Wednesday, December 31, 2008

Another Year

I know we kind of skipped over Christmas so here is a pic of the playhouse that I made for the kids. Most of the stuff is just hot glued on because I was so tired and my back hurt so bad by this time.


The kitchen sink:



Stove:

The fridge that will get sewn onto the wall with pockets sometime:

The windows (and the door that was covered in chocolate after about 30 minutes!)

Here is Munchkin washing her hands in the sink:


The kids favorite thing about the playhouse is shooting guns out the windows. I really didn't think this all the way through because when they use the playhouse, I lose my dining room table. So hubby is going to build a PVC frame for it so they can take it in the playroom. I am pretty sure it will fit over the picnic table, too... once the snow melts.


We kept it pretty low key this year with not a lot of presents. The most coveted present is definitely the Lambie blanket I got from Jen and Adam. It is super soft and the kids have been taking turns sleeping with it. It even already got puked on! (I am soooo glad it is washable!)


We are getting the kids a trampoline this spring. So we included an IOU from Santa for it. We would get it now but Munchkin can barely walk in the backyard with all the snow. She has to follow tracks or she gets stuck. So, since we don't want to dig it into the ground, we are getting one with a net and a ladder.


We are starting a new tradition this year. Instead of new PJs on Christmas Eve, we are doing them today-New Years Eve, and letting the kids stay up late in their new jammas. We went shopping this morning for them. I told the kids that they could put them on after they ate lunch because they were so excited about it. So they each ate about half a piece of pizza and a cup of juice so they could get into their jammas. They each picked their own:


We'll see how late they make it--seeing how last night, ET asked me to tuck him in at 7:20pm. Maybe we'll just celebrate at dinner...

Monday, December 29, 2008

Saturday, December 27, 2008

Validated

We were going to travel to my parents house after Christmas for the weekend. You see, they only live 5 hours away now instead of 11. On Christmas Eve, the weather was foreboding and calling for buckets of snow. Add that to the colds that all of our kids have and a still-morning-sick pregnant woman, and we were more than a little wishy-washy in our decision.

So on Christmas Eve, we decided that we weren't going to go. The prospect of days with nothing to do stretched before us.

Then last night, our decision was validated. Big time.

Puke-fest has begun again.

You're welcome, Mom.

Thursday, December 25, 2008

Better Stop Thinking Blue

We are having a girl. I am still getting used to it because I was really thinking it would be a boy. So here is my list of pros and cons.

Cons:
We don't get to use all of those cute baby boy clothes that ET grew out of so fast.
ET doesn't get a brother to play with.
I will have to do three heads of hair every day!
We have to figure out a girl name.
Three weddings to pay for.

Pros:
My babies are bald for the first year (and then some) so no hair to do.
We already have a lot of girl clothes, less the jeans Munchkin is thrashing.
Girls are easier to potty train.
We have a million carebears so plenty to share!
Girl clothes are so much cuter than boy clothes.
Most of the girl clothes are still out so less hunting and sorting.
Lots of girl cousins around the same age.
Two older sisters to show her the ropes.
There are more girl names than boy names that we like.
I can finally get rid of all those boy clothes I have been holding onto for almost 6 years.
ET doesn't have to share "guy time" with Dad.
Lots more snuggling and random hugging.
Lots of other people are having boys and will need someone to marry them off to.

So bring on the pink...again. Or still. I think I am okay with it just for the potty training!

Maybe this one will have hair.


Yeah right!

Wednesday, December 24, 2008

Merry Christmas


Getting Good At Lying

Santa comes down the chimney. Everyone knows that.


But how do you answer when you are asked how the tooth fairy and easter bunny get in?


Me? I am just putting everything on magic!


He asks, I answer with, "Magic!"


How big is the tooth fairy?


Why, however big you think she is.


Why does she take the teeth and make necklaces out of them? (That came from some book we read when his first tooth started getting loose.)


Every girl wants to be pretty and wear necklaces! Some people like jewels and others like teeth.


Will she bring me a present?


Of course she will! (because that's how we roll in this house--even if it meant another trip in holiday traffic with all the loonies--UGH!)


So I bring you our one tooth wonder and his new tub of clay. (which they started playing with at 6 am this morning!)

And...this whole magic thing just backfired on me. He said the tooth fairy would probably bring him a RC racecar for his other tooth. I told him that the tooth fairy had a budget of about $5 a tooth. To which he replied, "But she's magic--she can do anything!"

I am gonna have to rethink this before Easter.

Monday, December 22, 2008

One Down

I finished one of the kids big presents today. (That gives me two days to work on the playhouse!) I needed the living room to work on it so I banished the kids to the playroom and bribed them with popcorn, candy and cereal to stay there. But I am done!
It is a 7.5 foot indoor/outdoor hopscotch mat. We are trying to focus on active and imaginative play with our Christmas presents. So I just have to sew some bug beanbags and a ribbon to tie it up with and this is done. Thankfully hubby should be home most of the day tomorrow to corral the children so I can work on the playhouse.

Sunday, December 21, 2008

Daddy Duty

Hubby is on puke patrol...again!


