Ryan at yesterday's party wearing an Elf bib given by a great aunt and playing with the Barbie SUV... he was playing with the convertible first, but this was cute. He just wants a car to play with... doesn't matter if it's girly.

CHRISTMAS EVE

It's Christmas Eve! Maybe there should be no "!" at the end of that sentence. While I am happy, I am also wicked tired. On Friday night we were out 'til 2:30 and dear young Ryan woke up at 6 the next mornining, or the same morning. We were with friends and it was well worth being up so late. I loved every minute of our visit.

I managed a two hour nap and then had to do the mommy and wife stuff. You know, cleaning bottles, packing a diaper bag for later, cleaning house. Then we were out again. Off to a family party for Adam's grandmother. It was nice. We played poker and won. Well, the first game Adam's mom got me out on the first hand. Then Adam came in second. The second game Adam and I were the last two and we just split the money. The game had been going forever so we just ended it. But while we were there Ryan of course got hungry, so I went to get a bottle and there were none! I had left them at home on the stove. I had formula though and lucky for us we were in a home with lots of babies. Thank heaven Ryan was a good baby that wasn't picky about which type of bottle his milk came in because we would have had to drive home 40 minutes with him screaming. He just drank it like a good boy. Then I went to change a diaper... had diapers, but no wipe. I felt like disorganized mommy.

While we were there Ryan ate some Banana Yogurt... the baby stuff. The kid is so sensitive to milk and I never thought he would get sick if I gave him this stuff. He did great. Ate the whole jar! Loved it! We wake him up for his 10 p.m. feeding and he pukes and pukes and pukes! I felt so bad for him. We were standing him up in the tub and he was shivering and we were trying to get him all clean and everything, but it was awful!

This morning he's better. And it's a busy day. Church this morning. Out shopping this afternoon because dadda hasn't finished his shopping yet. Then church this evening with the grandparents. Then dinner at the cousins and home again!

I've enjoyed this weekend so much. I got out of the house! More to come next week too since I don't have Ben anymore. Though it won't necessarily be getting out of the house as it will be seeing friends. Kathleen, my friends Marie and Tanya are coming over for a knitting lesson! Maybe I'll actually master purling!

Merry Christmas all!

Just in case you never read the comments... this person kindly helped me figure out where the thing on GC was... enjoy!


Blueis said...
You can find a link here...

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/3032633/

Then on More students going to christian colleges.

GC on The Today Show

Our dear old Alma Mater was on the Today Show this morning. I just happened to turn it on at the time when they were mentioning something about Christians and Christian Schools and there was Greenville College! Our old neighbor Eugune Dunkley was there. Old Dr. James Lang (back in 1982 when I was in Atlanta I tested a peanut for Jimmy Carter) was there teaching a class. There was the old Methodist Church, which I know has some new name now and there was the Library and many other things! Nothing is on their website about it and I couldn't find anything on the Today Show website either.

Anyway, just thought I'd share.

I FINALLY GET IT!

I got one of those Christmas forwards where you’re supposed to fill in the blanks. Eggnog or Hot Chocolate? You know what I mean. I filled it out, but was really stuck on question 14. I wrote and wrote and wrote and question 14 was two pages. So, I deleted the other stuff and decided I would share question 14 with you.

14. What's the most important thing about the Holidays for you?

Especially this year, the most important thing is that the real meaning of Christmas not be lost in all the “hustle and bustle” of the holidays.

In my devotional this week I’ve been reading about how John the Baptist was so important in the story of Jesus. He was the one who pointed the way to the Messiah… he paved the way. We’re supposed to be the same. Our lives should say, “Look not at me, but at the other one, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.( John 1:29)” Adam and I are the ones who will point the way for Ryan to see Christ. So, the meaning cannot be lost or muffled. We are now the voice crying in the wilderness. We are the ones who, by our example, show that Christ is the real meaning of Christmas. And though Ryan’s so little I hope he gets some meaning out of the story of Christmas this year, even if it’s that Mary had a baby and he was special to the whole world.

While last Christmas I identified with Mary being heavy with child on her way to Bethlehem, this year the entire story has a whole new meaning for me. I see it in a different light. I think I finally understanding the waiting in hope for a savior. The entire story, from the time that God made the covenant with Abraham to the birth of the Messiah finally clicks. These people were yearning for HIM. Just look at Simeon. In Luke 2 it says he was a righteous and devout man who was waiting for the consolation of Israel… waiting for the Messiah. The Holy Spirit had revealed to him that he would not die till he saw His Savior. So, he’s waiting in the temple and Mary and Joseph bring Jesus and he says, “Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you now dismiss your servant in peace. For my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the sight of all people, a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel.” This guy’s whole life was devoted to waiting and looking for the savior. He waited and waited and then, the savior came. How happy he must have been!

This Advent, I truly understand the meaning of this waiting. Just think of all the hymns. Think of the words to “Come thou long expected Jesus” and “O Come, O come Emmanuel.” I bet these writers had a moment like I am having this year. The light just came on for them.

A hymn I truly love is a Catholic one, at least I think it must be because I have never sung it at my non-denominational church. It’s called Waiting in Silence and I feel like this hymn says it for me when it comes to understanding Advent. I’ll share the first verse with you…

“Waiting in silence, waiting in hope; we are your people we long for you, Lord. God ever with us, Emmanuel. Come, Lord Jesus, Maranatha!”

The rest of the hymn talks about thirsting, longing and seeking for the Messiah.

That’s how it was for the Israelites. They felt they truly needed a savior and they were looking for him anywhere. They were desperate.

This should be our lives!

Let’s face it though. The Messiah came, he saved us and we go about our lives. We’re too busy to spend time with him. We’re too busy to spend time with the one who loved us so much that he would die for us. How absurd!

That was my excuse and because I am not perfect, it could be my excuse again. Then I decided this Advent that I would make time. I mean, I make time to watch a movie with Adam. I make time with read books to Ryan. I make time to play games online. I make time to cook and eat. That’s all for my physical life. And my poor spiritual life was dying. It was starving. I think my hunger brought me here though. I wanted to fully understand what I would be teaching Ryan. So, at church I picked up a Christmas devotional that was free and I can’t put it down. I had to make myself not read the entire thing the first night. But through reading that and reading the scriptures that go with it – I feel I fully understanding now.

So, Come thou long expected Jesus, o come, o come, Emmanuel!

A Picture is worth a thousand words


Well I hope so becuase the images below are filling up space and making up for not blogging very often. I hope you enjoy. Here's our Christmas tree. It's a little one this year, but it's just right. It's on a small end table so that Ben and Ryan won't destroy it =)

I clap my hands (a trick I learned from Ben) and then I eat them... yum!

"Hey, only one person at a time in the laundry basket, mum."

Ryan playing in the laundry basket.

Ryan on the move... he's good at crawling!

Ryan eating the lense cover to my camera.

Ryan eating a block.

The story is below, but here are more of the lights!

Adam took me to see Christmas lights in Lebanon on Thursday night. He saw this house on the way home from Rochester on Tuesday and wanted me to see it. I can't believe how many lights and lawn decorations these people put out. The photo doesn't even capture it all. It was COVERED. And there is a house a garage and Mike's Takeout all on the same plot that were just covered. They had every inflatable Christmas lawn decoration ever made plus tons of lights, a nativity, a santa, a grinch a sign that said "Santa stop here" and that's not even a dent into the decorations... it was pretty, but imagine the electricity bill!

THE PARTY WAS GREAT!

