office furniture was all piled up in Logan's to-be bedroom, and all of Logan's furniture was sitting in the to-be office. And, I wasn't quite in the position to help Jon move the furniture from one room to another.
Good thing for parents just down the road!
Dad and Jon swapped the furniture between the two rooms and Jon set up Logan's crib. I was feeling a little better.
The last thing I remember that night was relaxing on our futon couch in front of the TV in the living room, a few of the only pieces of furniture and electronics that we had set up/working. We passed out watching TV and woke up to stumble into bed. Good thing I remembered to make the bed with clean sheets!
Monday, 10 December, 4:30am
I woke up in the middle of the night already going through contractions. I was actually dreaming I was having contractions and the dream is what woke me up! So, I’m pretty sure I had started labor while in my sleep and just didn’t wake up until the contractions were more noticeable.
I was really set on staying at home as long as possible before going to the hospital. I didn’t want to be strapped to a bed, hooked up to IVs, and bored out of my mind. I also didn’t want to trek all the way there only to be told I was in false labor and to come back when I was really in labor.
So, I didn’t wake Jon up, but just started timing the contractions and wading through them on my own in bed. Jon was dead to the world, snoring by my side. I didn’t want to freak him out just yet, but wanted to be sure I was actually in labor first.
My contractions were pretty consistent -- about 40-50 sec long, 1.5-2 min apart. This threw me for a loop since they tell you in class “don't come to the hospital or call your doctor until the contractions are about 5 min. apart for an hour”
So I wasn't sure why mine were happening so quickly.
5:00am
After 30 minutes of contractions regularly spaced 1.5-2 min apart, I finally woke Jon up.
Babe, I think I’m in labor…. But I want to wait until at least an hour has passed before we go to the hospital.
And, I’m really really hungry. But, I feel nauseous too.
5:45am
I felt this overwhelming urge to POOP. And, as I sat on the toilet gripping the granite countertop riding through each contraction, I remembered Julie’s tip to me just days before “You’ll start pooping a lot right before labor” and I thought hmm. I must finally be in labor.
6:00am
Contractions were still going strong, same 1.5-2 min apart. So, I got this GREAT idea to go take a shower! Remembering one of our childbirth class teacher’s mantra, "a shower an hour". The warm water was soothing, relaxing and distracting.
It was the first time I had taken a shower in our new house.
6:30am
Contractions were getting stronger – to the point that, I just laid back in bed after the shower, too preoccupied with the contractions to even dress. I finally realized we better go soon since the contractions were getting more and more aggressive and soon I'd be incapable of dressing, getting into the car, walking, etc.
Jon was freaking out just a little that we weren’t at the hospital yet.
"Okay now? How about now? Can we go now?"
He thought I was going to have the baby in bed or in the shower or on the toilet.
Don’t be ridiculous. We're HOURS away from actually delivering!
6:45am
I laid helplessly in the fetal position in bed, still naked with my robe wrapped around me. I couldn’t dress and needed Jon to help me get my clothes on. This is it!
7:00am
I’m STARVING. Let’s stop at Jamba Juice first to grab a smoothie before we get to the hospital.
I actually don’t think Jon batted an eye at that point. Instead he just pulled into the nearest Jamba Juice, left the car running so the air could blow on my face while I panted through contractions and ran into the shop to get me some frozen whipped up sugar through a straw.
7:01am
WHAT THE FUCK IS TAKING HIM SO LONG!
7:02am
Seriously, how long does it take to get a fucking smoothie?
7:03am
Ahhhhhhhhhh. Delicious Orange Dream Machine to the rescue.
7:05am
On Hwy 17 to the Hospital.
Babe, stop jerking the car! Can you drive a little more carefully? I am seriously feeling EVERY. LITTLE. BUMP.
7:10am
Jon called my parents to let them know we were on our way to the hospital. I could hear the giddy nervous excitement in his voice.
7:20am
We arrived at the hospital. I barely survived the “bumpy rough” ride over. I was clearly in no shape to walk. Jon quickly parked in the first space available, jumped out to grab the first person he saw in scrubs and convinced them to come meet us at the car with a wheelchair.
7:30am
This friendly ER nurse wheeled me into the Birthing Center while Jon parked the car. I was still toughing out the contractions as best I could, and trying to down as much of the Jamba Juice before the Nazi Nurses took it away.
7:35am
They took away my Jamba Juice. Damn Nazi Nurses.
7:40am
“Young Nurse” took my vitals and started hooking me up to a number of machines. She measured my blood pressure, oxygen levels, heart rate, Logan’s heart rate and contractions. I couldn’t move during the first set of tests so they could take a “baseline” of the contractions and Logan’s status. Those couple of minutes were excruciatingly long for me.
7:42am
Jon arrived, nervous, breathless, excited, in love.
7:45am
I told “Young Nurse” I better be in labor because I didn’t want her telling me I’d need to turn around and go back home.
7:50am
“Young Nurse” did a quick exam to assess how far along I was. With WIDE eyes she poked her head up from between my legs and informed us that I was already 7.5cm dilated.
You’re joking right?
Nope.
“Older Nurse”, who was in the room reading my vitals, said “Dear, you won’t be going home anytime soon. In fact, get ready to have your baby this morning.”
WTF.
7:51am
“Young Nurse” calls my doctor. Ummmm, you may want to get your ass over here pronto sir.
7:52am
Jon calls my dad to let him know how far along we are. My dad asks if it’s okay to come visit. Jon looks at me, wondering what I’ll say.
SURE. The more the merrier. I really don’t give a shit.
(Funny how contractions will do that to a person.)
7:55am
In the fetal position on the bed, puffing through my contractions while “Young Nurse” tells me I need to lay still for the machines to get another reading.
SCREW THE MACHINES LADY.
7:58am
“Young Nurse” asks if I'm planning on getting an epidural.
Nope. I've gone this far already, I think I'll be fine thank you very much.
8:00am
“Young Nurse” drills me with a million questions about my personal health history. Too many questions, hard to answer. Jon chimes in when I’m unable to. Do you really need to know if I’ve had X, Y and Z in the family?
8:05am
Here, I know you’re in active labor right now but I just need you to sign a few papers for us.
Take a breath and ride the contraction out.
Ok, now sign some more papers.
8:11am
My doctor arrives, quite calm and reserved as usual. We exchanged some meaningless howdeedoo chit chat and then he got down to business and examined me to confirm - yep, I was at 7.5cm.
With a bulging sack about ready to burst.
8:12am
My doctor asked me if we wanted him to break my waters or let it break naturally. I said leave it alone and let it happen naturally. No sense speeding up this insanely fast roller coaster ride any faster.
8:15am
My dad arrived, camera and all. I could hear him reading the machine which could “predict” when my next contraction was going to hit. I could hear him count down when the contraction was about to end. I was grateful he was there to help us out, even if he was clicking a few too many pictures while I was WRITHING on the bed in pain.
8:30am
Another exam (or two, who knows). Progressing quite well, but my waters still hadn’t broken yet. Sack was B-U-L-G-I-N-G. I was definitely starting to feel the pressure.
8:35am
Jon squeezes my hand and tells me he loves me. I love you too.
8:45am
Oh no. Babe, I need to POOP!! What if I poop on the bed, during delivery?
Will you still love me?
(I didn't poop.)
8:50am
My groans are getting louder and louder. I’m sure my neighbor in the room next door could hear. I didn’t really care though.
9:00am
Several exams later, I was ready to push. I wanted to push. I HAD to push. The pressure was unbelievable. I need to get this thing OUT OF ME AND OUT OF ME RIGHT NOW.
I was about 9.5-10cm dilated, yet my waters still hadn’t broke. “Young Nurse” came in and said ok let’s have you do a few pushes to help break your waters.
HALLELUJAH.
9:02am
“Young Nurse” and “Older Nurse” escort my father out of the room. Sir, you can wait in the waiting room now.
My father sits his butt down on one of the chairs in the hallway right outside our door.
9:10am
My mom arrives, just in time to hear me screaming with my first push.
9:12am
And boy did I scream.
I grip Jon’s hand and push with all my might.
POP!
My waters EXPLODED across the room. “Young Nurse” and Jon both enjoyed a refreshing bath.
We laughed for a minute.
Hey did you see how far the water shot out? Wow that was pretty cool. It just exploded all over the room!
Ok, back to business.
9:15am
I thought before I really needed to push. BOY WAS I WRONG. I had this huge urge to push push push.
“Older Nurse” says,
"Now, it usually takes 20 or so tries at pushing before you can get the hang of it, so let's just try one now"
OK. Sounds good to me.
9:20am
About 2-3 pushes later, AND THE LOUDEST SCREAMING YOU WILL EVER HEAR, Logan had descended quite a bit down the birthing canal – so much that, several nurses started running around in circles, calling for the on-call hospital doctor since they were afraid my own doctor wouldn’t get to the hospital in time (even though his office is literally across the street).