Heaven help us!

Saturday, December 20, 2008

Tent

My maternity shopping is done. Well, as much as I can handle right now anyway. 4 shirts and 2 skirts.

That should get me through the last 20 weeks, right?!

Friday, December 19, 2008

Psych!

I hadn't thrown up in so long (since December 6th to be exact--which is really long in this pregnancy!) I was so sure I was past all that.

Not so much! The toilet and I got reaquainted this morning. But at least it happened 10 minutes before I took the kids to school instead of on the way there or at the school.

So 20 weeks and still "morning" sick. UGH!

Thursday, December 18, 2008

Where Does the Time Go?

Christmas is in one week. All of our shopping is done--except for the big present that we aren't getting until the spring anyway. The tree is decorated. There is a wreath in the window. Lights are up..inside anyway.

And there is snow. Lots and lots of snow! Now I did not grow up with snow. I am a snow scrooge. But my kidlets love it! LOVE IT! ET can stay outside for hours throwing snowballs at everything, sisters included. Target practice usually forces the girls inside, but without ET they, too, can stay outside for hours.

I feel like life is flying by! In one week, it'll be Christmas. Then a new year. Then my baby will be 2 years old. Then my oldest turns 6! And on and on and on. New baby, more school, new school.

So I am taking these next three weeks to enjoy my life as it is right now. Sure I will do some sewing and some cleaning (and of course, blogging) but I will also do a lot of playing (probably not in the snow) and just spending time with my family.

So thanks you to all the people who make my life better. Thank you to the man who brought our Christmas tree home so hubby didn't have to figure out how to tie it on the car. Thanks to all the people who teach my children. Thanks for all the birthday wishes yesterday, especially Clea who called and sang me happy birthday. Thanks to all my blog buddies for giving me a laugh or insight each day. But mostly thanks to my family and friends who make it all worthwhile. And my hubby who has to deal with his pregnant wife for the fourth time!

Sunday, December 14, 2008

Auto-Pilot

Some sewing projects can be done on auto-pilot. But everything I have been sewing lately has required thought and concentration. Like the bean bag that I sewed 3 sides on without putting any tags in. Or just this morning--Thumbelina's Christmas dress is too short, but the store was out of the next size up. So I was just going to add some trim on the bottom. I figured out how to do it...and then sewed in onto Munchkin's dress! AHHHHH!!! So I am trying to figure out if I just want to squeeze Thumbelina into the 3T dress or sew more trim on the bottom of the 4T.

Saturday, December 13, 2008

I Am Officially Crafted OUT!

I have been crafting all week. For some reason my little shop seems to be popular right now. I mailed out 5 orders this morning, and have 4 more to finish. Don't get me wrong-the money is nice--but my already sore pregnant back is screaming at me for sitting hunched over my sewing machine for so long.

Then there are all of the (handmade) presents for family. I (with "help" from the children) made presents for all the cousins, and I really had fun doing it. They all turned out really cute. And I am finally done!

Now I just have to make all the stuff for my kids. But I can only work on them during naptime and after bedtime. My plan is to make them a playhouse that will fit over our dining room table, among other things. I want to sew things on the inside for them to play with--you know typical house things. ...but it is very likely that the kids will wake up Christmas morning to find me under the table with a hot glue gun.

Thursday, December 11, 2008

One Year Older

First comes love...
Then comes marriage...
But Happy Birthday all the same.

Hubby turns 30 today. It's official. I am married to an old man. Happy birthday you big stud you!

Wednesday, December 10, 2008

Drugs

I am not a big fan of drugs. I will use Tylenol and 800 mg IB if I absolutely have to, you know like for the after-kids cramps that accompany every period. I made it through my first 2 pregnancies without taking more than one or two Tylenol cold pills just so I could sleep. When I was pregnant with the munchkin, I had to rely on Promethazine for a few days to catch up on sleep enough to be able to keep food down.

But this pregnancy is really starting to depress me. I am chemically dependant to get through most days. First it was the Zofran so I could stop puking, and now I HAVE to take a sleeping pill every night or I feel awful the next day. I hate feeling this way.

And then, of course, there is always the anxiety that I am doing some sort of damage to my baby. Feeling the baby move (finally) this week has tempered this somewhat.

Then again, there is always the chance that I am just instilling good sleeping habits in utero.

Monday, December 8, 2008

Nudity

Munchkin is advanced for her age. She can (and does) dress (and undress) herself on a regular basis. That basis being at least 3 times a day! She puts on shoes by herself. She can undo zippers and snaps.

But her most recent acheivement has been the removal of her diaper. And the first time she did it? Why when she was being babysat by our friends who have three little boys.

Buck naked three times in less than three hours!

Once again before church on Sunday, once in Nursery (thankfully she left her diaper on for this one), and again right before bed Sunday night.

And she is fast, too. Not once have I caught her in the middle of undressing. Fully clothed or naked seem to be her two settings.

At this rate, potty training in June should be a piece of cake...well, the dressing part anyway.

Thursday, December 4, 2008

All That Fits Is Pajamas

Today as I was taking the kids to school, one of the other moms said, "You are the only person who can look that cute in pajamas!"

