Circle Of Life

Some More Eye Candy

noreply@blogger.com (Multi-tasking Mommy) — Mon, 13 Oct 2008 16:06:00 +0000

And Russ, don't be scared to look! ;)

The one eyed "root"!

I LOVE my sling!!! We got a bit of sunlight yesterday to try and help with the jaundice situation--anything to keep us away from the hospital!

"YMCA"

My Little Man

noreply@blogger.com (Multi-tasking Mommy) — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 21:18:00 +0000

If you've been following SciFi Dad at all, you'll know that we're home and doing really well!

I had my Little Man last Wednesday and we arrived home from the hospital on Sunday. We had an extra long hospital stay due to low blood sugars and jaundice.

We're home now and finding our groove.

My Little Man is feeding well, I think. I am heading out to the breastfeeding clinic on Friday, as my nipples do feel like they are going to fall off. However, he's drinking and peeing and that's all that really matters to me at this point.

"I'm a boob man"

He is also a GREAT sleeper. If anything, he sleeps too much. Geez, can't complain about that, now can I? And me--I feel like I'm on a honeymoon or something cuz I'm sleeping like a champ when I can. Considering I didn't sleep for the last month during pregnancy, I feel like I've slept for days and days and feel so well rested.

My recovery is going really well. I'm so much further ahead than I was the last time around. I'm able to go for very short walks to get the mail. I can get in and out of bed by myself, which is a miracle and I can even get the Little Man out of his crib. I am feeling so great about my progress and couldn't ask for a better recovery.

I want to write so much more and I do apologize for this disjointed post, but I wanted to let you know that I'm here. I'm not reading and I still haven't caught up on email, but I'm here!

Here's some eye candy:

This photo makes me feel better because even though he was a huge baby at 9 lbs 8 oz, compared to my hands, he's still a little peanut!

It's A Boy!

noreply@blogger.com (Multi-tasking Mommy) — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 19:48:00 +0000

Hello Circle of Life readers. SciFi Dad here.

Just a quick update as I don't have WiFi access at the hospital.

The baby was born today at 8.58am, weighing 9lbs, 8oz and 20 inches long.

Mom and baby are both doing fine. The c-section went exceptionally well, and breastfeeding is going great. The munchkin loves her new baby brother so much.

Shrinking Wednesday Week 39

noreply@blogger.com (Multi-tasking Mommy) — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 10:00:00 +0000

As this post is published, I will be arriving at the hospital to have my baby!

It has been the strangest feeling knowing that unless I went into labour early (which I truly thought I would), we knew the date of our baby's arrival.

I don't anticipate being on the computer for quite some time. Although I'm sure I'll come up with many blog posts in my mind during the night time feedings, I truly want to take the next little while for me and my family.

I know how quickly babies grow up and I want to focus on this one without feeling any pressure to blog as this more than likely will be our last. I know that you all understand this and that I have your support. Thank you!

My hubby will be posting a birth announcement as soon as he can, with photos too, I'm sure.

As well, please do feel free to email me, as I will love to get the connection to the outside world.

P.S. Thanks for my friend, LD for the name of this post this week!

The Waiting Game...

noreply@blogger.com (Multi-tasking Mommy) — Sun, 28 Sep 2008 12:56:00 +0000

Update: I have posted my contest winners over at my Multi-Testing Mommy Blog and I have also posted an organization post at my Multi-Tasking Mommy Blog! Please go check them both out.

Here I am, sitting in front of the computer on Sunday morning, drinking my COFFEE and enjoying the silence.

SciFi Dad and the bunny have gone on their last official Daddy/daughter date before the baby comes. He's taken her out for breakfast. And while they are gone, I was given STRICT instructions to relax and do something for myself. Not the laundry that needs doing or the beds that need making or the kitchen that needs cleaning....just something for me.

So, here I am!

What did I find tucked in the coffee maker this morning but a letter from SciFi Dad that literally put me to tears. He is an excellent writer, as I'm sure those of you who read his blog would agree. When he writes personal letters, would you believe it gets even better?

I won't get into too much detail, but he truly wrote me the sweetest letter ever. It made me feel more loved than ever and very special. With putting so much focus on our entire family this last little while and with not feeling very well, we really haven't focussed on "us" lately, so this letter was really, really nice to get! Thank you, SciFi Dad! You are the greatest.