20 or so tries my ass.
Apparently, I’m a good pusher.
9:22am
At the arrival of each new contraction, the “Young Nurse” coaches me through another set of pushes.
I hold my breath, push as hard as I possibly can, screaming at the top of my lungs at the same time.
9:23am
In a single breath, the nurses tell me I’m doing a GREAT JOB pushing but if I blow out while I push, rather than scream, I’ll be much more efficient.
Thanks, but I’m in no mood for constructive criticism right now ladies.
9:25am
My OB shows up right away and has me push once and immediately notices that Logan is breech. He mumbles a few things under his breath that I don’t quite hear, but I vaguely notice the commotion it causes as nurses go scurrying about. A couple of them go running out the door frantically, under his orders to find an ultrasound right away.
He looks at me and calmly, but seriously, explains that he believes Logan is breech and he’s not sure if I can deliver him vaginally or not, and that I may need to get a c-section.
Sweat dripping down my face, gritting my teeth at each contraction, and yet I somehow had enough clarity to recognize the situation and tell him I didn’t care and I trusted whatever he thought best for me and the baby.
Honestly, I just wanted him out of me and delivered as safely as possible.
9:26am
Jon quickly stands up and whispers to me that he’s going to get my mom since he wasn’t feeling well. My doctor looks up from me, over to him and says SIT RIGHT BACK DOWN. You aren’t going anywhere. And orders one of the nurses to go get a wheelchair for Jon.
I suppose Jon did look a little green. I told him it was going to be alright, we were all going to be alright.
(Later I learned Jon was pretty upset by the news and apparently had visions of losing his wife and son all in one day).
9:30am
While waiting for the ultrasound, I’m still pushing little Logan out as fast as I possibly can. And, at one point, the nurses are all so preoccupied with the current events, that they’ve left me “stirrup less” and I’m literally in the middle of a contraction with not a hand or body to PUSH against!
So, legs in the air, flailing to find something to get a hold of, I find my doctor’s instrument table nearby and with one thrust send it flying across the floor, and nearly kicking my doctor in the face in the process (while he looked up from my crotch to see what all the commotion was about).
We laughed for a minute.
9:35am
A quick scan of my belly and my doctor confirmed that Logan was indeed breech.
The proverbial bells and whistles went off and all of a sudden our room was swarming with medical personnel.
9:37am
Good thing those hospital beds have wheels. I was moved into the OR in a matter of seconds. It felt like a scene from ER. Doctors were literally jogging beside my bed asking me questions, prepping me for surgery.
I feebly waved to my parents as I passed them in the hallway, panting and pushing my way through each wave of contraction. My doctor noticed them and asked if they were my parents and if I minded whether he gave them a quick update. Sure, no problem.
He hung back a few minutes to let my parents know what all the hub-bub was about, while I continued down the hall toward the tall doors of the OR room. Jon was nowhere in sight, but the nurses assured me they would be bringing him in shortly (in his wheelchair).
9:40am
My doctor consulted with the hospital OB about the situation – they were weighing the pros and cons of whether to allow me to continue to deliver Logan vaginally, or open me up and pull him out instead. There were risks to doing both at this late stage of the game.
Most everyone around me was serious yet alert and ultra focused. I knew that a breech baby was no good, but I don’t think I quite grasped the gravity of the situation. Even while lying there spread eagle in the OR.
I was too caught up in these contractions that had quite a hold on me.
9:42am
“Doctor Clueless Anesthesiologist” soon realized how much of a hold those contractions had on me. As he asked me questions about my health history (again) and what allergies, if any, I had to any medications, I stared blankly in his face and held up a finger motioning him to wait.
I barely had the breath to push thru yet another contraction. I really didn’t have time to waste answering “Doctor Clueless’s” questions. After the contraction was over I’d answer a word or two, and then hold up another finger and say “hold on a sec” and push through another contraction.
And yet, he didn’t seem to get it. And kept asking me questions.
CLEARLY I DON’T GIVE A SHIT ABOUT YOUR SURVEY RIGHT NOW MAN.
9:45am
Looks like we’re just going to continue vaginally. Keep on pushing!
9:50am
Bree, you’re going to feel a quick sting here.
Yep, pretty sharp sting doc. Not as bad as Logan’s butt pushing his way out though.
9:52am
And now you’re going to feel a little relief in the pressure.
Ahhhhh. Who said episiotomies were all bad?
9:55am
I feel everything. The pressure is insurmountable. I can’t push hard enough, fast enough, hard enough, fast enough. He wants out. I want him out.
10:00am
The nurses and doctors look up and comment that Mommy is looking a whole helluva lot better than Daddy right now.
Jon was pretty pale.
We laughed for a minute.
I squeeze his hand and he kisses my forehead and tells me he loves me.
10:10am
We’re almost there!! Logan’s butt comes out first.
He poops on my doctor.
10:17am
I can’t describe the feeling, but it’s weird. I feel his legs flop down as they follow his butt. And I tear.
And then his chest, and then his shoulders slide out next. VERY WEIRD. I can feel everything. Every bulge, every pressure, every elbow and knee. His head is the last to exit my body. RELIEF.
Before I know what is happening next, I have this slimy little black-smeared crying baby on my chest.
Logan Avery is born.
I look over at Jon who is by my side and we are both welling up with tears. Pride. Joy. Love.
10:20am
They wheel Jon out of the OR with Logan cuddled in his arms, to do all the initial baby assessments, weighing, measuring, etc. back at our room.
Meanwhile, my doctor was helping me deliver the placenta and trying to stop the bleeding. You think delivering a baby is painful? Try delivering a placenta while your doctor’s arm is inside you pressing as hard as he possibly can with wads of gauze stained dark red.
It took about an hour for my doctor to repair all the damage that was done, while Jon celebrated Logan’s first few breaths with my parents in our delivery room.
I was exhausted, but ecstatic, when we were finally done. They wheeled me back into my room so I could finally hold Logan in my arms.
And drink the rest of my Jamba Juice.
He was the cutest baby I had ever seen, looked exactly like Jon, and he was ours.
As I stared at his precious lips, his long eyelashes and marveled over his head of hair, memories of the past 6 hrs quickly vanished from my mind, forever.
Happy birthday, Logan. We couldn't have done it without you.
I can't quite believe it has already been a year. And yet, it has. Everyone jokes about how I'll get to guilt Logan more than any other child in the world, due to the ridiculous crazy story of how he was born and the labor I went through to deliver him.
I've never actually shared My Labor Story, but I figure at one year later, now is as good a time as any....
So, here goes. Hold onto your panties!
Thursday, 6 December 2007
Toward the end of the third trimester, a lot of women experience "nesting" where they start straightening up and organizing their life, their household, essentially getting ready for this new little life to enter their home and family. So, in usual Connally fashion, I take nesting to a whole 'nother level. Let's not just tidy up and paint a few walls blue. Let's BUY A NEW ONE.
Logan isn't due for another 2 weeks so why not move homes? I think it's a lovely idea, don't you Jon?
Yeah, let's do it.
I took off Thursday and Friday so I could pack up our little home. I had been packing a few boxes here and there before then, but these two days were dedicated TO PACK. Imagine my surprise, when I had a lot harder time packing up the house than I've ever had before. Before, I’d slam out a house-packing in a couple days flat, no problem. Now, I'm huffing and puffing and not breathing well at all (I was fighting a bit of a head cold). Plus, this whole BIG ASS BELLY THING is getting in my way.
I put on a belly belt to help hold the weight, which is a little better, but still quite heavy. So, needless to say, I got some of the house packed, but not enough.
Friday, 7 December
We (finally) got official word today that our loans had funded and we were on track to close that afternoon. So, that means we'd get to move into our new home tomorrow!!
I was a little frustrated at what little progress I made yesterday, and with only one day left, I was hell bent on FINISHING. I spent the entire day and night getting ready for tomorrow's move -- staying up until 2:30am in fact, packing up as many odds and ends as I could.
I finally got my BIG ASS to bed. Was I done? No. But, it was all I could do and we had several
Saturday, 8 December
We spend the entire day, and night, moving from our small little 2-bedroom house into our gigantic beautiful new 3-bedroom home. I was so ridiculously excited and had so much energy it was great.
I'm sure a lot of my energy was actually nervous energy but hey, whatever. :)
After moving all day, we went out to dinner with everyone for Julie's birthday (on the 10th). I was extremely tired by the end of the day, and pretty damn sore. I've been having a barrage of Braxton Hicks for a couple weeks now, and by dinnertime I was having a LOT of cramping and contractions going on.
I had been demoted to a waddling duck, feeling so huge and uncomfortable. And fighting a damn head cold to boot.
