Chase has decided that sleeping during the day is not essential... mommy disagrees. For anyone that has been around a baby, you know they usually win. Enter our week. I haven't figured out why exactly he won't sleep... gas, sleeping with one arm out of the swaddler, sheer will to not miss anything... I am still guessing. I am leaning towards very bad gas but I am running out of remedies. I have 2 more tricks to employ... wish me luck.
About the space bags... I have mixed feelings about them. Yes, they do compress the clothing and I would imagine that in the long run, there is some space saving happening. However, I bought 2 'medium' size (rather small if you ask me ;~) bags for $10 and I barely made a dent in Chase's newborn clothing. So by my calculations... yeah, this could cost A LOT. On the scale of should I invest... it tips to no. The space saving is not enough to off set the cost of the bags. I happen to have some plastic storage bins that will do just fine to keep our clothes and blankets safe from harm.
So Adam found this fantastic program online where you can put in the dimensions of your home, pick the furniture you have and start rearranging... without all the dragging around of the real stuff. We have been using it to decide what furniture we are going to keep in the cottage and what is going to the basement. While doing that, we figured out that we are going from 1200 sq. ft. to 400 sq. ft... now that is some extreme downsizing. On a positive note, this will definitely teach us how to live with less! We are making plans to start packing and purging this weekend!
Why am I doing this? So I can stay home for moments like this...
Friday, June 27, 2008
Sunday, June 22, 2008
Once the landlord knows...
it's official.
We will be moving on Aug 23 and vacating the apartment by Sept 1. Our landlord came over to fix something and we went ahead and let him know. He has been so great to us over the past 2.5 years... we wanted to give him a decent heads up. Plus we just know there is no way we can stay here. We sat down and really looked at our budget and while we do have choices, the best one is absolutely to move to Hagerstown.
To be precise... moving in with Adam's parents in Hagerstown. Yep... you heard correctly... moving back in with the parents. I have now done this twice (and I wasn't sorry the first time!) It is quite strange to be teetering on the edge of 30 and moving in with my husbands parents but we have thought long and hard about this and it really is the best move for us. We will be living in the cottage hideaway which has 1 bedroom, living room and a small kitchen. Please don't ask, I am not sure where everything will go... (mostly in their basement! HA!) but I am sure that Adam and I can make it work ;~)
We are doing this for a few big reasons... 1. so I can remain a stay at home mom. As well as being my career choice, I believe whole-heartedly in what I do and it is what is best for our family. 2. financial reasons... more than just not having the second income, Adam and I are hell bent dedicated to paying off one of his 2 student loans before we buy a house. It is half the $$ of the other loan but the payments are twice as much because of the percentage. It would free us up so much in the future to knock it out now. We are BIG believers in the Dave Ramsey way of life and are trying to live by his motto "Live like no one else today so you can live like no one else tomorrow." 3. family... I am very excited about the prospect of Chase really getting to know his Grandma and Grandpa and I know they are extremely excited to have him right next door!
I have already begun the process of purging again. Everywhere I look, I think "do we really need that?" Most of it is a yes since we have done this a multitude of times but I still find stuff here and there to give away. Just recently I ransacked my wardrobe and sent half of it out the door! Oh, and I made the leap to try these and I am now a believer. I will be re-evaluating how I pack up blankets, Chase's clothes and our off season clothes! (Christine, have you tried yours yet???)
For those of you in the area (and if any of you others would like to fly in) I think we will be doing a little "We're outta here" shindig at our house in the near future!!
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
My husband is famous!
So about 3 weeks ago Verizon sold over 12,000 unpublished Hagerstown numbers to a phone book company which promptly published them. Since this happened in Hagerstown Adam was immediately aware and has been a part of the proceedings ever since. He has been tracking Verizon's movements (they were brought before the Public Service Commission and told to come up with something better than a $25 credit and the offer to change their number). He also set up his law firms site with a contact form for those affected. He was interviewed at the PSC which aired on the local stations in Hagerstown and he has also been interviewed by a couple different newspapers (including the Herald-Mail which most people in Hagerstown read!)
I don't mean to sound excited about Verizon selling these numbers because it isn't at all exciting. For some of the people affected, it is downright scary. I think of the police officers that have put people away, lawyers and judges that have prosecuted and sentenced criminals, women that have been hiding to avoid an abusive spouse. The list could go on forever. I am sad for everyone that feels exposed because of this. What I am happy about is the fact that my husband is part of the solution. He is directly connected to these people and really wants to see justice done for them. Also, this is why he became a lawyer in the first place... to fight for the 'little man'... those that might not have a voice otherwise.
If you are interested here are some of the articles and write ups about the situation.
Consumerist
Your4State
Adam's Blog
Herald Mail
Anyway, I just thought I would brag on my husband for a few!
I don't mean to sound excited about Verizon selling these numbers because it isn't at all exciting. For some of the people affected, it is downright scary. I think of the police officers that have put people away, lawyers and judges that have prosecuted and sentenced criminals, women that have been hiding to avoid an abusive spouse. The list could go on forever. I am sad for everyone that feels exposed because of this. What I am happy about is the fact that my husband is part of the solution. He is directly connected to these people and really wants to see justice done for them. Also, this is why he became a lawyer in the first place... to fight for the 'little man'... those that might not have a voice otherwise.
If you are interested here are some of the articles and write ups about the situation.
Consumerist
Your4State
Adam's Blog
Herald Mail
Anyway, I just thought I would brag on my husband for a few!
Monday, June 16, 2008
Exponentially Harder
My job just got much much harder... Chase is now crawling! And with a purpose might I add. He sets his sights on something and there is no stopping him. He is particularly fond of the remote, mommy's cell phone and the coffee table. He has been hinting towards his for a few weeks now but he took his first actual movements forward on Sunday (Father's Day!)
