Oh Dear friends, I cannot and can, believe how long it has been since I've updated. I will sit down to make a post, and half way through realize that it is coming off more as a journal entry than a post the mass public should be subjected to!
I have had so many inspirations about what I should be doing in my spare time lately. Reading books, nah, I don't get past the first chapter before I am distracted, or tending to Henry. Start writing a book? Ha! Funny one. Post a blog....nah. Watch a movie, nah. etc etc. Lately though, I have been hit with this urgency for educating myself, on all things.
I took a 2 year long hiatus from learning, as in on purpose... F.I.D.M. burnt me out of all my compassion, lust, creativeness, awe-ness (is that a word, well who cares) with not only the world of fashion, but the world in general. It was a boot camp for your talent, and as we all know, only the elite leave going into battle. I couldn't and still cannot, go to Style.com, or Womens Wear Daily, or buy a fashion magazine. Couldn't stand to look at fashion blogs, or fashion shows, etc. I thought maybe, I had wasted 3 years of my life, maybe fashion wasn't where I belonged in life. Reiterating this thought was how I felt about the world of retail. I hated it, and that seemingly was the only place I had ever worked, or could find a job. Had I really just wasted 7 years of my life?
I have been searching ever since, to find 'my calling' in life. For a brief moment I thought motherhood was my calling. Shortly after having Henry I realized, no, I am not a cicada, I was not just born into this world to reproduce and then die.
And no, I am not the mother of 19 kids and counting, nor do I want to be. Babies have become a sincere passion of mine since having Henry, but that is not my life calling. I have become educated on SO much, and the world makes so much more sense since having Henry, yet, not my life calling. I digress.
Getting to my point, I have a thirst now. I am so thirsty to understand the world, and everything in it. I love watching CNN. I love staying up to date on news stories, I love pop culture, I love to hate it. I have found my way back to music, which I had stopped listening to for so very embarrassingly long because I was too busy. I found my compassion, I found love, I found faith, I found so much in the last few years. It's like I have been awakened from a deep sleep. Now I am inspired! My sister and I, have been talking forever about interesting business propositions. We keep trying to figure out what we can do, what is our calling. And the more thirsty I become with the world and exploring it, the more I see the voids in the world. So this is my mission: To make a blog updates, and transition this blog into a mothers journal, and pop culture journal, a forum for questions and answers, discussions and 'been there done thats'. I hope that it develops the way I want it to and if no one reads it, no problem. I have a great need to pen my inspirations down and make sense of them.
This entire post is such a ramble and mess of ideas, but that is how full my brain is these days! I watch a lot of news and talk shows, the same ones pretty much every day. I hope that I can take their 'hot topics' and express my thoughts on here and hopefully elicit some responses on your views. I find more and more thoughts building in my head and no where to dissect them! I'll try and start today. Here goes....
LC
July 19, 2011
June 29, 2011
Favorite Baby Brands
I get asked this question a lot from friends, family and followers on YT/Formspring.
As I sit here folding laundry I realize I should just type this up while it is on my brain.
Clothing:
Carters: is cute and the outfits with the animals on the butt are sweet, BUT they do run a bit small. They were great when Henry was a newborn, the NB size was pretty accurate and fit him for about a month, but once he got to about 1mo old he was wearing 3mo size clothes from Carters.
Koala Baby: LOVE them! This brand is sold mostly at BabysRus, it might even be BRU brand, I am not sure, but the fabric is soft and comfortable. Comfort is a huge thing with Henry, he fusses if you put itchy acrylic fabric on him or polo fabric like Polo Ralph Lauren. I have two outfits from Koala Baby and they are his favorite.
Janie and Jack: Expensive but the quality is the best I've seen from all other brands. If you hold in your hand a Carters onesie and a Janie and Jack onesie you can feel and SEE the difference. Ive had a onesie from them since Henry was 2mo old and he is almost 5mo and it still fits him great and has held up. If I had no budget I would shop there for all of Henrys clothing needs.
HINT: Biggest lesson I have learned since having a baby, DON'T skimp on the important things- you get what you pay for. If you buy cheap clothes, you get cheap clothes, if you buy a cheap diaper bag, it WILL fall apart.
Gerber: Im not such a big fan of their clothing line, or really anything from them. It feels cheap, very thin fabric, it stretches when you dont really want it to and they run really small.
TOYS
Fisher-Price: They ended up being the only brand we use and we didnt even realize it. We have a swing, play mat and jumperoo from them. Our high chair is from them, our bath tub as well. They just ended up always have the best products and we didnt realize it until they were all in the same room together.
We like to go to BRU with Henry and test out the products. There have been times where we would go get something and he didnt adjust well to it or like it so we ended up wasting money and time. Also there are toys that he doesnt like because the colors are not bright enough for him to make out yet. His favorite color is red but he also still favors black and white patterns. He reacts to Kevin the most because he has thick black rimmed glasses and really loves them. When my mom was here she couldn't get any kind of reaction from him, no laughs, no giggles. But the second she put on her readers, he thought she was the coolest thing since sliced bread.
First Years: We use their bottle products such as their bottle warmer, and bottle drying rack. I like the simplistic style and no fuss of their brand.
Medela: Go big or Go Home. They are the most expensive but worth every penny. My breast pump was $300 but they do go on sale once every season for about 20% off. I use my breast pump about 6-7 times a day for around 20 minutes. And with out it I wouldn't be able to feed my child. So I have used it roughly 1050+ times since Henrys birth and it still has the most powerful suction EVER. The quality is out standing and the pump comes in a great tote bag. Didnt think I would need the bag but omg its right next to the diaper bag in the essential department. So all in all the pump paid for itself after only a few weeks worth of use. And regardless if you are breastfeeding solely you will need a pump, for when you are away from your baby or if they didnt eat all that you had produced etc etc. And no, its not so simple to just manually pump it off- who has time for that!?
Munckin: LOVE LOVE LOVE this brand. They are good on the 'feeding' front. They have good sack mesh feeders, they have great feeding spoons, they have great closet organizers- which was Henry's 'closet' for the first 3mo of his life. They have great diaper organizer-which I LIVE BY! They have an 'OK' bottle basket for the dishwasher, i dont LOVE it because my Medela bottles dont fit too nicely in it. But everything else I have bought from them is super dee duper sweet.
Boppy: Get one, and you will have a wonderful life :D
Bumbo: Our child has the worlds fattest thighs, so he doesn't enjoy sitting in it too much because he gets stuck or it squishes down on his thighs and he gets un-happy
Evenflo: They are ok, I only have one product of theirs, a travel system. I love my stroller, it is bulky but light weight and has lots of compartments and cup holders and a big basket and big shaders. I would die w/o my travel system but I also wouldn't mind a jogging stroller, those things are niiiiice :)
Can't think of much else, if i do i will update!
LC
As I sit here folding laundry I realize I should just type this up while it is on my brain.
Clothing:
Carters: is cute and the outfits with the animals on the butt are sweet, BUT they do run a bit small. They were great when Henry was a newborn, the NB size was pretty accurate and fit him for about a month, but once he got to about 1mo old he was wearing 3mo size clothes from Carters.
Koala Baby: LOVE them! This brand is sold mostly at BabysRus, it might even be BRU brand, I am not sure, but the fabric is soft and comfortable. Comfort is a huge thing with Henry, he fusses if you put itchy acrylic fabric on him or polo fabric like Polo Ralph Lauren. I have two outfits from Koala Baby and they are his favorite.
Janie and Jack: Expensive but the quality is the best I've seen from all other brands. If you hold in your hand a Carters onesie and a Janie and Jack onesie you can feel and SEE the difference. Ive had a onesie from them since Henry was 2mo old and he is almost 5mo and it still fits him great and has held up. If I had no budget I would shop there for all of Henrys clothing needs.
HINT: Biggest lesson I have learned since having a baby, DON'T skimp on the important things- you get what you pay for. If you buy cheap clothes, you get cheap clothes, if you buy a cheap diaper bag, it WILL fall apart.
Gerber: Im not such a big fan of their clothing line, or really anything from them. It feels cheap, very thin fabric, it stretches when you dont really want it to and they run really small.
TOYS
Fisher-Price: They ended up being the only brand we use and we didnt even realize it. We have a swing, play mat and jumperoo from them. Our high chair is from them, our bath tub as well. They just ended up always have the best products and we didnt realize it until they were all in the same room together.
We like to go to BRU with Henry and test out the products. There have been times where we would go get something and he didnt adjust well to it or like it so we ended up wasting money and time. Also there are toys that he doesnt like because the colors are not bright enough for him to make out yet. His favorite color is red but he also still favors black and white patterns. He reacts to Kevin the most because he has thick black rimmed glasses and really loves them. When my mom was here she couldn't get any kind of reaction from him, no laughs, no giggles. But the second she put on her readers, he thought she was the coolest thing since sliced bread.
First Years: We use their bottle products such as their bottle warmer, and bottle drying rack. I like the simplistic style and no fuss of their brand.
Medela: Go big or Go Home. They are the most expensive but worth every penny. My breast pump was $300 but they do go on sale once every season for about 20% off. I use my breast pump about 6-7 times a day for around 20 minutes. And with out it I wouldn't be able to feed my child. So I have used it roughly 1050+ times since Henrys birth and it still has the most powerful suction EVER. The quality is out standing and the pump comes in a great tote bag. Didnt think I would need the bag but omg its right next to the diaper bag in the essential department. So all in all the pump paid for itself after only a few weeks worth of use. And regardless if you are breastfeeding solely you will need a pump, for when you are away from your baby or if they didnt eat all that you had produced etc etc. And no, its not so simple to just manually pump it off- who has time for that!?
Munckin: LOVE LOVE LOVE this brand. They are good on the 'feeding' front. They have good sack mesh feeders, they have great feeding spoons, they have great closet organizers- which was Henry's 'closet' for the first 3mo of his life. They have great diaper organizer-which I LIVE BY! They have an 'OK' bottle basket for the dishwasher, i dont LOVE it because my Medela bottles dont fit too nicely in it. But everything else I have bought from them is super dee duper sweet.
Boppy: Get one, and you will have a wonderful life :D
Bumbo: Our child has the worlds fattest thighs, so he doesn't enjoy sitting in it too much because he gets stuck or it squishes down on his thighs and he gets un-happy
Evenflo: They are ok, I only have one product of theirs, a travel system. I love my stroller, it is bulky but light weight and has lots of compartments and cup holders and a big basket and big shaders. I would die w/o my travel system but I also wouldn't mind a jogging stroller, those things are niiiiice :)
Can't think of much else, if i do i will update!
LC
June 21, 2011
How is ur new place? All settled in?
The new place is wonderful! The floorplan is a mirror image of the one we wanted so i am still adjusting to not getting what i really wanted :( It is GREAT that we have a bed/bath for all of our guests and that Henry has his own room where he can sleep peacefully through the night.
We are pretty much settled in, just some decorating that needs to be finished
June 06, 2011
New Horizons
So many things happening for us lately. We are moving out of our first family home this weekend. Bittersweet. We have been wanting to get a bigger place ever since we moved in, finding out 4 days before we moved up to Akron that we were expecting. After already signing our lease on a modest 1bd/1ba. Now that it is here, I am extraordinarily sad. This is where Henry was when he was 5 weeks old, until the day we brought him home from the hospital. The home where he slept in his first crib, he rolled over for the first time, the only place he has ever known. Yes, I know we are speaking of a 4 month old. But never in my life have I wanted to stay in the same place, until now. Now I get it. Now I know why people move, why they want a house before they have children, why they want their home to be one they live in for many many years. :(
Regardless, the new place is bigger, better and holds a brighter future for us all. Henry will have his own big boy room, Pappa Clouse will have a place for his home office, I will have a sunroom for my reading, and tea drinking. It will be so great for our budding family.
Kev's career is taking off for him, and I am so very happy for him, I have settled into my nook of being a momma. Henry is growing like a weed, rolling over, trying to talk, standing up, trying to walk, trying to crawl, blowing bubbles, everything! He is such a big boy. We have met some new friends, things seem to be bright for us. We are finally getting our heads above the water. It feels great!
I have been perused after for jobs as well. Something I am considering at a distance. It would have to be a great opportunity, I dont want to let another one go again, so timing is everything. I am warming up to the idea. I would still like to wait until Henry is 1 year old, not breastfeeding and his cows milk allergy is under control. I want him to be walking and more mobile. I have a few interviews set up in the next few weeks. We will see how this all pans out. No rush for sure.
I just felt like typing a quick update while resting during packing. Boy wont I be glad when we are done packing and unpacking! My lil bugger just woke up from his daily afternoon nap, I must go get him and make up a bottle :)
CIaO
LC
Regardless, the new place is bigger, better and holds a brighter future for us all. Henry will have his own big boy room, Pappa Clouse will have a place for his home office, I will have a sunroom for my reading, and tea drinking. It will be so great for our budding family.
Kev's career is taking off for him, and I am so very happy for him, I have settled into my nook of being a momma. Henry is growing like a weed, rolling over, trying to talk, standing up, trying to walk, trying to crawl, blowing bubbles, everything! He is such a big boy. We have met some new friends, things seem to be bright for us. We are finally getting our heads above the water. It feels great!
I have been perused after for jobs as well. Something I am considering at a distance. It would have to be a great opportunity, I dont want to let another one go again, so timing is everything. I am warming up to the idea. I would still like to wait until Henry is 1 year old, not breastfeeding and his cows milk allergy is under control. I want him to be walking and more mobile. I have a few interviews set up in the next few weeks. We will see how this all pans out. No rush for sure.
I just felt like typing a quick update while resting during packing. Boy wont I be glad when we are done packing and unpacking! My lil bugger just woke up from his daily afternoon nap, I must go get him and make up a bottle :)
CIaO
LC
May 30, 2011
May 27, 2011
what is a must have staple item(s) in your pantry?
what is a must have staple item(s) in your pantry?
Day in The Life of A Stay At Home Madre
Today I am going to document a day in the life of a Stay at Home Momma. I want to film it and post it to my YT channel, BUT with no film editing equipment it would turn out ridiculous. SO I will keep this tab open on my computer and just write as my day progresses, who knows how it will turn out?
5:00 AM:
Zoey wakes us up by barking insistently at the bedroom door, thinking we are under attack due to the A/C turning on, which causes our door to open by itself. Thus, waking me up and not surprisingly Henry as well, yet my husband slumbers along in deep sleep land....GRRRR! I had just gone back to bed after getting up at 3AM to pump and trying to keep Henry asleep after he woke due to hearing ME wake up...LONG night needless to say.