BUT. We had our new home. And honestly, that's all I really cared about.
Sunday, 9 December
Jon and I spent the entire day unpacking, doing laundry and enjoying our new home. In my pregnancy journal, for this day, there was a note under the section "For Your Health" which read:
Don't push yourself right now. Just rest, eat well and nurture yourself as the baby's birthday approaches.
HAAAAA!!
I unpacked our bedroom and a few items for the bathroom, living room and kitchen (just enough for us to get by for a few days). At the last minute, after much hemming and hawing and drawn out discussion with my Dad, I decided the room I had originally allocated for Baby Logan and the room for Jon's office, was all wrong. They needed to be swapped.
Dilemma. The office furniture was all piled up in Logan's to-be bedroom, and all of Logan's furniture was sitting in the to-be office. And, I wasn't quite in the position to help Jon move the furniture from one room to another.
Good thing for parents just down the road!
Dad and Jon swapped the furniture between the two rooms and Jon set up Logan's crib. I was feeling a little better.
The last thing I remember that night was relaxing on our futon couch in front of the TV in the living room, a few of the only pieces of furniture and electronics that we had set up/working. We passed out watching TV and woke up to stumble into bed. Good thing I remembered to make the bed with clean sheets!
Monday, 10 December, 4:30am
I woke up in the middle of the night already going through contractions. I was actually dreaming I was having contractions and the dream is what woke me up! So, I’m pretty sure I had started labor while in my sleep and just didn’t wake up until the contractions were more noticeable.
I was really set on staying at home as long as possible before going to the hospital. I didn’t want to be strapped to a bed, hooked up to IVs, and bored out of my mind. I also didn’t want to trek all the way there only to be told I was in false labor and to come back when I was really in labor.
So, I didn’t wake Jon up, but just started timing the contractions and wading through them on my own in bed. Jon was dead to the world, snoring by my side. I didn’t want to freak him out just yet, but wanted to be sure I was actually in labor first.
My contractions were pretty consistent -- about 40-50 sec long, 1.5-2 min apart. This threw me for a loop since they tell you in class “don't come to the hospital or call your doctor until the contractions are about 5 min. apart for an hour”
So I wasn't sure why mine were happening so quickly.
5:00am
After 30 minutes of contractions regularly spaced 1.5-2 min apart, I finally woke Jon up.
Babe, I think I’m in labor…. But I want to wait until at least an hour has passed before we go to the hospital.
And, I’m really really hungry. But, I feel nauseous too.
5:45am
I felt this overwhelming urge to POOP. And, as I sat on the toilet gripping the granite countertop riding through each contraction, I remembered Julie’s tip to me just days before “You’ll start pooping a lot right before labor” and I thought hmm. I must finally be in labor.
6:00am
Contractions were still going strong, same 1.5-2 min apart. So, I got this GREAT idea to go take a shower! Remembering one of our childbirth class teacher’s mantra, "a shower an hour". The warm water was soothing, relaxing and distracting.
It was the first time I had taken a shower in our new house.
6:30am
Contractions were getting stronger – to the point that, I just laid back in bed after the shower, too preoccupied with the contractions to even dress. I finally realized we better go soon since the contractions were getting more and more aggressive and soon I'd be incapable of dressing, getting into the car, walking, etc.
Jon was freaking out just a little that we weren’t at the hospital yet.
"Okay now? How about now? Can we go now?"
He thought I was going to have the baby in bed or in the shower or on the toilet.
Don’t be ridiculous. We're HOURS away from actually delivering!
6:45am
I laid helplessly in the fetal position in bed, still naked with my robe wrapped around me. I couldn’t dress and needed Jon to help me get my clothes on. This is it!
7:00am
I’m STARVING. Let’s stop at Jamba Juice first to grab a smoothie before we get to the hospital.
I actually don’t think Jon batted an eye at that point. Instead he just pulled into the nearest Jamba Juice, left the car running so the air could blow on my face while I panted through contractions and ran into the shop to get me some frozen whipped up sugar through a straw.
7:01am
WHAT THE FUCK IS TAKING HIM SO LONG!
7:02am
Seriously, how long does it take to get a fucking smoothie?
7:03am
Ahhhhhhhhhh. Delicious Orange Dream Machine to the rescue.
7:05am
On Hwy 17 to the Hospital.
Babe, stop jerking the car! Can you drive a little more carefully? I am seriously feeling EVERY. LITTLE. BUMP.
7:10am
Jon called my parents to let them know we were on our way to the hospital. I could hear the giddy nervous excitement in his voice.
7:20am
We arrived at the hospital. I barely survived the “bumpy rough” ride over. I was clearly in no shape to walk. Jon quickly parked in the first space available, jumped out to grab the first person he saw in scrubs and convinced them to come meet us at the car with a wheelchair.
7:30am
This friendly ER nurse wheeled me into the Birthing Center while Jon parked the car. I was still toughing out the contractions as best I could, and trying to down as much of the Jamba Juice before the Nazi Nurses took it away.
7:35am
They took away my Jamba Juice. Damn Nazi Nurses.
7:40am
“Young Nurse” took my vitals and started hooking me up to a number of machines. She measured my blood pressure, oxygen levels, heart rate, Logan’s heart rate and contractions. I couldn’t move during the first set of tests so they could take a “baseline” of the contractions and Logan’s status. Those couple of minutes were excruciatingly long for me.
7:42am
Jon arrived, nervous, breathless, excited, in love.
7:45am
I told “Young Nurse” I better be in labor because I didn’t want her telling me I’d need to turn around and go back home.
7:50am
“Young Nurse” did a quick exam to assess how far along I was. With WIDE eyes she poked her head up from between my legs and informed us that I was already 7.5cm dilated.
You’re joking right?
Nope.
“Older Nurse”, who was in the room reading my vitals, said “Dear, you won’t be going home anytime soon. In fact, get ready to have your baby this morning.”
WTF.
7:51am
“Young Nurse” calls my doctor. Ummmm, you may want to get your ass over here pronto sir.
7:52am
Jon calls my dad to let him know how far along we are. My dad asks if it’s okay to come visit. Jon looks at me, wondering what I’ll say.
SURE. The more the merrier. I really don’t give a shit.
(Funny how contractions will do that to a person.)
7:55am
In the fetal position on the bed, puffing through my contractions while “Young Nurse” tells me I need to lay still for the machines to get another reading.
SCREW THE MACHINES LADY.
7:58am
“Young Nurse” asks if I'm planning on getting an epidural.
Nope. I've gone this far already, I think I'll be fine thank you very much.
8:00am
“Young Nurse” drills me with a million questions about my personal health history. Too many questions, hard to answer. Jon chimes in when I’m unable to. Do you really need to know if I’ve had X, Y and Z in the family?
8:05am
Here, I know you’re in active labor right now but I just need you to sign a few papers for us.
Take a breath and ride the contraction out.
Ok, now sign some more papers.
8:11am
My doctor arrives, quite calm and reserved as usual. We exchanged some meaningless howdeedoo chit chat and then he got down to business and examined me to confirm - yep, I was at 7.5cm.
With a bulging sack about ready to burst.
8:12am
My doctor asked me if we wanted him to break my waters or let it break naturally. I said leave it alone and let it happen naturally. No sense speeding up this insanely fast roller coaster ride any faster.
8:15am
My dad arrived, camera and all. I could hear him reading the machine which could “predict” when my next contraction was going to hit. I could hear him count down when the contraction was about to end. I was grateful he was there to help us out, even if he was clicking a few too many pictures while I was WRITHING on the bed in pain.
8:30am
Another exam (or two, who knows). Progressing quite well, but my waters still hadn’t broken yet. Sack was B-U-L-G-I-N-G. I was definitely starting to feel the pressure.
8:35am
Jon squeezes my hand and tells me he loves me. I love you too.
8:45am
Oh no. Babe, I need to POOP!! What if I poop on the bed, during delivery?
Will you still love me?
(I didn't poop.)
8:50am
My groans are getting louder and louder. I’m sure my neighbor in the room next door could hear. I didn’t really care though.
9:00am
Several exams later, I was ready to push. I wanted to push. I HAD to push. The pressure was unbelievable. I need to get this thing OUT OF ME AND OUT OF ME RIGHT NOW.
I was about 9.5-10cm dilated, yet my waters still hadn’t broke. “Young Nurse” came in and said ok let’s have you do a few pushes to help break your waters.
HALLELUJAH.
9:02am
“Young Nurse” and “Older Nurse” escort my father out of the room. Sir, you can wait in the waiting room now.
My father sits his butt down on one of the chairs in the hallway right outside our door.
9:10am
My mom arrives, just in time to hear me screaming with my first push.
9:12am
And boy did I scream.
I grip Jon’s hand and push with all my might.