I don't think it will be too long before he is pulling himself up on the furniture. He already has the look in his eyes... he just needs the leg power ;~)
I love each new thing he does.... each new object he discovers... each new milestone he reaches. This is what I was meant to do... tough times and all... I love my life.
I don't think it will be too long before he is pulling himself up on the furniture. He already has the look in his eyes... he just needs the leg power ;~)
I love each new thing he does.... each new object he discovers... each new milestone he reaches. This is what I was meant to do... tough times and all... I love my life.
Sunday, June 15, 2008
Happy Father's Day
A special Happy First Father's Day to Adam!
We love you so much!
Also Happy Father's Day to Paul, Joe and Pete! We love you guys and hope that you had a wonderful day!
We love you so much!
Also Happy Father's Day to Paul, Joe and Pete! We love you guys and hope that you had a wonderful day!
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Ahhh, the haps
First and foremost... thank you so much for all the advice. I really appreciate your thoughts and words of encouragement. I think I will eventually reach out to them, at least via letter but probably not for sometime. Heck, crafting that letter will take long enough ;~) I will share if and when I write and send it!
On to the rest of the news in our world... We have decided to move to Hagerstown! There are many good reasons why but I will just touch on a few... the rent is ridiculously cheaper, we can actually buy a house (when we are ready), I can remain a stay at home mom easier and we have family there (re: free babysitting right MIL!) Those are just the key points... there are a million small good reasons too. I have been tied to this area for a long time but most of my ties are gone and the ones that remain can stretch to Hagerstown ;~)
Adam would continue to work for the same law firm and commute 3 days a week and work from home the other 2. Eventually he will start a Hagerstown branch of the firm. Even with the added gas mileage (and yes, we did calculate the erroneously high prices) we would be saving money. Which comes in handy since student loans are coming due again soon and we aren't entirely sure how we will cover them.
We are looking at an Oct 1 move date but it is definitely not set in stone. We are taking it slow and trying to really grasp the Lord's plan for us. We have been praying about it every night since we hatched this crazy plan. So far, we have not been let down!
Adam and I have toyed with the idea of selling my Jeep to buy a less expensive fuel efficient SUV... However, we never really gave it much serious thought. Enter my brilliant husband who last night got the idea that we sell his Honda Accord and buy a more fuel efficient (and 4 door!) Honda Civic. He started doing the math and it was amazing how much money we would save in gas mileage alone... all contributing more towards those pesky student loans! We are extremely excited at this prospect and will be listing our car tonight. We are now also seriously considering selling my Jeep for a F.E. SUV. Please pray as we start to make some weighty decisions!
Other random news... we have stepped down from hosting bible study on Thursdays. It got to be too difficult to host and deal with Chase. Honestly, I spent most of my time paying attention to Chase and not the study (shocking, I know) ... and Adam would be paying attention to me to be sure I didn't need any help. Chase is usually the only baby there so he really stands out and so does his talking... and the boy can seriously talk. As Danielle put it "Once Chase found his voice, he made it heard." Plus we try to have a bedtime pattern for him which falls right in the middle of the study and you can forget trying to have Chase sleep with 10 adults conversing on the other side of the wall... he hates to be left out! All that and the fact that we are moving soon led us to make this decision.
Lastly, we are heading to Hagerstown this weekend (think of the gas mileage we will save driving to Hagerstown all the time! Seriously, we go at least once a month, sometimes more!) It is Adam's first Father's Day and I am so excited to celebrate it. I hope that I can make it as special as he made Mother's Day for me! Speaking of which, we had our session with Kim Flores and got the proofs back! Now we just have to decide on our absolute favorites!
In closing I will leave you with a short video of a very happy water baby ;~)
On to the rest of the news in our world... We have decided to move to Hagerstown! There are many good reasons why but I will just touch on a few... the rent is ridiculously cheaper, we can actually buy a house (when we are ready), I can remain a stay at home mom easier and we have family there (re: free babysitting right MIL!) Those are just the key points... there are a million small good reasons too. I have been tied to this area for a long time but most of my ties are gone and the ones that remain can stretch to Hagerstown ;~)
Adam would continue to work for the same law firm and commute 3 days a week and work from home the other 2. Eventually he will start a Hagerstown branch of the firm. Even with the added gas mileage (and yes, we did calculate the erroneously high prices) we would be saving money. Which comes in handy since student loans are coming due again soon and we aren't entirely sure how we will cover them.
We are looking at an Oct 1 move date but it is definitely not set in stone. We are taking it slow and trying to really grasp the Lord's plan for us. We have been praying about it every night since we hatched this crazy plan. So far, we have not been let down!
Adam and I have toyed with the idea of selling my Jeep to buy a less expensive fuel efficient SUV... However, we never really gave it much serious thought. Enter my brilliant husband who last night got the idea that we sell his Honda Accord and buy a more fuel efficient (and 4 door!) Honda Civic. He started doing the math and it was amazing how much money we would save in gas mileage alone... all contributing more towards those pesky student loans! We are extremely excited at this prospect and will be listing our car tonight. We are now also seriously considering selling my Jeep for a F.E. SUV. Please pray as we start to make some weighty decisions!
Other random news... we have stepped down from hosting bible study on Thursdays. It got to be too difficult to host and deal with Chase. Honestly, I spent most of my time paying attention to Chase and not the study (shocking, I know) ... and Adam would be paying attention to me to be sure I didn't need any help. Chase is usually the only baby there so he really stands out and so does his talking... and the boy can seriously talk. As Danielle put it "Once Chase found his voice, he made it heard." Plus we try to have a bedtime pattern for him which falls right in the middle of the study and you can forget trying to have Chase sleep with 10 adults conversing on the other side of the wall... he hates to be left out! All that and the fact that we are moving soon led us to make this decision.
