Merry Christmas!

We've been MIA lately, I'm sorry. I take my two finals next week, so after Friday - I will be back in commission. I will probably even drink a beer to celebrate; I'm so pumped! I just hope they allow me to come back next semester...

Just so you know, everything is going well at the H-dub household. Amélie is still adorable and she is learning quickly. Last night she slept for about 6 hours without needing to chow, so that was a great night of sleep. Not only have I been studying and cramming for Contracts, I've learned that breastfeeding is difficult and never take as many laxatives as the doctor prescribes. Seriously, why do people need laxatives? I'm guessing my addiction to granola and oatmeal probably works to my benefit, eh?

I am a bit sad that Craig goes back to work tomorrow. I guess we'll have some bonding time, just the girls. That is, in between the studies.

I have to admit that I'm very proud of the Boo lover, she is a nice doggy to her new sister. Plus, she is a poopy diaper radar; if Amélie has anything going on down below - Indie is all about sniffing it out. It's a nice alert before Amélie starts crying out of discomfort. The picture below is proof of the careful eye that Indie keeps on the new baby. I couldn't have a cuter family.

The Daddy RoCKS!

This is a tribute to the best new Daddy ever born!

I've been begging Craig for days to change my banner. I think the new one is amazingly adorable. It totally shows off those delicate little fingers that are constantly being kissed. Craig has such a knack for being creative and fun. I blame it on his being left-handed. I hope Amélie gets his creativity.

Craig has also been waiting on me for the last week or so. In such a way that when I need a glass of water, he's already filling the glass before I ask. When I need my glasses that I left upstairs on the dresser, he's on his way to get them for me. When I realize that I cannot believe I have to take two finals within the next two weeks, he's right next to me comforting me and telling me that it'll work out. I hope Amélie gets his caring and genuine personality.

Amélie secretly told me this morning (when Craig took a couple hours to go snowboarding) that she was so happy to have a daddy that is teaching her how to smile, laugh, and be happy. I'm a bit stunned at how Craig has jumped into the role of daddy... immediately. As soon as the nurse placed her in the warming basket in the hospital, he was by her side helping to bathe her, swaddle her, and tell her stories about how the world works. I hope Amélie gets his positive and smart outlook on life.

When I first saw Craig change Amélie's diaper, I giggled at the care he took with each movement. He slowly unbuttoned her onesie, softly lifted her legs, delicately untaped the diaper, and carefully replaced it with a new one. Now, after I've come to watch him with Amélie over the last week - I realize that he is just that delicate in all respects. I've had a realization that this is Craig's nature; there is no haste or hurry. He is calm, respectful, and such a great role model. I hope Amélie and I inherit these most important values and traits.

I owe SO much to my baby's daddy. He is amazing and I love him more than I thought I ever could... Seriously, how did I get to be the luckiest girl? I have the nicest, sweetest, smartest, most caring, handsome, and creative beau... ALL in a package carrying such a fine toosh?! Not to repeat myself, but I hope Amélie gets his fine toosh too.

New look coming soon...

So, it's been three days and about 8 hours for little Miss Amélie. Isn't it crazy that you can measure someone's life by hours or days?!

The last 48 hours have been really rough on us all. It's not the typical newborn fussy baby syndrome but rather Amélie had a little eye infection. We set up an appointment at Children's Clinic and they ended up feeling her infection was concerning being she was only 48 hours old. Well, they admitted her in the NICU on Friday morning at Children's Hospital and here we sit. Apparently, all the labs and tests are turning out A-okay and she is on antibiotics. We can tell she is feeling much-much-much better. As long as the eye cultures remain the way they are, it seems we'll be bringing her home from the hospital (repeat big event!) tomorrow, Sunday.

PHEW, this hospital stuff has gotten old. It will have been more than a week in hospitals when Sunday arrives and we'll be thrilled to go home and be "normal" again. In the meantime, let's talk about good news. I noticed that many are asking how much she weighs, height, eye color, etc. Here are the det's:

When she was born: 7 lbs 6.8 oz, 21 inches, dark-dark blue eyes, very calm temperament, and perfect rosy skin.
Today: 7 lbs, 21 inches, lighter blue eyes, calm moving towards a more composed and mature temperament, and of course, perfect rosy skin.

In case you haven't seen this one yet, it's one of my favorites. We'll update you early next week on her adventures in the west side of St. Paul once we ditch these hospitals!

We Made a Human!?!

Amélie T-W made her first appearance last night at 3:42am and was warmly received by two happy parents and a team of doctors, nurses, and family. The parents are taking the day off to catch up on rest. More details to follow.

Click on the photo for more pictures..



Thanks for everyone's support!

Dec 11, 2007

Quick update again..



Jill's water finally broke! Actually, seeping is a more accurate word. She's really showing her mental toughness, as the most recent contractions have been the strongest yet. Seems like visualizing our dog running through the yard is finding her comfort.

At this point the doctors feel that the next course of action will completely depend on the events in the next several hours. Their decision can't come soon enough for Jill.

Tick Tock Tick Tock...

Craig here. I'm updating from the Maplewood McDonald's since it would seem that the rooms at St John's Hospital do not come equipped with wi-fi internet, nor quarter-pounders with cheese.

It's been nearly 24 hours since we first checked in and settled into our room in the maternity ward. Last night the nurses applied various gel treatments and other techniques in an effort to promote dilation and break our baby out of confinement and onto planet Earth. It wasn't a very comfortable night for any of us. I cocooned myself in a pair of sheets and claimed space on a short couch, while Jill struggled with the tangle of monitoring equipment and midnight bathroom breaks. The nurse was kind enough to comment on Jill's earrings, explaining that they closely resemble a freshly expelled placenta [not kidding].

This morning the doctors upped the regimen and implemented a hearty dose of Pitocin via Jill's first I.V. drip. So far, it appears to be encouraging contractions, though at this stage the strength of each cramp is decidedly weaker than we had hoped. There is talk about sending her home to sleep it off, with the possibility of returning Wednesday or Thursday for another try. Until a decision is made, my baby's mamma has buried herself in law books in anticipation of Saturday's final at school.

More to come.. most likely around lunch or dinnertime, and during McDonald's normal operating hours.