Just a quick update. I ended up wearing brown pants, a green/blue button up long sleeved blouse and high heels. Some people showed up in jeans. But I think the clothing I chose was just right. We had a blast! Ryan stayed with his grandparents. Anyway, we went to Anthony's in Portland, which is kind of like the Royal Dump in St. Louis. It's a dinner theater kind of thing. They sang songs from musicals like The Producers, Cats and host of others. We had a five course meal which was so yummy. We sat next to Adam's boss, rather, he sat next to us, and had a great time laughing and talking. I'm glad it's over with. Thanks for the advice. I'm glad there are people who actually read my blog!

Adam's secret Santa liked the purse I made for her (you can see it on my crochet blog) and Adam's boss was his secret Santa and gave him some really cool stuff over the four weeks. I am excited about making the fireside chili that he gave Adam.

This week Adam had yesterday and today off. We're busy working on Christmas cards and the like. Our tree is up as of Saturday and I'll have photos of that and the ever cute Ryan on here soon.

Merry Christmas to you all. And if you happen to read this and know I don't have your mailing address... send it!

Sugguestions wanted

Adam is taking me to his office party this year. Normally this wouldn't be a big deal. I mean, how hard is it to show up, mingle and eat? I guess the issue is that I haven't the slightest idea what to wear, the main reason being that I still have about 5 pounds to loose since having Ryan. Pants are too tight, a dress seems too formal and that leaves jeans. I asked Adam what we are supposed to wear and he said he called and they said something along the lines of Khakis and a sweater. I think I have three sweaters that fit, all of which I would say are frumpy, and no khakis, just jeans.

This past weekend we had to go to an event that required dressing up and I have to admit that I wore a pair of maternity pants (from the early months) and a maternity jacket that was size small so it really didn't look like one. However, the fact that they were maternity clothes just put me in a rotten mood. It'd be okay if I WERE pregnant, but I'm NOT pregnant. It's actually rather depressing.

I have no idea what to wear. I spent today, Tuesday, stressing over this issue. I want to look nice. Who doesn't? I especially want to look nice because these are my husband's co-workers and I don't want to be the frumpy-wife-who-just-had-a-baby lady. My options right now consist of that maternity outfit and a dress that is too formal. GRRR!

So it comes down to the fact of buying something or creating an outfit out of some items in the closet. Will it be black pants, a nice sweater and heels or is that still too casual? A skirt? (it's supposed to be wicked cold on Saturday, so I'm not leaning toward this option) Or??? I have no idea.

Suggestions are very welcome because I officially hate clothes!

Your Aura is Blue

Your Personality: Your natural warmth and intuition nurtures those around you. You are accepting and always follow your heart. You in Love: Relationships are your top priority, and this includes love. You are most happy when you are serious with someone. Your Career: You need to help others in your job to feel satistifed. You would be a great nurse, psychologist, or counselor.

What Color Is Your Aura?

Wow, that GC education paid off...

I GOT A CALL FROM AN OLD FRIEND...

That's the first line to a song that I once knew....

Anyway...

Last night we got a weird message on our answering machine. A woman's voice said, "Number one, it's number two. I got your message. Tag you're it. My cell phone didn't ring this time when you called. It's sitting in front of me. Hopefully you'll get this and I'll talk to you soon."

Weird huh? Neither of us know a number one and don't recall being nicknamed number two.

Anyway, that got me to thinking about friends and how bad I am at keeping in touch. Most people have blogs these days so I just read the blog. I figure, or hope, they read mine and that way, we are keeping in touch.

Let's face it though, it's just not the same. Today, I was hoping to get an e-mail from someone. Anyone. And then I got a phone call from an old friend. He's actually a former teacher turned friend who lives in Florida and is working on his PhD. We caught up as best we could. It had been almost a year since we last talked.

Then, I got on the computer again. This time I was the one writing the e-mail. If you read this blog and you haven't received an e-mail yet, expect to sometime soon. And tonight I got e-mail. It was refreshing. It was from a dear friend who I miss so much. We get along so well and now we live so far apart. I keep hoping for a new friend like her, but none just yet. The thing is, I don't think I will have a friend that is just the same. She is special in her own way and I like that about her. And we talk about things I probably wouldn't talk about with other girls.

The friend who called asked about friends here. We have some. They are nice. We get along well, but we don't go out all the time like our friends from Illinois. It seemed that with Kyle and Sarah we did something almost every week. If nothing else I would get excited about something and leave an extreemly long message on the answering machine. And well, that's kind of what made me want to write this post.

Friends, no matter what nickname you have for them, are precious and deserve more than to read your blog to find out about life. So, write a friend a note or give them a call. I'm sure they'd love to hear from you!

P.S. There's no snow here yet and I'm sad about this!

HAPPY TURKEY! I made the bib this week. I love to crochet and I thought this project was really neat. He'll only wear it a little, but it's still cute. Hope you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving... we sure feel like we have a lot to be thankful for, not just today, but everyday. Gobble, gobble!

A year ago

A year ago this Thursday makes one year since our lives were changed by the loss of a job. I say changed because it put so many things into perspective for me. It changed the way I think about a lot of things.

The first thing I've learned is that we live and we learn. We may think we know it all, but we're learning all the while. We make good decisions and we make bad decisions and we live with those choices.

I've learned that you can make plans about how life will go and then they don't go that way at all. By the time Ryan would have been born we would have saved up enough money to easily pay the hospital bill and make it through a few months of not having a job to enjoy the new baby. Instead by January we had no money in our savings account and were wondering how we would pay the bills for the next month. I was rather tired of hearing people say that God would provide and that we'd be okay. I didn't feel any of those things at that time.

Of course I was able to get a job and still have a job and each month we make it, sometimes we make it with some money left over and other things we just get by. But I have learned that God will provide. He sees us through to the next season (1 Kings 17:10-16). Speaking of God providing, just this week Adam received a paycheck from WM. One we weren't expecting. One that will help see us through.

I've also learned that there are people in this world who truly have the mind of Christ. They take to heart those words that say we are to clothe the naked, feed the hungry, give drink to the thirsty... (Matthew 25:35) even when they are in one of these positions themselves. And there are those who pray without ceasing or becoming weary of heart (thank you from the bottom of our hearts!).

I've learned that no amount of chocolate will heal wounds caused by harsh words said in the heat of the moment. Those chocolates have been given and I've eaten just about all of them. Instead, healing comes with forgiveness... and it's not always easy, especially when people often speak without thinking. But we've all done that before. We're all in need of forgivness and we all need to give that same forgivness.

I've learned that it doesn't matter how much you prepare financially, mentally or physically, NOTHING can prepare you for the love you will feel when your baby enters the world. It's an incredible love. When you hold your baby in your arms and look at him or her and feel that love, you know that no amount of money can buy that love. You don't have to think about that love... it's just there. My mother-in-law once told me that on my wedding day I might have thought I loved Adam as much as I possibly could, but that our love would grow and grow and grow. Her words are true and I feel they also apply to how I feel about Ryan. I love him more each day.

A year ago my faith was weak. But through everything I've learned I know that God is with us. My faith has grown by leaps and bounds, but I suspect that just like the love I have for Adam and Ryan will continue to grow and though I feel I cannot possibly love them more than I already do, so will my faith continue to grow, more than I can possibly know.

While last year I may have not felt I had anything to be thankful for this year I do. And I haven't just felt that thankfulness this week, I've been feeling it for a long time. It's just nice to put it into words.