Lastly, we are heading to Hagerstown this weekend (think of the gas mileage we will save driving to Hagerstown all the time! Seriously, we go at least once a month, sometimes more!) It is Adam's first Father's Day and I am so excited to celebrate it. I hope that I can make it as special as he made Mother's Day for me! Speaking of which, we had our session with Kim Flores and got the proofs back! Now we just have to decide on our absolute favorites!
In closing I will leave you with a short video of a very happy water baby ;~)
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
Forgiveness vs. Olive Branch
I mentioned in an earlier post that I was thinking about reaching out to some family that I haven't spoken to in quite some time... over 6 years to be exact. There are a few things holding me back so I thought I would put pen to paper and see what I come up with... well at least fingers to keyboard.
Thought 1. Why do I feel the need to reach out to them? I think it stems from having Chase and not having a lot of family to offer him. Don't get me wrong... I have my dad and his girlfriend and I am so glad that God blessed me with them. I also have my moms cousin Winnie who I have come to have a relationship with ever since our NY trip. Other than that though, I am out. No one else. I am an only child. My mom had one sister and she has 3 daughters (the aforementioned family that I am currently not speaking to). Now my grandmother was 1 of 9 and my grandfather was 1 of 10 so I am sure I have a smattering of cousins, aunts, uncles and other bloodlines but none that are close enough to actually be the family I am looking for. Another reason for reaching out... I have fond memories of our families spending time together... we vacationed together, spent Christmas' together... you know, family stuff. Another reason... with my keen interweb skills I found out that one of my cousins had a daughter and C2 and C3 live together in Maine. Curiosity is a driving force because I am dying to know which cousin had the baby.
2. Why haven't I reached out to them yet? This is an easy one... if it were just a fight that my mom had with Auntie and C1 then I am sure this wouldn't even be an issue. I get it... sisters fight, families fight. However, Auntie and C1 crossed a line when C1 left this message on 4.22.02 "Message is for [my mom]. You are dead in my eyes and I never want to talk to you again. I want nothing to do with you. As far as I'm concerned, you're dead. You died today, goodbye." That message has kept me from reaching out to Auntie, C1, C2 and C3. Now let me clarify here... I do NOT harbor resentment or hate them in any way shape or form. Pattie O* once said "Hate doesn't know who it's directed at." and I believe that to be true. I do my best not to have hate and negativity in my world because it plays out in all other relationships. I forgave them along time ago for their words... Mainly because I feel sorry for them. I can't imagine what it is to have that kind of hatred and misery in your life. I feel for them because they don't know the warm embrace of Jesus. To me, that makes all the difference in the world. That being said, I hurt for the way those words affected my mom. Some of her only family wishing death on her, which she had cheated for 17 years at that point. I know how alone it made her feel and my heart aches because nothing can be said or done to take that away. To that end, I wonder why I would want to subject myself to the possibility of this hatred spewing at me, God forbid I do something they didn't like (perhaps write about it on a blog ;~). Why would I want to invite that into my life? It is the same reason I don't reach out to my birth father... why risk the rejection and hurt which has so clearly been demonstrated.
So my quandary.... when does forgiveness end? As a Christian should I keep going and extend the olive branch or have I met my obligation? Do I need to try to mend this relationship? I am struggling to think (or find) a specific verse that has to do with going to the person who wronged you... I have the idea of it in my mind but would love to find it in the bible so I could really think and study on it.
Ironically I check this blog frequently and she posted this the other day. Her post got me thinking again and spurred me to finish this entry.
I am really just trying to sort out my thoughts and feelings about this mess but I am open to advice and comments. I will always listen to what you have to say... However, don't be surprised if I do my own thing ;~)
*Pattie O is an AA speaker that I listen to time and time again. I can never hear her story often enough. Even if you aren't an alcoholic, the messages and stories are so moving, sometimes it can't help but change you.
Thought 1. Why do I feel the need to reach out to them? I think it stems from having Chase and not having a lot of family to offer him. Don't get me wrong... I have my dad and his girlfriend and I am so glad that God blessed me with them. I also have my moms cousin Winnie who I have come to have a relationship with ever since our NY trip. Other than that though, I am out. No one else. I am an only child. My mom had one sister and she has 3 daughters (the aforementioned family that I am currently not speaking to). Now my grandmother was 1 of 9 and my grandfather was 1 of 10 so I am sure I have a smattering of cousins, aunts, uncles and other bloodlines but none that are close enough to actually be the family I am looking for. Another reason for reaching out... I have fond memories of our families spending time together... we vacationed together, spent Christmas' together... you know, family stuff. Another reason... with my keen interweb skills I found out that one of my cousins had a daughter and C2 and C3 live together in Maine. Curiosity is a driving force because I am dying to know which cousin had the baby.
2. Why haven't I reached out to them yet? This is an easy one... if it were just a fight that my mom had with Auntie and C1 then I am sure this wouldn't even be an issue. I get it... sisters fight, families fight. However, Auntie and C1 crossed a line when C1 left this message on 4.22.02 "Message is for [my mom]. You are dead in my eyes and I never want to talk to you again. I want nothing to do with you. As far as I'm concerned, you're dead. You died today, goodbye." That message has kept me from reaching out to Auntie, C1, C2 and C3. Now let me clarify here... I do NOT harbor resentment or hate them in any way shape or form. Pattie O* once said "Hate doesn't know who it's directed at." and I believe that to be true. I do my best not to have hate and negativity in my world because it plays out in all other relationships. I forgave them along time ago for their words... Mainly because I feel sorry for them. I can't imagine what it is to have that kind of hatred and misery in your life. I feel for them because they don't know the warm embrace of Jesus. To me, that makes all the difference in the world. That being said, I hurt for the way those words affected my mom. Some of her only family wishing death on her, which she had cheated for 17 years at that point. I know how alone it made her feel and my heart aches because nothing can be said or done to take that away. To that end, I wonder why I would want to subject myself to the possibility of this hatred spewing at me, God forbid I do something they didn't like (perhaps write about it on a blog ;~). Why would I want to invite that into my life? It is the same reason I don't reach out to my birth father... why risk the rejection and hurt which has so clearly been demonstrated.