5:25AM :
I get up huffy and puffy, pick up my stinker of a lil boy and carry him into the kitchen where I prepare one of his bottles simultaneously starting a pot of coffee, My sweet husband, follows me out a few moments later, fixes my cup of coffee and gives me a kiss and hug trying to make me feel better....it did :)
6:00AM:
Henry plays on his playmat until he falls asleep on it (YES! SCORE!) Kev is getting ready for work, and I am watching taped shows, surfing the net. Realize that Henry crapped his pants, so much so that he has ruined his outfit...change him and pray he doesnt pee on me while I clean poo that has creeped all the way up his back lol.
6:30AM:
Kev leaves for work, I put Henry back to bed, and start writing this blog, also I start uploading a make-up video on YT that probably wont be viewable to public until late afternoon (hate that about YT).
7:00AM
I am about to go clean my breastshields and bottles, get some aqua and start pumping...then hopefully manage to get some towels out of the dryer without waking Henry and take a quick shower before he wakes up for his next bottle...
8:00AM
I made it! pumped, showered and watched one whole taped show. Now onto drinking the rest of my coffee, eating a deeelish Oats'N Dark Chocolate granola bar, and watching the Today Show :D
talked to jess on the phone while taking zozo outside- she pissed in the house for the 3rd time in two days (i think she might have a bladder infection) Henry took a looong nap that I know he needed (and thank goodness b/c i needed some me time)
9:00AM
Henry woke up peacefully from his nap, feeding him a bottle while typing this, got to change his diaper and then go call the vet about Zozo, and then call KY court of clerks about my stupid car taxes (they have to send me some paper work about my property taxes due on my old car we sold last year that they think i still owe on and i dont) still uploading YT video, and just thought of some good ideas for more videos that i will tape today if i get time.
As i burp Henry he pukes all over myself and him...change of outfit numero dos for him and uno for me! yay... what a great day it has been in Zee House of Clouse today! lol...
update: I went to give Henry a kiss, he puked on my face...thank goodness I hadn't changed his outfit just yet...did I mention its merely 9:36AM?? yes, yes, the day for most people has yet to start and mine is already a shit show!
10:00AM
Called Vet, Zozo has an apportionment this afternoon that will probably cost the same amount as a good coach purse. Brats...stupid Vets make so much money they could retire after seeing only a handful of sick animals. We've already spent $300 on her this month because she was behind on vaccinations. Times/Days like these I wish I could drink my sorrows, but I am allergic to alcohol and I dont smoke, I can't eat chocolate (yes I know I said I ate a chocolate granola bar earlier but it didnt contain milk) because I cannot eat milk due to Henry's milk allergy...What's a girl to turn to?!?! Faith...I guess I will just have to pray my way through today....
11:00AM
Took zozo out again, trying to drain her bladder, feeling really bad for her now b/c she is acting like she is in pain, and being a female myself I know the pain of a UTI :(. Henry went down for another nap. He played on his mat and in his jumperoo but quickly became over stimulated and earned some shut eye. I talked to my madre and my grandma.
12:00PM
Cleaned some bottles and my pump parts, stored/froze 30oz of milk for Mothers Milk Bank of Ohio, hoping to store at least 20 more ounces by the end of the day. Set some meat out for dinner and folded some laundry, finished uploading my make-up vlog and started uploading a video of Henry from last night. Now I am pumping, hoping Henry doesnt wake up yet so I can get at least 10oz out, also hoping zozo doesnt pee in the house again..
1:00PM
Henry is still sleeping peacefully, Ive uploaded a video of Henry playing in his jumperoo on YT and answered/asked some questions on Formspring (find me at Clouseable). Ate some lunch, yummers, now going to attempt to get my makeup put on before Henry wakes up...2 long naps today, Im telling you this is UNUSUAL! He is usually up all day/afternoon but I guess since last night with sicky poo Zozo he needs to catch up on his beauty sleep. Hoping Kev gets to come home early from work today if it is slow at the office but looking like he might just get home on time, which is still splendid.
2:00PM
Took zozo out for the millionth time, got caught by my neighbor collecting her pee into a plastic container. I used a storage container I have for storing my breastmilk lol. She has also caught me pulling a dingle berry out of her butt and wiping her butt with a wet wipe after she had diarrhea...needless to say i look beyond crazy to this woman. story of my life. Kev got home early! WEEE! So now I have someone to watch Henry as i take my first born (zozo) to the vet, thank gosh. I fed Henry, cleaned/picked up the house quickly and did another load of laundry. Loaded more pictures, videos to the computer and to facebook. Feeling totally accomplished today. Glad i decided to make this blog today, on a day where there was tons of comic relief as well as a day where i got a ton done due to Henrys outrageous naps...
3:00PM
About to leave for vet, and Henry in the hands of daddy...happy friday evening everyone! I made it through another day of motherhood, another day in spit up paradise....
4:00PM and 5:00PM
Update on Zozo Bean..do you know what is wrong with her? ABSOLUTELY NADA! freaking dog was just wizzing in the house bc she was being a brat who has a loose goose. Can't believe it, only $60 spent to find that out and although that is not much it is $60 we could of spent on a nice dinner or groceries or something. crap-zola. Glad Kev was able have some one on one time with Henry while I was taking care of Zozo bean. Home now, just pumped, updated this blog for 10th time, looked up some recipes and now headed to the kitchen to fix dinner/eat.
SO glad it is the weekend, I hope all of you have a fabulous and SAFE weekend of celebrating the extra day off work :D Can't wait for some sunshine, more couponing and making more videos!
XOXOXOXO
<3LC
5:00 AM:
Zoey wakes us up by barking insistently at the bedroom door, thinking we are under attack due to the A/C turning on, which causes our door to open by itself. Thus, waking me up and not surprisingly Henry as well, yet my husband slumbers along in deep sleep land....GRRRR! I had just gone back to bed after getting up at 3AM to pump and trying to keep Henry asleep after he woke due to hearing ME wake up...LONG night needless to say.
5:25AM :
I get up huffy and puffy, pick up my stinker of a lil boy and carry him into the kitchen where I prepare one of his bottles simultaneously starting a pot of coffee, My sweet husband, follows me out a few moments later, fixes my cup of coffee and gives me a kiss and hug trying to make me feel better....it did :)
6:00AM:
Henry plays on his playmat until he falls asleep on it (YES! SCORE!) Kev is getting ready for work, and I am watching taped shows, surfing the net. Realize that Henry crapped his pants, so much so that he has ruined his outfit...change him and pray he doesnt pee on me while I clean poo that has creeped all the way up his back lol.
6:30AM:
Kev leaves for work, I put Henry back to bed, and start writing this blog, also I start uploading a make-up video on YT that probably wont be viewable to public until late afternoon (hate that about YT).
7:00AM
I am about to go clean my breastshields and bottles, get some aqua and start pumping...then hopefully manage to get some towels out of the dryer without waking Henry and take a quick shower before he wakes up for his next bottle...
8:00AM
I made it! pumped, showered and watched one whole taped show. Now onto drinking the rest of my coffee, eating a deeelish Oats'N Dark Chocolate granola bar, and watching the Today Show :D
talked to jess on the phone while taking zozo outside- she pissed in the house for the 3rd time in two days (i think she might have a bladder infection) Henry took a looong nap that I know he needed (and thank goodness b/c i needed some me time)
9:00AM
Henry woke up peacefully from his nap, feeding him a bottle while typing this, got to change his diaper and then go call the vet about Zozo, and then call KY court of clerks about my stupid car taxes (they have to send me some paper work about my property taxes due on my old car we sold last year that they think i still owe on and i dont) still uploading YT video, and just thought of some good ideas for more videos that i will tape today if i get time.
As i burp Henry he pukes all over myself and him...change of outfit numero dos for him and uno for me! yay... what a great day it has been in Zee House of Clouse today! lol...
update: I went to give Henry a kiss, he puked on my face...thank goodness I hadn't changed his outfit just yet...did I mention its merely 9:36AM?? yes, yes, the day for most people has yet to start and mine is already a shit show!
10:00AM
Called Vet, Zozo has an apportionment this afternoon that will probably cost the same amount as a good coach purse. Brats...stupid Vets make so much money they could retire after seeing only a handful of sick animals. We've already spent $300 on her this month because she was behind on vaccinations. Times/Days like these I wish I could drink my sorrows, but I am allergic to alcohol and I dont smoke, I can't eat chocolate (yes I know I said I ate a chocolate granola bar earlier but it didnt contain milk) because I cannot eat milk due to Henry's milk allergy...What's a girl to turn to?!?! Faith...I guess I will just have to pray my way through today....
11:00AM
Took zozo out again, trying to drain her bladder, feeling really bad for her now b/c she is acting like she is in pain, and being a female myself I know the pain of a UTI :(. Henry went down for another nap. He played on his mat and in his jumperoo but quickly became over stimulated and earned some shut eye. I talked to my madre and my grandma.
12:00PM
Cleaned some bottles and my pump parts, stored/froze 30oz of milk for Mothers Milk Bank of Ohio, hoping to store at least 20 more ounces by the end of the day. Set some meat out for dinner and folded some laundry, finished uploading my make-up vlog and started uploading a video of Henry from last night. Now I am pumping, hoping Henry doesnt wake up yet so I can get at least 10oz out, also hoping zozo doesnt pee in the house again..
1:00PM
Henry is still sleeping peacefully, Ive uploaded a video of Henry playing in his jumperoo on YT and answered/asked some questions on Formspring (find me at Clouseable). Ate some lunch, yummers, now going to attempt to get my makeup put on before Henry wakes up...2 long naps today, Im telling you this is UNUSUAL! He is usually up all day/afternoon but I guess since last night with sicky poo Zozo he needs to catch up on his beauty sleep. Hoping Kev gets to come home early from work today if it is slow at the office but looking like he might just get home on time, which is still splendid.
2:00PM
Took zozo out for the millionth time, got caught by my neighbor collecting her pee into a plastic container. I used a storage container I have for storing my breastmilk lol. She has also caught me pulling a dingle berry out of her butt and wiping her butt with a wet wipe after she had diarrhea...needless to say i look beyond crazy to this woman. story of my life. Kev got home early! WEEE! So now I have someone to watch Henry as i take my first born (zozo) to the vet, thank gosh. I fed Henry, cleaned/picked up the house quickly and did another load of laundry. Loaded more pictures, videos to the computer and to facebook. Feeling totally accomplished today. Glad i decided to make this blog today, on a day where there was tons of comic relief as well as a day where i got a ton done due to Henrys outrageous naps...
3:00PM
About to leave for vet, and Henry in the hands of daddy...happy friday evening everyone! I made it through another day of motherhood, another day in spit up paradise....
4:00PM and 5:00PM
Update on Zozo Bean..do you know what is wrong with her? ABSOLUTELY NADA! freaking dog was just wizzing in the house bc she was being a brat who has a loose goose. Can't believe it, only $60 spent to find that out and although that is not much it is $60 we could of spent on a nice dinner or groceries or something. crap-zola. Glad Kev was able have some one on one time with Henry while I was taking care of Zozo bean. Home now, just pumped, updated this blog for 10th time, looked up some recipes and now headed to the kitchen to fix dinner/eat.
SO glad it is the weekend, I hope all of you have a fabulous and SAFE weekend of celebrating the extra day off work :D Can't wait for some sunshine, more couponing and making more videos!
XOXOXOXO
<3LC
May 25, 2011
What are some good YT video ideas? Anything you all would like to see?
What are some good YT video ideas? Anything you all would like to see?
if you could be invisible for a day, what would you do?
if you could be invisible for a day, what would you do?
What would you try if you had no fear?
i am not afraid of much, the things i fear are things that could be done to me i.e. kidnapping, burglary, death etc. BUT if i had no fear of the horrible outcome, length of time it would take to grow back, or public humiliation, i would shave my head....even though i CLEARLY know i dont have the face type for it :)
May 24, 2011
If you won a $1,000 shopping spree for any store, which store would you pick?
The obvious answer would be Chanel. If I could have anything in the world it would be anything Chanel. Not because it is trendy among teenage girls who think they are stylish, but because I love her story, her struggle, her stubbornness, her work, the artistry, Karl Lagerfeld- his story, his quirkiness, I love it all.
If you could only watch one TV show what would it be?
I don't watch much TV, but I do love my Real Housewives- so entertaining and ridiculous.
What was the happiest moment in your life?
The happiest moment of my life is tied between two great days: the day I got married to my absolute soul mate and the day I delivered our son. :D
Who inspires you the most?
My father. He went from store management of Kroger to the President of Dillons (owned by Kroger), never have been more proud of him and the amazing things he is doing for the company, especially now after one of his stores was ruined in the Joplin, MO tornado. Such a great leader. Such an inspiration to me, every.single.day. Love you!
May 23, 2011
If you wrote your autobiography, what would the title be?
'Are you there chocolate? It's me, Lauren'--muah ha ahah a
May 21, 2011
what is your favorite thing to do as a family / couple on beautiful sun shiny days?
what is your favorite thing to do as a family / couple on beautiful sun shiny days?
May 20, 2011
What is your 'love language'? from the book/philosophy 'The 5 Love Languages': Words of Admiration, Quality Time, Receiving Gifts, Acts of Service, Physical Touch?? Take the test here http://www.5lovelanguages.com/assessments/love/
What is your 'love language'? from the book/philosophy 'The 5 Love Languages': Words of Admiration, Quality Time, Receiving Gifts, Acts of Service, Physical Touch?? Take the test here http://www.5lovelanguages.com/assessments/love/
What's the most expensive thing you've ever bought?
im frugal, i dont buy anything over $20, that goes for clothes,dinners out, things for the house etc. with that said the most expensive thing i (had to) paid for, in cash, was a $400 ticket for turning left on a red light in beverly hills- darn those intersection cameras!
Secret tricks to coping with a fussy baby? what works best for your children?
Secret tricks to coping with a fussy baby? what works best for your children?
Do you have any traditions you want to do with henry? And your new family?
i haven't really given it much thought yet. we haven't had the opportunity to establish any thus far. all of our traditions got jacked this year with my family being spread across the U.S., things had to be done differently. There are things I want done the same as when I was a child, my mother being home when we left and got home from school. My father being at every single one of our track meets, swim meets etc. Visiting with family as much as possible. things like that..