THE MORNING AFTER

And Maine is still the same old place this morning. Same old govenor and no TABOR. We vote and nothing changes... no wonder people don't bother to vote (though I do plan to keep voting). So we continue with the highest taxes in the nation and a govenor who created a health care plan that is super expensive, but is for those who cannot afford regular health insurance (I laughed when I got the pamphlet on it. The plan costs $360 a month, that is more than my COBRA payment). High taxes drives people and businesses out of the state and then our economy is as bad as Louisana. Oh, and pissed with all the dumb people who voted for the Independent and Green party candidates... they know it's a wasted vote!!!

Adam says we'll eventually move to New Hampshire. I say let's hit Colorado. They have TABOR and a growing economy. Sigh.

THIS ELECTION DAY

At this particular moment in my life I am thrilled to not be working as a reporter. Election day is one of the busiest days for a reporter. At least it was that way for me. You wake up early to vote (if you haven't done an absentee ballot), visit the local polling places in your community for photos and quotes and work on other stories while waiting for the polls to close. Then the polls close and you wait for the votes to be counted. At about midnight you stumble back to the office to write up the rest of your story so you can meet deadline the next day. You get home and attempt to sleep and then get up early to go put a paper together so it's ready for the press.

This is the day reporters live for. They thrive on breaking news and election coverage, especially if they have the "scoop" on someone who is running for office. They live for deadlines and love being under pressure. At least 2/3 of the reporters I know feel this way.

This year, there were no columns about voting issues. There was no in depth interview with a town manager in hopes of understanding a ballot issue. There were no two sides of a story that had to be written. No calls were returned because no calls were made and it's wonderful!

While I miss writing for a newspaper and mingling with the people in the communities in which I once worked, I am trilled to be at home today. Instead of being the one gathering the information, I will simply absorb it as it's broadcast on the local news channel this evening or maybe tomorrow morning. I'm at home and not feeling stressed. I'm at home with Ryan and I'm not attempting to be reporter and not throw up at the same time (last year morning sickness was well underway on election day). I get to play with Ryan and Ben all day long. I get to be mommy. I love being mommy. My stressful days include a teething baby boy who can be consoled by playing choo-choo train and by being given raspberries on his tummy. My deadlines are flexible, making sure he's fed on time, that he naps and plays and has lots of cuddles.

While I enjoy my current job on this election day, I do sit here wondering who will be elected this year. A big part of me is pleading that Baldacci is ousted and that TABOR (Taxpayer Bill of Rights, an initive to limit spending) is passed. Adam went to work this morning fearful that Baldacci will win and even though TABOR will pass, Baldacci will rewrite the entire thing this year with the legislature. We'll see about that. I still have hopes that Woodcock will win and that our super high taxes will be lowered and horrible economy will get a boost.

But I won't be waiting around at the end of the evening at a polling station in Kennebunk. Instead I will be putting little Ryan to sleep and snuggling up with Adam. Sounds so much better than getting home at 2 a.m.

Our little cutie all dressed up for a walk. His first tooth has just broken the surface today! The second is on it's way. Now to worry about being bitten in the shoulder which he uses as a teething "toy".

This was the day before Halloween. Ryan got dressed up in his bear snow suit to go on a walk with us. It's the closest he got to a Halloween costume.

Okay so there are two Halloween photos here... the other two will have to wait until later since this wonderful site is having issues this evening.

So... a McGee update:

I'm loving the weather and I am really sad that the fall leaves are, well, falling. Someone mentioned snow this weekend when I was at the doctor's office (having an allergy test and getting new asthma meds -- haven't needed an emergency inhaler in three years and on Monday I had an awful asthma attack) -- I'm not sure I am ready for the snow. If it shows up at Thanksgiving, that's good, but before seems too early.

Adam is still busy working three jobs (though I still don't count cleaning the office as a real job). We had a nice restful week with my parents and brother last week. Ben's parents (the boy I babysit for) are under contract for a house in Waterboro. They are working out what will happen if they do get it in terms of keeping me for daycare. The good thing is that the husband has to drive to Wells for work, so Sanford is on the way, which means I may keep Ben, but maybe for just three days a week instead of five (his mom has Monday's and Tuesday's off). And on Jan. 29 or Feb. 1 I will get Allison. She'll be four months then and I'm anxious for the extra money, thanks to our friend Kristen. I get to meet Allison soon, which is really exciting.

That's all the excitement for now.

This outfit was given to us for my first baby shower last Christmas. I thought Ryan was really cute in it. It says My little pumpkin on the bib and romper. We did no trick-or-treating. I don't think Ryan would have even understood. Instead we went to Mass for All Saint's day (the vigil) and Ryan screamed and screeched during the singing and prayers!

A very happy Ryan playing with Mr. Jack-o-lantern. He was wearing a shirt that had a ghost on it.

The family came for a visit. We had a nice time together. Spent a few days in North Conway and a few days in Maine. It was very nice to see them. I think this is going to be my parent's Christmas card this year... they, of course, want to show off Ryan!

Ryan was more interested in playing than having his photo taken. Oh well... he's still cute!

Ryan after eating some peas. He's not so sure what to think of them yet, but he loves rice cereal and applesauce.

The McGee's: Vanessa, Nick, Pauline, Roger, Memere, Me, Adam and Ryan! Memere is loosing her memory, so we had a small visit, which really cheered her up.

Okay, I swear we aren't bad parents. BUT, Ryan woke up on Saturday at 5 a.m., drank and bottle and wanted to play. We had to get ready to go to Brunswick, so we put him in the exersaucer to play. One minute he was squeeling in delight and the next he was fast asleep. After the photo we removed him, kissed him and put him in his carseat!

Our Friends Steve and Sarah had their second baby on Monday. Here's little Madison. She is perfectly healthy and weighed 6 lbs 10 oz and was 20 1/4 inches long.

Wildlife

Yesterday was a good day.

At first I didn't think that Saturday was going to be all that exciting. For one, I had to wake up with Adam at 5:30 and drive to Brunswick with him for work, wait around while looking in shops for 1 p.m. and then have the rest of our day together. I wasn't too happy about the early morning part, so I was dreading Saturday.

It started out bad. Ryan woke up at 5 after being stuck in the slots of the crib for the last time! We got a bumper later on Saturday to prevent this. Anyway, so it was 5, Ryan was happy and awake, I was sleepy and wishing we didn't have to go with Adam.

We got ready, got in the car and went to BK for breakfast. There was no food in the house and we needed something fast. The day began to get better... yummy food and a little coffee to wake a sleepy mumma.

On Route 4 Adam suddenly slammed on the breaks. I looked up wondering why the guy in front of us wasn't going and then followed Adam's finger to the moose. A MOOSE, A MOOSE! I have finally seen a moose in Maine.... first time ever since living here for almost three years!!!! I was beginning to think that the only moose I would ever see would be the one that's stuffed and in LL Bean. The moose was majestic. He was HUGE... as along as the car he was standing next to in the used car lot and way taller. His antlers were beautiful. I was so excited about this that I couldn't remember were we put the camera, so by the time I got it out, said moose had crossed the street and wandered into the woods. I was slightly disappointed at this, but glad to see the moose.

The day got even better. I was able to find Ryan two cute outfits (which he really needs now that it's cooler) on super sale at Carter's outlet. I just happened to be there for the 75 percent off. I wasn't going to purchase, just look and then I stumbled on huge savings. We also got an LL Bean winter hat for his HUGE head (it's 18 inches already!) for later this winter. He has hats that fit now, but we wanted to use my coupons for free stuff before it expired. So, a free hat and mittens for Ryan.

Then, I stopped by Adam's work to use the potty and they saw me and let him leave early, which allowed us to make seeing his grandmother, who hasn't been well, for a nice visit and cute family photos.

