Pretty Simple Things

Mila's Birth Story

2013-01-31T09:05:00.004-08:00

The day of Mila's birth was one of the most intense and emotional days I have ever experienced. It was also the best day of my entire life and I wouldn't change anything that happened. I get so emotional and teary when I think about it and it's going to be hard to write this down, but I wanted to share it before I forgot any of the details.

It started out on Wednesday the 23rd of January. I woke up at 3:30 am with contractions that were lasting about 30 seconds and coming every 5-7 minutes. They were uncomfortable but totally manageable. I was just so excited to finally be in labor (since I was already 6 days past my due date), that I did not even notice the pain. I just felt so much joy! I put in my hypnobirthing CD and relaxed through the contractions. Meanwhile, I had already called my midwife and told her to expect another call once the contractions started to last longer.

Well, that never happened. I was still getting contractions the whole day but they would spread out to ten minutes, then get closer to five minutes, and then to two minutes apart, and then back to ten. It was so frustrating because they seemed to constantly pick up and then slow down the whole day. I kept my hopes up and continued to relax and breathe through the contractions, thinking that something would surely pick up in the night.

The contractions spaced out a lot Thursday night and throughout Thursday morning. In a way, I was grateful because I was able to get a little rest that night, but I was still frustrated that nothing was happening. Luckily, my Mom works in labor and delivery at the hospital so she checked me and I was about 4cm at this point. It seemed like my body had done much more work than that but instead of getting mad, I tried to stay positive. My midwife told me to take advantage of the contractions being so spread out and to just rest on Thursday. I wish I would have taken her advice. Instead, we walked the whole day to try and get the contractions to pick up. Unfortunately this didn't work. I went to bed that night losing more hope, but thankful I could get a little rest before the morning.
Well, I didn't get any rest. The contractions started to come hard that night and I was up every 6 minutes for about 45 seconds to a minute. At this point, they were becoming more intense and I could not relax through them. There was also no way in hell that I could lay down through them so I slept on the floor at the end of my bed with my Mom lying on the edge of the bed. Every time I would get a contraction, I would get on my hands and knees and rock my lower torso while my Mom rubbed and put pressure on my back. I did not know it at the time, but I was experiencing back labor. I never made a noise, just continued to focus on my breathing while rocking my hips. The next morning I was totally exhausted and still only about 5-6 centimeters dilated. My midwife came over in the morning to break my water to get things going. If nothing happened soon, I was going to die of exhaustion!
Before she broke my water, I broke down in tears. I was scared but happy and relieved at the same time. I had so many emotions inside of me and since I was already 6cm, I knew that after she broke my water that Mila would be here soon. Maybe even before lunch time! I was ready for it. Ready for the intensity to pick up, even though it felt that they could not get more intense. Boy, was I so wrong!
She broke my water at 10:30am Friday morning. It was such a weird feeling, like I was peeing my pants but could not control it! My attitude changed at that moment. Adrenaline kicked in and I was ready for anything that came. I just wanted to see my precious baby. I had waited so long!
At first, the contractions were the same as they had been. We blew up the birthing tub to get ready because I had planned on birthing her in the water. I walked up and down the stairs waiting for the tub to fill up. As soon as I got into the water, the most intense part of my labor began. I started to moan, something I was not expecting, but somehow it helped with the pain. My back was killing me and I could not focus anymore. There were so many people in the room and I was getting so frustrated with the talking. I asked everyone to leave except for my mother, Simeon, and the midwives. It helped a little bit but it was still very hard to focus. I kept moving my hips and body with the contractions. It's so weird to think about, but my body knew exactly what it was doing. Moving my hips just came so natural. It's what I needed to do, and I am convinced that that is what made her come through my birth canal, since we figured out that she was coming in crooked. I stayed at 7-8cm for six (yes, SIX) excruciating hours. The midwives tried so many tricks to try and flip her, since she was laying in an awkward position. This is what was preventing her from coming down through my birth canal and why I was not dilating further.

