No Pictures, Please!
July 30, 2008
We attempted to do a 3D ultrasound today. Didn’t happen. Our little baby, who now weighs in at 2 pounds, 9 ounces, wanted nothing to do with having her/his picture taken. She/he was so adamant, that in addition to tucking that little chin to her/his chest – there was also a hand and arm planted firmly in front of the face! So – we will try again in about 2 weeks. Baby Zoe is breech, which makes the ultrasound process a little more complicated. The only thing we were able to see what the top of her/his head!
I really can’t be surprised – stubborn runs in both sides of the family!
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Saturday, July 26, 2008
I Want To Believe
I Want To Believe
July 25, 2008
Some of my favorite college moments did not happen at a bar…or a party. Instead, many of those moments happened in the dark living room of our dorms at Loyola College on Sunday nights. Sunday nights, you see, were X-Files nights.
I only missed a handful of episodes in the entire run of the X-files, and all but one of those was in the first season when the show aired on Friday nights while I was at work. Once the show moved to Sundays – there was no stopping me. I would call my brother (also an X-Files junkie) from college and we would sit completely silent during the show. House rules – you were only allowed to speak during commercials when the X-Files were on.
Yup – it is probably one of the more dorky facts about me – but little by little I converted my roommates into dorky X-files fans as well. Except for one – who brought to the table a love of the X-files as great as my own. Jen, a girl who lived in the room across the hall, and I hit it off pretty much right away. The beginning of our friendship was hanging on the wall of my dorm room – a big X-Files “There’s Something Out There” poster sparked a conversation that turned us into fast friends and roommates for the last two years of college.
After 6 years of waiting, tonight was the premiere of the 2nd X-Files movie. Jen, my fellow X-Files guru, flew from San Francisco to Baltimore on the red-eye to watch the movie in theaters on opening night with me. As excited as I was to see the movie – I was more excited to see Jen.
Once again – I get to marvel at my good fortunes. Not only did Jen fly in from San Francisco, but Teresa came down from Harrisburg. Jen, Teresa, Rich and I made our way over to the Avenue in Whitemarsh to catch the 8:00 show. Admittedly, the movie was not as good as we wanted it to be – but that didn’t bother me at all. It was money well spent because it generated a memory that will always make me smile.
July 25, 2008
Some of my favorite college moments did not happen at a bar…or a party. Instead, many of those moments happened in the dark living room of our dorms at Loyola College on Sunday nights. Sunday nights, you see, were X-Files nights.
I only missed a handful of episodes in the entire run of the X-files, and all but one of those was in the first season when the show aired on Friday nights while I was at work. Once the show moved to Sundays – there was no stopping me. I would call my brother (also an X-Files junkie) from college and we would sit completely silent during the show. House rules – you were only allowed to speak during commercials when the X-Files were on.
Yup – it is probably one of the more dorky facts about me – but little by little I converted my roommates into dorky X-files fans as well. Except for one – who brought to the table a love of the X-files as great as my own. Jen, a girl who lived in the room across the hall, and I hit it off pretty much right away. The beginning of our friendship was hanging on the wall of my dorm room – a big X-Files “There’s Something Out There” poster sparked a conversation that turned us into fast friends and roommates for the last two years of college.
After 6 years of waiting, tonight was the premiere of the 2nd X-Files movie. Jen, my fellow X-Files guru, flew from San Francisco to Baltimore on the red-eye to watch the movie in theaters on opening night with me. As excited as I was to see the movie – I was more excited to see Jen.
Once again – I get to marvel at my good fortunes. Not only did Jen fly in from San Francisco, but Teresa came down from Harrisburg. Jen, Teresa, Rich and I made our way over to the Avenue in Whitemarsh to catch the 8:00 show. Admittedly, the movie was not as good as we wanted it to be – but that didn’t bother me at all. It was money well spent because it generated a memory that will always make me smile.
Friday, July 25, 2008
Get Your Bets in Now!
Get Your Bets in Now!
July 24, 2008
We took a trip to see Dr. Quartner today. The first piece of news is that my C-section is scheduled. October 21 at 7:45am. I was initially disappointed that I was unable to talk Dr. Quartner out of a scheduled C-section. I really wanted to experience going into labor and the excitement of the unplanned. For someone who needs to plan everything, there is something appealing about handing the controls completely over to God. So I spent a big chunk of the afternoon sniffly. Then I got a swift kick in the ass from Renee, followed by another swift one from Teresa, and I realized that although another C-Section isn’t my ideal birthing situation – it’s apparently what is meant for me. And really – the ideal situation is the one that ends in me holding my new, healthy baby!
