It's like I knew.....deep down, I knew

So, the story starts back in 2005..... when there was just me, Mr Big Dubya and the 'lil Dubya.

I was so excited about his first Christmas.... everything had to be "just right" -- we ordered our Christmas stockings from LLBean.... and I wanted "Joy" from Pottery Barn to hang them. Of course, I balked at the price Pottery Barn was charging -- hoped for a sale, waited too long and they sold out.... I couldn't get them.

It was okay, I got some replacement ones to tide us over.... I knew I wanted baby #2 and hoped that for Christmas 2006 we'd need "NOEL" anyway...... and so in 2006 when we were blessed with the 'lil Dubyette, I was determined to get "NOEL" and with a little help from eBay we did.

We used NOEL for 2006 and deep down in my heart I really wanted to upgrade to "PEACE" in 2007...... hubby had other ideas.

But here we are .... 2008 with another stocking to hang by the chimney with care. Pottery Barn has discontinued "PEACE" (along with the others of course) but I have found it on eBay.... for a whopping $80 -- plus these suckers are heavy and I'd have to shell out some more money to have them shipped. I really, really, really want them -- but $80!!!! I just finished telling the Big Dubya that we need to cut way back this year.... how can I justify spending $80 on something so frivolous?

Maybe I'll just buy them and hope for a government bail out?

Happy Birthday Princess

I can't believe it was two years ago today...... my beautiful baby girl arrived in the world and I'll never be the same.

I believe in my heart that I love all my children equally.... 'lil Dubya, because he was my first.... he's sensitive, and funny, and kind and sweet..... he was the one that made me a Mommy -- he taught me how and was patient with me while I learned.

The 'lillest Dubya, because he's my last..... he's still revealing himself to us -- but he's happy and loving and easy going..... he was a special gift, one that I wasn't sure I'd be given -- I'm relishing every second.

The 'lil Dubyette.... she came in between them.... she's my little girl, my daughter. She's smart and sassy -- so independent, she accomplishes things with sheer determination -- her most oft repeated sentence these days is "No, I do myself" I so look forward to the mother-daughter things.... girls getaways with Granny & Aunt P.... tea parties and dance recitals shopping for proms.... wedding gowns..... grandchildren.

Happy Birthday my beautiful princess -- don't grow up too fast, okay?

Friday Funnies -- Things Overheard at the Dubyas

Mrs Big Dubya: Wow, you look so pretty
'lil Dubyette: No, (eyes fluttered for effect) I'm gorgeous
Mr Big Dubya: Yeah, we really need to work on that self esteem, huh?

********************

Mr Big Dubya: Gives 'lil man a grilled cheese
'lil Dubya: Daddy, I'm really proud of you
Mr Big Dubya: Uhm, thanks buddy

********************

Mrs Big Dubya: Dubya (shrieked at the top of my lungs)
Mr Big Dubya: What..... What are you doing up on the counter?
Mrs Big Dubya: Over there (pointing)
Mr Big Dubya: A dead mouse has you sitting on the counter?
Mrs Big Dubya: It's not dead
Mr Big Dubya: How do you know?
Mrs Big Dubya: It yelled at me

Happy Friday!

Blast from the past...

A funny thing has happened here in Dubya land...... somebody (the always brave commenter "Anonymous") left a scathing comment on a post I wrote.

Normally this wouldn't cause any type of curiosity on my part.... except -- this "anonymous" commented on a post I wrote on September 26th.... of 2005! Yeah, this person commented on a post I wrote 3 years ago, shortly after returning to work after baby #1 (the 'lil dubya) was born.

Weirder.... oh yeah, it gets weirder

Some nice person "Mary" commented.... defending me against this "anonymous" commenter. Thanks Mary.... you, clearly, have some inkling what it's like to be a mother.

I don't care enough about some "anonymous" commenter who doesn't know me (or maybe does know me, but doesn't like me very much) -- but just for fun I thought I'd point out a few things.... help him/her get a grip

1. Hey coward, use your name

2. Invest in spell check -- although I'm really glad you "LOTS" 35lbs I find all of your typos distracting as "ahould" you

3. I don't know what kind of rotten parent you are, or what rotten childhood experience you endured -- but, let me set you straight -- even on the most challenging of days "mommy-hood", as you refer to it, is the furthest thing from a burden I could ever imagine. I pity you if you feel otherwise. It's truly the greatest gift I've ever been given -- and if that means I have a c-section scar, regularly arrive at work with oatmeal hand marks on the back of my sweater.... or that this extra 6lbs is with me forever..... that's fine by me -- I've given the world three extraordinary people who will do exemplary things.

4. If you are going to read blogs and then comment on them..... learn to actually read. I didn't say I hated my friend, I said that "I enjoy my friends’ perfection"and that it's "perhaps even something to strive for"

5. Lastly, learn how to use tense. See, you say that you "used to be a fat, frumpy, catty, pathetic loser too always admiring other people" -- pahlease -- who are you kidding? you still are a pathetic loser..... "used to be" is a phrase reserved for people who have changed.

So.....

Dear Mr/Ms Politician,

So, I'm starting to think it's unavoidable.... my taxes are going up. Necessary evil? maybe... maybe not -- but, the little economy called "Mr & Mrs Big Dubya" is my responsibility -- and well, we've got to balance our budget and so..... some cuttin' needs to happen to make up for the increase.

Mr Big Dubya -- you've got to start ironing your own shirts -- yeah, I know you've got a great deal down at Santoro's -- but, we've got to trim the budget and every little bit helps.

You are also gonna have to start mowing the lawn again -- I know, I know -- that takes up a huge chunk of your Saturday Daddy & Kids time, but.... we just aren't going to be able to pay that guy to do it for us anymore.

The newly reinstated date night? yep, that's gotta go too -- the graduate student who watches the kids while we go out one night a month.... she doesn't do it for free and the restaurant... well, they expect us to pay for that burger -- and sorry honey, we are in cost cutting mode -- so buh-buy date night.

Cleaning Lady (that I hired when we got a tax cut) -- sorry, you do a great job -- but, you are fired.... it's no longer in the budget.

I haven't had a pedicure in months -- and well, I won't be getting one any time soon.

And here, Mr President (whomever you may end up being) is your lesson in economics -- you raise my taxes, and well -- people lose jobs. The dry cleaners will have to cut their staff if people eliminate the luxury of sending out their shirts. The landscaper may only make $30 off of us -- but a few other families cut out his lawn mowing services and well, that's one less helper he needs. Babysitter? Restaurant worker? Cleaning lady?..... all small businesses that are hurt by tax hikes.