Finally, I broke down in tears and told the midwives that I could not do it anymore and that I needed to be transferred to the hospital. Had it not been for the exhaustion and lack of sleep, I would have tried to wait, but I was feeling so weak and the pain was consuming my body. I did not even feel like I was in the room anymore. I felt as if I was outside of my body and I could not focus anymore. The pain and exhaustion was too much to handle. She was not coming down and I felt that I could not continue for much longer.
I told the midwives that I was sorry. For some reason I felt bad not being able to birth my own baby. I had not planned it this way! I did not want drugs. I did not want the sterile feeling of being in a hospital with people yelling for you to "PUSH!", and I certainly did not want to recover in a hospital for two days. I wanted to be where I was most comfortable. Unfortunately, you can't plan how your birth experience will be. I was not expecting it to be anything like this but I knew that the epidural was exactly what I needed. At least so I could get a little bit of rest!
We left for the hospital at around 6pm. We decided to go to the hospital that my Mom works at because she was confident that the doctor would not pull any tricks on me since she knew him. Unfortunately, the hospital was 30 minutes away, but I am so glad we made the decision. The ride there was strange. Simeon was driving as fast as he could, but there was traffic. The contractions were coming every 1-2 minutes and lasting for a minute. I sat in the back of his car on my Mom's lap. Every time a contraction would come, I would get on all fours and rock my hips while my Mom put pressure on my back. It was the longest car ride of my entire life.
I don't remember much when we got to the hospital. I did not want to speak or look at anyone. I was trying so hard to just concentrate on the contractions. I knew that relief would come soon so I stayed as positive as I could. When I got into the hospital room, they told me that I needed to stay still for the IV and to be hooked up to the monitor. I asked the nurse if I could please sit up on the edge of the bed so that I could at least rock my hips. She let me do this, but I still had to stay completely still while she pricked me with needles. This was the hardest part. Staying still!
Finally, the anesthesiologist came into the room and was ready to give me the epidural. Again, I had to stay completely still while he numbed and stuck me with the needle. I don't know how I stayed still for this part because I was getting contractions the whole time. After about 10 minutes, the pain started to fade and I was back in the room again. I wanted to kiss the anesthesiologist. I told him that he was "my lifesaver" - ha! Although, I did not want the drugs, I do not regret this decision at all. After 15 minutes I was laughing and talking and relaxing. The original idea was to get the epidural so that I could sleep, but after a few hours, the doctor told me that he wanted me to push. I was 10 cm with a small lip of cervix still intact, but he wanted to see how effective the pushing could be. He told me to give him a push and when I did he said, "Okay, that was really good! Let's deliver this baby!". As much as I wanted to sleep, this was the moment I was waiting for. I no longer wanted to relax. Adrenaline kicked in again and I was ready to birth my sweet girl!
They put a mirror on the edge of my bed so that I could see the progress I was making with each push. All I could see was thick little black curls sticking out. My baby was almost here! The doctor told me that we should start pitocin, which made me a little mad. Hello, can you not see the contractions coming every minute on the monitor! I politely declined the pitocin and told him that I wanted my body to do the work. I also told him that I did not want to be cut. I knew that I could push her out on my own and I did want any interference to speed things up.
The pushing was hard, but only because I could not feel what I was doing. This was the worst part about the epidural. I wanted to feel my baby and my body. I desperately wanted the urge to push. Fortunately, once her head started to crown, I could feel so much pressure and I needed to push. It was an amazing feeling, I finally felt like I could do some work! I moaned and made loud noises. I sounded like an animal! I could not control it, but it just felt right. I could not stop pushing either. The doctor told me to relax after a few pushes but it was almost impossible. I just could not stop!

Finally after 2.5 hours of pushing, my little girl came into the world at 11:48pm on January 25, 2013. They placed her on my chest right away and I burst in tears. This was the exact moment I had worked so hard for. All of the pain and exhaustion seemed so far away in that moment. It was the best moment of my life. The feeling was indescribable the first time I saw her face. She was so sweet and little and made the cutest noises. After a minute she let out a big cry and everyone in the room seemed to awaken. After a few minutes, they weighed her. She was 9lb 8oz! No wonder it took so long to push! And she also came direct OP (face up) , which explained the intense feeling in my back.

She latched straight away, and we had lots of skin to skin time. I don't remember much after that. I was so mesmerized by her. I could not stop staring at her sweet features and listening to the sweet sounds she was making. I fell in love. Hard. And I am still falling in love with her everyday. I never thought that my heart had the capacity to hold so much love. She is everything I could have ever hoped for and I thank Simeon everyday for giving me such a sweet gift. She is so worth every ounce of pain I experienced and I would do it a million times over.

Mila

2013-01-29T17:27:00.000-08:00

I am so happy to welcome my little girl:

Mila Alessandra Garcia

Born on January 25, 2013

11:48pm

9lb 8oz; 21 inches long

My heart is complete.

pregnancy blog: 39 weeks

2013-01-13T17:20:00.000-08:00

How far along? 39 weeks + 3 days. She will be here so soon!

Total weight gain/measurements: About 35 pounds still.

Maternity clothes: Still wearing only maternity clothes. I cannot wait to update my wardrobe!

Stretch marks: Still none *crossing fingers*

Sleep: Getting awesome amounts of sleep, besides the constant need to pee. But I'm getting used to that.

Best moment this week: We decided to change from a birth center birth to a home birth so it was exciting to have a home visit this week and organize where everything's going to happen!

Miss anything? Pre-maternity clothes and being able to stand up without pain.

Movement: Yep, still all the time

Food cravings: None really. Still extremely thirsty all of the time.

Anything making you queasy or sick? Nope.

Gender: Girl!

Labor signs: I've had BH contractions but not too many and they are not painful at all. I had a little bit of bloody discharge but that was after my cervical check so I think it was just from that (ugh!). Other than that, I've been having very sharp pains in my cervix and I'm 1cm dilated and 50 % effaced (making progress!)

Symptoms: Just having to pee a lot STILL.

Belly button in or out? I think it's starting to make a tiny appearance! But just barely. It's definitely stretched to its max..its very sore.

Engagement ring on or off? On:)

Happy or moody most of the time: Very happy!

Looking forward to: LABOR!

sage & butternut squash gnocchi

2013-01-02T08:41:00.000-08:00

People, this recipe is amazing! I've made five or six different variations of this dish, and it never gets old. It's sweet, savory, smoky, and tangy all at the same time. I love making it with gnocchi just because it cooks so fast and makes it a little bit heavier, but you could make this with any type of pasta. If you are a goat cheese or butternut squash lover (like I am), then I promise you will love this!