So – it is time to start thinking about getting your bets in now. Given that I have a C-section scheduled, we changed the parameters of “Guess Baby Zoe” slightly. For Baby Zoe, you need to pick a gender, a weight and a length. We increased the stakes a little - $5/box this time around. Rosie was 6 days late, 9 pounds, 10.4 ounces. This baby will be 4 days early.
July 24, 2008
We took a trip to see Dr. Quartner today. The first piece of news is that my C-section is scheduled. October 21 at 7:45am. I was initially disappointed that I was unable to talk Dr. Quartner out of a scheduled C-section. I really wanted to experience going into labor and the excitement of the unplanned. For someone who needs to plan everything, there is something appealing about handing the controls completely over to God. So I spent a big chunk of the afternoon sniffly. Then I got a swift kick in the ass from Renee, followed by another swift one from Teresa, and I realized that although another C-Section isn’t my ideal birthing situation – it’s apparently what is meant for me. And really – the ideal situation is the one that ends in me holding my new, healthy baby!
So – it is time to start thinking about getting your bets in now. Given that I have a C-section scheduled, we changed the parameters of “Guess Baby Zoe” slightly. For Baby Zoe, you need to pick a gender, a weight and a length. We increased the stakes a little - $5/box this time around. Rosie was 6 days late, 9 pounds, 10.4 ounces. This baby will be 4 days early.
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
Smoke Free
Smoke Free
July 22, 2008
I’ve been smoke free for 3 years now. Just wanted to toot my own horn. (o:
July 22, 2008
I’ve been smoke free for 3 years now. Just wanted to toot my own horn. (o:
Everybody Toots
Rosie puts on Daddy's hat
Helping Daddy touch up the paint in the powder room
Everybody Toots
July 22, 2008
From the time she was a newborn, Rosie had an issue with certain bodily functions – namely, gas. She would get all bent out of shape and, rather than burp, scream her head off. I’m happy to report that she handles all bodily functions much better these days. In fact, she has become obsessed with them.
Today, while Rosie was with Dani, she announced that “Daddy Tooted.” Poor Daddy was still at work and unable to deny the claim himself. Dani sent me a text message – and I had to laugh. The lesson of our day had been “everybody toots.”
It all started relatively early that morning when Rosie let one rip. She turned to me with a very surprised look on her face and covered her butt with her hands. I responded to her “Oh no, wha happen?” with an “it’s OK, baby – you just tooted. Everybody toots.” Well. We just had to go through every single family member that she could think of and confirm that yes, they did indeed toot.
So, now we are a little “toot” obsessed.
July 22, 2008
From the time she was a newborn, Rosie had an issue with certain bodily functions – namely, gas. She would get all bent out of shape and, rather than burp, scream her head off. I’m happy to report that she handles all bodily functions much better these days. In fact, she has become obsessed with them.
Today, while Rosie was with Dani, she announced that “Daddy Tooted.” Poor Daddy was still at work and unable to deny the claim himself. Dani sent me a text message – and I had to laugh. The lesson of our day had been “everybody toots.”
It all started relatively early that morning when Rosie let one rip. She turned to me with a very surprised look on her face and covered her butt with her hands. I responded to her “Oh no, wha happen?” with an “it’s OK, baby – you just tooted. Everybody toots.” Well. We just had to go through every single family member that she could think of and confirm that yes, they did indeed toot.
So, now we are a little “toot” obsessed.
Sunday, July 20, 2008
Rosie’s Baby
Rosie picks up Dabby for some play time
Rosie gives Dabby her bottle - while watching Kermit on TV
Rosie talks to Dabby after a "feeding"Rosie’s Baby
July 19, 2008
Rosie got her first baby doll today. As you know, I have been trying my best to keep all of Rosie’s toys gender neutral, educational and totally princess free. So – when my mom asked me if she could buy Rosie a doll, I was very hesitant. Would this open up the flood gates of overly girly gifts? Would she lose her interest in toys like Noah’s Ark and the Crack House that are geared towards kids, not girls?
Ultimately, logic won out and I agreed that Rosie could have a baby doll – but I wanted her to be the one to pick it out. Off to Toys R Us we went. We wandered for a bit, searching for the doll section. Rosie suddenly shouted “baby doll” and started pointing. There were dolls that burp…dolls that can be fed…dolls that say “mama” and dolls that wet a diaper. Rosie picked the one doll that does absolutely nothing!