So government, why don't you do some cost cutting and leave my already-too-high taxes alone.

Sincerely,
Mrs Big Dubya

Halloween

Remember the days of Halloween from our childhood?

It was before kids opted to have a Halloween party rather than to "risk" going trick-or-treating.

It was before hospitals offered to X-ray a kid's candy before it was deemed safe enough to take home to eat.

It was before malls hosted trick-or-treating because it was "safer" than going door to door in your own neighborhood

To collect our loot, we had an old pillow case or a plastic bag that the bank gave out for free.... now kids have embroidered treat bags from Pottery Barn.

Our parents picked up a costume in a cardboard box.... it looked something like this

Today, Batman looks like this

When did we lose the simplicity?

Date Night

On Saturday night.... we did the unthinkable!

We got a babysitter and we went out for dinner and a few beers -- totally casual, but it was really, really nice.

We struck up conversations with strangers...

We ate our dinner while it was still hot...

We talked about stuff that didn't necessarily revolve around the 'lil Dubya's continued fascination with his paci, the 'lil Dubyette's desire to use the potty even though she's not ready or the 'lillest Dubya's poop (or lack of) issues.

We laughed at the other patrons and their "fashion don'ts"

And when the babysitter called to tell us that the 'lil Dubyette had made herself throw up.... we didn't panic (she does this a lot)

We've been together 10 years on Thursday..... and this was our first date in a long time..... it was really nice .... and we need to do it more often.

Fall In New England

As much as I hate the cold winters...... this was a darn near perfect autumn weekend in New England, so we went shopping for pumpkins!

Bail Out?

I'm not going to go on and on about whether or not I believe in this bail out -- and I don't think "the democrats" created the mess or that "the republicans" are responsible..... there's more than enough blame to go around -- but I would love to hear the answers to these questions

http://www.LauraIngraham.com
October 1, 2008

Eight Bailout Questions

How many times over the last few days have we heard politicians, talking heads and other self-proclaimed "experts" tell us the reason the $700 billion bailout is so wildly unpopular is that we just don't understand it. The economy is complicated. Just trust Congress, President Bush and his royal highness, Hank Paulson. They'll fix it. Don't worry about that $700 billion number. It only sounds high.

Well. If that's the case - if we're really too dumb to understand what's happening - perhaps Congress can show us how much they know. To start, here are some questions I'd like answered.

1) Since the White House introduced the bailout last week, a number of alternative ideas have been proposed. For one, Michigan Republican Thaddeus McCotter wrote a 10-point plan that carries no cost to taxpayers. Others, like George Soros', are significantly less expensive and, in his estimation, likelier to be effective. Can you explain why this bill is the best option, despite being the most expensive?

2) We're told the bailout could actually turn a profit for taxpayers. Assuming that's true, how can we be sure the money actually ends up back in taxpayers' hands? For years the Social Security system took in more money than it paid out, yet instead of putting the surplus revenue toward future benefits, Congress snatched that extra cash for general expenditures. Likewise, Fannie and Freddie's "profits," were used for congressional pet projects. With this track record, how can we trust that this program will be any different?

3) The McCain campaign yesterday pointed out that the most recent housing bill gave the government nearly $1 trillion to purchase mortgages. If this is true, why exactly does Congress need to pass this monstrous legislation?

4) Does the latest version of this bill still "allow the government to purchase troubled assets from pension plans, local governments, and small banks that serve low- and middle-income families"? Americans are having a hard enough time swallowing the idea of a bailout for irresponsible home, car, and student lending. The notion that we'll be on the hook for insolvent pension plans administered by awful, union-controlled lawmakers in cities like Detroit and New York is simply insane.

5) Does the bill's preamble still proclaim that the law "provides authority to the treasury secretary to ... ensure the economic well-being of Americans?" Does anyone know if there are limitations to this seemingly unbridled authority? Otherwise, what prevents the Treasury secretary from becoming a de-facto dictator? This strikes me as especially worth discussion.

6) Are there still no meaningful curtailments of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac? Does the bill contain anything even hinting at accountability?

7) What concrete assurances do taxpayers have that the turmoil's provenance - Carter and Clinton-era social-engineering dictums that upended safe-lending practices in favor of higher minority home ownership - will forever be outlawed? How do we know taxpayers won't be asked to finance another $700 billion bailout in 10 years? What has Congress learned from its past mistakes?

8) After Enron's collapse, former CEO Jeffrey Skilling, then-CEO Ken Lay, and then-CFO Andrew Fastow, were called to testify before Congress. According to the Business and Media Institute, Fannie's and Freddie's overstated earnings were 19 times larger than Enron's fake numbers. So when can we expect Congress to call Jim Johnson, Franklin Raines, Barney Frank, Chris Dodd, and the rest of Fannie's and Freddie's enablers to testify before Congress?

At the end of the day, we're not being asked to bailout Wall St. so much as we are the Democratic Party. For $700 billion, answers to the questions above are the least Congress can do in return.

---

Yeah, I can be bought....

So, after my last post -- I sent a letter (hard copy and email) to AirTran explaining what happened to us on our flight home (and that it made me cry) and I got a really quick and thorough (email, home phone & cell phone) response.

I got a very sincere apology..... an explanation of the policy -- a promise of an internal investigation and three vouchers.

I know it's sad -- but, these things happen -- people make mistakes, so I'll use the vouchers :)

Did I forget to tell you, AirTran made me cry

So, I debated as to whether or not I should post about this.... back and forth, back and forth.... and I decided not to, but then I really wanted to -- so, I'm going to just give you the highlights.

The Big Dubya and I took the three kids to Disney on Friday, August 29th. My sister (Aunt P) her husband (Mr Tall Guy), my brother (uncle RoRo), and my mother (Granny) met us down there on August 30th. We had an amazing time and found out on our first night that superstar Olympian Michael Phelps was staying at our resort. I had hoped that he'd stick around and teach the 'lil Dubyette to swim or at least teach her and her brother to stop drinking the pool water.... but to no avail.

Anyway, the Big Dubya was running a fancy-schmancy golf tournament in early September and couldn't afford to spend the whole week with us, so he went home early -- as did RoRo and Granny. This left me, Aunt P, Mr Tall Guy and the three kiddies. We had a good time, but then... all good things must come to an end and so, it was time to go home. Aunt P and Mr Tall Guy were flying to Boston..... me? oh, me and the kids were flying back to White Plains -- so, yes -- I was flying with the three kids on my own (and I thought a trip to the mall was brave!)