Sage & Butternut Squash Gnocchi
serves: 4

Ingredients:

1 package gnocchi
1/2 large butternut squash, diced
3 smoked bratwurst ( or sausage, or whatever else you like)
1 tsp sage, chopped
1 sml package of goat cheese (or however much you feel appropriate)
Olive oil
Salt and pepper

1. Cook the butternut squash in a large saute pan in olive oil until browned and soft - about 10-15 min on med high heat.
2. Add in the bratwurst until browned.
3. Add the sage and cook for a few minutes.
4. Cook the gnocchi in boiling water according to instructions. I find that once a few start to float to the top, they are done. Drain.
5. Stir the goat cheese into the gnocchi until it is melted. You might need to add a little of the pasta water or some milk to make it thinner.
6. Stir in the squash mixture carefully, so as to not make it too mushy.
7. Garnish with some more sage and enjoy!

LOVE

2012-12-30T09:52:00.002-08:00

via

What a hurtful word those four letters can make sometimes.

Why is it that we always seem to hurt the people that we love the most? I know that everyone says this, but it really is true. We can be so fake and kind to our biggest enemies but we are so open to saying hurtful things to people who we truly care about above anyone else.

Why is it so hard for a human being to just admit love and accept love? Why do we have to be so full of pride and anger that we can't admit something that we feel which represents something so sweet and pure?

Maybe, in that case, it's not really even love at all. It could just be the want to love or feel lust or acceptance from someone that you have already established a strong bond with.

Human beings are the most intelligent life forms created, yet we have the power to hurt people when it's totally unneccessary and meaningless. It just makes us feel better! Look at any other creature on earth; if they love something, they love it unconditionally despite its imperfections. They never fall out of love.

Look at a dog, for example. No matter how much you yell, hit, spit or abuse it, it is always willing to forgive if it feels even the smallest assurance of love.

Why is it so hard for humans to just forgive and be happy? I have so many questions on my mind right now that I wish I knew the answer to. God had a few tricks up his sleeve when he decided to create humans. It must be pretty amusing to watch all of the humans who feel the need to constantly fight and argue for no reason.

I had to get this off of my chest today. I hope everyone has someone who loves them unconditionally no matter what. We all deserve it!

And now I'll leave you with this amazing quote from Bob Marley...

“Only once in your life, I truly believe, you find someone who can completely turn your world around. You tell them things that you’ve never shared with another soul and they absorb everything you say and actually want to hear more. You share hopes for the future, dreams that will never come true, goals that were never achieved and the many disappointments life has thrown at you. When something wonderful happens, you can’t wait to tell them about it, knowing they will share in your excitement. They are not embarrassed to cry with you when you are hurting or laugh with you when you make a fool of yourself. Never do they hurt your feelings or make you feel like you are not good enough, but rather they build you up and show you the things about yourself that make you special and even beautiful. There is never any pressure, jealousy or competition but only a quiet calmness when they are around. You can be yourself and not worry about what they will think of you because they love you for who you are. The things that seem insignificant to most people such as a note, song or walk become invaluable treasures kept safe in your heart to cherish forever. Memories of your childhood come back and are so clear and vivid it’s like being young again. Colours seem brighter and more brilliant. Laughter seems part of daily life where before it was infrequent or didn’t exist at all. A phone call or two during the day helps to get you through a long day’s work and always brings a smile to your face. In their presence, there’s no need for continuous conversation, but you find you’re quite content in just having them nearby. Things that never interested you before become fascinating because you know they are important to this person who is so special to you. You think of this person on every occasion and in everything you do. Simple things bring them to mind like a pale blue sky, gentle wind or even a storm cloud on the horizon. You open your heart knowing that there’s a chance it may be broken one day and in opening your heart, you experience a love and joy that you never dreamed possible. You find that being vulnerable is the only way to allow your heart to feel true pleasure that’s so real it scares you. You find strength in knowing you have a true friend and possibly a soul mate who will remain loyal to the end. Life seems completely different, exciting and worthwhile. Your only hope and security is in knowing that they are a part of your life.”
- Bob Marley

pregnancy blog: 37 weeks

2012-12-28T14:11:00.001-08:00

How far along? 37 weeks! I have a full term baby in my belly:)

Total weight gain/measurements: 35 pounds so far! Holy Moly, I have no clue how I've gained so much, especially since my appetite has decreased so much. I have to remind myself to eat sometimes! But 35 pounds just means baby girl is growing and healthy:)

Maternity clothes: Yes. Still wearing the same blah boring maternity clothes.

Stretch marks: None! WOO! If that changes in the next 3 weeks, I might cry.

Sleep: It's not too bad. Still waking up at least 3 times in the night to pee. And that's not the part that wakes me up..it's the 2 minute struggle to roll this big belly over and stand up off my bed - HA!

Best moment this week: Christmas, ofcourse! I spent some much needed time with my brothers and family. Love them!

Miss anything? Shaving my legs without the struggle. And my appetite.

Movement: Less movement now that there is less room. But she still moves all the time!

Food cravings: Not really. Just extremely thirsty all of the time.

Anything making you queasy or sick? Nope.