Then, while picking up the bumper at Babies R Us (no where else sells them separately) they were offering free photos at Kiddie Kandis and we took advantage of the freeness and got really awesome photos of Ryan. Of course they tried to sell us stuff too, but we just took the free stuff and may go back later for other photos.

We had dinner at Nick and Vanessa's house (Adam's brother and sister-in-law) and had a good time.

On the way home on the road by the landfill I saw a shape of some animal on the hill. I asked Adam to stop and back up so we could see it. Well, it just wasn't one, it was an entire family of deer just grazing on the hill. No photos of his wonderful moment either since it was too dark, but it was just awesome watching them. Two big ones even kissed! It was wicked cool.

So, that's our wildlife adventure on a wonderful Saturday that I had been dreading and I have no photos to prove it. But, in case you were wondering, moose do exist. I had my doubts before, but know they exist now.

Things I love about fall

I decided since fall is my favorite time of year that I would complie a short list of the things I love about this season.

I experienced my first fall in Greenville and I haven't stopped loving it yet.

1. Crunching in the leaves.
2. Fall foliage – I love how the colors are so breathtaking in purples, oranges, reds and yellows.
3. Cinnamon scented candles… and pumpkin ones too
4. White hot chocolate
5. Cooler temperatures. It's more fun walking outdoors without sweating
6. Warm comfy pj’s and slippers
7. Flannel sheets
8. Apple pie
9. Thanksgiving - a great excuse to see family and eat lots of yummy food.
10. Weenie roasts and hay rides.

Frustration and Faith

I hate it when people give you the run-around. It's been happening with this one organization for what seems like too long now. First it was that I should keep breastfeeding so I wouldn't have to get their vouchers for formula. I feel I did fairly well on the breastfeeding front, considering I pumped my milk for three months. I was sick of pumping, sick of being up around the clock to do so and felt I had done okay for the first go at it (even my doctor gave me a pat on the back, reminding me that both of our medical problems right after delivery and the ones still going on didn't set us up for a great start... we aim higher next time).

Anyway, then come to find out Ryan has issues with formula, but it's too late to turn back the clock now that the milk is dried up. So, the organization says get a prescription from good old Doc and they will make sure I get the one he can tolerate. Well, today, I show up with the script and they said I need a note of diagnosis! So very frustrating.

*Big deep breath*

On another note, I've been reading about faith. It's so easy to have faith in the good times, but when your back is up against the wall faith is hidden in the deep dark corners of life and we try to draw on other things, like logic, reason and past experience. Hebrews 11 can't say enough about the people who had deep faith in God. How would Moses know when he raised his hands that the waters would part? He just had faith and it happened. The list in that chapter is a good one. I've enjoyed reading it over and over again on my study of faith, so I share it with you so that maybe you will find a nugget of gold for yourself.

Here's Ben wearing Adam's hat. While exploring our kitchen and coat rack the hat feel on his head. Ben cried. So, I had to show him that hats are fun to play with.

Ryan was very excited to be in his exersaucer on Friday morning. He's trying to hold Louis the Lobster in his right hand =)

We also saw Fr. Dan (the priest that married us). He met Ryan for the first time. We ate wonderful double chocolate chip cookies and Maggie's Yummy Burritos.

This weekend we went apple picking with Jeremy, Maggie and their daughter Marianna.

Sarah and Kyle with Ryan.
Okay this photo of our Labor Day get together is a bit dark, but it's the only one of all of us together!

Little Ben!

BLESSINGS

This past weekend was lots of fun. Our dear friends Kyle and Sarah were visiting. We had lots of fun. We played Dutch Blitz, ate Shain's of Maine ice cream, ate at Fi Wood Chinese restaurant, had a bbq, played guitar hero, talked, talked and talked and the girls made jewlery and played with Ryan and the boys played Magic.

When Kyle and Sarah left on Monday night, Adam and I both agreed we were sad to see them leave. We had a lovely time and still agree we are, dispite distance and a bad habit of not keeping in touch, closer to them than many of our other friends. When we get together, we can talk about anything and it always seems like old times.

Sarah made new friends with Ben, the boy I babysit. I am pleased to write here that he will be around a lot longer than I was thinking. His mom said she was leaving his dad and then I suppose that changed over the weekend when he promised to go to counseling with her. I really hope things work out for them. This is her second marriage.

And, in January I will be taking care of a little girl who will be three months old then. Adam and I will be back to what it was like when I had a newspaper job, though we have some debt to take care of before it's really back to old times. I have to say we feel really blessed. God continues to provide in so many ways. We've really learned a lot about ourselves and our finances through our situation. We just never thought one of us would get fired and were one of the many people in this country who weren't saving money like we should have been. While there was money in the bank, there wasn't three months of living in the savings.

Anyway, we are just so thankful and we appreciate the many prayers that have been said for us.

A few random updates...

1. At this point, we aren't going to sell our house. I'm wicked excited about this... we even have a plan on how to keep it. Yay!

2. Adam's leaving WM again and taking another part-time job with a partner of his doctor's for nights and Saturday mornings instead. This job change = more money, better hours, more time with family.

3. I interviewed with a family tonight and will possibily be taking their daughter on as a second child in my day care. More money here too. The couple found out about me through a mutual friend. Funny becuase I was just about to put a new ad in the newpaper and see what happened. If it's meant to be, they'll call back and say I have the job!

4. Ryan has his first cold. I feel awful for him, but he seems in good spirits and isn't really fussy, just congested. Poor kid! I suppose if H, who also had a cold, hadn't been kissing him he would be okay, but I'm not too worried. Kids are bound to get sick at some point.

5. Adam got to go to a soccer game. I'm happy he got to have a boy night and really enjoy himself instead of working and working and working. He deserved such a treat! And New England won, so that made it even better!

6. Looking forward to S. and K. visiting Maine soon. Been a long time since we've seen them and sure do miss them. Such excitement!

Planes, automobiles and the midwest

Ryan took his first plane ride this past weekend. He and I met my mom in Cleveland, Ohio and drove an hour from there to see my grandparents. Ryan was such a good boy on the plane! The first trip, he flirted with another baby across the asile from us and talked with the older lady sitting next to us. On the way back he slept the entire ride!

It was nice to see family again. I hadn't seen my grandparents or my uncles, aunts and cousins since 1999! We had a lovely time catching up and Ryan stole the show. I neglected to take my camera with us, mostly becasue it's large and awkard to pack. Photos, however, are on the way, thanks to my mom.

It was nice to see corn fields again too. I do miss the midwest. We had four and a half wonderful years there and I always say I'd like to go back. Although I enjoyed the trip, I am glad to be back with my honey. Ryan and I both missed him, even though it was only for three days.

Ryan is three months old today! Right now he's napping and little Ben (the boy I babysit) has left for the day, so I thought I'd post something here for this week. Last week, the honey went to the used baby clothing store and purchased baby boy a winter jacket, mittens and this cute exersaucer pictured above. Ryan isn't quite big enough for it yet, but we stuff blankets behind and in front of him and then sit with him and talk and play with him while he's in it. He's very good at holding his head up and loves to be standing up, so this works out good and gives my arms a break (did I mention I am getting really good upper body strenght?). Anyway, daddy picked out the best exersaucer (at a great price... these things are WICKED expensive new). It has lots of farm equipment that detaches from the sides and connects to make a train to play with. When he gets too big for the exersaucer the top comes off and connects to the bottom to make a huge track for the train!