May 19, 2011
if you were a first mom again what would u register for? what would u not register for? what would you buy yourself?
i would register for: medela pump, travel system,play mat, jumperoo, soothie pacifiers, baby bjorn, jj cole bundle me, crib mattress, pack n' play, nursing tank tops, crib bedding, crib, changing mat, changing table, closet organizer, boppy, bumbo
i would buy: plastic bin organizers for all the extra stuff you will get but wont want out/need right away, Always Infinity pads by Always - THE BEST (trust trust trust me lol) pacifiers, diaper bag, prefold diapers for burp rags, a bathtub, baby washcloths..
i wouldn't register for: clothes, diapers, bottles, nipples, furniture, blankets...pretty much the things you will get anyways and the things you know you probably wont get. also i wouldn't register for bath products. But i would wait to buy anything myself until after the shower. and request that ppl bring gift receipts attached to the gifts to the shower because babysRus and target have very strict return policies.
what baby products could you not live without?
medela pump, soothie pacifiers (they are the only kind henry takes), fisher-price play mat, fisher-price jumperoo, fisher-price space saver swing, grooming kit- his fingernails grow out every other day, Gilllian&Omalley nursing tank tops- you will LIVE in them, especially if you are pumping, GAS drops!, breast pads (for leakage), bottle brush, bottle warmer!, medela bottles, 'first years modular drying rack' -bottle dryer, my monogrammed sherpa blanket from pottery barn kids- we call it 'the lullaby' because the second it touches his skin he falls asleep for hours! this is all i can think of so far...
how many kids do you want?
I want either 1 or 3, my husband says our max is 3. Im really really really content with just having one, but i know i will get the baby bug again and i really truly want Henry to know the joy of siblings.
What are 3 things you wish you would have known before becoming a mom?
1.)how truly difficult breast feeding is. People say it is hard, but it really is a learning process for both you and the baby. trying not to get frustrated over having a lazy baby was difficult.
2.)i wish i would of known the pain of having a vaginal delivery would last 2 weeks.
3.)how much you DONT get to sleep. you hear ppl talk about it but it is SO different when you live through it. it gets better around 2 1/2 months though :D
Will you do anything different with your next baby? If so explain what...
I would rest more while pregnant, take more videos/pictures during the first few weeks. stock up on diapers size 1-2 (1-2 really is a size) stock up on wipes, make dinners and freeze them for the first few months that you have no energy. i would of bring my medela breast pump to the hospital and would start pumping directly after the birth-instead of waiting until day 3!
i dont think i would do anything different as a mom, i think i will just prep better.
May 18, 2011
Update
Just a quick update to let everyone know where I have been (if you cared/noticed). The past month and a half have been CRAZY! The first weekend in April Jess came to visit, then I went down to her house the second for a photo shoot done by our cousin, then the next weekend was Easter and we traveled down to Kentucky to be with both sets of family. We had a one weekend break where we had some much needed family time and then the first week in May I was in Kansas with both sisters and my one nephew. It has been madness for me and I have told all family members I am on a hiatus from traveling for at least a month or two. I have no energy left and having to deal with a crazy spastic dog along with single handily taking care of an infant for a weekend stay that takes 4.5hrs at least of car time to get to the destination I am done. Keeping Henry on schedule, pumping in the car, transferring breastmilk from cooler to fridge to cooler to bottle, lugging around 5 bags (at least) and doing it all in the constant rain we have had is enough to kill anyone's nerves.
I have thoroughly enjoyed all of our visits and visitors these last several weeks- do not get me wrong! It is part of the perk that comes with being a stay at home madre, getting to come and go on a whim. But my house has been a tore up mess, I haven't seen much of Kevin except for weekends (when I am home) and we are in the middle of a very big move! I am so happy to be just focused on the house, spring cleaning it while simultaneously packing up our lives to move into 1,300 glorious square feet of heaven! We have been counting down this move since March when we made the decision to stay in our beloved complex but upgrade to a 2bd/2ba apartment. And it is taking up all my time, I want to make sure this move goes as smoothly as possible. I started the packing process last weekend because when you have a 3month old you can really only get through packing one box before he needs/wants your attention. I work feverishly through his naps and plop him down in his jumper/play mat when ever I can spare a moment.
So in the midst of this great wonderful madness my life has ensued I have had no time to blog, or energy for that matter. I have so many stories I want to write about from this last month but that will have to wait until we get settled in the new place and I can take a breather.
And there is my cue....crying baby in his jumperoo begging momma to come relieve him from over stimulation of lights and rattles. LOL he is a sweet sweet boy. I love my job :D
More later my taters
<3 LC
I have thoroughly enjoyed all of our visits and visitors these last several weeks- do not get me wrong! It is part of the perk that comes with being a stay at home madre, getting to come and go on a whim. But my house has been a tore up mess, I haven't seen much of Kevin except for weekends (when I am home) and we are in the middle of a very big move! I am so happy to be just focused on the house, spring cleaning it while simultaneously packing up our lives to move into 1,300 glorious square feet of heaven! We have been counting down this move since March when we made the decision to stay in our beloved complex but upgrade to a 2bd/2ba apartment. And it is taking up all my time, I want to make sure this move goes as smoothly as possible. I started the packing process last weekend because when you have a 3month old you can really only get through packing one box before he needs/wants your attention. I work feverishly through his naps and plop him down in his jumper/play mat when ever I can spare a moment.
So in the midst of this great wonderful madness my life has ensued I have had no time to blog, or energy for that matter. I have so many stories I want to write about from this last month but that will have to wait until we get settled in the new place and I can take a breather.
And there is my cue....crying baby in his jumperoo begging momma to come relieve him from over stimulation of lights and rattles. LOL he is a sweet sweet boy. I love my job :D
More later my taters
<3 LC
April 28, 2011
Chili Spiced Mango
Yesterday afternoon I tootled on over to my neighbors house to watch her son as she did some errands around town and was welcomed to a pleasant surprise. She had called and told me she had picked something up for me that she thought I might like, she does this often, such a sweet thoughtful person. As I am unwrapping the gift my heart dropped and smiled. It was a package of my highly acclaimed Chili Spiced Mangos from Trader Joes. This was a snack I lived off of while residing in Los Angeles for 3 years. ( I haven't been able find them at my local Trader Joes in the last 2 cities I've lived in)
I have openly spoken about how much I treasured those 3 years I spent alone, growing up and discovering a new land as well as myself. It was a small memento that took me back to my apartment on Reeves Street- where I spent my weekends watching bad television eating Chili Spiced Mangos and working on projects for school.
Whenever I think back to those years I am astonished at my strength to do that journey and for doing it alone. Something as small as a snack from Trader Joes made me so reminiscent. Ahhh I just hope I can go back one day, when life has slowed down and Henry is old enough to understand where he is.
Until then I have my pictures, my memories and my treats! I am off to eat my treats, and today is cleaning day in the House of Clouse. A good spring cleaning hopefully. Tomorrow I will be up pumping and feeding Henry and watching the Royal Wedding!!! So glad I will already be up so I won't be ridiculously tired...
Im so excited, its the first 'huge' telecast event I will be watching. I've never seen anything like it before and Im sure there will be a blog to follow.
YAY!
LC
I have openly spoken about how much I treasured those 3 years I spent alone, growing up and discovering a new land as well as myself. It was a small memento that took me back to my apartment on Reeves Street- where I spent my weekends watching bad television eating Chili Spiced Mangos and working on projects for school.
Whenever I think back to those years I am astonished at my strength to do that journey and for doing it alone. Something as small as a snack from Trader Joes made me so reminiscent. Ahhh I just hope I can go back one day, when life has slowed down and Henry is old enough to understand where he is.
Until then I have my pictures, my memories and my treats! I am off to eat my treats, and today is cleaning day in the House of Clouse. A good spring cleaning hopefully. Tomorrow I will be up pumping and feeding Henry and watching the Royal Wedding!!! So glad I will already be up so I won't be ridiculously tired...
Im so excited, its the first 'huge' telecast event I will be watching. I've never seen anything like it before and Im sure there will be a blog to follow.
YAY!
LC
April 26, 2011
SUNSHINE!
Ok....so my nasty negative nancy attitude lately that I have been TRYING so dang hard to shake has finally lifted! I look outside and it is warm, and breezy, and sunshiny and glorious! Ahhhhh its like a breath of fresh air! Thank you Lord for a little relief from the 24/7 rain and cold. It is amazing what a little sunshine will do for your attitude. I am hoping to take my babies out to play in the warm weather this afternoon before it rains....again.
Ah this is exactly what the doctor ordered. It also makes me CRAVE watermelon, strawberries, PEACHES, oranges and more...Im very very happy today. Can't wait for our girls trip that starts in less than a week! Whooo hooo. My sisters, our babies, our momma, warm weather what else could we all ask for?!
Off to skip around and bask in the warmth mmm Hmmm!
LC
Ah this is exactly what the doctor ordered. It also makes me CRAVE watermelon, strawberries, PEACHES, oranges and more...Im very very happy today. Can't wait for our girls trip that starts in less than a week! Whooo hooo. My sisters, our babies, our momma, warm weather what else could we all ask for?!
Off to skip around and bask in the warmth mmm Hmmm!
LC
April 25, 2011
Traveled Out
This weekend we traveled down to Cincy once again to visit with our family for Easter. We had so much fun and the boys (Henry/Liam) enjoyed every minute of attention they received and kisses they got from the whole family.
I had a 'Im a bad mother moment' when we took the dogs for a walk and I didnt bring our travel system stroller with us because it takes up the entire trunk. So we used a umbrella stroller Jessica had on her and Henry fit right in it perfectly. I had a hat on him and pants and a long sleeve shirt and a blanket over him just so he would be warm and snug and happy. I put on some sunglasses too but his head isnt big enough yet so he cried until I took them off. The bad mother moment came hours later when I took Henry from Kev to feed him his bottle and noticed his face was really red. Instantly I went to the 'does he have a fever' mode and was checking his forehead and cheeks etc etc. Nope and Nope. Was he fussy? Nope. Was he just warm form being in his sherpa blanket? Nope again. Then it hit me---it was sunburn. And I crumbled, I was so angry at myself! How could I forget that he has 2 month old skin, pure, delicate skin. Didn't even think about putting on his boat hat, or applying SPF to his face. I hated myself. I was so so angry that I first off hadnt brought our good stroller with tons of shades, second that I was stupid enough to not think about applying SPF and so on and so on.
I had a lil hissy fit, which was heightened by my family trying to reassure me he would be fine and it wouldn't affect him greatly. Later on our way home and I was discussing it with Kevin I realized it was more of a emotional trauma to me then Henry. It was the first time that I did something neglectful that brought harm to him, maybe he didnt feel it, or it never bothered him, but there was physical evidence of neglect on his face via the sunburn on my behalf. I hated it! I made it into something bigger than it needed to be and didnt let it go for hours. I def was not enjoyable to be around for a moment. From the experience brought knowledge and lessons learned which is all you can take away from these kind of things. Glad is was minor and the sunburn has subsided greatly in the last two days. So thankful it wasnt worse and didnt cause much pain to my little bean.
After traveling friday thru sunday Kev and I got home literally exhausted on Sunday night. We alwayssss come home with more than we brought. Now our house looks like a tornado and none of us have clean clothes, the kitchen is sparce when it comes to food. Lots to do to catch up, which is something I've had to to a lot lately. With all our traveling, and travelers we are maxed out. I have traveled every weekend of april and have a big trip coming up in may to Kansas.
every time we travel it takes 3 hours to pack-load the car and get ready! I am ready for a staycation. where i stay at home, go to the pool and chill out and veg out. focusing only on the 'house of clouse' family. btw sorry everything is lower cased in this paragraph-currently feeding henry and typing one-handed. off the computer i go to tend to my needy baby.
much love
lc
I had a 'Im a bad mother moment' when we took the dogs for a walk and I didnt bring our travel system stroller with us because it takes up the entire trunk. So we used a umbrella stroller Jessica had on her and Henry fit right in it perfectly. I had a hat on him and pants and a long sleeve shirt and a blanket over him just so he would be warm and snug and happy. I put on some sunglasses too but his head isnt big enough yet so he cried until I took them off. The bad mother moment came hours later when I took Henry from Kev to feed him his bottle and noticed his face was really red. Instantly I went to the 'does he have a fever' mode and was checking his forehead and cheeks etc etc. Nope and Nope. Was he fussy? Nope. Was he just warm form being in his sherpa blanket? Nope again. Then it hit me---it was sunburn. And I crumbled, I was so angry at myself! How could I forget that he has 2 month old skin, pure, delicate skin. Didn't even think about putting on his boat hat, or applying SPF to his face. I hated myself. I was so so angry that I first off hadnt brought our good stroller with tons of shades, second that I was stupid enough to not think about applying SPF and so on and so on.
I had a lil hissy fit, which was heightened by my family trying to reassure me he would be fine and it wouldn't affect him greatly. Later on our way home and I was discussing it with Kevin I realized it was more of a emotional trauma to me then Henry. It was the first time that I did something neglectful that brought harm to him, maybe he didnt feel it, or it never bothered him, but there was physical evidence of neglect on his face via the sunburn on my behalf. I hated it! I made it into something bigger than it needed to be and didnt let it go for hours. I def was not enjoyable to be around for a moment. From the experience brought knowledge and lessons learned which is all you can take away from these kind of things. Glad is was minor and the sunburn has subsided greatly in the last two days. So thankful it wasnt worse and didnt cause much pain to my little bean.
After traveling friday thru sunday Kev and I got home literally exhausted on Sunday night. We alwayssss come home with more than we brought. Now our house looks like a tornado and none of us have clean clothes, the kitchen is sparce when it comes to food. Lots to do to catch up, which is something I've had to to a lot lately. With all our traveling, and travelers we are maxed out. I have traveled every weekend of april and have a big trip coming up in may to Kansas.
every time we travel it takes 3 hours to pack-load the car and get ready! I am ready for a staycation. where i stay at home, go to the pool and chill out and veg out. focusing only on the 'house of clouse' family. btw sorry everything is lower cased in this paragraph-currently feeding henry and typing one-handed. off the computer i go to tend to my needy baby.
much love
lc
April 21, 2011
Almost May
It's almost freaking MAY people! Holy guacamole. It's almost the 5th month of the year- which means we are ALMOST halfway through yet ANOTHER YEAR! Ok that might be pushing it a bit but still... insane. I haven't been posting as much these days and that isn't due to not having any time, it's due to lack of interest. My life as busy as it is, has actually slowed down quite a bit these days. Juggling a 11 week old isnt as hard as a 4-6wk old. We have a pretty solid routine these days (i say that all the time- because once you get settled in one thing, Henry will change it up so you have to re-organize your life every few weeks). He goes to bed around 9, Kev and I try to make it in there by 9:30 no later than 10pm. I wake at 3:30 to pump and Henry wakes at 4am to eat. We head back to bed by 4:30 and sleep as late as 8:30am. We start our day with breakfast and the Today show, and its seemingly easy after that.