Gender: Girl!

Labor signs: I've been having some Braxton Hicks contractions finally! They don't feel painful at all. It just feels like the top of my stomach is tightening and it gets really hard. I went for my 37 week checkup and they said I was not dilated at all, but I was 25% effaced! Not sure if that makes a whole lot of difference at this point but it was still exciting to hear:)

Symptoms: Just having to pee a lot and my heartburn has come back!

Belly button in or out? In!

Engagement ring on or off? On:)

Happy or moody most of the time: Very happy!

Looking forward to: Her arrival. That's all I'm thinking about right now. I just want to hold her in my arms and kiss and cuddle her all day.

pregnancy blog: 31-34 weeks

2012-12-10T14:36:00.001-08:00

34 weeks

I have been slacking on my pregnancy posts. It's been 4 weeks! Here are a few pictures from weeks 31&32.

31 weeks

32 weeks

How far along? 34 weeks + 3 days

Total weight gain/measurements: 30 pounds so far! It still seems like so much to me but I've been feeling great and still eating healthy!

Maternity clothes: Yes. Weirdly though, I can somehow fit into a few non-maternity shorts now. Maybe because she is a lot higher? Idk, but I am happy about it!

Stretch marks: None! And still using Palmer's Cocoa Butter Massage Lotion for Stretch Marks everyday around my belly, sides, and breasts.

Sleep: It was going awesome for the last 3 weeks. Then, starting about 4 nights ago, I could not stop tossing and turning. I never realized how much of a struggle it would become just to turn from one side to the other, but it wakes me up everytime!

Best moment this week: Going shopping with my Mom. We bought the last few things I needed for little M! Now all we have to do is wait. Also, I FINALLY started my hypnobirthing class. It was so interesting and I learned a lot just in the first class. I am so excited to learn more!

Miss anything? Being able to easily shave my legs.

Movement: Less movement now that there is less room. But she still moves all the time!

Food cravings:Anything sweet. And blueberry bagels.

Anything making you queasy or sick? Nope.

Gender: Girl!

Labor signs: None. Phew.

Symptoms: Extremely short of breath. It's become a constant symptom now and sometimes I have to lay down on my left side because I can't catch my breath. Other than that, just the feeling of constantly having to pee and becoming a lot more fatigued.

Belly button in or out? In!

Engagement ring on or off? On:)

Happy or moody most of the time: Very happy!

Looking forward to: FINALLY putting together her nursery!

pregnancy blog: 29 & 30 weeks

2012-11-08T07:19:00.002-08:00

Belly at 29 weeks

Belly at 30 weeks

How far along? Officially 30 weeks! I cannot believe how fast the time has flown. I know these last weeks will probably start to slow down as I get more anxious to meet her!

Total weight gain/measurements: Still around 20 pounds. It fluctuates here and there, some days I eat a good amount and other days I don't have much of an appetite so it goes up and down a few or so pounds each day.

Maternity clothes: Yep! I might need to start buying bigger shirts though (exciting!)

Stretch marks: None still! And still using Palmer's Cocoa Butter Massage Lotion for Stretch Marks everyday around my belly, sides, and breasts.

Sleep: Dear God, how I miss you sleep! Thanks to my crazy overactive bladder and baby laying in uncomfortable positions, I don't get nearly as much sleep as I would like. Guess I better start to get used to it! :)

Best moment this week: Just spending time with Simeon. He is going to be such an amazing Dad and I'm so happy I have someone so loving and supportive. We also got another ultrasound which was amazing! She was sleeping with her faced turned away but the ultrasound tech got her to turn around. She was not too happy about that! It was so cute, she gave us a little grumpy face! Here are a few good shots we got...

cant wait to kiss those little feet!

Miss anything? Just sleep.

Movement: Lots! Love those kicks.

Food cravings: Sweets!

Anything making you queasy or sick? Nope.

Gender: Girl!

Labour signs: None. Phew.

Symptoms: Still sore groin area. I think this is just something that I'm going to have to stick through for the next 10 weeks or so. My midwife told me that a chiropractor might be able to help since it is probably round ligament pain so we will see if that works.

Belly button in or out? In!

Engagement ring on or off? On:)

Happy or moody most of the time: So happy:)

Looking forward to: Moving, my best friend's baby shower (who is due on the same day as I am), my best friend visiting from California and my baby shower next weekend!

belly kicks at 27 weeks

2012-10-29T07:49:00.000-07:00

I just love this feeling.

Pregnancy Blog: 28 weeks

2012-10-26T12:36:00.001-07:00

Taking pictures of yourself (especially in the mirror) is so awkward, but this is the best I got :-p

How far along? 28 weeks

Total weight gain/measurements: 20 pounds so far! I can't believe I've gained so much in so little time but apparently I am still on track! :)

Maternity clothes: Yep, still the same ones and I can't live without them!

Stretch marks: None! And still using Palmer's Cocoa Butter Massage Lotion for Stretch Marks everyday around my belly, sides, and breasts.

Sleep: Sleep isn't too bad except for when I wake up with my arm asleep because I have to sleep on my side. Sometimes she wakes me up with a little kicking frenzy but I don't think that feeling her kicks will ever get old so I actually don't mind at all.