On the issue of the house, a new development. Sister-in-law, who is working her way up the LL Bean ladder in the finance department, is coming over this evening to help us create a plan for staying in home. I am WICKED excited abou this. I've been praying we didn't have to sell. I don't want to move. The thought of it has had me down right depressed, so this glimmer of hope means the world to me. I know there have been many joining us in praying about this issue, and while I don't know if this is the answer just yet, I am hopeful. In addition, father-in-law who has been unemployed for ages now has a job! We are wicked excited for him.

On Saturday, Adam and I made the treck to Panther Pond for his boss' annual BBQ. It was a very relaxing day. The temperature was just right. After a mega lunch of burgers, hot dogs, pasta salad, fruit, chips and dip and dessert, we took a boat ride around the lake. It was really nice and so relaxing. Dr. Mathieu's wife, Diane, kept Ryan at the lake house so both Adam and I could enjoy the ride. Ryan was asleep by the time we got back! I took the camera this year, but still neglected to take photos... sigh!

I was a little disappointed that there was no lobster this year, but that's completly understandable considering the circumstances. Dr. Mathieu had a heart attack in January and has managed to keep his business running while working part-time and having other doctors from other practices fill in the gaps. It's Dr. Mathieu's 20th year in the business and the original plan was to celebrate in Las Vegas (there was going to be an eye care seminar at the same time), but that all changed and we're just happy Adam still has a job (which he loves, by the way, and I can see why. Dr. Mathieu is a really nice guy!).

After the BBQ, we stopped off at Babies R Us to return some bottles that we never opened and weren't planning on using. We exchanged them for two outfits, two more pacifiers (I am tired of trying to figure out where the two we own now are located), two big boy bibs for when Ryan starts soilds in a few more weeks, and some toys for his car seat (they dangle off the handle).

After purchasing the car seat toys, I was able to sit in the front seat with Adam for the first time in who knows how long. Ryan was entertained and we could have conversations without having to yell at each other over Ryan's cries (he hates his car seat).

Adam and I joinned Steve and Sarah to watch a soccer game. The boys watched. The girls talked about babies. Sarah is due for baby number two on Oct. 19.... Trevor, her little boy, will have just turned a year a few weeks prior! We're all hoping he figures out walking by then, but it's not looking too hopeful... he can't quite figure out how to crawl yet.

On Sunday, I worked more on cleaning the basement. We have an appraisal on the house this coming Friday and once that's done I think the house goes on the market.

Already this morning I have painted two doors. We'd been doing it slowly and now it's kind of crunch time since I can't imagine that some one would want to buy a house with a bunch of white doors and a few off white ones. Maybe they would, but at least it will be more attractive this way.

The selling the house issue has been difficult. I know we had to make tough choices and this seems like the right one, but it's not easy. I hate moving and would rather just stay put. We keep saying it's all in God's hands so if the house it meant to sell it will happen and for the right price, but it's so hard to really put our housing future in God's hands and trust him to do what is best for us.

More prayers on this issue still very welcome!

Don't have time to post about crazy life right now, but wanted to show off my beautiful baby boy.


I just love his eye lashes... look at that smile!

Tentative plan regarding the last post…

We are putting our house on the market. This is a huge step for us, but one we know we need to take in order to get fiscally healthy. This week, I will be doing a lot of cleaning around the house to set things up for those who will want to see the house.

The next steps aren’t fully clear yet, but they go something like this. The in-laws hire architect to draw up plans for adding on to their home (we’re hoping to create a huge two-family home or to create an apartment for us, depending on what zoning will allow). When our house sells we have the option of moving in with brother-in-law and wife or living in in-laws basement (which has been flooding this summer) until addition is complete.

My emotions along with my mother-in-laws emotions played a huge role in the decision, though logic had some part. The in-laws house is already paid for, so it would be easier to add on and allow us to pay for that than to incur a new LARGE mortgage for duplex in New Hampshire. Plus the two working parties of our families love their jobs and want to stay there.

So, that’s the plan. I feel overwhelmed, but I know we are making the best decision we can (if we don’t sell, it’s likely that in a few months we would incur more credit card debt to live or loose our home).

Pray for us!

A big hug to Paws! Aren't I adorable?
Ryan, two months, with Pooh who will track how big he grows each month... look for more similar photos to come.

Ever have those times where you feel you are just getting things together and then it all goes south?

On Saturday I was driving from Rochester back to Sanford (I had to get guinea pig food and the only kind they will eat is sold only at a place in Rochester) when car decided to not work properly. Am mad at car because we just purchased it seven months ago. However, we knew car was not wonderful since we purchased it for $1,200. I still felt it could last a year. Now, transmission is kaput! So, as we were steadily climbing our way out of debt acquired after I lost my job in November, we are wondering how to purchase a new car. While I am a stay-at-home mom, I did need a car to go to well-baby-check ups and for sanity. The sanity part could have been done without for a while, but with Adam working two jobs I would be stuck at home ALL the time and relying on one vehicle doesn't seem practical (I was trying to figure out a way to not spend money we really don't have on another car, but husband says impossible).

I know I'm not the only one feeling overwhelmed by money issues lately. Our friends Steve and Sarah had a baby last year and then moved in with Sarah's parents because they were drowing in debt. They were just getting it all together, considering a possible move when Sarah finds out she's six months pregnant! While they are excited for Trevor to have a baby sisiter (Madison) they aren't excited about having to continue to live with their parents and do the money juggle again.

Then to add to all of the thoughts about the car money issue, father-in-law dearest has proposed we sell our homes and buy a duplex in New Hampshire... something we wanted to do when we were first looking for a house. I'm a little unsure about the whole idea, mostly for emotional reasons. We have friends here now, we have a church we love, I know how to get to everywhere, I love my doctor and want to have more children at the local hospital, like current house, don't want to pack up and move.

Husband understanding I think through things with emotions brings his logic to the discussion last night. "Would save LOTS of money sharing a mortgage, new job (wherever that is) would not be taxed at 8 percent like Maine, possibly make more money (Maine has low wages), not as many taxes in New Hampshire as in taxation land. If we purchase a triplex (also something being discussed) we can rent third part out and make money helping with the fact that I don't want to work, but stay home with baby. Parents always nearby to help when needed. All of these things help us get out of debt faster, have stress-free life."

Me: see above on emotional aspects.

Husband: sending out resumes, leaving in God's hands. If a job offer is made, duplex idea meant to be.

Me: We have to pack all this stuff up again? Okay, so nothing has been decided yet, but still not fully sold on idea. And now to find out how late local car dealership is open (where we purchased husband's VERY reliable car. The place I purchased dead car not even in existance anymore).

Our beloved Sir Harry Oakes has passed away. It happened last night. He hadn't been feeling well for a few days and we figured he would go. Harry was an old piggy, though we aren't sure how old. We think he was between five and six years old and that's about the life span of a piggy. It was as if he had been waiting for us to come get him and hold him one last time so he could die. I'd been checking in on him all day and was glad each time that he was still alive. Then Adam came home from work and we were going to force feed him again, but he was going and we knew it, so we just sat with him. He did one last snuggle and run up my shoulders before breathing his last. Then, we buried him in our backyard at 9:30 at night. I felt like I should have been on an episode of Soporanos and hoped our neighbors weren't watching.

We purchased Harry along with Moxie and Malty from a pet store near Fairview Heights. They were our one year wedding anniversary gift to each other. Harry's name was to remind us of that... Oak is a tree and paper comes from trees and paper's what you're supposed to give on that first anniversary. Anyway, Sir Harry Oakes was a famous Bahamian baronet and he was originally from Maine. Harry was OUR piggy, while Moxie was Adam's (named after a horrible Maine drink) and Malty was mine (named after a yummy Bahamian drink).

