Happy Birthday to my precious, perfect, beautiful, blessing, Godsent daughter.
One year ago today, we were sitting in the waiting room at the hospital waiting for updates on how Juno was and trying to control our racing hearts. It was on that date that our lives changed forever. Who knew our hearts could love one tiny little person so much that they would feel like they could burst? This little girl makes me smile so much - every single day. At night I still go in to her room and watch her sleep, with tears welling up in my eyes, and marvel at her beauty, her grace, and the realization that she is my daughter.
She has changed and grown so much over the last year. She is becoming the girl she was meant to be - happy, loved, and full of life. She dances all the time. She laughs constantly. She grabs our faces with her perfect little hands and gives us kisses. She's so loving and kind, smart, curious, and she's our daughter.
Thank you, Juno, for making what was probably the hardest decision I hope you'll ever have to make. And thank you, God, for choosing us to be Ukulele's parents.
We are eternally grateful.
Thursday, December 17, 2009
Monday, December 14, 2009
Fertil-ly Ungrateful
Yes, Fertil-ly is now a word.
I just wasted the last hour reading the comments to another persons blog post. Another blog writer posted a question about handling motherhood and how you want your old life back. I scoured over 100 comments looking for one - JUST ONE - from a mother who cherished motherhood even half the time. What I found was over 100 comments from mothers who got pregnant "unexpectedly," or their pregnancy was "unplanned," or their pregnancy was "unwanted." Now, as a caveat, they do all appear to love their children - despite their role of motherhood. But I am appalled at how much these women bitched and totally did not appreciate the absolute miracle involved in being able to create a child.
I wanted to post something so badly about the whole thing, but I was (and am) just too disgusted by it all.
No need to look for the blog link on my sidebar. I've removed it. I seriously doubt my readers would be sympathic to these whining baby makers.
If you'll excuse me, I need to go throw up. That blog has made me sick to my stomach.
I just wasted the last hour reading the comments to another persons blog post. Another blog writer posted a question about handling motherhood and how you want your old life back. I scoured over 100 comments looking for one - JUST ONE - from a mother who cherished motherhood even half the time. What I found was over 100 comments from mothers who got pregnant "unexpectedly," or their pregnancy was "unplanned," or their pregnancy was "unwanted." Now, as a caveat, they do all appear to love their children - despite their role of motherhood. But I am appalled at how much these women bitched and totally did not appreciate the absolute miracle involved in being able to create a child.
I wanted to post something so badly about the whole thing, but I was (and am) just too disgusted by it all.
No need to look for the blog link on my sidebar. I've removed it. I seriously doubt my readers would be sympathic to these whining baby makers.
If you'll excuse me, I need to go throw up. That blog has made me sick to my stomach.
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Getting Old(er)
On Tuesday I turned 39. On that day I was supposed to do my List of Thirty-Nine. If you recall, I did a List of Thirty-Eight last year, and one of the items was to do the next year's list. As you can tell, that didn't happen. GatorMan could tell, also. So, for my 39th birthday, he has been giving me things to help me complete some of the items on my list (a cork board for my vision board; a journal to start my List of Thirty Nine; three blank canvases for the tryptic painting).
I'm working on that list. I'm going to be more thoughtful about the items I put on it, and hopefully a little more realistic. The seemingly easier things (drinking water, making bed, walking dog) ended up being the hardest. This is definitely a work-in-progress. But after reviewing the List of Thirty-Eight, I think I did alright overall.
One thing I am going to try to work on a little more diligently is writing in the blog. (I obviously still need to change the header to reflect the new blog name....) I really do not have any excuse (except for lack of content inspiration) for not writing. I log in every single day to keep up with everyone else's goings-ons.
So here we go again. Hopefully the older I get, the wiser I will get.... and more disciplined!
I'm working on that list. I'm going to be more thoughtful about the items I put on it, and hopefully a little more realistic. The seemingly easier things (drinking water, making bed, walking dog) ended up being the hardest. This is definitely a work-in-progress. But after reviewing the List of Thirty-Eight, I think I did alright overall.
One thing I am going to try to work on a little more diligently is writing in the blog. (I obviously still need to change the header to reflect the new blog name....) I really do not have any excuse (except for lack of content inspiration) for not writing. I log in every single day to keep up with everyone else's goings-ons.
So here we go again. Hopefully the older I get, the wiser I will get.... and more disciplined!
Monday, October 19, 2009
Seriously???
Ukulele had a little accident last night. She got into a fight with the tv console, and I think the console won.* Anyway, while going through the "internets" for a little medical research regarding her bruised eyelid, I came across a website called "pedia.tric on.call" (all one word). This is a website maintained by doctors. DOCTORS! However, just because you are doctor does not mean that you are intelligent.
They listed "adoption" as a "childhood ailment." I'm not joking. Check it out yourself here. Just take a gander at the list on the right, and sit in amazement (and bewilderment) as I did.
* She's fine, by the way.... the tv console was appropriately punished.
They listed "adoption" as a "childhood ailment." I'm not joking. Check it out yourself here. Just take a gander at the list on the right, and sit in amazement (and bewilderment) as I did.
* She's fine, by the way.... the tv console was appropriately punished.
Thursday, October 15, 2009
Whirled Peas
Whirled Peas DO NOT equal World Peace. Or at least they do not equal Night Peace. We have finally realized, the hard way, that Ukulele should not have peas for dinner. Every time she has peas for dinner, we are in for a night of fussing, crying, and no sleep. Last night was no exception. I think they give her heartburn. At 12:30 we finally broke down and brought her in our room, with her swing, and let her sleep there. After a handful of middle-of-the-night cries, I moved her back to her room around 6:15. Poor little thing. Actually, poor little mom and dad.....
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
One Year Old
Happy Birthday to my little blog. I started blogging about the Ukulele one year ago today. Although my blog has not grown that much - my life with Ukulele surely has. It's amazing how much my life has changed in the last year.... all for the better. Thank you - to everyone - who has traveled along with me. Although my posts have become few-and-far between, I'm still following all of your lives on a regular basis. So thank you - to you - for letting me go along for your rides as well. It's quite the little family we have, isn't it!?!
Friday, September 18, 2009
A Response from Westin!
So... a day after the nasty-gram was sent, here is the response from Westin:
Dear Ms. Ukulele,
Thank you for your inquiry via the Westin.com website. We appreciate the time you have taken to share your comments on current advertised offer. Please be assured that your input will serve as a valuable tool in the evaluation and enhancement of the products and services that we offer our guests.
I apologize for any inconvenience you may have experienced as a result of this.
Thank you for contacting Westin Hotels & Resorts Worldwide. If you have any further customer service questions or concerns, please feel free to contact us at westin@westin.com.
Best Regards,
Ms. So-and-So Specialist,
E-Communications Department Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide
GatorMan and I agree that this response seems to be pieced together from various customer-service form response emails. Quite humorous, actually. I cannot say that I was inconvenienced by their promotion, but okay. My guess is that this girl got the email and had no clue what to do with it! Hopefully my email was passed along to someone who can actually do something about the ridicululousness of their promotions in the future.
Dear Ms. Ukulele,
Thank you for your inquiry via the Westin.com website. We appreciate the time you have taken to share your comments on current advertised offer. Please be assured that your input will serve as a valuable tool in the evaluation and enhancement of the products and services that we offer our guests.
I apologize for any inconvenience you may have experienced as a result of this.
Thank you for contacting Westin Hotels & Resorts Worldwide. If you have any further customer service questions or concerns, please feel free to contact us at westin@westin.com.
Best Regards,
Ms. So-and-So Specialist,
E-Communications Department Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide
GatorMan and I agree that this response seems to be pieced together from various customer-service form response emails. Quite humorous, actually. I cannot say that I was inconvenienced by their promotion, but okay. My guess is that this girl got the email and had no clue what to do with it! Hopefully my email was passed along to someone who can actually do something about the ridicululousness of their promotions in the future.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Add One to the List of Boycotts
Add another one to the list of boycotts.
This month's offender --
WESTIN HOTELS
Their latest promotion is that if you can prove that you conceived a child while on vacation at their resort, you will get a discount on your stay there. They'll accept a doctor's note as proof.
How about this, Westin: will you accept a doctor's note that says your business model resembles that of a jackass? Actually, I think I'll send them a little nasty-gram right now. Click HERE for the story if you feel like vomiting today.
Running list of my boycotted companies so far:
Volkswagen
Huggies
Westin
This month's offender --
WESTIN HOTELS
Their latest promotion is that if you can prove that you conceived a child while on vacation at their resort, you will get a discount on your stay there. They'll accept a doctor's note as proof.
How about this, Westin: will you accept a doctor's note that says your business model resembles that of a jackass? Actually, I think I'll send them a little nasty-gram right now. Click HERE for the story if you feel like vomiting today.
Running list of my boycotted companies so far:
Volkswagen
Huggies
Westin
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Randomness
1. I still have not had GatorMan change my heading yet.... but it will happen. Hopefully soon. We are just too exhausted every day when we get home. And, for my day job, I am on the computer all day.... the last thing I want to do is be on it at home.
2. Ukulele is almost sitting by herself now! When her back gets tired, she'll do that "slow-motion-forward-fall" that is just so adorable. Also, she is rolling EVERYWHERE. If I turn my back, she's gone. I can usually find her sucking on the leg of the coffee table, or pulling the dog's ears. She's also rolling over in the middle of the night. Scares the crap out of me. But, from what I understand, if she can roll over, and then roll back the other way, she's fine. Still scares me though.
3. I bought her halloween costume. She's going to be a lobster. Too flippin' cute! We thought it was appropriate since we live on the ocean. I guess GatorMan and I will be fishermen.
4. Tomorrow pre-season starts for the Dallas Cowboys... FINALLY! Ukulele's Cowboy onesie is all ready to go!
5. Ukulele is growing like a weed. She got her final shot in her shot series today (we have them split up) and the nurse weighed her..... at almost 8 months she is weighing 20 lbs 4 ounces! Yikes! And she is now in 9-12 month clothes. Speaking of, where can we find one-piece-footie-pajamas for a 12 month old? I can find 9 months and under everywhere - but no 12 month old. With her rolling over in her crib, I do not want a 2-piece pajama that she can potentially get tangled up in.