Who's in charge here?!

I've done it. It looks like little Bho is an independent thinker already. I guess my wish of having a strong girl who can make her own decisions is coming true! It is all starting with her desire to choose her birth day. Well, the doctor told me today that things are definitely progressing but she must really like it in there cause she needs to start the inducing procedure this Saturday.

Just so you know, I will be hanging out at St. John's Hospital all weekend. Lots of fun to see sick people complaining all around me, aRGh! I have three appt's scheduled over the two days and my doctor expects Bho to arrive on Monday, the 10th. So, whomever bet the 10th was the date - you're on the same wavelength as my OB.

Oh, and for those of you who know I am stressing about taking my law finals. I am going to get my Civil Pro exam over with on Friday at noon. I'm so pumped that they're allowing me to do it early. This is the delight of a small school, I suppose. It took a whole 30 min's to figure out the details. The other exams will just have to be delayed a bit. I'm happy because it just didn't feel right to study criminal behavior/law while feeling overly hormonal.

Speaking of hormonal, isn't this the cutest little baby otter? I bet Bho has a slight resemblance (minus the fur). I hope Indie likes water creature-looking babies.

Kewwwwt...

Thank you to the grandpas for putting the crib together! Thank you granny Williams (she wants to be called that folks...) for the beautiful bedding! Thank you Craig for putting the bookshelf together, wall decal on the wall, and blinds on the windows! Thank you Bwie for Rody!

Now, I sit and wait to thank Bho for giving me the easiest labor (aka, eruption) this week. Here is a preview of one side of the room. It's a bit bare - before we moved in the chair, lamp, books, and junk...
We don't plan on leaving Bho's daddy ear in the lower right corner. That was put there for pure effect.

Happy Friday!

Let the good times roll. Today is my first day of maternity leave. Unfortunately, it is quarter-end at work (sorry to my lovely coworkers) and my doctor thinks that stress will make my blood pressure boil overcooking the Bho. My opinion is if that means it will make Bho "erupt" then let's go for it! However, being that I have caught some funky virus (thank you Craig & the flu shot) along with feeling major preggers - I'm home with the Boo, enjoying her company... starting today!

I also had a dr. appt this morning; she said she did some sort of stripping, it wasn't good for me... but to each their own. She actually "stripped membranes," which I suppose helps to move things along. The rest was good news, she won't let me go over one week from the official due date of December 3rd (total BS, imo, since it was once 11/28 then 12/01) but she is the MD. I'm going back next Wednesday to have some lovely cream induction, if nothing has "erupted" yet. Too much information, I'm sure...

Anyways, today will consist of preparing for study group tomorrow and Sunday. Craig
is researching improper children's books - what a father figure! Here is a great one that we will teach Bho to read from the womb:

It's a full moon

Are you coming Bho?!

I once predicted tomorrow as the Bho's birth day, but as the day draws near, I have a feeling I might have been wishfully thinking and one week early. She will more than likely be a December baby and not a turkey-day baby. Oh well, sighhhhh... I might just make class next weekend after all, lucky me.

Today was Bwi's baby shower. We ate a TON of sweets and watched Bwi's mom open gifts. He got some awesome stuff, including a fancy Maclaren stroller! Bho is a bit jealous that she will be walking instead of riding since she doesn't have a stroller yet. Actually, Bho will probably just ride the Indie booboo baby around the westside of St. Paul. She might just fit in with all the Mexican cowboys, if she could just train Indie to gallop, naaaaaay, and flick flies with her tail.

I just hope that Indie treats her little sister nicer than her latest teddy, the infamous "legless teddy."

Happy T-day!

Although, I don't like this holiday - I do like the two days off work. I hope everyone has a pleasant & safe dinner tomorrow! No choking on the yams folks!

Oh, and I'm hoping to look as good as this turkey come New Years.

Not typical "Jho"

Have you been to my house lately? If so, feel free to close your browser.

If not, let me summarize... dog & cat fur - the size of baby bunnies - swoosh across the floors with any movement, law books & highlighters are piled two feet high on the coffee table, and diapers/gifts from the baby shower are spread across the arms of chairs displaying either their adorable small size or sweet baby-print. Ohhhhh, and I haven't dusted in months. Seriously.
Remember that long list of "to-do's" covering my duties through December? Well, apparently because I didn't list "keeping tidy" as a priority - I've ignored the completion of this chore. But just so you don't think I'm a slacker, the rest of the list is being checked off, I promise!

I'm totally willing to remain pregnant for another year (just kidding, Bwi's mom) if I can make it through those law exams, because so far, studying and preparing for them is kicking my ass. Although, I'm sure labor will be a piece of cake in comparison... a piece of cake.

Yummmm, a cake sounds so delicious!

Y-a-a-a-w-n

It's past my bedtime. Even though I should be staying up to study for classes (my last weekend of classes), I cannot do it. I'm just too sleepy. I do have enough energy to prove that not only do I have the cutest booboo baby (ehem, Indie)... but my sexy cat is proving her ability to be charming and adorable. I woke up this morning to find the little Goooooooms sleeping in the new Bho carseat.

Does it get any cuter than this?! Actually, it was much cuter when she wasn't giving me a look of disgust. I guess, we're all crabby when being awaken for a photo shoot.

One more exciting event to note; we finally have a sofa! If you haven't heard me complaining: the last two weeks we have sat on two chairs in our living room without a sofa. I felt like Craig & I were an old-married couple sleeping in separate twin beds. It was sadly very unromantic.



However, Craig's nice friend bought the sofa that was driving me insane. Sure, it was from Room & Board and felt really comfy, but my obsessive-compulsive personality just didn't mesh with the faded, black, full of Indie-hair look. I'm so much happier with my modern, tweedy-turquoise sofa. Hip-hip hooray!

The next piece object of adoration will be the crib, which is due to arrive any day. I've resorted to coaxing misc. delivery trucks as they pass me on the highway, "tell your crib-trucker friend to hurry into the Twin Cities with my Bho's crib!"

Newsflash!

Well, I've been major busy knocked-up girl. I have a paper due on Sunday morning, which makes me wonder: who would assign an icky paper due on the day of relaxation & worship?! Only an attorney would do that, I've realized...