As I wait in anticipation of this baby boy arriving on Wednesday, I naturally have mixed feelings.

I'm super, super excited and cannot wait to have a brand new baby in the house again. It's no secret that I absolutely adore babies and if I could have 50 of them, I would!

I'm excited for the bunny to finally be able to meet her baby brother, something that seems like has been the longest wait ever in history!

I'm nervous--probably more nervous than I've ever been for anything in my life about the surgery (c-section) and just want that part to be over with.

And finally, I'm looking forward to having a family of four and finding our groove as we welcome this little baby into the world!

Happy Sunday, everyone!

The Wicked, MEAN coffee lady!

noreply@blogger.com (Multi-tasking Mommy) — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 12:08:00 +0000

Last Friday (wow, I can't believe that was already a week ago!), the family went to Costco for what seemed like our weekly Costco trip. Fridays after work are a great time to go there because they have so many samples to keep the bunny happy ~~in the cart~~.

I was feeling particularly tired on Friday, so when I saw the coffee sample station, I was right up there in line for my mini cup o' java!

SciFi Dad and the bunny carried on down an aisle and when I reached the front of the line, I got what is probably the WORST look I have ever received from the woman who was serving the coffee.

She took that one, mean, horrible look at me and said, "You're not having coffee..." and after a long pause, she continued, "....are you?" while shaking her head.

When I responded that yes I was and that it was perfectly safe and fine to have a small cup of coffee (why oh why do I feel I always have to defend myself?), she paused again for a long time, just starring me down and said something along the lines of "I'm not so sure about that", giving me a look like a mother would give to their child who was making the worst choice of their life.

She continued on to say that she would give me the lightest kind that they had. I barely had the opportunity to tell her that I only wanted the sample sized cup only half full so I could fill the rest with milk.

I walked off almost wanting to cry. I felt like shoving the cup she had poured me back in her face and saying thanks anyway, but I really wanted the darn coffee.

I've done the research. I know that a bit of coffee every day isn't going to hurt the baby. Why would I let some old ~~hag~~ woman make me feel guilty for my choices?

When I caught up with the hubby and bunny, I told the hubby what had happened. He made quite a scene as we walked by the lady again, saying, "She did WHAT?!?" I was quite embarrassed and just wanted to leave Costco.

Later in the trip, he went back to the coffee stand where the following exchange occurred:

"Excuse me?"

"Yes?"

"I'm here because my wife is too nice to tell you how rude you were. Your job is to serve coffee. That's what you do. You pour it into a cup and give it to people. You are not a doctor. You are not a nurse. You are not a medical professional of any kind. Your job is to serve coffee."

"I..."

"Please, don't interrupt me when I am speaking. That's rude too. You don't know my wife. You don't know her history. You don't know what her doctor has told her about her caffeine intake and her blood pressure. You have no right to say anything to her about that. Your job is to serve coffee; that's it. Not provide an armchair medical opinion, not make her feel more stressed out. Just serve coffee."

"Please tell your wife I'm sorry."

Please feel free to head over to my Multi-tasking Mommy blog, where I've posted some new recipes for you to check out.

Am I Spoiled?

noreply@blogger.com (Multi-tasking Mommy) — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 11:09:00 +0000

Or am I just taken care of?

Whichever it is, I am truly thankful for my amazing SciFi Hubby!

I have voluntarily banned myself from his blog this week so that he can blog freely (not that he usually doesn't, but...) about his thoughts and feelings leading up to next Wednesday, the birth of our son. I know that deep down, he has feelings that needed to get out and what a better place than your blog to vent out those feelings, right?! And to get some lovin' support too (so go on over and give him a virtual hug...PLEASE?!?!)

He was so worried about upsetting me, that I just said to him that I wouldn't read. It's easier said than done, but I can be trusted. If you tell me there's a present hidden on the shelf in the closet, I can be trusted to go into the closet, keep my eyes down and not even be tempted to look near the present.

Anyhow, yesterday, he came home from work, got changed and immediately gave me a foot rub. Something that I haven't had in quite a long time. He told to me thank the "internets" because it was them that suggested it. So, I wanted to personally thank you--whoever you are, that suggested it! It felt so amazing and it helped (even if it was temporary relief) with the swelling that has been causing me some major discomfort these days.