We managed to get through airport security just fine -- we had a picnic at the gate.... the 'lil Dubya (3) and the 'lil Dubyette (21 mos) munched on cheez-its while I nursed baby Dubya (12 weeks). We boarded the plane, got into our seats and all was good in the world.... until a flight attendant yelled at me and I lost my shit. Long story short, I'd been given poor information by their phone people and she was telling me that I'd either have to let another passenger hold my baby or I'd have to get off the plane.

I cried

I wasn't even embarrassed about it -- I cried.

I cried and cried... I'd had enough.



I'd been brave -- the Big Dubya leaving me in Orlando with three small kids on my own didn't make me cry.... going through security with three kids on my own didn't make me cry.... getting on the plane didn't make me cry.



This bitch flight attendant telling me to give one of my babies to a stranger to hold during take-off and landing.... yep, that made me cry. And, although they all looked like lovely people, I was not giving any of my babies to a stranger to hold -- regardless of how long it would be for. And getting off the plane made no sense.... I live in Connecticut.

Other passengers were very kind.

She was just trying to do her job

She got her superior and it all worked out fine -- but yeah, AirTran made me cry



The Big Dubya was pissed and Twittered about it (is that a word? Twittered?) -- I think he was hoping for some sort of apology -- but instead, he just got comments from other people who hate AirTran.

I'm going to have to script a letter..... stay tuned.

You want to be what?

Yeah, so we made the mistake of asking the 'lil Dubya what he wants to be for Halloween..... he wants to be "Manny the elephant" from Ice Age......

First of all 'lil dude, Manny's not an elephant -- he's a really moody wooly mammoth and second.... huh? where the hell does one find THAT costume?

This country..... build 'em up to knock them down

Look, I'm a conservative..... disagree with me, or even hate me if you want to.... whateveah!



But, seriously...... whether you support Governor Palin or not, why is it that the media can get away with questioning her ability to run for Vice President and still care for her children?


If we are doing our job as the parent of a little girl, we should be raising her to believe she can do anything, she can have it all...... and then when she does..... are we going to tell her that she can't do both well -- and if she chooses a high-powered, demanding career -- then she's a neglectful parent?

Barrack Obama's been on the campaign trail for the better part of two years -- yet no one has accused him of neglecting his children. In fact, the only person I've heard mention the fact that he's away from his children is his wife, and she's refreshingly candid about the toll the campaign has taken on their family. The same could be said for Bill Clinton (Chelsea was what 11? maybe 12? when he was elected to his first term?) -- John Edwards has young children -- I'm sure there are candidates..... in both parties with young children, but the guys just don't get this kind of crap.


My parents raised me to believe I could accomplish whatever I wanted..... they never told me that I'd have to choose.... family or career just because I'm a girl -- men don't have to.

At this point in my life, I wouldn't pursue a job that requires a lot of travel -- but that's not because we couldn't figure out a way to make it work -- it's because I don't want to. If Governor Palin and her husband can figure out a way to make this work -- more power to them.

Let's talk about stuff that matters

Living the Rock Star Life

After tailgating with my rock star brother, the Big Dubya and I sat in the front row at the Patriots game on Friday night.... who cares that the game totally sucked, I was in the front row!!!! This is Pat the Patriot telling us that we f'ing ROCK for being in the front row

not bad quality photo from my little cell phone

and this is a picture of when I decided to rest my drunk & weary foot on the railing... yes, that's my foot on the front row's railing

So, as if that wasn't good enough..... as if I hadn't drank enough...... we went to see Neil Diamond rock historic Fenway Park. Yes, I heard the man sing Sweet Caroline in the house that Ruth, Williams, Yaz (you pick) built. So okay, we weren't in the front row...... but I saw a sequin-clad speck on the stage that Kara assured me was him. He sounded awesome.....

It was probably the beer taking over, but just to give you a flavor for the evening.....

I decided to go toe-to-toe with some poorly dressed, middle aged soccer moms that Kara tossed some ice at.... not sure what was funnier..... their claims that cold water was going to poke their eyes out, or their threats to call the fashion police on us.... but we laughed all the way back to the bar ('cuz we hadn't drank enough)

My 28 year old brother tried to convince some divorcees on the T that he was 45 and just looked young for his age -- he also told them that they looked like $1,000,000.... I thought he was leaving with some digits. Later in the evening, he picked up some girls after dropping a drink on them and then he became pen pals with some other girls in town on business from Minnesota.... we weren't even on the sidewalk when this silly girl was sending him text messages.

Kara had the good sense to catch the last train home. The Big Dubya, my brother & I decided that we were too cool for that and kept drinking. Then, after storming into a high end restaurant like the Clampetts to use the bathroom, we took a $50 cab ride back to my parents house -- my brother wasn't happy with the cab driver who got really annoyed when he took over control of the radio. The Big Dubya and my mother put me to bed where I proceeded to puke into a bucket in my childhood bedroom.

Yes, I do realize that I need to grow up...... I'm somebody's mother for christ sake.

I paid the price yesterday when we had to drive back to CT from Boston..... no amount of Dunkin' Donuts, McDonald's or D'Angelos would help (yes, I really did try it all). It was a long, long, long ass drive...... and the 'lil Dubyette puked all over car.

C'mon kids.... let's go to the GOP BBQ

Yeah, I know..... I can feel Arwen & Kara cringe from here -- don't worry girls.... we formed a circle, held hands and prayed for you and your tree hugging friends.... just kidding....

I went to two places yesterday that made me incredibly grateful.

Although delivering the baby usually resolves pre-eclampsia, I'm still battling high blood pressure 11 weeks later, so I've been seeing a nephrologist to see if we can get it under control.....

I'm not sure if you've ever been in the waiting room of a nephrologist's office, but...... it's all old people.... I mean really old people -- and then there's me..... a young (c'mon humor me) mother of three very small children...... who's in otherwise perfect health.

Well, you should see these elderly people light up when they see the baby -- they can't wait to tell you about their children (who, in many cases, have children & grandchildren of their own by now) -- as much as I gripe about having to go..... bringing these people this small amount of joy makes it worth the trip.... and they are so interested in everything I say -- they hang on every word.

Then.... last night -- we did... the Big Dubya & I packed up the kiddies and took them to the GOP Barbecue -- it was fun. The food was terrific (I didn't have to cook) -- we got to hang out with our elected representatives and again, it was almost all old people. When we got home, we both were amazed at how many people had stopped us to tell us what a beautiful family we have -- and that we should enjoy every minute because it all goes by way too fast.

They were right -- we get so caught up in the chaos and mayhem that accompanies three small children, two careers, a house, a marriage, friends...... that we forget how amazing our little family is and how fortunate we are to have it.