This plain little doll came with a blue outfit and a pink outfit – both equally ugly. Its mouth is open slightly, so Nonna picked up a play baby bottle as an accessory. Rosie wanted the keep her new baby in the blue outfit – but when you ask her, the doll is a baby girl. Her name is Dabby. (Abby Dabby is her name for both Abby Cadabby and Zoe from Sesame Street…)
Both Nonna and I tried to put more interesting dolls in front of her – dolls that had binkies…dolls that were a little prettier. Rosie wanted nothing to do with any of them – she just wanted Dabby out of her box. So, Dabby is now her baby doll – complete with a little Pack & Play. Rosie put Dabby to bed today and tried to give Dabby her binkie. Dabby’s mouth isn’t big enough for Rosie’s binkie, but we are all impressed that she was willing to share.
Rosie is very proud of Dabby, her new baby doll…and I am very proud of Rosie. She cuddles her, feeds her – and even burps her new baby doll. (The burping action comes complete with a smack on her back, burping noise and Rosie saying “Shoo me!”)
Friday, July 18, 2008
Rosie & Ben
Ben & Rosie pose for a Photo Op with Elmo!
Rosie gives Ben a kiss...
Ben gives Rosie a kiss...Rosie & Ben
July 17, 2008
We took our second trip of the summer to Sesame Place with cousin Ben, Aunt Jenn, Aunt Suzie and Grandmama. I am happy to report that we had a wonderful afternoon.
After our first trip, I was a little worried about Sesame Place. It seemed a little shady when we were there last month. A little dirty…a little trashy…and not the Oscar the Grouch kind of trash! Fortunately, Sesame Place seemed to have gotten their act together and our park-going experience was wonderful. A large part of what made this trip to SP so special was watching Rosie and Ben interact.
Rosie and Ben were due to arrive exactly 3 months apart. Rosie was a few days late – Ben was a few days early. When I first learned of Jenn’s pregnancy – I was so thrilled because Rosie was going to grow up having a cousin her age. My cousins are a decade older than I am…or a decade younger. At family events, it was really just me and Billy. Billy’s a great counterpart and a fun guy – but having someone new and different to play with every now and then is a very good thing!
I thought it would be years before we would see the signs of friendship between Rosie and Ben. I was so wrong. They were both a little wary of one another when we first got to the park. Actually Rosie was uncharacteristically quiet for the first hour or so that we were there. By the end of the day, they were kissing, holding hands and playing so perfectly, you wouldn’t think they were toddlers. (Although they are both brilliant toddlers – their interaction still amazed and impressed me…)
The seven of us were able to get tickets to the character lunch – which was so worth the price of admission! Unfortunately, the drive up to Sesame Place had me pretty much wiped out. I was having a hard time walking, standing – it was just a tough pregnancy day and I was feeling the pain. So, I volunteered to watch the table while Grandmama took Rosie to see Elmo. I had already had the joy of being with her during another Elmo sighting in Florida – and I wanted my mother-in-law to have the same fun experience. Well – even though this is the third time we have met Elmo, I was still that fool standing at the table, crying as her kid sat on that furry red lap!
Toddlers are magical creatures. It is so much fun to watch their excitement and feel their wonder. As a parent – you get so swept up in their emotions. Even though I couldn’t take her on rides or run around, just watching her face light up with excitement was such a magical thing for me!
We stayed until the 7:00 parade – and both kids looked absolutely pooped. Pooped and totally content. The excitement proved to be too much for Rosie to let go of, however, since we chatted most of the way home about Ben, Big Bird, Elmo and the water she played in. What makes me happiest is that this is just one in a long line of very happy Rosie & Ben memories….
Sunday, July 13, 2008
The Big Bed
Rosie & Daddy snuggled up - ready for bed.
Pounce on Daddy time!
My new big bed provides the perfect wrestling arena!The Big Bed
July 12, 2008
On January 12, 2007, Rosie spent her first night in her crib. I remember thinking that she looked so little and so lost – my tiny, 5-week old baby in this big, huge crib – all by herself! Of course, she didn’t stay in her crib all night long. She woke up after about 4 hours looking to be fed. But those were a long four hours for me.
Just 18-months later, I put my little 19-month old to bed in her “Big Girl Bed” – a queen size bed. We installed bed rails and child-proofed her room to the best of our ability. Regardless, I won’t be sleeping tonight. There she is – this tiny little person – barely 3 feet tall, barely 25 pounds – and sleeping in a queen bed. Just Rosie, Big Bird and Mr. Bear.