The remaining pigs are divided among us. My Moose died last year. We still have OUR Chesterand Goldie, Adam's Bear and Moxie are still around and I have my Malty. I considered Harry MINE, though I knew he was OURS. He was my buddy and I will really miss him.

When Moose died a year ago, we wrote an obituary that we posted on the Cavy Forums. I have posted one there for Harry also. We tried to make them fun, as if they were human. They were both part of the family. Anyway, I am putting Harry's here so you can read that too. It gives a sense of who he was and what he was like.

Sir Harry Oakes, Maine

Sir Harry Oakes died on Sunday, July 9, 2006, at 7 Piggy Lane, McGee Residence, Maine.

Sir Harry Oakes’ birth date and place of birth are unknown, but to us he was born into our family shortly after June 8, 2003, when we rescued him from a local pet shop. Harry was the husband of Moxie and he remained faithful to her for the three years we owned him. Sir Harry Oakes was employed as a psychologist, often listening to the problems and good events that took place in his human parent’s lives. Harry first lived with Moxie and Malty until the discovery that he was a boy and he was moved to his own apartment. He later lived with his two sons, Moose and Bear. After the boys grew up, they moved to their own place and Harry once again lived alone, though his house was just next door to Moose, Bear, Moxie and Malty’s homes. He spent a short time living with Bear and Chester, but decided he liked living alone and moved back to his house where he could see all of his family, but still live in peace. Harry loved floor time, cuddling, and nipping human face parts as a sign of affection. As a younger pig, he did lots of popcorning and as an older pig he did a lot of running to show his enjoyment of time on the floor. Harry loved food. Some of his favorites included parsley, carrots, apples, strawberries, grapes, oranges and green peppers. On warm days he enjoyed lying in his hammock. And on cold nights he enjoyed snuggling in his pigloo.

Harry was preceded in death by his son, Moose.

He is survived by his wife, Moxie; son, Bear; daughter, Goldie; sister-in-law, Malty; and adopted son, Chester, all of 7 Piggy Lane, McGee Residence, Maine; two human parents, Adam and Kris; and a newly acquired human brother Ryan.

Ryan all dressed up with Dad and Mum
Ryan with his godparents, Vince and Kris
Adam, Ryan, Vince, Kristin and Kris

Weddings are fun


Our friends Vince and Kristin were married this weekend! They have been dating for seven years, so it was about time. We were all so excited for them. The wedding was wonderful and we had a lovely time. Ryan stole the show a little since he is the godchild of the bride and groom. On the way home, Adam and I admitted to each other that attending their wedding was the most fun we had had in a little while. It was good to be with lots of people our own age and just hang out, dance and have a great time.

The funniest part of the wedding was when the girl who caught the bouquet had to put the garter on the leg of the guy who caught it. Then, the DJ said he had to wear it all night or he'd be buying everyone drinks. It was so funny! The look on the guy's face was priceless. I wish I had taken a photo of that.

When we left, my feet were so sore from dancing the night away with Adam's friend Charlie (Adam's not a dancer, unless the song is slow enough for us to do the box step). The high heels I had on were, well, HIGH. We got home around midnight, after leaving Manchester shortly after 10 p.m. and we're still tired! But, it was a great weekend!

Coutning our blessings

Our day started very early today. I can almost say yesterday never really ended for me. We were at the McGee household for father's day and got home around 9:30. Adam started feeding Ryan while I took a shower and got ready for bed. When I was done, I took over for Adam so he could get to bed a little early. Mr. Ryan never actually went to sleep. He moaned and groaned all night and eventually started crying and could not be consoled. I couldn't figure out what was wrong. As long as we were holding him, he was fine. We even tried letting him "cry it out" just becuase we had no idea. And then at about 3:30 this morning, it dawned on me that, hey, the little man might be sick. So, we took his temperature and discovered he was running a fever of 100.6, which is a bit high for a one month old. So, off to the hospital we went (after talking on the phone with his doctor).

We were at the hospital for a long time... from 4:30 till about 1:30 this afternoon. They ran so many tests... the poor little man has had his heel poked, arm and hand poked -- all three for blood samples. He's had his temp taking quite a few times, had his eyes, ears and throat looked at. And, he had a spinal injection thingy to test for meningitis. Oh and he had a shot of an antibiotic just in case! Plus he's had a few doses of fever reducer. It's so hard to watch your baby suffer, though I will admit, this time I wasn't as an emotional wreck as the first time he had to get a needle. Adam was with me, which was so helpful. We took turns holding Ryan and taking a nap on the hospital bed. I'm glad Ryan isn't whimpering or screeming anymore and that, so far, all the tests have come back negative (they have no clue what's causing the fever).

The two male nurses at the hospital were wonderful! I love SMMC... they have the best staff... well, except for the guy who gives entrathecals. Anyway, the experience was a good one. I can't imagine how it would have been if the nurses were jerks.

I am glad Ryan was healthy for Father's Day. He loved being with his daddy. Together we made him a card for his first father's day and told him how much Ryan loves spending time with him. It's so cute how his eyes light up when his daddy comes home and how he loves to just be next to him. And I'm sure every wife says the same thing, but Adam is a wonderful daddy... he even impressed the nurses with his baby handling skills today.

And admists all of the stress today, I can still see that we are truly blessed. We have a beautiful baby, who is so good... this is the first time he's cried for anything more than wanting a bottle (and most of the time, he doesn't cry for that either, he just sucks on his fingers). And we're feeling blessed that this hospital visit happened while I still have my insurance that we consider "good" and not the one that starts next month with a super high deductible. While we're really tired, we're just counting our blessings today.

World Cup marks an anniversary

So, World Cup started on the 9th and we've been watching as many games as they are showing on ABC. We have no cable tv, and this is the only time I think we've really wanted it, but we're happy that ABC is carrying some of the games for us to watch. Adam's only seen one and Ryan and I have watched three of them. Ryan really likes them, or at least that's the way it seems. He gets wicked excited when goals are scored and makes grunting sounds when bad calls are made. I think sometimes he just likes watching Adam getting all upset about things.

Anyway this past week we celebrated our fourth wedding anniversary. We were in Ireland to celebrate World Cup that year. We wanted to be in Germany for World Cup this year, but having a baby changed that whole plan. Seems we are centering big life events around World Cup... I wonder what big life event will take place in four more years, though at this point, I won't speculate. Why we like soccer so much is beyond me. Maybe it's because it's more fast-paced than baseball, though I like going to baseball games, too. Go Cards! (yes my loyalties still lie in St. Louis where I saw my first baseball game in a staduim. Plus, Red Sox tickets are wicked expensive and it takes too long to travel there). I like hockey too, though mostly because you can expect an all out fist fight easily within the first three seconds of a game.

Anyway, back to the anniversary. It was weird leaving Ryan behind. My parents watched him for us, though I left strict instructions that he remain at home and not be taken anywhere else. It's not that I don't trust them, it's just that I'm nervous... he's so little and he's baby number one... it's expected that we be over cautious, right?