I have a lot of empty time that I fill with getting the house back together- it gets trashed every night and every afternoon I clean it up again. I just have been so tired, and lethargic, un-motivated, almost bored. I feel like I have over-come just a large obstacle- the dust has settled and I find myself twiddling my fingers going 'this is it? What next?'. I am almost considering working the evenings or weekends or wishing we had family members to watch Henry so I could go work occasionally and not have to consider day care. Don't get me wrong I love staying at home, I love Henry and watching him grow and taking care of him 24/7 but I am looking for something new, exciting, challenging. Something to get me out of the house and mingle. Im still looking into what that might be- maybe with the May flowers budding and the weather warming up I may just find that I will spend lots of time outside and be pleased with fresh air.
We are currently chilling after a quick dinner- Henry is playing on his beloved play mat and Zoey is diligently watching Kevin out the window as he cleans my car :D I did as much as I could do today - which isn't much. Having a baby in a carseat and Zozo tied up to the gardrail equaled a not so productive spring cleaning of Betty White 2. Cleaning her up for our roadtrip down to NKY for Easter. Visiting with Kevin's side of the family and then toodling on back to Cleveland. Short and sweet. I haven't spent Easter with my family in 4 years! :( poo.
Well like I said, I don't have much inspiration, or anything I am crazed to write about. So until that magic strikes I will just be writing these boring random blogs to pass the time. Im now off to nap because this mamma was up allll night. Henry decided he wanted to wake up at 1:30 and not go back to bed until 3 and then wake up again at 6am. Joy.
nIghty nite
LC
I have a lot of empty time that I fill with getting the house back together- it gets trashed every night and every afternoon I clean it up again. I just have been so tired, and lethargic, un-motivated, almost bored. I feel like I have over-come just a large obstacle- the dust has settled and I find myself twiddling my fingers going 'this is it? What next?'. I am almost considering working the evenings or weekends or wishing we had family members to watch Henry so I could go work occasionally and not have to consider day care. Don't get me wrong I love staying at home, I love Henry and watching him grow and taking care of him 24/7 but I am looking for something new, exciting, challenging. Something to get me out of the house and mingle. Im still looking into what that might be- maybe with the May flowers budding and the weather warming up I may just find that I will spend lots of time outside and be pleased with fresh air.
We are currently chilling after a quick dinner- Henry is playing on his beloved play mat and Zoey is diligently watching Kevin out the window as he cleans my car :D I did as much as I could do today - which isn't much. Having a baby in a carseat and Zozo tied up to the gardrail equaled a not so productive spring cleaning of Betty White 2. Cleaning her up for our roadtrip down to NKY for Easter. Visiting with Kevin's side of the family and then toodling on back to Cleveland. Short and sweet. I haven't spent Easter with my family in 4 years! :( poo.
Well like I said, I don't have much inspiration, or anything I am crazed to write about. So until that magic strikes I will just be writing these boring random blogs to pass the time. Im now off to nap because this mamma was up allll night. Henry decided he wanted to wake up at 1:30 and not go back to bed until 3 and then wake up again at 6am. Joy.
nIghty nite
LC
April 18, 2011
Randomness
So Excited for the girls trip I have planned with my sisters in May <3
These last few weeks have been super fun, but tiring with all the traveling we have done and visitors we have had. I have gotten to see Lee Lee Bean two weekends in a row and my seester Jess and Amber.
Traveling with a baby is so crazy! I literally had a dog (who is CRAZY) a baby, and 5 bags with me at all times. I pumped while driving, which wasnt as bad/risky as I thought it would be, because I was determined not to stop and spend an hour in a vacant parking lot pumping,feeding, and burping Henry. I went down to Cincy on a wim thursday afternoon after finding out our cousin was available to do our pictures friday. It took me 3 non stop hours of packing to get on the road by noon. I didnt get to say goodbye to Kev or pick up the house it was just go go go go. The 4.5hr drive gets longer and longer when you drive it yourself with a 9week old. I stopped in the raging heat and feed Henry, burped him, changed his outfit/diaper and dealt with our dog Zoey who is clinically insane.
It was a fun experience and the older Henry gets and the more experienced I become at being a mother the more empowering it really truly is. I feel like I could seriously conquer anything.
Picture day came and Henry wasn't as photogenic as he usually is, he didn't smile for ONE picture. He usually smiles constantly and I have my little tricks to force one out if need be. Nope, not today, I had a mini Divo on my hands. He held up fairly well for the 5+ hour photoshoot and some really cute pics came out. I CANT WAIT to see what she does with them. So excited for some Henry art work to hang on the walls. The weekend ended on a sour note of a 3 day long migraine due to my wisdom teeth coming in through my jaw bone- must get those checked out asap. And like usual, if sunday is a mess then Monday is worse and Tuesday is recovery day. Henry is more and more alert each day and doesn't sleep much between feedings. He usually prefers being held or entertained constantly. Making it harder and harder to get anything done. Grrrr. Oh well- thats life these days :D
And as predicted Henry has now just awaken, searching the swing for something to suck on and when his blanket does not start lactating he starts crying. Which is right about....................now. bingo. crying baby. Must run. Maybe I should start writing these at night time? Oh wait, my husband (yes you Kev- I know you are reading this) steals the computer each and every night - but for good purpose, to do work. STILL ANNOYING! (Can we PLEASE get my computer fixed!?!!?!? Love you :p )
more later.
LC
These last few weeks have been super fun, but tiring with all the traveling we have done and visitors we have had. I have gotten to see Lee Lee Bean two weekends in a row and my seester Jess and Amber.
Traveling with a baby is so crazy! I literally had a dog (who is CRAZY) a baby, and 5 bags with me at all times. I pumped while driving, which wasnt as bad/risky as I thought it would be, because I was determined not to stop and spend an hour in a vacant parking lot pumping,feeding, and burping Henry. I went down to Cincy on a wim thursday afternoon after finding out our cousin was available to do our pictures friday. It took me 3 non stop hours of packing to get on the road by noon. I didnt get to say goodbye to Kev or pick up the house it was just go go go go. The 4.5hr drive gets longer and longer when you drive it yourself with a 9week old. I stopped in the raging heat and feed Henry, burped him, changed his outfit/diaper and dealt with our dog Zoey who is clinically insane.
It was a fun experience and the older Henry gets and the more experienced I become at being a mother the more empowering it really truly is. I feel like I could seriously conquer anything.
Picture day came and Henry wasn't as photogenic as he usually is, he didn't smile for ONE picture. He usually smiles constantly and I have my little tricks to force one out if need be. Nope, not today, I had a mini Divo on my hands. He held up fairly well for the 5+ hour photoshoot and some really cute pics came out. I CANT WAIT to see what she does with them. So excited for some Henry art work to hang on the walls. The weekend ended on a sour note of a 3 day long migraine due to my wisdom teeth coming in through my jaw bone- must get those checked out asap. And like usual, if sunday is a mess then Monday is worse and Tuesday is recovery day. Henry is more and more alert each day and doesn't sleep much between feedings. He usually prefers being held or entertained constantly. Making it harder and harder to get anything done. Grrrr. Oh well- thats life these days :D
And as predicted Henry has now just awaken, searching the swing for something to suck on and when his blanket does not start lactating he starts crying. Which is right about....................now. bingo. crying baby. Must run. Maybe I should start writing these at night time? Oh wait, my husband (yes you Kev- I know you are reading this) steals the computer each and every night - but for good purpose, to do work. STILL ANNOYING! (Can we PLEASE get my computer fixed!?!!?!? Love you :p )
more later.
LC
April 13, 2011
Deep Breath, Pray For Patience
Best advice I've ever taken from someone dealing with a newborn- step away, close your eyes, and ask God for patience. It really has helped me in those moments where I have poop on my clothes, my hair is a birds nest, Henry is screaming, my dog is pacing the house to go outside, dinner is burning on the stove and my husband is still hours away from coming home. I definitely have some really hard days, some lonely days and some amazing days. I have learned to listen more and take naps as much as possible even though I hate them.
The last couple days have been off and on with Henry- he had his vaccinations on monday. I was warned that he might be fussy- not warned that he would be out of control screaming, clawing at my arms, in desperate pain. It was awful. Having to hold down his sweet little arms so the doctor could give him two shots and watching his face go from happy to this face of 'mom! why are you holding down my arms so i can get hurt' and screaming. It broke my heart. He continued to scream while he was awake and the only time he got relief was after he exhausted himself and fell asleep. My poor nugget.
He really is so sweet, and just like his father. I have a really really good tempered baby, who just loves to be loved and cuddled, he rarely cries and when he does there is a legitimate reason for it-tired, hungry, wet diaper. That's it- only 3 reasons. He doesnt even cry when he has gas, which is OFTEN! LOL.
He is feeling better now and I bumped up his bottles to 5 ounces which needed to happen a week ago when he was wanting to eat every 1.5 hours. I didn't want to do anything that large until I consulted my doctor to make sure I wasnt over feeding him. Now that we have up'd the feedings he is so much happier, he sleeps better at night, he goes 3-4 hours between feedings which is unheard of and just seems more content. Currently he is sleeping next to me on the couch and i just looooove seeing his little belly rise and fall as he sleeps and his eyes moving as he dreams. I wonder what he is dreaming about?
Today I have some things to do around the house that didn't get accomplished since Sunday because I have been SO SO SO exhausted I can hardly move. Since Monday was a mess, Tuesday was recovery day and today is getting things back in order- I must have a clean house at all times, alllll times.
Counting down the days until this weekend where Jess and I will get some pictures taken by our photographer cousin Angela who does AMAZING work. I can't wait to hang them up in Henry's new room in our new apartment we are moving into in June.
Anywho off to grap a shower while my little man is in dreamy land <3
Ciao
LC
April 06, 2011
Rough Week
Let me preface this venting blog with the fact that my son some how reverted back to his 2week old newborn self this week and has refuuuused to sleep through the night, fusses if he doesnt have a constant nipple (of a bottle that is) in his mouth or pacifier within reach. He takes 4 hour long naps and when we wake him to feed he refuses. We are trying to get him out of these long naps during the day because he is having day/night confusion all of the sudden and sleeps too much during the day and not enough at night. Some may say 'what's the big deal you're a stay at home mom- you aren't effected by it'. Bull. Here is a *typical* day (one where our schedule runs perfectly and Henry sleeps 'through the night')
4:00-5:00 AM
Wake to pump & feed
7:00 AM
Henry wakes to feed again, I start some b-fast for Kev, myself (though whatever I start Kev has to finish because it never gets done with juggling Henry)
7:00-9:00 AM
I have to juggle pumping, then storing milk, cleaning bottles, eating b-fast, saying goodbye to Kev, jumping in shower, throwing laundry in to be done, feeding Henry and then getting him settled down again
9:00-12:00 PM
More pumping, taking Zoey out, finishing laundry, cleaning up the kitchen (finally) from b-fast, giving Henry a bath, cleaning up after the bath, starting more laundry, feeding Henry again - putting him down for his usual afternoon nap
12:00-3:00 PM
This is where I have my most down time, Henry is usually napping, I am snaking on some food, prepping for dinner, cleaning more bottles, some relaxation is involved...
3:00-6:00 PM
Getting dinner started, Henry starts waking up, more pumping, more feeding, usually have changed his outfit at least 3 times by now and about 10 dirty diapers, feed Zoey, and Kev gets home
6:00-9:00 PM
We've eaten dinner, I have to clean up after dinner, pump, feed, change Henry, rock him to sleep which can takes minutes to hours (sometimes 2 hours to get him to sleep), tidy up house, set our alarms so I can wake up in middle of night to pump, take Zoey out, Kev is usually wrapping up work that he has brought home and I, being completely pooped am crawling into bed (literally) excited for a good 4 hours of sleep.
2:00-3:00 AM
Waking up to pump, Henry sometimes wakes up during this time so I feed him, most of the time he sleeps through it.
4:00-5:00 AM
We start it ALL over again.
SOOOooo as you can see it is around the clock 24/7 job, there is SO much I left out that I can't even think of, every day there is a different battle, struggle or what have you that comes up, and there is really no 'set schedule' to Henry, he wants things at different times all the time I you just have to go with the flow.
Lately he is going through a growth spurt and wants to eat around the clock, and nap occasionally, he wants to be constantly entertained or held which can be a task in itself. So as you may imagine I have come to my whits end today. I am looking forward to my sister coming in from out of town to visit with her 1month old. Having someone going through the same thing is nice because they TRULY can relate where other just offer sympathy. Im excited for the cousin-brothers to meet. We call them this because they were born 3 weeks apart :D Physically they couldn't be more different, Liam is 4 weeks old and is only 7lbs 11oz and he was born bigger than Henry at 7lbs 3oz, where as Henry was born at 7lbs 1oz and is 8 weeks old weighing in at 12lbs or more (we haven't been to the dr in a while and go in a week so I am sure we will update then). Personality wise I am not quite sure because I've only seen Liam fresh from womb and never got to experience his character yet. Pictures to come of the two of them playing together.
Things getting me through this week:
1. yet another some what fun weekend planned with my husband where I get to torture him in the clothing department- he has some more giftcards to spend and of course I am right by his side helping him do it!
2.Jess' visit- she has never been to a SINGLE one of my apartments since I was 19. CRAY-ZAY.
3. Two Cincy trips planned in the coming weekends
4. Seeing Kev's family over the Easter weekend
5. EASTER!
6. The hope for warm weather, less rain, and some time spent out doors- at the pool, getting tan, swimming with Henry
Until then, I am going to make myself some toast, and then get back to the grind of the day.
<3 LC
4:00-5:00 AM
Wake to pump & feed
7:00 AM
Henry wakes to feed again, I start some b-fast for Kev, myself (though whatever I start Kev has to finish because it never gets done with juggling Henry)
7:00-9:00 AM
I have to juggle pumping, then storing milk, cleaning bottles, eating b-fast, saying goodbye to Kev, jumping in shower, throwing laundry in to be done, feeding Henry and then getting him settled down again
9:00-12:00 PM
More pumping, taking Zoey out, finishing laundry, cleaning up the kitchen (finally) from b-fast, giving Henry a bath, cleaning up after the bath, starting more laundry, feeding Henry again - putting him down for his usual afternoon nap
12:00-3:00 PM
This is where I have my most down time, Henry is usually napping, I am snaking on some food, prepping for dinner, cleaning more bottles, some relaxation is involved...
3:00-6:00 PM
Getting dinner started, Henry starts waking up, more pumping, more feeding, usually have changed his outfit at least 3 times by now and about 10 dirty diapers, feed Zoey, and Kev gets home
6:00-9:00 PM
We've eaten dinner, I have to clean up after dinner, pump, feed, change Henry, rock him to sleep which can takes minutes to hours (sometimes 2 hours to get him to sleep), tidy up house, set our alarms so I can wake up in middle of night to pump, take Zoey out, Kev is usually wrapping up work that he has brought home and I, being completely pooped am crawling into bed (literally) excited for a good 4 hours of sleep.