Soooo, besides for getting smart I've been gaining weight, playing on facebook, and going to the doctor weekly. Yes, I joined facebook and that is an exciting event in my life. Wowsers, I know.

*Personal information alert!*
Today's doctor appt informed me that my belly finally measures "big enough" at 36 weeks and Bho's head is indeed "down." However, because my cervix is all crooked and in a weird spot (always has been, making gyno appt's suck) she couldn't tell me if I'm dilated. It worries me a bit considering I'm not sure how they're going to tell me if I'm dilated in the hospital either... but whatever, at least Bho is "down" and I'm getting closer to Dec 1st. She also said that it's GREAT NEWS that I have crotch pains when walking because that must mean my body is getting ready; "just stay away from having too much stress" she says. Ha!

Finally, just to show that I'm still keeping up on news. Did you all hear? Jlo confirmed she is indeed pregnant. There has always been a strong connection between Jlo & I (ehem, Jho) and since all my weight gain has gone straight to my ass, could it be any clearer?

No pushing Bho off the diving board!

This both creeps me out and makes me teary-eyed.

This only confirms the fact that Bho will be a swimmer from day one. Okay, probably day 60 or 70, but for realz, watch this video and you'll understand why...

Love connection!

Nothing like an entertaining pregnant-girl photo shoot with a naked "Mother and Child" by Gustav Klimt in the background.

Belly touching belly = love connection for Bho & Bwi.

Check, Check, four more to go

Okay, I'm working hard on checking off items from my countdown (see Oct 15th). The first two are done, four more to go...

Here is proof of #1: the thrilling baby shower. If you weren't there, you missed the spiked punch, strippers, and free money.

As a cover, Bho's granny took a few pics of the more innocent moments. If you want to see the "real action," shoot me a message and I'll forward you the other pics. *wink, wink*

Bho's first swimsuit. I imagine her posing like Cindy Crawford in this one...

Quilting action. If you notice, Shannon next to me had just finished doing about 5 shots and the limbo, so she was taking a break.

Here is proof of #2: baby classes are over! As you can see below, I look more intelligent (I know how to deliver a baby effortlessly, how NOT to shake a baby, and how to install about 50 varieties of carseats). Ohhhh, this picture also shows that I'm close to fulfilling the ever-important #5: producing Bho for the good of the world.

Damn, I'm getting to be a biggy while poor lil Bho looks to have a pinhead causing my belly to stick straight out. Better start preparing your lies, "ooooh, Bho is so errr, umm, unique" and "ooooh, she looks so smart."

Prediction: Hardcore Feminist Bho!

Is it because I know Bho is a girl that I've been "overly feminist" lately (whatever that means...)? Or is it because I'm selfish and feel the need to be treated equally? I'm guessing my parents would probably say it's the latter (newsflash: I am selfish). Hmmmm, but let's not go there - it really doesn't matter.

What does matter is that my little Bho has the chance to do whatever the hell she wants when she grows up. This has been of concern to me lately. If Bho ends up dating boys, she does not have to be stuck doing the laundry or vacuuming because Bwi, or any other similarly aged B's, is too busy watching a game or staying late at work "bringing home the bacon." When a home improvement project is needed like installing a ceiling fan, it'd be nice if she was capable of throwing it up in her spare time. Of course, after she gets back from winning Wimbledon, doctoring children in Africa, and walking down the catwalk in Paris.

Today, as I was perusing The Consumerist, I saw this article about a new spin-off of Home Depot called Her Depot. To me, this is the ultimate embarrassment. Why-oh-why, do we need a specific home improvement store geared towards women? Do they feel it that Home Depot stores are too "manly" or "construction-oriented?" Do women really find it difficult to pick out a nail size or light fixture without drinking an espresso or surrounded by floral-papered walls?

Image by Dean Terry.

I'm sorry, but who thought of this? If a lone female in Home Depot's Corporate Headquarters is getting rich off of an idea to put fabric softener and detergent next to the washing machines/dryers in this store... good for her, but our society is doomed. What a waste.

Personally, I like to feel dirty. I like to help with construction projects. I actually like to garden (not sissy gardening either, I like to dig holes and plant things). Bottomline, I like Menards. Although, as I write their name - it makes me think.

One more thought for the day.

I bought super cool warty pumpkins, squash, etc. for our front porch (I mean, for our neighbors to steal). I'm in love with our house now. Please note how awesome the new railing looks! Thanks to Bho's daddy & grandpa.

Let the countdown begin!

You all probably thought I meant the countdown to Bho, huh? Well, I'm actually talking about a few very important countdowns:

1. the baby shower, 5 days & counting (t-th-thr-thrilling)
2. the final birthing class, next Monday evening (we're delivering the placenta tonight folks)
3. end of classes, four weeks (law school)
4. End of Quarter (last week of November) at work, usually high stress, late nights
5. DUE DATE = BHO! (December 1st - 3rd; but I say November 27th)
6. final exams, 1st week of December (ha!!)

First, the baby shower: I hate the thought of family and close friends staring at me while opening gifts, eating food (I plan to save that tiny bit of room for cake actually), and playing a rousing baby-themed game during my "fatty stage." Don't get me wrong, I'm plenty thankful to have a great family & group of friends... and to get together and appreciate their thrill & kindness re: the plan that Craig & I are having a Bho. However, the timing is just not my preference.

Second, birthing classes. Okay, we learned that my pelvic bone moves, that I will try to squat during delivery, and I am keeping an open mind re: epidural/drugs (I'm against drugs - I learned that from my parents and DARE). You know, a handknit uterus and birthing canal is cool... but did we really have to spend five weeks together for three hours a pop?

Third, my law classes end on November 18th. Although, I do have a make-up class on December 2nd. Hmmm, being that they moved the due date from December 3rd to December 1st - I'm not sure I'll make that class. Hope the prof. doesn't mind my missing class in order to avoid going into labor during a discussion of the Erie Doctrine.

Fourth, end of quarter/last day of November is just plain old poor timing in the scheme of Jho's life. Being that I cannot convince my company or the B.O.D to delay their earnings/GAAP reporting, it seems I might be missing out on the busiest week of the quarter. I just hope that if I do come in to lend a hand - my coworkers are ready to follow my orders of "drive fast, drive fast, drive fast to St. John's hospital."