6. GatorMan's cousin is living with us now. So far everything is going well. Hope it stays that way!
7. Ukulele's one year birthday is coming up.... I need to start planning a party for her. We are going to have it the weekend before her actual birthday. The weekend after her birthday is just too close to Christmas... and in the south, everyone throws Christmas parties. I do not want her to get lost in that jumble.
8. And after Ukulele turns one, we are getting back on the adoption list. :)
2. Ukulele is almost sitting by herself now! When her back gets tired, she'll do that "slow-motion-forward-fall" that is just so adorable. Also, she is rolling EVERYWHERE. If I turn my back, she's gone. I can usually find her sucking on the leg of the coffee table, or pulling the dog's ears. She's also rolling over in the middle of the night. Scares the crap out of me. But, from what I understand, if she can roll over, and then roll back the other way, she's fine. Still scares me though.
3. I bought her halloween costume. She's going to be a lobster. Too flippin' cute! We thought it was appropriate since we live on the ocean. I guess GatorMan and I will be fishermen.
4. Tomorrow pre-season starts for the Dallas Cowboys... FINALLY! Ukulele's Cowboy onesie is all ready to go!
5. Ukulele is growing like a weed. She got her final shot in her shot series today (we have them split up) and the nurse weighed her..... at almost 8 months she is weighing 20 lbs 4 ounces! Yikes! And she is now in 9-12 month clothes. Speaking of, where can we find one-piece-footie-pajamas for a 12 month old? I can find 9 months and under everywhere - but no 12 month old. With her rolling over in her crib, I do not want a 2-piece pajama that she can potentially get tangled up in.
6. GatorMan's cousin is living with us now. So far everything is going well. Hope it stays that way!
7. Ukulele's one year birthday is coming up.... I need to start planning a party for her. We are going to have it the weekend before her actual birthday. The weekend after her birthday is just too close to Christmas... and in the south, everyone throws Christmas parties. I do not want her to get lost in that jumble.
8. And after Ukulele turns one, we are getting back on the adoption list. :)
Thursday, August 6, 2009
New Blog Name Winner!
First of all, thank you to all who submitted recommendations. Everyone is so much more creative than I am, and I really appreciate all of your input!
And without further ado.....
Congrats to Murgdan for inspiring a new blog name. She recommended a blog name based on an article she included a link to. I read the article, and it was great. Basically, it said that when you are down you can pick up a ukulele to put yourself in a better mood.
How true is that?!?!
So, although I am not using her proposed blog name verbatim, it did inspire my new one:
When You're Down, Pick Up Your Ukulele
I know it works for me. Every. Single. Time. :)
So Murgdan, I will be contacting you regarding the details on your new kitsch!
(*Also, my title bar will change as soon as I convince GatorMan to help me with it!!!)
And without further ado.....
Congrats to Murgdan for inspiring a new blog name. She recommended a blog name based on an article she included a link to. I read the article, and it was great. Basically, it said that when you are down you can pick up a ukulele to put yourself in a better mood.
How true is that?!?!
So, although I am not using her proposed blog name verbatim, it did inspire my new one:
When You're Down, Pick Up Your Ukulele
I know it works for me. Every. Single. Time. :)
So Murgdan, I will be contacting you regarding the details on your new kitsch!
(*Also, my title bar will change as soon as I convince GatorMan to help me with it!!!)
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
New Blog Name Contest
GatorMan eloquently pointed out to me a few weeks ago that I should consider changing the blog name. We are no longer "waiting" on our Ukulele ~ she's here in full swing.
So, I'm asking for help. I need a new blog name. I'd like to keep "Ukulele" in it. And if it helps, I know that we are going to start the adoption process again after Ukulele turns 1. So, I was thinking something along the lines of a band of ukuleles . . . or something. I don't know. I'm at a loss. Help.
And to entice some entries, I'll send the person submitting the winning name a hula girl. Miniature, of course. The kind for your car. Or desk. It's probably illegal to actually "send" a live hula girl. Even if it was legal, I could not afford to ship her from Hawaii. I'll keep the contest open for one week. The winning blog name will be announced on Thursday, August 6. Thanks!
So, I'm asking for help. I need a new blog name. I'd like to keep "Ukulele" in it. And if it helps, I know that we are going to start the adoption process again after Ukulele turns 1. So, I was thinking something along the lines of a band of ukuleles . . . or something. I don't know. I'm at a loss. Help.
And to entice some entries, I'll send the person submitting the winning name a hula girl. Miniature, of course. The kind for your car. Or desk. It's probably illegal to actually "send" a live hula girl. Even if it was legal, I could not afford to ship her from Hawaii. I'll keep the contest open for one week. The winning blog name will be announced on Thursday, August 6. Thanks!
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Monster in the Closet
Ok, here is my second attempt at this post.....
The other night I was putting Ukulele to bed. She usually goes down pretty easily and falls asleep on her own. As this was happening, I started to wonder how long it would be before she became of afraid of being along.... afraid of "monsters in the closet." That led to the pondering of what causes those fears. Is it movies? Is it books? Who knows? I, in my infinite-new-parent-wisdom, have decided it is movies AND books. Therefore, GatorMan and I have agreed to go through her books (and yes, she does have some movies already - start handing out the parent-of-the-year awards to us!) and weed out the ones that have scary monsters or bad people in them. That should be pretty easy. Movies, on the other hand, are going to be a little trickier.
I started thinking of all the Dis.ney and Pix.ar movies we have (hand-me-downs, by the way!), and what type of character are in them. I have to tell you that I am hard-pressed to find a Dis.ney movie that does not have some sort of villian or monster in it. Even Bam.bi - poor thing gets to watch his mother get blasted away! Beautiful Ariel from Litt.le Merm.aid?.... Ursu.la scares ME - can only imagine what she would do to a toddler! And Pix.ar. While I lovelovelove this movie company for their secretly hidden adult humor, their movies are totally inappropriate for my purposes at the present time.
There are some videos that I think are acceptable so far.... such as Ba.by Eins.tein, Le.ap Fr.og learning, and Veg.gie Ta.les. Does anyone have any other suggestions???
As a side note, GatorMan and I bought a Class.ic Cart.oon dvd a couple of years ago. I watched some of it last night.... and holy crap! Talk about politically incorrect and violent! I do not remember cartoons being so bad as a child.... but apparently they were! Sheesh.
The other night I was putting Ukulele to bed. She usually goes down pretty easily and falls asleep on her own. As this was happening, I started to wonder how long it would be before she became of afraid of being along.... afraid of "monsters in the closet." That led to the pondering of what causes those fears. Is it movies? Is it books? Who knows? I, in my infinite-new-parent-wisdom, have decided it is movies AND books. Therefore, GatorMan and I have agreed to go through her books (and yes, she does have some movies already - start handing out the parent-of-the-year awards to us!) and weed out the ones that have scary monsters or bad people in them. That should be pretty easy. Movies, on the other hand, are going to be a little trickier.
I started thinking of all the Dis.ney and Pix.ar movies we have (hand-me-downs, by the way!), and what type of character are in them. I have to tell you that I am hard-pressed to find a Dis.ney movie that does not have some sort of villian or monster in it. Even Bam.bi - poor thing gets to watch his mother get blasted away! Beautiful Ariel from Litt.le Merm.aid?.... Ursu.la scares ME - can only imagine what she would do to a toddler! And Pix.ar. While I lovelovelove this movie company for their secretly hidden adult humor, their movies are totally inappropriate for my purposes at the present time.
There are some videos that I think are acceptable so far.... such as Ba.by Eins.tein, Le.ap Fr.og learning, and Veg.gie Ta.les. Does anyone have any other suggestions???
As a side note, GatorMan and I bought a Class.ic Cart.oon dvd a couple of years ago. I watched some of it last night.... and holy crap! Talk about politically incorrect and violent! I do not remember cartoons being so bad as a child.... but apparently they were! Sheesh.
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
Hate Blo.gger
I had an entire post entitled "Monsters in the Closet" written and almost ready to post. I went to change one single line before I posted, and Blo.gger deleted half of the entire post. I hate Blo.gger.
I'll try to recreate the post later. Right now I am too mad at this program to monkey with it anymore today!
I'll try to recreate the post later. Right now I am too mad at this program to monkey with it anymore today!
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Lunchtime Discussion on Gender Change
Today I was having lunch with two of my girlfriends. We got into a discussion about Chast.ity "Ch.az" Bo.no and her sex change. I commented that the press is taking great care in addressing her as a "him" now. First of all, let me tell you that I have no problem whatsoever with someone choosing to have a sex change. Totally up to him or her.
But here's my problem with the whole situation. The way the media treats it.
"Huh?" you ask. If you notice, almost every news/media outlet will address her as a "him" now. Almost every single one. However, how do they address the children of Angel.ina Jol.ie, Nic.ole Kid.man, or any other adoptive mother? They differentiate the children. They will say so-and-so gave birth to _____ and she has x-number of adopted children. The adopted children are always listed as such.
Are adopted children so taboo with the press that they have to distinguish them from their siblings?
*** As a side note, Production, Not Reproduction had one of her blog posts published in this months Adopt.ive Fam.ilies. Also, there was a letter to the editor by another adoptive parent who was just as peeved with Hugg.ies as I was!
But here's my problem with the whole situation. The way the media treats it.
"Huh?" you ask. If you notice, almost every news/media outlet will address her as a "him" now. Almost every single one. However, how do they address the children of Angel.ina Jol.ie, Nic.ole Kid.man, or any other adoptive mother? They differentiate the children. They will say so-and-so gave birth to _____ and she has x-number of adopted children. The adopted children are always listed as such.
Are adopted children so taboo with the press that they have to distinguish them from their siblings?