POP!
My waters EXPLODED across the room. “Young Nurse” and Jon both enjoyed a refreshing bath.
We laughed for a minute.
Hey did you see how far the water shot out? Wow that was pretty cool. It just exploded all over the room!
Ok, back to business.
9:15am
I thought before I really needed to push. BOY WAS I WRONG. I had this huge urge to push push push.
“Older Nurse” says,
"Now, it usually takes 20 or so tries at pushing before you can get the hang of it, so let's just try one now"
OK. Sounds good to me.
9:20am
About 2-3 pushes later, AND THE LOUDEST SCREAMING YOU WILL EVER HEAR, Logan had descended quite a bit down the birthing canal – so much that, several nurses started running around in circles, calling for the on-call hospital doctor since they were afraid my own doctor wouldn’t get to the hospital in time (even though his office is literally across the street).
20 or so tries my ass.
Apparently, I’m a good pusher.
9:22am
At the arrival of each new contraction, the “Young Nurse” coaches me through another set of pushes.
I hold my breath, push as hard as I possibly can, screaming at the top of my lungs at the same time.
9:23am
In a single breath, the nurses tell me I’m doing a GREAT JOB pushing but if I blow out while I push, rather than scream, I’ll be much more efficient.
Thanks, but I’m in no mood for constructive criticism right now ladies.
9:25am
My OB shows up right away and has me push once and immediately notices that Logan is breech. He mumbles a few things under his breath that I don’t quite hear, but I vaguely notice the commotion it causes as nurses go scurrying about. A couple of them go running out the door frantically, under his orders to find an ultrasound right away.
He looks at me and calmly, but seriously, explains that he believes Logan is breech and he’s not sure if I can deliver him vaginally or not, and that I may need to get a c-section.
Sweat dripping down my face, gritting my teeth at each contraction, and yet I somehow had enough clarity to recognize the situation and tell him I didn’t care and I trusted whatever he thought best for me and the baby.
Honestly, I just wanted him out of me and delivered as safely as possible.
9:26am
Jon quickly stands up and whispers to me that he’s going to get my mom since he wasn’t feeling well. My doctor looks up from me, over to him and says SIT RIGHT BACK DOWN. You aren’t going anywhere. And orders one of the nurses to go get a wheelchair for Jon.
I suppose Jon did look a little green. I told him it was going to be alright, we were all going to be alright.
(Later I learned Jon was pretty upset by the news and apparently had visions of losing his wife and son all in one day).
9:30am
While waiting for the ultrasound, I’m still pushing little Logan out as fast as I possibly can. And, at one point, the nurses are all so preoccupied with the current events, that they’ve left me “stirrup less” and I’m literally in the middle of a contraction with not a hand or body to PUSH against!
So, legs in the air, flailing to find something to get a hold of, I find my doctor’s instrument table nearby and with one thrust send it flying across the floor, and nearly kicking my doctor in the face in the process (while he looked up from my crotch to see what all the commotion was about).
We laughed for a minute.
9:35am
A quick scan of my belly and my doctor confirmed that Logan was indeed breech.
The proverbial bells and whistles went off and all of a sudden our room was swarming with medical personnel.
9:37am
Good thing those hospital beds have wheels. I was moved into the OR in a matter of seconds. It felt like a scene from ER. Doctors were literally jogging beside my bed asking me questions, prepping me for surgery.
I feebly waved to my parents as I passed them in the hallway, panting and pushing my way through each wave of contraction. My doctor noticed them and asked if they were my parents and if I minded whether he gave them a quick update. Sure, no problem.
He hung back a few minutes to let my parents know what all the hub-bub was about, while I continued down the hall toward the tall doors of the OR room. Jon was nowhere in sight, but the nurses assured me they would be bringing him in shortly (in his wheelchair).
9:40am
My doctor consulted with the hospital OB about the situation – they were weighing the pros and cons of whether to allow me to continue to deliver Logan vaginally, or open me up and pull him out instead. There were risks to doing both at this late stage of the game.
Most everyone around me was serious yet alert and ultra focused. I knew that a breech baby was no good, but I don’t think I quite grasped the gravity of the situation. Even while lying there spread eagle in the OR.
I was too caught up in these contractions that had quite a hold on me.
9:42am
“Doctor Clueless Anesthesiologist” soon realized how much of a hold those contractions had on me. As he asked me questions about my health history (again) and what allergies, if any, I had to any medications, I stared blankly in his face and held up a finger motioning him to wait.
I barely had the breath to push thru yet another contraction. I really didn’t have time to waste answering “Doctor Clueless’s” questions. After the contraction was over I’d answer a word or two, and then hold up another finger and say “hold on a sec” and push through another contraction.
And yet, he didn’t seem to get it. And kept asking me questions.
CLEARLY I DON’T GIVE A SHIT ABOUT YOUR SURVEY RIGHT NOW MAN.
9:45am
Looks like we’re just going to continue vaginally. Keep on pushing!
9:50am
Bree, you’re going to feel a quick sting here.
Yep, pretty sharp sting doc. Not as bad as Logan’s butt pushing his way out though.
9:52am
And now you’re going to feel a little relief in the pressure.
Ahhhhh. Who said episiotomies were all bad?
9:55am
I feel everything. The pressure is insurmountable. I can’t push hard enough, fast enough, hard enough, fast enough. He wants out. I want him out.
10:00am
The nurses and doctors look up and comment that Mommy is looking a whole helluva lot better than Daddy right now.
Jon was pretty pale.
We laughed for a minute.
I squeeze his hand and he kisses my forehead and tells me he loves me.
10:10am
We’re almost there!! Logan’s butt comes out first.
He poops on my doctor.
10:17am
I can’t describe the feeling, but it’s weird. I feel his legs flop down as they follow his butt. And I tear.
And then his chest, and then his shoulders slide out next. VERY WEIRD. I can feel everything. Every bulge, every pressure, every elbow and knee. His head is the last to exit my body. RELIEF.
Before I know what is happening next, I have this slimy little black-smeared crying baby on my chest.
Logan Avery is born.
I look over at Jon who is by my side and we are both welling up with tears. Pride. Joy. Love.
10:20am
They wheel Jon out of the OR with Logan cuddled in his arms, to do all the initial baby assessments, weighing, measuring, etc. back at our room.
Meanwhile, my doctor was helping me deliver the placenta and trying to stop the bleeding. You think delivering a baby is painful? Try delivering a placenta while your doctor’s arm is inside you pressing as hard as he possibly can with wads of gauze stained dark red.
It took about an hour for my doctor to repair all the damage that was done, while Jon celebrated Logan’s first few breaths with my parents in our delivery room.
I was exhausted, but ecstatic, when we were finally done. They wheeled me back into my room so I could finally hold Logan in my arms.
And drink the rest of my Jamba Juice.
He was the cutest baby I had ever seen, looked exactly like Jon, and he was ours.
As I stared at his precious lips, his long eyelashes and marveled over his head of hair, memories of the past 6 hrs quickly vanished from my mind, forever.
Happy birthday, Logan. We couldn't have done it without you.
Monday, December 8, 2008
Two steps forward...
Logan took another couple of steps all on his own, toward me, when I picked him up from preschool today. He's still a little "teetery" when he tries walking, but you can see he wants to do it real bad. Over the weekend, and today during school (according to the teachers), he's been doing a lot more standing all on his own. And, standing up without any help from nearby furniture too!
Very exciting stuff.
His teacher thinks it'll be a week, at most, before he's walking all on his own, especially since it seems to be a psychological confidence hurdle he needs to overcome, more than anything. But, we'll see. If it's anything I've learned so far, it's that Logan will do what he wants when he wants.
Ahhhhh, a chip off the old block(s).
Very exciting stuff.
His teacher thinks it'll be a week, at most, before he's walking all on his own, especially since it seems to be a psychological confidence hurdle he needs to overcome, more than anything. But, we'll see. If it's anything I've learned so far, it's that Logan will do what he wants when he wants.
Ahhhhh, a chip off the old block(s).
Sunday, December 7, 2008
Like, oh my God, what a totally rad weekend!
It all started with the YouTube Totally 80s Prom (Holiday Party) Friday night. I didn't find out about the theme until Monday afternoon, and since I knew I was going to be traveling a few days of the week, I had to act FAST. So, our outfits were thrown together at the last minute. Sonny Crockett was my inspiration for Jon's outfit and I really don't know what look I was going for with mine (I guess I was thinking Madonna-wanna-be when buying all the accessories that of course you can't see). Next time, YouTube, I'll allow more time. ;-)
We had a really nice time out. There were so many wild and crazy 80s costumes. Just my kind of party!! :) Unfortunately, we didn't know TOO many people there, since Jon's group is so small and made up of more of the "old timers" who are apparently, too cool to go to the company parties anymore. ;-) We did, however, hang out with our buddies Kim and Nathan which is always fun. They went all out 80s punk and their costumes were seriously bitchin'.Yesterday I spent the entire day cooking like a mad woman for a dinner party of 9 (plus 4 babies) that I decided to host. It's the first big dinner party we've hosted ever, and I'm happy with how it turned out! I tried a few new recipes - some were a hit, others were gag-me-with-a-spoon not so great (if you ask Jon anyway). ;-) But all in all, the night was still a success and everyone had a great time. We ended with some intense poker, where Jenn took home the grand prize.