Five, Bho. Yes, that's inevitable.

Lastly, finals. I'm not sure when I'll get them done or how... but knowing me, I WILL DO IT! At least that is what I've been telling myself over & over again.

So, these are my major event countdowns for the coming month & a half (maybe longer, depending upon those finals & Bho's imposition). Ohhh, and poor Craig is just counting down to the first snow so he can make a few snowboarding trips. As you can tell, that just isn't on my list of priorities. Go figure.

My house rocks!

Yo dudes,

Thanks for the comments! I feel much happier now, which is a good thing for a pregnant chick. Although, I am a little offended that many of you think I look the same as I did before I gained 20 lbs. Hmph!

Okay, dum-dum-dum... here is the "new - old" house! Looking fabulous, eh? Bho's dad & grandpa actually tore off the front porch railing and are building a brand new one. Yay, my boys rule! Bho's dad is also going to be adding a third, burnt-orangish color next Spring probably - just adding to the charm, I'm sure.

Not only did we get the house painted - we bought a crib for the Bho! Yes, she might be sleeping on a mattress and not on the floor with the Boo! However, the next problem is that it takes 6-8 weeks for delivery. Whoops.

It seems that our picky nature has caused a slight issue being that it is now less than 8 weeks until the big due date of 12/03. OH, and she is totally coming sooner, btw. I'll start taking bets on when we think she'll arrive... I'm pulling for a turkey baby. How cool would that be? Maybe we'll have to find a newborn sized pilgrim hat and buckle-shoes?

Bottomline, we're hoping that they build and ship the crib a few days sooner. But no worries though, Bho's dad is really good at putting stuff together quickly and carefully.

If you comment, I will listen

Here is proof suckers. If you read this crappy blog, you should comment or I get too lazy to write. Thank you Tiffy. May your request be granted, here is me as a pale whale.


Oh, and here is the new look for the West Side of St. Paul - looks like Halloween 24/7. Yo, yo, represent.

I'm on a roll...

It's really too bad that I'm knocked up in a major way, cause otherwise I'd be gambling in Vegas due to my winning streak lately. You see, it is really quite innocent... Bho's dad & I have participated in some friendly wagers as of late and I have to say that I'm on hot-streak or Bho's dad really sucks at weighing the odds.

The latest involved the assistance of our friendly childbirth class teacher. She delightfully explained that: "yes indeed, a woman's pelvic bone does adjust or shift during childbirth." Booya Craig - I told you so, I told you so! That boy thought he knew everything about anatomy, apparently. When I tried to explain that it seems evident that the pelvic bone has to shift a little to fit that melon sized nogan - he confidently bet me. Ummm, hello?! See below.

HA! Now, I wish I remembered what I bet him; I'll probably just settle the bet for a bowl of ice cream. I'm so easy.

Just a sidenote, childbirth classes suck - not only are they three hours long (almost as long as one of my law classes) but they involve sitting in a circle with about 20 other crazy couples. Seriously, some are C-r-A-Z-y! There was one woman frantically rubbing her belly the whole three hours like she was Buddha and expecting a wish to be granted. Another was disgustingly eating stinky Fritos and wiping her hands on the bottom of the chair, yuck. You should all feel so lucky that Bho's parents are normal.

Btw, later today or tomorrow I will post an awesome photo of the "shanty." For now, just know that the new paint job is looking fab!

Bits & pieces

This has been a busy, busy week. Not only do I owe huge props to Bho's dad for persuading me to stop watching garbage t.v. during the week and open my law books (as I'm not cramming for three classes - only one!). I also went shopping with Bho's grandmas for crib bedding at the fabric store. I must say that if I had any creative talent in my bones, I think I could go nuts in a fabric store buying beautiful toile, paisley, and antique-looking prints. I guess I'm thankful today in the money & time department that my own mother has no crafty talent that was passed my way. Instead, all of the "craftyness" will definitely spawn from the Dub family. Bho's dad has already hoped outloud for another lefty in the house.

What I do realize about my mother is that one of her truely amazing abilities is to be polite and befriend everyone, which means I'm desperately crossing my fingers that trait is passed down to Bho. If she doesn't get this from my mom, she ain't gonna get it from anyone else in this household (no offense Bho's dad, cause you can be polite & nice when you want... but not to the extent of my mother). So please, please, please may she get some of that sugary sweet Taylor/Eckert blood.

So, I'm off topic. The point is that I'm a busy girl. Even though, I'm a busy girl we have started purchasing items for our "happy monster" themed nursury. Just the other day we finally got our Uglydolls. Yay! This is the extent of my craftyness, a homemade mobile:

Yes, I know, I need an eyebrow wax. Please stop looking at me and notice my little Uglydoll mobile. These dolls are the cutest thing since the Boo was a puppy. Check out the close up:

Dang, so adorable!

I'm hoping that next week I can provide a final pic of the new house paint. I've got to say that it has taken our painters 4 days at about 35 hours of work to scrape only two full sides of our house. Let's hear a "THANK GOD we are not doing this ourselves, HALLELUJAH!" I know my dad is cringing right now thinking that he should be up on the forty foot ladder scrapping every last board to perfection to save us money but the peaceful look on Bho's dad is worth the cost of a professional painter.

WARNING: graphic details/photos

Boohoo, I have rH negative blood. This means that I have to be poked & prodded even more than a normally knocked-up chick. Let me explain...

At 8:30am this morning, I had to pull my pants down and bend over on a table for a nurse to pinch my butt and proceed with a needle of cold juices. Good morning, right?! It was awful and even though I have a pretty pink band-aid on my rear, it is super sore and feels like someone is constantly pinching my ass (not in a good, fun way though). I blame Bho's dad again.

However, even though I may blame Bho's dad quite often - I want to show that I am not the only one experiencing pain in the H-dub household.

*DISCLAIMER: I did not cause this shiner. It was purely from his own strength of the tennis racquet. Nice work dude!