So my quandary.... when does forgiveness end? As a Christian should I keep going and extend the olive branch or have I met my obligation? Do I need to try to mend this relationship? I am struggling to think (or find) a specific verse that has to do with going to the person who wronged you... I have the idea of it in my mind but would love to find it in the bible so I could really think and study on it.
Ironically I check this blog frequently and she posted this the other day. Her post got me thinking again and spurred me to finish this entry.
I am really just trying to sort out my thoughts and feelings about this mess but I am open to advice and comments. I will always listen to what you have to say... However, don't be surprised if I do my own thing ;~)
*Pattie O is an AA speaker that I listen to time and time again. I can never hear her story often enough. Even if you aren't an alcoholic, the messages and stories are so moving, sometimes it can't help but change you.
Friday, June 06, 2008
Oh the horror
Chase just let out a cry so I went to go check on him. He has bad gas so this is a nightly occurrence. He isn't actually awake so much as just in pain because he needs to pass gas. So I put the paci in his mouth (sucking motion helps push the gas out) and I lifted his legs as if he were sitting. That definitely helped and he calmed down pretty quickly. I was just finishing putting his legs back down when underneath me went racing a centipede type thing with a zillion legs. They are common around here and if you think I don't like them during the day, try 1:15 in the darkness. I almost jumped into Chase's crib with him.
I actually thought long and hard about waking Adam to come help me but then I remembered he has actual work to do tomorrow. I mean court and filing things so I let him sleep. I did don a pair of his slippers and wielded one of his tennis shoes... to which I bravely hit the piece of clothing it had stopped to check out, thereby forcing it to run in the other direction. To which I smashed him to smitherines... Ugh, I get the willies thinking about it.
I am mother hear me roar! That is one bug who won't be spending time in my son's room anymore... well at least after tomorrow morning. I didn't actually pick up the deadness... there are somethings that can wait for a husband ;~)
I actually thought long and hard about waking Adam to come help me but then I remembered he has actual work to do tomorrow. I mean court and filing things so I let him sleep. I did don a pair of his slippers and wielded one of his tennis shoes... to which I bravely hit the piece of clothing it had stopped to check out, thereby forcing it to run in the other direction. To which I smashed him to smitherines... Ugh, I get the willies thinking about it.
I am mother hear me roar! That is one bug who won't be spending time in my son's room anymore... well at least after tomorrow morning. I didn't actually pick up the deadness... there are somethings that can wait for a husband ;~)
Sunday, June 01, 2008
Weekend Pictures
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
Quiet in the house
I am laying on the couch and the only sound is the bathroom fan humming. I am too afraid to turn it off right now because I think it provides white noise for Chase who is... drumroll please... sleeping! Yep... it's 9:40 and he has been asleep since 5 after 9. This both terrifies and excites me. Chase is a solid 9 hour sleeper, at least he was last time we attempted an earlier bedtime so the idea that he may be getting up at 6 (or even earlier, yikes) terrifies me. Mama likey her sleep ;~) On the other hand, I have had 30 minutes to my very own to surf the interhighway, write email and do whatever my little heart desires! I really only surfed and emailed... apparently that is what my heart desires.
If anyone has been paying attention to the comments then you will know there is a good chance I was starving my son. A tad dramatic, I know but regardless (not irregardless... I hate that!) he has most likely not been getting enough calories to keep him satisfied. Oh well, lesson learned... thanks guru Diane! We are now on a hard hitting quest to fill that belly at all times! Today he had some fruity stuff with whole grain in the morning and not surprising... he loved it. What was surprising is we tried spinach and potatoes this afternoon and lo and behold, Chase inhaled it. Took down about 3/4 of the jar, which we promptly finished for dinner and started on the second one. I mean I like spinach (always have) but it shocked me to learn that Chase likes it as well. Of course he doesn't like sweet potatoes which Adam and I tend to eat about 3-4 times a week. Truly boring stuff, sorry.
So I have been wanting to write this post about why I hate being a parent. I think about it a lot... formulate ideas in my head, script it out.... ect. Until now I haven't actually started writing anything but what the hey, now is as good a time as any. Remember, I have mommy time!
So, I really only have one reason for hating being a parent... we will get there... lets go over some of the obvious possibilities. Sleepless nights... (the proverbial) 'they' tell you about those. Crying for no reason... the same 'they' tell you about that. The constant worry... 'they' tell you about (although you cannot imagine the depth until you are a parent!). All the other things people are so happy, correction gleeful, to warn you about. I got it. I am currently watching time speed by, I am dreading when he starts talking back and when he starts crawling I will move that chainsaw. Got it.