*** As a side note, Production, Not Reproduction had one of her blog posts published in this months Adopt.ive Fam.ilies. Also, there was a letter to the editor by another adoptive parent who was just as peeved with Hugg.ies as I was!
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
I'm Still Here
Sorry that I have been absent from the blogging world for awhile. I've actually been lurking quite a bit. There's just a LOT going on in my life right now, and sadly it has impacted my time to blog. I hope that situation is rectified soon.
I want to give a quick shout-out to my new blog friend who just moved here. It was great hanging out with you and I hope we can do it again SOON!
I want to give a quick shout-out to my new blog friend who just moved here. It was great hanging out with you and I hope we can do it again SOON!
Monday, May 25, 2009
This is a f*&^ing joke, right?
New Huggies commercial:
You can win Huggies for a year if you do the following:
"Unite male chromosones with a female egg. Once fertilized you must retain a radiant glow for about nine months, after morning sickness. Frequent emotional mood swings are optional. You are required to put up with people touching your belly morning, noon and night. After being rushed to the hospital you must experience....a miracle".
Seriously? Thank God I only buy Pampers. Jackasses. Let me guess, adoptive parents cannot qualify because they do not get to experience the "miracle" of childbirth. I sense an ADA complaint being filed somewhere.
They'll probably deliver your diapers in that stupid Volkswagen that makes women want to procreate just so they can drive it.
You can win Huggies for a year if you do the following:
"Unite male chromosones with a female egg. Once fertilized you must retain a radiant glow for about nine months, after morning sickness. Frequent emotional mood swings are optional. You are required to put up with people touching your belly morning, noon and night. After being rushed to the hospital you must experience....a miracle".
Seriously? Thank God I only buy Pampers. Jackasses. Let me guess, adoptive parents cannot qualify because they do not get to experience the "miracle" of childbirth. I sense an ADA complaint being filed somewhere.
They'll probably deliver your diapers in that stupid Volkswagen that makes women want to procreate just so they can drive it.
Monday, May 4, 2009
Dentist Drama
I have been going to the same dentist for approximately ten years now. L - O - V - E him! Love my dental hygienist, love the staff, location, everything. Never ever have I had a problem. Dr. Dainty-Drill has always been fantastic - and gentle. I'm one of those odd people who actually enjoys getting her teeth cleaned - and I do not fear the drill (should it occasionally be necessary).
Dr. Dainty-Drill has decided to retire. Who can blame him? I'd retire if I could. So he has brought in a young lad - whom we'll call Dr. Drill-Bit. Dr. Drill-Bit has been there for almost a year now. Great guy - easy to get along with - seems very thorough in his check-ups.
Well last Monday, at my regularly scheduled cleaning, two tiny cavities decided to appear. So my appointment was this morning to get that little indiscretion in my mouth taken care of. Dr. Drill-Bit did the honors.
I no likey anymore.
Dr. Drill-Bit is now going to be Dr. Drill-BITE. If he tries to stick any electrically powered instrument in my mouth, I will bite. He was so rough in pulling my cheek and mouth, that it is raw in the corner of my mouth. The Novocaine shot hurt so bad it made my eyes water (that's a first at the dentist - even though I am terrified of needles). My jaw hurts so bad right now I could barely chew my tuna-fish sandwich which was on soft white bread. (Notice the past tense of that sentence... I made do and painfully gobbled it down anyway.) I really would not be surprised if my jaw and/or cheek are not bruised later on today. And it's not like I have a small mouth that has very little room to work. There should be ample space in there.
I have never had such an uncomfortable experience at the dentist - even as a child.
So here's the quandary. I WILL get a cavity again in my life. That's just the way my mouth rolls. I still love the staff, hygienist, location, etc. And I still like Dr. Drill-Bite's personality and bedside manner. It's his execution that I take issue with. So when that cavity appears - do I go to another dentist? It's like going to a new hairdresser - you don't want to cheat because they ALWAYS know.
I think I am going to speak to my hygienist (whom I'm friends with) and let her know what's going on. Maybe I'm not the first to complain. Maybe I am. Oh such a slippery slope. I really do not want to go to a new dentist. And another fear? If Dr. Drill-Bite really is that rough, there is no way in *bleep* that I am going to send Ukulele there. Fuhgetaboutit.
What would you do?
Dr. Dainty-Drill has decided to retire. Who can blame him? I'd retire if I could. So he has brought in a young lad - whom we'll call Dr. Drill-Bit. Dr. Drill-Bit has been there for almost a year now. Great guy - easy to get along with - seems very thorough in his check-ups.
Well last Monday, at my regularly scheduled cleaning, two tiny cavities decided to appear. So my appointment was this morning to get that little indiscretion in my mouth taken care of. Dr. Drill-Bit did the honors.
I no likey anymore.
Dr. Drill-Bit is now going to be Dr. Drill-BITE. If he tries to stick any electrically powered instrument in my mouth, I will bite. He was so rough in pulling my cheek and mouth, that it is raw in the corner of my mouth. The Novocaine shot hurt so bad it made my eyes water (that's a first at the dentist - even though I am terrified of needles). My jaw hurts so bad right now I could barely chew my tuna-fish sandwich which was on soft white bread. (Notice the past tense of that sentence... I made do and painfully gobbled it down anyway.) I really would not be surprised if my jaw and/or cheek are not bruised later on today. And it's not like I have a small mouth that has very little room to work. There should be ample space in there.
I have never had such an uncomfortable experience at the dentist - even as a child.
So here's the quandary. I WILL get a cavity again in my life. That's just the way my mouth rolls. I still love the staff, hygienist, location, etc. And I still like Dr. Drill-Bite's personality and bedside manner. It's his execution that I take issue with. So when that cavity appears - do I go to another dentist? It's like going to a new hairdresser - you don't want to cheat because they ALWAYS know.
I think I am going to speak to my hygienist (whom I'm friends with) and let her know what's going on. Maybe I'm not the first to complain. Maybe I am. Oh such a slippery slope. I really do not want to go to a new dentist. And another fear? If Dr. Drill-Bite really is that rough, there is no way in *bleep* that I am going to send Ukulele there. Fuhgetaboutit.
What would you do?
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Thank You
As I sit here tonight trying to figure out what to write, I keep thinking of all of you and the journeys you are all on and where you have been.....
I have to give a shout-out to my fellow bloggers who are getting ready to start their IVF and IUI cycles (or are currently IN them). Good luck Ladies! I love reading your blogs and keeping up with everything.
I pray for ALL of you nightly - no matter what you are going through. It is so blatantly clear how much love we all have in our hearts - and yet we were dealt a horrible, horrible, hand. Life can really suck sometimes - and it definitely doesn't seem fair. Today I almost posted the headlines from a few news sources.... headlines about clearly unfit people being parents. I wanted to talk about all these people who do not appreciate the gift(s) they have been given. As I was collecting the articles, I realized I did not need to point out the obvious to the readers of this blog. We all know that infertility is a crazy ass bitch. Instead I took a moment and thought about how strong all of you are.....
You, (well, actually "we") have all endured so much more than we ever thought we could. We've each been pushed to our breaking point - yet here we are - holding each other up. Many of us have created strong bonds of friendship without ever meeting each other. I know I have personally cried over your losses, laughed at your crazy mishaps, bitched at the stupid people who make your lives even more difficult than they already are, and I have smiled with pure joy at your accomplishments - no matter how large or small. My heart swells with excitement when an adoption is finalized, two lines show up, a beta increases, or you just decide to take the next step in this horrific journey.
We are a truly unique group of people. Broken in some respects - but stronger than those more fortunate. You read that correctly - MORE fortunate. Stronger in that we have not thrown in the towel. Our bodies are broken - but not our spirits. We've been dealt a shitty hand. So what do we do? We slam the cards down and demand a new deal. Maybe our new deal is trying DE, IVF, IUI, surrogate, adoption. It doesn't matter. We want the final outcome of our cards to build a house with a child in it. We keep playing and changing our strategy. We're motivated. We're educated. We're determined.
We are definitely a unique group. A group that I never ever wanted to be a part of. I joined this group involuntarily. I joined kicking and screaming. Now that I'm here - I cannot imagine being anywhere else. Without joining this group, I would not have become a Mom to Ukulele. I would not have *met* so many of you who feel like sisters and true friends. I would not have wholly appreciated and understood how truly precious life is. I feel that I am a better person since I have become part of this exclusive and elite group of women. So thank you - all of you . You inspire me.
Okay - back to my regular snarky self next post. Mushy-ness over.
I have to give a shout-out to my fellow bloggers who are getting ready to start their IVF and IUI cycles (or are currently IN them). Good luck Ladies! I love reading your blogs and keeping up with everything.
I pray for ALL of you nightly - no matter what you are going through. It is so blatantly clear how much love we all have in our hearts - and yet we were dealt a horrible, horrible, hand. Life can really suck sometimes - and it definitely doesn't seem fair. Today I almost posted the headlines from a few news sources.... headlines about clearly unfit people being parents. I wanted to talk about all these people who do not appreciate the gift(s) they have been given. As I was collecting the articles, I realized I did not need to point out the obvious to the readers of this blog. We all know that infertility is a crazy ass bitch. Instead I took a moment and thought about how strong all of you are.....
You, (well, actually "we") have all endured so much more than we ever thought we could. We've each been pushed to our breaking point - yet here we are - holding each other up. Many of us have created strong bonds of friendship without ever meeting each other. I know I have personally cried over your losses, laughed at your crazy mishaps, bitched at the stupid people who make your lives even more difficult than they already are, and I have smiled with pure joy at your accomplishments - no matter how large or small. My heart swells with excitement when an adoption is finalized, two lines show up, a beta increases, or you just decide to take the next step in this horrific journey.