We didn't go far from home, but not because of Ryan, it was becasue Adam doesn't get home until 6 and if we had to drive a half hour, wait a half hour for a table and then eat and come home, it would have been rather late. I wish now, that I had agreed to meet him at the Steakhouse in Wells. We ate at the Back Street Grill here, which has ALWAYS had good service and great food, except for this night. All of our food (bread, appetizers, main course) were over cooked, which made it just that tiny bit unenjoyable. The wine, however, was great - Monkey Bay was the brand and it was a white wine, but that's all I remember. I didn't even drink it all because I am breast feeding, but it was good for the toast! Another note on the bright side was that we were able to talk alone and be together and that the Shain's of Maine ice cream was wicked yummy in the tummy. And we ended our fourth anniversary by watching some pointless show on television, but are looking forward to many more years to celebrate, hopefully with better food and always with Shain's of Maine =)

Our cutie gives a small grin for the camera! Isn't he just adorable?
Daddy reads to Ryan. It's "Go Dog, Go!" a great book read to Ryan while in the womb and now before bed.


Week three of motherhood has begun. I think I'm getting the hang of doctor's visits and night time feedings, two of the things I've struggled with in these first few days. My parents have been here, so Ryan gets to visit them early in the morning while I try to snooze a little before the day begins. Poor Adam has been struggling with the sleep aspect, but I think he's getting better at going to bed early and not waking up at every noise the little man makes.

It's been really neat to see Ryan just growing so much in the past few weeks. His face is getting fat and some of his clothes are getting too small. He eats like no other, but I'm told this will calm down soon. I know he's going through a growth spurt, so it's okay.

And surprises keep coming in the mail, for which I am so grateful. Cards and packages alike make my day so exciting. Thank you to all who have sent things recently!

Good test results

Being a mommy is getting easier. Now that I am not so sleep deprived the world is looking like its usual beautiful self. My parents arrived this weekend and have been a great help to both Adam and me so far. Having them look after Ryan from 9 p.m. to midnight has been wonderful. Sleep has been great! In addition, it's nice to see that kitchen floors can be clean again and that meals consist more of "real food" than things like frozen pizza and meals that come in a can.

In addition to having the parents around, it was also good to have a quick blood test for Ryan on Tuesday, which consisted of one poke and not 10 to my cutiepie's arms. It was also great to find out the results were normal. No blood test for the little guy for another month. But, he had his first shot and screamed about that and was kinda fussy about it for the rest of the day. Oh well, the world can't be perfect all the time, but we can count our blessings, no matter how small.

Friends are a good thing. Yesterday was a wonderful day for me. I got up and fed Ryan at 6, took a nap and then my friend Lyn stopped by with breakfast! We had a lovely time visiting together. We hadn't seen each other in probably a month, so it was nice to get together. We always seem to get togther over food, which, in pregnancy, was great and after pregnancy still is great!

While Lyn was here, Ryan pooped all over me. He'd taken a shot at daddy the night before, but missed. He's been on amoxicillin and I think it's given him explosive poopy. So, Lyn was lucky becuase I was just about to pass Ryan off to her.

Then, my friend Kristin came over. She and Vince are getting married in just a few weeks and they will be the godparents to little Ryan. She took me out to lunch at Backstreet Grill -- oh so yummy! And then spent the day with me. She fed Ryan while I pumped, chatted with me, helped me do grocery shopping and took me out for a DQ Blizzard!

Oh, and Kim visited also. It was great to have friends stop by. Mostly, it was good to have such a wonderful friend in Kristin who would take her day off to spend it all with Ryan and me. This is the kind of thing a new mom needs. It's good just to be with someone else and not all alone with baby for millions of hours (Adam worked both of his jobs yesterday and wasn't home until 9:30 p.m.)

And I can't forget my other friends who have written in response to my "On being a mommy" post. I need them to "be there" just as much as the people who are physically here. It's all about knowing people care and are there to support you, whether through a phone call an email or a promised meal if they could only be here.

And love is what joins us all in friendship. As my friend Merri would say, "Love is the egg in the hamburger: it binds us all together."

On being a mommy

Okay, I am supposed to be taking a nap right now. I can't tell you why I'm not taking a nap. The most likely reason is because I wanted to write and since Ryan is sleeping, it's the perfect time.

This week has been a little tough for me. First, Adam went back to work on Monday, though he had been working his part-time job since Friday of last week. The first two mornings, I cried when he left. The thought of being alone with baby seemed overwhelming. I know that my job right now doesn't seem too difficult. The job description is to simply, love, diaper and feed Ryan and to take naps. How can that be so hard? It all comes down to lack of sleep. When you're tired, everything seems a lot bigger; more challenging.

On Tuesday, we awoke to find that Ryan had a yucky crusty, goopy eye. After calling the doctor we were scheduled to see her that afternoon. He also had to get blood work done at the hospital (they think he has hypothyroidism, but that it's because I had hyperthyroidism during pregnancy and that my meds may have given false readings on his tests at the hospital) so I thought I'd kill two birds with one stone and eliminate the doctor's appointment I was supposed to have today.

I arrived at the hospital with almost two hours to spare before the doctor's appointment, only to be late for that appointment because it took them what seemed like a million pricks in his tiny arms (they said they could collect the blood from his heel when we left the hospital last week) and about two hours. At first, I was with him. But because I almost passed out and was balling my eyes out thinking about how he was so little and how it must scare and hurt him so much, I sat wringing my hands in the waiting room for about an hour and a half of the two hour ordeal.

I wasn't happy when I arrived at the doctor's office to discover they had put the bandages where they attempted to draw blood from him on so tight that his arm was purple either. But, it was nice to be in the company of familiar faces. It's amazing how close you can feel to your doctor and the nurse after you've spent nine months visiting them. Ryan weighed 7 lbs and 9 1/2 oz at this visit, which is good. He's almost back to birth weight, so at least this breastfeeding thing is working, though I have resorted to pumping because we have latch on issues.

Anyway, the doctor came to look at his eye and said if it was infected he would have to go back to the hospital. That only got me crying more, which I think scared her a little and so the questions started about me and how I am handling being a new mom. And like I said, it all boils down to lack of sleep, but when I should be sleeping, like now, I can't and I'm doing other things like writing or watching television.

Today, we had to see a specialist for Ryan's yucky eye. He has a clogged tear duct that basically just needs some tender loving care. We left that office a little frustrated because Adam had lost a half day of work coming with me to be my emotional support and because it took WAY too long for them to see us. It's nice to know that Adam works with such nice people that when we got there they reassured us that while he may have been needed, they understand that family comes first.

On another note, my parents arrive this weekend. This means they can sit with me in the waiting room next week while Ryan once again has a blood test to check on his thyroid issues. And, I won't feel all alone while Adam's at work. I'll at least have my mom helping me figure out if I have Ryan dressed appropriately for the weather and that kind of thing.

Until then, I'll have comfort in the fact that other mothers understand some of what I feel. Babies are so little and we want the best for them and it seems hard to do just that, though I know I am doing what's best for him by tackling these medical issues right away. Being a mommy is hard, but it's so rewarding when you can kiss and cuddle your little one and know that he feels safe with you.

A baby is born

Ryan was born on Monday! While labor was by no means easy, it was quick, and I am glad to have our little bundle of joy at home. There's a very proud papa in the house who posted a huge sign outside our house announcing to the neighborhood that baby is a boy. I don't think it's really hit us just yet that we are both parents. It feels like we are doing some week long babysitting. I've had my share of roller coaster emotions this week. Adam left for work yesterday and I cried my eyes out because Ryan wouldn't latch on and he kept screaming for food. I cried when they took him to circumsize him. I was wicked excited when labor was over and that the hospital food was really good. And it's been fun to have visitors, even ones all the way from Illinois, even though they were only here for a little while.