What 'they' didn't adequately warn me about is the self doubt. Since the day I brought Chase home I have second guessed every decision I have made. I have doubted my abilities in every situation I have been thrust into. I have cried to Adam that I am not doing this right and I want out. (Chase, if you are reading this years from now... I truly do love you with all my heart... mommy was just tired ;~) I really wasn't prepared for the amount of self doubt I could come up with. Nursing, co-sleeping, medication, no cry solution, sleeping, awake time... the list can go on forever. Did I make the right choice... have I royally screwed him up... will this come out in therapy years from now? The craziest thing about the self doubt is I know better. More than a few times a day I talk myself down off the ledge of self doubt. I remind myself that this is the first time I am doing this and no one is good at anything the first time around. I remind myself that all mothers go through this and that somehow all these babies survive and thrive. I remind myself that I am allowed to make mistakes. I remind myself that even if I make mistakes (re: starving my child, see above) I still love that little boy with all my heart and I will do my best to raise him happy and healthy.
If all else fails, I remind myself that he won't remember this time in his life anyway!
If anyone has been paying attention to the comments then you will know there is a good chance I was starving my son. A tad dramatic, I know but regardless (not irregardless... I hate that!) he has most likely not been getting enough calories to keep him satisfied. Oh well, lesson learned... thanks guru Diane! We are now on a hard hitting quest to fill that belly at all times! Today he had some fruity stuff with whole grain in the morning and not surprising... he loved it. What was surprising is we tried spinach and potatoes this afternoon and lo and behold, Chase inhaled it. Took down about 3/4 of the jar, which we promptly finished for dinner and started on the second one. I mean I like spinach (always have) but it shocked me to learn that Chase likes it as well. Of course he doesn't like sweet potatoes which Adam and I tend to eat about 3-4 times a week. Truly boring stuff, sorry.
So I have been wanting to write this post about why I hate being a parent. I think about it a lot... formulate ideas in my head, script it out.... ect. Until now I haven't actually started writing anything but what the hey, now is as good a time as any. Remember, I have mommy time!
So, I really only have one reason for hating being a parent... we will get there... lets go over some of the obvious possibilities. Sleepless nights... (the proverbial) 'they' tell you about those. Crying for no reason... the same 'they' tell you about that. The constant worry... 'they' tell you about (although you cannot imagine the depth until you are a parent!). All the other things people are so happy, correction gleeful, to warn you about. I got it. I am currently watching time speed by, I am dreading when he starts talking back and when he starts crawling I will move that chainsaw. Got it.
What 'they' didn't adequately warn me about is the self doubt. Since the day I brought Chase home I have second guessed every decision I have made. I have doubted my abilities in every situation I have been thrust into. I have cried to Adam that I am not doing this right and I want out. (Chase, if you are reading this years from now... I truly do love you with all my heart... mommy was just tired ;~) I really wasn't prepared for the amount of self doubt I could come up with. Nursing, co-sleeping, medication, no cry solution, sleeping, awake time... the list can go on forever. Did I make the right choice... have I royally screwed him up... will this come out in therapy years from now? The craziest thing about the self doubt is I know better. More than a few times a day I talk myself down off the ledge of self doubt. I remind myself that this is the first time I am doing this and no one is good at anything the first time around. I remind myself that all mothers go through this and that somehow all these babies survive and thrive. I remind myself that I am allowed to make mistakes. I remind myself that even if I make mistakes (re: starving my child, see above) I still love that little boy with all my heart and I will do my best to raise him happy and healthy.
If all else fails, I remind myself that he won't remember this time in his life anyway!
Monday, May 26, 2008
Chase goes swimming
Our community pool opened this weekend so we decided to take Chase for his first experience with the pool! First off, how cute are his swim trunks!
We spent a few minutes in the big pool... the water was freezing! Chase was none too happy with the cold water.
Daddy tried to ease Chase into liking the water by playing a little but shortly after this we were kicked out. Apparently babies aren't allowed in the big people pool ;~( So sad.
So we hung out in the baby pool for a little while. It was a little better but still really cold. Chase was having fun in this picture but that was about it. The rest of the time he was iffy at best.
We decided to head home and fill up our own pool. Chase was hesitant at first but after a few minutes he realized it was very similar to his bath which he loves.
I just love this picture.
Happy boy!
Chase was having so much fun Daddy decided to get in and play.
Yummy rings.
Chase man getting all tuckered out.
We are still dealing with Chase's napping issues. He has just refused to sleep any longer than 45 minutes (and a nap that long is few and far between) but more to the point is he is grumpy all day with occasional happiness. This is not his normal disposition so I know he isn't getting enough sleep. I think tomorrow I will be changing up the routine and trying new things. Obviously what we are doing (or were once doing) is no longer effective. Time to change. The only thing constant about Chase is that he is always changing.
I hope everyone had an enjoyable Memorial Day weekend!
We spent a few minutes in the big pool... the water was freezing! Chase was none too happy with the cold water.
Daddy tried to ease Chase into liking the water by playing a little but shortly after this we were kicked out. Apparently babies aren't allowed in the big people pool ;~( So sad.
So we hung out in the baby pool for a little while. It was a little better but still really cold. Chase was having fun in this picture but that was about it. The rest of the time he was iffy at best.
We decided to head home and fill up our own pool. Chase was hesitant at first but after a few minutes he realized it was very similar to his bath which he loves.
I just love this picture.
Happy boy!
Chase was having so much fun Daddy decided to get in and play.
Yummy rings.
Chase man getting all tuckered out.
We are still dealing with Chase's napping issues. He has just refused to sleep any longer than 45 minutes (and a nap that long is few and far between) but more to the point is he is grumpy all day with occasional happiness. This is not his normal disposition so I know he isn't getting enough sleep. I think tomorrow I will be changing up the routine and trying new things. Obviously what we are doing (or were once doing) is no longer effective. Time to change. The only thing constant about Chase is that he is always changing.
I hope everyone had an enjoyable Memorial Day weekend!
Sunday, May 25, 2008
Sleep is more important than money...
