13 hours ago
Saturday, December 31, 2011
Happy New Years!!
2011 was definitely the biggest year of our lives. We got pregnant and had a precious darling baby boy. He continues to bless our lives everyday. Best wishes for 2012!!
Thursday, December 22, 2011
The Story
Just a warning- its a long one!
It all started Tuesday, September 27th. I was not feeling well and I thought I was having contractions. When I got home for lunch I decided to call Dr. Fulton and just see what she thought. She felt like I was just in pre labor, the previous Thursday I was 1 cm dilated and 50% effaced. She told me just to head to the hospital anyway and make sure everything was good. Dan was in class in Jackson already, so my Mom and Mimi drove me to St. Dominic's. The maternity ward was HOPPING! It was full! they finally got me in a room and I was having good contractions that were fairly regular, but I had still not dilated any further. So we stayed for our last Lamaze class and back home we went.
I decided to start my maternity leave, I was miserably huge and contracting, I just couldn't get over the "hump." The next two days were spent walking up and down Chambers Street and Baum Street with my mom. I also ate tons of spicy food in an effort to "smoke him out!"
Finally Thursday night something felt different. I called Dr Fulton again and she told me to go to the hospital and if I had not changed, they would give me something to help me sleep and she would see me in the morning. I just KNEW this was it- it had to be!!! Dan and I arrive at St. Dominic's and our not-so-nice nurse proceeds to tell us that I have still not changed and she doubts Dr. Fulton would do anything besides send me home in the morning, so if she were me, she would just go home now...
Back home again and feeling incredibly defeated.
We arrive at Dr. Fulton's office for our regularly scheduled appointment Friday morning feeling exhausted from all the back and forth. Upon seeing me Dr. Fulton says "You look awful, why did you leave the hospital??!" She then checks me and I was 2.5cm dilated!!! CHANGE!!! She informs me that I am stuck in early labor and believes all I need is just a little nudge to push me over the hump and that was what she intended on doing this morning at the hospital. We should not have listened to that nurse last night, we should have stayed at the hospital like Dr. Fulton said in the first place. Always listen to your doctor!!!! So, telling a "large for date" pregnant woman that she had been misinformed by a lazy nurse and that this could be over by now causes immediate tears. I explained to her what we had been told by the nurse last night and she immediately guessed her name. She tells us to go back to the hospital and that she would meet us there.
Finally! Third time was a charm. She insisted that this was not an induction, Daniel and I had decided early on that we did not want to be induced. She met us at the hospital and broke my water. That was all it took! Then the contractions started getting INTENSE! Epidural please!! The epidural itself was a little scary. I felt/ heard the "pop" and it freaked me out. I remember Dr. F saying "try not to loose it, once you loose it-- it is very hard to get it back!" This woman is so wise- words to live by!
My epidural worked very well. Too well on my left side, my leg was completely and totally numb. I lost all feeling and control of it- that definitely freaked me out. I could move my right leg slightly, but not being able to move my left one at all was horribly scary to me.
At 5:45 it was time to push. When they put my feet in the stirrups, I was immediately petrified that my left leg was going to fall. Like pop out of my hip socket because I literally had no control over it. I instructed Dan that he was to hold my leg and DO NOT move! I was so focused on keeping my leg, everything else was not so bad. At one point Dr. Fulton even told me to "quit worrying about your leg, you are having a BABY!!!" The best way I can describe it was that it was work. It was very hard work, like it was just exhausting me. I never screamed or freaked out. I did tell Dan to "shut up" at one point but that was as bad as it got. Our little baby boy was born at 6:34 pm. Dr. Fulton was amazed at how quickly we went. She said most first time moms push for hours. So, she was right. I just needed a tiny nudge!
It all started Tuesday, September 27th. I was not feeling well and I thought I was having contractions. When I got home for lunch I decided to call Dr. Fulton and just see what she thought. She felt like I was just in pre labor, the previous Thursday I was 1 cm dilated and 50% effaced. She told me just to head to the hospital anyway and make sure everything was good. Dan was in class in Jackson already, so my Mom and Mimi drove me to St. Dominic's. The maternity ward was HOPPING! It was full! they finally got me in a room and I was having good contractions that were fairly regular, but I had still not dilated any further. So we stayed for our last Lamaze class and back home we went.
I decided to start my maternity leave, I was miserably huge and contracting, I just couldn't get over the "hump." The next two days were spent walking up and down Chambers Street and Baum Street with my mom. I also ate tons of spicy food in an effort to "smoke him out!"
Finally Thursday night something felt different. I called Dr Fulton again and she told me to go to the hospital and if I had not changed, they would give me something to help me sleep and she would see me in the morning. I just KNEW this was it- it had to be!!! Dan and I arrive at St. Dominic's and our not-so-nice nurse proceeds to tell us that I have still not changed and she doubts Dr. Fulton would do anything besides send me home in the morning, so if she were me, she would just go home now...
Back home again and feeling incredibly defeated.
We arrive at Dr. Fulton's office for our regularly scheduled appointment Friday morning feeling exhausted from all the back and forth. Upon seeing me Dr. Fulton says "You look awful, why did you leave the hospital??!" She then checks me and I was 2.5cm dilated!!! CHANGE!!! She informs me that I am stuck in early labor and believes all I need is just a little nudge to push me over the hump and that was what she intended on doing this morning at the hospital. We should not have listened to that nurse last night, we should have stayed at the hospital like Dr. Fulton said in the first place. Always listen to your doctor!!!! So, telling a "large for date" pregnant woman that she had been misinformed by a lazy nurse and that this could be over by now causes immediate tears. I explained to her what we had been told by the nurse last night and she immediately guessed her name. She tells us to go back to the hospital and that she would meet us there.
Finally! Third time was a charm. She insisted that this was not an induction, Daniel and I had decided early on that we did not want to be induced. She met us at the hospital and broke my water. That was all it took! Then the contractions started getting INTENSE! Epidural please!! The epidural itself was a little scary. I felt/ heard the "pop" and it freaked me out. I remember Dr. F saying "try not to loose it, once you loose it-- it is very hard to get it back!" This woman is so wise- words to live by!
My epidural worked very well. Too well on my left side, my leg was completely and totally numb. I lost all feeling and control of it- that definitely freaked me out. I could move my right leg slightly, but not being able to move my left one at all was horribly scary to me.