Tell me what you see

Yeah, so .... I fell down the stairs yesterday ... Ouch

Thank God we weren't seriously hurt -- yes, I say we because I was carrying the 'lillest Dubya when I tripped over that damn dinosaur.

I somehow managed to tuck him close to my chest and hit every other surface of my body against every hard-wood-floored-step. On the bright side he didn't hit anything and kind of enjoyed the ride -- and I can now conduct an entire rorschach test using only the bruises on my body.... the darkest, and the one generating the most giggles from the Big Dubya, would be the one on my butt..... humans aren't supposed to be THAT color.

Anywho..... I finally joined facebook -- I hate it.... not smart enough to use it.... people keep sending me requests to play duck, duck, goose.... a game I hated before they figured out how to make it virtual.

It is nice because I can get in touch with cousins that I have living in other parts of the world.... but it's also like an address book full of the numbers I know by heart -- most of the people I'm "friends" with are people that I talk to all the time anyway.

We'll see how it goes.....

I hate her

I'm not even sure why I hate her, but I hate her.

I've never seen her show..... I just hate her. I cringe when I see her -- I won't even try Huggies pull-ups because they have her on them.....

What is my problem?

I got pee pee on my toe

As I sat at my computer trying to figure out facebook.... a little voice yelled out from the bathroom

'lil Dubya: Mammy, I got pee pee on my toe

Of course I got up and went in there --

Mrs Big Dubya: What happened?

'lil Dubya: I got pee pee on my toe he bends over and points to his toe right there

Mrs Big Dubya: How'd that happen?

'lil Dubya: I don't know as he tries to use a baby wipe to clean up a puddle next to the toilet

Mrs Big Dubya: Are your pants wet?

'lil Dubya: Nope, just my toe

Mrs Big Dubya: Were you not paying attention and you missed the toilet?

'lil Dubya: Yeah, I think so

Mrs Big Dubya: Let's get a bigger towel

'lil Dubya: okay -- thanks Mammy

Happy Friday

Kohl's Cash

So, from time to time Kohl's offers Kohl's Cash..... you spend $50 and they give you a coupon for $10 to use during a 3 or 4 day period in the future.

I've gotten them a few times.... and then been all pissed off when I came across them in my purse the day it was going to expire..... do I drop everything and run to Kohl's and buy things I don't need and can't afford because I have a $10 coupon? or do I just throw away $10?

Anyway, I'm at Kohl's returning something the other day and the customer service girl answers the phone -- apparently the woman on the other end had Kohl's cash that was expiring that day and she wasn't going to be able to make it in --

Do you know what the customer service person told her?

That's fine -- just come in by the end of the week and tell the manager on duty that I (Val) said it was okay -- and we'll honor it!

Now that my friends is customer service!

Swinging

My kids love the swing..... when the 'lil Dubya was colicky, it was the only thing that offered us any type of relief -- the 'lil Dubyette loved it too -- it was like baby-ambien without the binges -- I could put her in the swing and it would all but guarantee an hour or two of blissful peace and quiet.

Imagine my shock and dismay when I put the 'lillest Dubya in the swing and it swung no more. I'm still not clear on why it wouldn't swing, but...... it wouldn't -- new batteries, taking it apart -- nothing worked.

It's pretty well documented that this is the last of the Dubyas...... so, buying a new swing makes no sense. It's not that I'm a cheapskate, but swings are in the hundred-dollar neighborhood and with this being my last baby and all (unless we win Powerball, I may get to have 1 more if we win Powerball) ..... I just can't justify spending the money. I considered hitting a consignment shop to see if I could get one second-hand -- but, all the ones I saw were either filthy or on the rickety side -- so I decided to email Fisher-Price and see if they could suggest a way to fix my swing.

Fisher-Price customer service doesn't have email!

Ugh, I didn't want to call because...... they'd probably expect me to know all the technical jargon -- and I'd be the bimbo saying "Uhm yeah, like it doesn't swing"

But, did you know..... you can order individual replacement parts? For $25 I was able to buy the replacement motor.... it arrived today..... and now the 'lillest man swings!

He's like a rock star or a movie star

The Big Dubya just got off the phone with a blog-star........

If I weren't so tired from having three children under 38 months (and a little tipsy from splitting this bottle of wine), I think I'd swoon!

I remember 3+ years ago.... Kara sent us the link to his blog and that of some crazy Trixie person who recorded every feeding, diaper change and graphed it all...... and you thought I was a spreadsheet geek!

He and his bride were expecting their baby -- a couple of months before us and I hung on every post.... I was so excited the day they delivered and so completely grossed out by stories of the haz-mat bag....

And now here we are 3 years later and he was just on our phone line...... can you believe it??? I may never wash our phone again

I don't know what to do with myself...

SHHHHHHHHHH
For the first time every, all three of them are asleep.....
I don't know what to do

Six Random Things

Nobody asked, but...... I read Crazy's and thought it would be fun

1. I survived 12 years of Catholic school, 4 of which were all girls.

2. I worked at McDonald's when I was in high school -- I actually won a college scholarship from them.

3. I was fired from McDonald's because I called in sick on the 4th of July.... I wanted to go to a party because a cute boy would be there -- it was worth it, I kissed the boy.

4. I got a tattoo to commemorate my 21st birthday -- am thinking of getting another one, but I'm not sure where.

5. I hate exercise -- I have to bribe myself to do it..... right now I'm not letting myself watch General Hospital unless I'm on the treadmill..... GH kinda sucks these days, I'm going to need a new show soon.

6. I'm a total sucker for infomercials.... right now I'm totally on board with getting this one, this one and I really, really want this one. I'm convinced that ordering these would make me smokin' hot..... but, we're trying to cut back on spending, so..... I'll remain frumpy and fat with bad hair.

I won't "tag" people, but would love to read some random things about you guys

It requires more than just a packie run, or does it?

So, my braver half decided it would be a good idea to invite another blogger when we planned a visit from the Buffaloes.

Now, on multiple occasions I've threatened to invite some bloggers who live locally over for drinks or a cook-out but, despite the fact that they seem really cool, I chicken out -- there's something really nice about being anonymous.... as soon as you know you've got readers who know you, know your husband, know your kids, your friends, your family.... a certain amount of self-censorship comes into play. I can complain about my friends' kids being fresh or about hating my friend's husband here because I know most of my friends don't know this blog exists and so.... I can vent freely.... as soon as they discover it, the honesty begins to get chipped away..... and along with it goes some of the joy.... some of the liberating feeling that comes with getting it all off my chest.