Best moment this week: This week has been extremely boring actually. My highlight was getting these in the mail...

I love them so much! I've been reading that these blankets are awesome for swaddling your baby and that you can never have too many. Plus, I really like these because they are made of bamboo fiber which makes them super soft!

Miss anything? Not really. I kind of wish I could go to Halloween Horror Nights this year, but standing in a line for 3 hours doesn't exactly sound exciting !

Movement: Lots of movement, especially when I am laying on my side. Love feeling those kicks.

Food cravings: Chocolate!

Anything making you queasy or sick? Nope.

Gender: Girl!

Labor signs: None. Phew.

Symptoms: Verrrry sore groin area....STILL! Other than that, just short of breath and I've been getting heartburn a lot more frequently.

Belly button in or out? In!

Engagement ring on or off? On:)

Happy or moody most of the time: Very happy!

Looking forward to: Starting hypnobirthing classes next week! And we get our last ultrasound:)

nursery mood board

2012-10-22T18:06:00.002-07:00

I now understand what it means to "nest" while pregnant. Unfortunately, we have another 25 days living in this apartment before we move to the new house so it's kind of difficult for me. Lately, I've been obsessing over decorating the nursery, so I created this mood board so that I can keep everything organized. I don't like a lot of pink but I added a few accessories because it was starting to look pretty boy-ish without them. My Mom is going to be making the crib bedding and I think it will look perfect with the room. I would love to know what you think!

Sources :

crib
changer

rocker

polka dot pillow

pink stripe pillow

"Love You" nightlight

pear print

crib mobile (obsessed!)

bunny prints

pendant light

whale tissue holder

pink curtains

rug (already purchased from TJMaxx)

Pregnancy Blog: 26 weeks

2012-10-12T20:25:00.004-07:00

How far along? 26 weeks

Total weight gain/measurements: I'm not too sure. This week has been odd for me...I dropped a few pounds for some reason so I've been eating protein like a mad-woman in hopes to bring it back up. Hopefully I'll be back on track next week!

Maternity clothes: Yep, still the same ones as before. I'm kind of getting tired of wearing the same four pairs of pants so I'm thinking a shopping trip is in order really soon.

Stretch marks: None still! And still using Palmer's Cocoa Butter Massage Lotion for Stretch Marks everyday around my belly, sides, and breasts.

Sleep: Ohh, how I miss you, sleep. And sleeping flat on my back :(

Best moment this week: I've been doing a lot of nursery planning this week. We ordered her crib mobile and I can't wait to share it..I am obsessed.

Miss anything? Just sleep,but I can't really blame that totally on the pregnancy..I've been very busy!

Movement: Lots! It seems like she never sleeps. I like it now, but I feel like I might regret saying that later ;)

Food cravings: Blueberry bagels with cream cheese. I think I had 3 in a day. Not good! But I didn't feel so bad when I found out that I lost weight.

Anything making you queasy or sick? Nope.

Gender: Girl!

Labour signs: None. Phew.

Symptoms: Verrrry sore groin area! Thankfully it only lasted a few days but it was not pleasant! Also, I've been feeling a bit lightheaded at times, but nothing too serious.

Belly button in or out? In!

Engagement ring on or off? On:)

Happy or moody most of the time: This week was rough for me emotionally, I'm not going to lie. I've been feeling extremely anxious and stressed lately and have been crying over everything. My mid-wife told me to take "5-HTP" for mood swings so I'm going to definitely start that up again!

Looking forward to: This weekend with Simeon. I haven't spent good quality time with him in over a week and we're going to Miami tomorrow so it should be nice:)

Crockpot Beef Bourguignon

2012-10-06T07:41:00.003-07:00

Ever since I watched the movie, "Julie and Julia", I've wanted to make beef bourguignon. I saw the movie a few years ago and have made this dish three or four times ever since. I've never been much of a beef stew lover, but since there is red wine involved, it makes my mouth water every time I think about it. I got this recipe from "Mastering the Art of French Cooking" by Julia Child but with a few tweaks and made it in the crockpot so that it was so much easier! This dish sounds intimidating but it really is so simple. Hope you enjoy!

Crockpot Beef Bourgignon
Serves: 1 hungry pregnant girl and her fiance who was starving. (normally this would serve 3-4 people)

Ingredients:
6-7 slices of turkey bacon
1 lb lean stew beef, cubed
1 sliced carrot
3/4 sliced onion
1/2 lb. sliced mushrooms
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pepper
1 tsp flour
1/2 bottle of red wine (approx.)
1 beef bouillon cube
1/2 tbl tomato paste
1 clove mashed garlic
1 tsp herbs de provence
Egg noodles or mashed potatoes

1. Brown the turkey bacon in a skillet. Set aside.
2. Dry the beef and brown on all sides in the bacon fat. Set aside.
3. Saute the onions, carrot, and mushrooms until tender and just browned.
4. Put all ingredients into a crockpot and cover with red wine (it may take you more or less than 1/2 bottle, just eye it!). Make sure that the wine just barely covers the meat, you don't want too much.
5. Set the crockpot on low for 7-8 hours or on high for about 5 hours.
6. When it's done, you can either serve it like that or mix it with a tiny bit of flour that's been mashed into soft butter. I did that because I wanted it to be a little thicker.
7. Serve with egg noodles or mashed potatoes and enjoy!