At 5:45 it was time to push. When they put my feet in the stirrups, I was immediately petrified that my left leg was going to fall. Like pop out of my hip socket because I literally had no control over it. I instructed Dan that he was to hold my leg and DO NOT move! I was so focused on keeping my leg, everything else was not so bad. At one point Dr. Fulton even told me to "quit worrying about your leg, you are having a BABY!!!" The best way I can describe it was that it was work. It was very hard work, like it was just exhausting me. I never screamed or freaked out. I did tell Dan to "shut up" at one point but that was as bad as it got. Our little baby boy was born at 6:34 pm. Dr. Fulton was amazed at how quickly we went. She said most first time moms push for hours. So, she was right. I just needed a tiny nudge!
Sunday, October 30, 2011
Announcement!
As most of you know, my sweet little man made his grand entrance to the world September 30, 2011. I hope to blog our birth story soon- being a mama is exhausting!! Until then, a few pictures will have to suffice.
Exactly 24 hours before the birth:
Before we went home:
His first few moments home:
Exactly 24 hours before the birth:
Before we went home:
His first few moments home:
Friday, September 23, 2011
PROGRESS
Yesterday turned out to be a good day-
We went in for a root canal, but upon careful evaluation and tests, Doc determined that it was not imperative that I have the root canal immediately. Maybe even not at all. During pregnancy weird things happen to your teeth, your eyes, your feet... the list goes on and on.
Can I just tell you how wonderful this dentist was? He took his time and discovered that this (incredibly expensive and nerve wracking) procedure was unnecessary. I think its rare to find a doctor or dentist these days that is so thorough.
Bottom line: Derek White in Madison is very highly recommended by the Ratliff's :)
So, we had some time to kill so we shopped for little Jackson and we ate lunch and then we were off to our weekly appointment!
Stats from Yesterday:
How far along? 37 weeks, 5 days
Baby's size? She said I was measuring "on target"
Weight gain? 29 lbs
Sleep? not much. Hard to even roll over!
Foods I am loving? Ice Water with tons of lemon has been really good lately. The chicken spaghetti that I made the other night! YUM
Foods I am hating? nothing!
Symptoms? The usual... I can wait to wear my wedding ring again- I think it will be like getting it for the first time all over again!
Gender? boy.
Name? Jackson Sharpe Ratliff
What I miss? I can no longer cross my legs.
What I'm looking forward to? normal sized feet, fingers and ankles. A healthy baby boy and relatively easy birth.
Emotions? Emotional... highly.
Accomplishments? I am really glad we decided to take some classes. We have one more night of Child Birth Class- if you are thinking of taking it, we both would recommend it. I think it has eased both of our anxieties about what is to come. Now, we understand what is going on and will happen. We know what we can do and ask for to make labor easier and more enjoyable for us and our baby. I think it has really built our confidence. Even Dan will say that he is surprised at how much he has gotten out of it.
Last night I took Breastfeeding 101 while Dan took Fatherwise. I think this was Dans favorite. It was taught by a young-ish father of 3, and it was mostly Q & A. He said a lot of it was stuff he had not even thought of. My class was also really good- So informative. I actually feel like despite all of the negativity that I hear about it, I may be able to do it!! The first thing she told us is that the biggest myth is that breastfeeding hurts. She says that is not true- If it hurts, you are doing something WRONG and we can fix it.
So basically its easy, free, perfect, and specific to Jackson and exactly what he needs, will help me loose baby weight AND it doesn't hurt???!!!! ummm SOLD!
Progress: WE ARE DILATED 1CM YALL! Also, 50% thinned! Yippee!!!
No need to point out that some people can walk around for a month at 1 centimeter. We are happy with small victories. Also- know that I will not walk around at 1 for a month because I only have TWO WEEKS LEFT! (I am starting to think this Doctor knew exactly what she was doing by not checking me until I reached this point)
Have a good weekend!
Monday, September 19, 2011
From good day to Bad day... just like THAT.
Emergency root canal scheduled for Thursday (almost 38 weeks). I am absolutely panicking. I have never had one of those. I swear, the whole time I have been pregnant, my teeth seem to be freaking out. The dentist says it's just one of those fluke things- and after googling it on BabyCenter.com, turns out its really common. Still, any words of encouragement are greatly appreciated. Anyone heard of Dr. Derek White in Madison? Is he good? Is he nice? Words of wisdom?
There is soooo much that goes along with pregnancy that has nothing to do with folding little sweet onesies, walking in the park with your hubby- smiling at all the little babies, eating ice cream and getting foot rubs... Damn lifetime movies.
At least I will get a prize at the end. I know he will be worth it.
There is soooo much that goes along with pregnancy that has nothing to do with folding little sweet onesies, walking in the park with your hubby- smiling at all the little babies, eating ice cream and getting foot rubs... Damn lifetime movies.
At least I will get a prize at the end. I know he will be worth it.
Nursery Pictures!
The long awaited nursery is DONE! Ok, I am still looking for a rug, but its basically DONE! Clothes and linens are washed and ready for Jackson to lay his sweet self in.
The crib looks really dark in the pictures for some reason. It's Pewter in real life. The last two pics are a close up of the primary fabric (Reesa Horizon) that I used in the room. I am really happy with the way it turned out! YAY! Now its just a waiting game Folks!
The crib looks really dark in the pictures for some reason. It's Pewter in real life. The last two pics are a close up of the primary fabric (Reesa Horizon) that I used in the room. I am really happy with the way it turned out! YAY! Now its just a waiting game Folks!
Friday, September 9, 2011
35 weeks and a (mini) meltdown
SOOO...
All this time Daniel and I have been going by our first sonogram, which predicted our due date to be October 4th. Well, Dr. Fulton (who is wonderful and awesome) is going by another calendar and says our due date is October 8th. So what, big deal.. 4 days is not a huge deal right? WRONG. 4 days is a looooonnnnngggg time to a preggo. So if you notice, I have changed my ticker to reflect the doc's date- since she IS the one that went to school and everything....