Anyway, the Big Dubya's a fun guy..... he is, but -- he's a guy. He thinks that inviting people over requires sweeping the kitchen and making a packie run to pick up some fancy beer. For the most part, that's the way I was pre-kids. But now, I stress about having enough clean sheets, towels -- enough food, does this child eat this? will this child drink that? Of course the guys in our group of friends will just look at me and go..... "eat? you think she'll need to eat? I swear she ate yesterday."

The Buffaloes have been here many, many times -- they are dream house guests.... I don't stress about their visits anymore because I know they don't care if I swept under the couch and if I gave her the sheets, Kara would gladly make her own bed.... hell, she regularly cooks everybody's dinner..... half the time she even brings the food.... and Cliff? Cliff mans the bar (don't get excited, that's just fancy talk for counter top next to the beer fridge in our basement) he mixes drinks, fetches beer and chops the veggies for whatever Kara's cooking us for dinner.... he's even served as co-pilot on the grill.

But, this time..... we were having new people -- and, it was a Dad (Mom was out of town) and his three year-old..... this could have disaster written all over it.

Honestly, everything went just fine -- like the Big Dubya and Cliff, Tony was fairly in tune with what his daughter liked/disliked and all the kids got along famously -- they were amazingly well-behaved considering their ages and lack of naps. And, I think our house was actually cleaner when everybody left than it was when they arrived..... I may be hosting one of these gatherings monthly from now on..... keep this place tidied up.

Attention Parents of Toddlers: Make friends with the parents of an 8 year old girl..... and then invite them to everything... it's the cheapest most attentive babysitter you'll ever find!

I'm so yesterday

Facebook ...... Linked In ....... Twitter

Let's be honest.... I've never been "cutting edge." I started this blog because the Big Dubya started his and it looked like fun. I liked reading his thoughts on impending parenthood.... and then, after the 'lil man arrived, his take on the parental challenges we were facing together.

Other friends joined the blogsphere and I began reading other parents' blogs.... it's been a mostly positive experience and I've even expanded my blogging to other interests beyond parenthood.

But..... lately, I'm feeling like a technological fossil

Twitter? what's Twitter? The Big Dubya described it as informal IM'ing..... huh? I don't get it.

I recently emailed hubby's sister-in-law and asked for some pictures of their new baby.... she responded -- they are on Facebook..... huh? what's Facebook? The Big Dubya described it as something like MySpace..... huh? What's MySpace? To me, MySpace is that thing that's always on the news -- being linked to kids getting molested or kidnapped.... doesn't sound that safe.

Aunt P sent me an invitation to LinkedIn -- I know it's great for professional networking, but I'm hesitant.

I'm hesitant on all of these.... I like the anonymity of the internet -- I don't want people to be able to find me. Correction.... there are some people that I don't want to be able to find me and I don't want to risk having some sick pervs looking at pictures of my kids.

Am I a paranoid nutjob?

I can't believe I'm going to say it.... sometimes I miss diapers

Having kids that are potty trained is awesome.

There's no doubt about it, after a while.... diapers are just gross -- they eat what we eat.... need I say more?

However, public bathrooms suck. Case in point -- the 'lil man had to go to the potty the other day while we were at the Mystic Aquarium. The Big Dubya was off getting us lunch and I was at a table with the three kids. Anyone who has a three-year old knows that when he says he has to go pee -- it means he has to go pee now.... right now.... not 10 minutes from now.... now.

I tried to flag down the Big Dubya, but to no avail.

I surveyed the situation -- three year old who has to be pee, 19 month old who is cranky and hungry, 4 week old asleep in the Bjorn strapped to my chest.

Okay, I grab the two "big" kids by the hand and we make a dash for the family restroom....... which is full...... and has another family waiting.

We go into the ladies room -- handicapped stall is out of order (of course it is) so, the four of us jam ourselves into a regular stall.

'lil man is too short to reach the toilet (which is filthy) and needs to be picked up to reach.

Are you getting a good visual here? I've got baby strapped to my chest in a Bjorn, I'm holding 'lil man a few inches off the ground so he can pee into the filthy public toilet all the while I'm begging the 'lil lady not to touch anything.

Yes, on that particular day..... I missed diapers.

So, I still think it would be easier to just get pregnant again....

Yeah, I don't care what you say -- there's nothing harder than losing the last few pounds of baby weight.... and it gets progressively harder with each pregnancy.

I'm getting there..... slowly, but surely, I'm getting there.

I'm fortunate in that I don't gain a lot of weight when I'm pregnant -- so the majority of it just falls off once I deliver, but..... it's those last few pounds that tend to linger.

When we were trying to get pregnant the first time, the doctor recommended I put on 5-7lbs -- saying that sometimes a few pounds helps smaller women get pregnant. Sure enough.... I put on a few pounds and success -- 10 months later we had the 'lil Dubya.

I never fully lost those few extra after the 'lil man was born -- but that was okay because I lost the rest of the weight and I wanted to get pregnant again anyway -- sure enough..... success.

After the 'lil lady came along I lost all the weight except, of course, those few extra pounds. I really wanted another baby and sure enough once I convinced the Big Dubya that number three was a good idea -- we got pregnant easily again.

Well..... as sad as I am to say it -- the 'lillest man is the last of the 'lil Dubya/Dubyettes and with that declaration made..... I have to face the music and lose the pregnancy weight AND I've got to figure out a way to get rid of the "conception" pounds too.

I still think it would be easier to get pregnant again

Evolution of a Diaper Bag

Yeah, I kinda got a kick out of my supermarket post (1st baby v/s 2nd baby v/s 3rd baby), so I thought I'd continue the theme with the evolution of the diaper bag.


With my son (a.k.a. 1st baby or "'lil Dubya"), I had a diaper bag that weighed a ton -- it had EVERYTHING in it -- at least two outfits, enough diapers for 2 days... ya know, just in case we got stranded somewhere... wipes, healthy snacks for me, the Big Dubya and the 'lil man -- two full changes of clothes, band aids, cold medicine, Tylenol, gas drops, a changing pad, several blankets, several burp clothes, tons of plastic bags, 5 or 6 back-up pacifiers, a stain stick, orajel swabs, bottled water......


With my daughter (a.k.a. 2nd baby or "'lil Dubyette"), I had to streamline the diaper bag -- it was too heavy and bulky and I never used half the crap in it. So, we got rid of a lot of the stuff.... switched to a smaller bag -- still had the diapers and wipes, but only enough for the outing and maybe a few spares. It still had some snacks, but not all the pharmaceuticals or outfits.