The thing is maternity shopping depresses me so I have been living in fleece pants and stretchy t shirts. I even had hubby go and get me the cute ones they had on sale at Costco over Thanksgiving.

I have been sewing and crafting for days now. I mailed out 5 Etsy packages yesterday and I have another order to sew today. Then I have Christmas outfits to sew, presents to make, and then all the stuff for the kids. This year we (well, really me) are making most of our presents for the kids and then getting them each one toy that they really want and one big family present.

Our dryer is fixed now, so I have been running the laundry through for the past day and a half. I think I am about half done with the washing. It is so funny because the kids are finding clothes that they had forgotten about. "Mom! I haven't worn this in a long time! Can I wear it today?!"

And really, since I am just doing that and walking the kids to and from school, there is no need to ever get out of pajamas.

Wednesday, December 3, 2008

Emotional

I am pregnant. Therefore any and all tears that I may shed most likely can be attributed to said pregnancy.

Or the dryer guy not coming and fixing my dryer!


So I did what any pregnant woman with two weeks of dirty laundry would do...I broke into the basement apartment and used that guys washer and dryer for three loads.

Tuesday, December 2, 2008

Thank Goodness!

The dryer guy is coming today!

It is a good thing that we buy too many clothes for our children... and they like staying in pjs all day... because I haven't been able to do laundry in two weeks!

I have soap.
I have dryer sheets.
I am ready.

Now who is gonna fold it all?!

Sunday, November 30, 2008

Catch Up

A lot has happened that really hasn't warranted it's own blog post. Here we go:

ET is now a purple stripe belt in Karate.

Thumbelina is a Karate drop-out (but a brand new yellow stripe on the way out.)

Munchkin new favorite phrase is "No! I do it myself!"

Munchkin can buckle her own carseat in under 5 minutes.

Munchkin can (and does) dress herself every day. Including shoes.

Thumbelina's bangs are finally long enough to pull back.

We moved the playroom to the huge 'master bedroom' and finally got it all set up.

My dryer is getting fixed tomorrow.

I am making most of our Christmas presents this year. And I got two done today!

I finally got the counter cleaned off in the kitchen so the kids can eat in there again. Now we only have one room with food all over the floor.

Hubby has kept up on the dishes all weekend!

I still have a range sitting in my driveway. If I ever need more than 4 burners...

We still have lots of Thanksgiving leftovers--I may not have to cook all week!

I am bummed that tomorrow is Monday, hubby has to go back to work, and I don't get to sleep in anymore.

The Best Christmas Present Ever

I am 17 weeks pregnant. At my OB, they do ultrasounds around 20 weeks.

That means I get my ultrasound on Christmas Eve.

How cool is that?!

Thursday, November 27, 2008

Today...

As of last night around 6 pm, our dryer is still broken. The repair guy came and needs to order a part and will be back on Monday to fix it. So our dryer is taken apart and our dirty laundry has creeped into the kitchen under the counter. I start the oven to roast the sweet potatoes for Thanksgiving. They need to cook for 30 minutes. I remember them about 45 minutes later and rush into the kitchen. Little problem...the oven isn't even remotely warm much less hot enough to roast my potatoes (or my turkey the next day!!) My wonderful husband called our landlords to tell them of our plight. They laughed. Our dryer last week, our oven this week. (I wonder what next week will hold!)

Then they remembered that they had an oven at their house. An extra oven. An extra oven that worked and that they could bring over.

So less than 30 minutes later, my sweet potatoes were roasting away in a hot oven.

So while on this great Thanksgiving day I am grateful for so many things, I am especially grateful for that extra oven...and all the turkey I can eat.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Wednesday, November 26, 2008

Wonder of Wonders

Its a Thanksgiving miracle! I went to the doctor this morning and I have only gained...

2 pounds!

And that is since I got pregnant, not since my last appointment.

Whoo-hoo!

Now, I look like I have gained a lot more than 2 pounds, but the scale never lies!

It's pretty easy to not gain weight when food seems disgusting most days, and you have no cravings to speak of. I have only craved steak and potatoes so far. But that was the best steak (and a half) I have ever had... you know until my sister's dog ate the other half of it.

It is a good thing that my appointment was the day before Thanksgiving and not the day after because I am so excited for that TURKEY!!!

(and that the heartbeat was only about 120 beats per minute--very possible slow enough to be a boy!)

Have a great Thanksgiving!

Saturday, November 22, 2008

DRAMA

Thumbelina has been having a rough couple of weeks. Oh who am I kidding? She has been having a rough life. She cries when we walk home from school because her feet are too tired. She cries 45 minutes after breakfast because her tummy is still hungry. She cried at Karate when they called her up for her tip test. She refused to go up today to get her new belt. But the kicker was when we got home.

She cried because she wanted her hair out. I asked her why, and she said, "My hair is hurting my feelings."

I don't even know how to respond to that.

Tuesday, November 18, 2008

Pregnancy Tips

*If you have spent the last three months lying on the couch, moving two rooms worth of furniture (and 8 loads of laundry to the laundromat because your dryer isn't working) will cause you to be very sore the next day.