Today was mostly dedicated to clean up from the party (it's amazing how many pots and pans and dishes pile up with that many people over!) and setting up a few holiday lights in our yard so that we can add to the neighborhood festivities (something I've always wanted to do).This picture was taken from our porch late tonight, so not all of the neighbors' lights are still on, and yet you can see almost every house is lit! We also meandered down to a neighbor's house for a holiday party this evening - themselves, the new kids on the block as of a couple months ago.We're beat from the busy weekend, but isn't that what the holiday season is all about anyway? ;-)
Friday, December 5, 2008
Finally.
Logan's top left tooth (lateral incisor) has been threatening to show for a couple weeks now it seems - causing some really rough late nights for Jon and I. Thankfully, it has finally poked through over the last day or so (while I was away on business travel).
I'm hoping that means the pain will ease up a bit for our little guy so he won't be as grouchy and touchy as he has been lately. :)
I'm hoping that means the pain will ease up a bit for our little guy so he won't be as grouchy and touchy as he has been lately. :)
Thursday, December 4, 2008
Landing on Icy Runways is Fun!
Which is more exciting? That, or getting offered drugs by a random stranger ("It's a good muscle relaxant that will knock you out for the night" he said) at the back of a plane on my way out? :)
Monday, December 1, 2008
Is it December already??
Well, we got home late last night and though we had a wonderful time visiting with all of Jon's family over the Thanksgiving holiday, it was comforting to finally be back home in our own beds! :)Jon and I both quickly got back into the grind today - busier than ever as everyone tries to cram in more than they should before the end of the year. Logan had a pretty good first day back at school - although he was definitely more clingy and needy once we got home (as were our cats - yeesh!).
Besides his first couple of steps, Logan also learned to blow bubbles at Papa and Mimi's house, with his own spit no less. And, while at Abuelita and Abuelito Riedy's house, he learned how to crawl up on the hearth.What's more, he found he could dangle his feet over the edge and then SLAM, belly flop smack onto the floor beneath him (about a foot drop).
He did this several times and just laaaaaaughed and laughed and laughed each time.Aunt Amanda caught the last attempt on video, so hopefully I'll be able to share that with you once she sends it to me. :)
He's doing A LOT more standing on his own now - although he's only taken another step on his own since the first two. And, he's doing several sit-stands without the help of any furniture around him to pull himself up. Very exciting stuff! :)
Another interesting development we noticed on this trip is his understanding of words - we discovered this when both Jon and I said "good-bye" while Logan's back was to us, and he immediately raised up his hand and started waving good-bye! It's definitely a clue that he's much more aware of what we are saying than we realized. Eeeps! :)We're not sure if it was the distraction of new people and things all around him to see, or if it's a new phase we're entering, but we've also noticed that once Logan gets extremely tired, past exhaustion, he turns delirious. Yes, delirious. He becomes extremely hyper active, crawling and rolling around everywhere, laughing hysterically, biting at every spare limb you might have, launching himself off the bed or crawling as fast as he possibly can for the door (or opposite direction of you). We try not to laugh,
since we're usually trying to quiet things down and get him to sleep, but it's pretty damn funny to watch a baby who appears to be on crack slam his head into the pillows and then race for the other side of the bed, all the while giggling till he can't breathe.Thanks to all the grandparents and aunts we visited the past couple of weeks. We had a great time enjoying yummy foods, fun board games, football marathons and loving company away from home!! :)
Here's Logan with his buddy Daphne who faithfully stayed by his side the entire time we were in Texas; even checking in on me anytime I took him upstairs for a diaper change, watching me with eyes that said "You better not be doing anything to that precious baby of mine Lady!"
Thursday, November 27, 2008
A Time of Thanks
We are now in the Tri-City area of Eastern Washington to visit the other half of Jon's family. We flew into Portland late Monday night - had a rough time on the flight and by the time we got into our hotel, all three of us were exhausted and a little fussy. I'm glad we decided to spend the night in Portland rather than jumping into a car for Jon's mom's house after the flight (a 3.5 hour drive).
Tuesday we spent all day walking around downtown Portland - it rained on and off all day and our big accomplishment was finding just the right gloves for Jon and me - it was freezing! But, we enjoyed the time outside exploring the city nonetheless. :) We arrived into Richland late Tuesday evening in time for dinner and then bed - whew!
We've been visiting with family and eating to our hearts' content (good bye diet!) and thoroughly enjoying the time away from home. Of course, Logan is the center of attention and is absolutely LOVING it. I'm not sure how he's going to handle the change once we get home and Mommy and Daddy can't dote on him 24x7 like his grandparents and aunts are doing. ;-)
I'm thankful for a wonderful first year with our beautiful baby boy. I'm thankful I have such a loving and supportive life partner, friend, lover and husband. I'm thankful for our gorgeous new house that we were able to purchase right before Logan arrived. I'm thankful that Jon and I are both blessed with amazing jobs that allow us the flexibility to travel, see friends and family, take care of Logan and live the happy lifestyle that we have grown accustomed to. I'm thankful for our friends who help us through the good times and bad, who share their tips on babycare so we might not run into the same mistakes when it's our turn and of course, who babysit our furry babies when we are away, even if they may be a bit hard to handle at times. ;-) I'm thankful for the huge network of family that we have at our fingertips - who all adore Logan to pieces and help watch him from time to time so that Jon and I are still able to have a date or two on our own, to help us keep sane amidst the daily chaos that we live.
Thanks to all who have made our past year so treasurable - we wish you as great, or greater, Thanksgiving!
Tuesday we spent all day walking around downtown Portland - it rained on and off all day and our big accomplishment was finding just the right gloves for Jon and me - it was freezing! But, we enjoyed the time outside exploring the city nonetheless. :) We arrived into Richland late Tuesday evening in time for dinner and then bed - whew!
We've been visiting with family and eating to our hearts' content (good bye diet!) and thoroughly enjoying the time away from home. Of course, Logan is the center of attention and is absolutely LOVING it. I'm not sure how he's going to handle the change once we get home and Mommy and Daddy can't dote on him 24x7 like his grandparents and aunts are doing. ;-)
I'm thankful for a wonderful first year with our beautiful baby boy. I'm thankful I have such a loving and supportive life partner, friend, lover and husband. I'm thankful for our gorgeous new house that we were able to purchase right before Logan arrived. I'm thankful that Jon and I are both blessed with amazing jobs that allow us the flexibility to travel, see friends and family, take care of Logan and live the happy lifestyle that we have grown accustomed to. I'm thankful for our friends who help us through the good times and bad, who share their tips on babycare so we might not run into the same mistakes when it's our turn and of course, who babysit our furry babies when we are away, even if they may be a bit hard to handle at times. ;-) I'm thankful for the huge network of family that we have at our fingertips - who all adore Logan to pieces and help watch him from time to time so that Jon and I are still able to have a date or two on our own, to help us keep sane amidst the daily chaos that we live.
Thanks to all who have made our past year so treasurable - we wish you as great, or greater, Thanksgiving!
Saturday, November 22, 2008
Relaxin' in Texas
I was scrambling at the last minute yesterday to get to my flight on time. Let's just say I should have been at the airport at 1pm, yet I was in the shower at 12:30pm.... I begged the airport guy to let me on the plane, telling him I didn't even care if my luggage made it, I just had to be on that plane! :)
I guess it worked since he smiled and let me through. *whew*
I also ran into a really nasty rude woman on the plane, but decided to keep my trap shut and ignore her. The guy next to me wasn't as thoughtful and blurted out a few choice words to her, which had her literally in tears, all before take off. Good times!
When I arrived late last night, Jon had wonderfully big news to tell. Logan had taken two steps toward Nolan ("Papa") all on his own!! We are so excited and I can't wait to see the walking action with my own two eyes. :)
We're doing nothing but eating tons of ridiculously decadent southern food and relaxing (I just got back from an out-of-this-world MUCH NEEDED massage).
Life is good when you're on vacation and stressful work is a thousand miles away.
I guess it worked since he smiled and let me through. *whew*
I also ran into a really nasty rude woman on the plane, but decided to keep my trap shut and ignore her. The guy next to me wasn't as thoughtful and blurted out a few choice words to her, which had her literally in tears, all before take off. Good times!