She has a beautiful “Big Girl” room. Daddy and Grandpa Fox painted her room in periwinkle. We picked out furniture that she should be able to grow into and not out of…at least I hope!
She is so very excited about having her “Big Room” and likes to show it off to everyone. We visit her big room several times a day. Her furniture got delivered a few days ago, and I have probably made 100 trips up the steps with her in those few days. Finally – she has a mattress and the room is complete.
I know how fortunate we are that she prompted this transition. So many kids love their crib and fight leaving it. Rosie told us that she was done. The timing is also more than perfect. I didn’t want Rosie to feel that she had to give anything up for the new baby that is coming. Now, she has her own space that will always be hers.
July 12, 2008
On January 12, 2007, Rosie spent her first night in her crib. I remember thinking that she looked so little and so lost – my tiny, 5-week old baby in this big, huge crib – all by herself! Of course, she didn’t stay in her crib all night long. She woke up after about 4 hours looking to be fed. But those were a long four hours for me.
Just 18-months later, I put my little 19-month old to bed in her “Big Girl Bed” – a queen size bed. We installed bed rails and child-proofed her room to the best of our ability. Regardless, I won’t be sleeping tonight. There she is – this tiny little person – barely 3 feet tall, barely 25 pounds – and sleeping in a queen bed. Just Rosie, Big Bird and Mr. Bear.
She has a beautiful “Big Girl” room. Daddy and Grandpa Fox painted her room in periwinkle. We picked out furniture that she should be able to grow into and not out of…at least I hope!
She is so very excited about having her “Big Room” and likes to show it off to everyone. We visit her big room several times a day. Her furniture got delivered a few days ago, and I have probably made 100 trips up the steps with her in those few days. Finally – she has a mattress and the room is complete.
I know how fortunate we are that she prompted this transition. So many kids love their crib and fight leaving it. Rosie told us that she was done. The timing is also more than perfect. I didn’t want Rosie to feel that she had to give anything up for the new baby that is coming. Now, she has her own space that will always be hers.
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
The Sweetest Words
The Sweetest WordsJuly 8, 2008
I tell Rosie that I love her more times in a day than I can count. I really do believe in telling people what is in your heart because you never know what tomorrow will bring. This is probably why I spend so much time and money at Hallmark stores – because if I can’t find the words myself, they usually have them for me!
Well – my countless “I love yous” were finally returned today. I went out with my friend Liz for dinner and a mani/pedi. Before leaving Rosie with Dani, I bent over her while she was sitting in her highchair and asked her for a kiss. She gave me one of her sweet little kisses. I brushed her bangs and said “I love you, baby girl.” She looked at me, with her organic peas in hand and said “Bye-bye Mommy. Eyeee lub you.”
Life is complete.
Sleep is a Beautiful Thing
Rosie and Daddy play with bubbles in the green space. We love bubbles!Sleep is a Beautiful Thing
July 2, 2008
Rosie was not born to sleep. She is like me – I would rather do than sleep. I would rather be with friends…rather be on the computer…rather be working…rather be cleaning…there is always something that I could be doing and the thought of that something keeps my eyelids open until the wee small hours of the morning.
As an infant, she didn’t nap. A 20-minute cat-nap here or there – but nothing substantial. So I wasn’t really surprised when she stopped her lovely sleeping and napping habits in favor of staying up too late and refusing to nap during the day.
She’s changing and growing up – and we need to listen to her. Yes, she is really only changing from a baby to a toddler – but is that change of life any less important than a teenager becoming an adult? It may not seem huge to us now – but how important this all must be to her! She is old enough to express many of her needs and wants, and we need to be smart enough to listen!
Well – we did listen last night – and for the first time in two weeks, Rosie slept through the night!! She slept from about 10 last night until about 8 this morning. I am so excited, I could cry!! Although I didn’t sleep well because every noise had me awake and staring intently at the monitor, I feel enlightened. Sleep is a beautiful thing – and I am so looking forward to putting my head on my pillow after class tonight!
“No Cib, Mommy!”
Rosie with "wadee-mey-yon" juice all over her face...“No Cib, Mommy!”
July 1, 2008
I am officially giving in. For about two weeks now my usually wonderful sleeper has been giving me a very hard time going to bed. I checked for patterns. Is she eating too much before bed? Is she thirsty? Is she only waking up at midnight on nights that I have school? No – none of these were the issue. Rosie just really wants out of her crib.
