Midwestprep

Happy Thursday!

2011-07-14T11:37:00.001-07:00

Invitations featured on Party Planning Blog

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

I was so excited and honored to see that my Rock Star Birthday Invitations were featured on the blog of Maddycakes party planning. That design was my very first item sold on Etsy and really the reason I even started a shop. I think for that reason, it is still one of my favorites.

The party was thrown by the mom behind the awesomely titled blog Girl, Outnumbered

I love the details of the party and the cake is awesome!

Photo credits: Girl, Outnumbered

2011 Drugstore Nail Polish

2011-06-08T11:13:00.000-07:00

I am loving nail polish this summer. I got the most amazing manicure I have ever gotten for mother's day and my nails have looked great ever since. I just keep re-painting them at home and they continue to look great. The colors I am loving right now aren't even expensive. I got them at the drugstore and had to share since they are my favorites at the moment.

Sinful Colors Professional- Pink: This one is apparently so low-budge that they don't even come up with fancy names. Boring Moniker or not- the color is definitely not boring- it is neon pink!

I am normally not a wild nail color girl at all, but this shade is really fun and flattering and it looks calm indoors and more neon and bright when you are out in the sun. The finish is not shiny, so you need to add a clear coat on top, but once you do it looks great. I felt very J.Crew when wearing this, and for $1.99, you can't beat it.

Revlon Top Speed- Stormy: This color is very very close to Essie's very popular Smokin' Hot.

but for $3, this is a more affordable option. Especially when you haven't worn shades like this before, it is nice to dip a toe in at a lower price point. I love this color and it lasted a long time and even went on very nicely. It made me feel very polished and a tiny bid edgy while still being suitable for summer. Plus people were commenting on my nails all week! Isn't that the best when that happens?

Feel free to share any of your favorite summer nail shades!

Budget Nursery Art

2011-06-03T09:46:00.000-07:00

Art is always very difficult for me. I don't quite know what I am looking for, but I know what I DON'T want. Many times, when I find something I like, it is too expensive or the scale is all wrong. For G's nursery, I took a casual approach, checking out thrift shops and second hand art sales over time and just grabbing things I liked instead of trying to make everything GO TOGETHER. I am pretty excited about the few pieces that we managed to find and wanted to share them with you. I added a few accessories in the mix as "Art" and I will include them in the budget breakdown.

Elephant Screen Print: $6 including matte and frame. I found this at a thrift store hanging on the wall. I debated using it since Baby G's name doesn't start with E, but I like the print so much I decided that didn't matter. I think it may be a screen print.

Colorful Boy and Girl Print: $2 framed ( I reframed it in an Ikea Ribba frame I already had)

This was professionally framed with brown paper backing but I didn't care for the frame. When I tore it open I found what I suspected all along. This was originally a greeting card- and it was written in! The writer mentioned a little boy whose name was eerily similar to my son's name which made me feel like I was meant to find this little treasure. I wonder who sent it and who received it and what they were like.

Fish Painting: Painted by my sister- she did a copy of a painting I saw in a catalogue. Hers is slightly different and her colors are brighter, but I love it. I framed it in another Ribba frame

Peter Pan Drawing Print (Or at least I think it looks like Peter Pan) I found this for $5 at a second-hand art sale. It was in a terrible frame and I stuck it in one of my trusty Ribba frames for about $16.

Pillows: These aren't really art I suppose, but I took a picture of our dog, traced him in photoshop and created an image which I uploaded to spoonflower.com and ordered as custom fabric. I really love how they turned out and since Baby G is in LOVE with our dog, I think it is fitting that he is a part of her room decor. The fabric cost about $18/yard- I used 2 yards of custom fabric for each pillow (there is a floral fabric I designed on the back seen in Baby G's dress from an earlier post).

Mirror: Again, this isn't art, but the shape of this mirror was so pretty and it helps add some girly whimsy to the space. We found it at homegoods for $20 and re-painted white to match the trim in the room.

I like that some of these things have hung in other homes and seen other children grow up- it imparts a little bit of history and nostalgia and definitely contributes some warmth and feeling to the room.
Hope you enjoyed the run-down. Thanks for reading!

My First Dress for Baby G!

2011-05-26T13:30:00.000-07:00

I am almost finished making my first dress for Baby G. I didn't use a pattern and didn't really know what I was making when I started out, but I am very happy with the way it turned out. I even tried a few new details like the little front pleat. Is that a kick pleat?

The fabric I used for the bodice is some of the fabric that I used in her nursery for throw pillows. I designed it myself on Spoonflower. The rest I found in my scrap stash. I still need to try it on her and finish up the back (it is pinned for this photo). Once I can get it on her- I will post some additional photos. I may have to try making this again and doing a tutorial because it was really easy!

Extra Large Tunic Shirt Re-fashion

2011-05-26T09:05:00.000-07:00

I bought this extra large tunic shirt for $20 at World Market a month ago because I liked the print so much. I am planning to turn it into an easy breezy summer dress. I am thinking it shouldn't be too hard- just closing up the side vents and tailoring/taking in the sides- maybe doing some sleeve pick-ups? We'll see how ambitious I am.

This pattern is all over World Market and if I could, I would get the matching table umbrella or the outdoor cushions or the trays or plates; or all of it. Did I mention I love this print?!?

Blog re-vamp

2011-05-24T19:44:00.000-07:00

So now that I am back, I am thinking that I need to re-vamp what I am doing here. I still have my same design sense and style, but with the recession and raising two little ones- I just don't have the disposable income to spend on $300 boots and really cute lip gloss. Don't get me wrong... I still love this stuff-- it is just that I am not buying it at the moment, and focusing on all of the stuff I can't have seems like cruel and unusual punishment. So... what will I focus on? I will still be posting cute stuff that I am lusting over from time to time, but I also hope to produce some valuable content too. Maybe some tutorials, features on stuff I make, projects I am doing, and maybe even some helpful hints that I come across. I also plan to change up the look of the blog, so you can look for that to come soon as well. A new look for a new focus-- I am excited!

H is a big kid now!

2011-05-17T11:11:00.000-07:00

I can't believe how long it has been since I have posted.... H is so big now- and he has a little sister!

Introducing Baby G. She is the sweetest little girl!

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas!

2009-12-17T11:05:00.000-08:00

We are putting together the Christmas cards this year and like so many hand-made projects...this one has certainly spiraled out of control budget-wise. What I may have saved by designing it myself was quickly made up by the frequent trips to Paper Source for card stock and the perfect shade of red envelopes, trips to the post office for stamps and CVS photo printing. Still, I am excited about how they turned out and I included a cute picture of H along with it. We are sending out about 60-70 cards this year which I thought was a lot until I saw how many people some other people send to! How many cards do you all send out?

Old old emails

2009-12-04T12:37:00.000-08:00

I have had my yahoo email account since college and there are some pretty old emails in there. I went to see what the earliest one was and this was it- it made me laugh to see how far I have come in the last 7 or 8 years. I thought I would share it with you--I called it my crazy girl column- I must have had a little email newsletter that I sent out- looks like I was a blogger before their were blogs!!!

Crazy Girl Column
Is anyone out there worried? Well I am. Here I am a junior, about to be a senior and I have got nothing. I don't have any real career prospects; no money, no idea of what lies ahead and most alarmingly, I don't even have a boyfriend! Isn't college the time when you are supposed to meet "The One"?
You know the soul mate that you know better than anyone does and can't wait to spend the rest of your life with? Well, my time is running out and to tell you the truth, I am not ready for any of that! I can't even manage to find someone that I want to spend a week with let alone the rest of my life! It becomes painfully evident that my situation isn't the norm as I see my closest friends pairing off and talking in stupid cuddly voices about the future and marriage and babies and all that stuff. I feel like I am missing something, like everyone is following this unwritten plan and I am sitting here wondering what it is I am supposed to do!
I do realize that there is a female stereotype; one that says that women just want to rope in the perfect man and have lots of babies and change the guy into some sort of dutiful husband type, but in a lot of cases that isn't true. Some girls just want a guy to watch movies with on Sunday nights, drink a few beers on the weekends, and tell us we are cute once in a while. Honestly, is that too much to ask? We're not asking for perfection, just a nice-looking guy that can make us laugh.
Maybe it is all of those crappy teenybopper movies that I watch. Honestly, I can't get enough of those loose Shakespearean adaptations. It seems like they make the whole situation worse. The kids in these movies are in high school and they're already finding perfect relationships and living out these dramatic adult scenarios between home-ec. and gym class. I am one year away from scholastic independence and I am miles away from any relationship that could be classified as adult.
Maybe I should go to law school or something. I test well, and who knows, maybe I could rip up the LSAT. Then I would have a few more years to find "The One". As it is, there is too much pressure. I seem to be drawing from the wrong places. I swear that I am the dream girl for the under 18, over 40 club. If there is a scary old drunken man with-in a quarter mile, it is almost a guarantee that he'll hit on me. Its like I am wearing a sign that says, "hey if you are older than my dad, please hit on me!" I must be doing something wrong.
Most of the single women I know just want to meet someone. It doesn't even have to be the right one. I am not interested in rushing things. I am having a good time--I just wish that there was some way to alleviate the pressure. Each day without a date seems like another day in the "you're gonna spend your life alone club." I want to curl up and hide myself from the judgmental eyes of those stupid girls that talk about their boyfriends all the time. The ones who ask you if you are dating anyone, and tell you it's okay that you aren't. Damn right it's okay! I know it's okay! Just because my parents were dating by this time in their lives and some of my friends parents were already married with a kid is no reason to become alarmed! Just because I am now the 2nd oldest unmarried person in my family doesn't mean I am worried about it.-(sarcasm) With all my whining you might think that I am dying for a serious relationship so that I can grip onto some poor unsuspecting guy and never let him go. I assure you, this is not the case. I think that it's the same with a lot of girls my age. Most of us are just waiting; waiting for something to happen, because this quasi-life we call college can't last forever. And because deep down we are ready for something new.

Still around...and contemplating a comeback

2009-11-16T12:36:00.001-08:00

Hi- I am still around in case you were wondering. Thanks for the inquiries. H is growing up so fast!!! I thought I would share a few pictures of what has been going on around here
I have lots to share and I can't wait to hear how everyone is doing!

2009-07-20T10:09:00.000-07:00

Lately I have become more conscious of what I throw away and what I can recycle and reuse and especially what I put in and on my body. I know that sometimes you can have too much information and if you pay attention to every bit of information you would probably be paralyzed with fear, but I also believe that little things can go a long way. We recycle EVERYTHING that we can possibly recycle. We rinse our jars, clean out plastic tubs, cartons etc. Now before you think that I am some sort of selfless green crusader- I must point out that we pay for our trash by volume and recycling is free- so do the math- it literally pays to recycle.

This weekend I was excited to make a "green" purchase in the form of cookware. I have long been wary of the Teflon surfaces of our non-stick pots and pans, all of which were chipped and scratched which left me cringing when I thought about all of the toxic Teflon that I was ingesting and probably passing on to my son. We purchased the Cuisinart Greenware 10-pc Set from Bed Bath and Beyond and we used the 20% off coupon that they send out in the mail and got $30 off.

The non-stick surface of the pans is ceramic based, and as long as you avoid metal utensils, it is supposed to be better for you. After one use, I can tell you that the non-stick quality is AMAZING and they wash up like a dream. As for the durability and whether they are healthier- the jury is still out. I haven't had them long enough to see how they hold up and I am not a scientist, so I am pretty much just glad they aren't made of Teflon. I will keep you posted on how I like them. I am still partial to my All Clad set, but sometimes it is nice to have some easy non-stick pieces and the set was a deal compared with buying two pans individually

AWESOME- that is all I can say about this

2009-07-15T13:46:00.000-07:00

I love this- I want one. I am not sure why I would need one or how I would use it, but I know I love it and I want it...

I could put it in the back yard on the deck or even on the grass- I could bring it to the beach...I could put it in my living room and just hang out in it I love the thing so much. Plus it is on sale here. What do you think of it?

Lunch shame

2009-07-06T09:22:00.000-07:00

I am totally eating a chicken burrito for lunch right now... I am totally grossing myself out. I am usually very healthy on weekdays and especially at lunch- I usually have soup or salad- or sometimes leftover stir fry from the night before- usually it is light and fresh...but for some reason today-- I ordered a CHICKEN BURRITO- I am never going to lose this baby weight if I keep this up. I am half laughing half crying.....but mostly laughing because the burrito is good.
sick.

Mean Girl

2009-07-01T07:41:00.000-07:00

I don’t know if it was too early or if I was too tired or what happened, but I did something that I can’t believe! I can’t stop thinking about it because it was so mean! It was the kind of thing you think about doing but don’t really do because that would be—well—mean!
I can’t believe I am a Mean Girl!