Our last appointment was Wednesday and I may have let my hormones get the best of me. I had decided that she was going to check me and that was going to be it. I was going to be dilated, and this show would get on the road. Well, Dr. Fulton sees things a little differently (perhaps clearer) than a big hormonal, emotional pregnant woman. She informed me that she would not, will not check me until I reach 38 weeks. That's 3 weeks folks! I fully intended to have him sleeping thru the night at that point!!! Doc also refuses to give me a "guess" of when she thinks the baby is coming. All she would tell me is that I would not be pregnant at Halloween. You can imagine my face- and delight.
After my many pleas, the appointment ended. My wonderful husband suggested we go up to the 5th floor to look at all the sweet babies, it may cheer me up. So we headed down the long hallway, past the pope, to the elevators. We encountered a very peppy nurse who took one look at us and said "Are you headed up? I am an L&D nurse, but I am going home for the night. I will see YOU in the morning!!! GOOD LUCK!!!" As I realized she thought I was in labor, it occurred to me that everyone in the universe thinks I am ready except Dr. Fulton. So here come the waterworks. (mini) meltdown. Daniel decides that going to the L&D floor is probably a bad idea and takes me to Newks (and Dairy Queen) instead.
How far along? 35 and 3/4 Weeks
Baby's size? Honey Dew Melon... yea right. He is a full grown toddler.
Weight gain? 25 lobs
Sleep? not much. Hard to even roll over!
Foods I am loving? Ice Water with tons of lemon has been really good lately
Foods I am hating? nothing!
Symptoms? swollen feet, swollen fingers. I HATE not wearing my wedding ring, but I swear I am scared it is gonna get stuck. The bottoms of my feet feel like I just gone for a nice run- on gravel- barefooted.
Gender? boy. sweet little bunny.
What I miss? Being able to hold it together a little better. I think every single emotion is amplified.
What I'm looking forward to? The next phase. My mother asked me if I remembered all of those big ideas I told Dr. Fulton about not intervening medically, that I wanted to go into labor on my own... I did not want to choose his birthday. I wanted him to pick it. Well sometimes you get what you ask for. She is making me stick to my plan because in my heart of hearts, it really is what Daniel and I want. We want him to come when he sees fit. Not when we decide we want him out. I guess it's the first of those things you have to as a parent and choose what is best for your child, not just what would be easier for you. I just need to trust in the Lord, and know that he will take care of us.
We are also very excited to see Daniels mom and grandmother this weekend. We haven't seen his grandmother since our wedding!!!
Emotions? Some days are a little rocky :). Daniel is being incredibly supportive. I know that it must be tough- I think it would be so aggravating for someone to constantly try to explain something to you, and there was no way in the world you could possibly understand.
Accomplishments? We got the rocker!! literally almost done with Nursery!!
All this time Daniel and I have been going by our first sonogram, which predicted our due date to be October 4th. Well, Dr. Fulton (who is wonderful and awesome) is going by another calendar and says our due date is October 8th. So what, big deal.. 4 days is not a huge deal right? WRONG. 4 days is a looooonnnnngggg time to a preggo. So if you notice, I have changed my ticker to reflect the doc's date- since she IS the one that went to school and everything....
Our last appointment was Wednesday and I may have let my hormones get the best of me. I had decided that she was going to check me and that was going to be it. I was going to be dilated, and this show would get on the road. Well, Dr. Fulton sees things a little differently (perhaps clearer) than a big hormonal, emotional pregnant woman. She informed me that she would not, will not check me until I reach 38 weeks. That's 3 weeks folks! I fully intended to have him sleeping thru the night at that point!!! Doc also refuses to give me a "guess" of when she thinks the baby is coming. All she would tell me is that I would not be pregnant at Halloween. You can imagine my face- and delight.
After my many pleas, the appointment ended. My wonderful husband suggested we go up to the 5th floor to look at all the sweet babies, it may cheer me up. So we headed down the long hallway, past the pope, to the elevators. We encountered a very peppy nurse who took one look at us and said "Are you headed up? I am an L&D nurse, but I am going home for the night. I will see YOU in the morning!!! GOOD LUCK!!!" As I realized she thought I was in labor, it occurred to me that everyone in the universe thinks I am ready except Dr. Fulton. So here come the waterworks. (mini) meltdown. Daniel decides that going to the L&D floor is probably a bad idea and takes me to Newks (and Dairy Queen) instead.
How far along? 35 and 3/4 Weeks
Baby's size? Honey Dew Melon... yea right. He is a full grown toddler.
Weight gain? 25 lobs
Sleep? not much. Hard to even roll over!
Foods I am loving? Ice Water with tons of lemon has been really good lately
Foods I am hating? nothing!
Symptoms? swollen feet, swollen fingers. I HATE not wearing my wedding ring, but I swear I am scared it is gonna get stuck. The bottoms of my feet feel like I just gone for a nice run- on gravel- barefooted.
Gender? boy. sweet little bunny.
What I miss? Being able to hold it together a little better. I think every single emotion is amplified.
What I'm looking forward to? The next phase. My mother asked me if I remembered all of those big ideas I told Dr. Fulton about not intervening medically, that I wanted to go into labor on my own... I did not want to choose his birthday. I wanted him to pick it. Well sometimes you get what you ask for. She is making me stick to my plan because in my heart of hearts, it really is what Daniel and I want. We want him to come when he sees fit. Not when we decide we want him out. I guess it's the first of those things you have to as a parent and choose what is best for your child, not just what would be easier for you. I just need to trust in the Lord, and know that he will take care of us.
We are also very excited to see Daniels mom and grandmother this weekend. We haven't seen his grandmother since our wedding!!!
Emotions? Some days are a little rocky :). Daniel is being incredibly supportive. I know that it must be tough- I think it would be so aggravating for someone to constantly try to explain something to you, and there was no way in the world you could possibly understand.
Accomplishments? We got the rocker!! literally almost done with Nursery!!
Thursday, August 25, 2011
34 Weeks and in the home stretch!
This was last weekend at a wedding shower- we opted out of costumes, its hard enough to find regular clothes that fit! We had a blast with the happy couple, Kelly and Frances! October will be here before we know it!
How far along? 34 Weeks
Baby's size? The nurse practitioner guessed 6lbs. He is advanced :)
Weight gain? 21 pounds
Sleep? Some nights are decent... getting harder to breathe when I lay down.
Foods I am loving? Still LOVE Orange Juice. Like LOVE LOVE it. Tastes like sunshine.
Foods I am hating? nothing!