The only thing I would change would be to saute the mushrooms right before the crockpot is done and add them in. This would make them a lot softer, which I like, but this way still tasted awesome and it saved me a little more time!

Pregnancy Blog: 25 weeks

2012-10-04T13:59:00.005-07:00

How far along? 25 weeks

Total weight gain/measurements: 16 pounds! Right now, I'm gaining about a pound a week, and my appetite is definitely increasing!

Maternity clothes: Yep, still the same ones as before.

Stretch marks: None! And still using Palmer's Cocoa Butter Massage Lotion for Stretch Marks everyday around my belly, sides, and breasts.

Sleep: Still using my Snoozer pregnancy pillow every night and sleeping like a baby. The only thing that annoys me is that I have to wake up every night at about 4am to use the restroom and then again at 8am. So I am pretty much awake everyday at 8 which makes me very sleepy throughout the day. I'm not complaining though, it is definitely good practice for what's to come! :)

Best moment this week: There were a few really good moments this week. We went to Miami to visit Simeon's family and it was so nice seeing and spending time with them. Also, his best friend recently had a baby and I had a nice, long cuddle session with him. He is so sweet (pictured below). Also, we found the perfect rocker for her nursery. I can't wait until we are at the new house so we can finally order it! And last but not least, hearing Simeon say, "Seeing you pregnant is the most beautiful thing I've ever experienced." He really knows how to tear me up these days! So sweet.

Miss anything? Nothing right now, I am loving being pregnant, watching my body change and feeling her move around and hiccup!

Movement: Lots! It's now moving my whole belly around, and I can now feel her every time she has the hiccups (which seems to be at least 2-3 times a day! )

Food cravings: None really, I never really craved anything to the point where I needed to have it. But whenever I watch the food network, I always crave what I see there.

Anything making you queasy or sick? Nope, just still feel a little short of breath. I've caught myself taking the occasional really deep breath, because I never feel like I get enough air to fill my lungs. Not sure if that's normal but it doesn't really bother me anymore now that I'm used to it.

Gender: Girl!

Labour signs: None. Phew.

Symptoms: Feeling more fatigued, sore abdomen/crotch still, and appetite is increasing. Oh, and lots of acne this week...gross!

Belly button in or out? In!

Engagement ring on or off? On:)

Happy or moody most of the time: Very happy!

Looking forward to: Our next checkup, and signing the lease for our new house...I am so sick of living in an apartment!

Pregnancy Blog: 24 Weeks

2012-09-27T15:01:00.004-07:00

How far along? 24 weeks

Total weight gain/measurements: 15 pounds! Seems like a lot, considering I still feel like I weigh the same as before I became pregnant. My pre-pregnancy jeans think otherwise:-/

Maternity clothes: Yes! I officially do not fit into any of my old jeans or shorts. Good thing maternity clothes make me feel amazing.

Stretch marks: None! And still using Palmer's Cocoa Butter Massage Lotion for Stretch Marks everyday around my belly, sides, and breasts.

Sleep: I've been getting really good sleep recently, thanks to my Snoozer pregnancy pillow. It really is the best. Sometimes I will wake up in the middle of the night only to realize that Simeon has taken it away from me and is cuddling it! I caught this picture today while he was taking a nap, ha!

Best moment this week: Finally finding a name that we can both agree on! I love it so much. But it will be a secret until January ;)

Miss anything? Smoked salmon. And wine, still. Tonight I am making Beef Bourgignon, so hopefully that will curb my red wine cravings ;)

Movement: Yep, she's still moving around like crazy! And the occasional hiccups make me so happy:)

Food cravings: Peach cobbler, making that tonight actually!

Anything making you queasy or sick? Not queasy, but I still feel so incredibly light-headed and out of breath a lot. Only complaint I can make so far!

Gender: Girl!

Labour signs: None. Phew.

Symptoms: Shortness of breath, sore crotch area (sorry for the visual), and starting to feel a little more fatigued.

Belly button in or out? In!

Engagement ring on or off? On:)

Happy or moody most of the time: Very happy!

Looking forward to: Going to Miami this weekend to see Simeon's family. They are the nicest people on earth. Also, his best friend just had a baby so we are going to visit him as well, I can't wait!

Ohh baby

2012-09-19T09:27:00.002-07:00

This past weekend, I went to a baby expo with my best friend, Paige. She is due on the exact same day as I am: January 17, 2013. Neither pregnancy was planned, but we found out about the same time that we were both pregnant and then about 12 weeks we found out that we were due on the same day! What are the chances? I couldn't be happier to be sharing this experience with her. She is having a boy and I am having a girl. They will definitely be soulmates.

While we were at the baby expo, they were doing ultrasounds for $15. Since I knew that I would probably not be having any other ultrasounds prescribed by my midwife, I had to do it! She was moving around a lot but just would not take her hands away from her face (Paige's boy was doing the exact same). So this is the best picture that we got. Here she is in all of her adorable-ness. I am falling more and more in love with her.

Pregnancy Blog: 22 weeks

2012-09-13T19:50:00.002-07:00

How far along? 22 weeks

Total weight gain/measurements: 13 pounds! I haven't gained any since last week but still feel like I'm eating a lot!