It was 6am, and I was sitting at the train station waiting for my train to arrive. I had just hosted 8 guests in my house for 3 days and I was exhausted. I am staring through the clear glass door to the station when I see a girl approaching with her bike. She parks it directly in front of the glass doors and is getting ready to enter the station. I know that the train is due to arrive any minute and she is blocking the exit that everyone will be rushing through in mere moments. I just kept thinking about how it was so unbelievable that someone would put their bike there, oblivious to the nuisance and inconvenience it would be to so many other people? How could someone be so thick and self involved? So what did I do? Did I approach her and tell her that it was not a smart place to park her bike? No- but that is what I should have done- Or perhaps I could have squeezed through the door and avoided the moronic parking job. I did not do either of those things. I simply walked through the door as I would normally. Knowing fully that it would knock her bike over…and it did! As soon as it happened, I felt terrible! I could not imagine why I had done such a thing! Why was I so angry? To make matters worse everything came flying out of her stupid side baskets- water bottles, locks, chains, coils- you name it! I felt so terrible that I was running around grabbing her things and loading them back into her baskets. I just kept repeating Sorry! I am so sorry! Really I am so sorry! I am sure she thought I was a freak and did not even suspect that I was one of those awful MEAN GIRLS!

I still cringe when I think about it….

Baby Sneezes

2009-06-19T07:38:00.000-07:00

I am home today with my poor little sick H-opotamus. He was up all last night crying and coughing and sneezing and gagging and weezing. I feel so bad for my little pumpkin. I took him to the doctor last night and luckily it is just your average wicked baby cold, but it still takes a lot out of him and you can't really give him anything to make it go away. I keep attacking him with the booger sucker bulb--I am sure you can guess how much he likes that. At least for now he is sleeping peacefully next to me on the couch. It is such a crummy dark and rainy day that I am glad to be home all bundled up with my baby.

Crashed!

2009-06-15T08:25:00.000-07:00

So funny that the thousands of crazy girls trying to buy Tory B. Totes, shoes and tunics crashed the sale at Rue. LITERALLY. They had to pause the sale due to technical difficulties! I don’t know why I think it is so funny (even though I was getting very excited about the blue tote and the pink and green scroll tunic). Something about the visual of screaming girls on the Internet clicking away furiously like some sort of virtual Filene's Basement mad dash.
I hope they get it back up and running and that everybody gets what they want. I think I am over it. Although that tunic might be perfect for post baby mid-section coverage! Alas- if I ever want to stay at home- we need to save… so I will be going without. Boo.

Baby H Pictures

2009-06-13T16:12:00.000-07:00

Currently Reading

2009-06-08T10:46:00.000-07:00

I have recently started tearing through books again during my pump time and my train commute, so in total, I get to read for about 2 and a half hours a day- which is amazing, but books don't last long. I will try to share my thoughts on the books I am reading or have read recently.

Girls in Trucks

Not quite done with this one yet, but the minute I started it I was totally sucked in. I really forget I am reading and almost feel as if I am watching a movie. While this isn't totally deep or Pulitzer prize worthy, it is like a big comfy chair that you can get lost inside. I am really enjoying this story of southern bred debutantes and their wild adventures, love affairs and family drama. This would be a great vacation book or a beach read or even a nice way to relax and have some"me time."

The Book Borrower

This book is odd. It requires a little patience as it isn't action packed, and is more of a character study, but I like it. The book is about friendship and how it could be the most important theme in your life-weaving itself inextricably through your family, your relationships, your children and even your vision of yourself. Although parts of the book led me to think that the main character was a bit too invested in her friendship-emotionally-it was still interesting to read. There is a second story within the main story that provides a snapshot of a tumultuous part of history that you might never read about otherwise- the trolley era- and that part of the book is very fun to read. I think that if you read this book as part of a discussion group you would have a great deal to discuss- and I think it might make for some lively conversation. It reminds me of one of those strange books you had to read senior year of high school- it seems a little different than other books you might read, but it somehow leaves a lasting impression.

My Fun (if a little odd) Birthday Weekend

2009-06-02T07:16:00.000-07:00

Saturday was my birthday and I had a nice morning getting my hair blown out and my eyebrows done. While I was out, Big Guy cleaned the house. I took H with me and it could have been a huge disaster, but he slept the whole time and I even had time to pop over to the drive through window at the coffee chop and get a nice Soy decaf latte. (On a side note my blow out was terrible and I had to call the salon and complain. I felt bad for saying that the guy did a bad job, but it really was terrible and my husband said it looked better when I did it myself- which means it was really bad. Blow outs are expensive, so I felt cheated. Anyway- they are giving me a free blowout this weekend to make up for it. )
After my salon time, we went to The Mall that Time Forgot . Big Guy wanted to take me to a jewelry store that happened to be in this location--Picture a mall that the Golden Girls would go to on their show- palm trees, stores called “Madame Bonjour”, and “Smart and Sophisticated Fashions for Women,” A man on a keyboard playing Dancing Queen…..seriously, it was so strange- even the lighting seemed fake and Golden Girls-y. Also, I hated everything that they showed me in the jewelry store- it was all very trashy looking. BUT on the upside- there was a Deli in the mall- it looked like a little grocery store stuck in the wall- very out of place- and it was like a little Italian market with a butcher, a sandwich counter, gelato, and fresh pasta and bread and cookies- it was so cute. We got lunch and sat near the keyboard man and enjoyed some slow jams.

Then Big Guy took me on a surprise outing to play Skee Ball! It was 10 cents to play and we bought a $3.00 bag of nickels- that is like 15 games each. It was really fun. We thought we were being so cool because we were going to give our tickets to this kid that was really nice and cute (he showed us how to play one of the games and was adorable- saying things like "this is a really great game!”) and when we went to give him our measly 200 tickets- we saw that he had a stack of about 3,000- we felt a little silly.

That night our friends A and D came over and we walked to a pub near our house with the babies (they have a baby the same age as H- they were born in the same hospital 2 days apart) We sat on the patio and had a beer and some mussels and curry fries and then walked back home and made pizzas.

The next day we went to play bocce ball indoors and A and D surprised me and showed up to play with us- it was a really fun weekend.

It is still so cold!!!

2009-06-02T06:24:00.000-07:00

H is all bundled up because it is so cold here! It is JUNE!!!! When is it going to warm up for good!?

Things I am thinking about today

2009-05-27T05:48:00.000-07:00

I am still 3 sizes bigger than I should be. I am still in my enormous pants. I am starting to hate these pants.

After my daycare, train pass, bus pass, parking pass, etc, I really only have like $800 left from my paycheck. This working thing is just not working....

I keep seeing all these cute new clothes coming out from J. Crew but I have neither funds nor figure for it all.

My sweet baby H was sleeping when I left this morning so I didn't get to kiss him goodbye. I should have done so when I was feeding him at 5am, but I was too delirious to think of it.

My house is a disaster area...I have no time/energy to clean it and my husband isn't much of a self-starter when it comes to cleaning. The Laundry is piling up- both clean and dirty, I am pretty sure there are bras in my couch and I keep finding ants in my dishwasher!-yuck.

My garden hates me. I planted herbs-rosemary, thyme, cilantro, basil, marjoram, arugula, Boston lettuce, eggplant, tomato and spring onion and none of it seems to be doing anything at all. I had visions of fresh organic produce all summer long--caprese salads plucked from my porch--free and fresh vegetables piled on my counter tops. I am not sure how long I should wait before I start over- I see some green, but not much.

I am such a downer.....being away from H has sucked the life out of me. I gotta snap out of this.

MIA

2009-05-19T09:52:00.000-07:00

Sorry I have been MIA-

Work and the new hellish commute routine and exhaustion have just taken so much out of me that I never have the energy to come up with a great post...

I am still reading your blogs though and hopefully I will bounce back soon...

Here is an H pic for you in the mean time....

plus I read an interesting article today that I wanted to share. I have been a handful lately- over emotional and just plain mad about going back to work. I try to retain some perspective about the fact that it is also hard for Big Guy- even though sometimes I think he has no idea about how hard things are for me right now. Anyway- I am trying to think about him too... especially since today is our two year wedding anniversary.

Tummy Time

2009-05-01T12:41:00.001-07:00

First Day Back

2009-04-30T14:47:00.000-07:00

Today was the first day back to work. I made it out of the house in one piece. I picked out an outfit last night to avoid any baby weight melt-downs and even showered and blew out my hair to make sure it looked cute. If I was going to be miserable, I might as well look good. I got up and fed and changed H- but not without incident. I had just removed his diaper and was reaching for a new one when he smiled and brought his knees to his chest and explosive pooed on my arm. I let out a surprised yelp and then started laughing. It was really gross, but he is so cute that you can't get mad at him--even when he poops on your arm! Once I got everything cleaned up and put him back together-diaper, onesie, sleeper- I handed him off to my mom while I got dressed. After I got dressed I decided to feed him a little more since he passed out earlier while he was eating. I just sat there and stared at him in disbelief. i couldn't believe it had been three whole months since I had him- he has changed so much and grown so fast and it had all seemed to fly by. I hugged and kissed him and left him with my mom for the day and made it all the way to the garage before the water works started. It wasn't too bad. Part of me knows he is safe with my mom and that is a HUGE comfort. All the sadness is about missing him, and knowing that I will miss him every day. I think this is a cruel situation for a mother to have to be in, but I know many have done it before and I know I just have to grin and bear it.
I hope you all had good days today- I can't wait to get home and kiss my baby.

Going back to Work

2009-04-28T08:24:00.000-07:00

I am going back to work on Thursday and I am not happy......
I will be so sad all day! I feel like I am having so much fun and I just LIVE for H's little smiles and giggles and the new things he learns every day- and not I am going to miss all of his fun stuff while I sit in a desk all day. I hate this. We should have bought some crappy house so I could afford to stay home! uggghhh.

On a happy note- I just had my house cleaned by Molly Maids and it looks awesome. That was a great gift for a new mom!!!

How does your Garden Grow?

2009-04-23T13:10:00.000-07:00

How did everyone learn how to care for their yards and all the different plants in them? I have a yard full of who knows what- (all I know is that they are perennials)- and I have no idea what to do now that spring has sprung! Any tips on where to look or who to call?

Also- couldn't resist posting a few pictures of H- trying on my sunglasses- ok maybe I helped.

Ok... I can't resist posting my latest picture of H.

2009-03-30T17:48:00.000-07:00

Craft Project Results!

2009-03-30T15:38:00.000-07:00

The craft project was a huge success! My friend was really excited about the whole project and how the final product turned out. I think it made her feel really special and that was the whole idea-plus it was a lot of fun. I wanted to share the pictures of the embellished onesies we made. (please ignore my chair fabric- planning to re-cover) I was even happy with my sewing skills- we used an iron on bonding product and then I stitched the edges.

I made these for Baby H...

and the rest we made for my friend's baby girl, Juliette, who is due in July.

p.s.- My husband asked me to create the neck tie onesie and he just told me RIGHT NOW that he copied the idea from Jen (J. Moments). Sorry Jen! Imitation is the most sincere form of flattery!

Crafts!

2009-03-26T06:38:00.000-07:00

One of my best friends is about 25 weeks along and because I have a little newbie myself, I haven't been able to focus as much on her as I would have liked to. For example, the chance that I will be able to attend her baby showers is slim to none since I live in Chicago and she lives in Minnesota. To make it up to her I was hoping to do a baby craft with her when she comes to visit tomorrow (she loves when I come up with craft projects for us to do). Does anyone know any great baby projects or craft sites that are geared towards baby themed crafts? My only idea so far is making custom onesies- cutting out fabric shapes and ironing them on and stitching the edges. It could turn out really cute--or not- we'll see. i will post the results. I would love a second idea if anyone has one!!!

Predator II

2009-03-24T16:17:00.000-07:00

Did I mention that my stomach looks like the monster from Predator 2? It is awful. It looks like a wrinkled veiny shriveled and deflated balloon and because on my polyhydramnios (too much liquid in my belly) and the PUPPS (crazy rash that causes skin the tear/stretch) I have the ugliest marks around my belly button. It isn't pretty. I keep rubbing vitamin E on them because I have seen how well it helps scars to fade but at present, it looks terrible.

Plus I have no idea, and no clothes that are appropriate to dress this new FAT middle that I have going on. I know I need to be patient, but this is going much too slowly for my sanity!
I thought breast feeding was supposed to melt off my pounds. I lost 30 lbs of water in the first two weeks, but I feel like I haven't made any progress since! Any tips for me?

Chicago Botanical Gardens

2009-03-18T15:45:00.001-07:00

Baby H with a friend- can you believe he is only 6 weeks old!?

H was happy to hide behind his sun hat

pretty Botanical Gardens- the pond with ducks

Ever since I moved to Chicago in 2002, I have heard about the Chicago Botanical Gardens. I had never been and really didn't know what to expect, but yesterday baby H and I headed there to enjoy the amazing warm weather and meet some friends. We loved it! It was so beautiful that we decided to become members. If you haven't been, I would totally recommend paying a visit. I hear that once they put in the blooming flowers and more greenery- when the weather gets warm for good- it is supposed to be breathtaking. I can't wait to hang out there and let H play in the rocks, feed the ducks and run around.

Martha and Lilly

2009-03-11T09:36:00.000-07:00

Martha Stewart is doing a Lilly Pulitzer themed show today! It is really cute- the whole audience is wearing Lilly, they did a Lilly inspired craft and showed how they get the inspiration for and how they make the fabric prints. They also did a fashion show and are going to show how to make a Lilly inspired floral arrangement. If you missed it, you might want to look for the re-run or sometimes they repeat episodes on different channels?
The whole show is pretty cute and makes me really anxious for spring...and anxious for my figure to come back!