One more thing, I took a shot of the paint sample on our house. Here it is, looking like we slapped it up on the wall without priming, sanding & scraping, or thoroughly covering the puke yellow color. This is a special post for "Anonymous" because of the caring comment they made about my favorite color green. Now, I leave you to analyze the hue of the below green and I'm sure you will let me know what it signifies. Are you a Psych major, by chance?!

Opinions? Suggestions?

Paint the house, register for Bho, OH! and go to law school...

This is the new drama in life.

Bho's dad & I trying to pick out colors to paint our house - so far, this is going to be the new color combo (on a fake, simulated home from Sherwin Williams):

Hopefully, these will be the colors. Although, it is missing the entrance of burnt orange as an accent/trim piece and the green is a bit too green - please picture more of an olive instead. I will also post a picture of our REAL house when it is done and pretty and looking glamourous. I'm very excited to get rid of the yellow/blue vomit colors.

Also, I've been asked to get moving on registering for Bho. I'd like to know how do you register for a Bho?! Seriously, it isn't like registering when getting married. I mean, how do I know what kind of bottles she will like? What kind of storage system will work best to keep the BooBoo from eating poop-filled diapers? Or at the least will keep the Boo from dragging them around the house?! How many swaddling or receiving blankets does a Bho need? Geez, I don't even know the difference between a swaddling and a receiving blanket. Bho is doomed. She will be swaddled in a bathrobe and have diapers wrapped around her head. I blame Bho's dad.

My departing thought, I feel it's fairly tacky to assume that what I pick out is what my Bho would enjoy most... I mean, those with their own B-experience probably knows best and I hope to trust their judgment for the most part. Although, this is daring to admit since Craig & I are the pickiest parents (haters of pink, purple, sparkly princess things) trying to design a modern, simple, and "happy monster-filled" baby room.

Any suggestions on registering?

P.S. If anyone wants to provide me helpful hints on mutuality of obligation, consideration, long-arm statutes and jurisdiction, feel free. I'll get on this chore of baby registry much more quickly once I get a hold of someone's first-year law school outlines. *Hint-hint to those of you silly enough to put yourself through law school.*

Coincidence? I think not...

I just realized that yesterday, LABOR DAY, marked the three month countdown to Bho's birthday... yes, three months from yesterday will our LABOR DAY.

Just thought I'd share.

Planning for the Future!

This whole Bho thing has really gotten Craig & I thinking lately. We've recently started planning for her future and I'm not talking about what she is going to wear home from the hospital or her nursery theme. Actually, I've started receiving reading materials about college saving programs such as 529s, high-school tennis camps all across the world, and now we can even plan for an arranged marriage! Yes, we heard some fabulous news yesterday...

Bwie's mom just found out that she is growing a penis inside of her! Isn't that great news, Bho?! It means you already have yourself a protector, a secret crush, and a best friend of the opposite sex. It means you can "na-naa-na-boo-boo" him when you kick his butt wrestling or when you ace him for the first time with your wicked tennis serve. It also means that we'll be having the private parts conversation, "why does Bwie have a wiener? why can Bwie pee in the backyard with the dogs and I can't?" Oh geez, Bwie's parents might have just made our job trickier if my vision of naked babies and dogs running around our backyards occurs as often as I imagine. Yikes.

Even though Bwie's parents were a bit shocked at first, I think it was all meant to be and it'll end up being a blessing (ahem, no blaming the sperm-providers - right Matty?). Most importantly, Bwie and his mom are in perfect health and everything looked spectacular, which is what matters most.

Got to run, I have a lot of planning to do for the big wedding... dum, dum, da-dum: Bwie + Bho!

An Ode to the Boo

Here is a photo tribute to the Boo. I owe an apology to my Indie. Last night, after returning from a mighty fine night with Bwie's parents - I came home to find my French chocolate bar fully wrapped and preserved under the stove.

I can only assume that Indie smelled the chocolate and instantly adopted her protective, motherly instincts by grabbing the candy bar off the counter and immediately putting it under the stove to prevent her mom from getting fat.

Thank you Indie for saving me the extra pounds. I owe you a kissy.

How coffee saves the lives of others around me...

One morning about two weeks ago, I woke up more tired than when I went to bed. True, it has happened many times before but this morning happened to be when I started law school. How was I supposed to get through eight hours of Legal Methods without any caffeine? Plus, the fact that I now weigh over 150lbs makes me a little depressed. If you don't already know, when I'm depressed, I like to lay on the sofa with the Boo and sleep... oh, and while I'm laying there sleeping I like to eat junk food. So, being that rational human being that I am - I realized by laying on the sofa and eating - this would not accomplish my goal of attaining a JD or staying under 162lbs fully pregnant. Therefore, I splurged - just for my first weekend of law school - I was allowing myself a medium, non-fat, iced latte. Ohhhh, drool.

This morning, the girl at the coffee shop had memorized my order of a medium, non-fat, iced latte. I'm guilty of returning to my caffeine addiction for more than the first weekend of law school. Don't worry, I've received permission from my doctor to drink one latte a day without any harm. My coworkers have thanked me for both the improved mood and increased productivity. Plus, I think Bho enjoys the additional jolt of energy while practicing diving in my belly. I think she might become a fantastic swimmer, call it a hunch. But besides being a swimming pro, I have a feeling she might be very accepting of others.

Someday in the following month when we've started collecting pieces to go with the theme of "nursery," I will post pictures. I'm happy to say that it will not involve porcelain dolls, clowns, or Barney... here is a tiny preview:

Oh, and my Indie Booboo ate another chocolate treat last night. What a little sh*t demon. It was the chocolate bar I had finally realized didn't make me nausous anymore. The one that I hand carried home from Paris back in March. The one that I opened and took ONE bite and left it wrapped in thick Euro paper and tinfoil on the kitchen counter. I sincerely hope she enjoyed the creme brulee milk chocolate delight because when that foil comes out in the backyard, it isn't going to feel very comfortable...

I'm positive! I'm feeling positive!

Well, we had another photoshoot this morning:

Per the Tech, everything looks fabulous (if you knew the details - my insides are now in their propper places) and Bho even threw us a little personality this morning - she stuck her tongue out in a sassy way for her parents. Somehow I don't think this will be the last time but I guess it's pretty adorable, like mother - like daughter.