Symptoms? swollen feet, swollen fingers. The bottoms of my feet feel like I just gone for a nice run- on gravel- barefooted.
Gender? boy. sweet little bunny.
What I miss? nothing.
What I'm looking forward to? Seeing if he has hair. I ran out of nexium for 2 days and the heartburn returned with a vengeance.
Emotions? One big ball of emotion. It's so weird- for years, I have heard people say "oh, just as long as he is healthy..." and that is nice to say and all, but it's just that, something nice to say. It's the say weight as "how are you?" or "bless her heart" or "I'm fine, thanks."
BUT, sometime recently that one little saying completely changed for me, for us. Like, it is such a HUGE, tremendous statement- literally not one thing else matters to me as long as this little boy is healthy. I actually name organs in my prayers, "Let his kidneys be healthy, and his lungs be healthy and his eardrums be healthy, etc." I guess all those wise people that say things like this knew that it would hit me one day and then I would really be a mother.
Accomplishments? we finally hung most of the stuff on the walls in the nursery and I have ordered curtains. FINALLY!
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
These are a few of my random favorite things.... today
Favorite Quote:What if we woke up today
with only the things we had thanked God for yesterday. I have been thinking on this for several days now and trying to make a much more conscious effort to thank God for all of my many blessings.
Favorite Restaurant:DoDiYos
Its this amazing Greek-ish restaurant in Birmingham. Cannot wait to go back.
Favorite Perfume:
Favorite clothing store at the moment: Altar'd State
It is so neat inside. I didn't even realize it was christian based until we were leaving. Such neat gifts and things.
Favorite new find: Birchbox (thanks Leslie!!)
Favorite drink while preggo:
Sobe all natural Lifewater: Macintosh Apple Cherry.
SO GOOD. No calories/ Sugar!
Favorite fabric softener:
This stuff smells so so so good on sheets.
Snuggle Blue Iris and Bamboo Silk
Quite random... hope everyone has an awesome weekend!
with only the things we had thanked God for yesterday. I have been thinking on this for several days now and trying to make a much more conscious effort to thank God for all of my many blessings.
Favorite Restaurant:DoDiYos
Its this amazing Greek-ish restaurant in Birmingham. Cannot wait to go back.
Favorite Perfume:
Favorite clothing store at the moment: Altar'd State
It is so neat inside. I didn't even realize it was christian based until we were leaving. Such neat gifts and things.
Favorite new find: Birchbox (thanks Leslie!!)
Favorite drink while preggo:
Sobe all natural Lifewater: Macintosh Apple Cherry.
SO GOOD. No calories/ Sugar!
Favorite fabric softener:
This stuff smells so so so good on sheets.
Snuggle Blue Iris and Bamboo Silk
Quite random... hope everyone has an awesome weekend!
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
First day of Fourth Grade!
This is my little brother, Morgan. He is in FOURTH GRADE!!! Time has flown, I cannot believe he is so grown up. I remember vividly when he was born. He was a preemie and only weighed 3lbs 11oz. He sure has grown from there- he hardly meets a food that he doesnt like. In fact I dont think I have seen him turn his nose up at anything- he is pretty much an easy going kid. You can tell by the look on his face, he is excited to be back in school! Morgan is really smart and loves school. Plus he has awesome teachers this year- Mrs. Amborn (Martha, not Jordan) and Mrs. Nosser. Both so sweet and wonderful. Morgan is super excited about becoming an uncle. He is soooo glad that the baby is a boy. One of his buddies (Andy, mentioned in earlier post) is also becoming an uncle this year. I guess having older siblings is not so out of the ordinary anymore. Hope his first day back is wonderful!!!
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
31 Weeks and a BIG boy!
How far along? 31 Weeks
This is a pic of his little nose, lips and chin. precious. I love him so much already
Baby's size? The bump says size of a squash. The ultrasound said 3lbs 9oz 2 weeks ago. My chart says "large for date," sounds like he is going to be a big boy like his dad!
Weight gain? +13. "wow- that Nexium is really working!" says the nurse. (Ten pounds between visits- thanks.)
Sleep? What sleep?? The hip pain is KILLING me. I sleep with a body pillow every night and it doesn't seem to help.
Foods I am loving? Everything.
Foods I am hating? Nothing.
Symptoms? waddle waddle waddle... especially when I am tired.
Gender? Precious little sweet darling boy.
What I miss? Sleep and not feeling so big...
What I'm looking forward to? having my body back and my baby boy in my arms.
Emotions? worry... about everything and CRAZY awful dreams
Accomplishments? Nursery set up, linens in and walls painted!! yea!!! photos coming soon. Almost done with Bassinet. SO proud- Me, my mom, my grandmother and my sister all worked on it- 4 generations!! I am so happy with how its turning out. I dont know how to turn the pic- sorry :)
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Random Ramblings
Tuesday night, my sweet Mimi cooked for my sister and I. It was as wonderful as we had expected! She is such a good cook. She made Squash Bisque (my sisters request) and Pasta (for me). She received the pasta recipe a few years ago from a dear friend, Peggy Gouras, and we have been enjoying it ever since! Thanks Peggy!
If you are tired of BLT's from all those fresh tomatoes you have, this is a great recipe to use fresh tomatoes in.
Isle of Patmos Pasta
1 lb favorite pasta (like rigatoni)
4 peeled cloves of garlic
3/4 cup walnuts or pine nuts (we like Walnuts)
1 cup fresh washed Basil leaves
salt and pepper
Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1 cup of grated Parmesan Cheese
2 cups fresh tomatoes (cubed)
Cook pasta al dente. Place garlic, nuts, basil, salt, pepper and cheese in food processor. Pulse to combine. While machine is running, drizzle olive oil through feed tube, stopping to scrape occasionally. Meanwhile, in another pan with a drizzle of olive oil, heat tomatoes until very hot.
Layer pasta, pesto and top with tomatoes. Sprinkle extra cheese if you like.
In other news...
My dad turned 50 years old!! We honored him with a party at my aunts and it was wonderful!! He does so much for so many people. He is literally the most generous person I know. He is ALWAYS willing to help in whatever we have gotten ourselves into. He is usually the first to offer- he pretty much knows a little (or a lot) about everything... computers, cars, fixer-upper houses, electricity, building things, even cooking- he is our go-to guru!! We all wanted to make this birthday very special and I think we accomplished that! We made all of his favorite foods and had a table of his favorite sweets complete with a golf themed cake. His siblings surprised him with a Yetti cooler and I made a slide show of him and the family. He was surprised at how much we all had done and was so happy!! It was fun to see so many of his old friends... they probably have not all been in the same place since college.