Fondue or Fondon't?

2009-03-10T11:09:00.000-07:00

So- I have a strange question.... Do any of you Chicago ladies have a fondue pot (for cheese) that you feel like getting rid of? I know it is a bit odd to ask, but I know it is one of those things that people say they never use. I have been craving fondue for months, but because of the amount of wine that our recipe involves, I was a little weary of having it until H was born. Big Guy has Swiss family and one of them lives here and makes the BEST fondue ever- and I went to buy a nice pot online and they are all $80-100. Since we are trying to be frugal around here I thought I would reach out to see if I could barter online for one. I have a baby St. Patrick's Day outfit to offer, (13-17lbs) or we could even negotiate a garage sale price? Also, if anyone outside Chicago is dying to get rid of theirs, I could pay shipping as well....
Maybe this is crazy, but I thought I would throw it out there- you could also suggest something that you have been looking for. Maybe I have one that I would trade!
Have I been home so long that I am going crazy? Maybe I should just look on Craigslist- seems gross for food items though.

Decaf Latte- coming right up!!!

2009-03-09T10:23:00.002-07:00

I finally found some decaf espresso at the grocery store and was able to use my new espresso machine for the first time! I am aware that you are allowed to have some caffeine while pregnant and while breastfeeding, but since this is my first baby- I have decided to let myself be the crazy overcautious mom and cut out the caffeine--thus, the decaf.

I found a package of beans by Intelligentsia called Black Cat Decaf Espresso and used my Breville to brew a double shot and then I steamed some organic skim milk- It was soooooo good!

I would say better than Starbucks.... I LOVED it- plus I feel like it is more affordable to make my latte at home than to buy one every morning- not to mention the fact that it is easier than lugging baby H- just for a latte.

Anyway, just wanted to share the brand with any decaf drinkers!

10 Random Things About My Thursday.

2009-02-26T14:18:00.000-08:00

1. I am pretty sure my son is sitting in a diaper full of poo...and has been for a while, but there is no way I am waking him up to change it. SLEEP SLEEP!!!! This kid thinks he is 3 months old instead of 3 weeks!

2. I tried to make a cake for Big Guy's birthday, but It seemed a little too daunting- I just couldn't bear to mess up the kitchen- and I seemed to be missing ingredients from each recipe that I found. I feel a little average today- instead of the supermom I would LIKE to be.

3. I ate a whole bar of chocolate today...plus pasta with meat sauce...FOR BREAKFAST.

4. H puked on me about 8 times today...and I didn't really change my shirt....hmmmm.

5. I am very excited because I am planning a trip in April. H and I are going to the beach to hang out with my parents!

6. I just put H in the outfit that Big Guy wore as a baby when he came home from the hospital. I thought it would be a sweet gesture for Big Guys Birthday- I hope he likes it!

7. I am making Duck with Black currant sauce for dinner- a favorite of Big Guy's. I am excited to surprise him since he thinks we are having a pizza casserole that we have in the freezer.

8. This morning I thought that there was an explosion in my neighborhood. The whole house shook- I was pretty close to diving under the bed with the baby. I got up and opened the blinds fully expecting things to be on fire....apparently my memory has suffered- because I guess I forgot what thunder sounds like. In my defense- it was really LOUD!

9. A good friend called today to line up a playdate/lunch date for tomorrow. I am excited to get out and interact with the world beyond starbucks and the grocery store. I am also excited that our babies have already hung out a few times and they are both only three weeks old- I hope they get to become friends!

10. It is 7:30 and I am still in my pajamas....Maybe there should have been a shower and outfit change somewhere in my day. Trying to avoid the whole haggard wife look- and I am not sure that I did that today. Oops.

I'm Back!

2009-02-23T08:11:00.001-08:00

Wow!
These past two weeks have been really challenging with my health issues and the lack of sleep and the rushed trips to the pediatrician and all of the craziness that comes with having a baby and also having your body completely give out on you--but I am on the road to recovery. I was diagnosed with a condition called PUPPS which is rarely manifested after pregnancy, but I am always a science project when it comes to my health, so it doesn't surprise me. From what I understand, it all relates to my body trying to process and recover and not being able to handle the 30 lbs of water weight that I lost in the first two weeks. My stomach was so tight due to a lot of amniotic fluid that it burst into a crazy and very itchy case of hives that spread all up and down my arms and legs. It was so wicked and angry that it prompted a dermatologist to take pictures of it! Embarrassing.

They have me on all sorts of antihistamines and even gave me a short burst of steroid treatments (all baby safe) and the rash is actually starting to recede. I am starting to feel normal again little by little and today is my first day alone with Baby H! My mother left early Sunday morning and Big Guy has been back at work for a week now. This morning I was a little worried because it seemed like it was going to be one of those days. H was fussy fussy fussy and I have been up since 5am straight. Usually I get to feed him and then go back to sleep until 8 or 9 when he wakes up and wants to eat again, but he wouldn't fall asleep and kept fussing and crying and then he needed to be changed, and then he spit up, and needed to be cleaned up and then changed again, and then I think his stomach hurt so he was not happy and then he was hungry an hour earlier than I thought he would be so I fed him while balancing my cereal bowl on him...nice mother-huh? Right now he is propped up in his boppy asleep- we have to keep him upright after he eats so he won't projectile vomit all over everything- -this kid's spit up is legendary. Anyway, I wanted to check in and give and update- I am very behind on keeping up with everyone so I am trying to play catch up thins morning. Don't be surprised if I am commenting on old news!

In non-baby related news I made a German Chocolate Cake last week and it was fabulous! I had some issues with overfilling the pans and having the batter bubble over all over my oven, but after some artful trimming it turned out lovely. I think this is my first real triple decker cake and certainly my first non boxed cake. Bug Guy even took the rest to work today to share with friends!

Happy Monday everyone!

Too cute

2009-02-12T13:54:00.001-08:00

Sorry about all the pictures of my Baby- but i can't help it! He is a week old now and I find it hard to tear myself away from him. I have been having some medical issues and they aren't sure if it is something that needs to be addressed or if my body is over-taxed in the recovery process or what, so i have been back and forth to the doctor a lot lately-not so fun. It could turn out to be nothing, so let's hope for that.

I hope you all are having great weeks! I promise to have more posts next week.

A few more pics of my little man

2009-02-08T20:16:00.000-08:00

We are so glad to have our baby H home, and we are spending our days getting to know him! He loves to cuddle and be bundled up all snug in his soft blankets. He loves being swaddled by his dad and he LOVES to eat, if he is crying- chances are he is hungry.

Preppy Baby!

2009-02-04T13:16:00.000-08:00

So tired but wanted you all to know that everything went well and that everyone is healthy. He was born at 3:57am last night/this morning. He weighs 7 lbs 8 ounces and 20.5 inches. We LOVE him-everything about him.

Labor....

2009-02-03T17:37:00.000-08:00

Yep.... I am in Labor. I am sitting here at the hospital all IV'd and hooked up to monitors. My water broke at work around 5:00pm and Big Guy rushed over to take me to the hospital. The contractions aren't that strong yet because I wouldn't say I am in PAIN yet- it is very uncomfortable, but I would rather have this than stick a needle in my back-- when that changes, I will know that I am really in active labor and it is time for the epidural.
Wish me luck- I am a little nervous, but Big Guy is here taking care of me and the nurses and midwives and residents seem very nice. My IV kinda sucks- I didn't realize I would be so aware of it sticking in my hand, but I am sure that soon it will be the least of my worries.
I hope everything goes well, and I hope to have good news to report some time in the near-ish future!

POT HOLES!!!

2009-02-03T09:28:00.000-08:00

image from http://www.blognetnews.com/

Big Guy called me after he dropped me off this morning to say that my sweet little Volvo wagon had fallen victim to one of the city's most vicious winter headaches...A GIANT POTHOLE! The thing popped my tire! I am so glad I wasn't in the car, because I am sure that it would have sent me into a fit of tears. Plus, Big Guy said he waited forever for roadside assistance, since he couldn't get the tire off. This sounds like it is going to be expensive, and don't think that I kid myself enough to think we will see a dime from the city....

All this on a day when I have been having contractions all morning- they aren't regular at all and they are all over the map strength-wise. Last night we totally thought the baby might be on his way when there was a little "show" happening (sorry TMI) and contractions for a few hours- but again, they never seemed to fall into line and get regular, and then they just stopped around 11:00pm, so I went to sleep. Then this morning they are back, and I even had three really strong ones, but they seem to come and go with no rhyme or reason. I lost my you know what last week as of Wednesday, and yesterday, my Doctor told me I was dilated 2cms and 50% effaced, but when I look that up- there are people who said they went into labor in the next few hours and there are some who didn't go for weeks! I love being in limbo---sarcasm.

Sorry I am so baby focused lately-all this waiting and wondering is a little maddening. I wish I could think of some other preppy, peppy, happy things to post about!

I will try to come up with something else this afternoon!

No Baby yet.....

2009-02-02T06:31:00.000-08:00

I am still here....hanging on.....My due date hasn't hit yet (Feb11th) but it seems like everyone else is going early! I will probably have to be induced ten days late knowing my luck. Then they will discover that I am having a giant baby and end up doing a c-section. Cross your fingers for me that I can just have a normal labor. (I realize that there is probably no "normal" but as normal and complication-free as possible.)

One time I had a very vivid dream about having a baby that grew at an incredible rate- the worst part was carrying around this really tall man-baby who inexplicably wore bad khakis and sweater vests. Odd...

Right now I feel like I am just clock-watching, waiting for something to happen. I am trying to enjoy the calm and quiet- but that is easier said than done!

Dinner!!!

2009-01-29T09:37:00.000-08:00

I am so hungry today!!! I have already eaten half of my lunch and it is only 11:42am. I have a pizza bagel that is sitting on my desk staring at me and I just want to rip into it. I am trying to hold off until at least noon so that I won't be starving in another hour-- but who am I kidding. I probably will be anyway. It is funny that this hunger thing just kicked in this week. Maybe it is the lack of sunlight? The Windy City is pretty dark and dismal today.

I am really looking forward to tonight. We are going to dinner for an early birthday celebration for Big Guy. He is so funny. He figured we would all be busy with baby once his birthday came around at the end of February, and his parents are going on a trip, so he casually suggested to his family that we have dinner together to celebrate. I visited the restaurant last weekend and really liked it, so I am excited to go back. I will let you know how my second experience goes- I really like to give credit where it is due for great service and great food.

Today I am feeling less than inspired like many of my blog friends, but i wanted to post about something so that people didn't wonder if I was having the baby! I can't wait for this week to end! I can't believe I have to work again tomorrow. At least some friends of mine are taking me to lunch as a sort of send off before the baby- I think we are hitting Nordstrom Cafe for some soup, salad and scones! Do you like how everything I talk about keeps coming back to food?

Cute New Gift Site in the Family!: Yellow Threads

2009-01-28T12:46:00.001-08:00

My Cousin lives in Manhattan is has always wanted to start her own boutique. This year her dream came true and she has opened an online shop full of gifts called Yellow Threads. One of the reasons I like the store so much is the set-up; it is so clever. You can shop by type of gift or by purpose. There are different sections of the shop- for instance

Organize Her

Decorate Her Home
Accessorize Her
Encourage Her Passion
Nourish Her Soul
You can also shop by occasion as well and search under Birthday, Marriage, New Baby and House Warming.

Here are some of the things that I love from Yellow Threads

Since it is a female owned business, and that female happens to be related to me, I am more than excited to support her new venture. If you visit the site and see something you like- let me know just for fun- and if you decide to buy- tell her that her cousin in the Windy City sent you!!

Questions answered and Product picks

2009-01-26T07:36:00.000-08:00

I thought I would share some of our product picks- I am by no means an expert, but we tried to do as much research as possible and purchase products that worked for our lifestyle.

The stroller we decided on, after much test driving and debate was the UPPA Baby. We LOVE it so far- and hope we still love it when we actually use it outside. We decided that the Bugaboo was too hard for me to fold up- if I lived in Manhattan, I would get it for sure- because I could just leave it in one piece and drive it in and out of the apartment- up the elevators etc- no problem. But to constantly fold and unfold it was too much for me- The Uppa folds and unfolds really easily (well, comparatively, I still have to get used to it). With the Quinny, we were worried about the size, and weren't sure how long it would last- we heard that most people graduated from the buzz to the zap (the travel version) rather quickly and never used the buzz again. With the Uppa, we are able to purchase an added second seat when/if #2 comes along and one of those kick plates for kids to stand on. All this combined with the fact that it is just as/almost as cute at the bugaboo, and I was convinced. PLUS...as a bonus, the bassinet attachment is included in the price! So there are three options, the car seat (which does require an adaptor, the bassinet, and the regular child seat. We got it in black, although I liked the red and blue models as well, and I can't wait to try it out! If you live in Chicagoland, I would recommend Galt Baby. They were really helpful and even offered free delivery that included an in home demo. I loved the service they provided. They will even store your stroller for you, free of charge, if you buy it early and don't want it sitting at your house. I really liked them.