*The long shirts (mine are from Shade) do an excellent job of holding up your pants when you can no longer zip or button them.

*2 inch thick foam flip flops are my best friends-except in the rain where they become death traps.

Monday, November 17, 2008

Slight Misinformation

I have been lying to my son.

I know--not the best course of action, but I think I am doing it for good reasons.

You see, these are the lies I am telling him.

1. You can only be a father after you are married. (After he asked my 17 year old brother if he was a father to anyone.)

2. You can only get married after you get home from your mission. (After he asked my brother if he was married.)

While these are lies in the grand scheme of things, I hope they will become truths in his life. SO... does that really make it lying?

****

Last week he asked me if he could go on his "mission to outer space and tell the aliens about Jesus." I told him missions are pretty much earth-bound right now.

Thursday, November 13, 2008

Wednesday, November 12, 2008

Learning





At least she is learning the important things in life.

Tuesday, November 11, 2008

You've Come A Long Way, Baby!

Remember this?
And the subsequent this?


Look how far we've come! It almost looks like an on-purpose hair cut now!

Monday, November 10, 2008

Wisdom

Our children have some interesting ideas on life.

Thumbelina: How do you die? (Pause) Do you just get punched really hard and it makes a hole? And then all the air comes out and you go flat like a pancake? And then you die into a skeleton? Is that how you die?

ET: (talking about his Show and Tell at school. He told his class about his Karate class.) I told a teeny tiny lie. (We asked him what he lied about.) I told them that at Karate we got to jump through hoops that were on fire.

Parental to do list:

1. Have a talk about death.
2. Have a talk about lying, and possibly fire safety.

Sunday, November 9, 2008

I Was Just as Nervous

The Primary Sacrament Presentation was today. We didn't rush to get ready, we just started earlier. Both kids kept saying they were nervous. (Me, too!) We got to the church 5 minutes early and it was packed. We had to sit in the back. Both kids knew their parts, but only ET had ever said it in practice. Thumbelina was always too scared, which is about par for the Sunbeams. I bribed the kids with candy if they would say their parts. About 30 seconds before the kids were supposed to go up to the stand, both kids said they had to go potty. Typical!

Thumbelina didn't say her line (along with about half of her class), and didn't go and stand by them to sing their song. She sat in her chair for the first 15 minutes and then sat on a nice lady's lap...and fell asleep.

ET did great! Last year his dad had to go and sit by him because he couldn't behave, but what a difference a year makes! He said his line nice and loud (but not too loud--you know what I mean!), sang the songs and was quiet the rest of the time.

Thumbelina did let me do her hair without too much hassle. It is getting longer but we are still stuck with variations on the puffy braid. I had to run to the store yesterday and get some ribbon that would match her last year's Christmas dress from Grandma, but I made a cute bow (with absolutely no cursing) and her hair turned out great. She wouldn't let me take a picture of all of her.

(I gotta say it was so easy just having to occupy Munchkin today!)

Saturday, November 8, 2008

Why Not?

Who wouldn't want to jump in a huge pile of leaves? Over and over and over again.


Friday, November 7, 2008

TGIF!

Fridays around here are really just another day since hubby still has night class.

BUT...Fridays bring Saturdays; and that is something to celebrate!

Hubby home all day, cooking breakfast, changing all the poopy diapers, and ...

(drumroll please)

Letting me sleep in!

Well, maybe not so much letting me as realizing that I am not getting up with the kids so eventually he does.

But lest you think I am heartless toward my hard working husband, he gets to sleep in on Sundays.

At least until January and we switch to morning church!

Thursday, November 6, 2008

Snow Babies

So excited for the snow...
...even after 20 minutes of putting everything on.
And then 20 minutes later, Munchkin was done.

Maybe next time she'll leave her gloves on.

Wednesday, November 5, 2008

Tired



Daylight Savings Time Change is kicking our butts!

Tuesday, November 4, 2008

Winter Pregnancy

I am a cold person. I always use at least one more blanket than my husband. I am not a huge fan of the winter and cold and snow.

But now that I am pregnant with my own little built in heater...

I say bring it on Winter! Let it snow. Let loose with your frightful weather.

Because I am tired of being hot at night!

Monday, November 3, 2008

Things I Miss Today

I miss only seeing my toilet up close when I am cleaning it.

I miss eating only when I am hungry.

I miss not being sick of the smell of dinner by the time I am done cooking it.

I miss not falling asleep on the couch by 9pm every night.

But, last night I got to snuggle with Munchkin, who wasn't feeling well. And I have missed that, too.

Sunday, November 2, 2008

Miscommunication

My two oldest were playing outside, enjoying the last of the warm days before Fall really comes (in November?!), and were digging in the dirt.

ET ran inside. "MOM! Thumbelina picked up a rock and there was a black widow on it!"

Thumbelina comes trailing behind him. "Mom, I was outside and I saw a black window!"

*********

The other day we had pork chops for dinner. Hubby was finishing up in the kitchen when Thumbelina came in and said, "I really like hork, Daddy."