So – tonight, after experimenting with a few naps on our bed and the bed in “the red room” – I put my little baby girl down to sleep in a big girl bed for the first time.
We had her normal bedtime routine of brushing her teeth and putting her in a dry diaper – then she gave us both our good-night kisses. After Daddy left the room, I read her Dr. Suess’s ABC book – gave her another kiss and got off the bed. After a somewhat noisy effort to get the bedrails in place, I made it out into the hallway and closed the door behind me.
She cried “A Mommy” (which is Rosie speak for “I want my Mommy”) twice, and then conked right out.
I don’t think I will be sleeping tonight!
One Little Monkey
One Little Monkey
June 27, 2008
“10 little monkeys jumping on the bed. One fell off and bumped his head. Momma called the doctor and the doctor said, “no more monkey business, jumping on the bed!”
That was one of my favorite silly songs to sing as a kid. Of course, the countdown continues until there are no more monkeys to create the monkey business of jumping on the bed. Well – I only have one monkey (for now) – and she is taking this new monkey obsession of hers to a whole new level…literally.
She became enthralled with monkeys yesterday. She has a monkey stuffed animal that she got at Ben’s first birthday party – and she has a little stuffed bear that she thinks is a monkey. They get dragged all over the house. I don’t know if she saw a monkey climbing somewhere – or if we are all born with a little bit of primate inside…but she has taken this monkey business to heart!
Our previously off-limits couch is no longer off-limits. That’s OK – it’s soft and squishy. This afternoon, however, I caught her on top of our entertainment center in our family room. I was so shocked, I just stood there for a minute with my mouth open. When she started to stand up and reach for the TV, I grabbed her quickly and put her on the floor. We looked at each other, and I was so curious as to how she got herself up there, that I asked her to do it again.
In two seemingly effortless steps, she got on top of the entertainment center. I’m thinking that it is just a matter of weeks before she conquers other pieces of furniture – such as the stools in our kitchen…her crib…baby gates… Oy.
June 27, 2008
“10 little monkeys jumping on the bed. One fell off and bumped his head. Momma called the doctor and the doctor said, “no more monkey business, jumping on the bed!”
That was one of my favorite silly songs to sing as a kid. Of course, the countdown continues until there are no more monkeys to create the monkey business of jumping on the bed. Well – I only have one monkey (for now) – and she is taking this new monkey obsession of hers to a whole new level…literally.
She became enthralled with monkeys yesterday. She has a monkey stuffed animal that she got at Ben’s first birthday party – and she has a little stuffed bear that she thinks is a monkey. They get dragged all over the house. I don’t know if she saw a monkey climbing somewhere – or if we are all born with a little bit of primate inside…but she has taken this monkey business to heart!
Our previously off-limits couch is no longer off-limits. That’s OK – it’s soft and squishy. This afternoon, however, I caught her on top of our entertainment center in our family room. I was so shocked, I just stood there for a minute with my mouth open. When she started to stand up and reach for the TV, I grabbed her quickly and put her on the floor. We looked at each other, and I was so curious as to how she got herself up there, that I asked her to do it again.
In two seemingly effortless steps, she got on top of the entertainment center. I’m thinking that it is just a matter of weeks before she conquers other pieces of furniture – such as the stools in our kitchen…her crib…baby gates… Oy.
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
Josephine/Richie Jr. Update
Rosie and her "baby bump"Josephine/Richie Jr. Update
June 26, 2008
I had a doctor’s appointment today – and all is still going well. As of tomorrow, I will be 23 weeks – which is just amazing. I didn’t think it was possible – but this pregnancy is going even faster than my first. To date, I have gained slightly less weight than I did with Rosie – which is my goal. I gained 25 pounds total with her, and still had a 10 pound kid! Anyway – blood pressure is good – no unusual complaints…
I was a little glum today because my OB decided to schedule a C-section on the 21st or 22nd of October. I was really hoping to avoid that – but I also really want to avoid a full day of labor just to have an unplanned section. So – I guess it is for the best. I have 17 weeks to get used to the idea!
We do officially have first names picked out. Our boy name hasn’t changed from the last time – if this baby is a boy, he will be named after his father…who was named after his father and grandfather… four generations represented in one tiny baby’s name. We will probably call him Richie or “RJ.” If this baby is a girl – she will be a Josephine. Maybe a Jo – or a Josie… (I would have a Rosie and a Josie!) Much like Rosie – we won’t know the name we will actually use until we meet this baby. Rosie is just such a Rosie more than she will ever be a Rosalie. I still love the name Rosalie – but Rosie just describes her. I guess we will have to wait and see with this baby too!