For the Monitor- I was at a loss- so Big Guy Picked one...cross your fingers. Hopefully if it is terrible, we can exchange it.
We also picked a bunch of things that will hopefully entertain, stimulate and/or soothe the baby. All of this stuff adds up! We have so much baby gear! We settled on the Diaper Dekor as a diaper pail. I didn't want one that needed special refills, but I read that the Diaper Champ smelled like poo, so I had to choose this one.

We received the Evenflow exer-saucer as a gift.

We picked up the fisher price rain forest bouncy chair this weekend- my first selfless act of motherhood. I HATE the look of this thing, but I have heard from so many people that their babies LOVE it, so I made myself get over the fact that it is the ugliest thing I have ever seen.
Seriously...I hate it. I hope the baby loves it.

For the swing, I was convinced I needed to pick another hideous monstrosity- and this one was going to cost around $200. In the end we made a game-time gamble and chose the Graco portable car seat adaptable swing. This has the same muti-speed functionality, music and ambient noise features as the other models, but it isn't enormous and I can move it from room to room. I might have to put a mobile on it or something- Not sure if they care about them in the swing or if they mainly fall asleep- I suppose I will find out if our gamble pays off.

Our baby bath choice was the Summer Infant Bath

My Diaper bag is a Skip Hop- mostly because I HATED everything on the market, and people said this one was nice.
We also got a Baby Einstein Neptune Ocean Play-Gym- Big Guy set this up last night and was actually laying IN it..I think he liked it a little too much.

Plus we finally picked a couple options for going home outfits which is a relief! And we grabbed some Dr. Brown's BPA-free bottles because we heard they were good.

We still need to get a mattress for the bassinet that my grandfather built. It was modeled it after one that my aunt saw in a catalogue when she was pregnant and it got passed to us. It is special to us because he made it, and we plan to use it in our bedroom until we can bear to move the baby to the nursery.

That is all I can think of for now- I know we have purchased a million other things- because they are all over my house and basement. We are so excited about welcoming our little bundle and i can't wait to share the news! I hope this was helpful- feel free to ask any questions about why I chose something- I am happy to share!

Good News!

2009-01-23T17:07:00.000-08:00

The ultrasound revealed that the baby is head-down! This is great news for me because I was not looking forward to the recovery time involved with a C-section. I know that the alternative isn't a walk in the park either, but I was a little unnerved by the thought of being cut open while awake. I have issues with needles anyway and this seemed like too much! Let's not even talk about the epidural- I prefer to remain in denial for the time being. If I think about it too much I will just get all worked up and freak out. We are talking about a girl who just had her first non-hysterically crying shot at 28 years old. I am a baby- I know it. It is all psychological- and I am getting better.

On a lighter note. It is finally the weekend and I am so relieved. I have a hair appointment on Monday and I can't wait to get rid of these TERRIBLE roots. Once I get my hair in order, I can really feel OK with having the baby at any time--which of course with my luck means having to be induced on the 21st because I will be 10 days over-due. Positive thoughts!

I am hoping to get a few more things for the baby this weekend like the diaper pail, the bouncy seat and maybe even the swing. I ordered the monitor today- anyone have a baby monitor that they love-- or even one that they hate? We just did the best we could research-wise and hoped that we picked a good one. Any perspective on this is welcome.

Have a great weekend everybody!

Baby Drama

2009-01-22T13:06:00.000-08:00

I went to the Doctor this morning and it looks like I am dilated 1cm- which means nothing really, but the doctor couldn’t feel the head. Last week, the other doctor said she did feel it, so either he flipped or she just didn’t feel him for some other reason.

I am going back today at 3:30 for an ultrasound to see if he really is breach. If he is, they will have to schedule a procedure to try to flip him. If that works- great, but if it doesn’t, there is a 50/50 chance it could send me into labor which means I would have to have an emergency C section at that time. If it doesn’t work and I don’t go into labor, then they would have to schedule a c- section.

I really don’t want a c-section, so I am hoping this lady was just wrong and that his head really is down, because it really feels like it is. Wish me luck.

Crabby Thursday should be Thankful Thursday

2009-01-22T07:48:00.000-08:00

I was feeling very cranky this morning and uncomfortable- in fact I still am, but I happened upon a post about being thankful for things and remembered that a few months ago when we moved into our new house I thought to myself- even when something in my day to day life doesn't go the way I planned or some little thing goes wrong- I have no business being unhappy because I have everything I ever wanted. I have a loving husband, a beautiful home, a baby on the way and my little crazy puppy that loves me. So in an effort to shake this cranky feeling I thought I would focus on the good stuff and make a list.

Today I am especially thankful for

1. My husband-

Even though he hasn't been helping me as much as I would like- he loves me- and he loves me like crazy and tells me all the time- some people don't have that and I forget how lucky I am sometimes.

2. MY BABY!

I can't wait to meet him and see the little man who has been causing me all of this trouble.

3. My Family-

To put it mildly- They love me too- in fact, there isn't much they wouldn't do for me. Some people can't talk openly with their parents and can't be honest. Some parents act like they can't be bothered when their kids need help- Mine are amazing- and I am really lucky to have them.

4. My In-laws-

When I hear stories of wicked MILs and SILs I remember how lucky I am to have the kind of In-laws that I have. They love spending time with us and are always taking us to dinner or inviting us over for this and that. They are so excited for the baby, and are even taking a class this weekend to learn about caring for a baby and infant safety since so much has changed since they raised Big Guy and his sister. I am lucky to have them.

My House!

I love my House!

6. My car!

I love my car too- it is so cute and it is one of my favorite personal possessions. Big Guy bought it for me and I LOVE that he picked it out and thinks it is so cute- he says it suits me and always tells me how cute I look in it- which makes me happy.

7. Preppy Puppy

He SUCKS at going potty in the right place, but he is the only dog I know who loves everyone, is good with kids, doesn't shed, can fit in your tote bag, doesn't bark and Loves me no matter what I do, or look like.

8. My Life is good!

I have a job, I have really fun friends (even though many are far away). I have great memories of travel and exciting experiences. I have a great life and I have my health.

9. My tush didn't get fat during pregnancy-

I was really scared that my butt would get bigger. I already have a butt and I didn't need any more- and I was sure that all the weight would go straight to my rear, but it hasn't! I think it may have gotten smaller! I hope it stays that way! I hope it gets even smaller when I start walking again after I have the baby.

10. YOU!

I usually try not to be too corny or sappy, but I really love reading everyone's blogs and feeling like I have this group of friends that I can bounce ideas off of and ask for advice and share in their day to day triumphs and challenges. I really am thankful for all of you.

OK there you have it- There are a million more things that make me a lucky lady, but these are the 10 that popped into my head. I feel a little less scrooged- which was the whole point, but I still feel like I have a baby in my "area."

I hope everyone has a good day and does a mental 10 things I am thankful for list- it might make you feel better if you are feeling cranky like me!

Thanks

2009-01-21T09:36:00.000-08:00

I received blog awards from Stylish Suburban and The Grove Gals at Pineapple Grove Gifts. Thanks so much! I know that there are a lot of rules and that I am supposed to nominate 10 blogs that you should check out, but I feel like all the blogs I read are fabulous- or else I wouldn't read them every day! I would encourage you to check out all of the blogs on my blog roll and also the blogs that follow mine--I love those blogs too- I just haven't had a chance to update my list in a while. I think it is so great that everyone has built this great little community and that everyone is so supportive of each other! Thanks to all that read my blog- both commenters and lurkers alike!

2009-01-20T12:41:00.000-08:00

Image taken from: http://informalbrain.files.wordpress.com/2008/05/potbefore.jpg

Have you ever forgotten a sauce or turned on a burner and walked away only to come back to a burned-on mess? I did this yesterday to my gorgeous and somewhat new saute pan and thought all was lost. I attempted to us a de-glaze method, but that still left some brown makings and residue. I was so bummed because I really thought my pan would never be the same. I was about to start the waterworks when I remembered that I had used vinegar in the past to remove smudges and white residue from my pans and decided that it was worth a try. After about a minute of scrubbing with white vinegar, the pan looked shiny and new--with no brown spots to speak of. I was so happy. This may be something that everyone already knows, and I am the last one to figure it out, but I thought I would share anyway. I really love vinegar- even though my husband things it stinks. I have used it to clean floor sticky spots, rinse chlorine/shampoo residue from my hair and even to conquer a wicked case of stinky feet one time when mere soap couldn't cut it. Anyone else know some handy unexpected uses for vinegar, or any other cool tips like this?

Clarification

2009-01-16T20:00:00.001-08:00

Big Guy is very concerned because my last post made it seem like he stole a chicken from me- He asked me to make it clear that he is not stealing food from his pregnant wife. I served myself first and he simply finished the rest. I was still surprised that he could eat most of a chicken in one sitting, however, it isn't like he took it out of my hands. So funny- he laughed when I read him the post, and said I made him sound like a such a jerk. I re-read it and realized that the way I wrote it--- he did seem like a chicken stealer. Now I am hungry again.....

On a serious note- I just checked in on Kellys Korner and things are not going well. She was induced this morning and was doing just fine- she was even blogging through her labor-- but now it seems like things have gone wrong. The baby is having trouble breathing and is in intensive care- Kelly is also not doing as well as they would like- If everyone could say a little prayer- or keep them in your thoughts or whatever you feel comfortable doing- It can't hurt to send out good thoughts. It was a little scary to read about this--especially when you forget that labor is a serious thing and isn't always easy or predictable. It was kind of a wake-up call for me- I really need to take better care of myself for the next couple of weeks.

Weather AGAIN! Random post about my day

2009-01-14T13:39:00.000-08:00

Chicago is once again plunged into a bevy of winter weather activity! It stinks. Big Guy and I were in traffic for two and a half hours today on the way to work. As soon as I got into the office I felt like it was time to leave again for my 11:30 doctor appointment.

On that front, it looks like everything is tracking correctly and everything seems normal. Baby's head is down- which was no surprise to me since I think I feel it sometimes- and he seems like the right size! I am a different story. I have gained almost 10 lbs in the past two weeks! my pants are actually a bit snug now in the rear and they have been baggy and saggy the whole time! I know that the last 4 weeks of pregnancy is not the time to worry about being thin, but you just hate to see that scale jump so much!

Additionally, Big guy and I watched an instructional DVD last night about how to work our new Canon 50D. I know this makes us complete dorks, but it is a really informative DVD, it isn't boring and the whole things actually explains all of the tricky stuff like aperture and depth of field and shutter speed in a way that you can absorb. If anyone has a Canon that they would like to learn more about I would recommend the series of instructional DVDs- I am pretty sure he has them for all the different models and I think it was around $20. This is MUCH cheaper than some of the very expensive classes that are out there. I am really enjoying learning about this, and hope that it can be a mini hobby for Big guy and me.

Tomorrow is supposed to be really cold here and we have relaxed start times and departure times at work so that we can avoid the cold and stay safe on the roads- Big Guy just called and told me about a deal at whole foods where you get pizza on Wednesday nights for $11 or something like that. Last night there was a deal for a whole chicken for $5 and we stopped to get that- it was pretty good, but all I got was one breast and Big Guy ate the whole rest of the chicken!!! Does that seem right! I am the one who is eating for me and the baby- I should get more food! Big guy is such a human garbage disposal sometimes. I suppose I shouldn't complain-I made myself a whole huge plate of broccoli and he did buy me chocolate gelato which I very much enjoyed.

Sorry about the random post- I wasn't overly inspired today and just felt like rambling. i hope everyone is staying warm!

(By the way- message for Well I do Declare- I can't get into your blog- you may have to resend my invite if it is not too much trouble.)

Gift Ideas

2009-01-13T08:45:00.000-08:00

In the comments of my last post, Momx2 (soon to be x3) gave me a great idea. She suggested a small gift for the labor and delivery nurses that will be caring for me when the little guy decides to arrive. I love this idea, simply because I love to give gifts and I love to feel put together and prepared. Has anyone done this or thought about doing this? Can anyone give me any unique, creative or thoughtful ideas? Are there any readers who are nurses? What would you love to get from a patient? Any help would be much appreciated. Anyone just feeling creative?

SO TIRED!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-01-12T11:28:00.000-08:00

I have reached new levels of exhaustion! I am so tired and it doesn't look like my work-load is slowing up at all. I honestly don't know if I can keep up the pace until the baby comes, but that is what I need to do to get it all done! Yikes!

This weekend flew by but I managed to get a few things done.
I am still packing my Hospital bag, but made some cute purchases in preparation for the big day.

Along with Shampoo, face wash cloths, toothpaste, body wash and all of that stuff, I wanted to pack a nightshirt or over sized tee-shirt in case I was uncomfortable in the gown that they provide at the hospital. I chose this cute little number because I thought it would look cute, I know it will probably get trashed, and I know that I am probably insane to think it even matters- but whatever. I am prepared in the event that I want something to wear other than that gaping back-drafty gown.

Then for recovery, I figured that my boobs would be huge and I would feel a little self conscious if I had visitors, so I wanted to get something comfy and not revealing. Plus, when I was in the hospital with my false alarm, I was freezing the whole time, so I wanted something that was a little cozy. I got this because it was comfy, big guy liked the yellow, and it has a few buttons to allow for nursing.