THEN, after coming home from a dessert night out with my close girlfriend (so that I could do my "venting"), I lay down on the couch to watch 90210 that we had taped the night before to find myself getting my feet rubbed again. Man oh man...what did he say over there at his place? What did you say?! Thank you! Whatever it was.

Anyhow, in his defense, he said that he has been scared to rub my feet for fear that he would hurt me and that he assumed I would ask if I wanted a foot rub, which he learned last night I wouldn't. I'm just not that type of person.

So, on the same "spoiling" theme, on the weekend, SciFi Dad also made a HUGE batch of my favourite, yummy cheddar potato soup that we froze for after the baby comes AND I was treated to the left over braciola that he had served for our wedding anniversary--yummy!!!

I got called back to my family doctor's last night right before dinner, as he received my blood work back from the other day and he wanted to check my blood pressure again. As it turns out, after a long wait, few checks, a call to the hospital, etc. everything is "fine", but I am to "watch" myself very closely. I have an OB appointment tomorrow, so I'm being monitored quite closely.

I woke up this morning, feeling like I had done an all night sit up! My stomach is pretty hard this morning. What a weird sensation after having Braxton Hicks all night.

Please head over to my Multi-Testing Mommy blog to enter my very first contest! I'd love a nice turnout for this contest, so please share the link with all of your internet buddies and send them on over to enter! Three lucky winners will get their very own List Caddy!

Widening Wednesday Week 38

noreply@blogger.com (Multi-tasking Mommy) — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 10:51:00 +0000

My truly amazing hubby came up with the word for this weekly post! We couldn't think of another appropriate title.

Every Tuesday marks another week of pregnancy and we take a photo of my every so expanding belly.

The hubby commented that I should be sharing my belly with you so, here it is...

Here's my weekly photo for those of you who don't want to wait for the slideshow...you know it's getting near when...:

Hmmm...what to report?

We're pretty much ready to go. Every day now, the bunny asks me if this is the day the baby is coming out. Whenever I tell her that her grandparents are coming for a visit, she jumps all around announcing that the baby is coming out!

We have a countdown calendar that we mark off each day for her to visualize how many days are left and the excitement in her eyes when we count each day is just surreal!

I'm getting more and more excited and more and more nervous!

I am also swelling like crazy! My ankles and feet are actually hurting to the point where I can barely move them at times.

I was so lucky to have my Mom over yesterday. I literally put my feet up and she watched the bunny, prepared lunch, put the bunny down for nap and even snuggled with her in bed once she had woken up in hopes to keep her quiet for a little bit longer so that I could continue to rest.

It's really hard for me to sit still and do nothing! However, I know my limits and I have just about reached them, so sitting with my feet up has become not so much a comfort as a necessity these days.

I am so lucky to have the support from my hubby! He's been really taking care of me too. Thank you, sweetie!

Yikes!

noreply@blogger.com (Multi-tasking Mommy) — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 11:00:00 +0000

I had my pre-op appointment with my family doctor yesterday. It was an interesting appointment!

First of all, I learned that he will be assisting in the surgery, which truly did put me at ease. I really like my family doctor! My husband does too, which will help put him slightly at ease too, I hope.

The bunny came to my appointment and assisted the Doc with taking my blood pressure and feeling for the baby. At the end of the appointment, she looked me in the eye, put her hands on my knees and said, "Mommy, you did a really great job with the doctor and you were so brave. Good for you!".

Ok, how cute was that?

My doctor is awesome and thank goodness I like him a lot because if I didn't, I wouldn't be too impressed with him right now. He said two things to me that you just don't say to a pregnant women, let alone a pregnant woman in her 38th week!

He said:
"Now, just be careful as you move around this last week because you are getting quite top heavy and I wouldn't want you to lose your balance and fall."
My response:
"Trust me, I know I'm big and I don't think I have anything to worry about with regards to falling because I'm not physically capable of moving fast enough to fall or to do any harm!"

We both laughed.

Then, as he was feeling my belly trying to figure out how the baby is positioned (he thinks the baby isn't fully head down and is lying on his side, which would make sense as to why I am feeling so uncomfortable), he says:
"Are you sure there is only one baby in there?"

Ok, as a medical professional, you don't say something like that--and so casually!

My response to everyone (and that would be quite a few people these days) is always the same:
"Yes, I'm pretty sure. If there is a second baby, they are pretty good at hiding in three different ultrasounds".

Thank goodness I am pretty confident that there is only one baby otherwise I think I'd be freaking out and needing to go on anti-anxiety meds to help me through the next week.