Rosie got to hear the heartbeat again today. I still don’t know if she understands what is happening – but she is starting to demonstrate an understanding of the changes that are happening to me. A few times I have asked her if she can give the baby a kiss – and she immediately comes over to kiss my belly. She has also “tickled” the baby by wiggling her fingers at my belly and saying “baby – ticky, ticky, ticky!” Today, I asked her where her baby was – and she lifted up her own shirt and proudly smacked her stomach and shouted “Belly!” (Which sounds more like Be-yee!)
Rosie has also demonstrated her understanding of this whole thing in the series of pictures above. She, without any prompting, shoved her football underneath her shirt. Once it was there she pointed to the bulge and said “my baby.” After my brother was born, my friends and I all pretended to be pregnant by shoving our soccer balls under our shirts. I was 4. She’s not even 2. I’m impressed.
Happy Day, Nonna! (and a few other cute Rosie stories)
Happy Day, Nonna! (and a few other cute Rosie stories)
June 26, 2008
My Mom and I have birthdays exactly 2 weeks apart. I am the 12th – she is the 26th. ( My father and brother follow the same pattern in reverse – my Dad is the 13th of February, my brother is the 27th.) I had class last night and no one to watch Rosie – so as a birthday treat to herself, my mom came down for the evening and was able to spend her birthday morning with Rosie and me. It was a treat for all of us. I got a nice little break and was able to run some errands without a toddle in tow…Rosie had the undivided attention of her Nonna – and Nonna got some little kid lovin’ as her birthday gift. (Which, in my opinion, is the best gift in the world).
Knowing that my Mom was going to be here on her actual birthday, Rosie and I practiced saying “Happy Birthday, Nonna!” For an 18-month old, she has a great vocabulary – and had no problem repeating the words whenever I said them. Although we practiced many times, I was still completely unprepared for when she knocked on the door to the red room that morning and shouted “Happy Day, Nonna!” All day long – she was a little broken record. “Nonna happy day. Happy day!” Success!
I really do love that feeling when she does something in front of another person that I have been working on diligently. One of my favorites was the first time she addressed my mother-in-law. I had been asking her to say “Grandmama” for months – and her response was the same every time. “NO!” with a vigorous headshake. So – when we were sitting in her living room in April and Rosie busted out with a “Ganma” – I nearly fell over. Success!
The pictures above are of Rosie washing her hands. At first I was so excited because she wanted to wash her hands – and since I’m a freak about hand washing, I thought maybe this was a habit that I had taught her. No. She likes to play in water. Silly Mommy.
We have a routine every day that involves us looking at pictures around the house. I started this when she was itty-bitty and just never stopped. I wanted her to memorize the faces that she wouldn’t be able to see every day. Now that she is a little older, she tells me who most of the people are without hesitation. Well – early today, my mom was walking her through the routine. They are going through all the pictures in the big collage in our living room – and she was hitting all of her family members flawlessly. When my mom got to the picture of her Uncle Dan and said “Rosie – who is this?” Rosie looked at the picture, and said in a very soft little voice “My Danny.” I have a feeling that Dan will take “My Danny” over “Uncle Dan” without a problem for the time being!
June 26, 2008
My Mom and I have birthdays exactly 2 weeks apart. I am the 12th – she is the 26th. ( My father and brother follow the same pattern in reverse – my Dad is the 13th of February, my brother is the 27th.) I had class last night and no one to watch Rosie – so as a birthday treat to herself, my mom came down for the evening and was able to spend her birthday morning with Rosie and me. It was a treat for all of us. I got a nice little break and was able to run some errands without a toddle in tow…Rosie had the undivided attention of her Nonna – and Nonna got some little kid lovin’ as her birthday gift. (Which, in my opinion, is the best gift in the world).
Knowing that my Mom was going to be here on her actual birthday, Rosie and I practiced saying “Happy Birthday, Nonna!” For an 18-month old, she has a great vocabulary – and had no problem repeating the words whenever I said them. Although we practiced many times, I was still completely unprepared for when she knocked on the door to the red room that morning and shouted “Happy Day, Nonna!” All day long – she was a little broken record. “Nonna happy day. Happy day!” Success!