Then I picked out a cute little lounge set for when I get home and just need comfy, roomy PJs that don't make me feel ugly.
These two tops coordinate with these pants.

Am I over-thinking all of this? Probably, but I like being overly prepared. The only thing I still need is the going home outfit for the baby. I have one in case he is big- 0-3 months sized, but not if he is newborn sized. I still need to find that- and a diaper bag, and a fitted sheet for the crib. I just want plain white for the fitted, so it shouldn't be too hard. We have about 4 more weeks- unless he comes early which every other person seems to think is going to happen!! Leave me alone people- I know my bump is large. I am short and even shorter-waisted! There is nowhere for this guy to go except straight out and that is what he is doing. I swear from the back you wouldn't know I was pregnant and then when I swing my massive midsection around it comes out of nowhere! Someone actually said they had never seen someone his big...How RUDE!

Nursery Update

2009-01-09T08:12:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the Nursery- It is almost finished! Come on in!

I am really happy with the way it is all coming together- it is going to be so cute with our little baby in it!

This is a beautiful framed piece that my mom put together for us- the baby pics of Big Guy and me are so great, and they look great with the style of the room.

This little bear is so cute and it just so happens that he matches the toasty tan color of the curtains, and the stripe in the crib skirt.

Today is New Camera Day!

2009-01-07T08:04:00.000-08:00

OK, maybe it isn't enough to declare a national holiday, but I am very excited about my new Camera... or OUR new camera. I suppose it belongs to Gig Guy as well. It is so nice and of course Big Guy had to buy everything at once including a telephoto lens, an external flash, a big memory card, a tripod, filters, a carrying case and who knows what else is in the big box that he brought home. I am very excited to learn how to use it because it is really important to me to be able to take really good pictures of the baby when he is born. Big Guy did a lot of research and there are so many great cameras out there, but we ultimately decided that this was the best one for us. I love it.

Today marks 35 weeks for my pregnancy, which means just about five weeks to go. I experienced some Braxton Hicks contractions last night which were pretty wild. They didn't hurt, they were just odd and felt like a tightening of my belly and pressure more than anything. We were on the highway on our way home from work when they started, and Big guy asked if he should turn around and go back to the hospital- but I was pretty sure they weren't the real deal. We started timing them and the first two were seven minutes apart followed by a 5 minute and then another seven minute and then we stopped at the grocery store because I was hungry, and once I got up and walked around for a bit they went away. It was all very cool if I had to describe it, but I am sure that when the real thing happens I won't think it is that cool- I am guessing that actual contractions would hurt more- but who knows!? maybe I will be lucky.

Baby Update:

The baby doesn't have much room to maneuver now that he's over 18 inches long and tips the scales at 5 1/4 pounds Because it's so snug in the womb, he isn't likely to be doing somersaults anymore, but the number of times he kicks should remain about the same. (Actually he is moving a LOT!!!!) His kidneys are fully developed now, and his liver can process some waste products. Most of his basic physical development is now complete — he'll spend the next few weeks putting on weight. (Please no more weight! I can barely move around as it is!)

Anyway, I am still in great spirits and have not reached that stage where I hate being pregnant. I was talking to Big Guy last night and he said that in a strange way he will miss it when I am not pregnant anymore and that he liked the fact that I was protecting our baby while it grew- and I knew what he meant. I have really enjoyed being pregnant. I know that many people have a difficult time, so I don't fault anyone for not loving it, but for me it has been really positive and I will miss it a little. I am sure that I will be so busy with the new baby that I won't mind too much though and it will be a whole new chapter to enjoy.

I also wanted to extend my condolences to MMM who is also 35 weeks and who recently lost her Grandma. Losing family is always hard, but I have to think it is harder when you are pregnant and you are so tired and your emotions are already messed with. Please keep her and her family in your thoughts.

New Year's Eve Dinner- Happy 2009

2009-01-01T11:45:00.000-08:00

Our own private New Year's Eve celebration was a a huge success. Big Guy and I had a great time cooking together and most of the dishes we created were big hits! We even brought out the fancy linens and the wedding crystal to help make everything feel more festive. Though we made quite a mess in the kitchen and had to run the dishwasher twice, the great meal was worth all the work and spending the time together talking and cooking and eating was really nice.
We started out with the potato blini with creme fraiche and caviar- very tasty, but made the house pretty stinky with the frying of the blini. Next time I might make the blini smaller- since it overwhelmed the caviar a little.

Next we had the shrimp with the orange coconut cayenne vinaigrette. First of all- we could have made enough for an entire restaurant- I don't know why it didn't occur to us to reduce the recipe- but we have so much left over that we are going to serve this dish again when we have dinner guests on Friday night. The only concern we had was that the vinaigrette wasn't thick enough- but once we used a hand blender to whip some air into it- it was better. Plus, after a night it the fridge, it thickened even more- so it should be great on Friday. This is REALLY good and actually pretty simple. It would make a great salad dressing, sauce or a seafood sauce or I am sure you could dream up a million other uses for it- if anyone wants the recipe that we used- let me know.

Then we had the escargot which I can't take much credit for since we bought them pre-stuffed with garlic and herbed butter. All did was make some toast points, but let me just tell you that it was amazing and practically no work at all. I think we got more than 20 for around ten dollars- These would be so easy to serve at a cocktail or dinner party- I simply forgot how easy these are to prepare

So the next dish wasn't as pretty- we were totally flying blind on this one- The dish was Crispy ostrich and we knew that the ostrich was supposed to be served as very rare medallions wrapped in something flaky and crispy somewhere between puff pastry and wonton, and there was a broth and a little smear of almond butter. Since I didn't have almond butter and I didn't feel like going out to get some, I made some by toasting almonds and adding salt and oil. I added a little to much salt, but decided to just go with it. We seared the ostrich fillet into a log shape and let it cool for 20 minutes or so. For the crispy coating we went with phyllo dough. I layered about 4 or 5 sheets alternating dough,butter,dough, butter etc... and wrapped it all around the ostrich. We brushed the outside with butter and baked for 10-15 mins at 400. We had to switch to the broiler at the end to get the outside to brown, but one that was done, I did my best to cut the meat into medallion slices. I plated these and added a little broth and the almond butter smear- This didn't look as pretty as when we had it at May Street Market and it didn't taste quite as amazing either, but you could tell we were on the right track and just needed some refining and re-tooling- we'll keep working on this one.

The next dish, Grilled Duck with Black Currant Sauce was by far the home run of the evening. It was so good! Big Guy and I smiled the whole time and kept congratulating each other. It was one of the best things I have ever made and honestly it was pretty simple! We loved it, and we happen to have two more duck breasts in the fridge so we can try it again later this week.

Dessert was pretty good too! I don't think it was groundbreaking and I am sure we could improve upon it- but it was good, cozy and satisfying. I liked it, and wouldn't mind trying it again some time- The pears were poached in a white wine, lemon and sugar syrup with a little vanilla and lemon peel. Then we drizzled a caramelized pear reduction on top and included a scoop of store bought caramelized pear ice cream. Then we added a little of the warm syrup to meld it all together. If you like pear, or even that apple crumble type taste- this is that kind of dish.

In my opinion, dinner was a success and we had a great time. I hope you all had a fun and safe evening and aren't nursing headaches today! Sadly, my Champagne toast was replaced with ginger ale, but then again....I do lover ginger ale!
Happy 2009 everybody!

Happy New Year

2008-12-31T07:14:00.000-08:00

I am at work for a half day today and can't wait to get home! I was super lazy and drove the car to work and parked in a lot near my office. I will be paying nearly $20 for 4 hours of park time. I hate wasting money, but the idea of parking further away and taking a bus to my car seemed like a waste of time and seemed to defeat the purpose of driving in the first place. (I feel like I deserve it at this point since I am 34 weeks today!) Do you know that I have only had ONE mani/pedi since I have been pregnant and I have YET to get a massage or any other pamper treatment!!! I know it is because of the timing of everything- buying a house is so expensive, and now every dollar seems to count. Plus we will need to pay for childcare soon, and we just bought a VERY expensive camera- wasting money seems so more frivolous now. (like the parking today- that could have been a manicure!)

Speaking of wasting money! Tonight is New Years Eve!
Big Guy and I decided to stay in a cook a french meal together- we went all out since it is the two of us and we'll be having the works!
I think we have six courses planned- I hope they all work out.

1st Course: Mini potato pancakes with creme fraiche and caviar

2nd course: Shrimp with coconut orange vinaigrette on a bed of red oak lettuce (inspired by a dish at Froggy's in Highwood)

3rd Course: Escargot with herbed garlic butter

4th Course: Crispy ostrich with broth and homemade almond butter smear (inspired by a dish at May Street Market in West Loop/West Town)

5th Course: Grilled duck breast with black currant sauce (inspired by a dish at Froggy's in Highwood)

6th Course: Poached pears with caramel sauce and ice cream

This will definitely be a sink or swim situation. Hopefully it will be fun instead of stressful- and it was all Big Guy's idea! I am looking forward to spending time together cooking!
I will take pictures to let you know how everything goes. I hope everyone has a fun and safe evening!

Winter Wonderland....enough already

2008-12-22T06:12:00.000-08:00

If you live in the Chicagoland area- chances are you don't care about having a White Christmas anymore- you are sick of the stuff already! (the above picture is from the Internet- I didn't take it, i took it from here- http://www.crh.noaa.gov/Image/lot/27772566.jpg)

Hopefully you didn't have to venture out much on Friday! My office was closed due to the weather, so I stayed inside virtually all day doing nothing much at all. I managed to get a little work done, but spent the morning lounging with Big Guy watching National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation. It was a nice and lazy day- followed by a hectic Saturday gift hunting for Big Guy's family and a very cold Sunday. Big Guy Shoveled the back of the house near the garage and little paths to the door at least once a day! I think the novelty of the whole " it is winter, I am a man and I will shovel my land," thing has worn off. Poor thing.

On another note, Big Guy has expressed some interest in slimming down, and I have been trying to help him think of ways to do this. Unfortunately, a gym membership isn't really in the budget right now, and he has never been one for running- especially in winter, so we may be limited to the whole jumping jacks, sit ups and push ups routine, but I wondered if anyone had ideas of healthy lunch options and dinner options for that matter, that might keep him on the right track?

I hope all of you have a nice holiday this week. I am working tomorrow, so I should have one or two more posts in me this week. I am hoping to get some nursery pics and some holiday decor pics up before Thursday.

Happy Holiday to all of you- stay safe and have a wonderful week!

I am including some winter wonderland shots from around our house

Holiday Gripe

2008-12-17T09:32:00.000-08:00

I removed the post- I am trying to be more in the Holiday Spirit- no more griping.
Thanks all for your support.
By accident, I deleted some comments - so please don't take it personally if your comment isn't visable.
Thanks

32 Weeks!

2008-12-16T08:44:00.000-08:00

I can't believe that I am 32 weeks along! It seems like just yesterday that I told you all that I was going to have a baby! It has been a roller coaster so far, but I can't complain. I have managed to avoid many of the really hard parts of pregnancy that so many people have to deal with and I am so lucky to be pregnant at the right time for me-many people get pregnant too soon or have to go through a lot of waiting a frustration before it happens for them and I think of them whenever I am feeling sorry for my big fat bloated self and remember how lucky I am.

At this point- my little preppy baby is around 4 lbs and 19 inches long. He is moving around so much at this point that I sometimes worry that he must be huge! He feels very strong, and rolls and turns and kicks and pushes and generally seems like he is having a wild time inside my belly. I am very excited to see him soon and can't wait to hold him.

I recently found out that my cousin and his wife are also expecting a baby- they are due in may- and I am very excited that our group of cousins has started having kids- I think it will be so much fun to see them all grow up together. Although they live in NYC, I hope our children grow up to be great friends.

We have been busy getting ready for the Holiday that seems to be sneaking up on us really quickly! Budgets are tight this year, so i have been trying to come up with thoughtful and or handmade gifts for family members. I had the idea of doing a dinner exchange with Big Guy's sister. Instead of giving each other presents, each couple could cook be in charge of an interactive night of cooking. Since both couples love to cook, I thought this might be a fun way to spend time together while doing an activity that we enjoy. For my parents, I was planning to make them matching T-shirts with our preppy baby's name on them- I know it sounds strange, but that is what my dad wants, so who am I to argue. The tricky ones are Big Guy's parents! I wish preppy baby was going to be born in time for Christmas so that I could just give framed pictures of him- but no... I will have to think of something else...any ideas?
What are you all getting for your in-laws?