Speaking of meds, my doc has given me the green light to take a gravol the night before my c section. Has anyone else ever been told this is ok? Although I'm totally hyped that I CAN take something to help me sleep/calm down ~~hopefully knock me out~~, I am also a bit leery at the same time.

Ok, so the stories don't stop there! I was sent for bloodwork due to my blood pressure being slightly elevated for the second week in a row and the swelling in my feet and ankles.

When I got to the lab, they informed me that one of the tests wouldn't get results for 10 days. Ok, kind of defeats the purpose, no?! Then, the technician forgot to take as much blood as she needed and she had to poke both arms. Thank goodness I got over my MAJOR needle phobia a few years ago!

The icing on the cake was, when the techie was finished apologizing for having to poke my two arms, she said, "Well, at least I'm not a surgeon, cuz that just wouldn't be good."

Ok, again...she KNEW I was having a c section next week--did she HAVE to say that to me? Argh!

I have a post up over at my Multi-Testing Mommy Blog where I recoomend an amazing and essential maternity product! Go check it out. Please! And I would love a comment to let me know that you were there--not many people have been visiting my Multi-Testing Mommy site lately!

Let Us Not Speak of White Laundry Again!

noreply@blogger.com (Multi-tasking Mommy) — Mon, 22 Sep 2008 10:42:00 +0000

"My Mom dried her bras for years and there never seemed to be a problem!" he said as he came up stairs in a little huff...

I really cannot complain at all because SciFi Dad is always willing ~~apparently with one exception now~~ to help out with laundry. We have been doing it late at night in order to save energy costs, but I've also been slowly having him take over so that he can learn ~~be trained~~ what needs to be hung to dry vs. what can go in the dryer.

So, the other night, I wasn't feeling well (what else is new?) and I went to bed super early. I put the whites load in and asked SciFi Dad to put it in the dryer when the cycle had finished. The ONLY two exceptions were my bras and the bunny's ballet tights. Simple enough, right?! Well, I guess not when there are something like 7 or 8 bras in the load and poor SciFi Dad had to literally sift through the entire load piece by piece in order to ensure that he didn't miss a single bra.

Is it a pain? Yes!

Does hanging bras to dry make them last longer? Yes!

Does hanging bras to dry ensure they won't shrink? Yes!

Anyhow, it was a bit funny when he came upstairs all flustered saying, "Let us not speak of me doing the white laundry again when I have to hang your bras! My mother dried her bras for years and they seemed to last just fine."

Ok, that was your mother, dear. I'm not drying my bras! And that is that. I've come around and will now dry my other undergarments, just not my bras. I draw a line! At least I'm not hand washing them like recommended.

What about you, dear female readers? Do you hand wash or machine wash your bras? Do you hang them to dry or put them in the dryer? Am I the only nutcase? Please tell me I'm not!

New Post up...

noreply@blogger.com (Multi-tasking Mommy) — Sat, 20 Sep 2008 13:13:00 +0000

I've got a new post up over at Babies Online called Preparing for a new baby: Involving Your Child.

You may also be interested in reading Preparing for a new baby: Parents and Caregivers.

Four Mommy Essentials for Me

noreply@blogger.com (Multi-tasking Mommy) — Fri, 19 Sep 2008 10:35:00 +0000

This post is really and truly meant to be serious, but some of you may get a good giggle out of it!

I was asked what modern day conveniences I can't live without.

Here is my current shortlist:

Pay at the Pump

I remember back to when I was a Nanny one summer during university and I had to unload the one little guy from the car to pay at the gas station (the other two boys--all under 5 were at camp), what a pain that was! AND it was summer, I can only imagine what it was like in the winter OR if you had a sleeping baby! Thank goodness for pay at the pump now!

My Bella Band

Now, some of you may not think that this is a modern day convenience, but for me, it keeps my pants from falling down, so it's a convenience for me, ok?!? I was showing by 8 weeks during this pregnancy which meant that I was into maternity pants really early. I discovered the Bella Band and used it for a good couple of months. Just when I thought that I was done with it, all of my pants became too small (as my tummy is so huge) and none of my pants will stay up, so back I am on the Bella Band kick and am so very thankful for this product, every minute of every day! I just can't live without it right now.