We are a truly unique group of people. Broken in some respects - but stronger than those more fortunate. You read that correctly - MORE fortunate. Stronger in that we have not thrown in the towel. Our bodies are broken - but not our spirits. We've been dealt a shitty hand. So what do we do? We slam the cards down and demand a new deal. Maybe our new deal is trying DE, IVF, IUI, surrogate, adoption. It doesn't matter. We want the final outcome of our cards to build a house with a child in it. We keep playing and changing our strategy. We're motivated. We're educated. We're determined.
We are definitely a unique group. A group that I never ever wanted to be a part of. I joined this group involuntarily. I joined kicking and screaming. Now that I'm here - I cannot imagine being anywhere else. Without joining this group, I would not have become a Mom to Ukulele. I would not have *met* so many of you who feel like sisters and true friends. I would not have wholly appreciated and understood how truly precious life is. I feel that I am a better person since I have become part of this exclusive and elite group of women. So thank you - all of you . You inspire me.
Okay - back to my regular snarky self next post. Mushy-ness over.
Monday, April 20, 2009
Com.cast vs. NFL
May 1 is quickly approaching. We need to decide if we are going to switch to Direc.tTV or some other satelite service prior to that time. Right now we have Com.cast and our status as subscribers is about to come to a screeching halt.
You see, Com.cast carries the NFL Net.work. NFL Net.work would like their channel to be free. However, Com.cast (being the greedy cable monopolist that it is) has been charging for it, and NFL is not happy. Therefore, NFL is yanking their channel come May 1.
GatorMan and I are NOT happy. We are both NFL fans (although different teams), and watch that channel religiously.
So.... come May 1, we will most likely have a new service provider... which means we probably need to scope out new internet service as well (since Com.cast has the monopoly on that in our house). We do not have landline phones, so our internet service will most likely be DSL.
Am I going to miss Com.cast? Decidedly "no." But you may want to ask me again when it's raining.
You see, Com.cast carries the NFL Net.work. NFL Net.work would like their channel to be free. However, Com.cast (being the greedy cable monopolist that it is) has been charging for it, and NFL is not happy. Therefore, NFL is yanking their channel come May 1.
GatorMan and I are NOT happy. We are both NFL fans (although different teams), and watch that channel religiously.
So.... come May 1, we will most likely have a new service provider... which means we probably need to scope out new internet service as well (since Com.cast has the monopoly on that in our house). We do not have landline phones, so our internet service will most likely be DSL.
Am I going to miss Com.cast? Decidedly "no." But you may want to ask me again when it's raining.
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Tax Man Cometh . . .
. . . but not taketh our money!
Yay! Taxes are done - and surprise of all surprises - we are getting a return! WooHoo! We were not able to claim Ukulele as an exemption for 2008 because her adoption was not finalized until 2009... nor were we able to claim her as a dependant even though we were her legal guardians in 2008 (aparently there is some six month time-frame-thingy). Whatev. We are still getting a return which is quite the shock.
How will that money be spent? Hmmm.... let's count the possibilities:
1. Partially pay for new roof. It was raining in our master bath yesterday. Not good.
2. Partially pay for new air conditioning unit. Popular opinion of at least 4 repair firms concur.
3. Pay down brand new windows on entire house that were installed last month.
4. Repair cabinets under sinks that have mold (counting 3.... we only have 4 in the house....).
Does anyone see a theme here? We closed on our house February 23. We did have an inspection. Did the lovely inspector notice these things? NO. Would we have bought the house knowing these things. NO. However, it is now (housing) our bed, so we will lay in it. Or is it "lie" in it? Anyway, you know what I mean. And to answer the inevitable question that will arise: do we have a claim against the inspector? Sure... for the amount of the inspection. That amount will hardly cover the cost of any of the things listed above. So, word of mouth works wonders. And my mouth is fairly large.
Outside of the "Money.Pit", as GatorMan lovingly calls our home, things are going well. I've missed you all very much - and I promise to write more often!
Yay! Taxes are done - and surprise of all surprises - we are getting a return! WooHoo! We were not able to claim Ukulele as an exemption for 2008 because her adoption was not finalized until 2009... nor were we able to claim her as a dependant even though we were her legal guardians in 2008 (aparently there is some six month time-frame-thingy). Whatev. We are still getting a return which is quite the shock.
How will that money be spent? Hmmm.... let's count the possibilities:
1. Partially pay for new roof. It was raining in our master bath yesterday. Not good.
2. Partially pay for new air conditioning unit. Popular opinion of at least 4 repair firms concur.
3. Pay down brand new windows on entire house that were installed last month.
4. Repair cabinets under sinks that have mold (counting 3.... we only have 4 in the house....).
Does anyone see a theme here? We closed on our house February 23. We did have an inspection. Did the lovely inspector notice these things? NO. Would we have bought the house knowing these things. NO. However, it is now (housing) our bed, so we will lay in it. Or is it "lie" in it? Anyway, you know what I mean. And to answer the inevitable question that will arise: do we have a claim against the inspector? Sure... for the amount of the inspection. That amount will hardly cover the cost of any of the things listed above. So, word of mouth works wonders. And my mouth is fairly large.
Outside of the "Money.Pit", as GatorMan lovingly calls our home, things are going well. I've missed you all very much - and I promise to write more often!
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Wha????
Holy Crap! Where does the time go? It's been TWO WEEKS since my last post??? So sorry. All I have been doing is unpacking boxes, putting stuff away, setting up rooms, oh - and yeah - working. Not only did I go back to my full-time job on Monday, I also started teaching my classes again on Monday. I tell ya, when I go back, I GO BACK!
And another thing? We still have to file taxes. Ugh.
And another thing? We still have to file taxes. Ugh.
Friday, March 27, 2009
Flying Ukuleles
Ukulele and I just returned from our jaunt north in order to visit grandparents and friends. And I must say - the girl likes to fly! We had two flights to our destination, and then two flights returning. Not a peep out of our girl. She did not cry on take-off or landing.... no bottle needed to pop her ears - nothing! GatorMan is very pleased. He thinks this is a clear-cut indication that she will become a fighter pilot! :)
The trip home was very important. My grandmother is 94 - and I am afraid this is the only time she would get to meet Ukulele.... and also it may be the last time I see her. I certainly hope not, but her health is definitely not what is was just a year ago.
Ukulele also got to meet my mom, as well as my dad and step-mom.
The most popular comment on the plane and in the airport was "My, she's healthy!" And it is very much the truth! This girl can put away some milk! Another popular comment? "She looks just like you!" Well, thank you!
We did bring back some extra baggage in the form of a runny nose and congested chest. Ukulele's first "sickness." Not sure if it is from the altitude change, weather change (it was cold and rainy where we went), germs on the plane (which is better than snakes!), or a myriad of things.... Hopefully she'll feel better this weekend..... she starts daycare Monday!
Our little Ukulele is growing up way too fast....
The trip home was very important. My grandmother is 94 - and I am afraid this is the only time she would get to meet Ukulele.... and also it may be the last time I see her. I certainly hope not, but her health is definitely not what is was just a year ago.
Ukulele also got to meet my mom, as well as my dad and step-mom.
The most popular comment on the plane and in the airport was "My, she's healthy!" And it is very much the truth! This girl can put away some milk! Another popular comment? "She looks just like you!" Well, thank you!
We did bring back some extra baggage in the form of a runny nose and congested chest. Ukulele's first "sickness." Not sure if it is from the altitude change, weather change (it was cold and rainy where we went), germs on the plane (which is better than snakes!), or a myriad of things.... Hopefully she'll feel better this weekend..... she starts daycare Monday!
Our little Ukulele is growing up way too fast....
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Bling for Your Blog
Lost in Translation nominated me for the following award as well:
And like her, I am combining the two!
The rules for acceptance are as follow:
1) Choose a minimum of 7 blogs that you find brilliant in content or design.
2) Show the 7 winners names and links on your blog, and leave a comment informing them that they were prized with "Honest Scrap." Well, there's no prize, but they can keep the nifty icon.
3) List at least 10 honest things about yourself.
Here are my ten things....
(1) One of my biggest pet-peeves is people who do not use blinkers. Inadequate blinker usage should be a jailable offense.
(2) I would give up my respectable day-job to be a soap-opera actress.
(3) My thumb does not curve backward like most of the population's.
(4) I am addicted to celebrity gossip magazines and websites.
(5) I already have my Oscar acceptance speech scripted in my head.
(6) I talk in my sleep.
(7) I would go back to high school, and college, in a heartbeat if everyone else who attended at the same time went with me.
(8) I met my husband on match dot com.
(9) I have legally changed my first and middle names.
(10) My favorite color is orange.
Ok, I'm cheating. I'm only nominating five blogs. The five blogs I nominate are:
1. More Than Dog Children
2. Waiting for Baby: Our Adoption Journey Chronicles
3. off my mind.but from my heart
4. Life and Love in the Petri Dish
5. The Unfair Struggle
The rules for acceptance are as follow:
1) Choose a minimum of 7 blogs that you find brilliant in content or design.
2) Show the 7 winners names and links on your blog, and leave a comment informing them that they were prized with "Honest Scrap." Well, there's no prize, but they can keep the nifty icon.
3) List at least 10 honest things about yourself.
Here are my ten things....
(1) One of my biggest pet-peeves is people who do not use blinkers. Inadequate blinker usage should be a jailable offense.
(2) I would give up my respectable day-job to be a soap-opera actress.
(3) My thumb does not curve backward like most of the population's.
(4) I am addicted to celebrity gossip magazines and websites.
(5) I already have my Oscar acceptance speech scripted in my head.
(6) I talk in my sleep.
(7) I would go back to high school, and college, in a heartbeat if everyone else who attended at the same time went with me.
(8) I met my husband on match dot com.
(9) I have legally changed my first and middle names.
(10) My favorite color is orange.
Ok, I'm cheating. I'm only nominating five blogs. The five blogs I nominate are:
1. More Than Dog Children
2. Waiting for Baby: Our Adoption Journey Chronicles
3. off my mind.but from my heart
4. Life and Love in the Petri Dish
5. The Unfair Struggle
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Our *Nused* House
Things are going great in the nused house.... but I have a general question:
Do boxes multiply?