Maternity clothes: Yep:) I always told myself that I would never purchase maternity clothes because I thought they all looked tacky. That was until I tried on a pair of maternity jeans. I don't think I'll ever go back to wearing normal jeans again!

Stretch marks: Still None! And still using Palmer's Cocoa Butter Massage Lotion for Stretch Marks everyday around my belly, sides, and breasts.

Sleep: I've been doing much better about sleeping. Except I've been having the craziest dreams! Two nights ago, I had a dream of my little girl. Sigh.

Best moment this week: People finally noticing that I am pregnant!

Miss anything? Wine. Ooooh how I can't wait until the day I can sit back and have a glass of wine after dinner. The best feeling.

Movement: Yep, she's still moving around like crazy!

Food cravings: Nothing this week. But I seem to be getting a sweet tooth!

Anything making you queasy or sick? Not sick, but I swear I can't catch my breath for anything!

Gender: Girl!

Labour signs: None. Phew.

Symptoms: Shortness of breath, round ligament pain, and my breasts have started to produce milk (sorry if that's too much info! )

Belly button in or out? In!

Engagement ring on or off? On:)

Happy or moody most of the time: Very happy!

Looking forward to: Going to a baby expo this weekend with my best friend who is also pregnant and due on the same day as me. Can't wait!

Pregnancy Blog: 21 weeks

2012-09-06T07:39:00.003-07:00

Sorry for the weird messy hair ;)

How far along? 21 weeks

Total weight gain/measurements: 13 pounds! I started out at 131 and now I am at 144. Seems like a lot but according to this weight gain tracker, I am right on track!

Maternity clothes: Yes! I have two pairs of jeans and two pairs of shorts so far and a few shirts. They are soooo comfy! I think I might wear them even after I deliver ;)

Stretch marks: None! I'm using Palmer's Cocoa Butter Massage Lotion for Stretch Marks everyday around my belly, sides, and breasts and have none to show so far..

Sleep: Recently, I haven't been getting much sleep mostly because my tailbone has been killing me and it hurts to sleep on my back or side so it's hard to find a comfortable position.

Best moment this week: Being able to see her move around in my belly. I started feeling her kick just before 17 weeks but only when I pressed on my belly. Now I can see her every little move:)

Miss anything? The only thing I ever miss is certain foods. I miss eating sushi but I am especially missing smoked salmon. I would kill for a bagel with cream cheese and smoked salmon!

Movement: Yes, lots!

Food cravings: I never really had food cravings except for a few in the first trimester but last night I was craving funfetti cupcakes? I need to stop watching Cupcake Wars on Food Network!

Anything making you queasy or sick? The only thing that's grossed me out has been guacamole. And I usually love it?

Gender: Girl!

Labour signs: None.

Symptoms: Shortness of breath, heartburn, aching tailbone, and still very weird and vivid dreams.

Belly button in or out? In!

Engagement ring on or off? On.

Happy or moody most of the time: Very happy!

Looking forward to: My next appointment. I can't wait to sign up for Hypnobirthing classes!

The Business Of Being Born...

2012-08-30T08:24:00.001-07:00

If you are pregnant or planning on having a baby, you should really watch this film. It's a documentary called "The Business of Being Born" and it's produced by Ricki Lake. It takes a look at how birthing has become in the United States and what is going on in hospitals as opposed to giving birth at home or at a birth center with a midwife.
I decided a long time ago that any children I have, I would either deliver at home or at a birth center, given that I had a normal pregnancy. No pain-killers, no inducing, NO C-SECTION! I know, I know...everybody says that.
I think as a women, it's something that I want to experience completely sober and aware. I want to feel all of the changes and everything that's going on during one of the most important days of my (and my baby's) life.
Now that I am pregnant, I had to convince Simeon that it wasn't some weird thing that only hippies do. Well, that was really tough. Until I made him watch this video with me:)
He went from being totally against having a baby at a birth center to supporting it. And when I say he was totally against it, I mean he gave me no other option but to have our baby at the hospital (not that it was his decision ;) ).
Even if you are planning on giving birth at the hospital, I would definitely recommend watching this video. In no way am I saying that giving birth in the hospital is wrong, I hate when people judge me for making decisions they don't think are right, so I would never judge anyone with their opinion...this is just mine :)

Pregnancy Blog: 20 weeks

2012-08-29T10:06:00.002-07:00

If you haven't guessed by my previous posts, I am expecting a little baby girl in January!

I never pictured myself as a mother, since I've never really wanted kids before, but I'm proud to admit that I am happier than I have ever been. I love feeling her move and bonding with her. She really starts kicking when I am playing music or when Simeon starts talking to her. I love her so much already.

Here she is at 17 weeks..

The most amazing feeling...

2012-08-17T13:31:00.001-07:00

Wild Rice Orzo Salad

2012-07-30T19:11:00.000-07:00

Once upon a time, I had lunch at a restaurant called Brio. I ordered the Eggplant Pomodoro Panini which came with a side of "wild rice salad". I was skeptical of the wild rice salad and kindly asked the waitress if it was tasty or if I should order a side salad instead. She convinced me to order the rice salad and I fell in love. I didn't even finish the panini that I was desperately craving because I wanted to make sure my stomach had enough room to fit the deliciousness that my taste buds were experiencing. Before I finished, I picked through the salad and took note of all of the ingredients so that I wouldn't forget.