With my 'liller son (a.k.a. 3rd baby or "'liller Dubya"), there is still a diaper bag -- but, now, it's called my purse -- there's one diaper in each size (there are a couple of floating around the car if we get really stuck) -- a small package of wipes, a bottle of water (for me!) a couple of ziplocks and maybe a half eaten bag of melted M&Ms from the last time I had to bribe someone to do what they were told, a bunch of broken crayons from whatever restaurant we ate at last and a few torn pages from a coloring book.

My girl card will probably get revoked, but....

I'm afraid of Sephora.

I know, I know..... everyone loves, loves, loves Sephora, how could it scare me?

I have friends who spend hours and hours perusing Sephora.... sampling all of the various "products" and could each of them easily spend a week's pay and still leave things behind.

Me?

I darken the door and get intimidated. There's so much in there -- where do you start? And all of those people..... the workers, the customers....even the guys..... they all know what to do with all of that stuff.... they know the brands, the colors

Me?

Lip liner.... a little gloss..... a touch of pressed powder if I'm looking blotchy or uneven and that's it -- I'm out the door.

What do I do? Do they offer classes? Should I hire a tutor?

1st baby v/s 2nd baby v/s 3rd baby.....

Given:

You and your newborn are in the supermarket -- you are about halfway done with your shopping and the baby has a total and complete meltdown. You just fed him before you left the house, so he shouldn't be hungry.....

1st baby:

You stop shopping, you try to console the baby, when that fails you leave your half full cart in the aisle and scurry from the store in tears -- you nurse the baby in the car until he/she calms down and you go home with no groceries.... husband will understand another night of Domino's Pizza.

2nd baby:

You try to console the baby while you shop -- when you realize this is not working you buy what you've collected so far -- you nurse the baby in the car until he/she calms down and you go home with half of what you went to the market for.... you'll figure out some sort of dinner with what you managed to get.

3rd baby:

You try to console the baby while you shop -- when you realize this is not working you pick up the pace and finish your shopping swiftly. When you get out to the car you do a quick analysis and determine that you live close enough that you can wait 'til you get home to nurse him/her -- he/she just ate before you left....so, it's probably just gas anyway.

I'm thinking that if there were a 4th baby, you'd probably let the deli attendant nurse him/her for you so that you could shop in peace.

Whatchya been doin?

Yeah, here we are..... on the cusp of the 4th of July weekend and the citizenry is preparing to frolic in the sun, barbecue and imbibe.....

The Dubyas are staying home

What have you been doing? you might find yourself asking --

Well, I've been reading and drinking.... not necessarily simultaneously, although.... that could be fun, but anywho -- if you are interested in joining me, please don't be shy -- let us know!

When refrigerators attack

When I was pregnant (let's be honest, when in the past 4 years have I not been pregnant???) the Big Dubya picked up some O'Doul's for me so that I could join him in ringing in the new year, toasting the world series, drowning our sorrows over the super bowl...... or for some celebration or other occasion.

I opened the fridge this afternoon and green glass came flying out. I noticed a pool of liquid on the shelf and so I began removing items until I found the culprit. I am no longer pregnant and apparently our refrigerator has decided to evict the faux beer.... and quite violently I might add.

Overheard at the Dubya House

Mr Big Dubya: Honey, I think I broke a toe
Mrs Big Dubya: That sucks.... I don't think there's anything you can do for a broken toe.... unless it's the big toe... they can do something for that.
Mr Big Dubya: Yeah, you are right -- there's nothing they can do for a broken toe
Mrs Big Dubya: Which toe is it?
Mr Big Dubya: The little piggy that had roast beef
Mrs Big Dubya: There really is something wrong with you
Mr Big Dubya: Yeah, I know

Do you ever read a blog post and....

breath a huge sigh of relief?

I read Chicky's post today..... and all I have to say is HALLELUJAH!!!!, I'm not alone!

Sometimes I lose my patience, like when I finally get the 'lillest man to snooze and his brother and sister decide to have a shrieking contest right next to his head -- or when they decide to find a Sharpie while the 'lillest man is using my breast as a chew toy.

The 'lillest man is three weeks old today -- WOW, that went by fast..... and yes, I'm still not back into my pre-pregnancy jeans and yes, I still haven't totally figured out how to manage 3 kids when I'm home alone..... (for those keeping track, 3 is a lot more than 2 + 1), but each day brings small victories... defeats too, but... that's to be expected, right?

Thanks Chicky.... your honesty is very much appreciated.

It's two little letters, what's the big deal

I'm not sure why it bothers me so much....

In the past few weeks, but even more so since we brought home the littlest Dubya, the 'lil Dubya seems to be maturing right before my very eyes. He's gone from using the potty now and then to using it all the time and refusing to wear anything but big-boy-underpants.

He no longer bullies his sister, instead he reprimands her when she's being "bold" and he rushes to offer comfort to his little brother when he cries.......

I know that this is a logical right-of-passage -- and it's most certainly a more desirable reaction to the new baby than the regression we are experiencing with the 'lil Dubyette.....

But, he's stopped calling me Mommy..... now he calls me Mom.... and even though it's only different by two letters..... that hurts a little.

On this day in Dubya history

Note: There was supposed to be a post yesterday (June 2nd), but...... fate intervened......

On June 2nd 2005, the 'lil Dubya gave me the greatest of gifts -- he was born and made me a Mommy. It was a chaotic day, and a scary day -- but it'll always be remembered as one of the greatest days of my life.

On June 2nd 2008, the 'lillest Dubya and I were supposed to be released from the hospital so that we could go home and celebrate the 'lil Dubya's third birthday -- (yes, "supposed to be" is in italics for dramatic effect)

But, the docs decided to keep us one more day and instead of getting to sing "Happy Birthday" around a Dairy Queen ice cream cake at home -- the 'lil man came to the hospital and we had a date in the maternity ward.

He was so grown up -- the Big Dubya took charge of the 'lillest man while the birthday boy and I shared my hospital dinner and he told me all about his day.

He posed for pictures with his new baby brother and was ever so gentle when he tickled his toes and played with his tiny fingers.....I brought him around and introduced him to all the nurses who were with me that wild night three years ago -- he was so polite..... thanking each one who wished him a happy birthday. I can't imagine being more proud of him.

Happy Birthday 'lil man -- we'll have that cake tonight, I promise!

Worth every second of discomfort and waiting

Not sure how this post will look, as it is being crafted via Blackberry, but the newest Dubya has arrived and he is perfect.

At 8lbs 8oz and 21 inches, I now understand why he was able to get up under my ribs and make me pee simultaneously.

The Big Dubya's got a photo up on his site - I'm not sure I can figure out how to link to it from here...