....How Morgan and Dan spend their Sundays (where I would like to be now):
That is a water gun that Morgan is preparing to empty!
It is soooooo hot!
If you are tired of BLT's from all those fresh tomatoes you have, this is a great recipe to use fresh tomatoes in.
Isle of Patmos Pasta
1 lb favorite pasta (like rigatoni)
4 peeled cloves of garlic
3/4 cup walnuts or pine nuts (we like Walnuts)
1 cup fresh washed Basil leaves
salt and pepper
Extra Virgin Olive Oil
1 cup of grated Parmesan Cheese
2 cups fresh tomatoes (cubed)
Cook pasta al dente. Place garlic, nuts, basil, salt, pepper and cheese in food processor. Pulse to combine. While machine is running, drizzle olive oil through feed tube, stopping to scrape occasionally. Meanwhile, in another pan with a drizzle of olive oil, heat tomatoes until very hot.
Layer pasta, pesto and top with tomatoes. Sprinkle extra cheese if you like.
In other news...
My dad turned 50 years old!! We honored him with a party at my aunts and it was wonderful!! He does so much for so many people. He is literally the most generous person I know. He is ALWAYS willing to help in whatever we have gotten ourselves into. He is usually the first to offer- he pretty much knows a little (or a lot) about everything... computers, cars, fixer-upper houses, electricity, building things, even cooking- he is our go-to guru!! We all wanted to make this birthday very special and I think we accomplished that! We made all of his favorite foods and had a table of his favorite sweets complete with a golf themed cake. His siblings surprised him with a Yetti cooler and I made a slide show of him and the family. He was surprised at how much we all had done and was so happy!! It was fun to see so many of his old friends... they probably have not all been in the same place since college.
....How Morgan and Dan spend their Sundays (where I would like to be now):
That is a water gun that Morgan is preparing to empty!
It is soooooo hot!
Thursday, June 23, 2011
Are we there yet??
How far along? 25 weeks
Baby's size? roughly the size of an eggplant. I have to go to like three websites to decide which veggie is the least weird- a Rutabaga? an English Hothouse Cucumber? Are you kidding me??
Weight gain? +3 I was telling the doctor that I feel so big, it just cant be correct. She then explained to me that she thinks my hips have already spread. Thanks doc
Sleep? Not sleeping well. I sleep really well like one night a week. Dan fixed a pillow in a case where it doesn't go flat and that seems to be a huge improvement.
Foods I am loving? Everything.
Foods I am hating? Nothing.
Symptoms? Dan and I saw my whole stomach move for the first time on Monday- cool and weird all at the same time!
Gender? Precious little sweet darling boy.
What I miss? Sleep and not feeling so big...
What I'm looking forward to? having the house totally in order so that we can begin the nursery
Emotions? worry... about everything.
Accomplishments? guest bathroom back in business!!
So last post, I was complaining of constant heartburn. My Doctor changed my prescription from Pepcid to Nexium. I picked up my new medicine today at Kroger, Oh. my. gosh. This better be a miracle in a pill- $100 for 30 days. That is $3.33 a pill! Ummm INSANE! I have insurance that is a fortune, I go to the doctor that is a fortune, then I pay a fortune for medicine. What is wrong with this picture??? I am not claiming to know the answer to the health care crisis but there is most definitely something WRONG!!
(stepping off soapbox :) )
Hope everyone is having a good week!
Baby's size? roughly the size of an eggplant. I have to go to like three websites to decide which veggie is the least weird- a Rutabaga? an English Hothouse Cucumber? Are you kidding me??
Weight gain? +3 I was telling the doctor that I feel so big, it just cant be correct. She then explained to me that she thinks my hips have already spread. Thanks doc
Sleep? Not sleeping well. I sleep really well like one night a week. Dan fixed a pillow in a case where it doesn't go flat and that seems to be a huge improvement.
Foods I am loving? Everything.
Foods I am hating? Nothing.
Symptoms? Dan and I saw my whole stomach move for the first time on Monday- cool and weird all at the same time!
Gender? Precious little sweet darling boy.
What I miss? Sleep and not feeling so big...
What I'm looking forward to? having the house totally in order so that we can begin the nursery
Emotions? worry... about everything.
Accomplishments? guest bathroom back in business!!
So last post, I was complaining of constant heartburn. My Doctor changed my prescription from Pepcid to Nexium. I picked up my new medicine today at Kroger, Oh. my. gosh. This better be a miracle in a pill- $100 for 30 days. That is $3.33 a pill! Ummm INSANE! I have insurance that is a fortune, I go to the doctor that is a fortune, then I pay a fortune for medicine. What is wrong with this picture??? I am not claiming to know the answer to the health care crisis but there is most definitely something WRONG!!
(stepping off soapbox :) )
Hope everyone is having a good week!
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Time is flying!
I realize this blog has turned into a baby journal, but that has kinda been my life lately. Baby baby baby! We are really ready (we hope) for him to be here. I cannot cannot wait to look in his eyes- I am also really wondering how much hair he will have. I have been in heart burn hell for a while now. I think water gives me heartburn. Seriously.
How far along? 24 weeks
Baby's size? about the size of an ear of corn? where do they get this stuff- he HAS to be bigger than that! I can feel this guy kick!
Weight gain? Doc on Monday!
Sleep? increasingly worse- woke up at 4:00 wide awake, dying of thirst and pounding headache. My hips have really started to hurt when laying on my sides also.
Foods I am loving? yesterday I HAD TO HAVE a piece of fried chicken. Had to.
Foods I am hating? not hating anything at the moment- ate the Black and Blue Salad from Anchuca on Saturday with filet medallions and it was ah-mazing. Definitely would not have been able to eat this 2 months ago.
Symptoms? random aches and pains.... he is very active- I have not been able to pinpoint a schedule except that he moves more when I am still.
Gender? Precious little sweet darling boy.
What I miss? I would love some Baileys over ice. Also fitting into my clothes would be nice.
