My mom says I need to continue blogging...

Little does she know I already am...

3 Months

Nayelli Grace (2 Months)

I actually haven't forgotten to write; I've just been really, really busy. From October through December we had been working on the Christmas play at church. It seems I was there at least three times a week. I was worried because it wasn't your typical Christmas play (a modern day Scrooge), and second it wasn't your typical nativity story that you would see in church (a modern day Scrooge with a spiritual twist). Furthermore, I had to do the set all by myself. And I had a newborn! And a three-year-old that can't sit still. Thank goodness Dad let me borrow his Netflix password, otherwise we would never have gotten it done.

Our Amazing Trunk or Treat (and First Family Photo)

Nayelli was a Unicorn Princess

After that we were sick for a while. About four rounds of itchy throat and runny noses, and pure exhaustion. I didn't feel much like talking about that. Actually, Nayelli had to be observed overnight at Children's Mercy because she had a temperature. Aldo had forgotten about this, but because of her young age, a slight temperature is something to worry about. It was rough. Aldo had to stay home with the kids and with Bandit. I had to stay at the hospital alone overnight. Nayelli had to sleep in a big girl bed/crib hooked up to monitors. Of course, she slept through the night proving the point that she is a "perfect baby". I slept in the rocking chair right next to her with lights on and waking up every hour to pump or for vital check, etc. I'm grateful though, because from this experience we learned that she can, indeed, sleep alone in her crib through the night. So when we got home, we swaddled her and put her in the crib. Since then she's slept through the night.

Nayelli's First Visit with Abuelito

The holidays were nuts. Absolutely nuts. Honestly, where do I come up with these ideas? And why do I open my big mouth? Why do I agree to things? For Thanksgiving, I decided that I wanted to see Dad's side of the family. We hardly ever see them for holidays. Then, Aldo's dad announced that he was moving to El Paso after Thanksgiving, so this was our last time to see him. And Aldo's mom would be going to central Mexico on vacation for Christmas. And Vero wanted to host, but not late at night. And Jerad would host, but he would have to do it later for the kids. It was all mixed up this year! Long story short, we made it to all three, but we were late to both of mine and I didn't get to do my favorite thing... play games! Never. Again. Never, ever again. Two Thanksgivings is enough. Three Thanksgivings is straight up coo-coo.  

Merry Christmas 2018! 

 The very first in our new house...

Christmas, I thought, might go better since we were hosting (Aldo's idea). I knew it was coming because Maecy hosted last year, and when we bought the house Aldo said we would host the next one. Hosting is just as bad as being the one to travel. I don't know who decided we'd be the only ones cooking... I know who. It was Aldo! IT WAS ALDO!!! Aldo told all of my family that we would cook mom's ham, buy a turkey as well and cook it, make mashed potatoes (because J and Amy might not be coming and they're easy), and I'd cook the green beans (per usual because I make his favorite). He told his family not to worry about a thing, that there would be plenty of food, just bring themselves!!! I was like, whoa now... if we're hosting two families at the SAME TIME, we're going to need more. Jerad brought a ton of soda. Granddad was supposed to bring the rolls (he brought hamburger buns). Maecy brought her pretzel salad dessert (delicious!), Mom made stuffing, and Jul came with (what he brings every year) pecan pie. Everyone came at the same time! IT WAS INSANE! Thanks to Granddad and his horrible memory, and Jerad's "5 minutes" turning into a solid hour, my side ended up at the house between 1:30-2:00. Aldo's side, running on CPT, got there immediately after. We were supposed to serve at noon. And I hadn't eaten breakfast. I was starrrrving! And you know what else??? We had two gift exchanges. And while everyone was playing games on the Cooper side, we had the Secret Santa with the Alvidrez'. And while they played the cube game and I almost burnt the second round of green beans, I also had to show the Coopers how to work the remote. Entertaining is stressful. All I wanted to do was play games!!! I had spent YEARS waiting to get to the adult table... it was like, my greatest accomplishment when I was finally able to sit down with everyone and be taken seriously at Up and Down the River... and now, I might actually strategize and win! Sheesh. Afterward, Aldo agreed that hosting both sides at the same time, even though we had enough seating probably wasn't the best idea. So now, we plan on switching years at hosting between the family. 
How did New Years come up? Aldo. Still Aldo. He told friends that he wanted to have them at our house. And invited more friends. Someone's kids invited their friends. And so on. Aldo had worked a regular shift, came home and grilled up some tacos, and hosted til past midnight. For a while there, it was a ton of music and, for me, running up and down the stairs to take care of Nayelli. Then for a while we played Texas Hold Em'. Midnight came, and since then we haven't had a spotless house. (Was it seriously ever going to be spotless? And with a dog that sheds?) Confetti was everywhere! I knew we'd have confetti to sweep up, but darn it, some kid took it upstairs and tossed it all over both of our kids' rooms and in the bathroom too! There's confetti in between the crack of the seat of our couch. There's confetti in our air vents. There's confetti in our vacuum that we emptied at least three times. And there's still confetti in our room (which was locked that night), from sticking to the bottom of our socks and shoes and being carried in there! Forever confetti. Fun night though. Since then, everybody wants to come to our house. I don't know why... we have hardly any seating. No one eats at the dining room table. Our dog goes bonkers when anyone comes over. Maybe I should stop smiling when someone throws out these bad ideas..... I'll replace it with Aldo's "grumpy cat" face.