Anyway, thanks for all the support

Mother Nature? Mother Fuc%ing Bitch is more like it

Yeah, so some random thoughts on the end of pregnancy......

I've decided that I'm not leaving the house again until it's time to go to the hospital..... I just don't like being laughed at..... and then pitied.

Yes, I know I look ridiculous...... all my weight has shifted forward and is concentrated on the front of my body -- I'm a big belly with legs. But, do people really have to look at me like I'm an over-ripe piece of fruit.... ready to fall off the tree at any moment? I'm serious, people see me and they laugh out loud - they don't even try to hide it..... sometimes I get the sympathetic head tilt afterward -- but that doesn't erase the emotional scars all that laughter is leaving on me... anybody know a good therapist?

We are starting to make some name progress -- the Big Dubya was emailing me some candidates this morning and I was blackberrying him back from BJs...... yes, this is how we are naming our child..... Dubya's at work and I'm in the frozen food section of BJs.

Still no baby, but we did have a false alarm yesterday -- but after a few hours, I was sent home to wait a little longer -- they did promise that it won't be long now though....

And, lastly....... to be filed under the "reaction every wife dreams of":

Mrs Big Dubya: Honey ,I think I might be leaking amniotic fluid
Mr Big Dubya: That doesn't sound good -- what's it mean?
Mrs Big Dubya: According to the internet, it means labor is imminent
Mr Big Dubya: What does imminent mean?
Mrs Big Dubya: Oh, it could be hours..... or days
Mr Big Dubya: So, I've got time to go golf 9 holes, right?
Mrs Big Dubya: Yeah, go ahead

And, so we wait........

Think you could help me out and have the baby today?

Yeah, so..... as if I needed incentive, my brother called me on Friday


RoRo: Hey sis, had the baby yet?
Mrs Big Dubya: Nope, still waiting
RoRo: Think you could take care of that today? It would really help me out
Mrs Big Dubya: Yeah, I really wish I could...... but..... it's kind of out of my hands -- why, what's so special about today?
RoRo: Oh, I went to the Celtics last night and got all banged up -- really need an excuse to blow off this bachelor party tonight -- a baby would do the job nicely
Mrs Big Dubya: Yeah...... wish I could help you out dude, really -- anything I can do to help your social calendar.

Anyway, 8:40pm on Monday night..... still no baby

You know you are really largely pregnant when....

Some random woman in Marshall's says "ouch" when she sees you and then follows it up with a chuckle and an "I'm sorry"

For those keeping track..... this is officially the most pregnant I've ever been..... I know I'm still not due (or overdue) but when your first baby is 6 weeks early and your second is 3 weeks early.... you just assume.... you know in your gut..... that your third will also be early......

Rest assured -- the newborn clothes have been laundered (in Dreft of course), the bassinet has been washed and made up, now it's just waiting for it's future occupant, the car seat has also been washed and is just waiting for the Big Dubya to install it.

I went through boxes of the 'lil Dubya & 'lil Dubyette's baby things this morning -- as I went through the first box of the 'lil man's things..... I got all choked up and thought..... gee, I hope it's a boy so that we can use all these again. Then I went through the 'lil lady's things and thought..... gee, I can't imagine not seeing another baby wear these.... I hope it's a girl.

In honesty, I'll be happy with whatever we have -- and I've got clothes for either occasion.

We still have no name, but..... I'm sure that'll come eventually, right?

Do you think....

Do you think the baby's refusing to be born because we still have no name selected?

I guess even voo-doo practicing witch doctors are wrong sometimes

So, no baby yesterday..... despite the prediction made on Friday.

It did give me a kick in the butt and now the bassinet, bedding, car seat pad, swing pad and baby seat pad have all been washed. Granted, they were put away clean (and not that very long ago) -- but I like to give them a good freshening up just to be sure.

And so now we wait......

A, E, I, O, U and sometimes Y

'Lil Dubyette: (upon examining her new Princess Disney sneakers) -- Ariel?
Mr Big Dubya: No sweetie these ones don't have Ariel, they are Princess sneakers...... honey, is
Ariel considered a princess?
Mrs Big Dubya: Sometimes they group her with the princesses..... sure.
Mr Big Dubya: So, she's kinda like Y
Mrs Big Dubya: (cracking up) yeah, just like Y

PS -- Nope, no baby yet

Just another manic...... Friday?

Back in March it seems that I left my flip flops in Florida..... so, I figured I'd run to Kohl's this morning and grab a new pair -- thinking that if (when) I go to the hospital, they'd be a little more practical than slippers.....

The 'lil lady was a perfect princess -- the 'lil man.... a perfect terror. He took off in the store and then threw himself to the floor in a full blown tantrum. Needless to say, we left the store before I was able to do any of my shopping. I must have been a site..... 9 months pregnant carrying a writhing toddler while pushing an embarrassed looking smaller toddler in a carriage.

Later, at the toddler gym -- both children's asses exploded with diarrhea and I decided that yes, this was going to be my day -- despite having a million and one things to do, I haven't left the house since.

While we were at the gym, a woman who I'll swear could moonlight as a voodoo practicing witchdoctor told me that I'd deliver on Sunday -- from her lips.....

I'll keep you posted :)

Are you kidding me? #18?

First, my update.....

I'm feeling much, much better -- although the baby is still feeling really huge, and when he/she moves it still feels like my internal organs are being ground into a very fine dust...... the baby has dropped a bit and I can breath again (most of the time) -- so that makes it all so much more bearable. BP is still elevated, but doesn't seem to be getting worse. Still no names...... but I digress.

Now, my post..... or really just my "Have you heard about this whack-job?" she and her husband just announced that they are expecting #18...... EIGHTEEN children!!!

Okay, in the interest of full disclosure (sorry honey, cover your eyes/ears) I get sad when I think about the fact that this is my last baby. I love babies and love the idea of a large family -- I also love most of pregnancy -- not the end so much, but the rest of it..... it's pretty cool. But, I also recognize that in this day-and-age..... three kids is a pretty big family and as much as I would love to think about a number four -- three is a really good number for us -- maybe not for everyone, but for us -- three is a great place to stop and count our blessings -- be thankful and get on with the next phase of our life -- the phase that doesn't involve pregnancy.

So, although I'm sure I'll have the occasional moment of weakness -- I can confidently say -- this is IT for us. So, I lie on the couch every night after the other two are in bed and I feel/watch this 'lil (or not-so-lil) one roll around and stretch and do all the things that cause me pain and discomfort and I just marvel at it all.... I find it hard to believe that it'll all be over in a few weeks.... so I just want to relish the miracle that it is (even when it causes me to use really foul language).