Ohhh, yeah, the Tech also confirmed that she indeed is a she - all filled with suger and spice. Craig made a very funny joke that the sugar is all ice cream and the spice is from either hot&spicy potato chips or peppered pickles that I've been devouring. Maybe the sticking out of the tongue was a sign from Bho that she needs more variety? Hmmm, I'll just assume not...

Oh, one last thing - we babysat puppy Sadie this past weekend for the Williams. Indie practiced her sharing skills in preparation for Bho. I think the Boo made great progress.

What the heck?!

I think I'm addicted to negative posts... Or maybe it is just too much time spent reading Criminal Law textbooks? At any rate, check this out:

This is fairly strange but creative in a morbidly pessimistic view of the world. It starts as a happy, healthy home and detaches when the parents split. There are even "additions" to add on to each home for their new partners - how PC!

On a positive note, at least we're not leaving anyone out. Now, kids with divorced families can play out their nightmare with a dollhouse version of life. Strange, I don't see where the beloved puppy gets run over by a car? That must be a new release for next year...

This is how America got to be a fatty...

I'm scared... very, very scared. My worry is stemming from the fact that our children today have a preference and demand for McDonald's (fastfood in general, probably) rather than other foods such as ice cream, candy, and gum. I also have a feeling that kids today could repeat jingles or premises of commercials more rapidly than they could their abc's or 123's.

It is very troubling that in a new study, it was shown that our young kids are being brainwashed by a big scary clown, a.k.a Ronald, making them more likely to find any variety of food tasting better if labeled as produced by McDonald's. All I can say is ICK!
The picture below is totally appropriate:




Not to regress, but when I was growing up, it was considered a special treat (like I had just gone to the dentist or did something really outstanding - which I guess didn't happen as much as I thought, hmmmmm?) if my dad took me to McDonald's to get an ice cream cone. Although, sometimes my grandma would secretly buy me a happy meal (I've still kept it from the parents grandma, promise!) and even then I'd only care about the toy and not finish the hamburger or chicken nuggets.

Per the study, children aged 3 to 5 were choosing the McDonald's wrapped carrots (yes, carrots!) as tasting better than the plain wrapped carrots. How sad! Also, I think we need to discard of one of our two televisions in the house. The study found that the more tv's in the house, the more they preferred the McDonald's labeled foods.


Oh poor little Bho, you will NOT have a tv in your bedroom... but I have a feeling we'll have this discussion when you're old enough to beg. I just hope you're begging for a laptop and not a Whopper.

Overprotective family members, you know who you are...

There is a lot to be said about a close knit family especially when a new baby is brought into the mix... I mean, I can assume that my mom will answer the midnight phone calls when I'm stressed out and Bho won't eat, sleep, or shut up. I'm also assuming that my dad will take on the responsibility when we don't feel like paying a stranger to watch Bho during the day while I'm working hard for the money. Was that a subtle enough way of breaking the new nanny job to him?! Finally, I assume all other needs and desires will be fulfilled by Bho's other grandparents!

With those tiny details being clarified, I have to bring up my frustrations with being "over-protected" and throw out a small disclaimer to Bho.

I hereby swear to not only overprotect you, Bho -as I have endured for 29.5 years from my parents - but also affirm that your grandparents will do the same. As you grow older, you will come to appreciate this as a lack of commonsense on my part, quite suffocating and very irritating. However, you will also learn that it is fully out of my control. Please take refuge in the fact that we have supplied you with the cutest dog, Indie boo-boo, to help alleviate those worries; you should feel ever so lucky.

Because this is MY blog, I feel that I deserve to vent. Here are a few fairly reasonable assumptions I've made that thanks to my family are now frustrations.
-It seems logical to me that exercising, for example a pleasurable tennis match would be good for all pregnant women and fetuses alike.
-As is enjoying a nice dallop of frosting on an anniversary cake that I will only get once a year. I'd even stretch this logic to believing that a nice challenge, such as a law school endeavor, is good for the mental stability of any sane person. For those of you that do not understand why I'd be frustrated - talk to my parents, hubby, and friends/coworkers alike - they must supply the explanations because I have no clue.

Phew, with that being lifted off my shoulders - we can all relax and take a look at a few pictures of our awesome weekend in Lutsen. Just a forewarning to those who "overprotect the Jho," (this might be confusing for many, Jho = Jill plus last name abbreviation) I did exercise and I did get sweaty. Let this be proof that I'm alive and Bho is kicking after a long trek up Eagle Mountain to get to the highest point in MN. We're safe and I feel great that I got a bit more toned from all the climbing... God forbid I don't gain the same 100lbs that my mom gained from eating spagetti dinners every night, no offense mom. Love ya!

Notice the chosen photos don't include humans? Well, the photo credits must be given to Craigita for this trip. Evidently, it is known that pregnant women shouldn't control the camera (no offense Eyespy). I've chosen not to scare those few blogs readers with my lack of photogenic skills so I've ceased to post any of my glamour shots from our hikes. Now you have a chance to feel ever so lucky.

For the sap, sappy...

The first year is supposedly the most difficult year of marriage, right? That's what we're told. But dang, if this was our toughest... how much easier is it going to get? I do like a challenge, ya know? Although, not to brag or anything but everything between Craigita and I are pretty swell. I mean, we know our roles fairly well. Craig seems to fix things around the house slowly, while I consistently nag. Craig is always thoughtful, while I rant & rave about the small things. Craig is always paying compliments about how cute I am, while I b*tch about how fat I'm looking. By the way, as it appears below, Bho has been hungry lately. Yikes.

Seriously, though, with our one-year anniversary around the corner I can't help but wonder what is so difficult about the first year of marriage? Besides for the fact that Mother Nature is still proving this week is the hottest of the year and that makes Craig very crabby. Somewhere in my mind, I have a feeling that next year with law school and a Bho, it might be a bit more stressful. Something about baby poo sticking to the pages of my expensive legal books might be frustrating...

Here is to a honeymoon-year start to a marriage and many more to come!