When I arrived late last night, Jon had wonderfully big news to tell. Logan had taken two steps toward Nolan ("Papa") all on his own!! We are so excited and I can't wait to see the walking action with my own two eyes. :)
We're doing nothing but eating tons of ridiculously decadent southern food and relaxing (I just got back from an out-of-this-world MUCH NEEDED massage).
Life is good when you're on vacation and stressful work is a thousand miles away.
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Silent Night
I dropped Jon and Logan off at the airport this morning. I went in with them to help Jon carry all the crap. Or rather, I carried Logan and the diaper bag while Jon had the bulk of the big stuff on his back.
At the security line, I had to transfer Logan over to Jon. I helped strap the Ergo Carrier onto Jon and load Logan up. During the transfer, Logan kept looking at me - his expression said it all - Mom, why are you handing me over to Dad? Where are you going?
It's okay kiddo - you're going to have a great time flying to Texas with Daddy and then I will see you soon, tomorrow night.
Was I saying that to assure Logan everything would be all right? or to assure myself? :)
Once Jon was loaded up and ready to go, we kissed good-bye and he took off toward the security gate. Jon's back was to me, but as I watched them walk away, I suddenly saw Logan's little face with inquiring eyes poke out, over Jon's shoulder. He was leaning far to one side so he could keep his eyes on me (I wish I had taken a pic, it was so precious).
I waved good bye, walking closer to the railings so he could still see me - and, the poor little guy kept his eyes on me the entire time while Jon checked on through.
I sure am going to miss my guys tonight.
On the other hand, I'll finally get an uninterrupted night's sleep. WOO!!
At the security line, I had to transfer Logan over to Jon. I helped strap the Ergo Carrier onto Jon and load Logan up. During the transfer, Logan kept looking at me - his expression said it all - Mom, why are you handing me over to Dad? Where are you going?
It's okay kiddo - you're going to have a great time flying to Texas with Daddy and then I will see you soon, tomorrow night.
Was I saying that to assure Logan everything would be all right? or to assure myself? :)
Once Jon was loaded up and ready to go, we kissed good-bye and he took off toward the security gate. Jon's back was to me, but as I watched them walk away, I suddenly saw Logan's little face with inquiring eyes poke out, over Jon's shoulder. He was leaning far to one side so he could keep his eyes on me (I wish I had taken a pic, it was so precious).
I waved good bye, walking closer to the railings so he could still see me - and, the poor little guy kept his eyes on me the entire time while Jon checked on through.
I sure am going to miss my guys tonight.
On the other hand, I'll finally get an uninterrupted night's sleep. WOO!!
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
For Adults Only
Last Saturday we had a really nice dinner at Roy's in Pebble Beach with three other couples, sans babies. And, even tho I had plenty on my mind, Jon and I still got all dressed up and enjoyed the downtime together.
Proof that we DO still do things alone once in awhile....
(Thanks to my parents for babysitting all evening!)
In other news, Logan has been consistently waking up about 3am every night for the past few days, which has really been wreaking havoc on our lives (Jon has been a real trooper and handling most of the night calls since my work hours have been keeping me up both early and late).
We're pretty sure he's teething, since we see some more white underneath his swollen little gums, poor kid. Hopefully the teeth will break thru before Jon and Logan's flight tomorrow, otherwise Jon is definitely going to have his hands full! :(
Proof that we DO still do things alone once in awhile....
(Thanks to my parents for babysitting all evening!)
In other news, Logan has been consistently waking up about 3am every night for the past few days, which has really been wreaking havoc on our lives (Jon has been a real trooper and handling most of the night calls since my work hours have been keeping me up both early and late).
We're pretty sure he's teething, since we see some more white underneath his swollen little gums, poor kid. Hopefully the teeth will break thru before Jon and Logan's flight tomorrow, otherwise Jon is definitely going to have his hands full! :(
Sunday, November 16, 2008
Stress
I try to hide my stress as much as possible, but sometimes there is so much going on, that I can't quite keep my head above water.
This last week, and the following couple of weeks, I'll be sputtering water, sucking air, and basically just trying to survive.
What does this mean? Short quick blog posts, if any at all.
This last week, I traveled to Sacramento for the Professional Business Women of California's Annual Conference. Great speakers, good presentations (which I hope to tell you about later when I can), but boy was I distracted. Just 5 minutes before hopping in the car to take off for 2 days, my boss asks, pleads and begs me to create a project plan for a multi-million dollar deal we are trying to win.
Sure, I can work on that for you. I'll be gone the next couple of days, but I can start meeting with team members when I get back into the office on Friday and we can start hashing out the plan over the next couple of weeks. When do you need it by?
Tuesday morning. NEXT Tuesday morning.
And oh by the way, can you attend and present, since the client will be visiting onsite that day and will want to meet you? (why? because apparently in our proposal I've been named as the potential PM, on an engagement I know nothing about)
WTF.
I mean, WHAT. THE. FUCK.
Putting together a "quick" project plan for a huge deal is time consuming when that is ALL you have to do.
But when you are gone for two days at a business conference, and then working your tail off to smooth over last minute fires for a (different) client launch scheduled next Wednesday morning (that is also a multi-million dollar deal and has ALL executive management watching my every move), then creating a project plan out of thin air, on an engagement you really know nothing about, because remember you just heard about this opportunity 5 minutes before hopping in the car Wednesday night, is pretty much damn near impossible.
And, as much as I have become pretty skilled at masking my stress levels, my heart definitely has been beating faster all weekend long as I work against the clock. My mind has been racing 100 miles faster than it usually does. Visualizing all I need to get done, while I rock my baby to sleep, praying this night he will actually sleep through the night and give us some peace and quiet.
Peace and quiet I need so I can clear my head and get some work done.
My PT shakes her finger at me any time she hears about my work life intruding into my home life. Any time she sees the stress levels rising higher than they normally do for a Silicon Valley go-getter. I wonder what she will say tomorrow after I tell her this recent development of events? I know my back has been hurting more because of it, that's for sure. I feel like I already need another vacation! ;-)
Speaking of, Jon and Logan leave on Thursday for our Thanksgiving travels, and I leave Friday afternoon to catch up with them. We'll be visiting Jon's parents in Texas and Washington over the holidays - and the break couldn't come at a better time.
Let's just hope I can keep it together until then.
This last week, and the following couple of weeks, I'll be sputtering water, sucking air, and basically just trying to survive.
What does this mean? Short quick blog posts, if any at all.
This last week, I traveled to Sacramento for the Professional Business Women of California's Annual Conference. Great speakers, good presentations (which I hope to tell you about later when I can), but boy was I distracted. Just 5 minutes before hopping in the car to take off for 2 days, my boss asks, pleads and begs me to create a project plan for a multi-million dollar deal we are trying to win.
Sure, I can work on that for you. I'll be gone the next couple of days, but I can start meeting with team members when I get back into the office on Friday and we can start hashing out the plan over the next couple of weeks. When do you need it by?
Tuesday morning. NEXT Tuesday morning.
And oh by the way, can you attend and present, since the client will be visiting onsite that day and will want to meet you? (why? because apparently in our proposal I've been named as the potential PM, on an engagement I know nothing about)
WTF.
I mean, WHAT. THE. FUCK.
Putting together a "quick" project plan for a huge deal is time consuming when that is ALL you have to do.
But when you are gone for two days at a business conference, and then working your tail off to smooth over last minute fires for a (different) client launch scheduled next Wednesday morning (that is also a multi-million dollar deal and has ALL executive management watching my every move), then creating a project plan out of thin air, on an engagement you really know nothing about, because remember you just heard about this opportunity 5 minutes before hopping in the car Wednesday night, is pretty much damn near impossible.
And, as much as I have become pretty skilled at masking my stress levels, my heart definitely has been beating faster all weekend long as I work against the clock. My mind has been racing 100 miles faster than it usually does. Visualizing all I need to get done, while I rock my baby to sleep, praying this night he will actually sleep through the night and give us some peace and quiet.
Peace and quiet I need so I can clear my head and get some work done.
My PT shakes her finger at me any time she hears about my work life intruding into my home life. Any time she sees the stress levels rising higher than they normally do for a Silicon Valley go-getter. I wonder what she will say tomorrow after I tell her this recent development of events? I know my back has been hurting more because of it, that's for sure. I feel like I already need another vacation! ;-)
Speaking of, Jon and Logan leave on Thursday for our Thanksgiving travels, and I leave Friday afternoon to catch up with them. We'll be visiting Jon's parents in Texas and Washington over the holidays - and the break couldn't come at a better time.
Let's just hope I can keep it together until then.
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
On pins and needles
You know you're desperate when you pay a kooky old hippie a handful of cash to stick a bunch of needles into your body, hoping that these needles will actually relieve the chronic pain and inflammation you're experiencing.