I forgot to mention that in between the holidays, right before Christmas to be exact, Aldo decided to get a vasectomy. So there's that. I don't want to go into too much detail, but let's just say it was a bad experience for both of us. What should have been a 5-10 minute operation, ended up being 45 minutes. And the recovery was longer. And it's hard as a "nurse" when you don't know how to help the "patient" and how to empathize with what they're going through. All you know is that it was traumatic. And you know, it being the sensitive and prized area... all the more traumatic. 


Currently...

Nayelli
Gosh, because this is HER first year book that I'm working on... 
She's amazing. Absolutely amazing. I already said that she sleeps through the night. A typical day goes like this:

5:00-7:00 am • Wakes up after sleeping through the night for first feeding and goes back to bed
9:00-10:00 am • Wakes up for good, is very attentive and happy (I get most of my cleaning done)
Eating in between
12:00-2:00ish • First nap
Eating in between
Attentive, but wants attention. A good time for games, toys, and learning.
6:00-8:00ish • Second nap
Eating in between
10:00-11:00ish • Bedtime

She recognizes and loves my face. Daddy is pretty high up there too. More importantly, Bandit is interesting now. Except that I've caught him licking her hands, feet, and head while she's in the swing, so you have to keep an eye out. And on top of that, she likes to stick her hands in her mouth as fists. It's really cute. But what's not so cute is when she does it right after Bandit licks them. She also blows raspberries and will chatter at you and raise her eyebrows and smile, like she's telling you a story. Cutest thing ever! She drools a lot. Can babies cut teeth this early? Google says some babies are born with teeth, so at three months it could happen. Typically, they cut around 6 months, but a baby can start showing the symptoms as early as 3 months. If that's so, she might be slobbery in every picture from now til then. Just saying. Last, blankets now go to the mouth too. Today, I caught her examining her hands. The time when she starts examining all sorts of things with her mouth is coming. It's right around the corner.

Mila
Oh, Mila. She is a wonderful big sister. She doesn't try to "help" by taking care of the baby herself like I feared she might. Instead, she warns me when the baby is crying and I need to get out my "special leche". She'll grab you diapers and wipes if you ask repeatedly. And, she'll play with Nayelli by taking her toys, giving Nayelli a high-pitched voice and having a conversation for her, or by telling her she's "so cute" and reminding me to put bows in her hair. Everything is still "so cute". Nayelli is a "princess". Speaking of which... we had a conversation today:

Me [in control of Nayelli's hands]: Come at me, Mila. I'm gonna punch you. Come on. Come at me!
[Mila giggles]: No!
Me: Come on...
[Still giggling]: No!
Me: Hey, guess what, Mila. I'm a princess boss. 
Mila: No, you're not a boss.
Me: Yeah, Mila. I'm a princess boss. Mila's not a princess boss.
Mila: No!
Me: Yeah, I'm a princess boss. Mila's a baby!
[Mila giggles]: I'm not a baby! You baby! 

Gosh, she's so smart. And gorgeous! Both of my girls are GORGEOUS. I mean... watch out! But back to smart. I was worried because I haven't been able to work with her like I did with Luke. For a good portion of his life, Luke watched Elmo and that's how he learned everything. So I was very happy when she picked up Mickey's shapes book. And counting from "monkeys jumping on the bed". And colors from... well, I don't know where they came from. Power Rangers, maybe? I'm so proud.
Hopefully soon we'll be able to get back to the library, where she can have some big girl time and learn with kids her age. Get used to kids her age! She wants to go to "school" and calls the library her "school" and also church her "school". She'll tell me she has "homework" and then play with her toys for a while. I honestly have no idea what she's doing, but if it keeps her occupied for a little bit, then that's good. The girl is constantly talking, or singing, or moving. She's seriously a special kind.