Every time I unpack one box, I honestly believe that it has reproduced into three more boxes when I turn my back. Who knew we had so much stuff? The only (somewhat) finished room is Ukulele's.
And our poor neighbors... I hope they did not watch us move in. We packed all of our clothes in garbage bags, so I am sure we looked like the Clampets hauling our goods into the house! Those garbage bags are STILL sitting on the bedroom floor - just waiting to be ripped open. Keep on waiting, Bags, keep on waiting.
As each room gets done, I'll post pictures. But don't hold your breath for long.... if the boxes keep multiplying, I may never finish!
Do boxes multiply?
Every time I unpack one box, I honestly believe that it has reproduced into three more boxes when I turn my back. Who knew we had so much stuff? The only (somewhat) finished room is Ukulele's.
And our poor neighbors... I hope they did not watch us move in. We packed all of our clothes in garbage bags, so I am sure we looked like the Clampets hauling our goods into the house! Those garbage bags are STILL sitting on the bedroom floor - just waiting to be ripped open. Keep on waiting, Bags, keep on waiting.
As each room gets done, I'll post pictures. But don't hold your breath for long.... if the boxes keep multiplying, I may never finish!
Thursday, March 5, 2009
Back to Civilization
We have finally moved into the new house. Comcast came today, and the internets are connected! I can now catch up on my blog reading and posting. I've missed everyone! I'll post more after this weekend. And for those of you who follow Ukulele's picture blog, there will be new pictures after this weekend as well.
Monday, February 23, 2009
Even more for February 23, 2009
. . . . . not only was Ukulele's adoption finalized this morning,
we closed on our "nused" house this afternoon.
Whew, what a day!
we closed on our "nused" house this afternoon.
Whew, what a day!
February 23, 2009
It's official:
Ukulele's adoption is final!
We became a "Forever Family" at 9:00 a.m. this morning!!!!
Ukulele's adoption is final!
We became a "Forever Family" at 9:00 a.m. this morning!!!!
Thursday, February 19, 2009
BC.BS = Discriminators?
Approximately two weeks ago I received in the mail a flyer from my insurance company (blue.cross blue.shield). The flyer advertised a program titled "Future Moms". Some of the perks of this program included prenatal counseling, on-call prenatal nurses, a handy write-on wipe-off board for babysitters, and an immunization record. When I received the flyer, I called the number and explained I did not need the prenatal counseling, nor would I be utilizing the on-call prenatal nurses. I indicated that I just adopted a baby, and I would very much like the write-on wipe-off board and the immunization record. The very nice lady said she understood and took my information down and indicated she would pass it along to the appropriate person to see if they would send the items.
I never heard back.
And then about a week ago I received a call from blue.cross. The nice woman on the phone was calling to tell me about their great program titled "Future Moms". I cut her off and explained - nicely (and not sarcastically like normal) - that I had already spoken with someone, and I had requested a couple of the items. I explained why I would not need the more "expensive" items they were offering. She said she'd talk to the appropriate person and get back with me. She called me back about 30 minutes later.
I was denied.
I was denied a write-on wipe-off board and immunization record because I could not get pregnant, and this program is designed for pregnant women. I told the woman - not so nicely this time - that I never wanted another phone call from them about this again. And then I hung up on her.
That evening I began composing (in my head) the letter that would be written to blue.cross. And how I would copy it to the insurance commissioner for my state, every adoption media contact I could find, and the human resource manager for my very large employer. The letter - as I was writing it in my head - addressed how I was being discriminated against. It also talked about how much money I would save them because I could NOT get pregnant. And that if they just looked at my record, they would in fact see, rather quickly, that I have been diagnosed INFERTILE, and they should be more careful in their mass mailings. (They sure has hell immediately saw the infertily diagnosis when my RE put it in my billing record - so it's not like they did not know.) The writing of this letter kept me up all night.
The next day I tried to find the information regarding this program online. Could not find a darned thing. Zip. I was not sure I even had the correct name for the program. How would I address the program and its problems if I could not even correctly name it? So, this glitch put the letter writing on hold for a few days.
Guess what arrived in the mail yesterday, in an unmarked envelope, and no accompanying letter?
A write-on wipe-off board and immunization record.
I never heard back.
And then about a week ago I received a call from blue.cross. The nice woman on the phone was calling to tell me about their great program titled "Future Moms". I cut her off and explained - nicely (and not sarcastically like normal) - that I had already spoken with someone, and I had requested a couple of the items. I explained why I would not need the more "expensive" items they were offering. She said she'd talk to the appropriate person and get back with me. She called me back about 30 minutes later.
I was denied.
I was denied a write-on wipe-off board and immunization record because I could not get pregnant, and this program is designed for pregnant women. I told the woman - not so nicely this time - that I never wanted another phone call from them about this again. And then I hung up on her.
That evening I began composing (in my head) the letter that would be written to blue.cross. And how I would copy it to the insurance commissioner for my state, every adoption media contact I could find, and the human resource manager for my very large employer. The letter - as I was writing it in my head - addressed how I was being discriminated against. It also talked about how much money I would save them because I could NOT get pregnant. And that if they just looked at my record, they would in fact see, rather quickly, that I have been diagnosed INFERTILE, and they should be more careful in their mass mailings. (They sure has hell immediately saw the infertily diagnosis when my RE put it in my billing record - so it's not like they did not know.) The writing of this letter kept me up all night.
The next day I tried to find the information regarding this program online. Could not find a darned thing. Zip. I was not sure I even had the correct name for the program. How would I address the program and its problems if I could not even correctly name it? So, this glitch put the letter writing on hold for a few days.
Guess what arrived in the mail yesterday, in an unmarked envelope, and no accompanying letter?
A write-on wipe-off board and immunization record.
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Busy Week!
We have a busy busy seven days ahead of us:
Today: Ukulele had her two month check-up.... with shots. I cannot believe how much she has grown since her January 2 appointment! (For stats and progress pictures, click here for information on accessing my photo blog.)
Tomorrow: Court-ordered homestudy for Ukulele's adoption.
Monday morning: Ukulele's Adoption Finalization!
Monday afternoon: Tentative closing on our nused (used, but new to us) house.
Whew.
Today: Ukulele had her two month check-up.... with shots. I cannot believe how much she has grown since her January 2 appointment! (For stats and progress pictures, click here for information on accessing my photo blog.)
Tomorrow: Court-ordered homestudy for Ukulele's adoption.
Monday morning: Ukulele's Adoption Finalization!
Monday afternoon: Tentative closing on our nused (used, but new to us) house.
Whew.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Random Updates
1. Daycare
Yay - we got in to the most sought-after daycare... woo!!! And might I add - it is much to the chagrin of FertileMyrtle?? Ukulele starts on March 30 - and I go back to work on April 6. I figured I would need a good week to get used to her being gone.
2. Pediatrician
We head back for our 2 month visit next Tuesday. Ukulele will be getting a plethora of shots, and I am not looking forward to it. But, I really really like the pediatrician we have and trust him immensely. I'm sure he'll put me at ease before he starts jabbing my baby with needles.
3. House
We were tentatively schedule to close this coming Friday - the 13th. It has now been moved to next week sometime because the appraisal has not been done. On one hand I'm glad we are not closing on Friday the 13th..... seems like kind of a bad omen. On the other hand, I am so ready to get out of this closet-sized townhome and move on and get to decorating! Also, might I add, I am looking forward to Ukulele having her own room instead of sleeping two feet away from me. I love the child dearly, but every time I hear a "strange" breath come out of her, I am jumping out of the bed to look at her. I think - or at least hope - that after a few nights in her own room I'll start sleeping a little bit better.
4. Weight
Okay, this is not really much of an update, but an added bonus of having a newborn. I have already dropped a complete size because I forget to eat. When Ukulele eats every three hours, and I only have about an hour in between feedings to get stuff done, I forget. I'll probably blow up like a balloon once I get back to work, but for now I am enjoying wearing jeans I have not had on in over a year!
5. Hate Mail to the Hospital
Yes, they are going to receive the letter. I have decided to send it AFTER the finalization of Ukulele's adoption (to be discussed below). From the last time I addressed this issue, I have found out more egregious acts that the hospital committed. The most egregious is the fact that Ukulele - and her FirstMom - were discharged from the hospital without a birth certificate being done. FirstMom had to go back to the hospital to fill out all the paperwork about two weeks after her discharge. When she got there, the hospital politely informed her that they went ahead and did it a couple of days beforehand. Yeah, real smooth. Another fantastic thing the hospital has done? They have lost the test results for Ukulele's initial bloodwork. I cannot recall the name of the test, but it's done immediately after birth. Apparently the results are mailed to the birthmother's house... but in our case they were supposed to be mailed to my attorney's house. Our attorney never received them. FirstMom never received them. Pediatrician never received them. I have not received them. No one seems to know where they are. Hopefully there was not anything in there that needs attention. This letter, incidentally, is being sent not only to the Board of Directors for the hospital, but also to the accreditation board.
6. Finalization Hearing
Ukulele's Finalization Hearing is set for February 23. Yippee!!!! I'm a little concerned, however, because the homestudy has not been completed yet. We have gotten all of our paperwork to the "adoption consultant" (that's what she calls herself), but we have not heard from her yet in regards to when she wants to come visit us. I'm hoping she comes this week so she can get that darned report written and to the court.
Okay, updates done.
Yay - we got in to the most sought-after daycare... woo!!! And might I add - it is much to the chagrin of FertileMyrtle?? Ukulele starts on March 30 - and I go back to work on April 6. I figured I would need a good week to get used to her being gone.
2. Pediatrician
We head back for our 2 month visit next Tuesday. Ukulele will be getting a plethora of shots, and I am not looking forward to it. But, I really really like the pediatrician we have and trust him immensely. I'm sure he'll put me at ease before he starts jabbing my baby with needles.