Starbucks Stainless Steel coffee mug

It's no secret that I love my coffee (although most days I'm brewing half regular, half decaf)! However, between my morning computer time and attending to my daughter, my coffee seems to be getting cold way too quick! Enter: my amazing leak proof Starbucks Stainless Steel coffee mug. I love it! It keeps my coffee hot for hours, although it never lasts that long AND I don't worry about it being bumped over and spilling or worse, burning!

Hairdryer diffuser

These days, my hands and arms are asleep/tingly/in pain more often than not. This makes doing my hair almost impossible. I am very thankful for my hairdryer diffuser and the fact that I have curly hair. It's my lazy (well, ok there are lazier ways that I have too--like leaving it wet and putting it in a clip) to "do" my hair and I am so thankful that I can do it this way.

This post has been written as part of a Blog Blast from Parent Bloggers Network. They recommend trying out Yoplait Kids products, go ahead, give them a try!

I have another post up at Multi-Testing Mommy where I review the amazing List Caddy! As well, stay tuned on Multi-Testing Mommy for a contest where three lucky winners will receive a List Caddy of their own.

My fickle Preschooler...

noreply@blogger.com (Multi-tasking Mommy) — Wed, 17 Sep 2008 16:17:00 +0000

The other night I made a homemade "Beefaroni" recipe by Rose Reisman. I will post the recipe on my MTM blog soon.

As I was making it, the bunny came up to me and asked me what we were having for dinner...here's how the conversation went:

Bunny: "Mommy, what are we having for dinner tonight? What are you making?"
Me: "I'm making a yummy dinner called Beefaroni."
Bunny: "Oh, well...I don't like Beefaroni."
Me: "Hmmm...that's interesting considering you've never had it."
Bunny: "What is in it?"
Me: "Pasta, beef, cheese sauce--all yummy things that you love."
Bunny: "Oh. I love pasta and beef and cheese."
Me: "Yes, I know you do, that is why I am making this casserole."
Bunny: "I'll try just one bite."
Me: "Oh, good!"

At the dinner table, the bunny took one bite and said, "Mommy, this is the best dinner I've ever had. I LOVE Beefaroni". The little stinker! She typically doesn't like casseroles. She likes everything separated, but we are trying really hard to show her that if the casserole has all ingredients that she loves, she will more than likely enjoy the casserole. The trouble comes when she asks if there are onions in it. Do I lie?!

Widening Wednesday Week 37

noreply@blogger.com (Multi-tasking Mommy) — Wed, 17 Sep 2008 11:12:00 +0000

Here's my weekly photo for those of you who don't want to wait for the slideshow:

I went to my OB yesterday. I'm measuring at 41 weeks and on track for a 9 pound PLUS baby. She sent me for blood work, as my blood pressure was elevated and I've been swelling quite a bit in the past week. I'll find out if there is anything to be concerned about this morning.

We're ready! The countdown is on!!!

Full Moon and the Kids are Howling...

noreply@blogger.com (Multi-tasking Mommy) — Tue, 16 Sep 2008 10:57:00 +0000

I never used to believe any stories about it being a "full moon" until I became a teacher. Now that I am a parent, I believe it even more.

It was a full moon last night, at least from what I could tell from looking at it. It totally explains why the bunny was SO not herself all.day.long! She screamed. She cried. She huffed. She puffed. She flat out said no to me many times (something, believe it or not, she doesn't do often). It was a down right horrible day for us.

Let's blame it on the moon and cross our fingers that today is a new and better day!

I go to the OB again today...let's hope she doesn't send me to the hospital again ;) Wish me luck!

My Big Girl! She did it!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Multi-tasking Mommy) — Sun, 14 Sep 2008 12:21:00 +0000

So, on Friday, I wrote a post all about the bunny's first sleepover away from home and from Mommy and Daddy.

On the actual day, I was feeling more excited for her than upset or nervous. She was so excited and so happy to be going to her grandparents' house, asking what seemed like every two minutes when it would be time to go.

When we got there, she proudly went into their house, took off her shoes and tried to get rid of us before we even had a chance to even say hello! It was great.

That was step one. Not the step that I was most worried about; bedtime.

We got an update phone call after dinner to let us know that she enjoyed making pizzas for dinner and ate most of her dinner really well, including the chocolate ice cream and peaches (are they nuts feeding her chocolate before bed?!?). Of course, when my cell phone rang, my stomach sank, but my Mom immediately put me at ease.