At least, that's what the acupuncturist sold me on yesterday afternoon.
I haven't decided 100% yet, if I'm going to see an acupuncturist full time for my foot and back injuries. But, I decided to give it a try yesterday and see what I thought.
It's definitely strange to wrap my head around the different philosophy of eastern vs. western medicine. Cold is bad for your body (it sucks you dry), whereas hot is good (creates better blood flow and circulation). Which is, of course, opposite of what my PT has been training me to do (ice pack 1-2x a day, every day!).
The procedure itself was pretty easy and painless. I had maybe 12-15 needles stuck in my lower back, hips and down my legs. I felt maybe 1-2 of them (a teeeeeny tiny pinch). After that, he messed with a few of them in my back, I'm not sure exactly what he was doing, but I'm assuming twisting or driving them in deeper for a better effect. He kept asking me "do you feel that?" and I kept saying nope, nope, not yet, nope. Until WHOOSH. I got really light headed and tingly.
So, he stopped and said that was enough for the day - and left me to rest under heat lamps for a good 30-45 min.
I was a little anxious through the entire procedure, so I couldn't relax or let myself go completely. That, complicated with the fact that I was face down in a massage table, with a stupid head cold where I could NOT breathe one bit, meant I didn't drift off to sleep like I (and my acupuncturist I'm sure) expected. :)
After the "rest time" was up - he came back in, removed all the needles, and rubbed a eucalyptic type of oil on my back to really "spread" the treatment down my back and through my body.
I'm not sure if it worked, but it smelled good. ;-)
So, the jury is still out. I'm pretty open to different medicines and approaches to regaining my health, since I'm tired of dealing with the constant aches and pains and quite honestly...
I am desperate.
At least, that's what the acupuncturist sold me on yesterday afternoon.
I haven't decided 100% yet, if I'm going to see an acupuncturist full time for my foot and back injuries. But, I decided to give it a try yesterday and see what I thought.
It's definitely strange to wrap my head around the different philosophy of eastern vs. western medicine. Cold is bad for your body (it sucks you dry), whereas hot is good (creates better blood flow and circulation). Which is, of course, opposite of what my PT has been training me to do (ice pack 1-2x a day, every day!).
The procedure itself was pretty easy and painless. I had maybe 12-15 needles stuck in my lower back, hips and down my legs. I felt maybe 1-2 of them (a teeeeeny tiny pinch). After that, he messed with a few of them in my back, I'm not sure exactly what he was doing, but I'm assuming twisting or driving them in deeper for a better effect. He kept asking me "do you feel that?" and I kept saying nope, nope, not yet, nope. Until WHOOSH. I got really light headed and tingly.
So, he stopped and said that was enough for the day - and left me to rest under heat lamps for a good 30-45 min.
I was a little anxious through the entire procedure, so I couldn't relax or let myself go completely. That, complicated with the fact that I was face down in a massage table, with a stupid head cold where I could NOT breathe one bit, meant I didn't drift off to sleep like I (and my acupuncturist I'm sure) expected. :)
After the "rest time" was up - he came back in, removed all the needles, and rubbed a eucalyptic type of oil on my back to really "spread" the treatment down my back and through my body.
I'm not sure if it worked, but it smelled good. ;-)
So, the jury is still out. I'm pretty open to different medicines and approaches to regaining my health, since I'm tired of dealing with the constant aches and pains and quite honestly...
I am desperate.
Monday, November 10, 2008
11 months old
Every minute, hour, day and month that passes by with Logan in our lives, I find such joy in getting to know our son. Today, Logan turned 11 months old - and in just one short month he'll have been with us a full year. WOW.
I have caught myself a few times now, already saying things like "when he was little", as if he's no longer a little baby. But, he doesn't feel little to us anymore! We're definitely transitioning into toddler-dom I think. He's extremely active with quite a personality (and such a flirt to all the women). He's also very loud and impatient, reminding me of his Daddy. ;-)
He is a fast little guy - cruising around the furniture like a pro and when that's not quite fast enough, he'll plop down on the floor, crawl cheetah-fast right over to you, and then pull himself up again so he's near you. He hasn't yet walked on his own, but he's doing plenty of it assisted with either his walker toy or pushing kid-height stuff (like his toy box or the ottoman) in front of him.
I can see he really wants to walk - every time we are near "bigger" kids (who are already walking or running) he is keenly interested in watching them play, leaning way out to one side of my arms, looking over my shoulder, studying their every move. And, on several occasions, we've caught him testing his own balance by standing and letting go of things, usually when he's next to me, which my dad thinks is because he feels safer and more confident when he's with me. We'll see. He may be running around the house before we know it.
In general, Logan is a fairly good natured little guy. However, it feels like he's been out of sorts more than usual this past month. I'm pretty sure it's a combination of adjusting back to preschool after our big family vacation, topped with the growing pains of new teeth coming in. His 5th tooth poked through over the last month and the gums around his others are pretty swollen as well. Often times we now find him gnawing on his own fingers. At least he knows how to self soothe?
Another leap into toddler-dom may just be all the new foods we are feeding Logan. No more is the easy brainless world of pick a baby jar off the shelf and spoon it into our son's mouth. Oh no. Now I have to think about what to make for him; breakfast, lunch and dinner. He's eating "real" food - pasta, steamed veggies, sandwiches, mac n' cheese, you name it. It's definitely made meals more challenging for me, but I'm so glad to see his growing interest in food!
Just the other day, Jon walked in the door with Logan chatting away as happy as ever. But, what was different were the sounds and syllables he was making. We hadn't heard him "talk" these words before! The closest thing I can relate it to would be "doggydoggydoggydoggy". ;-) He doesn't yet associate the sounds with any real meaning, that we can tell, but it's definitely apparent he's building his vocabulary day by day. It's also a red flag to us that we need to point out new things we see and do more often, describing them so he can hear, mimic and learn.
Logan celebrates in many ways. He celebrated when Barack Obama was elected the 44th President of the United States, by sleeping soundly through the night. He celebrated when Daddy bought him a baby kilt (of the McDonald clan), by crawling all over the living room rug, collecting as much dog fur on it as possible. And he celebrates the end of each meal, by sharing his leftovers with the dogs, laughing as they lick every last morsel of food off his chubby little fingers.
Speaking of sharing, Logan is learning there is more to life than just himself. He's learning to share! Now, no matter what he finds or picks up to inspect, he MUST offer it to me or Jon as well. If it's his food, he'll put it in our mouths, if it's a toy, he places it in our laps.
We of course, return the favor and "share" the item back, which he is so tickled about. In fact, sometimes, perhaps when he is impatient and can't wait for the game of give and take to run its course, he offers to share a toy, but then quickly takes it back before I get a chance to say thank you and take it. Of course, our smart little cookie knows exactly what he's doing - waiting for the surprised confused look on my face with a HUGE grin on his. And that's when I tell him to stop being an Indian giver.
In California, though recommended, apparently Logan's car seat is not required to be rear facing (I had been holding out until he reached age 1, because I thought that was the requirement before we could turn his seat around). So, we recently turned him forward facing so that his little legs and feet wouldn't continue to smoosh up and get cramped against the seat backs of our car.
It's a little weird driving around town now, seeing him RIGHT THERE, staring back at me. But, it's also a lot more fun to talk to him about his day as we drive home from school. Logan seems to like the change too - he's now able to kick his feet more freely and babble loudly direct in my ear, to make sure I'm listening to his stories.
Don't worry kiddo, I'm always listening.
I have caught myself a few times now, already saying things like "when he was little", as if he's no longer a little baby. But, he doesn't feel little to us anymore! We're definitely transitioning into toddler-dom I think. He's extremely active with quite a personality (and such a flirt to all the women). He's also very loud and impatient, reminding me of his Daddy. ;-)
He is a fast little guy - cruising around the furniture like a pro and when that's not quite fast enough, he'll plop down on the floor, crawl cheetah-fast right over to you, and then pull himself up again so he's near you. He hasn't yet walked on his own, but he's doing plenty of it assisted with either his walker toy or pushing kid-height stuff (like his toy box or the ottoman) in front of him.I can see he really wants to walk - every time we are near "bigger" kids (who are already walking or running) he is keenly interested in watching them play, leaning way out to one side of my arms, looking over my shoulder, studying their every move. And, on several occasions, we've caught him testing his own balance by standing and letting go of things, usually when he's next to me, which my dad thinks is because he feels safer and more confident when he's with me. We'll see. He may be running around the house before we know it.