3. House
We were tentatively schedule to close this coming Friday - the 13th. It has now been moved to next week sometime because the appraisal has not been done. On one hand I'm glad we are not closing on Friday the 13th..... seems like kind of a bad omen. On the other hand, I am so ready to get out of this closet-sized townhome and move on and get to decorating! Also, might I add, I am looking forward to Ukulele having her own room instead of sleeping two feet away from me. I love the child dearly, but every time I hear a "strange" breath come out of her, I am jumping out of the bed to look at her. I think - or at least hope - that after a few nights in her own room I'll start sleeping a little bit better.
4. Weight
Okay, this is not really much of an update, but an added bonus of having a newborn. I have already dropped a complete size because I forget to eat. When Ukulele eats every three hours, and I only have about an hour in between feedings to get stuff done, I forget. I'll probably blow up like a balloon once I get back to work, but for now I am enjoying wearing jeans I have not had on in over a year!
5. Hate Mail to the Hospital
Yes, they are going to receive the letter. I have decided to send it AFTER the finalization of Ukulele's adoption (to be discussed below). From the last time I addressed this issue, I have found out more egregious acts that the hospital committed. The most egregious is the fact that Ukulele - and her FirstMom - were discharged from the hospital without a birth certificate being done. FirstMom had to go back to the hospital to fill out all the paperwork about two weeks after her discharge. When she got there, the hospital politely informed her that they went ahead and did it a couple of days beforehand. Yeah, real smooth. Another fantastic thing the hospital has done? They have lost the test results for Ukulele's initial bloodwork. I cannot recall the name of the test, but it's done immediately after birth. Apparently the results are mailed to the birthmother's house... but in our case they were supposed to be mailed to my attorney's house. Our attorney never received them. FirstMom never received them. Pediatrician never received them. I have not received them. No one seems to know where they are. Hopefully there was not anything in there that needs attention. This letter, incidentally, is being sent not only to the Board of Directors for the hospital, but also to the accreditation board.
6. Finalization Hearing
Ukulele's Finalization Hearing is set for February 23. Yippee!!!! I'm a little concerned, however, because the homestudy has not been completed yet. We have gotten all of our paperwork to the "adoption consultant" (that's what she calls herself), but we have not heard from her yet in regards to when she wants to come visit us. I'm hoping she comes this week so she can get that darned report written and to the court.
Okay, updates done.
Saturday, February 7, 2009
We Are Well-Adjusted....
The whole family is now well-adjusted! Well, according the chiropractor.... We all went to the chiro on Friday. It started with just me, it seems holding Ukulele puts quite the "crick" in my neck. While I was there, I asked the doc if he did infant adjustments, and he did! He's done adjustments on infants who were only 1 day old. I explained the problems Ukulele was having, he checked her out, made a couple of adjustments, and we were on our way. GatorMan ended up going to see him a couple of hours later.
Now I know there are people out there who are fans of chiropractic care, and those who are not. I grew up in the Quad Cities where Palmer College of Chiropractic is located. My grandmother owned a large victorian home which was divided into apartments - and she would only accept Palmer students as tenants. Growing up in that environment exposed me to chiropractic care at a very young age. I have always found that it relieved most pains I have experienced. A friend a few days ago mentioned that she had taken her babies to her chiro for similar issues Ukulele was experiencing, and thought that an adjustment may work for Ukulele.
Ukulele was experiencing reflux, with the lovely addition of painful bowel movements. Since her adjustment yesterday, her "upchucking" has decreased significantly, and she hasn't shown any pain during a bowel movement. My neck doesn't hurt anymore, and GatorMan feels great.
We are a well-adjusted family! Now we just have to convince that social worker during our homestudy.......
Now I know there are people out there who are fans of chiropractic care, and those who are not. I grew up in the Quad Cities where Palmer College of Chiropractic is located. My grandmother owned a large victorian home which was divided into apartments - and she would only accept Palmer students as tenants. Growing up in that environment exposed me to chiropractic care at a very young age. I have always found that it relieved most pains I have experienced. A friend a few days ago mentioned that she had taken her babies to her chiro for similar issues Ukulele was experiencing, and thought that an adjustment may work for Ukulele.
Ukulele was experiencing reflux, with the lovely addition of painful bowel movements. Since her adjustment yesterday, her "upchucking" has decreased significantly, and she hasn't shown any pain during a bowel movement. My neck doesn't hurt anymore, and GatorMan feels great.
We are a well-adjusted family! Now we just have to convince that social worker during our homestudy.......
Monday, February 2, 2009
It Doesn't Hurt as Bad.... Seriously
I have a friend that got pregnant very easily. Don't we all have those friends? Well this particular friend of mine is one of those know-it-alls. You say something about a topic - ANY topic - and she knows more about it. Well, her little boy just turned one in December. He was only a few months old when GatorMan and I went through our one and only IUI. While I was all jacked up on hormones and feeling all the pregnancy signs in my two week wait, she told GatorMan that there was no way I could be feeling those things because no one does. Well - bottom line is that SHE didn't feel signs in her two week wait, so therefore, no one else can either. At the time, we didn't realize that those two weeks of "pregnancy feelings" were the only ones we would ever experience.
Shortly thereafter, Dr. RE cut us off. Needless to say, her words hurt me deeply. And not only did they hurt me, they hurt GatorMan, so that made her comments worse. After months (yes, plural), I finally addressed the situation with her. She apologized, genuinely, and acknowledged her propensity for spouting out things without thinking.
This friend and two others threw us a baby shower a couple of weekends ago. A very nice, very fun, baby shower. I didn't notice that she did not drink mimosas with the rest of us.
Yes, you KNOW where this is going.
She called the other day with her great news..... she's pregnant again. I asked if they had been trying, or did this just "happen." She said they'd been trying for seven months and she was getting so frustrated. I think she forgot who she was talking to. Then she mentioned how the first trimester is the worst. Again - audience acknowledgment is not her strong suit.
After hearing her news - did it sting? A little. Am I jealous? A tiny bit. Does it hurt as bad as it used to? Not at all. In fact, I am really happy for her, and was not as bothered by her thoughtless comments as I would have normally been.
Thank you, Little Miss Ukulele. You are making me a better person with every day that goes by.
Shortly thereafter, Dr. RE cut us off. Needless to say, her words hurt me deeply. And not only did they hurt me, they hurt GatorMan, so that made her comments worse. After months (yes, plural), I finally addressed the situation with her. She apologized, genuinely, and acknowledged her propensity for spouting out things without thinking.
This friend and two others threw us a baby shower a couple of weekends ago. A very nice, very fun, baby shower. I didn't notice that she did not drink mimosas with the rest of us.
Yes, you KNOW where this is going.
She called the other day with her great news..... she's pregnant again. I asked if they had been trying, or did this just "happen." She said they'd been trying for seven months and she was getting so frustrated. I think she forgot who she was talking to. Then she mentioned how the first trimester is the worst. Again - audience acknowledgment is not her strong suit.
After hearing her news - did it sting? A little. Am I jealous? A tiny bit. Does it hurt as bad as it used to? Not at all. In fact, I am really happy for her, and was not as bothered by her thoughtless comments as I would have normally been.
Thank you, Little Miss Ukulele. You are making me a better person with every day that goes by.
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Healthy!
Well, GatorMan and I are free of communicable diseases! Thank goodness - we were worried. (whatever....)
The health screening part of the homestudy is now done. Fingerprinting done. Criminal background checks done. Recommendations should be arriving at the attorney's office. All that's left is for the social worker meet us in person, meet our animals, check our house, probably snoop in our cupboards, and finally give us her blessing. Our social worker who graduated from school two years after I was born. The social worker who addresses me as Mrs. GatorMan - she does not address me by MY first name.... oh no, I am "Mrs. GatorMan". (Don't get me wrong, I love being Mrs. GatorMan, but I have my OWN name, and I am identified by that, not by who my husband is.) Yeah, she and I are going to get along just swell, I can already see it.
I have to admit something to my blog friends - I've been keeping a secret. I wanted to talk about it sooner, but honestly I was so sick of talking about it and then it not coming to fruition that I put it off. It still is not "definite" but it's almost definite...
No, I'm not pregnant. As katd so eloquently stated: "Adoption is not a fertility treatment."
We are under contract for a new house. Yes - you read correctly - our townhome is under contract, and we are under contract for a new house! Well, a "nused" house - new to us, but "used" previously by other families! We hope to close in a couple of weeks so keep your fingers crossed that all goes well! I'll keep you all updated.....
The health screening part of the homestudy is now done. Fingerprinting done. Criminal background checks done. Recommendations should be arriving at the attorney's office. All that's left is for the social worker meet us in person, meet our animals, check our house, probably snoop in our cupboards, and finally give us her blessing. Our social worker who graduated from school two years after I was born. The social worker who addresses me as Mrs. GatorMan - she does not address me by MY first name.... oh no, I am "Mrs. GatorMan". (Don't get me wrong, I love being Mrs. GatorMan, but I have my OWN name, and I am identified by that, not by who my husband is.) Yeah, she and I are going to get along just swell, I can already see it.
I have to admit something to my blog friends - I've been keeping a secret. I wanted to talk about it sooner, but honestly I was so sick of talking about it and then it not coming to fruition that I put it off. It still is not "definite" but it's almost definite...
No, I'm not pregnant. As katd so eloquently stated: "Adoption is not a fertility treatment."
We are under contract for a new house. Yes - you read correctly - our townhome is under contract, and we are under contract for a new house! Well, a "nused" house - new to us, but "used" previously by other families! We hope to close in a couple of weeks so keep your fingers crossed that all goes well! I'll keep you all updated.....
Monday, January 26, 2009
Homestudy....
So, we are in the middle of a homestudy that we did not think we were going to have to do. Long story, but we are in the middle of it.
Part of the homestudy is for our primary care physicians to "sign off" on our health indicating that we are in fact healthy people - mentally and physically. GatorMan and I have different primary care docs, even though they are in the same practice. GatorMan's doc is pretty laid back and easygoing. Her answers to the questionnaire were basically "yes" and "no." My doc, on the other hand, is super detailed. She called last week and indicated that my file did not reflect that I had had a TB test in the last year, nor could she tell if I had a tetanus/pertussis (sp?) shot in the last ten years. She wanted me to do this before she filled out the questionnaire. And no, the questionnaire does NOT indicate that I need these shots/tests.