I really do love that feeling when she does something in front of another person that I have been working on diligently. One of my favorites was the first time she addressed my mother-in-law. I had been asking her to say “Grandmama” for months – and her response was the same every time. “NO!” with a vigorous headshake. So – when we were sitting in her living room in April and Rosie busted out with a “Ganma” – I nearly fell over. Success!
The pictures above are of Rosie washing her hands. At first I was so excited because she wanted to wash her hands – and since I’m a freak about hand washing, I thought maybe this was a habit that I had taught her. No. She likes to play in water. Silly Mommy.
We have a routine every day that involves us looking at pictures around the house. I started this when she was itty-bitty and just never stopped. I wanted her to memorize the faces that she wouldn’t be able to see every day. Now that she is a little older, she tells me who most of the people are without hesitation. Well – early today, my mom was walking her through the routine. They are going through all the pictures in the big collage in our living room – and she was hitting all of her family members flawlessly. When my mom got to the picture of her Uncle Dan and said “Rosie – who is this?” Rosie looked at the picture, and said in a very soft little voice “My Danny.” I have a feeling that Dan will take “My Danny” over “Uncle Dan” without a problem for the time being!
Karma Chameleon
Karma Chameleon
AKA the rants of one hormonal pregnant lady
June 25, 2008
We have all heard the saying “Karma is a bitch.” I supposed, given the theory of “you reap what you sow” – karma can be a very nasty thing for some people. I decided today that I am one of the fortunate ones who can be a big fan of karma – and it took a lot of negativity being thrown my way to realize just how lucky and privileged I am.
I have a wonderful, amazing husband who is truly my partner in every sense of the word. In my darkest hours, he has been my light. He is such a good man – I have actually witnessed him take the shirt off of his back to wipe puke off of someone’s face. (Seriously. I think it may have even happened more than once). Although I don’t believe in Prince Charming or “Happily Ever After” – Rich is completely my dream come true. I never wanted to be treated like a “princess” or spoiled. I just wanted love. What I have is a love so sincere and so deep that my heart swells every time I think of him. There are nights that I tear up looking at him while he sleeps - I tear up thinking of that day back in 1998 when I met him and just knew that we were meant to be together. I didn’t even know his name – but something in my heart pulled me to him and I haven’t let go ever since.
I have incredible friends – who listen to me whether I need to complain, cry, whine or rejoice. They are there to help me problem solve why Rosie isn’t sleeping at night – or what I might do to help alleviate some of my pregnancy-induced lower back pain. They listen to me talk about my classes – and whether they are interested or not – they pretend to be because I am interested. And – most importantly – they are there to try and take the pain away that life sometimes causes. Even when they can’t – they try their damnedest. I have some close friends that I have known for nearly half my life…some my entire adult life…one who has completely helped to shape me into the person I am today. One who I have only known for a few years…but I really can’t remember life without her! This circle of friends, which has always consisted of very few females at its core, has grown into a wonderful globe of women from all walks of life who are connected to me. We have some similar likes…similar dislikes…but I know that I can truly count on any of them whenever I am in need.
I have an amazing family. I grew up so very loved – I can only hope that I replicate that feeling of love and warmth to Rosie (and Baby “Zoe”). Although I heard the work “no” plenty (because 17-year-olds shouldn’t own cars, right Dad?), I never wanted for love, affection and attention. My entire family – Mom, Dad, Grandparents, Aunts, Uncles, Brother – everyone came out for everything I did. From dance recitals to my final performance as the star in Spring Theatre at Notre Dame – I had more support than I knew what to do with!
As I have gotten older, my family has grown. Not just my own little family of two becoming a family of three and soon to be four – but my FAMILY. I have in-laws that I can talk to – that I can relate to and that I enjoy being around. I have friends who see their in-laws twice a year. I can’t even image that – and nor do I want to!
And let’s not forget the most amazing piece of Karma – Rosie. Even as I type this I look at the video monitor and the image of her in her crib. She is proof that there is good in this world. She is proof that I have done good in this world. She is my reward. When I think about the times that I thought my heart would break under the strain of reality, those lows seem so insignificant compared to the high I get every day from being Rosie’s mommy.
I found out earlier today that someone very near and dear to my heart was given a clean bill of health. After 6 weeks of life-stealing illness and the threat of lymphoma, she has been released by her oncologist who is thrilled with her progress and no longer feels the need to see her. Now that is some good Karma!