What I'm looking forward to? still looking forward to having the house totally in order so that we can begin the nursery. Think I have the paint color nailed down!
Emotions? worry... about everything. Odd dreams about my ability to protect the baby or even hold the baby. I have this dream where I pick him up from the crib and my arms just give out- and he falls. Pretty scary.
Accomplishments? Big Belly! does that count? people have stopped asking me if I am expecting, they just say "when are you due?"
How far along? 24 weeks
Baby's size? about the size of an ear of corn? where do they get this stuff- he HAS to be bigger than that! I can feel this guy kick!
Weight gain? Doc on Monday!
Sleep? increasingly worse- woke up at 4:00 wide awake, dying of thirst and pounding headache. My hips have really started to hurt when laying on my sides also.
Foods I am loving? yesterday I HAD TO HAVE a piece of fried chicken. Had to.
Foods I am hating? not hating anything at the moment- ate the Black and Blue Salad from Anchuca on Saturday with filet medallions and it was ah-mazing. Definitely would not have been able to eat this 2 months ago.
Symptoms? random aches and pains.... he is very active- I have not been able to pinpoint a schedule except that he moves more when I am still.
Gender? Precious little sweet darling boy.
What I miss? I would love some Baileys over ice. Also fitting into my clothes would be nice.
What I'm looking forward to? still looking forward to having the house totally in order so that we can begin the nursery. Think I have the paint color nailed down!
Emotions? worry... about everything. Odd dreams about my ability to protect the baby or even hold the baby. I have this dream where I pick him up from the crib and my arms just give out- and he falls. Pretty scary.
Accomplishments? Big Belly! does that count? people have stopped asking me if I am expecting, they just say "when are you due?"
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
How far along? 21 weeks
Baby's size? length of a carrot
Weight gain? +1
Sleep? still pretty good- waking up 2-3 alot to go to the bathroom!
Foods I am loving? Peanut Butter, Edy's Pineapple fruit bars. These are like popsicles, but better! soooo good and good for ya!
Foods I am hating? not hating anything at the moment- can tolerate some red meat but still would rather just stay away
Symptoms? some days, he is quiet as a mouse, then sometimes he plays soccer in there!
Gender? Precious little sweet darling boy.
What I miss? Dan took me to Babalu (its amazing- in Fondren. Do yourself a favor and get there.) last night- REALLY wanted a baba-rita
What I'm looking forward to? having the house totally in order so that we can begin the nursery
Emotions? worry... about everything.
Accomplishments? kitchen allllmost done!
So, we began our kitchen remodel with great intentions- we have wanted to do this since we moved in our house 3 yrs ago. Our house was built in 1950. Almost every room in the house has been updated except for the kitchen. It had original metal cabinets and yellow formica counter tops with a yellow (painted) ceiling. To make matters worse, the previous owners of the house attempted a cheap upgrade and painted the cabinets with regular paint. Regular paint does not stick to metal, in case you are wondering. Now, many of my lovely Vietri dishes have little specks of grey paint on the bottoms. So, with the baby coming, we figured its now or never. Well, my heart goes out to anyone that has remodeled a home. I feel like everything in my life is covered in sheet rock dust. It is a disheveling that is like none other. Our appliances are in our dining room, our dishes/pots/pans, etc. are in the nursery. Oh and did I mention half way through our little remodel, our guest bathroom starts leaking. Well, that room was next on the fixer-upper list so we figured what the heck, lets just go ahead and tile the floor while everything is out of there. So, if you are keeping a list, that is FOUR disheveled rooms in a >2,000 sq ft lovely nest.
BUT, we are just around the corner from the finish line at last! We have been incredibly blessed that our fantastic contractor/carpenter/designer/ man of many hats is none other than my own grandfather. He is such a blessing to us. Just having peace of mind that your best interests are at the heart of the person that is working in your home is golden. I am amazed every single day what he is able to accomplish with his own two hands. Incredibly special. Below are some before/after pics.
BEFORE:I did not make it home before the demo began- they had already removed the hanging cabinets. Just imagine the exact same cabinets hanging on the walls where the white spots are.
dividing wall that is now a bar:
notice Grandpaw working hard behind my stove :)!
AFTER: Ok ok, we are hoping to tile the floor/ paint the walls very soon but until this flood goes down and Dan gets a off day- its kinda impossible.
Sorry for such a long post! Happy Hump Day- hope everyone has a good week!
Baby's size? length of a carrot
Weight gain? +1
Sleep? still pretty good- waking up 2-3 alot to go to the bathroom!
Foods I am loving? Peanut Butter, Edy's Pineapple fruit bars. These are like popsicles, but better! soooo good and good for ya!
Foods I am hating? not hating anything at the moment- can tolerate some red meat but still would rather just stay away
Symptoms? some days, he is quiet as a mouse, then sometimes he plays soccer in there!
Gender? Precious little sweet darling boy.
What I miss? Dan took me to Babalu (its amazing- in Fondren. Do yourself a favor and get there.) last night- REALLY wanted a baba-rita
What I'm looking forward to? having the house totally in order so that we can begin the nursery
Emotions? worry... about everything.
Accomplishments? kitchen allllmost done!
So, we began our kitchen remodel with great intentions- we have wanted to do this since we moved in our house 3 yrs ago. Our house was built in 1950. Almost every room in the house has been updated except for the kitchen. It had original metal cabinets and yellow formica counter tops with a yellow (painted) ceiling. To make matters worse, the previous owners of the house attempted a cheap upgrade and painted the cabinets with regular paint. Regular paint does not stick to metal, in case you are wondering. Now, many of my lovely Vietri dishes have little specks of grey paint on the bottoms. So, with the baby coming, we figured its now or never. Well, my heart goes out to anyone that has remodeled a home. I feel like everything in my life is covered in sheet rock dust. It is a disheveling that is like none other. Our appliances are in our dining room, our dishes/pots/pans, etc. are in the nursery. Oh and did I mention half way through our little remodel, our guest bathroom starts leaking. Well, that room was next on the fixer-upper list so we figured what the heck, lets just go ahead and tile the floor while everything is out of there. So, if you are keeping a list, that is FOUR disheveled rooms in a >2,000 sq ft lovely nest.