Luke
This is the part where my mom said I should start blogging again. It comes from the fact that I enrolled Luke in 4H. He decided his first project should be with the dog. Actually I encouraged it. Dog Care & Obedience to be exact. Win-win! So we had our first class (without the dog). Class went well with three kids. The trainer is really nice and funny, seems down-to-earth and easy-going. She ended up giving out homework to work on this first week. Made sense since next class will be wild with 10-20 dogs, several of them less than a year old, meeting other dogs and other people for the first time in a new place with new smells. Some who haven't been on a leash that much. Some who haven't been in the car that much... like ours for instance. I imagine that we'll want to quit after the first week. Anyway, the homework was: to work on their name (a dog should look you in the eyes when you say their name, that way if you're out in a field and shout their name... they at least acknowledge you), work on a "stupid trick" that I can only describe as dog touches their nose to your open hand, and the basic trick of sitting. If the dog is already pretty good at sitting then you can toss them treats (which leads to staying). Well, we get home and Luke and I look at each other and say, "Hmmm... let's see what Bandit can do!"
Bandit is not a dumb dog. Close, but not the dumbest. He knows his name. Woohoo! He instantly wants to come at your hand if you put it out. Instead of a nose touch, it has turned into let me go above and beyond and lick your hand up and down for the treat. I will wrap my tongue AROUND your hand, that's how much I want a treat. :| And, for a treat... he'll sit right away. He'll also sit for praise. He likes attention. So, we're like... let's move on to the treat toss. The very first one bonks him right in the middle of the forehead! It was hilarious and sad. I've noticed that he's not very quick at sniffing things out. Apparently he's not very good at seeing things fly towards his head either. I will give it to him though, the treat is tiny like pea-size. I suggest we try a toy instead. So Luke and I do the trick with Bandit's squirrel that he just got for Christmas. He did sooo good! And Aldo taught Bandit to "drop it" so it's been turned into a really fun game! After 20 or so treats and fetches, we're done and I go upstairs. Before I know it, Luke comes up and tells me he has bad news. Bandit ripped up his squirrel. There's stuffing everywhere. Ok, no biggie. He's also ripped up my bra. My last bra. Ugh. THIS DOG! The trainer said to pay attention to how much praise vs. "no"s we tell our four-legged companions. I tied up the count real quick. (To be noted: Bandit has gone after my bras forever. Is it my smell? Is it the breastmilk? Is it the fact that it's just mine and he wants it? I don't know why he went for it, but he's on my Do Not Trust list. Cannot leave bras around, even if on the highest point of the couch or counter. He WILL find it. He WILL go for it.)

Aldo & Myself
Right now our church is doing a 21-day fast. It's been good so far. It is only Day 3...
In the midst though, we have been planning for the Children's Church ahead of schedule, which is nice (for me especially... the admin). We went on a "date" last night to go pick up a foosball table in middle of nowhere, Holton, KS. During the ride we talked about dreams that we've had on trips to go on, retirement, aspirations, work-related goals, etc. Today starts the day where I start getting the house in order and our five year plan written out, a budget in place and so on. Aldo and I are finally in agreement to do the insurance thing (not with the original company), AND in agreement that I should go back to school to become a CPA. I've looked into it several times and every time I think - Oh my gosh, I haven't done a math problem in forever and now companies and people are going to trust me to help them with their finances and taxes! I can't do percentages off the top of my head like Aldo can! I don't understand stocks! I would have to be attached to Excel and whatever other programs they have now. And, would working with numbers all day be mundane and dull? But, I am encouraged to try out a class at least. I can do it. If it doesn't work out, well, like Aldo's insurance job... it wouldn't be "the dream job"... but a means to the end. In all seriousness, I've made the dream job. I'm a mother.

Apple-Picking, Pokemon-Catching & Other Birthday Festivities

Twenty-eight has started out great. I had a couple of ideas on how to celebrate my birthday this year: go to the zoo (because I love the animals and going places, and bringing pleasure to my kids' faces), go to the Renaissance Festival (because it's close and we don't go every year), go on a double date (this was my original idea but it didn't pan out), and/or enjoy the park and then eat a cuisine I've never tasted before, such as Indian or Ethiopian food. We were able to do quite a bit!

The difficulty in celebrating my birthday is that everyone else has birthdays in September also. Why would our common friends want to celebrate so-and-so and then the next day eat out for me and then a week later eat out again?... it's not raining money. 

Friday

Last minute I had an amazing idea to go to the park. First off I wanted to put Mila on her first swing, and two, I thought we could spend some family time together (immediate family time) hunting for Pokemon at the park... figuring out this Pokemon Go thing that has taken the U.S. by craze. I LOVED IT! Every moment. Afterward we ate out at Jose Peppers for Tamra's birthday, and then drove around Shawnee Mission Parkway and Johnson Drive to find PokeStops to collect more PokeBalls to collect more Pokemon. It's quite addictive.

Both of My Kids on the Swings

 Mila's First Push on the Swing

Hunting for Pokemon 

Saturday

Aldo had strange hours because of the holiday. And Saturday I wanted to get out and keep myself occupied so that I wouldn't get the birthday blues (everyone has their own things and can't celebrate me...). Randomly, I was invited to the town's apple orchard, which I never knew existed, by some old high school friends. So I packed up Luke and Mila early that morning and we went to pick apples. It was sort of weird because "my friends" didn't try to catch up with me much at all; I had more in common with the person I hardly talked to in high school and her husband, who I had never met. So yeah... awkward. But Luke and I enjoyed apple slushies and apple-flavored donuts. I bought some apple butter (which I thought would taste a ton better than what it tastes like... I was thinking of some apple spread that you put on bagels and it's kind of nutty too whereas this is more like a bitter apple jelly. Afterward I think we went home and I did some dishes and picked up the house. Woohoo <sarcasticly>.