Unfortunately, I couldn't find a copycat recipe anywhere on Google so I had to make my own and I have to admit, it is pretty spot on. I think I will make a huge batch of this each week because it is so delicious and healthy Next time I will probably add some chicken and/or feta cheese would go really nice in it as well!

Wild Rice Orzo Salad
Servings: Four

Ingredients

For the salad:
1 cup cooked orzo
I cup cooked wild rice (make sure not to buy "wild rice blend")
1/2 cup diced red pepper
1/2 cup diced yellow pepper
2/3 cup dried cranberries
1/4 cup toasted sliced almonds
1/4 cup chopped green onion
2/3 cup chopped cilantro

For the dressing:
1/2 cup olive oil
3 tblsp lemon juice
1 tblsp minced shallot
2 tsp dijon mustard
1 tsp sugar
zest of one lemon

Directions:
Note: All of the amounts are approximate. I didn't really measure when I made the salad so add more or less as you please.
1. Get a random weirdly dressed Swedish girl to chop all of the ingredients (so that you don't have to).

You might want to use a bigger chopping board..

2. Combine all of the salad ingredients and mix with the dressing.
3. Let it sit for at least an hour so that the flavors mix. Enjoy!

M.I.A.

2012-06-27T19:12:00.002-07:00

Wow. It has been so incredibly long since I last posted on here, I'm not even sure where to start. A lot has been happening in my life recently. Lots of changes, good and bad. Usually when stuff happens in my life, I go MIA for a little while until I can collect myself and be normal again. So as far as stuff that's happened:

1. I found out what it feels like to almost lose the most important person in my life. And why it is so important to say 'I love you' every chance I can get. I love you, Baba.

2. I graduated college. That was a very exciting step in my life and it still feels surreal that I am done with school. Forever. At least until my Dad kicks my butt into shape and makes me start my Masters degree in a few months. Dangit!

3. I got a job at a marketing company. Then quit it. That's all I have to say about that.

4. I discovered what it means to relax and how incredibly amazing it is. And how it also makes me feel like a big fat lump. A big fat happy lump though ;). Ever since I was 16 years old I have held at least one job. Sometimes even two or three, and at one point five jobs. At the same time! What the hell was wrong with me? Anyway, now I have none and it feels ohhhh so good. Needless to say, I'm on the job hunt now because I'm going stir crazy!

5. I made homemade waffles....

6. I fell in love with a Venezuelan. Cool stuff..

That's all the excitement that I have to share for now! xoxo

Persian Spaghetti with Tadig

2012-03-12T15:25:00.002-07:00

When I think of boring dishes, spaghetti is usually one of the first thing that pops in my mind. Like most people, I've had it far too many times in my life. Probably because it's easy, cheap and everyone knows how to make it. There is one exception, though. My step-mom makes the best spaghetti I've ever tried. I could eat bowls of it for a week straight and not get tired of it. It's so awesome, words cannot describe! She makes it the "Persian" way, which is, of course, the best way ;). You can cook it with or without the Tadig, which is basically a crispy crust made at the bottom of the pan with either bread, potatoes or lettuce.

P.S. Sorry for the crappy pictures!

Persian Spaghetti with Tadig

Serves: 3-4

Ingredients:

1 med onion, sliced

1/4 lb lean ground beef

6 oz. tomato paste

1 tsp turmeric

12 oz spaghetti

1 small potato, sliced (or bread/lettuce if you prefer)

1 tsp salt

2/3 cup water

Oil

Directions

1. Cook spaghetti according to box instructions, strain and set aside

2. Put 1 tblsp oil in a saute pan on high heat. When it gets hot, turn the stove down to med-high and add onions. Cook for 3-4 minutes until golden brown.

3. Add ground beef and saute all together while breaking the meat into very small pieces. Add the turmeric and cook for 2 minutes or until meat is brown.

4. Add tomato paste and stir for 1-2 minutes. When you notice the color of the paste changing (brownish color), it is done.

5. Add water and turn the temperature to high heat. When it starts to boil, turn the heat to low and add salt.

6. Let cook for 15 minutes and stir 2-3 times. When the water is evaporated turn off the heat.

7.(To make the tadig; you can skip this part if you want): In a sauce pan (big enough to fit pasta/sauce), add 3 tblsp oil and heat on stove for 45 seconds on high heat.

8. Remove pan from heat and add 1 layer of sliced potatoes (enough to cover the bottom of the pan).

9. Add a bit of pasta on top and then a layer of the meat sauce. Keep layering until you've used all of the pasta/sauce.

10. Drizzle 2-3 tblsp oil on top of the spaghetti and cover.

11. Place back on the stove on high heat for 45 seconds (if you are making the tadig) and then decrease heat to low and cook for 45 minutes.

12. After 45 minutes, stir the spaghetti and serve! If you made the Tadig, scrape the potatoes from the bottom of the pan and serve on the side. Don't eat the hard spaghetti at the bottom, unless you're into that.

13. Enjoy!

Chicago

2012-03-08T10:43:00.000-08:00

Finally adding pictures from Chicago! Next up, Puerto Rico! ;)