Update on baby

Monday marked my last day at work. While I am thrilled to be off of my feet, I do miss the interaction with customers and staff members. I feel a little spoiled by them and know that I work for and with wonderful people. Everyone kept asking when I was punching out, which made me a bit suspicious, but thankfully only a few people were around to wish me good luck (I really hate being the center of attention) and to give me a beautiful basket filled with items for Little McGee.

Tuesday was yet another doctor visit for me. This time I am about 2 1/2 cm dilated and 50 percent effaced (my how things change from doctor to doctor). I am confident that if I keep walking, Little McGee can still arrive on Adam's vacation week so the three of us have some alone time together to figure each other out. I also had a non-stress test yesterday. It was neat to see the contractions and the heartbeat charted on the machine.

Today, I get to go back to the doctor for a test they forgot to do and which needs to be done before I give birth.

As for my time off of work, I've created a list of things to do before baby arrives. I was told I won't get them all done, but at least I won't be bored and wondering what to do with myself. And if anyone wants to do lunch or anything, I'm game.

Yay for baby


Just a quick update to say that we are thrilled the ultra sound we had today showed that little McGee is head down. While I could identify other body parts, I had a hard time seeing the face adn fingers stuffed into his or her mouth, but Adam did not miss out and thought it was cute. I just couldn't figure out what it was I was looking at this time. Oh well, at least baby is ready to come out.

Bummed about a little bum

So, today was the weekly doctor visit that I so look forward to, especially knowing that baby can make an appearence any day now. I think I'd rather have gone on blissfully thinking about my last visit than have the news I had today. I now know how my friend Sarah felt after being 3 cm for weeks only to be told on her last visit she was only 1 cm dilated (she gave birth that same evening).

So, what was the news that was so disappointing. Well, not only have I regressed in the dilation department, from 2 cm last week to only 1 cm this week, my doctor is almost sure that Little McGee has his bum in the downward position, rather than his head. *Sigh* As she was feeling my belly today, that's the last thing I expected her to say. And after an internal exam, she still felt the same way. So, that hard lump we've all been touching, thinking it's the baby's back or something, might very well bed the head. I hope we haven't dented it or anything of the sort.

On Thursday, I make my way to the hospital to have them do a position check via ultra sound. Here's hoping the doctor is wrong. Needless to say, I am bummed that baby's bum might be in the wrong direction. As I drove home, I thought about it all, the possiblity of a c-section and how this was the one thing I feared, knowing my grandmother's babies were all breech babies.

I guess there's no use worrying about it, especially since we'll know in a few days where little baby rests. Until then, I go to work and hope for a good day.

Predictions about baby

This weekend was a busy one. Adam and I worked to create new cages for the guinea pigs. We finally finished last night around 10:30 and put them inside. Harry was really happy to be wedged in a cage between the girls and the boys and everyone seems happy with their new place. Now, to paint the room they were living in and clean it up (they are in the basement now).

We spent some time on Saturday at Nick and Vanessa's place working on their basement renovations. I didn't do any of the work, but the guys worked really hard. They hope to have it done next weekend, but I think they always under estimate the time it takes to do the work.

One common theme this weekend were the predictions of when I'll go into labor. Vanessa will be in New York next weekend, so she predicts May 7 as the day Little McGee will make an appearence in the world. Nick says May 10 (a number I think that was randomly picked out of a hat). My mother-in-law simply says I'll go into labor a week early, to coincide with Adam's vacation. My friend Sarah simply says it will be earlier than later. And my friend Lyn gave the best prediction, but I think she's wrong on a few aspects. Lyn says I'll have baby on week early, it will be a boy, weigh 7 lbs 7 oz and be 21 inches long. I don't know who will be right, but I'll certainly have an update tomorrow after my very early morning doctor's appointment.

Today I am 36 weeks and two days pregnant. Amazingly, the past few months have gone by quickly, though the last few weeks seem to be dragging. I am ready for baby to arrive. So, I was at least a little pleased when I visited the doctor today and they said I am 2 centermetres dilated and that baby is in a head-down position. But for those of you who have been pregnant before or just know a lot about pregnancy, you know that being 2 cm dilated means nothing. Doctors don't like to predict when we'll go into labor, mainly because they have no clue. Our bodies do their own thing.

So, when can we expect Little McGee? Sometime between today and after May 23, my due date. I get to "hurry up and wait." Since today is a beautiful day with no rain in sight, I plan to clean my car and install the car seat. Then I'm going to sit on the swing and enjoy a book I checked out of the library last night. I may get around to scrapbooking, too. Yesterday, I finished the photos from 2005 and added the baby shower to the baby book. But there's always more scrapbooking to be done. I still have wedding photos to get into the wedding album - I'm just about four years behind!

Last night, Adam and I chatted before going to sleep about interesting people. I think we could both write a book about the interesting people we have met. I know that "it takes all kinds" to make the world, but some people just cause you to do a double take.
I've worked for a big box store for the past six months and I've encountered these poeple on a regular basis. I can tell a million stories, but I'll just narrow it down to a few. Last week, an elderly gentlman wanted to pay for his purchase with a credit card. It wasn't signed, so I asked for his ID. His response: "You need to see my ID like I need a hole in my head." After throwing numerous credit cards at me that were signed and then showing me every kind of ID that doesn't count, we finally got to his driver's license. While he was throwing his tantrum I was trying to explain that I was simply doing my job and that, if I wanted to be a complete jerk, I could have just declined his sale based on the fact that the card wasn't signed and therefore not a legal form of tender. The couple behind him blurted out that they hope they don't turn out to be like him when they get old. Me too.
Then there was a guy this week whose check was declined. Now, no matter who they are, when their check is declined, they always say they don't understand because they have enough money in the bank. Telling me this does no good. I can't change the fact that it was declined just by you giving me your word. Sorry. Well, this guy was weird to begin with. He was wearing rubber gloves to do his shopping. Anyway, he steps to the side to call the find out why his check is declined and gets frustrated and says what he'll do is go to the bank and get some money to pay for the items. He was holding smokes in his hand that would have been purchased in the transaction had he paid, so I reminded him to leave them there. I watched as he put them in one of the bags and then continued to help another customer. He came back for his stuff on my break and it was then that the person who was redoing the order noticed that the smokes were missing. She assumed I had put them back on the shelf, but he said that he had already smoked them. HELLO, you stole that package of smokes! And how did you sneak them when I watched you put them in the bag?
The lady who works at my doctor's office once told me I was full of poop because I held on to her credit card as she signed it. I have to treat her like any other customer.... sorry no favorites. And becasue I know you from somewhere else, doesn't mean I am sure you aren't a theif.
And there are more people too. Those who insist that items are on sale when they know they aren't. For example, do you really think a $80 comforter set would be marked down to $9.99? Probably not. That's a heck of a loss for any company. It's just not going to happen. There are old people who have to count out the EXACT amount of money because they hate to break at $20 bill for a sale of $19.95. There are old people who always make me laugh when they attempt to use the credit card machine by holding the side of the card with the magnetic strip between their thumb and finger and wonder why it won't work. And then there are the people that amaze me. Like the blind lady who can write a check or the elderly gentleman that knows his pin number and is very quick to put the transaction through. And then there are the people who wonder how their total got to be $11 and when you say, well the cough syrup was $5, the the drink was $1 and the shirt was $4, plus tax equals $11, they still can't figure it ou and you want to scream at them.
But if you asked me whether I love my job, I'd say yes. I enjoy meeting most of the people, seeing the regulars and getting paid to do mindless work. And I'm glad to world if full of colorful people. It would stink if we were all the same. I just wish we all had brains and managed to communicate at the same level once we hit adulthood.
"We are fearfully and wonderfully made."