Karma doesn’t really work for everyone. I know too many people who have had more than their fair share of suffering for very little reward. And I have known a few people whose actions were so despicable that they good that went their way seemed thoroughly unjust. And don’t get me wrong – Karma has bit me in the ass a few times (remember that broken ankle? That was totally bad Karma coming back to get me!)
I have learned that sometimes you need to give yourself a good, long look in the mirror and be honest with the kind of person you are – and the kind of person you want to be when you grow up. This life is too short to live with a heavy heart.
I know that I am truly blessed. I look around me and I have happiness everywhere. Some of it I have created for myself – some of it landed in my lap. Yes, in my case, Karma is a lady worth knowing.
AKA the rants of one hormonal pregnant lady
June 25, 2008
We have all heard the saying “Karma is a bitch.” I supposed, given the theory of “you reap what you sow” – karma can be a very nasty thing for some people. I decided today that I am one of the fortunate ones who can be a big fan of karma – and it took a lot of negativity being thrown my way to realize just how lucky and privileged I am.
I have a wonderful, amazing husband who is truly my partner in every sense of the word. In my darkest hours, he has been my light. He is such a good man – I have actually witnessed him take the shirt off of his back to wipe puke off of someone’s face. (Seriously. I think it may have even happened more than once). Although I don’t believe in Prince Charming or “Happily Ever After” – Rich is completely my dream come true. I never wanted to be treated like a “princess” or spoiled. I just wanted love. What I have is a love so sincere and so deep that my heart swells every time I think of him. There are nights that I tear up looking at him while he sleeps - I tear up thinking of that day back in 1998 when I met him and just knew that we were meant to be together. I didn’t even know his name – but something in my heart pulled me to him and I haven’t let go ever since.
I have incredible friends – who listen to me whether I need to complain, cry, whine or rejoice. They are there to help me problem solve why Rosie isn’t sleeping at night – or what I might do to help alleviate some of my pregnancy-induced lower back pain. They listen to me talk about my classes – and whether they are interested or not – they pretend to be because I am interested. And – most importantly – they are there to try and take the pain away that life sometimes causes. Even when they can’t – they try their damnedest. I have some close friends that I have known for nearly half my life…some my entire adult life…one who has completely helped to shape me into the person I am today. One who I have only known for a few years…but I really can’t remember life without her! This circle of friends, which has always consisted of very few females at its core, has grown into a wonderful globe of women from all walks of life who are connected to me. We have some similar likes…similar dislikes…but I know that I can truly count on any of them whenever I am in need.
I have an amazing family. I grew up so very loved – I can only hope that I replicate that feeling of love and warmth to Rosie (and Baby “Zoe”). Although I heard the work “no” plenty (because 17-year-olds shouldn’t own cars, right Dad?), I never wanted for love, affection and attention. My entire family – Mom, Dad, Grandparents, Aunts, Uncles, Brother – everyone came out for everything I did. From dance recitals to my final performance as the star in Spring Theatre at Notre Dame – I had more support than I knew what to do with!
As I have gotten older, my family has grown. Not just my own little family of two becoming a family of three and soon to be four – but my FAMILY. I have in-laws that I can talk to – that I can relate to and that I enjoy being around. I have friends who see their in-laws twice a year. I can’t even image that – and nor do I want to!
And let’s not forget the most amazing piece of Karma – Rosie. Even as I type this I look at the video monitor and the image of her in her crib. She is proof that there is good in this world. She is proof that I have done good in this world. She is my reward. When I think about the times that I thought my heart would break under the strain of reality, those lows seem so insignificant compared to the high I get every day from being Rosie’s mommy.
I found out earlier today that someone very near and dear to my heart was given a clean bill of health. After 6 weeks of life-stealing illness and the threat of lymphoma, she has been released by her oncologist who is thrilled with her progress and no longer feels the need to see her. Now that is some good Karma!
Karma doesn’t really work for everyone. I know too many people who have had more than their fair share of suffering for very little reward. And I have known a few people whose actions were so despicable that they good that went their way seemed thoroughly unjust. And don’t get me wrong – Karma has bit me in the ass a few times (remember that broken ankle? That was totally bad Karma coming back to get me!)
I have learned that sometimes you need to give yourself a good, long look in the mirror and be honest with the kind of person you are – and the kind of person you want to be when you grow up. This life is too short to live with a heavy heart.
I know that I am truly blessed. I look around me and I have happiness everywhere. Some of it I have created for myself – some of it landed in my lap. Yes, in my case, Karma is a lady worth knowing.
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