 

Picking Apples (from trees & off the ground)

Sunday
It's been so long since Aldo has been at church, it felt like a major holiday or special church event. And, Pastor's been preaching on The Lord's Prayer for a really long time, and this Sunday he deviated from it, so it felt really special. AND on my birthday. AND Mila stayed in the nursery for almost the entire time. Aldo had to leave for work afterward. I was so tired that I went back home and napped. Later Luke and I went back to the church for a picnic. Hardly anyone was there that I typically talk to. Instead, I was forced to talk some kids into coming to Wednesday nights, which I haven't even been going to. Ugh... I'm such a bad communicator when it comes to talking with teens. 

Monday
Because we figured out how to have our own little family night on Friday, I was able to include mom and Mace in our zoo outing, but they recommended the Topeka Zoo, which I haven't been to in a long time (Grammy used to take us). It is the smallest zoo I have ever been to. Slightly bigger than a petting zoo, but it does have some exotic animals. Like the "mouse deer", which I had never heard of, but apparently Luke had, so it was nuts when Topeka ended up having those (and not zebras?). The day was nice. I think I may have gotten cranky for a brief moment due to the heat, but all in all I think everyone had a nice time and ended the day at the zoo at the perfect time. We were home for maybe an hour to rest up and move out mom's heavy, antique cash register. Then we went to Alina's birthday at the Cubbages. She had a Bob Ross party. (How fun does that sound?!) We ate potato and chicken tacos, and the kids played together in the living room. I chased Mila around for a verrry long time. And when Pastor Sheri and Dez showed up, we watched an old "home video" from when the church went on a trip to an Indian reservation. (Both Aldo and I were touched by it; we really miss our friend.)

With the Fam at Topeka Zoo

(Maecy, Mateo, Aldo, Mila, Mom, & Luke)

Our Most Recent Family Photo (I look scary though...)

What Is Wrong With Me???

  

Feeding the Zoo Birds

Tuesday
Luke was still off of school, but Aldo was back on regular hours, so he went into work. Luke, Mila and I slept in (about an hour) and chilled all day long. When Aldo got home we went to (someplace I haven't eaten before) Carrabas because we had a gift card from years ago. According to the helpful hints and knowledge base we've aquired from watching Top Chef - Judge Luke said that the pepperoni pizza was too salty, I felt that the lobster ravioli could use some crunch, Judge Aldo liked the basil in whatever noodles he had, the appetizer's ratio of outer layer to mozzarella was off, and the pineapple cocktail drink (Aldo insisted I have it to relax) could have used more grenadine and pineapple.

So, I must admit, it hasn't been a bad celebration at all. Very laid back; not too much planned (more sporadic), which isn't really my style - but it worked!! Next year I think we should just plan to go on a small family trip - like to the lake or something. I did mention that it's been a while since I've been canoeing... And Aldo said he has never gone before. !!! And the wheels start turning...

Poodles

You know... Whenever I'm driving around, or in the shower, or have a moment to think freely (meaning I'm not putting together a subconscious check-list or to-dos, etc.), I think of blog titles. That and funny Facebook posts (that I never add because someone will take them the wrong way). So "Poodles". Why? Because I always thought they were a sassy dog. It might be because that's how they're portrayed... In movies wearing the big, pink bows and speaking in Parisian accents. Foo-fooey. So Mila got this hot pink stuffed poodle for her dedication - we call her Fifi. It's one of her favorites. I don't know why - I never liked poodles. It could be the curly hair on the top of her head. Or that she is an ELECTRIC PINK. Or that I make kissy sounds for her. But Mila loves her. And I never wanted poodle anything. They're just not my style. So when we were given bags upon bags of baby clothes, I didn't really want to keep the poodle-y onesies, or even the ballerina onesies. But I did. Because they fit and they were warm. One day I was explaining how Mila loves her doggie princess when Dad mentioned he used to have poodles. What?! How did I not know this?! Apparently my dad had poodles when he was younger. I then realized - I don't know a lot of things. I can't tell you my dad's job description. I can tell you that my grandpa is a first generation American, but I can't tell you where his parents immigrated from. I can tell you that one of my family members drove into a cow, but I can't tell you who. I can tell you about my Granddad falling in love with a snot-nosed (literally) little girl next door, which happened to be my Grammy. But I realize that there are a lot of stories I just don't know. And that's what I would like to keep track of in these blog books. Something to pass on to the generations. Right now I guess it just looks like I'm passing on crazy genes, but maybe a story or two will make it on a page.