2:00-3:00 AM
Waking up to pump, Henry sometimes wakes up during this time so I feed him, most of the time he sleeps through it.
4:00-5:00 AM
We start it ALL over again.
SOOOooo as you can see it is around the clock 24/7 job, there is SO much I left out that I can't even think of, every day there is a different battle, struggle or what have you that comes up, and there is really no 'set schedule' to Henry, he wants things at different times all the time I you just have to go with the flow.
Lately he is going through a growth spurt and wants to eat around the clock, and nap occasionally, he wants to be constantly entertained or held which can be a task in itself. So as you may imagine I have come to my whits end today. I am looking forward to my sister coming in from out of town to visit with her 1month old. Having someone going through the same thing is nice because they TRULY can relate where other just offer sympathy. Im excited for the cousin-brothers to meet. We call them this because they were born 3 weeks apart :D Physically they couldn't be more different, Liam is 4 weeks old and is only 7lbs 11oz and he was born bigger than Henry at 7lbs 3oz, where as Henry was born at 7lbs 1oz and is 8 weeks old weighing in at 12lbs or more (we haven't been to the dr in a while and go in a week so I am sure we will update then). Personality wise I am not quite sure because I've only seen Liam fresh from womb and never got to experience his character yet. Pictures to come of the two of them playing together.
Things getting me through this week:
1. yet another some what fun weekend planned with my husband where I get to torture him in the clothing department- he has some more giftcards to spend and of course I am right by his side helping him do it!
2.Jess' visit- she has never been to a SINGLE one of my apartments since I was 19. CRAY-ZAY.
3. Two Cincy trips planned in the coming weekends
4. Seeing Kev's family over the Easter weekend
5. EASTER!
6. The hope for warm weather, less rain, and some time spent out doors- at the pool, getting tan, swimming with Henry
Until then, I am going to make myself some toast, and then get back to the grind of the day.
<3 LC
April 03, 2011
Weekend Love
What a awesome weekend it was! I love love love that Kev and I get to have family weekends together now. We didnt use to get to have family time ever, especially not the weekends or the entire weekend.
We went furniture shopping, and clothes shopping. Kev bought some delish new threads, a super sexy zip up hoodie and v-neck calvin klein shirt. How is a zip up hoodie sexy you ask? ahhh it just is. It fits him perfectly and when he pairs it with his sleek Levi's and Converse shoes I swoon :D.
I bought myself some new M.A.C. makeup and a tea kettle. so super pumped. I remember when I first got introduced to M.A.C. through my sisters and mom, I still was buying convenience store makeup that lasted all of 10 minutes and my sisters and mom had this glorious skin and superb eye makeup. I didn't get on the real bandwagon until my wedding in September. Instead of dropping a few hundred dollars on a one day make up artist we bought all the makeup I would need from M.A.C and I just now ran out of the foundation. The eye shadows last me at LEAST a year, and the blush I haven't even broken in. It is expensive but so worth it if you think about how much you use it and its your face! It needs high quality goods.
Im super stoked about using my cookbook I was given from my sister for my birthday this year called 5 ingredient fix by Claire Robinson. She takes 5 ingredients that are diverse but simple and makes a really complex meal out of them that usually takes no longer than 30 minutes. This sings to me because after 5 ingredients I get overwhelmed and anything longer than 30 minutes is no beuno because I have a baby. I plan on making Israeli Couscous, Buttermilk Pecan Chicken, Creamy Penne, Home Made White Pizza, S'mores, and more this week for Kev. 5 Ingredient Fix is also a TV show on Food Network and almost all of the recipes she makes on the show are in her book. I love having the time now to experiment in the kitchen and change up our beyond boring dinner menu.
Tonight is going to be fabulous, I LOVE sunday nights- which I use to LOATHE. Tonight 3 of my shows come on and monday night 2 more come on. Tonight is Sisterwives-which freaked me out in the beginning but now Im hooked, Kim and Kortney Take New York-which again I didn't like at first but now I love (and tonight is the season finale :( dislike BUT next week is Khloe and Lamar!) and then Real Housewives of Orange County (my FAV one of all the housewives- I mean they ARE the original). Plus it is suppose to thunderstorm and with my new tea kettle I shall be making loads of green tea- cuddling up on the couch watching bad reality TV and loving on my bebe cakes. Nothing sounds better than that.
Hope you all are enjoying the spring teasers - the random warm days throughout the week and have a happy blessed, and warm sunday and fab-tas-tic Monday!
<3 LC
We went furniture shopping, and clothes shopping. Kev bought some delish new threads, a super sexy zip up hoodie and v-neck calvin klein shirt. How is a zip up hoodie sexy you ask? ahhh it just is. It fits him perfectly and when he pairs it with his sleek Levi's and Converse shoes I swoon :D.
I bought myself some new M.A.C. makeup and a tea kettle. so super pumped. I remember when I first got introduced to M.A.C. through my sisters and mom, I still was buying convenience store makeup that lasted all of 10 minutes and my sisters and mom had this glorious skin and superb eye makeup. I didn't get on the real bandwagon until my wedding in September. Instead of dropping a few hundred dollars on a one day make up artist we bought all the makeup I would need from M.A.C and I just now ran out of the foundation. The eye shadows last me at LEAST a year, and the blush I haven't even broken in. It is expensive but so worth it if you think about how much you use it and its your face! It needs high quality goods.
Im super stoked about using my cookbook I was given from my sister for my birthday this year called 5 ingredient fix by Claire Robinson. She takes 5 ingredients that are diverse but simple and makes a really complex meal out of them that usually takes no longer than 30 minutes. This sings to me because after 5 ingredients I get overwhelmed and anything longer than 30 minutes is no beuno because I have a baby. I plan on making Israeli Couscous, Buttermilk Pecan Chicken, Creamy Penne, Home Made White Pizza, S'mores, and more this week for Kev. 5 Ingredient Fix is also a TV show on Food Network and almost all of the recipes she makes on the show are in her book. I love having the time now to experiment in the kitchen and change up our beyond boring dinner menu.
Tonight is going to be fabulous, I LOVE sunday nights- which I use to LOATHE. Tonight 3 of my shows come on and monday night 2 more come on. Tonight is Sisterwives-which freaked me out in the beginning but now Im hooked, Kim and Kortney Take New York-which again I didn't like at first but now I love (and tonight is the season finale :( dislike BUT next week is Khloe and Lamar!) and then Real Housewives of Orange County (my FAV one of all the housewives- I mean they ARE the original). Plus it is suppose to thunderstorm and with my new tea kettle I shall be making loads of green tea- cuddling up on the couch watching bad reality TV and loving on my bebe cakes. Nothing sounds better than that.
Hope you all are enjoying the spring teasers - the random warm days throughout the week and have a happy blessed, and warm sunday and fab-tas-tic Monday!
<3 LC
April 01, 2011
Peace of Mind
So. This week has been a bit of a roller coaster to say the least. I went from elated from getting a job offer to heart broken that I would have to leave my munchkin. Back and forth I went back and forth. I should of known posting my decision on facebook was a bad idea because I just kept going back and forth until I went crazy. Every time I made a decision I told myself and my family it was my final decision. and it was not. My heart was literally breaking, Wednesday was a terrible day for me because I just sat on the couch with Henry so sick to my stomach with stress and worry. I didn't know how I would manage our house life with work life and retail isnt forgiving when it comes to family time, vacations and weekends off. Kev and I have the same morals and values, he wants to spend his weekends and holidays with us. As do I. I am over being over worked and underpaid, constantly giving up what is most important to me i.e. family in order to have a career in fashion.
I thought long and hard about walking away from my dream job. I thought about all the benefits it would bring to my family and daily life. And then I realized those benefits would never out way missing out on Henry's life. I am happy to say today that I turned down the position. I am from now on a stay at home mother and couldn't be happier. My heart sings here in my home, like I've said before Im a home-body. I enjoy going out and doing the errands, taking care of the dog, the baby, the house. I enjoy meeting up with my husband for lunch and being home when he gets home. I enjoy seeing him take a load off the second he gets in the door and he has me as his sounding block.
I am most looking forward to having tons of free time to get our life back in order and catch up on all the things we have been putting off. I am REALLY excited about our vacation plans to Cincy, Kansas, Louisville etc. I am so excited to be able to drive down whenever we want to visit with family and no longer having conflicting work schedules. Life will be so much more stress free and our family unit will be very happy indeed. I am so so so so so happy, I wish I could share this love and happiness with everyone, I've truly found my calling in life :)
Today was a double bonus day- I was cleaning the house up and found over $400 in giftcards to our favorite stores from our wedding that we put aside and forgot about. What an awesome way to start the weekend! I was like heck to the yes! Going shopping this weekend for sure! Im not sure about this weather but I hope it warms up soon so that Kev and I can take Henry and Zozo up to the Peninsula walking trail. It's beautiful in the summer time and you can either rent bikes or just walk your dog/push a stroller through the wilderness. They have this adorable little ice cream shop at the beginning of the trail so you can eat, talk and walk. I love the little nooks and crannys of Hudson/Peninsula and how 'Gilmore Girls-ish' it feels. Can't wait to go to our pool either this summer since we completely missed out last summer.
All in all the future looks bright, my heart is full, my soul is happy, my family is warm and snuggled up in my lap and I am blissful.
Have a wonderful weekend- can't wait to dish to you all on what we purchased!
<3 LC
I thought long and hard about walking away from my dream job. I thought about all the benefits it would bring to my family and daily life. And then I realized those benefits would never out way missing out on Henry's life. I am happy to say today that I turned down the position. I am from now on a stay at home mother and couldn't be happier. My heart sings here in my home, like I've said before Im a home-body. I enjoy going out and doing the errands, taking care of the dog, the baby, the house. I enjoy meeting up with my husband for lunch and being home when he gets home. I enjoy seeing him take a load off the second he gets in the door and he has me as his sounding block.
I am most looking forward to having tons of free time to get our life back in order and catch up on all the things we have been putting off. I am REALLY excited about our vacation plans to Cincy, Kansas, Louisville etc. I am so excited to be able to drive down whenever we want to visit with family and no longer having conflicting work schedules. Life will be so much more stress free and our family unit will be very happy indeed. I am so so so so so happy, I wish I could share this love and happiness with everyone, I've truly found my calling in life :)
Today was a double bonus day- I was cleaning the house up and found over $400 in giftcards to our favorite stores from our wedding that we put aside and forgot about. What an awesome way to start the weekend! I was like heck to the yes! Going shopping this weekend for sure! Im not sure about this weather but I hope it warms up soon so that Kev and I can take Henry and Zozo up to the Peninsula walking trail. It's beautiful in the summer time and you can either rent bikes or just walk your dog/push a stroller through the wilderness. They have this adorable little ice cream shop at the beginning of the trail so you can eat, talk and walk. I love the little nooks and crannys of Hudson/Peninsula and how 'Gilmore Girls-ish' it feels. Can't wait to go to our pool either this summer since we completely missed out last summer.
All in all the future looks bright, my heart is full, my soul is happy, my family is warm and snuggled up in my lap and I am blissful.
Have a wonderful weekend- can't wait to dish to you all on what we purchased!
<3 LC
March 30, 2011
Water Therapy
You know how some people say 'in a past life I probably was a....blank...because..'? Well I know for sure, with out a doubt that I was most definitely a fish. If I feel sick, or have a cold, or have a headache and I go take the hottest hot shower I feel (at least for those 10minutes) relief. If I am stressed out or just under the weather a bath or hot shower seems to be my cure.
I love nothing more than jumping into the deep end of a pool and rolling around underwater. That feeling of floating underwater and being surrounded completely by water is so refreshing. It's a sort of 'coming home' to me the moment I hit the water.
I was a competitive swimmer my entire life until I reached the age of 16 and I no longer had a team to compete with. Also I wanted to start working (DUMB idea!). I loved every second of being a swimmer, it was the best exercise ever, and I had no idea how good it was for me. I loved the smell of the chlorine and pushing my self each practice. I formed some of the strongest friendships through swimming. Swimmers have a unique bond with one another, they most often are up at the crack of dawn and can get in a ridiculous workout in around 20minutes. I would compare it to cross-country running. You are swimming together for hours, you are moving water together. You form get bonds.
Today I have a brutal headache and Henry's crying is not helping what-so-ever. I've taken a shower and still feel awful, on the verge of puking which is just lovely. I need to lay down and nap this thing off but that's impossible since I haven't been home in 4 days. Constantly running around trying to get errands done, which by the way STILL haven't gotten completed- UGH. But anywho I am contemplating going and trying to take another shower and warming up. Worst part is having long hair and drying it again. boo.
The job decision is over and that is good news, I am nervous about starting and about how much sleep I will get but overall excited for the opportunity. It will be nice to get out of the house, get dressed with a purpose and spend some time away from the baby. It will be good too for Henry, he will get to socialize with other babies and Im really excited to see him make 'friends' :D
Im also VERY excited about the weather warming up- if EVER. I mean seriously snow in April, thats some bullshit peter rabbit who DIDNT see his shadow. Ok i know he isn't a rabbit, he is a ground hog but shit the easter bunny is coming to town and i dont think he likes hopping around in snow.....boo again.
Well Im off to go and try to cure this headache of mine. or take a nap. or shower away my sickness. or to ramble some more about nothing. ha.
Ciaoooo
<3 LC
I love nothing more than jumping into the deep end of a pool and rolling around underwater. That feeling of floating underwater and being surrounded completely by water is so refreshing. It's a sort of 'coming home' to me the moment I hit the water.
I was a competitive swimmer my entire life until I reached the age of 16 and I no longer had a team to compete with. Also I wanted to start working (DUMB idea!). I loved every second of being a swimmer, it was the best exercise ever, and I had no idea how good it was for me. I loved the smell of the chlorine and pushing my self each practice. I formed some of the strongest friendships through swimming. Swimmers have a unique bond with one another, they most often are up at the crack of dawn and can get in a ridiculous workout in around 20minutes. I would compare it to cross-country running. You are swimming together for hours, you are moving water together. You form get bonds.
Today I have a brutal headache and Henry's crying is not helping what-so-ever. I've taken a shower and still feel awful, on the verge of puking which is just lovely. I need to lay down and nap this thing off but that's impossible since I haven't been home in 4 days. Constantly running around trying to get errands done, which by the way STILL haven't gotten completed- UGH. But anywho I am contemplating going and trying to take another shower and warming up. Worst part is having long hair and drying it again. boo.