That being said...... this woman is about to deliver an 18th child..... 18 people, 18!

Gush!

My first child was delivered early -- my second child was also delivered early.

After yesterday's appointment -- it appears that there is actually a chance that this one may go to term....... this would normally be good news -- and of course, it is good news..... although, I'm really ready to be done.

It has, however, generated an unreasonable level of anxiety in me. See, although I have two children....... I've never done labor..... never had my water break, never had any "real" contractions....... haven't been dilated, haven't been effaced...... lightening? lightening? what's that?

So, now I'm totally convinced my water is going to break...... which from what I read on the internet only happens in advance of actual labor 15% of the time -- but yeah, I'm convinced that it's going to happen to me... and that it's going to happen any minute.

I'm not sure why I think this.... it could be that this baby has been sitting lower than my other two and has for quite some time now, it could be because this baby seems to be HUGE or maybe it's because there is just an absurd amount of pressure whenever the baby moves which is ALL THE TIME.

The Big Dubya finds this paranoia amusing...... he won't be laughing when it happens.

'lil Dubya (in a very excited voice): Look at this!
Mrs Big Dubya: What?
'lil Dubya (the excitment in his voice builds): Look at this!
Mrs Big Dubya: Buddy, I still don't see anything
'lil Dubya (more excitement): Look! on the floor!
Mrs Big Dubya: What? I don't see anything
'lil Dubya: pee pee
Mrs Big Dubya: Oh, you peed on the carpet
'lil Dubya: uh-huh
Mrs Big Dubya: Okay, I'll clean it up
'lil Dubya: Thank you Mummy

And this is my Friday.....

Miscellaneous

Let's see..... yes, I'm still pregnant -- and all of my weight is shifting forward.

Seriously -- I used to be kind of "pregnant all over" -- not anymore -- now I look like I've got a basketball ( a full-size basketball, not one of the child or women size -- no official NBA size) tucked under my shirt.

It is also as hard as a rock (the Big Dubya joked that it gives new meaning to "abs of steel"), I can't get any pants up over it and every time the baby moves it feels like my internal organs are disintegrating..... lovely.

I now understand what women mean when they say they can't get comfortable at night -- I never had this problem with the first two, but this one..... this one doesn't like any position I assume and if I am lucky enough to get somewhat comfortable..... it doesn't last long because I'll inevitably have to get up to pee...... awesome!

My legs are good and swollen...... oh well, that happens.

My blood pressure is still elevated, but seems to have stabilized somewhat..... I go to the doctor this afternoon, we'll see what they have to say.... there was some talk of perhaps scheduling my delivery at today's appointment, but..... I'm not sure that'll happen.

I was up watching Leno the other night..... did you know that Helen Hunt's 4-year old daughter has never watched television? never watched a movie? I'm all for limiting television/movie viewing, but this seemed a little extreme. I'm still not sure if I'm impressed or if I think she's a total nutcase....... maybe both. Will this kid be really socially awkward? or what?

The 'lil Dubya seems to have recommitted to potty training -- which is good, except he uses it to avoid the things he doesn't want to do. In the middle of dinner if he doesn't want to eat anymore he announces he wants to use the potty -- 'cause he knows it'll get him away from the table.

The 'lil Duybette seems to have a new hobby..... hair puling. Yes, she likes to pull the hair of her brother, her classmates..... just about anybody. This is no gentle pulling either, she likes to grab a hold of hair and shake the other child's head..... she ends up with a fistful of hair and a crying child. UGH!

Still no baby names..... but now people are telling me that we are having a boy (something to do with the shape the basketball has taken on) -- so, my girl theory may be out the window -- I suppose we'll know soon enough.

Apparently, I'm not alone in the baby-name-struggle.

Crazy friends and Chicky friends are grappling with this too.......

I grew up with THE most common name -- let's just say, that there were 100 girls in my class (all girls school, natch) and there were 13 of us..... yes 13 girls with the same freakin' name -- 5 in my homeroom alone.

I refuse to do that to a kid.

On the other hand, I don't want his/her name to be so obscure that nobody's ever heard of it or that it can't be pronounced by the teacher on the first day of school each year.

Why is it so hard -- a name that is pronounceable, spellable -- yet, not common or ordinary. Pressure's on kids..... HELP!!!

Happy Birthday Big Guy!

Prince/Princess Consuela Bananahammock??

So, I'm back at work......

After the fire drill last week, I took a few days to "work from home" and got my blood pressure back to normal..... well, back to just merely elevated .... and, well here we are..... back at work. I'm in week 36 now, if we have to deliver -- we can, but a couple more weeks would be better -- so..... now we wait.

This baby is sitting much lower than my other two and is very active.... so I constantly feel like my water is going to break..... although, that's never happened to me before so I'm not really sure why I think that or what it would feel like if it were to happen..... does it hurt?

I had a mini-freak out on Thursday morning -- I was supposed to go to the doctor at 9:00 but, the doctor had a delivery so I got bumped to 1:30. I decided to take the opportunity to go to Target and pick up a few little things...... while I was there I was overcome by the thought that I haven't done anything for this baby yet. With the first you do EVERYTHING ahead of time.... and then re-do it just to be sure..... with the second, you do a few things... but you know that it's okay if every article of clothing isn't boiled prior to delivery. With the third? You are so busy with the first two that you do nothing. So, I went to the baby section to see if I needed to pick up anything and I saw newborn diapers were on sale..... so I grabbed some of those.... and then I saw that the preemie size were on clearance..... and that's when I started to cry. Right there in the middle of Target. Was I going to need these? again?

No, I was not -- I put them back and pulled myself together -- why rush to the worst conclusion.

Turns out, I was right -- the doctor thinks this baby is a good size...... already over 6 lbs...... if we are already over 6lbs and have 4 weeks to go with the baby gaining between ½ and 1 pound a week...... good God how big can this child get???? and wooohooo how skinny will I be after he/she's born??? okay, let's not get crazy

And, we still have no name for the child-to-be

Every time we get to a place where we say we agree on a name(s), I see the look of relief come across the Big Dubya's face and I feel good about our decision.... but only a day or so goes by before I realize that I'm just still not happy and I ask to go back to the drawing board.

Shut Up

Yep -- yesterday, the 'lil man said his first bad word.........

I was struck by the fact that he used it, and maybe more so by the fact that he used it appropriately. It was hard not to laugh, but I really did resist and we sat down and talked about how that's not a nice way to ask someone (his sister in this case) to be quiet....

I have a feeling this is just the beginning