As evidenced by our willingness to drive all over Crofton and Annapolis yesterday on a wing and a prayer that Chase would nap. It worked... he napped for about 45 minutes, woke up and with no change in atmosphere, the hum of our moving Jeep lulled him back to sleep for at least another 45 minutes!
It started in the morning with Chase's first nap... more appropriately, his lack of first nap. He was down for all of 30 minutes before little man was awake and unwilling to go back to sleep. And I tried... oh did I try to get him back to sleep. It didn't work. So we start the process over.... up, feed, play and when he is sleepy, back down for another nap. When he went down for the second nap, I thought 'great, here is where I recharge and get some mommy time'... 15 minutes after he went down, I hear noise. No, this can't be... he has to be joking. He wasn't. With the same unwillingness to go back to sleep, despite his mother's DESPERATE attempt, Chase was back up. It was now 1 ish and we had in essence wasted the day so far... it's amazing how quickly time passes when Chase is awake for the majority of it. We are now looking at the day thinking that it will be a pointless unproductive day... so we attempt to salvage it by researching parks in the area to have our pictures taken... and in doing so have Chase nap in the carseat. So at 3 (next nap time) we set off. We have our Garmin and we are just cruising all over Crofton and Annapolis looking at parks and checking backseat mirror. To our relief, most of the time, this what we saw...
Around 4:20 Adam and I were talking about plans that we had for the rest of the weekend... I mentioned Rose's graduation party that was tomorrow... Saturday. Just as Adam was telling me that today was Saturday, I was coming to that realization. No, no I didn't mess this up... I have to be wrong. We consult our calendar... yeah, the party started at 3 and was about 45 minutes away from our house, of which we are 20 minutes away from with no baby supplies. I was crushed. I have had this party on our calendar for months... I really wanted to be there. Now, not only have I not recharged from Chase, I feel like the worlds biggest schmuck. Ugh.
We decide to try to salvage the day (again), and head to Annapolis. It's gorgeous and we thought we could cruise main street. Chase woke up on our way there so we actually were able to get out and walk around.
As you can see we did get to enjoy the great outdoors. We sat on a bench for a little while and played with Chase and people watched.
We even got a fun family shot!
We timed going home so just as we got home Chase would be ready for another nap. He was cranky and getting sleepy the whole way home... so much so that I hopped in the backseat as we were driving to distract him from screaming. I take him immediately to his room, we do our sleepy routine, he is tired... until we actually lay down. It goes from drifting eyes to spitting out the paci to babbling to all out screaming. Then after the screaming comes crying... the kind of crying that people talk about when they talk about babies. Inconsolable crocodile tears. At this point my tears rival Chase's. I was so tired, so spent, so not wanting to be a mommy anymore. Adam came and took Chase while I finished crying. After some deliberations between Adam and I, we decided that Chase just wouldn't nap that evening and we gave up. He would just have to be a crankpot the rest of the eveing and he did not let us down. We limped along until 10 which is his current bed time at which point we all passed out.
I did get up with him at 11 something... then again at 12 something... and again at 6 something... unfortunately that is to be expected with a bad day of napping. Oddly enough, good sleep during the day means good sleep at night. Bad sleep during the day means bad sleep at night. Oh well. Today is a new day. Thank goodness.
It started in the morning with Chase's first nap... more appropriately, his lack of first nap. He was down for all of 30 minutes before little man was awake and unwilling to go back to sleep. And I tried... oh did I try to get him back to sleep. It didn't work. So we start the process over.... up, feed, play and when he is sleepy, back down for another nap. When he went down for the second nap, I thought 'great, here is where I recharge and get some mommy time'... 15 minutes after he went down, I hear noise. No, this can't be... he has to be joking. He wasn't. With the same unwillingness to go back to sleep, despite his mother's DESPERATE attempt, Chase was back up. It was now 1 ish and we had in essence wasted the day so far... it's amazing how quickly time passes when Chase is awake for the majority of it. We are now looking at the day thinking that it will be a pointless unproductive day... so we attempt to salvage it by researching parks in the area to have our pictures taken... and in doing so have Chase nap in the carseat. So at 3 (next nap time) we set off. We have our Garmin and we are just cruising all over Crofton and Annapolis looking at parks and checking backseat mirror. To our relief, most of the time, this what we saw...
Around 4:20 Adam and I were talking about plans that we had for the rest of the weekend... I mentioned Rose's graduation party that was tomorrow... Saturday. Just as Adam was telling me that today was Saturday, I was coming to that realization. No, no I didn't mess this up... I have to be wrong. We consult our calendar... yeah, the party started at 3 and was about 45 minutes away from our house, of which we are 20 minutes away from with no baby supplies. I was crushed. I have had this party on our calendar for months... I really wanted to be there. Now, not only have I not recharged from Chase, I feel like the worlds biggest schmuck. Ugh.
We decide to try to salvage the day (again), and head to Annapolis. It's gorgeous and we thought we could cruise main street. Chase woke up on our way there so we actually were able to get out and walk around.
As you can see we did get to enjoy the great outdoors. We sat on a bench for a little while and played with Chase and people watched.
We even got a fun family shot!
We timed going home so just as we got home Chase would be ready for another nap. He was cranky and getting sleepy the whole way home... so much so that I hopped in the backseat as we were driving to distract him from screaming. I take him immediately to his room, we do our sleepy routine, he is tired... until we actually lay down. It goes from drifting eyes to spitting out the paci to babbling to all out screaming. Then after the screaming comes crying... the kind of crying that people talk about when they talk about babies. Inconsolable crocodile tears. At this point my tears rival Chase's. I was so tired, so spent, so not wanting to be a mommy anymore. Adam came and took Chase while I finished crying. After some deliberations between Adam and I, we decided that Chase just wouldn't nap that evening and we gave up. He would just have to be a crankpot the rest of the eveing and he did not let us down. We limped along until 10 which is his current bed time at which point we all passed out.