Then at around 8:30, the phone rang for a second time. Again, my stomach sank. I took a VERY deep breath only to find out that the bunny had gone to bed beautifully at 7:30 (earlier than I had predicted, as she had had a great nap that afternoon) and was sound asleep!

We didn't get a phone call in the night time, so I am only assuming that all went well and they all survived. As I type, she is probably making blueberry pancakes with my Mom and just loving spending time there.

I am happy for her and I truly hope that this is an experience that she will want to do over and over again. It's important now, especially with the baby coming, that she has things that are special and to look forward to that are all about her!

Admittedly, it was nice going out for dinner with SciFi Dad without having to stop our conversation every two seconds or stopping a drink from spilling or reminding the bunny to sit in her seat. I think we actually got a good month's worth of conversation in just over the dinner hour!

I missed the bunny and it was weird not having to close the baby gate at the top of the stairs last night. I missed tucking her in one last time and kissing her little forehead before I went to bed. However, I also enjoyed my alone night with SciFi Dad. It was really nice and relaxing. We had a great time together.

Overall, I think this experience was great for all of us!

Gotta run, I can't feel my fingers anymore. I'm impressed I can type like this. These days, I can't do anything with my hands for more than 30 seconds without losing all feeling! It's not a fun feeling. Here's to hoping it goes away after the baby is born. Not fun holding a baby when you can't feel your hands!

First Sleepover...

noreply@blogger.com (Multi-tasking Mommy) — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 12:00:00 +0000

Fact: The bunny is 3 1/2 years old.
Fact: She is going for her first sleep over away from Mommy and Daddy this weekend.
Fact: I'm excited for her.
Fact: I'm scared sh*tless.
Fact: The hubby and I haven't had an entire night to ourselves in 3 1/2 years.
Fact: I am excited.

Can you tell I have mixed emotions about this?!?

This is LONG overdue. It hasn't happened for a variety of reasons, the biggest one being that the bunny just hasn't been ready, in our opinion. She is very attached, which is a good thing, but it also holds her back from trying new things like a sleepover at her grandparents' house.

wish us luck!

Pregnancy Post Week 36

noreply@blogger.com (Multi-tasking Mommy) — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 11:40:00 +0000

Here is the photo that I wanted to share with you yesterday. I think the baby was trying to push through my tummy, bum first!

Here's my weekly photo:

I think I'll save the video I was going to share for another day!

Yesterday, I had quite the eventful day, pregnancy wise!
I went to my regular OB appointment where I measured 40 weeks and was told, yet again that I'm having a HUGE baby!

She then sent me to the hospital for some tests to make sure that everything was ok. There was a potential that I was leaking amniotic fluid.

I thought I was being smart by parking down the street at another medical building that I had to run into to make an appointment first, that way I wouldn't have to get gouged, yet again, for hospital parking. This was smart, except it set my anxiety levels through the roof when I was lying in the hospital for a few hours, thinking either a) they would tow my car or b) the hospital would make me stay for some reason and I would have to send someone to get the car!

I was at the hospital for a good couple of hours. I was even so lucky to be served lunch ~~an attempt at lunch, but a pregnant woman isn't going to turn down food!~~.

I had an incompetent nursing student care for me yesterday. How come I always get "stuck" with the students? I know they have to learn. I know I was a student once and a fresh teacher, with parents thinking the same thing..."Why are we stuck with the newbie?".

I've had my turn with students, I've done my time!

But this woman just didn't even have regular everyday common sense.

We started off on the wrong foot when she questioned me about my repeat c-section and she actually said to me, "Well, did you even consider a vaginal birth?". Ok, HELLO! You don't say that to someone, PERIOD. Let alone a 36 week along pregnant woman who had a very difficult time making this decision. Argh! It almost sent me over the edge in tears.

She had me dress and undress what seemed like a million times, at which point the head nurse came in and offered me a gown--what a concept!

She didn't unhook me from the non-stress monitor after she had finished the test, leaving a pregnant woman who had to pee lying in the bed for over an hour.

Although it was unprofessional of the head nurse to say anything, she did apologize and lamented over how difficult it is to train nurses to get out of their task focused minds and think of the patient first.

There were a few more little "issues", but unfortunately, foggy and tired preggo brain here can't remember them. I should have written this post while it was fresh in my mind yesterday.