In general, Logan is a fairly good natured little guy. However, it feels like he's been out of sorts more than usual this past month. I'm pretty sure it's a combination of adjusting back to preschool after our big family vacation, topped with the growing pains of new teeth coming in. His 5th tooth poked through over the last month and the gums around his others are pretty swollen as well. Often times we now find him gnawing on his own fingers. At least he knows how to self soothe?Another leap into toddler-dom may just be all the new foods we are feeding Logan. No more is the easy brainless world of pick a baby jar off the shelf and spoon it into our son's mouth. Oh no. Now I have to think about what to make for him; breakfast, lunch and dinner. He's eating "real" food - pasta, steamed veggies, sandwiches, mac n' cheese, you name it. It's definitely made meals more challenging for me, but I'm so glad to see his growing interest in food!
Just the other day, Jon walked in the door with Logan chatting away as happy as ever. But, what was different were the sounds and syllables he was making. We hadn't heard him "talk" these words before! The closest thing I can relate it to would be "doggydoggydoggydoggy". ;-) He doesn't yet associate the sounds with any real meaning, that we can tell, but it's definitely apparent he's building his vocabulary day by day. It's also a red flag to us that we need to point out new things we see and do more often, describing them so he can hear, mimic and learn.
Logan celebrates in many ways. He celebrated when Barack Obama was elected the 44th President of the United States, by sleeping soundly through the night. He celebrated when Daddy bought him a baby kilt (of the McDonald clan), by crawling all over the living room rug, collecting as much dog fur on it as possible. And he celebrates the end of each meal, by sharing his leftovers with the dogs, laughing as they lick every last morsel of food off his chubby little fingers.Speaking of sharing, Logan is learning there is more to life than just himself. He's learning to share! Now, no matter what he finds or picks up to inspect, he MUST offer it to me or Jon as well. If it's his food, he'll put it in our mouths, if it's a toy, he places it in our laps.
We of course, return the favor and "share" the item back, which he is so tickled about. In fact, sometimes, perhaps when he is impatient and can't wait for the game of give and take to run its course, he offers to share a toy, but then quickly takes it back before I get a chance to say thank you and take it. Of course, our smart little cookie knows exactly what he's doing - waiting for the surprised confused look on my face with a HUGE grin on his. And that's when I tell him to stop being an Indian giver.In California, though recommended, apparently Logan's car seat is not required to be rear facing (I had been holding out until he reached age 1, because I thought that was the requirement before we could turn his seat around). So, we recently turned him forward facing so that his little legs and feet wouldn't continue to smoosh up and get cramped against the seat backs of our car.It's a little weird driving around town now, seeing him RIGHT THERE, staring back at me. But, it's also a lot more fun to talk to him about his day as we drive home from school. Logan seems to like the change too - he's now able to kick his feet more freely and babble loudly direct in my ear, to make sure I'm listening to his stories.
Don't worry kiddo, I'm always listening.
Sunday, November 9, 2008
Day 15: Homeward Bound
Oct 5th
Our last day in New Zealand. :(
We woke up a little late - whoops! So we all were running around, packing everything up and showering, etc. to check out by 11am (everywhere in NZ, checkout is 10am, and when you ask for a late checkout they say ok, 10:30....yeah, we were late. *sigh*)
Once we checked out we headed back downtown to Vudu Cafe, a joint Jill read about that had a great breakfast. And it WAS good! I got pancakes with lemon butter - super yum! (me being the lemon whore that I am) We bought a few more last minute gifts, took some pics of the lake - of course TODAY the weather was gorgeous! - and then headed out to the airport.
Our check in was painless (we were the only ones in line to check in) and since we left from a small airport, the security check in was REALLY easy and quick (highly suggest leaving out of a small airport when traveling, if you can!)
Our flight to Auckland went okay. Logan was tired but he had trouble falling asleep - and was loud as usual. ;-) And, it was pretty crowded (Jon had the aisle, Logan was on my lap in the middle seat and some poor guy was hunched over trying to sleep and ignore Logan, in the window seat). But, he did finally fall asleep toward the end of the flight and slept through our lunch/dinner (on me in the Ergo carrier) at the Auckland airport. I had another "made to order" sandwich that was again, delish! Too bad I discovered them so late in our trip...
Our flight to SFO was delayed so we sat around the Auckland airport for another 1.5 hours. But we didn't mind too much. It gave us more time to exercise and wear Logan out. :) Sure enough, immediately upon takeoff, he fell asleep....and THIS time he slept a full EIGHT HOURS!
Woohoo!!
The flight wasn't crowded at all, so Jon and I got a full row to ourselves with Eric and Jill in the row behind us. We put Logan in the "far" bassinet (over the seats next to us) and I laid down across three seats to rest my back while Jon reclined in his one. Unfortunately, we still didn't sleep all that well since it was pretty uncomfortable (the arm rests in our row didn't move up so I was playing twister maneuvering my body around them) - but at least Logan was sleeping. :)
Logan woke up about 5:30am NZ time which was about 9:30am SFO time, so others on the plane were starting to stir and wake up too. Perfect! I thought. I won't feel so bad then if he is loud. I didn't have to worry though - he really wasn't that noisy at all. He sat on the floor playing at our feet, crawling around and walking along the seats back and forth between us (Jon sat at one end of the row and I at the other). He was awake for about 1.5 hours before conking out again (on me) - and slept through the last hour or so of the flight.
I think many people were surprised there was a baby in our row. When we landed, several people commented on how great he had behaved. We couldn't have been prouder, or more relieved (we didn't mention how we struggled with him on the flight out).
We gathered our luggage and breezed through customs. We said our goodbyes to Eric and Jill since they had a connecting flight back home to San Diego and were routed down a different path. It was sad to see them go and end our trip, but it was a relief to finally be back home.
Where to next?
Editor's Note: Eric took some AMAZING portraits of us during our trip. Since I don’t have any (good) pics of our last day, I decided to feature a few of his collection instead. I encourage you to check out his entire album when you have the chance. Thank you again Eric - we love them!!
Our last day in New Zealand. :(
We woke up a little late - whoops! So we all were running around, packing everything up and showering, etc. to check out by 11am (everywhere in NZ, checkout is 10am, and when you ask for a late checkout they say ok, 10:30....yeah, we were late. *sigh*)Once we checked out we headed back downtown to Vudu Cafe, a joint Jill read about that had a great breakfast. And it WAS good! I got pancakes with lemon butter - super yum! (me being the lemon whore that I am) We bought a few more last minute gifts, took some pics of the lake - of course TODAY the weather was gorgeous! - and then headed out to the airport.Our check in was painless (we were the only ones in line to check in) and since we left from a small airport, the security check in was REALLY easy and quick (highly suggest leaving out of a small airport when traveling, if you can!)
Our flight to Auckland went okay. Logan was tired but he had trouble falling asleep - and was loud as usual. ;-) And, it was pretty crowded (Jon had the aisle, Logan was on my lap in the middle seat and some poor guy was hunched over trying to sleep and ignore Logan, in the window seat). But, he did finally fall asleep toward the end of the flight and slept through our lunch/dinner (on me in the Ergo carrier) at the Auckland airport. I had another "made to order" sandwich that was again, delish! Too bad I discovered them so late in our trip...Our flight to SFO was delayed so we sat around the Auckland airport for another 1.5 hours. But we didn't mind too much. It gave us more time to exercise and wear Logan out. :) Sure enough, immediately upon takeoff, he fell asleep....and THIS time he slept a full EIGHT HOURS!Woohoo!!
The flight wasn't crowded at all, so Jon and I got a full row to ourselves with Eric and Jill in the row behind us. We put Logan in the "far" bassinet (over the seats next to us) and I laid down across three seats to rest my back while Jon reclined in his one. Unfortunately, we still didn't sleep all that well since it was pretty uncomfortable (the arm rests in our row didn't move up so I was playing twister maneuvering my body around them) - but at least Logan was sleeping. :)
Logan woke up about 5:30am NZ time which was about 9:30am SFO time, so others on the plane were starting to stir and wake up too. Perfect! I thought. I won't feel so bad then if he is loud. I didn't have to worry though - he really wasn't that noisy at all. He sat on the floor playing at our feet, crawling around and walking along the seats back and forth between us (Jon sat at one end of the row and I at the other). He was awake for about 1.5 hours before conking out again (on me) - and slept through the last hour or so of the flight.I think many people were surprised there was a baby in our row. When we landed, several people commented on how great he had behaved. We couldn't have been prouder, or more relieved (we didn't mention how we struggled with him on the flight out).
We gathered our luggage and breezed through customs. We said our goodbyes to Eric and Jill since they had a connecting flight back home to San Diego and were routed down a different path. It was sad to see them go and end our trip, but it was a relief to finally be back home.Where to next?
Editor's Note: Eric took some AMAZING portraits of us during our trip. Since I don’t have any (good) pics of our last day, I decided to feature a few of his collection instead. I encourage you to check out his entire album when you have the chance. Thank you again Eric - we love them!!
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