I did get up with him at 11 something... then again at 12 something... and again at 6 something... unfortunately that is to be expected with a bad day of napping. Oddly enough, good sleep during the day means good sleep at night. Bad sleep during the day means bad sleep at night. Oh well. Today is a new day. Thank goodness.
Sunday, May 18, 2008
Chase has visitors
Amy Jean and Larry from Family Law said they came over to eat dinner and spend time with us... but you can see who they really wanted to see!
Latest and greatest from their end of the world... they are engaged! Congrats again guys!
And yes, Larry is wearing the greatest team in baseball... New York Yankees! Anyone who is a fan is welcome in my house!
Latest and greatest from their end of the world... they are engaged! Congrats again guys!
And yes, Larry is wearing the greatest team in baseball... New York Yankees! Anyone who is a fan is welcome in my house!
Thursday, May 15, 2008
Happy Anniversary!
It's been 4 years since hubby and I tied the knot!
Here are some wedding pictures for your viewing pleasure!
Here we are 'flipping off' the camera... relax, it's just our ring fingers!
Here's my hottie on our wedding day!
Doing a little twirl for the camera!
It's hard to believe it's been 4 years since this day. I can't believe all that's changed in our lives... we had just lost Ryan, mom passed away a few months later, we moved no less then 8 times jointly, grammy passed away, we had a baby... it's makes my head spin! Not only have the physical aspects of life changed but we have changed. We have learned how to communicate better, we have learned to rely on the Lord more, we have grown closer than I ever thought we could... the list goes on!
To my hubby... here's to the last 4 years! I love you more then I did that day and I will love you more tomorrow then I do today. You have given me more than I ever thought I needed. I love you, I love our story, I love our life and I love the child we made together. Thank you for the last 4 year and here's to many, many, many more! Remember the deal we made ;~)
Mother's Day Continued
On Tuesday I received these from my dad. I love when my holiday's extend past the actual day! Thanks Dad!!!
Sunday, May 11, 2008
First Mother's Day
So my first Mother's Day is coming to a close and I couldn't be happier. It was such a wonderful day... I really couldn't have asked for anything better.
It started when I went to get coffee... next to my mug was a card from Adam and Chase and in the card was a gift certificate for a photography session with Kim Flores. Some of you that bounce between the Townley's and our website may recognize the name... she just did some photography for them and the pictures turned out amazing! The moment I saw the work she did for the Townley's I was interested in having her do some photography for us. Apparently Adam felt the same way, he called her that day! I am absolutely elated and cannot wait for the appointment!
After coffee we got ready to head to church for the baby dedication. Chase was running on absolutely no sleep when we got to church and I really thought we would have a screaming hellion on our hands. Not in the least. He made it through the worship and being up on stage (with 13 our couples and their babies!) while we dedicated him to the Lord. When we sat back down, my little angel fell asleep in my arms and slept through the whole service. Don't let him fool you though.... the service was awesome. I love hearing Greg speak and this morning he spoke of a virtuous Abigail from I Samuel 25. I was utterly spellbound by his sermon.
We had a reception after service where they took a family portrait... which I can't wait to see... I think it turned out really well!
After the reception we went home to relax... well mom and dad relaxed and Chase napped! After he woke up we headed to the Mallare's for a Mother's Day picnic with the other small group parents. It was really great to spend time with other parents... we compared notes and talked about what each baby was currently doing, or on the verge of doing (Lily is going to be crawling soon, she pivots like a champ!) We spent a good long time there before melt downs started to occur and then everyone split.
We came home and promptly put a tired Chase to sleep... which he proceeded to do for the next 2 hours and 45 minutes! Which allowed mommy and daddy to crash out on the couch and get some needed rest! A family nap session if you will ;~) Even Riley was behaved, he just curled up on his bed!
Chase woke up and Adam and I had dinner... yummy Brazilian Black Bean soup (which Ali, if you are reading this... I LOVE YOU... that soup is a staple in our meal plans!). We played with Chase for awhile and marveled at how awesome he is. Then bath, stories and bed time and the house is silent again (knock on wood ;~).
It has been damp all day and at least for the last half of the day it's been raining... but it's a soft rain that doesn't require you shut the door. So for the last 6 hours or so we have had the rain as background noise... it's just beautiful.
The only way this day could have been more perfect was if my mom were here to share it with me. I wish with all my heart she could have been but I know we live in a fallen world and sometimes you are just dealt a raw deal. As I learned from Abigail this morning... my attitude doesn't have to depend on my surroundings... what I do and don't have. My attitude should only depend on God's love for me and serving him to the best of my ability. I tried to take that approach today. I allowed myself to be a little sad and I did tear up at church just before we went up on stage but then I made the conscious decision to be ok. And it worked. I looked at what I have... a wonderful amazing husband who went out of his way to make this day special for me, a beautiful healthy baby boy and friends and family that care a great deal for me. It's really ok, life is really good.
Here are a few pictures from this weekend...
If that isn't an Adam face I don't know what is... I swear you could take 40 pictures in a row and get a different expression on each picture!
Is this thing on?
Babies everywhere! L-R... Ava, Lily and Chase
Kristen and Ava (10.5 months), Chase and I (6.5 months), Diane and Lily (6.5 months) and Jen and Ethan (2 months).
I love this picture but what I love more was the taking of the picture which I wish we had on video. Picture 4 parents on the other side of the camera making the goofiest faces, saying the silliest things and creating the biggest ruckus to elicit these smiles. It was absolutely hysterical!