Ballerina Mila

Now for the update:

Mila is exploring her facial expressions. Right now we are developing "The Pout". The other day Aldo coughed and she cried bloody murder. For a cough! It looked like someone pinched  her finger in the clippers type of crying. Broken heart crying. It was just pitiful. So Momma flew in to the rescue. And afterwards, she donned "the pout". It's a cross between a model pout and an upset face pout. Her bottom lip sticks out and the top one disappears. Lately she hasn't smiled, or talked, or furrowed her eyebrows, or anything like that to anyone who has held her. It's an indifferent look. The Pout. You know, it would be my child that would develop this facial expression. That and the "Eye Roll". Anyway, she  also has found her tongue. I can't really explain it, I have no idea what she's trying to do. It looks like she's making s fish face and then sticks out her tongue and sucks it back in, like she's tasting an itch on her lips. Weirdo. Must be inherited from Daddy.

Went to the doctor last week. We've actually been in and out of the doctor with ear infections, but this one was just the 4-month check-up. We can begin feeding her baby cereal. Start off soupy by adding breastmilk and slowly make it like the oatmeal we know. I don't remember this milestone with Luke. I just remember giving him peaches right away. Oops.

She's rolled over 5 times.

Mom watched her and Luke last night while Aldo and I went to his Christmas party for work. From what mom said, it sounded like Mila was good up until she realized I wasn't there. And then cried for the remaining time of the 3 total hours. There was no consoling her. And it was kind of funny when I came home... I took her into my arms and shushed her for a few seconds, and then plopped her on my bed where she was absolutely fine. Cooing like nothing happened.
... She's attached. I've known this, but now they see how attached she is. Now they see why it's so hard for me to go anywhere or get things done at home. She is a Momma's Girl. And I am the lucky Momma. For real, lucky Momma because I can't imagine her not being her. My beautiful Mila.

Oh! And the sleeping schedule that I didn't know when I went in for the last check up. Mila goes to sleep around 10-11:00. She sleep til about 8:00 (waking up briefly 1-3 times throughout the night). So that's a 9-10 hour sleep. She is awake for good at 10:00 am. We play, we shower, we do Tummy Time. We do the basic eat and get changed. This is her really awake time. She'll fall asleep somewhere in there but not for long. So I play with her more until she wears out. And from 2-4:00 pm she's sleeping again. When Luke gets home she's awake. I'd want to be awake for brother too. He's so interesting. She sleeps one more time for a short period around 8ish. I think her longest sleeping period during the day is about 2 hours at a time.

No updates for Luke or us, except that we're going through Financial Peace again. It's like we missed all the major things from the first class. So we're on a new budget trying to pay off this silly medical debt and car loan, trying to save for the future. We're thinking of you kids! Always thinking of you. Love you!

Why Do They Make Childbirth Classes So Exhausting?

33 Weeks

Last weekend I went with Maecy to the Newborn class that I've been wanting to take at Shawnee Mission. I couldn't remember how to swaddle (and it was never my gift either - I always made Aldo do it with Luke). Since I'm stay-at-home now, I thought a refresher course wouldn't hurt. I'll be the one with baby girl all day. I better know what to expect. Time to get out the books! Here's some notes I took:

Baby girls may have small bleeding in their diapers for 1-2 days because of the hormones from Mommy.

Babies don't need bathed every day - more like every 2 to 3 days. But you can wipe down their neck (where the milk gets in the folds) and around their ears every day. Use non-fragrant soap. Don't use lotions or oils. Diaper rash cream is alright, but make sure it has zinc oxide in it and of course airing out will help it too.

Only swaddle your baby in a blanket when you will be in the room. If you're going to be out of the room, the only SIDs approved garment is the Halo sleep sack (which I think SMMC is going to give me). 

Don't have a binky? Or it's too early to introduce? Use your finger. But put the fingernail against their tongue so you don't hurt the roof of their mouth. Pacifiers and bottles shouldn't be introduced until at least 3-4 weeks of age. They don't get food or water until at least 6 months of age.

Baby sleeps in the same room as you until she's about 6 months.

I need to see if our car seat is expired by calling the manufacturer. And as far as car seat safety - the best place for it to go is in the middle, rear facing. Fire stations will inspect them for you to make sure their installed right, but you may have to make an appointment.

I need to pick a new pediatrician (don't care for this one in Leavenworth anyway) that is off of the SMMC list and in our network.

Babies don't need much to eat. Their stomachs are marble-sized at birth. That's why they wake up every 2-3 hours to eat (eating about 8 to 12 times in a 24 hour period).

Don't use tap water in formula. You need to use fluoride free water.

When feeding burp half-way and then switch sides. Same even if you aren't breastfeeding, that way their neck muscles etc. develop correctly and your arms don't hurt as much either.

A trick for siblings - anything that can fit through a toilet paper roll is not a safe toy to give a baby.