Anyhow, long and short is that everything is fine. I'm not dilated. I'm not leaking and the baby is very active and happy.

Here's to another 3 weeks!

September 11th will never be forgotten. My thoughts go out to all of those who were directly affected!

Widening Wednesday Week 36

noreply@blogger.com (Multi-tasking Mommy) — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 11:34:00 +0000

I'm afraid to say that we forgot to take my photo last night, so there is no slide show for you to see.

I don't know how many people come here on Wednesdays and expect to see the slide show, but if you are one of them, I am sorry!

We got carried away playing in our newly cleaned out and de-cluttered basement last night before bedtime!

Last night, I only got up to go pee twice, can you believe it? I actually slept last night. You just don't know how excited I am about this! I feel great this morning.

I have another OB appointment today. I'm hoping she can calm my fears and tell me that I'm not leaking amniotic fluid! I'll keep you posted....

I wanted to leave you with a photo and video, but Photobucket seems to be crashing my computer this morning...maybe I'll get a chance later on! Sorry, folks!

My Little Ballerina

noreply@blogger.com (Multi-tasking Mommy) — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 11:08:00 +0000

Last year, we enrolled the bunny in ballet class. She was so excited to go, but we certainly had our challenges! Read all about them if you are interested:
My Little Girl is Growing Up, Maybe to be a Ballerina
Prima Ballerina
Some More Ballerina Cuteness and a Few Crocodile Tears
Blubbering Ballerina Update
One Proud Mommy
Ballet and Babies
Lightbulb Fact and a Ballet Update
Catch Up
Isn't She Just So Cute

WOW! I sure did have a lot to write about when the bunny was taking ballet last year. Her ballet adventure finished at the end of January when her class unfortunately got cancelled, just when we had made major headway!

Ever since the end of January, the bunny has been asking to join a new ballet class, but we decided to hold off until this fall, when hopefully she would be more ready.

We enrolled her in a Saturday morning class, in anticipation of me not being able to take her for the first little while after the baby is born.

SciFi Dad has been practicing his "up do" skills with regards to the bunny's hair and he is almost a master at putting on her ballet shoes. Taking her to the washroom in her whole ballet outfit might be a different story, but let's cross our fingers on that one!

This past Saturday was her first class. She was reluctant to go into the class when the teacher called them in, running back to me with tears welling up in her eyes. The teacher said that "Mommy can come in with you while I do attendance" and though I hadn't banked on going into the class (crossing that imaginary line of no return), I went anyhow.

She stayed in the class the whole time, checking over her shoulder every minute or so to make sure that either I was there or her Daddy was in sight. I ended up "leaving" for the last half and although at first, there was a look of panic, she stayed in and participated really well.

I am truly crossing my fingers that she settles in easier than last year and this will be a milestone for her as far as participating in a class without Mommy goes. I know she can do it and I know she desperately WANTS to do it, we just have to get over that little hump!

Feeling More Accomplished...

noreply@blogger.com (Multi-tasking Mommy) — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 11:21:00 +0000

Had another weekend of doing things to get ready for baby. Each and every day, I am feeling more and more ready for this baby to arrive--for many reasons!

Our basement went from looking full--VERY full--to looking VERY full and completely in disarray due to our "leaking" issues to now actually having an open space (open space was a foreign concept down there) for kids to play, less stuff and being much more organized. I'm still not 100% done, but I'm pretty much done down there until well after the baby is born! What a relief and thanks to my awesome hubby, SciFi Dad for doing all of the hard work!

I am totally in the 1-2 hour wake up groove at night time now. I'm all ready for the nursing baby! I am barely sleeping, but somehow I am managing--by a complete miracle and love and support from the bunny and SciFi Dad!

This cooler weather is very much welcomed by me! SO much more comfortable than last week.

So Much for Instinct...

noreply@blogger.com (Multi-tasking Mommy) — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 11:15:00 +0000

Sometimes, we can be instinctive and sometimes we can just be paranoid. Yesterday, I honestly thought my instincts were right on cue--I truly thought I was going to go into labour. Now, today, I think you should admit me to the looney bin! Obviously my instincts were totally wrong and it was just one of those "bad" pregnancy days.

I felt off from head to toe yesterday. I had more Braxton Hicks than usual, the baby was moving like a little trooper all.day.long (which he usually doesn't do--his active time is night time), I had a headache on and off, I was getting some strange pains in my stomach (nothing major enough to warrant going to the hospital or anything), etc. etc. etc. the list goes on!