*********

But my absolute favorite is when she sings along with commercial jingles or songs on the radio. The melody is the same but the words...the words are very different.

Saturday, November 1, 2008

Fingers Crossed, Knocking on Wood

I had another doctor's appointment on Friday. He asked how I had been feeling and I was pleased to report that I have had 2 (count 'em 2) good days this week where I never even thought about taking a pill. He said it wouldn't go away all at once but I would find myself having more and more good days...fingers crossed, knock on wood.

While I was at my doctor's appointment, the doctor had a hard time finding the heartbeat. Since we have never had a problem finding a heartbeat on any of my other kids, I got a little nervous. The doctor kept going around and around on my baby bump. This probably only lasted about 2-3 minutes but it seemed like forever! Then he thought he had it for a second. More searching, and then we heard it. It seemed a little slower than Munchkin's (fingers crossed, knock on wood) but steady.

And I didn't gain any weight! This is the first OB appointment I have EVER had where I can say that! But now that I am feeling better, I am sure the pounds will come.

5 Year Old Conversation

I was helping ET tie his shoes for school. (The double knot confounds him.) And we were talking.

ET: I'm sorry you're sick, Mom.

Me: I know you are. Me too.

ET: I wish you were a woman who didn't get sick when she was pregnant.

Me: You and me both!

Friday, October 31, 2008

Halloweenies

ET carved a pumpkin...or rather directed Dad as he carved a pumpkin.
Batman--who in all the parades just looked mad.

Tinkerbelle-who cried no less than 7 times while putting on/wearing her costume.
And a giraffe-who's costume was a bit too small.
And all the makeup that I am wishing now I had never put on them!
HAPPY HALLOWEEN!




Thursday, October 30, 2008

Finally Finished

I have had all the fabric and stuff for almost a month. I really was planning on getting this done sooner. But, I think it turned out pretty well for not having a pattern, and just making it up as I went along. I am finally finished...with a whole day to spare!


Tuesday, October 28, 2008

The New Normal

Things are starting to get back to normal. And I can't be happier!
This morning, I threw up because my stomach was empty. Welcome back normal pregnancy throwing up!

Yesterday, I didn't take any pills because it was 11 am before I realized I hadn't, and I didn't feel too sick.

The kids are experts at entertaining themselves. Without any help from me, they left the TV off until after naps yesterday. But they are back to digging in the dirt. Also a lot of jumping on the beds.

They love to color with the 18 cent crayons and markers I bought before school started.
ET has been wanting to learn to tie his shoes. I showed him one time before school yesterday and he practiced all day. Sometimes he got it, sometimes he didn't--but he kept trying.

Then they took it outside while Munchkin ate Elmo's face.

Sunday, October 26, 2008

Sure Sign I am Feeling Better

All three kids had their hair done for Church!


With ribbons and everything! Now my hair on the other hand...

Saturday, October 25, 2008

Dear Universe,

UNCLE!!!

It's not bad enough that you saddled the pregnant woman with a lifetime of puking in two months, but you had to come after my baby and my daughter?

Then you took out my husband?! SERIOUSLY?!???!

And now my firstborn?!!!

REALLY!???!??!

I had this great post in my head yesterday about how we were finally done with all the vomit. Then hubby called from work. Apparently he and a garbage can had a fight and the garbage can stole all his lunch.

Still, I was prepared to look past this latest offense in light of the funny stories of Thumbelina cheating at all the school carnival games. I would have moved past the vomit and posted about that. Really I would have.

Then I was awakened at 3 am by the moans of my son and the horrifying sound of vomit hitting bare floor. I tore out of bed yelling (in my I-have-had-a-sore-throat-for-4-days-and-can't-talk-voice), "Don't move! Stay where you are!!" Poor kid was 6 inches from the garbage can and tossing his cookies all over my kitchen floor and dirty laundry pile. (If that doesn't get the laundry done tomorrow I don't know what else will!)

So hubby and I, two people oh so close to losing it themselves, cleaned up the mess and the boy, and officially call you out, universe! Enough already! This ends now!

And if you let an already pregnant and pukey woman get this---oooohhh, I don't pity you, Universe!

Friday, October 24, 2008

Looking on the Bright Side

I feel like I have been just complaining lately. Things just haven't been going my way. Lately it just seems that if it can go wrong-it usually does.

So here is me finding the silver lining:

BAD: I am pregnant and need medicine to get through the day.
GOOD: My insurance is totally covering all of it--more than $2000 so far.

BAD: I feel sick all day and occasionally throw up.
GOOD: I have lost 7 pounds!

BAD: My kids keep getting sick.
GOOD: They want to lay around and do nothing all day like me.

BAD: The kids have been throwing up.
GOOD: They aren't eating so I don't have to cook for them.

BAD: The kids have been throwing up.
GOOD: (for me) They have been doing it at night when Daddy can take care of it.

BAD: The kids have been throwing up.
GOOD: The laundry is getting done more often.

BAD: The kids have been sick.
GOOD: Staying in our pjs all day has become acceptable.

BAD: I have been sick for almost two months.
GOOD: The kids expectations of me are very low. We didn't carve pumpkins--just sticker faces--and they thought it was the coolest!