The job decision is over and that is good news, I am nervous about starting and about how much sleep I will get but overall excited for the opportunity. It will be nice to get out of the house, get dressed with a purpose and spend some time away from the baby. It will be good too for Henry, he will get to socialize with other babies and Im really excited to see him make 'friends' :D
Im also VERY excited about the weather warming up- if EVER. I mean seriously snow in April, thats some bullshit peter rabbit who DIDNT see his shadow. Ok i know he isn't a rabbit, he is a ground hog but shit the easter bunny is coming to town and i dont think he likes hopping around in snow.....boo again.
Well Im off to go and try to cure this headache of mine. or take a nap. or shower away my sickness. or to ramble some more about nothing. ha.
Ciaoooo
<3 LC
March 29, 2011
Big Decisions
As I am sure many of you know, I am quite busy being a full time mommy. Leaving no room for real world work. Even though I knew it might have to come down to me working on weekends and nights to bring in some extra cash I never thought to deep into it. Scratch that- I job searched like crazy before I delivered Henry, panicked that we wouldn't have enough money to cover our expenses. Without going into too much detail my husband and I figured out how to balance our budget with me not having to go back to work.
Well all of those applications went un-noticed by employers and interviews led to disappointing offers or no call back at all. Then there was one- my dream job I titled it...they came back with an offer I could work with. I negotiated for a better salary and for more hours. They were originally going to only offer me a part time position with little pay, I up'd it to full time and 2x the amount of money they were originally prepared to offer me. So for that, I was quite proud of my extraordinary hustling skills. But like always, (those who know me best knew this would happen) the second I get exactly what I want, I dont want it anymore- I see all the flaws in it. I get instantly disinterested. It's the fight I enjoy, the struggle the back and forth negotiations. I should seriously take up real estate! LOL. That's what happened yesterday, the company came back with an offer I couldn't refuse and they and I both knew it. Except I desperately wanted to refuse it because it was EXACTLY what I wanted and what I had been fighting for for 3 long weeks.
These are the times where I annoy the living shit out of myself. I would slap me if I was my friend. I was begging my husband to tell me what I didn't want to hear, to make the decision for me. I was begging anyone to make the decision for me. Neither my husband, nor I, want me to go back to work full time. We want our son to be raised in our hands, in our home by me, his mother. I know he will be fine and be a perfectly functioning human being one day, not affected by his 3 day stints in day care. I get that. It's the leaving him part, the trusting someone else to watch my baby, the honest to goodness love of my life.
What is so sick about this mental struggle I am in right now is that a year ago I would be creaming my pants at this offer and it wouldn't of taken me 3 seconds to make a decision. But like I've said before, I no longer get to do what I WANT anymore, but what is best for our family. If only my mother lived near by so she could be our daycare-some one I trust completely.
Bottom line is I am taking the job. I have to. If it doesnt work out then awesome I tried being a superhero mom for a day. Better to have tried and failed then never tried at all. I have to do this for myself (something I've continuously preached for weeks) my husband who works so hard for his family and my son who would greatly benefit from his mother being a more well rounded individual with a place to blow off steam. I am starting to get excited about being a career woman/wife/mother. That's a lot to take on but if anyone were to tell me I couldn't do it I'd fight like hell to prove them wrong. So I am going to take on this huge responsibility like someone has just looked me square in the face and said 'bring it'. Ha.
So today is the last day of errands because I start training next week so after today I am going to park my ass and enjoy this last week of maternity leave. I am getting my nails done to celebrate, and possibly shopping for a great first day at the office outfit.
Watch out world.
<3 LC
remember to celebrate yourself!
March 25, 2011
Nomad for Life
I have lived in more apartment complexes than I can count on one hand. Actually, I can still count them all on one hand, but you get my drift. I am a nomad at heart, I love having a new house, a new apartment, a new bedroom. A new place to discover, a new part of town you wouldn't neccesarly frequent if you did not live there. I love getting into new routines, the idea of it all is so very exciting, the executing of it is another story. Luckily I married a man who seems to enjoy the same aspects of moving as I and we have been looking at a new place to live since we moved into our current residence. Now don't get me wrong if we did not have a baby this apartment would be perfect for us. We did not find out we were expecting until 4 days prior to moving, a little to late to un-sign our year long lease and all other expenses. But this was a great starting point for us, we met a lot of great neighbors, doggie friends for Zoey and made a real connection to the community in which we live in. I love this apartment complex and we are currently working our asses off to find a way to afford living here in a bigger unit. Sounds crazy to spend so much on a apartment, not building any equity, and throwing $$ away but that is a whole nother blog in itself.
So anywho, as usual Kev and I got to talking about me going back to work, not going back to work, moving, not moving, etc etc last night at dinner and now my duty of the day is to call around and set up appointments for tomorrow. We shall spend the day in the House of Clouse mobile aka big bubba Tahoe touring around our oh so beloved city scoping out a new place to live. So many factors to have to think about now that we are married, have a dog and a baby. A decision rarely is solely based on what WE want, but what is GOOD for our family. That's the hard part about growing up, sometimes you have a lot less fun because your constantly worried about what is SAFE. boo. We are officially old :D
I actually think I would do in a industry such as real estate. That was my favorite part about moving from city to city when I was younger getting transferred with my father's job. We as children always got to tag along with my mother and house hunt. Taking notes, pictures etc. I loved it. Still do. I can walk into an apartment and instantly tell by the smell/architecture if its a go or no.
(ok side note: I am sitting here watching my beloved Today Show and they are talking about fashion trends and I cannot help myself but to comment....they are talking about how the '70's are back!' like hello- no freaking shit sherlock! they have always been back, there has ALWAYS been something or some part of fashion that channeled the 70's. ridiculous.......i guess i really do need to get back to work, get back to the grind of the fashion world. hmmm a thought to ponder).
I am rambling gambling along today, I think it has to do with this super snazzy wireless keyboard I am using that Kev got when we were contemplating canceling our cable and hooking our computer up to our TV and watching Netflix instead. which actually would be awesome except the connection was too slow and our TV sucks ass and I'm slightly attached to my Today Show :D But I do thoroughly enjoy typing on this keyboard. ha.
Welp, off I go to call my apartment complex's management team, then the vet, then the companies I've interviewed with for an update, then set up appointments for tomorrow all the while pumping/feeding/changing Henry and cleaning the house. Ahhhh the life eh?? ha ha
Much love and enjoy your weekend. REMEMBER to TREAT yourself to a lil something this weekend, you DESERVE IT!
LC
March 24, 2011
Creativity
Becoming a mom has caused many things in my life to be placed on hold. My marriage is on hold from time to time (thankfully I have a wonderfully understanding husband) my career (not that I have much of one) and my social life.
I am at Henry's constant woo and I use to HATE hearing other women say this but it isn't by choice and now I understand. But since he is so dependent upon me I don't have a life outside of his world.
Yesterday I was watching a youtube video of Lady Gaga at Google doing an interview about her life, and I was touched. I don't revel over public figures, my time in L.A. taught me that is a waste of time because celebrities are just glorified fuck ups. Anywho- I was watching this interview and it was an hour long and what possessed me to watch the entire thing who knows but I did and I learned something from it. I took something from her that I wasn't expecting to. She said a quote that I loved "Honor your creativity". So many people put their lives on hold for so many reasons every day and they dont honor their creativity they dont answer the door. And in that moment I stopped, I realized I have been denying myself my life, my career, my creativity. I have been juggling a husband, a dog, a baby, a house, work etc and lost Lauren. So today I beg you to stop and think about yourself, treat yourself be yourself. I stopped doing that and I have enjoyed giving my every being to Henry- my body as his home, my time for his nurturing, my body for his food. But now its momma's time!
I am focusing on making time for all the things that make me tick, that keep me happy and de-stress me.
That thing right now is a quick cat nap before Henry wakes up :D
random blurb from my brain not necessarily a blog post but that's my life these days <3
LC
I am at Henry's constant woo and I use to HATE hearing other women say this but it isn't by choice and now I understand. But since he is so dependent upon me I don't have a life outside of his world.
Yesterday I was watching a youtube video of Lady Gaga at Google doing an interview about her life, and I was touched. I don't revel over public figures, my time in L.A. taught me that is a waste of time because celebrities are just glorified fuck ups. Anywho- I was watching this interview and it was an hour long and what possessed me to watch the entire thing who knows but I did and I learned something from it. I took something from her that I wasn't expecting to. She said a quote that I loved "Honor your creativity". So many people put their lives on hold for so many reasons every day and they dont honor their creativity they dont answer the door. And in that moment I stopped, I realized I have been denying myself my life, my career, my creativity. I have been juggling a husband, a dog, a baby, a house, work etc and lost Lauren. So today I beg you to stop and think about yourself, treat yourself be yourself. I stopped doing that and I have enjoyed giving my every being to Henry- my body as his home, my time for his nurturing, my body for his food. But now its momma's time!
I am focusing on making time for all the things that make me tick, that keep me happy and de-stress me.
That thing right now is a quick cat nap before Henry wakes up :D
random blurb from my brain not necessarily a blog post but that's my life these days <3
LC
March 12, 2011
Pet Peeves/Obessions
I know a blog NOT about Henry, being a mom or discussions of my body changing. Ha! I thought I would make a fun blog and request comments with your responses of what YOUR pet peeves/obsessions are... I've always found it to be a fascinating subject to talk about. I love hearing peoples off the wall pet peeves. Here are a few of mine....and none of them really make any sense, I've yet to figure out why I hate certain things and love other things...Im making no sense so moving on...
PET PEEVES:
sneezing: I hate it, can't stand it, want to puke and hit the person square in the face when I hear that loud obnoxious noise. BUT I LOVE the relief I GET when I sneeze.
wearing socks to bed: grooooossss. you've walked around all day in the house in those things, they collect dirt and hold in sweat. the texture is gross as well.
loud televisions: nothing worse than sitting in someone's house with their tv on so loud that it gives you a headache. especially if it is on the cartoon network channel.
people that say 'like' or 'um' every other word: AHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!
people that 'suck' on their teeth to get old food residue out: give me a pitch fork and I'll scrape it out FOR YA!
people who leave whiteheads on their face and don't pop them: I'm sorry but I love a good pop of the pimple, it feels like relief it's visually stimulating to see the expression of puss come out and a scab looks better than a snow peaked mount Everest on your chin so POP that son of a gun.
OBSESSIONS:
cookie dough: I've become obsessed ever since having Henry. I don't even like the cookie form anymore, I solely eat the dough around the clock all day long.
drinking from straws: it just feels right
reality tv: I can't pull myself away. Real housewives depicts how I would like to live my life materialistically NOT personally, no drama.
photography: take me to a place I've never been.
blackberry: take it from me and your fingers will be chopped. Im also glad Kev now has a work blackberry because he is now obsessed with me as well.
cleaning baby bottles: it's what every little girl pretended to do growing up. you play house, and pretend you have a baby and wash bottles and feed them a bottle etc etc...no? that was just me? ohh...
changing Henry's diapers: again....might be just me. lol.
mowing the grass: it is pure joy to cut the grass- riding lawn mower only of course and I am determined to purchase a riding lawn mower and cut the grass weekly once we own our own home and have a big glorious yard :D
picking my nose: I'll own up to it, in the privacy of my own home it's nice to find relief in getting that crud out, and NO you cannot get it ALL out with a tissue and YES I thoroughly wash my hands after wards.
riding a bike: it's like flying but better.
watching Henry sleep: no better joy in the world then seeing him in the most peaceful state, dreaming and on occasion smiling during a dream. staring down at a miracle.
Im sure there are a thousand more I could think of but for now my child is crying for a bottle so I must wrap it up <3
ENJOY!
LC
PET PEEVES:
sneezing: I hate it, can't stand it, want to puke and hit the person square in the face when I hear that loud obnoxious noise. BUT I LOVE the relief I GET when I sneeze.
wearing socks to bed: grooooossss. you've walked around all day in the house in those things, they collect dirt and hold in sweat. the texture is gross as well.
loud televisions: nothing worse than sitting in someone's house with their tv on so loud that it gives you a headache. especially if it is on the cartoon network channel.
people that say 'like' or 'um' every other word: AHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!
people that 'suck' on their teeth to get old food residue out: give me a pitch fork and I'll scrape it out FOR YA!
people who leave whiteheads on their face and don't pop them: I'm sorry but I love a good pop of the pimple, it feels like relief it's visually stimulating to see the expression of puss come out and a scab looks better than a snow peaked mount Everest on your chin so POP that son of a gun.
OBSESSIONS:
cookie dough: I've become obsessed ever since having Henry. I don't even like the cookie form anymore, I solely eat the dough around the clock all day long.
drinking from straws: it just feels right
reality tv: I can't pull myself away. Real housewives depicts how I would like to live my life materialistically NOT personally, no drama.
photography: take me to a place I've never been.
blackberry: take it from me and your fingers will be chopped. Im also glad Kev now has a work blackberry because he is now obsessed with me as well.
cleaning baby bottles: it's what every little girl pretended to do growing up. you play house, and pretend you have a baby and wash bottles and feed them a bottle etc etc...no? that was just me? ohh...
changing Henry's diapers: again....might be just me. lol.
mowing the grass: it is pure joy to cut the grass- riding lawn mower only of course and I am determined to purchase a riding lawn mower and cut the grass weekly once we own our own home and have a big glorious yard :D
picking my nose: I'll own up to it, in the privacy of my own home it's nice to find relief in getting that crud out, and NO you cannot get it ALL out with a tissue and YES I thoroughly wash my hands after wards.
riding a bike: it's like flying but better.
watching Henry sleep: no better joy in the world then seeing him in the most peaceful state, dreaming and on occasion smiling during a dream. staring down at a miracle.
Im sure there are a thousand more I could think of but for now my child is crying for a bottle so I must wrap it up <3
ENJOY!
LC
March 10, 2011
1 month postpartum
Today is a very happy day for me. A day were I woke up excited to go get my lil boo out of his crib. A day where I smiled as I gave my wonderful husband a kiss goodbye. A day where my coffee was made perfectly, and the slice of cold left over pizza tasted awesome! A morning spent cuddled up on the couch with the computer, morning news and rain on the windowsill and youtube jamming in the background of my favorite music.
Today is so great because last night was awesome. Henry's last feeding is around 11-12am and I usually stay up to feed him and then have to spend another 2 hours trying to get him to go to sleep. Well last night we tried something new- when his 8-9pm feeding came around we put him straight to bed and went to bed with him. I set my alarm for 12 thinking he would probably wake before then and we he did not I was in heaven! I still had to get up and pump and by the time I was done he was awake and ready to eat. But because he was so rested and sleepy he went right back to sleep after his bottle meaning I got 6 hours of glorified sleep last night with only one lil interruption! This is a new mothers DREAM! This only happens 2 maybe 3 times a week and the rest of the nights are spent calming him down and rocking him to sleep for hours. He loves to sleep on our chests so when we put him in his crib he instantly wakes right back up and starts the game alllll over again.