BUT, we are just around the corner from the finish line at last! We have been incredibly blessed that our fantastic contractor/carpenter/designer/ man of many hats is none other than my own grandfather. He is such a blessing to us. Just having peace of mind that your best interests are at the heart of the person that is working in your home is golden. I am amazed every single day what he is able to accomplish with his own two hands. Incredibly special. Below are some before/after pics.
BEFORE:I did not make it home before the demo began- they had already removed the hanging cabinets. Just imagine the exact same cabinets hanging on the walls where the white spots are.
dividing wall that is now a bar:
notice Grandpaw working hard behind my stove :)!
AFTER: Ok ok, we are hoping to tile the floor/ paint the walls very soon but until this flood goes down and Dan gets a off day- its kinda impossible.
Sorry for such a long post! Happy Hump Day- hope everyone has a good week!
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
How far along? 19 Weeks
Baby's size? Mango- he sure does feel a lot bigger~
Weight gain? unsure- I have decided to only weigh at Doctor's office so that it is consistent. :)
Sleep? Sleeping OK still. It definitely feels better to sleep on my left side than my right... not sure why?
Foods I am loving? Spaghetti. Not just any spaghetti- my Gram's spaghetti. I want it every single day.
Foods I am hating? getting more tolerant to meat smells- still have no desire to eat red meat. I am starting to think baby Ratliff is going to be a veggie lover.
Symptoms? Feeling little flutters and kicks everyday now. ITS SO AMAZING.
Gender? Precious little sweet darling boy.
What I miss? nothing today!
What I'm looking forward to? seeing his little toes. I think they are going to be cute.
Emotions? Dan felt him for the very first time last night. After several days
of "did you feel that???!!!!, can you feel it??!!!!" and disappointing "no...." I was so excited and a little emotional when he finally said "Oh, my gosh. I.just.felt that."
Accomplishments? The kitchen remodel is nearing the end- YEA!!!
Baby's size? Mango- he sure does feel a lot bigger~
Weight gain? unsure- I have decided to only weigh at Doctor's office so that it is consistent. :)
Sleep? Sleeping OK still. It definitely feels better to sleep on my left side than my right... not sure why?
Foods I am loving? Spaghetti. Not just any spaghetti- my Gram's spaghetti. I want it every single day.
Foods I am hating? getting more tolerant to meat smells- still have no desire to eat red meat. I am starting to think baby Ratliff is going to be a veggie lover.
Symptoms? Feeling little flutters and kicks everyday now. ITS SO AMAZING.
Gender? Precious little sweet darling boy.
What I miss? nothing today!
What I'm looking forward to? seeing his little toes. I think they are going to be cute.
Emotions? Dan felt him for the very first time last night. After several days
of "did you feel that???!!!!, can you feel it??!!!!" and disappointing "no...." I was so excited and a little emotional when he finally said "Oh, my gosh. I.just.felt that."
Accomplishments? The kitchen remodel is nearing the end- YEA!!!
Friday, April 22, 2011
Its Official!
Snips and Snails and Puppy Dog Tails~
That's what little BOYS are made of!
We found out yesterday that we are having a baby boy. We are over the moon excited! To see him move and kick and play on the sonogram was a moment that can only be understood by someone that has witnessed it- It is such a moment between you and your creator, its indescribable. He was spinning around and swimming I guess... and he got the hiccups right there on the screen. It was incredible. Then, he stuck out his hand like he was waiving hello.
How far along? 16 weeks
Baby's size? Avocado: 6 ounces, Heartrate 157!
Weight gain? lost 3 pounds
Sleep? Sleeping ok- tossing and turning and bathroom breaks becoming the norm
Foods I am loving? Jelly Beans (thanks Marg!), SNO BIZ- Georgia Peach!
Foods I am hating? Bacon, Smoked foods, Seafood, Red Meat
Symptoms? Starting to feel "big" and round...
Gender? Dreams were spot- on! its a B-O-Y
What I miss? Margaritas, Baileys
What I'm looking forward to? Feeling him- ever since seeing him, its all I can think of!
Emotions? Hmmmm ask Dan :)
Accomplishments? found fabric for the bassinet
That's what little BOYS are made of!
We found out yesterday that we are having a baby boy. We are over the moon excited! To see him move and kick and play on the sonogram was a moment that can only be understood by someone that has witnessed it- It is such a moment between you and your creator, its indescribable. He was spinning around and swimming I guess... and he got the hiccups right there on the screen. It was incredible. Then, he stuck out his hand like he was waiving hello.
How far along? 16 weeks
Baby's size? Avocado: 6 ounces, Heartrate 157!
Weight gain? lost 3 pounds
Sleep? Sleeping ok- tossing and turning and bathroom breaks becoming the norm
Foods I am loving? Jelly Beans (thanks Marg!), SNO BIZ- Georgia Peach!
Foods I am hating? Bacon, Smoked foods, Seafood, Red Meat
Symptoms? Starting to feel "big" and round...
Gender? Dreams were spot- on! its a B-O-Y
What I miss? Margaritas, Baileys
What I'm looking forward to? Feeling him- ever since seeing him, its all I can think of!
Emotions? Hmmmm ask Dan :)
Accomplishments? found fabric for the bassinet
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
How far along? 14 weeks
Baby's size? Size of a Lemon 3.5 inches
Weight gain? at 12 weeks, I was back to normal from what I had lost, now I am thinking +3
Sleep? Sleeping fairly well, now that I am used to getting up a couple times during the night to go to the bathroom.
Foods I am loving? Minute Maid Tropical Punch, Orange Juice, Honey Dew Melon, Cheese, Jolly Rancher Popsicles, bread
Foods I am hating? Bacon, ANYTHING even the slightest hint smokey makes me gag, really, any type of smoke is super strong to me- AWFUL!! pretty much any red meat grosses me out, especially when cooking, still dont want to use the kitchen at all.
Symptoms? Nausea, bloating, get ridiculously tired- but getting better... now having a few really good days feeling energetic and excited! Heartburn- hair? already? loosing my train of thought.
Gender? We will find out in 16 days. Very excited. Had another dream 2 nights ago that it was a boy.
What I miss? feeling like the old me... will I ever love tomato sauce again? will I be able to eat freely without worry of heartburn?
What I'm looking forward to? feeling the baby move, getting to see the baby's face, getting the nursery done.
Emotions? slightly emotional- "One Born Every Minute" makes me cry.