Now how about that?!

Tuesday, October 21, 2008

A Name Change

I think I should change the name of my blog to "The House of Vomit."

I know I really don't need to elaborate on that, but I'm a Mom, it's my blog and what would it be without poop and vomit stories?! I mean, really!!

Do you remember how old your children were when they had their first experience with vomit?

I do.

ET was 10 months. I was in the awful morning sickness stage with Thumbelina, so lucky for me, hubby got sick too and stayed home and dealt with the majority of the puke. Not very lucky for him.

Thumbelina was 16 months and we were visiting G&G for Christmas. It happened the night before we left to drive home and continued for much of the drive home.

Well, Munchkin hit a milestone last night. The latest one so far at 21 months. But her first vomit experience was by far the worst! Again, dealing with morning sickness, I totally got out of it. Hubby was up with her every 15-30 minutes all night long. But he left for work at 5:30 and she wasn't done just yet. She had nothing at all left in her system so it was pretty much just heaving. I just hate the look you get-like 'what on earth is going on and why aren't you fixing it?!'

I am totally blaming this on nursey!

Saturday, October 18, 2008

It's There--Whenever You Need It

If you have basic television (or quite possibly even basic cable) you know what the listing is like at 3:30am. It is simply one infomercial after another. On every channel. Now if you are in the market for a Magic Bullet or a Sushi Master, your opportune viewing time would be 3:30 am.

But if you have more than the basics, you have access to all types of shows, at all hours.

Suppose you have a child who vomits all over the place at 3:30 in the morning, barely missing her sister's bed, and you need to occupy said sister until the mess is cleaned up--by your not-pregnant husband, of course.

What's a girl to do? Before, we would have to find a movie for the child to watch. But that involves finding the movie case, remembering how to operate the DVD player in your overly tired state, and hoping that movie was one your child would watch.

But last night...just one push of a button and Munchkin was entertained by Lazy Town for the 20 minutes it took hubby to clean the mess and bathe Thumbelina.

Unfortunately, after dealing with that much vomit, neither hubby nor I were ready to go back to sleep. So I would also like to thank USA for airing Law and Order at 4am.

Friday, October 17, 2008

Finally Getting it Together

October is half over. Halloween is 14 days away.

I finally "decorated" yesterday. Do you want to see my pathetic I-am-pregnant-and-don't-care decorating?

I know it's like a professional came in and did it all up right!

Munchkin has a costume, ET has a costume, and Thumbelina has all the materials for a costume. I am pretty sure I am going to be a pregnant woman for Halloween, and hubby will be a full time student with a full time job and three kids and a pregnant wife--so his costume will simply consist of eye bags, and mine will consist of a puke bucket. I know--you wish you could be that creative.

Now, hubby is home for Fall break and I have several yards of green fabric and tulle to wrangle.

HAPPY FALL!

Wednesday, October 15, 2008

Here I Sit

The kids have eaten dinner. A healthy, nutritious dinner. You know, not corn dogs or chicken nuggets. All thanks to a great friend. She called this morning and this was our conversation:

Her: Hi. I just found out you were pregnant.
ME: Oh. (Realizing that I haven't really told anyone mainly because I have been laying on my couch since I got sick.)
Her: And I just found out that you are still really sick with it.
ME: Oh. (I know, I am a great conversationalist--just ask my couch.)
Her: So I am bringing dinner.

How great is that?!

(Mind you this is also the person who, during the last round of babies (I am the person who coordinates meals for the newborn families) when I was on my 2nd round of the ward list to find one last dinner, called to tell me she had made a double batch of dinner and did I know someone who could use it?!)

So the children are fed and are running around the house screaming--but not fighting, so here I sit.

My laundry pile ate my couch weeks ago (thank goodness we have three couches) and is flowing onto the floor. But the pile of dirty laundry is almost down to just the hamper, so here I sit.

My brother did my dishes, so here I sit.

I have a lot to be thankful for:

The phone bill that we forgot to pay on the first of the month but they didn't turn off our phone, or give us any late charges--sorry Qwest, I paid it today.

The dinners that I don't have to worry about because my neighbors and friends and most of all fantastic hubby take care of. And thank you for the disposable containers you send the food in!

The taxi service for ET to and from school, so that I only have to take him 2 days.

All the great comments I get on my blog from friends, family and internet friends. They really boost my spirits.

And the people who are buying things from my shop, (even though I haven't done anything since I have been sick) and giving me money for maternity clothes.

The great Halloween stuff from hubby's mom so I don't feel so bad about not decorating, or ever finishing Munchkin's pjs.

My friend (who for legal reasons shall remain nameless) who heard I was out of drugs and brought over her leftovers. And to her husband for helping hubby give me a blessing reassuring me I wouldn't die from the morning sickness.

All the offers from others to let my kids play at their houses. I haven't taken any of them up on it because I am a little embarrassed that my kids stay in their pjs most days.

Hubby taking care of Karate lessons and even taking Munchkin with him so I can get a break.

My brother entertaining my children. (My brother is also getting a lesson in what to expect when you live with a pregnant woman--his future wife--you're welcome!)