Today we went to an all day Childbirth class (lunch provided), but it didn't even go to noon. So Maecy and I were both disappointed when we didn't get free lunch. Maecy was the one who found out about the class through her breastfeeding meeting with WIC. It was free so we decided to go. As we looked on the website (www.uzazivillage.com) to register, it looked like it was going to be "ghetto" and we would be the only white girls there. Today, when we were searching the block for the building, Maecy was like - Is it in a garage? Eventually we did find it, but parking took us a while - we passed by about 10 times to find a spot for the car or turn the correct way on all the one-way streets. (White, country girls…)
Surprisingly it wasn't ghetto. It was a really nice class. And I would go back again. The instructor was super informative and personal. There was only one other girl in the class with her doula (I had to Google it - a doula is a non-medical person who helps women before, during and after birth - they help with birth plans, positions, breathing, massage, and can visit you at home after baby is born).
I kind of remember getting on the ground in different positions with Aldo when we took the Childbirth class for Luke. She didn't do that. We covered other things like - how you got pregnant and how baby grows, what happens to your body during labor, pain relief, and breastfeeding. Still good info though. Here are some of my notes:

You should be taking prenatal vitamins with "methylated" folic acid in it. Also, if the vitamin doesn't dissolve in water after an hour, then your body isn't absorbing anything. If your pee is super yellow, all the vitamins and minerals you're taking are going right through you. (Flintstones chewables clearly aren't a good vitamin.)

On packaged foods, you want to eat things with low sodium (salt). But also low sugar (less than 4g). If it's low in salt, it'll be high in sugar to make up for the flavor.

You should be drinking half your weight in water. More so when pregnant. And more so when it's hot outside. Right now, for me, I should be drinking 120-150+ oz. of water a day. If you drink soda, then you need to drink the same amount of water to balance the soda out. *So let's say you drank 100 oz. of water one day, then a 20 oz. soda. You still need to drink 20 oz. of water to make up for the soda AND another 20 oz. of water to hit your 120 oz. of water goal for the day. 

Get a prenatal yoga video.

Having acid reflux? Take four papaya enzymes. 

Practice breathing with phone apps. So you are ready for the day and you don't forget how when you are pushing. 

Make a birth plan. Take it to your doctor to get it checked over. Plan for if you can't have an epidural. (The things that help me deal with pain are - dim lighting, Tye Tribbet's "I Can Make It" song, having my head rubbed, my hand held, a rice bag, water, and plenty of blankets and maybe a pillow to squeeze. How other people can help me - with the above, affirmation, DO NOT be on your phone and ignore the entire thing, DO NOT be playing games or cards and again ignore the whole thing.)

Braxton Hicks is when your body is hard in ONE spot. It is preparing your body. (So yes, that pain that I'm feeling on the upper, right square-ish portion of my belly is Braxton Hicks.) In active labor, you cannot talk; you cannot walk; and it changes your cervix.

Medicines - With IV drugs, you won't be able to walk. They go straight to baby's blood, so you'll have a drowsy baby. With an epidural, you can only push laying on your back. No other positions. So basically before you get it, ask What are the effects? Will it make me nauseous? How long will it last?

Ask about late cord clamping. You don't want it cut until after the cord stops pulsating. Baby is getting very good blood, oxygen, etc. from the cord at that time, so wait a few.

Everyone has "baby blues". Postpartum is when it is still going on after 2 weeks.  

Some Breastfeeding 101 - Don't lean forward. Get in a comfortable position first. Bring baby to you, baby must be up and down or side to side in a straight line. Make sure you have support for your arms. 

We didn't do much today, but I was and am still exhausted. Thursday we took Luke to book club with us at T-Rex and then at 10pm saw the new Jurassic World movie. I felt like the irresponsible parent - the one who took their 4-yr-old to a graphic movie and kept him out way past his bedtime. The next morning I had to go to a camp meeting. BUT, my wonderful husband had his alarm going off at six in the morning and didn't shut it off. He just kept hitting snooze every 5-8 minutes. Some day this week I woke up at 3:30am and couldn't stop thinking about the merchandise table at camp and how to run it. Then today I had to get up early to meet Maecy at this class. I'm so tired. My brain can't think. It just wants to shut down.

Some news -

Me: I've already caught up on what's happening to my body - that sore spot I get sometimes on my belly and acid reflux in the early mornings. Still working on camp things. Taking Luke to appointments, getting him ready for school enrollment. And random things here and there like ancestry, baby shower planning (which will be the next big thing after camp), and house searching.

Luke: His birthday is this Wednesday. He's turning 5! He wants a wrestling ring and hermit crabs. Odd combination. Haha! Jurassic World was part of that, but on his birthday I think we're going to pick out his crabs, maybe swim (depending on weather - it's been rainy this past month), and have cake with the Gutierrez fam. Then on Friday, we'll celebrate with his cousins and possibly Maecy and her nephews at Chuckie Cheese. I hate not being able to have a big party or at least one that has some sort of theme.
1st Birthday - Sprinkler Party
2nd Birthday - Elmo
3rd Birthday - Trex
4th Birthday - Mario
5th Birthday - Trex again, Crabs, Swimming, Chuckie Cheese (all random)

Aldo: ?? Who knows ?? Camp mode.