Just a bit of reminscense of the hottest day of 2006 (one hint to a good marriage is to remember your wife looking like this... versus the photo above):

Hopefully, next year during our anniversary weekend when I'm helping my Ana Catalina get married (again, let me emphasize this is the hottest week of MN) I will fit back into my old size. Well, at least I will be able to enjoy the champagne... if I'm fat or not.

I learn, she learns...

If you know me, you know that I'm addicted to learning... or at least schooling. So much so that I'm beginning law school on August 3rd (yikes, we're down to 11 days and counting) part-time, law school, keep in mind. However, as I was reading a case study this afternoon while eating lunch - I felt more kicks and flips in the belly region than normal. That got me thinking, with all this legal learning I'll be experiencing in the next three months while Bho is at her most rapid development stages... will she be picking up legal terms and phrases from the womb? If I'm reading case studies and law books aloud to her during this final trimester, will she be the genius that I'm hoping for? Will her first word be certiorari?

Maybe it's not too far-fetched for me to start purchasing these?


Or maybe it is just the case that I should lay-off the fruit? I've already devoured one whole pineapple, a pint of blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries within two days. Perhaps, this is the cause for the extra kicks? Bho says, "mom, give me something that will stick to my skinny ribs already!" Damn Cub for having two-for-one coupons on fruit... I cannot resist!

Anyone recall...

My disgust for mainstream crib bedding found in Babies R' Us, Target, or any other boring local store? I mean, who wants to spend hundreds of dollars on this?

No offense meant to those parents who adore floral-fyed teddy bears and the fleshtone color peach. However, if I'm spending close to $500 on something new for the nursery why does it have to involve clutter and horrid colors?

In my opinion, all of this temporary bedding is terribly overpriced. However, when it comes to beautiful evidently designers don't limit themselves. I've found something that I'm terribly in love with but will NEVER purchase. I refused to spend this amount of money ($969) on a bedroom set for Craig and I, and we're adults, duh! Why would I spend it on a bumper, sheet, and blanket? But damn, it is beautiful... isn't it?


If anyone feels sorry for Bho and wants to donate this collection (by Serena and Lily; Wren) please let me know. I will be sure to set you up with my shipping address and you'll be the first one to get a thank-you card when Bho learns to read & write.

In the meantime, I'll be shopping at Walmart and perusing the Consignment Shops. If you have any great ideas of where I can find a drop-off site for barely-used rich-person crib bedding, write a comment. Ta-ta.

WARNING!

Pregnancy causes klutziness!

Seriously, I'm a fairly agile walker - I even play sports regularly. I don't usually just trip when walking around the house or fall down unexpectedly. UNTIL last night... when I turned around in the basement after loading the washer (with Indie's poop stained delight) I proceeded to stub my toe so hard on a cinderblock that Craig rushed me to the ER, not by my request mind you, which means it was gory.

*Graphic details* On the way to the ER, I decided to squeeze the puss out of the top "flap" of my toe so that my toe-guts were covered. This meant blood and pussy stuff squirted all over my toe and down my foot, it was quite the delightful site. Even with this limping bloody pregnant lady walking into the ER, we had to sit and wait for three hours until finally I was over it. I told the nurse that I wasn't waiting to go into UrgentCare (they recommended this because the wait was shorter than the typical ER) for something I could wrap up myself. The nurse requested that I write a mean comment to the hospital and Craig recommended we watch "Sicko" when we returned home.

But instead, I elevated and iced my foot like a good girl while watching the Twins lose their second game to the Tigers. COME ON Twins, sheesh! While Bho did flips in my belly the whole time while enjoying a little extra blood flow since my bottom extremities were elevated. This is the plight of a newly clumsy knocked up chick. Let the good times roll.

Skinny is in, right?

So, the first "baby" looking pics are now available of Bho. Okay, I'm totally lying. Bho doesn't look anything like a baby but rather more like a skeltor child. Here she is telling me that she will be a Berkeley Child (ummm, please note the peace sign):

Here is a cute one of her long, super-model legs... taking after mommy already, I see. Heehee.

Hopefully, she "cutens up" and gains a bit of weight. Although, I have a feeling with my addiction to ice cream (no, it's not a craving - I've always eaten a lot of ice cream) she'll be a little fatty.

Puppies, rainbows, and balloons...

How do you break big news? Do you just spill the beans? Or do you let the words linger off your tongue in suspense? Personally, for me, I like to just spill the beans.

Well, normally, that is...

This time around though, it really feels like a momentous event - like something that should involve tears of joy and a truely engaged audience. I mean, knowing if we have a mini-me or a mini-Craig might throw caution into our world. Either way, we'll have a little tennis playing, snowboard rider dude that loves dogs. Now, do I have your attention?

I sure hope so... because we found out that it weighs 12 oz and is about 10 inches long. It has ten fingers and ten toes. It has normal umbicial cord pressure, bladder, stomach, heartbeat (135 bpm - are you trying guess the sex from that? Ha.) and beautiful, long skinny legs already. Most importantly, it doesn't have a cleft palate and the brain looks to be on track re: development.

What better news could I give? I mean, a healthy baby should bring joy into everyones life, right? A couple of hints... I now have someone with whom I can share clothes when I'm out of style, a shopping compatriot, a forever family who will someday bear her own children, and a girl who can overcome all gender stereotypes. I'm amazed that Bho is a SHE! Yep, bring on the terrors of pink and purple and we'll still grow into that tomboy daughter I've always wanted.

Oh dang, this means we'll be footing the wedding bill.

Craig? You'd better start putting away big $ into your retirement... you know the story, here comes daddy's little girl. You'd better not let her down, my daddy hasn't yet.

Tight shirt = many comments

Yes, I should start buying maternity clothes. It's true, I've been too lazy and still wearing my tight shirts though I'm starting to feel a bit trailer with the "beer gut" just starting to stick out. In my fantasy world, I always thought I'd be the cute girl that only gains the basketball belly and stays active the rest of the pregnancy so my ass, thighs and arms looked fit and toned. HA! Just wait, you unpregnant chicks out there... you may have the same dream as I, but when you're exhausted after just sitting in a cubicle for eight hours only to come home to gobble down a bowl of cereal (the only thing not causing heartburn - see my list below) and take a nap for an hour... you will not have the energy to run five miles like you once did. Trust me my unpregnant friends, trust me.