My fantastic sister-in-law, who sacrificed her fall break to drive down here and give the cousins a chance to play, and me and hubby a chance to get out of the house!

My sister who calls at least every other day to make sure I am not dead, and who is always willing to carry on a conversation with any of my children--even Munchkin whose conversations consist of a lot of "yeah", "uhhhh" and nodding.

Basically I have a lot of people taking care of my family and well-being so I can sit here (and lay on the couch) and not throw up. And to all of you--I owe you a big huge thank you. I am so incredibly blessed to have such great people in my life. Thank you for taking up the slack...now I am going to lay down.

Saturday, October 11, 2008

Firsts

ET is officially a big kid. With real live school pictures and everything. How handsome is this boy of mine?!! He is so grown up. He knew how to sound out words before he started school, but being in school has given him more confidence in sounding them out. At least once a day, I will hear him sounding a word out right, but saying it wrong. So, the phrase, "That's just how they decided to spell it," is a very common one in our house.
He is so excited about Halloween this year. I am so glad that we already bought his costume, and bought it big. The pj pants I made him at the beginning of the summer are almost too short. We got all the kids halloween shirts at the store today. That with all the great Halloween stuff from Grandma and we are all set for Halloween. (Thanks for the decorations, too Rhonda. I just don't have the energy to deal with finding our and putting them up. They are super cute!)
I even bought a huge bag of hard candy that is really helping to settle my stomach but will most certainly rot my teeth! Thank you for all the nice thoughts and comments (and for dinner Marenda--it was fantastic!) I really don't hate my baby. I just hate being sick all the time! But the mother of a kid in ET's class has offered to take him to school and pick him up three days a week, so that will really help out! Thank you!

Tuesday, October 7, 2008

What's a Pregnant Woman's Blog...

Without an ultrasound picture of the little parasite.

They also added 5 days to my sentence--I mean due date. But everything else was great.

Things a Pregnant Woman Should NOT Have to Deal With

1. Pink Eye
2. Diarrhea
3. Upset Stomachs
And that is just so far this morning. YAY US!

Sunday, October 5, 2008

Down to One (and a bit)

This weekend I lost two of my children. That's right. So now I only have 1 child...and the bitty one making me sick.

ET got upset with me when I was short with him when he came begging for food. But seriously--they will eat a meal and then 15 minutes later ask for a snack.

So he told me that he wasn't going to be my son anymore.

Then, while he was in Thumbelina's room sulking, they had a talk.

Thumbelina then told me that she wasn't going to be my daughter anymore.

I told her that was fine with me because since she wasn't my daughter anymore, I didn't have to feed her, or get her drinks, or let her print on my computer, or buy her toys, or any of those kinds of things. I made sure to mention that Munchkin would still be getting all of that stuff because she was still my daughter.

She said, "Well, I can still be your daughter if you let me print on your computer."

I'm still not convinced that's a fair trade.

Wednesday, October 1, 2008

School of Hard Knocks, Lesson # 142

Munchkin dropped a TV on her head today.

Hubby was watching the kids while I was at the OB, and I came home to blood and bandages--but a happy baby. I love that we are still in the 'bandaids make everything better' stage.

She has scrapes that go from her hairline to her jaw. I'm pretty sure she will have a great shiner later.

The crazy thing is that TV has been rigged like that for over 2 years, and it has never fallen until this week, where they pulled it down twice!

Tuesday, September 30, 2008

I Take It Back

Apparently my insurance isn't the devil. They approved the prescription along with a new one--the dissolving Zofran. I am still a little mad that I had to go without any meds for almost 24 hours, but during that time, I realized that while the Zofran isn't working as well as I'd like, it is keeping me from throwing up everything. I kept absolutely nothing down for those 24 hours.

Hubby is keeping up with my cravings. I am still super thirsty all the time, so he bought me a lot of fruit. I am pretty sure I am dehydrated. I still am afraid to eat grapes after pregnancy #2 where I threw them up every time I ate them. But cantaloupe is so yummy, and super juicy. And the KFC he got for me last night was great! Mama loves her fried chicken!

I go to the doctor tomorrow and I am going to try to wrangle an ultrasound. I am afraid I am only 6 weeks instead of 8. I am also going to have a talk with him about different meds.

I am officially sick of Saltines and Sprite. Just the thought of eating them makes me gag a little. But mostly it is my hyperactive sense of smell that is doing me in. Every kind of soap smells gross. I have been using my dish soap to wash my hands. And don't even get me started on Poopy diapers.

I am feeling better today. I have an order to finish and ship out. And hubby is home tomorrow.

Thanks for all of your kind words and thoughts in my behalf. You guys are the greatest!

Monday, September 29, 2008

Sunday, September 28, 2008

Today I Hate My Insurance

I got a 20 pill prescription of the Zofran. I was able to take one pill every 12 hours (as needed).

That is a 10 day prescription. Yesterday morning, I took my last pill and sent hubby to the Pharmacy to pick up my refill.

Insurance denied it and then had the audacity to be closed so the pharmacy girl couldn't find out why. So while I am not sure if the meds were working well, I am off them until at least Monday.