Accomplishments? We purchased and put together the baby bed. I will post when I get better pictures. I am so happy with the color- it's pewter. This is crib:
Baby's size? Size of a Lemon 3.5 inches
Weight gain? at 12 weeks, I was back to normal from what I had lost, now I am thinking +3
Sleep? Sleeping fairly well, now that I am used to getting up a couple times during the night to go to the bathroom.
Foods I am loving? Minute Maid Tropical Punch, Orange Juice, Honey Dew Melon, Cheese, Jolly Rancher Popsicles, bread
Foods I am hating? Bacon, ANYTHING even the slightest hint smokey makes me gag, really, any type of smoke is super strong to me- AWFUL!! pretty much any red meat grosses me out, especially when cooking, still dont want to use the kitchen at all.
Symptoms? Nausea, bloating, get ridiculously tired- but getting better... now having a few really good days feeling energetic and excited! Heartburn- hair? already? loosing my train of thought.
Gender? We will find out in 16 days. Very excited. Had another dream 2 nights ago that it was a boy.
What I miss? feeling like the old me... will I ever love tomato sauce again? will I be able to eat freely without worry of heartburn?
What I'm looking forward to? feeling the baby move, getting to see the baby's face, getting the nursery done.
Emotions? slightly emotional- "One Born Every Minute" makes me cry.
Accomplishments? We purchased and put together the baby bed. I will post when I get better pictures. I am so happy with the color- it's pewter. This is crib:
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
And Baby makes THREE!
I am pregnant and over the moon with joy! I have never seen Daniel so excited- it is really fun to watch. I never imagined he would be so involved, but he is really into it! The rest of our family is really excited also (first grandbaby on both sides!) My little brother was confused at first, but upon hearing that that our sister would be an "aunt" he promptly declared "Oh, I cant wait until Courtney turns into an ant, I'm gonna squish her!!" His latest contribution to the name list is Lemony. "So that if yall have another one, it could be Limony." He says. Yea for the fruit family!
I am just starting to look at nursery stuff and I am overwhelmed at the ugly. I don't understand the whole "theme" thing. There was no "theme" at my wedding and there will be no "theme" in my nursery. Just simple, soothing and gender neutral. Something that begs you to touch it. Is that too much to ask?
Gender neutral- yes. We have decided to find out the sex. Not because I want to, but out of necessity, really. Nothing is gender neutral anymore. Everything is pink or blue- or duck yellow, and I don't want a house full of duck yellow. We would like to have more children and hopefully we will end up with boys and girls. I just think it's an awful waste not to be able to use the big stuff again and again. We are taking a gender poll. We thought it would be a landslide, but so far, it is pretty even! If you would like to contribute to the poll, leave a comment below! I am also having trouble deciding between an iron or wooden crib- there are pretty ones on both sides. Any suggestions? Wish me luck on the nursery search!
I am just starting to look at nursery stuff and I am overwhelmed at the ugly. I don't understand the whole "theme" thing. There was no "theme" at my wedding and there will be no "theme" in my nursery. Just simple, soothing and gender neutral. Something that begs you to touch it. Is that too much to ask?
Gender neutral- yes. We have decided to find out the sex. Not because I want to, but out of necessity, really. Nothing is gender neutral anymore. Everything is pink or blue- or duck yellow, and I don't want a house full of duck yellow. We would like to have more children and hopefully we will end up with boys and girls. I just think it's an awful waste not to be able to use the big stuff again and again. We are taking a gender poll. We thought it would be a landslide, but so far, it is pretty even! If you would like to contribute to the poll, leave a comment below! I am also having trouble deciding between an iron or wooden crib- there are pretty ones on both sides. Any suggestions? Wish me luck on the nursery search!
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
I love this guy
So... my little brother, Morgan, is pretty much the coolest kid ever. Like really a kid- he is 9! He is sooo much fun to be around. He is hilarious and says things like "I have a four-dad!" and then he tries to explain:
"You know..... like You, Courtney (my sister), me, and Dan!! (my husband) There are four of us!"
See what I mean? He comes up with all kinds of stuff that he has to explain to us. He really thought for a long time that Dan was his brother because he doesn't remember Dan not being around. And what can I say... we are not really the lovey-dovey smoochy infront of people type of couple.
Anyway, over the Christmas Holidays, Dan and I took Morgan and two of his buddies, Andy and Lane to a movie in Madison. In their words we went to the "greatest restaurant ever and saw the coolest movie everrrrr!!" Chik-fil-a and Gulliver's Travels.
Lane, Morgan, Andy
If you have not been around 9 year olds lately, this is the age where they constantly attempt to out-do one another with stories of things that they have done, even if its completely ridiculous. This provided a lot of entertainment for Dan and I. So we were on our way home and Dan and I are just listening to the convo in the back and all of a sudden we hear:
"oh yea, well this one time, I got SMOKED BY A TRAIN!"
I think that Dan swerved. Wondering if we had little superman in the back I said "Lane, what do you mean?" He calmly explained to me that on a trip, they were standing on a bridge and as the train went underneath, smoke came out of the top of the train and went everywhere.
Its all in the details.
"You know..... like You, Courtney (my sister), me, and Dan!! (my husband) There are four of us!"
See what I mean? He comes up with all kinds of stuff that he has to explain to us. He really thought for a long time that Dan was his brother because he doesn't remember Dan not being around. And what can I say... we are not really the lovey-dovey smoochy infront of people type of couple.
Anyway, over the Christmas Holidays, Dan and I took Morgan and two of his buddies, Andy and Lane to a movie in Madison. In their words we went to the "greatest restaurant ever and saw the coolest movie everrrrr!!" Chik-fil-a and Gulliver's Travels.
Lane, Morgan, AndyIf you have not been around 9 year olds lately, this is the age where they constantly attempt to out-do one another with stories of things that they have done, even if its completely ridiculous. This provided a lot of entertainment for Dan and I. So we were on our way home and Dan and I are just listening to the convo in the back and all of a sudden we hear:
"oh yea, well this one time, I got SMOKED BY A TRAIN!"
I think that Dan swerved. Wondering if we had little superman in the back I said "Lane, what do you mean?" He calmly explained to me that on a trip, they were standing on a bridge and as the train went underneath, smoke came out of the top of the train and went everywhere.
Its all in the details.
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