Today was the appointment for the shot/test. I go in, and the nurse explains that she is going to give me the shot first. After the shot, she gives me the TB test - which stung by the way. I'd rather jab myself in the stomach with another foll.istim pen than do this test again. After the nurse finished, she went to talk to the doc about a question I had asked. Doc was right outside of the exam room door, and I heard the entire conversation. Apparently Doc had indicated that she wanted the TB test done FIRST.... then the shot. Nurse did it backwards. Doc indicated that nurse had injected me with the toxins that the test would be looking for. Great....... I'm not a doctor - obviously - but this does not make sense to me. Nurse comes back in, and does not mention her conversation with Doc at all.....
I go back on Wednesday to have the TB test location looked at. Instead of just running in - like GatorMan was allowed to do with HIS doctor - my Doc has scheduled an appointment to look at my arm, and go over my questionnaire. I'm going to be really curious as to what my arm is going to look like and what she is going to say. I may have to let her know that I overheard the entire conversation....
Oh. We also got fingerprinted today. Totally cool contraption... no ink involved.
* As a side note, I have been very restrained and careful to not go off on a complete rant about how crackheads, heroin injectors, child molesters, child abusers, welfare mamas, and "others" do NOT have to go through this process. They miraculously get kids. For free.
** Okay, I guess my side note is now moot. Couldn't resist.
*** After re-reading my post pre-publish, I realize my side notes make it sound like I'm not grateful for Ukulele. I am ABSOLUTELY grateful for her. But I still do not understand WHY some things happen the way they do. Not sure any of us get it.
UPDATE:
After reading a couple of comments, I realized that I was not very clear about who has ordered the homestudy. The homestudy has been ordered by the court. Because this was a closed and private adoption, we did not do a homestudy through an agency prior to placement.
Also, thanks to Murgdan for clearing up the whole shot/test confusion on my part.... and explaining to me what should have been explained by my own nurse! You rock - Murgdan - thanks again!
Part of the homestudy is for our primary care physicians to "sign off" on our health indicating that we are in fact healthy people - mentally and physically. GatorMan and I have different primary care docs, even though they are in the same practice. GatorMan's doc is pretty laid back and easygoing. Her answers to the questionnaire were basically "yes" and "no." My doc, on the other hand, is super detailed. She called last week and indicated that my file did not reflect that I had had a TB test in the last year, nor could she tell if I had a tetanus/pertussis (sp?) shot in the last ten years. She wanted me to do this before she filled out the questionnaire. And no, the questionnaire does NOT indicate that I need these shots/tests.
Today was the appointment for the shot/test. I go in, and the nurse explains that she is going to give me the shot first. After the shot, she gives me the TB test - which stung by the way. I'd rather jab myself in the stomach with another foll.istim pen than do this test again. After the nurse finished, she went to talk to the doc about a question I had asked. Doc was right outside of the exam room door, and I heard the entire conversation. Apparently Doc had indicated that she wanted the TB test done FIRST.... then the shot. Nurse did it backwards. Doc indicated that nurse had injected me with the toxins that the test would be looking for. Great....... I'm not a doctor - obviously - but this does not make sense to me. Nurse comes back in, and does not mention her conversation with Doc at all.....
I go back on Wednesday to have the TB test location looked at. Instead of just running in - like GatorMan was allowed to do with HIS doctor - my Doc has scheduled an appointment to look at my arm, and go over my questionnaire. I'm going to be really curious as to what my arm is going to look like and what she is going to say. I may have to let her know that I overheard the entire conversation....
Oh. We also got fingerprinted today. Totally cool contraption... no ink involved.
* As a side note, I have been very restrained and careful to not go off on a complete rant about how crackheads, heroin injectors, child molesters, child abusers, welfare mamas, and "others" do NOT have to go through this process. They miraculously get kids. For free.
** Okay, I guess my side note is now moot. Couldn't resist.
*** After re-reading my post pre-publish, I realize my side notes make it sound like I'm not grateful for Ukulele. I am ABSOLUTELY grateful for her. But I still do not understand WHY some things happen the way they do. Not sure any of us get it.
UPDATE:
After reading a couple of comments, I realized that I was not very clear about who has ordered the homestudy. The homestudy has been ordered by the court. Because this was a closed and private adoption, we did not do a homestudy through an agency prior to placement.
Also, thanks to Murgdan for clearing up the whole shot/test confusion on my part.... and explaining to me what should have been explained by my own nurse! You rock - Murgdan - thanks again!
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
It Is Starting.....
"Now that you have adopted, you'll have a baby of your own."
Listen, Jackass, Ukulele is our own.
That whole uneducated comment is not helped by the fact that in the building in which I work, two other women were diagnosed infertile, adopted, and immediately got pregnant thereafter. (I do know one of them had some fairly major cyst issues... not sure what the other one's story was. I also do not know if there was male factor involved or not with either one.)
Everytime someone says the above statement to me, I point out that Ukulele is a *real* child who is our *own*, and that less than 5% of infertiles who adopt become pregnant afterwards. That usually shuts them up.
Listen, Jackass, Ukulele is our own.
That whole uneducated comment is not helped by the fact that in the building in which I work, two other women were diagnosed infertile, adopted, and immediately got pregnant thereafter. (I do know one of them had some fairly major cyst issues... not sure what the other one's story was. I also do not know if there was male factor involved or not with either one.)
Everytime someone says the above statement to me, I point out that Ukulele is a *real* child who is our *own*, and that less than 5% of infertiles who adopt become pregnant afterwards. That usually shuts them up.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Thoughts on "Adopt.ion is a Fam.ily Affair"
Wow... it's been an entire week since my last post. I'm so sorry - I really have meant to write more, but I honestly do not know where all the time goes during the day. Seven pounds of squishy-adorable can really suck the time away!
So... I am going to review a book that I really liked. My guess is that people either love it or hate it. The book is "Adopt.ion is a Fam.ily Affair" by Patricia Ir.win John.ston. I had read on a blog somewhere that the adoptive family bought this book for every member in their extended family. I was curious, so I ordered off of Ama.zon (because Barnes and Noble severely lacks adoption books in my town).
The book is very thin and a quick read. The book spends a lot of time discussing fears that family members may have when an adoption occurs, such as: race, disability, open adoption, cost, wait, and many other topics. It more importantly discusses thing that should NOT be said to the parents.* Some chapters you'll be able to skim right over because they will not apply to your particular situation, while other chapters you'll want to photocopy and mail out to everyone you know.
Overall, I thought this book was very good for my family inparticular because we have not dealt with an adoptive situation on my side. GatorMan's family has - but they still got a copy! Along with this book we sent a "Family Letter" indicating how we got to this point (our families were not told about our fertility issues for a long time) and how we intend to raise and educate Ukulele in relation to her adoption. It was important for us to indicate to our families that WE will decide what she knows and when, and that we wholly expect them to abide by our wishes (although I do not think it will be a problem... just an "in case" clause of sorts). I find that anything that educates my family and friends about adoption is a plus, and I'll gladly get the information to them.
This book is also good for those thinking about adoption. It raises questions that your family members may have about the situation that you might not have considered. Adoption is a big change for everyone involved, and this book attempts to serve as a guide through some of the potential problem areas.
* I'll write a post later this week on the topic of what has already been said to us as adoptive parents to Ukulele.....
So... I am going to review a book that I really liked. My guess is that people either love it or hate it. The book is "Adopt.ion is a Fam.ily Affair" by Patricia Ir.win John.ston. I had read on a blog somewhere that the adoptive family bought this book for every member in their extended family. I was curious, so I ordered off of Ama.zon (because Barnes and Noble severely lacks adoption books in my town).
The book is very thin and a quick read. The book spends a lot of time discussing fears that family members may have when an adoption occurs, such as: race, disability, open adoption, cost, wait, and many other topics. It more importantly discusses thing that should NOT be said to the parents.* Some chapters you'll be able to skim right over because they will not apply to your particular situation, while other chapters you'll want to photocopy and mail out to everyone you know.
Overall, I thought this book was very good for my family inparticular because we have not dealt with an adoptive situation on my side. GatorMan's family has - but they still got a copy! Along with this book we sent a "Family Letter" indicating how we got to this point (our families were not told about our fertility issues for a long time) and how we intend to raise and educate Ukulele in relation to her adoption. It was important for us to indicate to our families that WE will decide what she knows and when, and that we wholly expect them to abide by our wishes (although I do not think it will be a problem... just an "in case" clause of sorts). I find that anything that educates my family and friends about adoption is a plus, and I'll gladly get the information to them.
This book is also good for those thinking about adoption. It raises questions that your family members may have about the situation that you might not have considered. Adoption is a big change for everyone involved, and this book attempts to serve as a guide through some of the potential problem areas.
* I'll write a post later this week on the topic of what has already been said to us as adoptive parents to Ukulele.....
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Baby Help Videos
We have received two videos regarding the behaviors of babies that we have found to be immensely helpful.
(1) Dun.stan Ba.by Lang.uage
This video basically states that there are 5 different cries/sounds that newborns make. It teaches you how to listen and distinguish between those sounds to determine what it is your baby wants.
Gotta tell ya, we LOVED this video. Yeah, the woman is kinda weird when you watch it, but what she says is true. We have applied these principles to Ukulele, and damned if they didn't work! It has helped us distinguish whether she is hungry, tired, needs burped, or whatever. This video is only good for the first few months - so get it early. We received it before Ukulele was born, so we were prepared when she got here. We were able to apply the principles immediately, and saw immediate results. If you check the some of the negative comments on Ama.zon about this video, we personally believe those people did not make a valiant attempt at deciphering the cries and instead wanted to "have it down" instantly. This will not work - it takes a little bit of time to decipher the different cries because they DO sound similar until you get used to it. Keep trying - you WILL get it!