I was convinced that I was going to go into labour.

Now, I know I didn't fabricate how I was feeling, but I've got to stop worrying about going into labour early otherwise I think I just might go insane! My poor hubby!

Speaking of the hubby, check out my MTM blog today as he wrote a guest post over there including an amazing new recipe.

I also have a new review post up over at Multi-Testing Mommy about School Zone Workbooks for preschoolers!

Fears

noreply@blogger.com (Multi-tasking Mommy) — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 10:56:00 +0000

What is your greatest fear?

What are your childrens' fears?

The bunny seems to be developing a few. Currently, her top two would definitely be her being in a room by herself (meaning without Mom and/or Dad) and the door being closed and going to the dentist.

Do you find that you are hard on yourself as a parent? I know I am. As parents, we all try our best and as long as we know we are trying our best and doing what we know how, that is all that matters, right?

You see, I feel partially responsible for the bunny's fears.

The dentist one because I feel like I took her before she was ready. Or is anyone ever really "ready" to visit the dentist? I took her at two years old. She seemed to be fine, until we got in the room and then all he** broke loose. I took her again at three and all was fine again until they tried to take an x ray when all he** broke loose again. I took her again yesterday and although all he** didn't break loose, it was still a definite struggle.

I wonder, is she having trouble with the dentist because that is in her nature and she is just unsure about many new experiences in life or does it have to do with her past experiences? I will never know, I realize this. All we can do is continue to do what we are doing--playing dentist, reading books about the dentist, talking about the dentist and brining her with us to our appointments.

The door situation stems back, in my mind, to the time that she moved out of her crib to her mattress on the floor. It was very important to me, for a number of reasons that we teach her right from the start to stay in her room and that if she needed us, she could call us instead of coming out to find us. I am happy with this decision and the efforts that we made in order to put this rule in place, however that first night was horrible! We gave her many chances. We put up a gate on her door to keep her in her room and she climbed right over it. Finally, I threatened to close the door. It came down to having to follow through with my threat and she wasn't very happy. I'm sure she did feel trapped. I cried. It wasn't fun.

But, it only took one night!

Now, does she stay in her room?
Yes!
Do I regret what I did?
No.

However, I still wonder, in the back of my head, if it was me that has caused this subconscious fear in her with regards to being abandoned and doors closing. Again, I will never know and I shouldn't beat myself up over it because at the time, I did what I felt was best. It doesn't make it any easier though!

I've got a new post up at my Multi-Tasking Mommy Blog regarding recipes.

Widening Wednesday Week 35

noreply@blogger.com (Multi-tasking Mommy) — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 10:45:00 +0000

Gosh, I wish I had something new to report. Props to those women who write pregnancy blogs and can add something new each day. I feel like my pregnancy news has boiled down to a few topics: no sleep, feeling huge, carpal tunnel, pants aren't fitting anymore, feeling like crap and just about ready to say "Ok, baby....anytime"!

Teenage Poetry

noreply@blogger.com (Multi-tasking Mommy) — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 10:56:00 +0000

Happy back to school to all of your kids and all of you teachers out there! And happy first day of school to all of the little tykes that are starting upon their first experience in school. I look forward to reading parent stories about their child's first day of Kindergarten as next year, that will be ME! YIKES!!!!

Hmmmm...maybe that's why I didn't sleep last night. When I was teaching, I was always up WIDE AWAKE all night long the night before school. Last night, I was up almost all night long for different reasons, but I won't deny that I was thinking about next year when the bunny will be going to school for the first time.

A while back, SciFi Dad posted an old poem of his that he had written.

Last week, I was rummaging through boxes in the basement and came across this poem. I thought I would share it with you. I believe I was in grade eight or nine when I wrote this:

I Am

I am me
I wonder why life is so confusing
I hear all about it
I see it happen every day
I want it to stop
I am me

I pretend to always enjoy life
I feel somewhat uncomfortable
I touch to all my friends' hearts
I worry if it will ever happen
I cry once in a while
I am me

I understand why people are like this
I say try not to be
I dream that someday life will be perfect
I try to make it happen
I am me

If anyone has any guesses as to what exactly I was writing about here, I would love to hear them. I cannot remember what inspired me to write this or what I was writing about. I have some ideas, but would love to hear yours first :)