Maecy: She's having a boy. Her names so far are Sebastian or Andres (pronounced "ON-Dre"). So all that knitting of girlie things (even the weird elf-shaped booties, berry hat, and purple cocoon that mom made) are going to Mila. Knitting overload!


Almost time for Aldo to come home. I'm going to relax for a little bit and let this back of mine "let go".

Family Trip 2015

Our family trip was so great! I think my "OCD" is worse now that I'm pregnant… because I planned that sucker every which way. But it's ok, because I have a husband that doesn't mind a little bit of planning. And we had fun.

We went to Omaha, Nebraska AND St. Louis, Missouri (...because we couldn't decide and it was Aldo's birthday wish). Early Thursday morning we left for Omaha, first stop Love's for beef jerky. (Aldo's blow money was gone the first day!) We arrived at City Market around lunch time, but none of us were hungry and I can't remember why. We walked around a couple blocks there because that's what you do at a City Market. I liked the brick roads and the oldness of the buildings, but it seemed like it was all antique places and expensive food joints. We went into one antique Hollywood-ish store; they had a whole bunch of old-fashioned candies, records, and collections on display like PEZ holders and lunch boxes. Nothing you could actually buy. I was basically bored and even though we had been in the car all morning, I wanted to sit down. So we went on to the recommended Spaghetti Works for lunch. Not a bad start at all. Food was good and the Italian Soda was delicious and refreshing. Afterward we went to the Family Fun Center XL. The website looked amazing and advertised glow golf, laser mazes, bazooka ball, etc. so I was really excited to go. It reminded me of Chuckie Cheese's except that the pizza was killer. As in, it could kill you. For real. I ate a salad and grapes if that explains anything. We played glow golf (we were the only ones there) two times. Once regular, and the next with bent rules like put with your foot (I blame my loss on that). Even though it was up to par on my glow golf expectations (forgive the pun), it was still probably my favorite thing we did there. Luke also tried out the rock wall. We all three went in the laser maze. Aldo and Luke first, but Luke got scared and came back out. Me and Luke next, Luke again came out. Finally Aldo and Luke did it again and made it through completely. It was really hot in there; I wasn't sure how I was going to bend through those laser lines with my pregnant belly, but I did it. We played laser tag just in time before all the kids arrived. Luke was on my team of course, and we won. Before we left, we relaxed a little and Aldo taught me some pool. First impression of our room wasn't the best because it smelled like eggs, but I slept great and Luke had his own pull out bed in the other room. Poor Aldo was sick throughout the night, but thank goodness he felt better in the morning.

Best Quote of Day One: Aldo reciting "Boy Meets World"

Amish Man: Young friend, how far art thou traveling?

Cory: Me?

Amish Man: Yes, thee.

Cory: Ah, well I'm going to Philadelphia.

Amish Man: Well, I'm going as far as that farmhouse, there.

Cory: That farmhouse there?

Amish Man: Yes. That farmhouse, there.

Cory: I see. Well I'm going to Philadelphia.

Amish Man: Well, I could take you as far as that farmhouse, there.

Cory: And that's very nice of you, but maybe I'll just wait for some form of transportation that involves...combustion.

Amish Man: I understand. But if you change your mind, I'll be at that farmhouse, there.

Cory: Yes, but see if that's as far as you're going then it does me no good.

Amish Man: That is true. But my intent was just, and my heart is pure. [rides off]

Cory: Also does me no good.

Love's Beef Jerky - Be jealous.

The next day we went to the zoo, and completed the entire thing (Imax included) in less than 6 hours. I will tell you this, last time we didn't go to the desert or to the jungle. WE MISSED OUT! Those were our favorite parts!!! I'll give you all the high points because there is just so much at a zoo to experience. We rode on the Skyfari and train, saw a sea lion training, and near the end of the day went to a kamodo dragon feeding. I fell asleep for a minute or so during the Humpback Whale showing at the Imax. The desert is not as stinky as they say. The big news going around was that the silverback gorilla had broken the glass the day before (and we had to walk through the gorilla exhibit several times because of construction). Kingdom of the Night exhibit was awesome, because how many times do we see alligators and beavers in swampy surroundings? Bats and armadillos under red light? And our final place we went was the Lied Jungle. It was our greatest and most remembered part, there were bats out in the open. And lemurs out in the open. And a sloth out in the open. They could come sit on your shoulder if they wanted. But didn't. The bats were the craziest… 

Aldo decided to take us through the exhibit again, but on the floor level (off the beaten path). Pregnant lady is tired, right… So we go. As we're walking, we duck down to go through a small cave, Aldo and Luke leading the way, me behind. I look up and there are two bats hanging upside down from the ceiling out int he open. Are they supposed to be out? Oops.. Then a group of teenage boys come through screaming like girls - the bats awaken and swoop through us so that we can literally feel the wind of their wings on our necks. !!! As we walk out, Luke is clinging onto Aldo's leg and we come to a huge wall covered in bats. Some on the side, others flapping all over the place. We made a video, but it doesn't do it justice. And I apologize that the video isn't that long - the "elevator creeper" showed up and we stopped filming. We went to the gift shop and bought our family animal poop. Your welcome.