(2) The Hap.piest Baby on the Bl.ock
This video teaches you the 5 S's to calming your baby. It is taught by a pediatrician who applies the principles on the video and shows you how to do them.
Again, we LOVE this video! It indicates that each baby has a *calming* button, and it teaches you how to activate it. We received this video a couple of days after Ukulele arrived home but we did not watch it at that point. Tonight, however, she seemed inconsolable, so we put it in. We applied the techniques - and she IMMEDIATELY calmed down! She has now been snoozing in her bouncy-seat for almost two hours (it's 9:51 eastern time) and she has been awake and fussy since approximately 1:00 this afternoon. Watch this one NOW if you have it and have been putting it off. If you do not have it - go get it. *One thing we did not like.... it does not really address formula fed babies in the Q&A and instead talks a lot about breast-fed babies... which obviously does not apply to most adoptive parents. Overall, however, this does not really matter in the application of the techniques.
*****
As adoptive parents, we have been reading pretty much everything we can get our hands on trying to get a grasp of how to handle a newborn. Both of the above videos were worth more than their purchase price.
If we come across something we find particularly helpful in the adoptive-parent-front, we will try and post our personal review of it and how it helped us or was a waste of time.
(1) Dun.stan Ba.by Lang.uage
This video basically states that there are 5 different cries/sounds that newborns make. It teaches you how to listen and distinguish between those sounds to determine what it is your baby wants.
Gotta tell ya, we LOVED this video. Yeah, the woman is kinda weird when you watch it, but what she says is true. We have applied these principles to Ukulele, and damned if they didn't work! It has helped us distinguish whether she is hungry, tired, needs burped, or whatever. This video is only good for the first few months - so get it early. We received it before Ukulele was born, so we were prepared when she got here. We were able to apply the principles immediately, and saw immediate results. If you check the some of the negative comments on Ama.zon about this video, we personally believe those people did not make a valiant attempt at deciphering the cries and instead wanted to "have it down" instantly. This will not work - it takes a little bit of time to decipher the different cries because they DO sound similar until you get used to it. Keep trying - you WILL get it!
(2) The Hap.piest Baby on the Bl.ock
This video teaches you the 5 S's to calming your baby. It is taught by a pediatrician who applies the principles on the video and shows you how to do them.
Again, we LOVE this video! It indicates that each baby has a *calming* button, and it teaches you how to activate it. We received this video a couple of days after Ukulele arrived home but we did not watch it at that point. Tonight, however, she seemed inconsolable, so we put it in. We applied the techniques - and she IMMEDIATELY calmed down! She has now been snoozing in her bouncy-seat for almost two hours (it's 9:51 eastern time) and she has been awake and fussy since approximately 1:00 this afternoon. Watch this one NOW if you have it and have been putting it off. If you do not have it - go get it. *One thing we did not like.... it does not really address formula fed babies in the Q&A and instead talks a lot about breast-fed babies... which obviously does not apply to most adoptive parents. Overall, however, this does not really matter in the application of the techniques.
*****
As adoptive parents, we have been reading pretty much everything we can get our hands on trying to get a grasp of how to handle a newborn. Both of the above videos were worth more than their purchase price.
If we come across something we find particularly helpful in the adoptive-parent-front, we will try and post our personal review of it and how it helped us or was a waste of time.
Monday, January 12, 2009
Photo Blog
We have started our photo blog of Ukulele finally. If you would like an invitation, please email me at samiam1117 at gmail dot com.
Rules on the new blog: PLEASE DO NOT REFERENCE THIS BLOG ON THE PHOTO BLOG! There are people who will have access to the photo blog that do not know about this blog. Furthermore, please do not refer to Ukulele by "Ukulele" in the new blog - I do not want to explain that name to other people and then have them "stumble" across my precious little corner over here. When you get to the photo blog, you'll learn Ukulele's real name so please feel free to use it over there (but not here...).
I am sure that you all appreciate the comfort of anonymity from various people in the safe haven of the blogosphere, so I thank you in advance for understanding!
Rules on the new blog: PLEASE DO NOT REFERENCE THIS BLOG ON THE PHOTO BLOG! There are people who will have access to the photo blog that do not know about this blog. Furthermore, please do not refer to Ukulele by "Ukulele" in the new blog - I do not want to explain that name to other people and then have them "stumble" across my precious little corner over here. When you get to the photo blog, you'll learn Ukulele's real name so please feel free to use it over there (but not here...).
I am sure that you all appreciate the comfort of anonymity from various people in the safe haven of the blogosphere, so I thank you in advance for understanding!
Saturday, January 10, 2009
Mouse in the Ukulele?
Ok, I know I'm new at this whole mom thing... but I think a mouse has taken up residence inside of my little Ukulele. That girl SQUEAKS! And not only does she squeak, she grunts. ALL THE TIME. So much so that it freaked my friend out who claims her one-year-old son never made those noises.
Is this normal? I have not checked with the all-knowing-go.ogle yet because I knew the bloggers would have better information.
Oh - an adoption related note - I'm starting to get the comment that I look fantastic for having a three-week-old. My response? "Thanks!" Let them think I have a personal trainer whose whipping me into shape while my nanny takes care of my newborn. I mean, hey, don't we all have the means to be that way like the Hollywood Tartlets?
Is this normal? I have not checked with the all-knowing-go.ogle yet because I knew the bloggers would have better information.
Oh - an adoption related note - I'm starting to get the comment that I look fantastic for having a three-week-old. My response? "Thanks!" Let them think I have a personal trainer whose whipping me into shape while my nanny takes care of my newborn. I mean, hey, don't we all have the means to be that way like the Hollywood Tartlets?
Thursday, January 8, 2009
Definition of "Projectile"
"Projectile" to a person without kids can mean a number of things.... to GatorMan and I it meant holding our cat up in the air and using her as an airplane. Or it was the Screaming Monkey from woot dot com that would fly through the air when you pulled it's legs. Among other things it meant the paper on a straw that you blow off making it fly across the table.
Today, "projectile" means the vomit that FLEW out of Ukulele's mouth, across my legs, part of the couch, and on to the floor.
Who knew that parenthood would come with alternate word definitions!
Today, "projectile" means the vomit that FLEW out of Ukulele's mouth, across my legs, part of the couch, and on to the floor.
Who knew that parenthood would come with alternate word definitions!
Monday, January 5, 2009
Timing of Announcements
Quick question for those of you who have travelled this road before:
When should we send out Ukulele's birth announcements?
Should we wait until after the adoption is finalized (mid February)? Should we go ahead and send now since FirstMom's revocation rights have expired?
Most adoption announcements I have seen have two to three dates on them: (1) birth date; (2) *permanently* joined family date; and sometimes (3) came to the family date. We have (1) and (3), but (2)'s date is not definite yet.
Also, I'm open for suggestions on affordable announcement sites.... most sites I have found charge between $1.65 to $2.50 per announcement. That adds up quickly when you intend on sending out over 100 announcements!
When should we send out Ukulele's birth announcements?
Should we wait until after the adoption is finalized (mid February)? Should we go ahead and send now since FirstMom's revocation rights have expired?
Most adoption announcements I have seen have two to three dates on them: (1) birth date; (2) *permanently* joined family date; and sometimes (3) came to the family date. We have (1) and (3), but (2)'s date is not definite yet.
Also, I'm open for suggestions on affordable announcement sites.... most sites I have found charge between $1.65 to $2.50 per announcement. That adds up quickly when you intend on sending out over 100 announcements!
Thursday, January 1, 2009
Welcome 2009!
Dear 2009 - glad you are finally here.
Tonight as I read through my bloglist, I noticed that almost all of my blog-friends had a fairly shitty 2008. We did, too.... for the most part. It always seemed like just when things could not get any worse, they did. One grandparent dies... then the next. The market drops.... and then drops further. Someone's interested in your house.... then they don't want it. Your RE cuts you off. You're told you can only use donor eggs. Your 93-year-old grandmother falls and breaks her hip. One thing after another.
Then something good happens. It always does. Because just as things get as bad as they can possibly get, they will ALWAYS get better -- they have to. Maybe you beat the parking-meter-troll to your car; maybe you find $10 in a coat; maybe you get a raise; maybe you get published; maybe you laugh so hard you cry; and maybe - just maybe - you become a parent.
I'm so glad OUR becoming parents came at the end of 2008. Because frankly, 2008 sucked. Big time. Ukulele has erased all that hurt, all that disappointment, all that nothingness.
So 2009 - we welcome you with open arms. We welcome a new President. We welcome a stronger market. We welcome new friends. We welcome new opportunities. And, we welcome our new daughter.
And on behalf of all of our blogfriends - we welcome you, 2009, and encourage you to be a lot nicer to everyone than 2008 was.
Tonight as I read through my bloglist, I noticed that almost all of my blog-friends had a fairly shitty 2008. We did, too.... for the most part. It always seemed like just when things could not get any worse, they did. One grandparent dies... then the next. The market drops.... and then drops further. Someone's interested in your house.... then they don't want it. Your RE cuts you off. You're told you can only use donor eggs. Your 93-year-old grandmother falls and breaks her hip. One thing after another.
Then something good happens. It always does. Because just as things get as bad as they can possibly get, they will ALWAYS get better -- they have to. Maybe you beat the parking-meter-troll to your car; maybe you find $10 in a coat; maybe you get a raise; maybe you get published; maybe you laugh so hard you cry; and maybe - just maybe - you become a parent.
I'm so glad OUR becoming parents came at the end of 2008. Because frankly, 2008 sucked. Big time. Ukulele has erased all that hurt, all that disappointment, all that nothingness.
So 2009 - we welcome you with open arms. We welcome a new President. We welcome a stronger market. We welcome new friends. We welcome new opportunities. And, we welcome our new daughter.
And on behalf of all of our blogfriends - we welcome you, 2009, and encourage you to be a lot nicer to everyone than 2008 was.
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