I am also excited today because I am so so so grateful to have my pre-pregnancy body back. I loved being pregnant and rubbing my stomach but 9months of it was plenty. I looooove slipping on my skinny jeans and lil tank tops. I LOVE my breast feeding boobies as well. I feel like I had a baby and I got a boob job/lipo all in one! I weigh LESS than I did before I got pregnant, I'm wearing a size 4 and can fit in a size 2. My boobs are in their own zip code and hellllo no one's complaining in this city :D All of this is due to breast feeding and burning all those extra calories each day. I absolutely love it. I still eat all the shit I did when I was pregnant, Kev and I have actually gotten into the habit of making cookie dough and just eating that each night as dessert. Gross I know but I am so hungry all the time and that is my vice right now.
Another reason why I am so so so happy today is that the job hunt is going so smoothly. I am being sought after for 2 really great jobs and it is going to be hard to pick. I am so excited because I graduated over a year ago and I finally am going to be able to have a full time job that is not just a job but a career in my field of interest in a salary position! Might I add that this is all happening in AKRON OHIO?!? Yeah, I didn't think it was possible either!
Life is really shaping up nicely for us and after the year we had in 2010- as great as it was, it was also one of the hardest for my family, so we are extremely grateful for the break. Kev is busy at work, I am busy at home and soon to be working again too, we have a beautiful healthy jubilant son and a crazy lazy dog. We have our health, our happiness and our own family now, life gets sweeter every day. Ever since our son was born and blessed us with his presence our fortune has turn completely around. I wish every one could be as blessed!
Enjoy the rainy day and cuddle up to someone you love - that is the best way to stay warm!
<3>
March 01, 2011
Normalcy!
YES! It has finally happened! The day has come where I do not feel like a zombie, where I have taken a full shower, put REAL clothes on, and finished some chores around the house. It is so nice and I've been wanting this and waiting for this day since I went into labor!!
My days are 20 hours long these days. I sleep for 4 hours a day maybe 6 if I am lucky and my body has finally adjusted. It took 3 weeks for it to succumb to its defeated state but it did. I have lost all of my pregnancy weight and actually feel skinnier than I did before I got pregnant which is an awesome bonus to breastfeeding. I have crazy cravings for chocolate- chocolate chip cookies/dough to be exact and I drink water/hot tea like its my job! I eat like shit but thats mostly due to the fact that I dont sleep so my body craves carbs and sugar to keep it functioning. I do eat tons of fruit and am currently on an orange binge. Mmmm have to have at least 2 a day. I could spend our entire grocery budget on fruit and carbs and be one happy girl :D
I cannot wait until Kevin and I can get back to our relationship. It currently is on a stand still. The second I went into labor Kev's job went into overdrive. He has been going into work early and coming home late, then working on reports until bedtime and on and on. He works the entire weekend and neither one of us have had a day off since Henry's birth. I haven't a day off from being constantly at Henry's side for 3 weeks and Kev hasn't had a day off from work in 3 weeks. Its so sad seeing our relationship take a hit like this but that has to be expected.
I just look forward to the day where I can get dressed up, wear heels for the first time in a year and skinny jeans and a sexy top and feel like a girl again!
Henry is doing great- gaining weight and eating like a champ. I think he just went through a growth spurt, he has been eating every 2 hours on the hour for 5 days and just plumped up. He loves his milk and his sleep thats for sure! He doesnt really fuss unless he is cold, has a dirty diaper or he is hungry. It's taken me a while to understand and figure out his 'cries'. Which one means I'm in pain, I'm hungry, I'm cold, I'm dirty... but now Im a pro!
For the rest of the day I shall spend it tidying up the house, vegging out on more cookies :D and cuddling with my adorable lil man!
Much Love
LC
February 17, 2011
Life as a Mom
Life as a mom has been a rollercoaster. It is so exciting and comes so naturally to me, and then there are times when I feel like I know absolutely nothing.
The worst part has been the sleep deprivation and the breast feeding. My lil one does NOT like his momma's boobs. But why would he? ha. He was not down with the breast feeding since the very beginning and regardless of my week and a half long attempts to get him on the boob- he prevailed. So now I pump. Every 2 hours, all day long. I give myself a break for 4 hours during the night. Not even exaggerating do you know what it is like to be up every 2 hours to pump your boobs for 20mins?! Intense. Now THAT's love.
I've started to only pump the exact amount that he feeds which bothers me because I can never get enough out to have extra for storage. Im trying not to think about it and drink boat loads of water but its still the same. Im going to try this herbal tea next that is called Mothers Milk and is supposed to help with the supply.
My lil Henry bean is beyond preciousness and is growing more and more each day. He is eating 2.5 oz every 2 hours and sleeps through the night (most every night). He pee's and poo's so much we can hardly keep a clean diaper on him.
Yesterday his belly button stump fell off and I had a momma moment- I was so proud! And happy that I didnt have to maneuver around that nasty thing every time we changed his diaper or gave him a bath. He has fat rolls now and his face has filled out. He no longer looks like Kevin but more like me :D
As for moi I have lost 24lbs and only have 9lbs more to go until pre-pregnancy but if I could lose more than that I'd be ecstatic. I go to bed and wake up covered in sweat like I have just ran a marathon. It is absolutely gross but I try to think that it is all my extra fluids falling off :D My blood pressure is back to normal, I think it is still a bit high but I am re-assured it is fine.
I really am enjoying every minute that I have with Henry and have been blessed with so much help and love from our families. Im so excited to have my life back to normal and be able to drink a sip of alcohol when I want and bend over and pick things up off the floor bc I dont have a huge buddah belly! I do miss the belly and rubbing it and feeling him move inside my tummy but I prefer seeing him move and holding him on the outside more :) He is my world and I love being a momma. There is no other job I'd rather have, this is what I was born to do and Im so so so happy that I've finally been able to do it!
Much love and happiness to all- and go give your momma a kiss! She does a lot for you <3
LC
The worst part has been the sleep deprivation and the breast feeding. My lil one does NOT like his momma's boobs. But why would he? ha. He was not down with the breast feeding since the very beginning and regardless of my week and a half long attempts to get him on the boob- he prevailed. So now I pump. Every 2 hours, all day long. I give myself a break for 4 hours during the night. Not even exaggerating do you know what it is like to be up every 2 hours to pump your boobs for 20mins?! Intense. Now THAT's love.
I've started to only pump the exact amount that he feeds which bothers me because I can never get enough out to have extra for storage. Im trying not to think about it and drink boat loads of water but its still the same. Im going to try this herbal tea next that is called Mothers Milk and is supposed to help with the supply.
My lil Henry bean is beyond preciousness and is growing more and more each day. He is eating 2.5 oz every 2 hours and sleeps through the night (most every night). He pee's and poo's so much we can hardly keep a clean diaper on him.
Yesterday his belly button stump fell off and I had a momma moment- I was so proud! And happy that I didnt have to maneuver around that nasty thing every time we changed his diaper or gave him a bath. He has fat rolls now and his face has filled out. He no longer looks like Kevin but more like me :D
As for moi I have lost 24lbs and only have 9lbs more to go until pre-pregnancy but if I could lose more than that I'd be ecstatic. I go to bed and wake up covered in sweat like I have just ran a marathon. It is absolutely gross but I try to think that it is all my extra fluids falling off :D My blood pressure is back to normal, I think it is still a bit high but I am re-assured it is fine.
I really am enjoying every minute that I have with Henry and have been blessed with so much help and love from our families. Im so excited to have my life back to normal and be able to drink a sip of alcohol when I want and bend over and pick things up off the floor bc I dont have a huge buddah belly! I do miss the belly and rubbing it and feeling him move inside my tummy but I prefer seeing him move and holding him on the outside more :) He is my world and I love being a momma. There is no other job I'd rather have, this is what I was born to do and Im so so so happy that I've finally been able to do it!
Much love and happiness to all- and go give your momma a kiss! She does a lot for you <3
LC
February 13, 2011
Henry Enzo Clouse
I finally had my baby boy! Tuesday Feb. 8th 2011 weighing in at 7lbs 1oz and 20.5 inches long he is perfection. I know I am his mother so I am completely bias but he is GORGEOUS! Seriously the cutest newborn I've ever seen, he didnt come out with a cone head, or baby acne or bruises from birth- just perfection. He has the roundest lil head and the sweetest disposition. He is JUST like his pappa. Calm, gentle, and doesnt need anything more in life than a good nap and food :D
Labor was the worst, I probably have had the worst labor than any of my friends. I went into the hospital on monday morning due to signs of early labor. When I arrived I was still only 1cm and 70% effaced, no change from my dr's appt that previous friday. Which stunk since I was having (what I thought were painful) contractions for 2 days straight. They found out through blood tests that I was suffering from preeclampsia a condition that causes you to have insane levels of high blood pressure. This is a concern during labor because my blood pressure was so high I was at risk of suffering from a seizure. They had to give me a drug that helps slow down labor called Magnesium. It slows down all the functioning in your body and makes you feel like death- this caused me to have a migraine! Then they had to induce me so I wouldn't stay preggo forever called pitocin. The two drugs were fighting against each other but needless to say I powered through it and birthed Henry vaginally after 24hours of labor and only 10 pushes!
Since we have been home we have been exhausteeeed. I literally am up around the clock every day, so everyday feels like 2 days. We dont get more than 3 hours of straight sleep before we are up feeding Henry or changing a diaper or calming him down from a fuss. Henry was and still kind of is a lazy eater- he didn't want to breastfeed bc he didnt want to have to work for the milk. Ha! He wants it to just be poured into his mouth. Funny but annoying.
The last week has been exhausting, labor was ridiculous, and we have been more than frustrated with not being able to sleep like we use to. We have been shocked into parenthood and shaken to our core, but Henry has been the biggest biggest blessing. He is so wonderful, he fills our hearts with so much joy and we are so proud that we were able to produce such a miracle. Kevin is goo goo over his little baby and they often are caught cuddling on the couch together.
Henry is a spitting image of his father and it breaks my ever loving heart! They are just two pea's in a pod. Kevin has blown my mind with his amazing fathering skills and his patience with Henry.
This is a long rambly post but I wanted to get one in during one of Henry's naps between feedings and now I need to catch some Zzz's while I can! I will post more as I get on a better schedule and when I get more sleep.
Much much love and happiness
LC <3>
February 07, 2011
Labor
Sorry to have not written a post for a few days I am currently in the process of labor. Even though I have yet to go to the hospital I have been laboring at home for the last 24hours. Infrequent, time able contractions lasting 1-7 minutes long. There have been many scares and our bags are packed in the car. We are ready to go whenever this little baby is! Please see my facebook and Kev's facebook for more updates on Henry's arrival!
Hope all have a happy week!
LC <3
Hope all have a happy week!
LC <3
February 05, 2011
Our Last Saturday as A Family of 2
Today was the last time that we would be able to sleep in as a family of 2...well 3 including Zozo. It was our last saturday sleeping in, our last saturday without company, or responsibilities. It definitely didn't hit us until the afternoon/evening.
We spent the day spring cleaning the house aka nesting. We started off the morning with a casual breakfast then we got into the nitty gritty.
We deep cleaned the whole house in anticipation of my mother's arrival and of course Henry's. It's funny because I wasn't expecting Kev to get so hands on with the cleaning as he did and I was very happy about it! He cleaned the bathroom like a pro - better than any guy I've ever seen and the kitchen. I moved every piece of furniture and vacuumed like crazy. Vacuuming by the way is my VICE! We own a Dyson and it is orgasmic! I friggin love that thing. I'm totally the kind of girl who gets turned on by top of the line home items. Dyson vacuums, All-Clad pots and pans, commercial grade blenders... you get the idea :)
ANYwho... we tagged teamed the cleaning and vacuumed out our couch of all crumbs, dog hair, dirt etc. We inherited our couches from my parents and during the summer my mother had a binge on sunflower seeds. She had a certain spot she ALWAYS sat and while we were cleaning we got to her spot...we sucked up a lot of sunflower seeds....thanks mom! LOL It was one of those perfect married couple saturdays spent together doing something productive. While we cleaned we watched it snow and snow and snow outside and it was just mmm mmm cozy!
I made us yummy sandwiches for lunch and cleaned more and more. We headed out later on in the afternoon to change my oil and clean out my car of dog hair. That was a bad idea. Zoey is deathly afraid of vacuums and this vacuum was outside. So as Pappa Clouse vacuumed the civic out Zoey and I stood in the snow blizzard freezing our nipples off. The things we do to save a buck or two is sometimes ridic. Im pretty sure Kev was glad we went to get my oil changed rather than go to his office parking lot and him change it himself.
I talked to my momma on the phone today and she was happy and excited and cheerful as she packed away for 2 full weeks with the House of Clouse! She is so ready to be here and be 'grandma g' to Kev, myself, zozo and Henry! She lives to spoil others and no one is more appreciative of this than us! Kev is super excited about her stay because she plans on making Kev 3 meals a day every day for 2 weeks straight. Something his tiny body needs! Im excited to have someone to hang out with while I wait for baby. She is gonna force me to walk walk walk until I go into labor which Im looking forward too! My dad will be here next friday-monday the weekend that I will be induced if he doesn't come naturally. My father is SO excited that he will get to see Henry's arrival and hold the lil nugget before he has to jet back to KS.
Kev and I wrapped up the night by making/eating more beef stew and relaxing on the couch. My body HURTS terribly after over doing it with the cleaning spree today. I will sleep amazing tonight (hopefully). I am going to work on my cover letter tonight and hopefully send off some applications for after maternity leave.
Excited for tomorrows adventures to pick up 'grandma g' and watch the super bowl! Im sure I will have tons to talk about tomorrow night! For now...I am going to collapse into a deep sleep coma!
Ciao for now
LC <3
We spent the day spring cleaning the house aka nesting. We started off the morning with a casual breakfast then we got into the nitty gritty.
We deep cleaned the whole house in anticipation of my mother's arrival and of course Henry's. It's funny because I wasn't expecting Kev to get so hands on with the cleaning as he did and I was very happy about it! He cleaned the bathroom like a pro - better than any guy I've ever seen and the kitchen. I moved every piece of furniture and vacuumed like crazy. Vacuuming by the way is my VICE! We own a Dyson and it is orgasmic! I friggin love that thing. I'm totally the kind of girl who gets turned on by top of the line home items. Dyson vacuums, All-Clad pots and pans, commercial grade blenders... you get the idea :)
ANYwho... we tagged teamed the cleaning and vacuumed out our couch of all crumbs, dog hair, dirt etc. We inherited our couches from my parents and during the summer my mother had a binge on sunflower seeds. She had a certain spot she ALWAYS sat and while we were cleaning we got to her spot...we sucked up a lot of sunflower seeds....thanks mom! LOL It was one of those perfect married couple saturdays spent together doing something productive. While we cleaned we watched it snow and snow and snow outside and it was just mmm mmm cozy!