Sorry I've been MIA

2008-12-10T08:37:00.000-08:00

I haven't posted in a while- sorry. I have been so busy and pretty tired too! After Thanksgiving, I was exhausted and it took me a while to recover. Then I had a little pregnancy scare that sent me to the hospital wondering if this was it- was the baby coming early?
Warning TMI ahead:
I was having discomfort for about 12 hours before I called the doctor and asked if I could take anything that might safely assist me in going to the bathroom- I hadn't gone for 3 days and it was starting to be a problem. I would run to the restroom every 15 minutes thinking this was it- I had to go! and then nothing...eventually, it started to be painful and I was having stomach pains and cramps in waves. I called the doctor again, and they said that it could be labor! I am only 31 weeks, so obviously, I would prefer NOT giving birth at this time, but I knew that the baby would most likely be OK- most of my panic was due to the fact that I hadn't mentally prepared for this and that the baby would need help to fully develop- and who wants their baby to have to go through all that. I got to the hospital and fully expected them to examine me and send me home, but they sent me upstairs to Labor and Delivery! When I got up there, I fully expected them to examine me and send me home- but they put me in a gown and in a bed and strapped monitors to me and said that I was having contractions! It was all a little surreal and the whole time I was expecting everything to be a false alarm and no big deal...

Well, it turned out fine- I was not dilating, so the contractions were likely caused by stomach and bowel spasms (I told you this was TMI) and they made me have a procedure that aided in going to the bathroom (again...TMI). It was very uncomfortable and actually kind of humiliating- but I know it was for my own good- and afterwards, I felt so much better and after a day of resting, my contractions are a thing of the past. It was a strange and unpleasant 24 hours, but at least everything worked out and it was a sort of dress rehearsal for the real thing. Now we know where to park, where to go and even how to work the TVs!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2008-11-26T09:20:00.000-08:00

My Menu:

Pumpkin Soup

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Parmesan Garlic Roasted Butternut Squash

Mini Cheddar and Gruyere Au Gratins

Brussels Sprouts with Fried Shallots

Pancetta and Sage-Butter Rubbed Turkey

Gravy and Cranberry sauce

Apple Pie

Pumpkin Ice Cream Torte

I have an ambitious menu planned and 15 mouths to feed for my first Thanksgiving, and I am very excited. I am heading home early today to brine my turkey and put the finishing touches on my decor and table settings!

I hope everyone has a lovely holiday and can enjoy the long weekend spent with family and friends-or however you choose to spend the time.

Hooters...I'll explain

2008-11-24T13:57:00.000-08:00

Two of my closest friends came to town this weekend to see the new house and spend some time with me before the baby. It was so much fun to see them show them my house and my new neighborhood. I had a commitment on Saturday to go to Lunch with my husband and his Grandmother, but my friends had already planned to meet up with another friend for lunch- so it wasn't a big deal. I still wasn't happy about the timing, since my husband had agreed to the lunch without my go-ahead and because it took time away from hanging out with girls that I don't see very often. BUT I rose above because it is difficult for his Grandmother to get around, and if this time didn't work, who knew when we would find another. THEN, I find out that she wants to go to HOOTERS. I couldn't believe it! Why would you take your grandson and his pregnant wife to lunch at HOOTERS? Why not just come and see our new house! Why not go somewhere not centered around beer and boobs! I was not happy. Big guy told me he wanted to buy me a new outfit for lunch so that even if I wasn't happy about where I was- i would feel great about how I looked. This worked and I decided to grin and bear it. Saturday came and we loaded into the car and hauled off all the way to the city. We had just gotten off the highway and were headed towards the "Restaurant" when I asked- what time are we supposed to be there. He called his mother to find out if she had arrived with his Grandmother- only to find out that she wasn't downtown- she was planning the lunch for NEXT Saturday. I just started crying. I don't know why! I couldn't stop. I was just so tired and disappointed that we had gone through all the trouble to get ready and drive down town and would now have to fight the northbound traffic and waste the valuable time I would have spent with my friends- for nothing! I was just upset. I told Big Guy that I wasn't mad at him, and that I understand that people make mistakes, but also that this was not the way I organize a lunch date! I confirm! I double confirm- I know what time to be there! and WHAT DAY! We finally got home and I had stopped crying when I looked in my dining room and it is filled with people!!! My friends had thrown me a surprise baby shower!!! There was no Hooters lunch- (that part was Big Guy's idea of a joke, which now I admit is pretty funny.) I have a few pictures that I wanted to share. Everything was blue and brown and so cute! I have such great friends- and I had a great time. The gifts I received were so generous and thoughtful and my little preppy baby even got a silver spoon from Tiffany- which of course all my friends thought was just hilarious...punks...

All in all it was great- minus a few tears.....but hey- I am pregnant...that is my excuse.

Dining Room Update-mini post

2008-11-20T09:05:00.000-08:00

Not sure If I have already shared this, but we painted our dining room Navy Blue. The way this coordinates with the new living room furniture makes me so excited about the way everything works together. The green throw pillows on the couches pop even more against the navy backdrop in the distance. I thought I would share pictures of the dining room. I need to re-cover the chairs and choose a rug, but otherwise, I am pretty happy with how it looks. Plus my Vera Wang vase looks so great with Hydrangea from my yard- they have stayed green for over month now and even though I am pretty sure they are dead- they look fabulous.

House Update

2008-11-19T05:38:00.000-08:00

We have been in our house now for about a month and a half and we are making some progress!
Last week, our living room couches arrived and against all sane advice and a lot of your wise council- we stuck with the white! They look really great, and although I am sure there will be stains in my future, we do have a stain warranty, where they remove stains or replace the couch. The coffee table also looks great, and I am beginning to dress the room with accessories and make it feel complete. I got some green pillow covers at Pottery Barn that I LOVE- but they were really overpriced, so I feel a little guilty about them. I also got an end table and will try to get some pictures of the room when I get more done. I really need to replace the floral curtains that are in that area right now because they are pretty awful.

We also made some progress in the past few days in the nursery! Big Guy worked all weekend with his Dad to put up the moulding/molding and it looks really goo. The pictures aren't that great because I was taking them at strange angles, but I think you get the idea. Additionally, we ripped up the carpet to expose wood floors that are in decent shape! There are a couple gouges in the center of the room, and eventually we will need to refinish the floor, but for now- an area rug will hide the scrapes and scratches and we will try to clean them up and make them look as good as possible. Big guy spent a few hours last night pulling staples and when I got home from running my million errands he surprised me with a staple free floor! This means that we can clean up, build the crib and start moving stuff into the nursery! I can't wait to see how it all comes together. I am really happy with how it looks so far.

Lunch Update

2008-11-11T06:03:00.001-08:00

By the way, the soup and scones are amazing! It was really easy to make both recipes and they are really good. I didn't pay much attention to the amounts for the soup. I just cut up a couple onions and carrots and added a few cloves of garlic and cooked them in olive oil in one of my big le creuset pots until they were soft and cooked through. I added a little salt, pepper and dried basil. Then I added 2 big cans of peeled plum tomatoes and some chicken stock. I pureed it all with an immersion/hand held blender right in the pot and finished it off by adding a little more broth, a little cream and some more dried basil and a pinch of garlic salt. It is so good. For the scones I followed the recipe and they were so easy. I may have added more cheese than called for, but I am glad, because I can actually taste a cheese flavor in the finished product. The point is...you should make this soup- it is really good- and the scones are pretty awesome too- I like to dip them in the soup....

Soup and Scones!

2008-11-06T14:35:00.000-08:00

This is what I am going to make this weekend so I can bring it for my Lunch nest week. I am sick of paying $10.00 for soup and a scone....

If you are ever at a Nordstrom Cafe, you should try the Tomato Basil Soup, which they always have- it is awesome. The scones are amazing too- but everything on Michigan Avenue is over priced, including lunch, so I have decided to to matters into my own hands and make them both myself!

Nordstrom Tomato Basil Soup

12 cups canned peeled plum tomatoes
3 lbs carrots, chopped
3 lbs onions, chopped
4 tablespoons dry basil
1 cup olive oil
2 gallons water
1 lb chicken base
3 quarts heavy cream
4 tablespoons kosher salt
4 tablespoons black pepper

In a large stock pot, saute the olive oil, carrots, and onions at medium heat for 15 minutes.
Add the basil, salt, pepper, and tomatoes and bring to a simmer.
In a large bowl, whisk the chicken base into the water until dissolved.
Add the water mixture to the stock pot, bring to a boil, and then simmer for 45 minutes.
Puree the soup using a hand blender while adding the heavy cream until it reaches a thin consistency.

(Disclaimer- not positive if the nutritional info is accurate since I found that and the recipe in different places on the web...)

Sour Cream, Cheddar, and Chive Biscuits:

Recipe from: Pinch my Salt

2 C. Bisquick

1/2 - 3/4 C. shredded cheddar cheese

2 T. snipped fresh chives

1/3 C. sour cream

1/3 C. milk

Garlic Butter (optional):In small saucepan melt 2 T. butter over low heat. Crush one small clove of garlic and add to the butter. Cook for a couple of minutes and then turn off heat. Brush biscuits with garlic butter as soon as they come out of oven.

Preheat oven to 450 degrees.
In bowl, mix together dry biscuit mix, cheese and chives. Blend milk and sour cream together in measuring cup then pour into dry mixture. Mix with spoon until just combined (do not overmix!). Sprinkle counter with some extra Bisquick and dump mixture onto counter. Knead gently a few times until everything is fairly well incorporated. At this point more Bisquick can be added if dough is too moist to work with. Pat out to 1/2 thickness and cut into biscuits (whatever size or shape you want). Place on ungreased baking sheet. Bake for about 8 - 10 minutes until golden. Brush with garlic butter (optional), place on rack to cool for a couple minutes then eat while warm.

2008-11-05T10:35:00.000-08:00

I saw this online and many things caught my eye---but it was this that really made me stop in my tracks!

Does anyone have a pair of boot forms like this? Where did you get them? Why haven't I thought of this before! I love the look of them, and the practicality that they provide--actually preserving the form of your boots and keeping them looking brand new and uncreased!

I have found some uglier plastic versions online, but wonder if I might have to hunt in some thrift shops or estate sales to find the real deal in wood.

Happy Tuesday!

2008-11-04T07:27:00.000-08:00

I voted! I feel like a dork for saying so, but it was so much fun! I have never been both home and old enough to vote before, so this was really my first official election! I really enjoyed doing my part. Even though critics say that your vote doesn't count and that it is all about the electoral college, I think that you have a duty to make your voice heard. There is a reason that they have the popular vote- and I think that at least it serves as a barometer for change and keeps the electorate in check.

Anyway, I think you should feel proud no matter how you voted. I hope to be happy on my way to work tomorrow instead of disappointed. Either way- I think it is going to be a wild four years! I can't wait to see what happens!

Things I love right now...non-baby related

2008-10-30T06:49:00.001-07:00

Pumpkin Soup, or anything pumpkin for that matter, bread, ravioli, cheesecake, pasta creme sauce, infused butter, jam, ice cream, candles, decor....I am in autumnal heaven.

Longchamp's Le Pliage Navy Medium Tote. It is only about $100-$130 and I don't know why I don't already own it. Pennies are being pinched these days, however, and every time I go to get one for myself I think of a thousand other things I should be spending money on before this...but I love it!!! Maybe this could be on my Christmas list.

Gap's Cozy Sweater from last year---I have it in Black and one in Ivory, but they are are ratty because I wore them so often. I was hoping to get new ones this year- BUT I CAN"T FIND THEM AT GAP!!!!!!!!!!! KIKI WHERE ARE THEY---PLEASE HELP!!! Tell Gap to bring them back!!! I need a LONG BLACK TURTLENECK SWEATER!!!! Trust me- I do! Every morning when I wake up and it is freezing in Chicago (well... now, the suburbs of Chicago) all I want to put on is a fresh Gap Cozy Sweater! They were long enough to be comfy and so so soft. They are heaven, and I need more. Kiki- are there any versions of this slated for this year???

Thanksgiving centerpieces. I love Autumn and Thanksgiving and I love decorating for the holiday. I can wait to think of creative ideas to dress the table and spruce up the house now that I am hosting Thanksgiving this year.

I know....So cliche, but I am wearing them right now and they are so cozy that they almost make me forget that I don't have a new Gap Cozy sweater....

Fresh flowers...and this vase. I love this look-- Even though it is a bit off season, I think it is still OK to say one last good bye to nice weather and have a bright floral arrangement in the house- You needn't stick to just browns and golds and oranges just because it is cold outside. I was at the store the other day and saw a gorgeous spread in the floral section of Blue hydrangea, bright yellow callas, purple Iris, and happy white fluffy spider mums. I wanted to go nuts and get a whole slew of beauties, but again....penny pinching.....

Belted sweaters. How cute are these? I really wish I wasn't getting too fat for my skinny jeans because this sort of sweater would look so cute with my riding boots and jeans....and maybe a matching tam and a bright scarf.

Hotel-like guest rooms. I love the soothing, calm and posh look of this room. I think it is from one of Gwyneth Paltrow's houses. I get to decorate the guest room in our new house since we just bought a new bed and we are moving ours to the guest room. This means new curtains, maybe some fabric on the walls, new bedding...maybe a basket for guest toiletries??? Ohhh- I hate penny pinching! Maybe this is worth a little spending.....

Fun fabrics and furniture. I love that I can finally start picking things out for my home. It all costs a pretty penny, but it becomes more permanent and real when you can pick things out for a home that you know you are going to be in for a while. I am loving this bench for my porch or entryway!

Nursery Details: Questions answered

2008-10-28T12:46:00.000-07:00

Paint Color: Restoration Hardware: Atmosphere Blue-- I also really like the Seafoam color --sounds green but isn't- seems light a lighter version of Atmosphere blue.