A shout out to my other first time mommy friends out there:
Danielle and Anna (2 months)
C and Scooter (1.5 months)
Diana and Lola (1 year today!)
Diana and Sam (1 year)
Carrie and Tyler (5 months)
April and Dante (8.5 months)
And to all the veteran mommies out there... thank you for all that you do! Where would the world be without moms!
It started when I went to get coffee... next to my mug was a card from Adam and Chase and in the card was a gift certificate for a photography session with Kim Flores. Some of you that bounce between the Townley's and our website may recognize the name... she just did some photography for them and the pictures turned out amazing! The moment I saw the work she did for the Townley's I was interested in having her do some photography for us. Apparently Adam felt the same way, he called her that day! I am absolutely elated and cannot wait for the appointment!
After coffee we got ready to head to church for the baby dedication. Chase was running on absolutely no sleep when we got to church and I really thought we would have a screaming hellion on our hands. Not in the least. He made it through the worship and being up on stage (with 13 our couples and their babies!) while we dedicated him to the Lord. When we sat back down, my little angel fell asleep in my arms and slept through the whole service. Don't let him fool you though.... the service was awesome. I love hearing Greg speak and this morning he spoke of a virtuous Abigail from I Samuel 25. I was utterly spellbound by his sermon.
We had a reception after service where they took a family portrait... which I can't wait to see... I think it turned out really well!
After the reception we went home to relax... well mom and dad relaxed and Chase napped! After he woke up we headed to the Mallare's for a Mother's Day picnic with the other small group parents. It was really great to spend time with other parents... we compared notes and talked about what each baby was currently doing, or on the verge of doing (Lily is going to be crawling soon, she pivots like a champ!) We spent a good long time there before melt downs started to occur and then everyone split.
We came home and promptly put a tired Chase to sleep... which he proceeded to do for the next 2 hours and 45 minutes! Which allowed mommy and daddy to crash out on the couch and get some needed rest! A family nap session if you will ;~) Even Riley was behaved, he just curled up on his bed!
Chase woke up and Adam and I had dinner... yummy Brazilian Black Bean soup (which Ali, if you are reading this... I LOVE YOU... that soup is a staple in our meal plans!). We played with Chase for awhile and marveled at how awesome he is. Then bath, stories and bed time and the house is silent again (knock on wood ;~).
It has been damp all day and at least for the last half of the day it's been raining... but it's a soft rain that doesn't require you shut the door. So for the last 6 hours or so we have had the rain as background noise... it's just beautiful.
The only way this day could have been more perfect was if my mom were here to share it with me. I wish with all my heart she could have been but I know we live in a fallen world and sometimes you are just dealt a raw deal. As I learned from Abigail this morning... my attitude doesn't have to depend on my surroundings... what I do and don't have. My attitude should only depend on God's love for me and serving him to the best of my ability. I tried to take that approach today. I allowed myself to be a little sad and I did tear up at church just before we went up on stage but then I made the conscious decision to be ok. And it worked. I looked at what I have... a wonderful amazing husband who went out of his way to make this day special for me, a beautiful healthy baby boy and friends and family that care a great deal for me. It's really ok, life is really good.
Here are a few pictures from this weekend...
If that isn't an Adam face I don't know what is... I swear you could take 40 pictures in a row and get a different expression on each picture!
Is this thing on?
Babies everywhere! L-R... Ava, Lily and Chase
Kristen and Ava (10.5 months), Chase and I (6.5 months), Diane and Lily (6.5 months) and Jen and Ethan (2 months).
I love this picture but what I love more was the taking of the picture which I wish we had on video. Picture 4 parents on the other side of the camera making the goofiest faces, saying the silliest things and creating the biggest ruckus to elicit these smiles. It was absolutely hysterical!
A shout out to my other first time mommy friends out there:
Danielle and Anna (2 months)
C and Scooter (1.5 months)
Diana and Lola (1 year today!)
Diana and Sam (1 year)
Carrie and Tyler (5 months)
April and Dante (8.5 months)
And to all the veteran mommies out there... thank you for all that you do! Where would the world be without moms!
Friday, May 09, 2008
FIRST TOOTH!
Actually make that first teeth! The 2 bottom ones popped up overnight! He seems to be doing ok with them... no real mood changes or sleeping changes... thank goodness! We took pictures (of course) but I will spare you... just a gummy slobbering mouth with translucent colored almost invisible teeth ;~)
Today also marks the end of our week with Anna... here are a few pictures...
Tuesday - Chase would just look at her and squeal over and over again.
Wednesday - Mommy/Aunt Jessi entertaining babies.
Thursday - Again, Chase just LOVES looking at Anna.
Friday - Did you keen observers notice another baby?? No I didn't take leave of my senses and add another baby to my growing daycare... Ethan's mommy came with him for a visit (and she brought me lunch, YAY! Thanks again Jen!).
Ethan and his mommy Jenn... doesn't he look so peaceful?
Mother's Day is coming up and I really want to be looking forward to it... first one and all but I am having a really hard time with missing my mom. If you think about it... please pray for me. I really want to enjoy my first Mother's Day and I am trying hard but I really, really miss her lately.
On Sunday we have a baby dedication at our church where Adam and I are 1. dedicating Chase to the Lord and 2. dedicating ourselves to raising him in Christ's image. I am super excited about that. Also, the new parents in our bible study (and the 2 soon to be new parents) are getting together for a BYOP at Jason and Diane's house. This is all our first Mother's Day... from Kristen on down the line so we are celebrating together... Pat and Kristen, Adam and I, Jason and Diane, Rob and Danielle, Brian and Jenn, Tiny and Zach and Jason and Sylvia. It should be a lot of fun!
Thursday, May 08, 2008
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