I made us yummy sandwiches for lunch and cleaned more and more. We headed out later on in the afternoon to change my oil and clean out my car of dog hair. That was a bad idea. Zoey is deathly afraid of vacuums and this vacuum was outside. So as Pappa Clouse vacuumed the civic out Zoey and I stood in the snow blizzard freezing our nipples off. The things we do to save a buck or two is sometimes ridic. Im pretty sure Kev was glad we went to get my oil changed rather than go to his office parking lot and him change it himself.
I talked to my momma on the phone today and she was happy and excited and cheerful as she packed away for 2 full weeks with the House of Clouse! She is so ready to be here and be 'grandma g' to Kev, myself, zozo and Henry! She lives to spoil others and no one is more appreciative of this than us! Kev is super excited about her stay because she plans on making Kev 3 meals a day every day for 2 weeks straight. Something his tiny body needs! Im excited to have someone to hang out with while I wait for baby. She is gonna force me to walk walk walk until I go into labor which Im looking forward too! My dad will be here next friday-monday the weekend that I will be induced if he doesn't come naturally. My father is SO excited that he will get to see Henry's arrival and hold the lil nugget before he has to jet back to KS.
Kev and I wrapped up the night by making/eating more beef stew and relaxing on the couch. My body HURTS terribly after over doing it with the cleaning spree today. I will sleep amazing tonight (hopefully). I am going to work on my cover letter tonight and hopefully send off some applications for after maternity leave.
Excited for tomorrows adventures to pick up 'grandma g' and watch the super bowl! Im sure I will have tons to talk about tomorrow night! For now...I am going to collapse into a deep sleep coma!
Ciao for now
LC <3
February 04, 2011
Anticipation
I just got back from the baby doctor! Im writing this blog earlier than usual because I will be at work tonight until 10 and will want to come straight home and snooze.
Sooo here's a recap on my day: Another morning/afternoon spent thinking I was going into labor due to excessive back-aches, extreme contractions etc etc. Ive pretty much just been waiting around watching the clock counting contractions and waiting for a gush of fluid to indicate my water has broken lol.
Today I woke up and felt 'flu-ish' which I hear is a good sign that labor is around the corner, and since Im 39 weeks and 2 days preggo its pretty fair for me to feel that way :D
I got phone calls from all over the country checking in to see if I had popped yet (if you haven't seen recent pics of my belly this is a literal and figurative term! IM
HUGE!) But I had to rush off the phone multiple times to get ready for the dr. I went to drop off Kev's check at Giant Eagle...yes the ONLY place our bank is located is INSIDE Giant Eagle's here...and since my father is the president of Dillons (a sector of Kroger) and I grew up on Kroger, shopping at Giant Eagle sucks sucks sucks. I somehow made it through the crowds of superbowl party planners and the crazy beyond crazy traffic to my dr's office.
I really dont mind going to the dr's office, but when you are pregnant and you have to go one a month, then once every 3 weeks then once every 2 weeks then once every week and you get the same ol same ol 'yeah your the same...no progress' or 'yeah...most first time mothers go late by a week or so' you get kinda sick of it. I have a really awesome dr. but poor thing repeats herself like a broken record and often forgets what she has told me the week prior. I always end up sweating like a pig in her office too-which i dont quite mind bc its better then freezing to death like other office's I've been to.
Well, for those who haven't been following my progress on Facebook- I haven't made any HUGE strides of progress since 36 weeks. I have been 50% effaced and zero dilation for 2 weeks and now for 2 weeks Ive been 60% effaced and 1cm dilated. This is somewhat disappointing bc it means my body is doing something, but that it isn't in any rush. Now, if I was Henry I wouldn't be in any rush either, but the doctor has told me that if I make it to my next week appointment (friday the 11th) he will be well over 8lbs. MAMMA IS IN A RUSH!!!!!!!! I need this kid outta me before he hits the damn 9lb'er mark. For reals, thanks for all the advice and sweet words ladies but lets see you push out a 9lb'er smiling and saying 'so glad i waited for him to come out naturally!'.
Im not a fan of being induced, Im not a fan of C-sections and I would continue to wait for him to come on his own but my father like I said runs a very big and very busy company and can only fly in from the 11th-14th. So I asked my doctor for the millionth time today if she would induce me next weekend and NOT make me wait until well after the 16th when he would be almost 2 weeks late and after checking my pelvis/cervix she said she felt comfortable inducing me next friday bc my cervix is in good shape to handle it. YAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! My precious 8lb baby boy will be in my arms next weekend if not sooner. It still hasn't hit me yet, but Im working on it :D
So, if I have to be induced that sucks, and if I end up getting a C-section that sucks but that is life and Im sure I will handle it all just fine.
I will keep you all updated. Im no off to find something to eat before work and rest up before work as well. SO excited tomorrow is saturday!
TGIF people!!!!
LC <3
Sooo here's a recap on my day: Another morning/afternoon spent thinking I was going into labor due to excessive back-aches, extreme contractions etc etc. Ive pretty much just been waiting around watching the clock counting contractions and waiting for a gush of fluid to indicate my water has broken lol.
Today I woke up and felt 'flu-ish' which I hear is a good sign that labor is around the corner, and since Im 39 weeks and 2 days preggo its pretty fair for me to feel that way :D
I got phone calls from all over the country checking in to see if I had popped yet (if you haven't seen recent pics of my belly this is a literal and figurative term! IM
HUGE!) But I had to rush off the phone multiple times to get ready for the dr. I went to drop off Kev's check at Giant Eagle...yes the ONLY place our bank is located is INSIDE Giant Eagle's here...and since my father is the president of Dillons (a sector of Kroger) and I grew up on Kroger, shopping at Giant Eagle sucks sucks sucks. I somehow made it through the crowds of superbowl party planners and the crazy beyond crazy traffic to my dr's office.
I really dont mind going to the dr's office, but when you are pregnant and you have to go one a month, then once every 3 weeks then once every 2 weeks then once every week and you get the same ol same ol 'yeah your the same...no progress' or 'yeah...most first time mothers go late by a week or so' you get kinda sick of it. I have a really awesome dr. but poor thing repeats herself like a broken record and often forgets what she has told me the week prior. I always end up sweating like a pig in her office too-which i dont quite mind bc its better then freezing to death like other office's I've been to.
Well, for those who haven't been following my progress on Facebook- I haven't made any HUGE strides of progress since 36 weeks. I have been 50% effaced and zero dilation for 2 weeks and now for 2 weeks Ive been 60% effaced and 1cm dilated. This is somewhat disappointing bc it means my body is doing something, but that it isn't in any rush. Now, if I was Henry I wouldn't be in any rush either, but the doctor has told me that if I make it to my next week appointment (friday the 11th) he will be well over 8lbs. MAMMA IS IN A RUSH!!!!!!!! I need this kid outta me before he hits the damn 9lb'er mark. For reals, thanks for all the advice and sweet words ladies but lets see you push out a 9lb'er smiling and saying 'so glad i waited for him to come out naturally!'.
Im not a fan of being induced, Im not a fan of C-sections and I would continue to wait for him to come on his own but my father like I said runs a very big and very busy company and can only fly in from the 11th-14th. So I asked my doctor for the millionth time today if she would induce me next weekend and NOT make me wait until well after the 16th when he would be almost 2 weeks late and after checking my pelvis/cervix she said she felt comfortable inducing me next friday bc my cervix is in good shape to handle it. YAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! My precious 8lb baby boy will be in my arms next weekend if not sooner. It still hasn't hit me yet, but Im working on it :D
So, if I have to be induced that sucks, and if I end up getting a C-section that sucks but that is life and Im sure I will handle it all just fine.
I will keep you all updated. Im no off to find something to eat before work and rest up before work as well. SO excited tomorrow is saturday!
TGIF people!!!!
LC <3
February 03, 2011
Resume Mes-mu-may
You guessed it...another day of absolute nail biting boredom. I tried to get good book ideas from my mother so I could head down to the library and act scholastic, but she is going to bring me 7 books from her collection when she comes this sunday. This will be very helpful- can you picture it now a new mom juggling diaper changes and breast feeding all the while reading a novel? LOL. Hopefully in our down time (she is staying for 2 weeks) when we have run out of energy to chatter we can take a lazy day to read in each others company.
I made some good progress on the job hunt today. As some of you many know from my first blog post of '11 I mentioned I was a free-lance nanny. What a hilarious made-up title huh? There is no other title for it though so I roll with it. Anyways I had a pretty awesome gig lined up for after Henry was born that fell through due to inconvenience to the parents of the child I was to watch. Driving out to our house was going to be too much of a hassle for them which is understandable, but a bummer none the less. So finding out this lovely bit of info 9 days before my due date I got frantic and started job searching everywhere.
I never looked for anything full time or very serious before because when we first moved here in June I spent 4 out of the 7 day work week finishing up planning our wedding. That was my full time job. Then after the wedding I was so far along in my pregnancy that no one wanted to hire me. And basically we live in the middle of no where arm pit of Ohio- not much opportunity for a fashion styling career. I knew this when we moved here. I knew this when I met Kevin, I was going to follow him and where ever he got a job because he could make A LOT more money right out of college than I could. Being a fashion stylist takes years and years and lots of little jobs here and there for little pay etc etc.
So now I need a real job- but since we live in the middle of no where butt hole of the earth Ohio we dont have/know of anyone to watch Henry. Boo. Now we have to think of daycare- which we were trying to avoid, hence me being a nanny. Now that all nanny opportunities are gone I need to find a really really good job so Im actually making a profit and not just giving all my money to daycare. Parenthood + Adulthood equals feeling like you live in the HOOD! It def stinks monkey butt.
Welp today I found my dream job. I wont go into it to much because I dont want to jinx it or set myself up for disappointment. But I need to fluff my resume up a ton. The last time I used it was over a year ago. Every job I've gotten since 2008-2009 has been from work of mouth and recommendations. Looking at Kev's resume was enough to make this girl cry. His is jam packed with extracurricular and leadership roles and volunteer work blablabla pretty much he is good at everything he does and it eats me alive :D We spent the evening trying to salvage my resume which is very comical because Kev gave up eventually lol. But we got off to a good start and I plan on finishing it up tomorrow and emailing off my life to the HR department of this fabulous company <3
REALLY good part of my day was when my lovely beyond lovely husband came home and made home-made chili and we had family dinner time. Something I valued SO SO much growing up. Dinners around the table, no tv, no internet, no phones. Bliss. We agreed we are to continue this tradition every night until Henry is 38 ha ha.
Tomorrow equals exciting exciting day for momma clouse as I toodle on over to my baby dr to see if I've had any progress in the last week with my dilation and effacement. Hopefully she will give me a glimmer of hope that Henry will be here by next wendsday! Then I have to run some errands for Kev and then off to work for the entire evening! YAY! I will be SO exhausted saturday which is perfect timing since Ive commissioned Kev to deep clean the house for me before my momma comes on sunday :D Which I'm SUPER excited about because she is going to make HOME MADE chicken wings, potato skins and nachos! whooo hooo! Nothing better than your momma's cooking!
Gotta run to bed, even though I am not tired AT ALL (total insomnia has kicked in yet again) plus this was a lengthy post tonight! Will update tomorrow with baby's progress!
much love and happiness
LC <3
I made some good progress on the job hunt today. As some of you many know from my first blog post of '11 I mentioned I was a free-lance nanny. What a hilarious made-up title huh? There is no other title for it though so I roll with it. Anyways I had a pretty awesome gig lined up for after Henry was born that fell through due to inconvenience to the parents of the child I was to watch. Driving out to our house was going to be too much of a hassle for them which is understandable, but a bummer none the less. So finding out this lovely bit of info 9 days before my due date I got frantic and started job searching everywhere.
I never looked for anything full time or very serious before because when we first moved here in June I spent 4 out of the 7 day work week finishing up planning our wedding. That was my full time job. Then after the wedding I was so far along in my pregnancy that no one wanted to hire me. And basically we live in the middle of no where arm pit of Ohio- not much opportunity for a fashion styling career. I knew this when we moved here. I knew this when I met Kevin, I was going to follow him and where ever he got a job because he could make A LOT more money right out of college than I could. Being a fashion stylist takes years and years and lots of little jobs here and there for little pay etc etc.
So now I need a real job- but since we live in the middle of no where butt hole of the earth Ohio we dont have/know of anyone to watch Henry. Boo. Now we have to think of daycare- which we were trying to avoid, hence me being a nanny. Now that all nanny opportunities are gone I need to find a really really good job so Im actually making a profit and not just giving all my money to daycare. Parenthood + Adulthood equals feeling like you live in the HOOD! It def stinks monkey butt.
Welp today I found my dream job. I wont go into it to much because I dont want to jinx it or set myself up for disappointment. But I need to fluff my resume up a ton. The last time I used it was over a year ago. Every job I've gotten since 2008-2009 has been from work of mouth and recommendations. Looking at Kev's resume was enough to make this girl cry. His is jam packed with extracurricular and leadership roles and volunteer work blablabla pretty much he is good at everything he does and it eats me alive :D We spent the evening trying to salvage my resume which is very comical because Kev gave up eventually lol. But we got off to a good start and I plan on finishing it up tomorrow and emailing off my life to the HR department of this fabulous company <3
REALLY good part of my day was when my lovely beyond lovely husband came home and made home-made chili and we had family dinner time. Something I valued SO SO much growing up. Dinners around the table, no tv, no internet, no phones. Bliss. We agreed we are to continue this tradition every night until Henry is 38 ha ha.
Tomorrow equals exciting exciting day for momma clouse as I toodle on over to my baby dr to see if I've had any progress in the last week with my dilation and effacement. Hopefully she will give me a glimmer of hope that Henry will be here by next wendsday! Then I have to run some errands for Kev and then off to work for the entire evening! YAY! I will be SO exhausted saturday which is perfect timing since Ive commissioned Kev to deep clean the house for me before my momma comes on sunday :D Which I'm SUPER excited about because she is going to make HOME MADE chicken wings, potato skins and nachos! whooo hooo! Nothing better than your momma's cooking!
Gotta run to bed, even though I am not tired AT ALL (total insomnia has kicked in yet again) plus this was a lengthy post tonight! Will update tomorrow with baby's progress!
much love and happiness
LC <3
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