Glider: Storytime Series by Best Chair. We looked everywhere and plush gliders seemed to be $1200 or more! We went to Lazar's in Lincolnwood and bought one out of their showroom so we got a great deal- but usually you can find them for a few hundred less than any others I have seen-- (not including crappy ones) plus the brand got an A in the baby bargains book!

Bedding is from Restoration Hardware in the color Cloud.

Let's Tidy up the Nursery

2008-10-27T12:14:00.000-07:00

Big Guy started painting the nursery this weekend and I am so excited to see how it all comes together. He will put on the final coat tomorrow, and then this weekend we are putting up some frame moulding (large squares) in white.
Then we have a big brown plush glider- I have included a picture of what it looks like- except that ours is brown with small blue polka dots and the piping isn't solid. We have a dark wood crib

with a dresser/changer that I don't have a picture of- but it is rather simple. I am still thinking about the curtains and bedding- but I am pretty sure I like the look of this bed skirt--in blue.

New Coat!!!

2008-10-23T09:33:00.000-07:00

I Love my new coat! I think the color is so flattering with my coloring since I am fair, and I think the darker color will be better for when I have to deal with little sticky grubby hands (So I make sense with my coats but not my furniture color choices-oh well- I have never been rational so why start now.)

I bought the small and it looks a little silly now, since I can't really button it, but I didn't want to buy a medium and then have it be too big for the many years of wear that I hope to get out of it--Let's hope this one last longer than my other one! Big Guy bought me this coat in the Trench color last year and I wore it in the fall and then spring came and the coat started to fall apart! The quilted stitches started to unravel and pardon my demand for quality, but that is just not what I would expect from Burberry. Luckily, Big Guy purchased it at Nordstrom, because I had tossed the receipt because I was sure that I loved the coat and it had been a year since we bought it. Nordstrom was so helpful and made the exchange for me. At first I was upset because I wasn't able to exchange for the same coat- The Trench color now comes with goldish-bronzy buttons that I just didn't care for- so after much debate, I decided to get the Peat color and I love it! Although this time I am KEEPING THE RECEIPT!!!!!!

Another Question....

2008-10-21T11:19:00.000-07:00

How do I buy a bed? Do you have to go to a separate store for the frame and the mattress--How do I avoid paying an arm and a leg and still get a good bed?
Any thoughts on this would be very helpful....

Am I Crazy?

2008-10-20T15:05:00.000-07:00

I am about to go purchase 2 Settees for my living room and they are white..... They are off-white, maybe ecru to be fair....but still white! ....Am I nuts?

They are gorgeous and they come with a stain warranty- which is nice. But I worry because I am starting to have kids and wonder if I am setting myself up for disaster. My family room, where we'll spend the most time has a sturdy brown microfiber big comfy couch, and these will be more for chatting and sitting by the fire, and Big Guy is so sold on them he won't even look at anything else- and they are GORGEOUS.....

Am I crazy?

I LOVE IT!

2008-10-16T07:33:00.000-07:00

I discovered a new blog thanks to Mrs. Preppy. It is called The Long Thread and it is exactly what I have been looking for! She has lots of projects and crafts and features an weekly "Make it Monday" where she shows a new project you can do! In times like this when you are stressed by work, the economy and even global and environmental issues, sometimes you just need a source of silly happiness and I think projects and crafts can be a source of relief or creative release!

Baby on the Brain!

2008-10-14T08:49:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow marks 23 weeks down and 17 to go! That kind freaks me out because I am an inconsistent rounder. Big Guy is always laughing at the way I skip forward. I see 17 weeks to go and all I can think of is-- that is close to 12 weeks which was really no time at all!!! I have so much to do and so many decisions to make! It is a little daunting and after an unsatisfying stroller test drive last night, I started crying in the car. Big Guy didn't understand why I was so wrapped up in the stroller until he realized that it was the bigger picture that had me all worked up. The stroller wasn't the issue, it was the stroller decision- and how do I make the right one that represented ALL of the other decisions I have to start making! I just want to make the right choices and everything is so expensive that I can't afford to make a big mistake. I need to choose a crib that is safe and durable and pretty all in one and the same for the stroller and the car seat and I need to figure out childcare for when I go back to work, and I need to choose the wall color for the nursery which means I need to choose the bedding pretty soon as well.

Now I know some of you are thinking- hey, that isn't what having a baby is about, and believe me- I am well aware. I have the baby in my belly- I understand all of that! That isn't the part that worries me because I KNOW that I will love the baby and I know that we are going to do everything that we can to give him all that he needs and raise him to be kind and polite and loving and chivalrous and thoughtful and amazing- call me crazy but that doesn't worry me much because I know how much we love him already and he isn't even born! What has me stressed out is all the stuff I have looked forward to making just perfect and pretty and fun since I was a young girl. I have looked forward to picking out this stuff for so long that the decision now seems daunting! I just don't want to waste all of our money on a bad product and have to replace it.

On a less stressful note- I needed to cheer myself up by making some easy decision purchases, so I snagged these at a bargain!

I actually got the sweater in navy with red stripes but couldn't find the picture online.

The actual Polo I found had more Navy with the red and white stripes. Big Guy has the same shirt so I couldn't resist.

I had some questions for the Mums and Mums-to-be out there. Do you have any thoughts on my top two stroller pics. Please be gentle if you hate them both- but still give it to me straight.

My top three choices are the Uppa Baby Vista, the Quinny Buzz and the Bugaboo Chameleon. I really liked the Chameleon until I tried to fold it and unfold it. I am not strong/coordinated enough to do that multiple times a day. It seemed like that was a stroller for those who don't need to put it up and down much. Then I was really sold on the Quinny, but I was worried about functionality since there are many many moving parts, and the wheels are air filled- but I loved the way it worked and handled. Then I saw the Uppa Baby which seemed to combine the best of both strollers- its adjustments were smooth instead of jerky and awkward. It looks utilitarian yet preppy, much like the Bugaboo, but it folds up as easy as those BOB strollers everyone likes.

Top Choice: UPPA BABY. This seemed to have the look that I like- but with a little more ease of use. It looks like the Bugaboo, but acts like the Quinny

The Quinny Buzz: Easy to maneuver and unfolds with one touch

The Bugaboo Chameleon: Stylish and durable with lots of adjustments and millions of color options

Short and Sweet......and CUTE

2008-10-09T14:57:00.001-07:00

How cute are these!!!! I want them for Big Guy and me!

Big News!!!

2008-10-02T13:51:00.000-07:00

We couldn't be happier! We have what appears to be a healthy and on-track baby boy on the way! You should have seen Big Guy's face when he found out that we were expecting a boy- he was so surprised and happy. I am sure I would have been just as surprised and excited if I was having a girl, but it is just so fun to be able to picture your baby and think about them as real..I can't explain it. PLUS it is great to stop saying "it."

Directly after our appointment, Big Guy went straight to Gap and bought this

Monday Monday

2008-09-29T09:00:00.000-07:00

This is the big week!!! Wish me luck and keep Big Guy and me in your thoughts and/or prayers!

I will try to remember to take lots of pictures of this next week to share with all of you and I will let you know what we find out at the Doctor's appointment. I am pretty worn out from being sick last week and packing all weekend, but I am doing my best to remember to take it easy and try to relax and that some things aren't worth stressing over. We got a dining set as a gift from Big Guy's parents and it looks pretty great! It was a great deal on Craigslist and a real lucky find since I am not sure of we would have been able to afford to get a nice one for a while, since we have a pretty long list of to-dos for our 100 year old house!!! I couldn't find a good picture to show you, but the people that we bought it from are selling their house so I just grabbed the picture from their real estate listing since it showed the table and part of the hutch/buffet

I had a pretty rough morning. A horrible bus driver tried to kick me off the bus because my transit card expired and the stupid CTA didn't send me a new card in time and my car had a flat, so I dropped it off at the car place near our apartment and I found out they couldn't patch it and Big Guy had to buy me a new tire. I am trying to stay in good spirits though- because I know it is better for me to stay calm and not freak out about things like this- although my pregnancy hormones did kick in and I was tearing on the bus. I hope that bus driver feels like crap.

buy this time tomorrow- I will hopefully be a homeowner!!!

Count Down

2008-09-26T07:50:00.000-07:00

6 Days until we move
5 Days until we find out if we are having a healthy baby boy or girl
4 Days until we close on our new house
3 days until I need to have the apartment packed up
2 Days until the end of our last week in the city
1 day until the weekend

Big Guy and I have an exciting week ahead of us, and although I am sure it will be stressful, I am really excited to start the next part of our lives and get to know our new neighborhood.
I am so excited to spend fall in our new home and can't wait to have Thanksgiving and Christmas feel cozy and traditional again!!!

Pay it Forward: My Adorable Key Fob from Preppy Pink Lizard

2008-09-23T21:06:00.000-07:00

Look what came in the mail!!!! I LOVE my key fob. I love everything about it! It goes so well with my car, which probably sounds silly but it is true and it totally suits me! Thanks so much to The Preppy Pink Lizard.

I have promised, as a winner, to pay it forward and hold my own giveaway, and I plan to do so after my best friend's wedding this weekend- and I may even have to wait until after we close on the house at the end of the month but we'll see how we go.....

We're Moving!!!!

2008-09-16T19:43:00.000-07:00

Finally, I feel OK telling everyone about our house!!! It has been a long road and we have been searching for a home for more than a year. We have gone through many ups and downs and even had a close call, but in the end something (floor plan, neighborhood, moldy basements, TERMITES) always seemed to be wrong with every house we looked at. One house had a half bath upstairs near the bedrooms and a full bath on the main floor off the dining room. We had a house that we really liked that was way over priced and they just wouldn't come down to a price that fit the neighborhood.

Then finally, we found a house in a town we loved and we were elated when they accepted our offer. Then came the inspection where we found significant issues with the structure in the area under a kitchen addition. then came structural engineers and contractors and a battle with the sellers about who got to choose the contracting company and how much it would cost. I don't know if I have ever cried so much in my life. On top of the roller coaster of buying your first home, being pregnant has proven to be a crazy emotional firestorm as well. One day we were up and the next we were down in the dumps. One day it looked like the house was fine and the next day it seemed like the house could collapse at any moment.

At the end of the day we found that the house was fine--it is 100 years old, and so there are creaks and bumps and uneven floors but nothing out of the ordinary, and the sellers finally agreed to let our contractors repair the inadequacies under the kitchen-- so we are moving!!!! We are so excited and couldn't be more thrilled that this is almost over. Everything has been a challenge- I have had to point out mistake after mistake to our mortgage broker and our realtor and feel like I basically did both of their jobs for them--with the help of my brilliant mother who is a Mortgage genius. I have learned that not only should you not do business with friends (which I knew) you can't even do business with friends of friends!!!!

Please keep Big Guy, the baby( I am 19 weeks as of tomorrow) in your thoughts and prayers!!!

Also- Please keep my Best Friend K in your thoughts as well- she is getting married on Friday and three days ago the roof of her reception venue collapsed and because of an event in the area, there aren't any alternate venues or tents available for rent. Then the next day there was a windstorm that knocked out the power to the entire area and they are just starting to restore power to the area!!! It looks like things are going to work out--They were able to combine a smaller room with a smaller tent to accommodate the 350+ group.

K is holding up really well and I think she is amazing for keeping it together so well!!!

I can't wait to get more pictures of the house and the whole move-in and decorating process. I am almost certain that Big Guy and I are going to be paupers for some time- but I am sure we will happy in our new home!!!

My Morning! Warning: rant ahead.

2008-09-15T10:01:00.000-07:00

AGGGGGGGGGGGGHHHHHHH!

I feel like I want to tear out my hair and then take a nap! Why do government offices have to be to tedious and typical!!!! I need to renew my license plates, but I lost the paper they sent me in the mail to say I should renew them. So, I called the secretary of states office to find out what I needed to do. They were actually very helpful on the phone but the steps I needed to take seemed outrageous! First- I needed to go to a full service facility in the loop (downtown Chicago) and get a 7 day permit so that I don't get a ticket while driving to get my emissions test. Then I need to go get the test, and then I need to go back downtown and show that I passed emissions in order to get my new stickers! How am I supposed to do all this if I work 8-5 and they aren't even open that long!!! I totally admit that it is my fault that I had to get the permit thing--which they charged me $10 for, but really two separate trips every year to get my stickers renewed??? This seems soooooooo stupid. They should just let you get the stickers when you get your emissions checked!!! Also- I have been calling different offices for about 6 to 8 months trying to figure out which of the secretary of states offices databases-- apparently they have many!--has my name spelled wrong and no one seemed able to help me. NOW-- they tell me today when I asked AGAIN that it will cost $68 to fix what is obviously their error (they entered the O as a zero in my name and the u as a V...... I mean come ON!!!!

They just make me so mad!!!! Now I am sweating from walking so fast and my poor husband had to my car to the emissions test for me(what a sweetheart) and I have to go back there again tomorrow!!!!!!!!!!! AGHHHHHHHHHGGGGGGGGGG!!!!!