Oh and I forgot, Le Solo Mio (the restaurant) is now a family ritual, even with it being a $100 bill. Best Italian I have ever had in my life. In. My. Life. Tiramisu of your dreams.

Best Quotes of Day Two:

• Butterfly Pavilion - Aldo sings "Little Mermaid" rather than Ace Ventura Call

• Aldo in Bat Video & Now Luke Quoting Him… - These vicious creatures are attacking us right now. Let's see if we can get closer [in Crocodile Hunter voice]

• Luke on Car Ride Home -  My skin is sleeping

Family Trip to the Omaha Zoo - 2015

The Butterfly Call

Aldo really does have gorilla hands

Nerdiest glasses ever. And Luke really was all about the map.

Escape Lizard in Desert Dome!

Lied Jungle - Off the Beaten Path

Even though the ride was longer from our house to St. Louis than it was to Omaha, it didn't feel like it. We had a great mix of music, we took a fantastic pit stop at Steak N' Shake half way, and ended the ride with a travel game. This was the part of the trip that got a little more spontaneous too. Since we had left especially late, we were able to check into the hotel right away. Highly recommend the Embassy Suites on Lone Eagle Dr. because they were so nice, the breakfast in the morning was amazing, pool and wifi, remarkable room, out of the city… we had everything we wanted in a hotel stay. After relaxing a bit from the ride, we went to City Museum. Most dangerous and crazy indoor/outdoor children's/adult jungle gym there ever was. It's made of recycled material (all metal). As a child, you could stick an arm or a leg through your tunnel (made of bars) 2 or 3 stories up in the air. Over concrete! Aldo said there were so many paths to take to get to one place, a lot of them being tight spaces. An adult could get lost! Anyway, I kept Luke mainly in the ball pit for younger kids, which nobody followed the rules in. So "mama bear" was out. I felt like the over-protective mother. Everyone was letting their kids go nuts, and I wouldn't take my eyes off my child. This is where we found our souvenir cards. We were so exhausted by the end of the night. When we got back to the hotel, we said we would swim, so we did that. Luke had such a blast wearing his new floaties. And he was able to play Torpedoes with Daddy. They also had a jacuzzi which Aldo utilized for a bit. And I was worry free, weightless, and we were the only ones in the pool. :)

Best Quote of Day Three: Luke playing car game - "How many did Louis get?"

Getting super sweaty in the ball pit

 

Metal Mazes & Slides for Days

Our final day was more relaxed, meaning not too hard on the body… We went to the Free Science Center and learned about the St. Louis Arch and different ways to build, etc. They had a huge dinosaur that Luke was interested in. And some other cool displays. We left with plenty of time to get down to the levee to park, but there was so much construction we got lost. And made it just in time. The day was kind of dreary because it was sprinkling. Aldo said he enjoyed the sightseeing cruise, but it reminded me of something Grammy and Granddad would do. We were probably the youngest ones there. Then we headed home. Job well done. 

Best Quote of Day Four: Luke on Sightseeing Tour - "Oh… I'm dying."

Arch Complete!

Learning about Bridges

More Cool Scientific Stuff

Rainy Days in St. Louis

We hadn't spent that much time together (consecutively) for a long time. Something must have been off before because I can't imagine not talking or joking, hanging out (more than watching a movie), and not missing just BEING with them for hours and hours in a row. I'm so glad we went on this trip. It was a reminder of how big of a role Family Time really is in life.

Why I Wasn't at Work Today...

Haven’t been to Worlds of Fun in a while. Let me tell you… the Prowler is awesome!

We were invited to go with the church youth and the date just happened to work out. It was also a nice break from work and home. It’s funny though, only after a couple of hours, we were missing Luke. How am I going to do it for four days?

MaMa & BaBa

Aldo and I received a certificate for the Chateau Avalon for Christmas. We used it this past weekend. It was a nice stay in the Venetian room. I would have taken a picture, but there wasn't anything out of the norm about it; it was just very elegant. The jacuzzi was its best attribute. We've decided we want one for our house, when we build/buy it, and want a bigger one for outside, which will sit in-ground beside our huge pool.

This week Aldo has been hanging around the house because he's on Spring Break. (Teachers are lucky. They have the best working hours in the world, off whenever anything significant happens.) Monday we spent the day together around the house. And tonight, as I'm writing this at 11:00pm, he's spending time with his little sister at a WWE wrestling match. Tomorrow I think we'll get out of the house for a while so we can enjoy the warm weather, because the rest of the week I'll be without a car as mine is in repair from the most recent fender bender.

Significant event this week: Luke said his first word. Mama. He really is the sweetest baby boy. How I love him!!! His second word was "baba" for bottle. And last, he ate some chicken poop on my mom's watch. So now she can't be trusted...