Anyways, the first mention of Bho today was from a stranger at 730am on the elevator. She had a slight nervous look but committed with her, "when are you due?" comment. The rest of the women on the elevator "oooooh'd" and "aaaaaah'd" until I finally got off. Thank God I work on the 3rd floor. *Please no comments that I could take the stairs... the stairwell stinks like sewer and is on the opposite side of the building. Those are definitely unpregnant-friendly resources.*

Quite peculiarly, the next array of comments came at my ex-uncles (he was divorced from my aunt) wake tonight. My extended family felt the need to comment on my belly and guess how far along I am. I forgive them though because I guess someone else's weight gain is always a pleasant conversational distraction.

What lesson did I learn today? I will not be wearing that tight sweater until I'm back down to 130lbs because it will always remind of the day that I truly started "showing" and getting the "pregnant lady oogles." Only four months to go and counting...

Guilty puppy-dog eyes

Each morning, I have my routine as everyone does... but it seems that lately Bho has either made me extra slow, extra sleepy or just plain more sentimental than normal (you'll understand in a minute).

My thrilling mornings go a little like this: Craig gets up before me, wakes me up slowly with his loud getting-dressed noises (who knew looking this good was SO loud?) while I toss and turn and the Boo hogs the bed, I mean, snuggles the pillows. It seems that finally, Craig gives me a kissy and leaves. Normally, I fall asleep for about fifteen minutes while my alarm is blasting than frantically rush into the shower wishing I would have just gotten up when he woke me the first time. After I find some resemblance of professionalism, I usually fly around the kitchen putting together a lunch. I should have realized by now that my mom is damn smart (I don't need any comments from Bho's grandma on this one though). I always thought she was such a nerd or do-goodie by making lunches the night before but today I realize she either also had a hard time getting her butt out of bed or dragging me out of bed.

Well, my final but very important piece of the routine includes cuddling the Boo and giving her my goodbyes. Maybe this is why we have such a neurotic / needy dog? I'm not sure... but I do know that our dog gets majorly depressed when she knows we're leaving.
This morning was no exception. Not only did she give me that puppy-dog look, she refused to kiss me. I tried to hug her extra tight, I even put on minty chapstick, which she normally devours... I even told her that I'd stay home from work and play outside with her. No reaction, no perk, nothing. I left this morning with gut-rot, a pit in my belly that my depressed little Boo would be under the bed crying. However, as I walked down our front steps heading to the bus stop... I heard her sweet, whining bark and I turned like in a dramatic movie and saw her head in the front window shouting, "have a great day mom!"

OH, one more thing... all my coworkers in Sweden or in other fanciful Europeon destinations are off for the next month due to "summer holiday." My good mood just turned into raging jealousy. Maybe Bho is causing moodswings? Does that mean I have to admit to them though?

I've never been commended for my patience...

Which is why we have an appointment next Monday, the 16th, to find out if Bho is a "he" or "she." Alongside the excitement and impatience of finding out if "she" will be my mini me, brings the horrific nightmare of pink flowery pretty pretty princess or blue cowboy/transportation baby themes.

Seriously, why are girls stuck with frills, priss, and glitter when boys get planes, trains, cars, and even horses?! Do I sound jealous? Hell, yeah, I'm jealous. Who prefers to stay back and "play house" with high heels on instead of catching minnows at the local stream?! Not this girl and that is exactly what happened to me in daycare around the 2nd grade.

It is quite unfortunate that my only hesitation in finding out the gender is because I'm worried that our little Bho will replicate the "girlie spoiling" that has occured on the in-law side with their firstborn niece and granddaughter. I don't want to sound ungrateful, but I'm terrified that we'll start receiving an influx of gender specific doo-dads, which is completely the opposite of what I'd like to teach little Bho. Granted, if Bho wants to wear a pink dress... fine! I don't mind, not at all. However, I'd like "her" to know that girls don't only wear princess jewels and need to be shy; girls also get to ride in planes, trains, cars and even horses! Damn, these methods of transportation may even take "her" places... magnificient places in life such as seeing history like the ruins in Athens, fast-paced city life in Shanghai, or even peace in the Middle East (hey, a girl can dream).

Speaking of dreaming, I'm hoping that these sexist societal tendencies that are apparently keeping Babies R' Us in business (have you seen those God-awful crib sets?!) will someday be quieted by parents who are patient enough to wait until their own little Bho makes the exit or refuses to accept that blue = boy, pink = girl.

Wow, I think I've convinced myself; I might just prefer a little "mini-Craig" instead. Yep, I hate pink thaaaat much. Plus, I think I'd prefer to deal with the free standing peeing and not have to explain why "he gets to be shirtless but you have to wear a bra and a shirt" in the summer heat. I'll never have an answer to that one, my poor little Bho.

I LOVE this dress and happy 4th...

Nothing says Happy Independence Day like a Russian/American, Maria Sharapova playing American Venus Williams at Wimbledon, right?!

The significance of this post is due to the great taste of Sharapova:
Can you see the ruffles? OHhhhh, so cute.

I'm totally bummed that Sharapova lost this match to Williams, 6-1, 6-3. You see, Venus' shorts are just not the fashion-inspiration that Maria provided this tournament. I'll be just dying for the US Open to begin in order to check out Sharapova's next outfit and claim that I like her mental toughness on the court just as much as those outfits.

I can't wait to get rid of Bho (literally, from my fat gut) so I can wear cute tennis clothes again. I've resorted to my largest drawstring shorts and old tee's instead of cute skirts and tanks. Oh well, they'll be waiting for me at the bottom of my drawer for next Spring.

Quite applicable...

Recently, I've found myself hurriedly rushing to the restroom wherever I go. In my mind, it isn't because I've been chugging huge Gatorade bottles filled with water... it is the weight of the extra pounds pressing on my bladder making it impossible to write one more email before dashing to the pot. Well, if you ever find yourself in this situation - I've found something just miraculous to help when you're driving down Hwy 61 and you feel the need to go, BAD.

Craig will be happy to know that I've researched where I'll be directing him to speed off the highway so I can use the toilet, baby "everything I do, I do it for you..."