This may turn out fine but for right now, I am a little irritated that my insurance is jerking me around.

Saturday, September 27, 2008

Unicorns and Rainbows

I have been sick for 3 weeks. Laying on the couch sick.

I have been thinking for about two and a half weeks that I should talk to hubby about giving me a blessing.

But, usually, I am just so excited that he is home, I totally forget about it. But last night, after all the awfulness that was yesterday, I didn't forget.

So hubby called our fantastic neighbor to come and help.

While we were waiting, ET kept saying, "Don't worry. You won't be sick anymore after you get a blessing."

Faith is a wonderful thing. Especially when it comes back to you through your 5 year old son.

How's that for unicorns and rainbows!?!

On a side note, I do feel better this morning. Not only better but I actually have a bit of energy. The laundry totally has a chance at getting folded today.

Friday, September 26, 2008

Not Good

Today is not a good day. If you would like to skip my rant, feel free to come back tomorrow when I promise to post pictures of my children and a 2 sentence story.

I threw up this morning. I threw up while taking a medication that is supposed to make me not throw up. A medication that is supposed to help with the nausea but isn't.

While I was throwing up, I had to break up a fight between my children.

Mid-spew.

All food seems gross.

Any liquid makes me gag.

I was watching the presidential debate and saw Obama take a drink of water and I wanted to hit him! I am so thirsty but drinking just makes me feel worse.

I have tried exercising but that makes it worse, too.

I used to be able to walk ET to school in under 10 minutes. Now it takes me over 15 because all the jostling makes me feel worse.

If I can't reach a nurse tomorrow, I am going to stop taking the Zofran. Because it isn't helping with the nausea, and being constipated sucks. That's right, not only is it not helping with the original problem, it is creating a new one!

I try to go to sleep early but if I get woken up, I am sick all over again. And TV is not that interesting at 3am.

I think I am done now. I'd better go to bed.

Unicorns and rainbows tomorrow...if I am feeling better.

Wednesday, September 24, 2008

-EST

Wanna know the cutest thing in the whole world?

Every time Munchkin wakes up after everyone else, she comes out and says hi to everybody. Hi Thumbelina, Hi ET, Hi Shannon, Hi Mom...

Wanna know the annoying-est thing in the whole world?

Opposite day.

Monday, September 22, 2008

Late

So I was late for my last period.


Now, I have been late before...three times. Their names are (for the sake of this blog) ET, Thumbelina and Munchkin. I never actually HAD to take a pregnancy test. (Not that it ever stopped me either!) You see, my morning sickness was a pretty good indicator. With the last two, I was sick before I ever missed the actual period date.


So I was late.


But, I wasn't sick.

I, of course, turned to the internet, where you can get pregnancy tests for under $1. (The catch here is your order has to be more that $5--that's right--I bought 6 pregnancy tests. But, shipping was FREE!!)



The first one definitely had two lines, but the second line was soooo light...





...That I waited a few hours and took another one.



And then another one the next morning.



Then I waited. Three whole sick-less days. Yep, still two lines. But this time the second line was a bit darker. A little more definitive.



But I wasn't sick. Maybe I could get through a pregnancy without being sick. I hoped. I prayed.


And then...


BAM!


Nausea, vomiting, and a whole lot more nausea!

I called the nurse begging for some relief. She gave me Promethazine, which is what I took with Munchkin so I could get enough relief to sleep. This drug that did wonders last time, did absolutely nothing. After three days of waiting to see if it would build up in my system and work, I called the nurse again.


She said, "Have you ever tried Zofran?"


$5 later ($532 for our insurance company--thanks again!), I took my first pill. I felt relief! It was amazing! I could walk without wanting to puke. I slept great!


Now, my body (and my baby who hates me), has caught on and the Zofran is only working very sporadically. Which is why you have been treated to posts which consist of a couple of pictures and maybe a sentence or two.


So, YAY! WE'RE PREGNANT!


But I am only counting weeks since I have been sick. Turns out those tests are for in-vitro patients and can detect as soon as 6 days after implantation. So we are due sometime in May.



That's seems so far away!

Friday, September 19, 2008

The Amazing Changing Baby

Munchkin has figured out how to change her own clothes, which results in a mostly naked baby most days. She loves to play dress up with her sister's things, but her favorite item to put on by herself is her brother's underwear.

She hasn't figured out onesies yet, but I only have about three of those. So this is her latest style...
Removing the old clothes:

The new clothes--an upside down bib and bloomers.

I am seriously considering moving her dresser into her closet.

Wednesday, September 17, 2008

How Do I Love Thee...

Today, at this very moment, I love my insurance company.

Hubby went to pick up my prescription at the pharmacy.

We were prepared for a $40 copay because the nurse said that some insurance companies won't even cover it because it is so expensive.

He only had to pay $5.

I looked at the drug info sheet. This particular drug costs $532.99.



For 20 pills.

Thank you insurance for not only covering it but covering it well!

Tuesday, September 16, 2008

Arts and Crafts--Part 1

This was how our project started:




This was how it ended:

Typical!
Final pictures tomorrow.