Preppy Accessories: Cute Key Fobs

2008-09-08T15:04:00.000-07:00

I usually don't respond to emails sent to my blog about products or merchandise--unless of course I happen to like the product independently. I was poking around a website that I learned of through an email and discovered these ADORABLE Key Fobs- and at $6, you could honestly order a couple of them!!! I think the colors are really cute and they seem lighthearted, preppy and girly. They almost have a Lilly feel to them. Anyway, I thought they were cute and I wanted to share. You can find them at Ann Veronica.

They also had this really cute racquet cover, but I might need to get better at tennis before I spend money on a really cute cover.

Banana Republic

2008-09-02T11:25:00.000-07:00

I have been avoiding BR lately simply because I didn't see anything that I liked online or in store and really thought that a lot of their stuff was boring or over done. They seemed to be heading away from my style. WELL- they changed all that with ONE ADVERTISEMENT in the September issue of Lucky Magazine! I LOVE THIS LOOK! I love the coat, I love the bag and I even might have to have the sunglasses. This might be the new MP for fall- I am in love.

LOOK at that bag! This is the first bag i have been really excited about in the longest time and for ONCE it isn't Balenciaga or Burberry---it's Banana!

(I couldn't find the bag on the website yet....)

I am in bag LOVE.

Best Friend's Bachelorette and Wedding Prep

2008-08-28T08:43:00.000-07:00

I am preparing for on of my best friends' wedding in September and I am the maid of honor. This means that I am supposed to throw a shower and the bachelorette party. Well, she lives in Louisville, so I didn't throw her a shower- which I feel a little bad about- but she was one of my two maids of honor in my wedding and she didn't throw me a shower so I think it is ok. PLUS I did drive 5 hours to be at her shower two weeks ago and now I am going back again to throw the Bachelorette party.

The picture above is my file for her wedding. Since I am far away, I tried to be helpful with ideas and input and searching for websites and pictures. I am very excited to see how things turn out.

This weekend we are gathering at a friend's house in Louisville and the tables will be covered in pink tablecloths and little brown ribbon runners with pink polka dots will add a little pizazz. I am also planning to have wine glasses on the table with pink napkins sticking out for a little flair. plus pink and brown balloons. I bought silver trays for the heavy apps; we're having a mini food theme. I am making mini tacos, mini pizzas, mini burgers and mini pigs in a blanket. I might also do an artichoke dip and maybe some sort of cheese spread. After food and drinks at the house we are getting picked up in the limo and taken to 4th street which is a whole area of bars that is under a huge Vegas type roof. It is kind of cheesy, but always fun. The whole thing will be a little hard for me because I have been so tired lately and stressed about trying to find a house that I have been a little worried about running out of gas. I really want to be fun for my friend.

I will be excited to take pictures of how everything turns out. Everyone is suppose to wear pink and brown to match the color scheme and I bought cheepie pink leis for everyone to wear.

I also need to come up with a pink signature drink for the party- if anyone has any ideas- please let me know!

Baby Update

2008-08-22T10:23:00.000-07:00

Some of you have been asking for baby updates and I am happy to oblige. I am due February 11. As of this minute I am 15 weeks and 2 days pregnant and my baby is about the the size of an apple. Some days my belly is HUGE, like yesterday, and some days it is pretty small, like today--I am in a regular vineyard vines cord pencil skirt without a problem. It all seems very strange and random to me but I am sure that once I POP officially, it will be big from then on.

I am feeling pretty well in general, although today I have felt a little crummy. It honestly feels like I went out and partied last night (let me assure you that I did not).

Big Guy is very excited, and makes time to talk to the baby every day even though we are dealing with a million things going on right now (More on that later).

I am so excited to be a mom, and I know it sounds corny, but even though being pregnant makes me feel a million different ways--Happy, scared, anxious, uptight, stressed, cautious, tired, excited and nervous, there is the overwhelming feeling that what I am going through right now is entirely GOOD, it is almost like saying a 40 week prayer- and I don't usually talk like this, because I am not a talk-y person when it comes to what I believe- and faith and all of that, but I feel very tied to something bigger than myself with this experience, as though I am doing something that it 100% good. It is hard to explain. I hate to get all deep- but that was the thought that occurred to me this morning while I walked to work from my bus.

Thanks for all the kind words, the interest and the support fro my bloggy friends! It really does make me happy!

Best,

MP

(picture from babycenter.com)

My Bed

2008-08-20T14:37:00.000-07:00

This is what my bedding looks like. It isn't girly, but I suppose it is still preppy. It is made by Ralph Lauren and it is all inspired by classic men's suiting. It has the pinstripe in the duvet cover and shams, the camel coat inspired blanket, The shirting stripe sheets and I even have hounds tooth Euro-shams that are supposedly supposed to represent the pocket square. I love my bedding, and I love that Big Guy really loves it, but it is difficult to decide how to design a room around it. I don't have the bed in the above picture and I honestly think a dark wood or leather would strike a better look. Anyone have any ideas for a wall color or accessories or even some ideas on how to finish the look- I am thinking I could go one of two ways- executive chic or old school gentleman's club. I like the thought of both but wanted to get some feedback.

Self Improvement Pledge: Status Report

2008-08-18T13:34:00.000-07:00

I was looking back at old posts and came across this one from January about my Pledge for Self Improvement! I decided to do a little inventory and see how I have been doing this past year- I still have 4 1/2 months left to finish what I started in case I feel motivated!

1. Lose 8-10 lbs......

ummm this one is not going to happen. I am actually not allowed to try to lose weight. Let's save this one for post-baby and for now I can focus on actually getting some exercise and getting into good shape.

2. Pay attention to what I put in my body

I think I am doing very well with this one. I try to eat organic when I can. I have avoided artificial dyes and sweeteners and I don't eat fast food or soda- except for ginger ale and the occasional sprite.

3. Chill out

Yeah- this one hasn't really happened. Part of it is due to hormones I can't control and part of it is just my nature-I do need to concentrate and make an effort to relax- stress isn't good for you!

4. Buy a house

I will have more to say about this later in the week....

5. Take Sewing lessons

I had about three lessons and I would love to take more- I think that this might be a fall activity for me.

6. Travel

We didn't squeeze in that final Europe trip-- oh well. We can always leave the future kiddos with my parents and take a trip- not sure if we will have the money once we embark on the road of parenthood, but if all else fails we will have to make up for it once the kids are grown. My parents just went to Switzerland and loved it- My father had never been before and my mom hadn't been since she was younger, so it was a nice thing for them to do together.

7. Be nicer

This is something I am working on- I am totally not there yet- but I am working on it. I take this one seriously because I think you teach by example. If I want my future children to be kind- or if I want others to be kind to me- I need to set an example. This means no more Catty gossip or comments about outfits or whatever- If I think someone is being nuts- let them be nuts! There is no sense in getting all worked up if it doesn't affect me.

8. Get Organized

ummm....kind of. I am definitely keeping the apartment tidy more often than not, and doing laundry in spurts rather than all at once. Big Guy has been helping around the house more and making the bed which is great. I still have a long way to go on this one.

9. Give

I can always give more-- my time, my money and my talent

10. Read more

I think I have been doing well with this one- I have read about a book a month which is pretty good since I usually just read on my commute! I need to keep going because I find that it really does relax me and make me happy when I read.

OK- so there is my list re-cap- I would say that I am not doing that well, but I suppose I have room to improve! I hope to move into this next phase of life with a good, happy, healthy, calm and organized state of mind....we'll see how that goes!

Swoozies: Nautical Style Party Section: Coming Soon!

2008-08-15T12:40:00.001-07:00

I happened upon this section when browsing the Swoozies website the other day and was excited to share! I can't wait to see what sort of Nautical party items they will add to the store! I love this store and browsing there is so much fun. I have only been to one location- and love to go back whenever I am in Naples Florida. We go to this mall, which is outside and really beautiful.
Anyway- just thought it was something to watch for!

Love it Hate it: Gap Edition

2008-08-15T11:04:00.000-07:00

It is time for the game where you post things you love and hate from one store: This time I chose Gap. I hope KiKi is not offended by the "hate it's", after all this is just one girls opinion and even if I can't wear normal clothes this fall, at least I can comment on what I would or wouldn't wear if not for the whole belly thing.

Love it:

Hate it:

Love it:

Hate it:

Love it:

Hate it:

Love it:

Bigfoot!

2008-08-15T10:18:00.000-07:00

Has anyone seen this? I don't know why but I just don't believe it at all. Even the picture looks fake. I keep looking at the calendar to make sure it isn't April 1st. I think it would be really cool if it was real, but I just can't open my mind beyond the thought that this is all a ridiculous hoax.

what do you think?

The Follow up

2008-08-13T08:33:00.000-07:00

Thanks so much for the helpful advice and information. It helps to hear that my doctor isn't the only one who has rushed a little in an appointment. Also, I agree that it is my own responsibility to speak up if I feel that I am not getting proper care! I would say something if I got a lousy haircut so why not something that costs 100 times as much! I decided to follow up with the office about the BPM and they responded very quickly that my baby's heartbeat was within the normal healthy range at 155- which is great. I am not sure if it is a boy or a girl based on the old wives tales that you can tell the sex from the heart rate- does anyone know that one? I don't totally believe in any of those things but it is fun the speculate.

Also, I am feeling better today. Yesterday I had a little bit of a rough morning but it may have been the result of an empty stomach. I made sure to have an egg, slice of cheese and half an English muffin before I left home today--Now if I could only remember my water bottle! Because of all that BPA plastic scariness I bought a stainless steel water bottle- it is so cute- but I keep forgetting it at home where it does me no good!

Heart Beat

2008-08-12T06:30:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we had a doctor's appointment and we were both anxious to hear our baby's heartbeat for the first time. We had caught a glimpse of a little flashing heart on an early ultrasound at around 7 or 8 weeks, but had yet to have that moment where we hear the heart and know that the pregnancy is real- and that we are soon to be parents! After hearing it????---all I can say is that I feel a little bit cheated! It wasn't magical! It barely lasted 5 seconds. It was very unceremonious and the doctor just seemed to rush through it- she placed the doppler thing on my stomach, moved it around a little, found it, and said- there it is... and then I said, "That is the heartbeat?" and I smiled and looked at Big Guy and then it was over and she was packing up her stuff and it was all done! There was no discussion, no- time to really digest what we were listening to- no EXPERIENCE! I feel sad that I felt rushed and almost like it was no big deal! I wonder if I made a mistake when I stuck with the teaching hospital instead of choosing a private practice? I thought they were supposed to tell me a number- something like a heart rate or BPM or something! but really- it all happened so fast! I don't know what to think about this. My next ultrasound at 20 weeks is supposed to be an hour long, so I suppose that will give me plenty of ooh and ahh time? Has anyone else had this experience?

Lunch

2008-08-08T11:36:00.001-07:00

How much do I LOVE Jimmy John's #6 Sandwich. I order it ever time I go there- it is always good, and it is the only thing that I know won't make me feel ill when I eat it for lunch. ( I have some pregnancy related after noon eating issues). It is provolone, cucumber, tomato, avocado and lettuce (It usually has sprouts but I am not allowed to have them). I really can't say enough good things about this sandwich. I love it! What do you girls eat for lunch- or what is your favorite go- to lunch food?

Helpful Hubby

2008-08-06T08:08:00.000-07:00

When we learned that we were going to have a baby, Big Guy and I were Cautiously THRILLED. We knew that a lot of pregnancies didn't progress to the 12 week point, so we kept a low profile and tried not to get too excited until we hit that point. For the first three months, I felt really tired and some days felt pretty awful- throughout the whole first trimester, I kept waiting for him to clean the apartment- to do the dishes, to take out the trash, do a load of laundry....ANYTHING!!!! And he never did! I had to resort to asking him to clean...and still nothing. We bought him an Expectant Father book- where they kept stressing how important it was to do more than your share around the house in those early days because your partner feels lousy--still....NADA... I cried, I hinted, I yelled, I alluded...NOTHING! Finally came 12 weeks and a major MELTDOWN. My receptionist at work told me I had a delivery- and I went up to get it and saw that it was a beautiful pink and green arrangement in the square vase that was wrapped in a pink satin ribbon and tied with a bright green ribbon. I was so happy because I thought, even if he didn't clean, he made the effort to send me flowers on the day that was so long in coming....and the first day I felt free to be excited! I looked at the card....It was from my parents...Big guy didn't even get me a card. He didn't clean the apartment. He didn't even say anything! Don't get me wrong- Big Guy is very excited to be a father and talks to my belly and reads his father book and is generally a very supportive man- but there was NO EXTRA EFFORT WHATSOEVER! Hence the major meltdown! It wasn't pretty- but I think it scared him straight. It happened Thursday night, and he took Friday afternoon off and cleaned the apartment. Since then- he has made our bed every day, and he even helped me make bachelorette invitations last night. He printed the text, cut them to size and even stamped the polka dots so that they all matched perfectly! He has done a total 180. It is so nice and I am reminded that he may be stubborn and a slow starter- but he is a wonderful husband and I love him very much.

Blog-y Shower

2008-08-05T11:40:00.000-07:00

The Mrs. from One Fabulous Mom is hosting an Online Blog-y Baby Shower since there are so many people pregnant- She is so thoughtful and has such fun ideas! Go check it out if you are interested. Thanks OFM!