Postpartum Day 91

10 Must-Haves for your Newborn


1) Halo Swaddle Sleepsack

Our baby girls LOVES this swaddle and we tried a few other types and this one wins the "got most sleep when used award."  She has been a pretty decent sleeper from the beginning and started sleeping through the night by the time she was two months old, and consistently by three months old, even moving from bassinet to her crib.  What's great about these swaddles is that once she is able to rollover, we can still use them as sleep sacks.  (Which may be soon unfortunately!)  They also have a muslin version which we use now since it's summer time and a bit warm.

2) Gas Drops

Most babies are pretty gassy in the first few weeks or months as their digestive systems are figuring stuff out, even breastfeed babies who typically have less of these issues.  This was no different for our little girl, we had a few difficult nights struggling with her discomfort.  These drops were a miracle, they helped her sleep a few extra hours.  We used these several times a day until she was about a month old.

3) Solly Wrap

I didn't go into having a child thinking I'd be an attachment parent, I still don't think I am, my baby isn't even sleeping in our room anymore.  But, I LOVED this wrap!!  And baby V does too, still.  As a newborn, she would sleep in this wrap and I could move around and get some thing done as needed.  This is a product made in the USA and it's very good quality.  You can use it until your baby reaches 25 lbs, it's easy to pack in a diaper bag, helps with bonding, and reduces baby crying.  Totally true, baby V NEVER cries in her Solly.

4) Tummy Time Gym

Our baby HATED tummy time and still only tolerates it because of this gym.  We started tummy time the day we got home from the hospital and tried to do it several times a day once we got the go-ahead from our pediatrician.  We were met by EXTREME dislike of tummy time which was frustrating because everyone wants their children to be able to develop the way they need to.  My Mom bought us this gym after I talked to her about it, and initially my reaction was, "another gym?" But my baby LOVES it, she tolerated tummy time so much more and now that she can hold her head up, she really enjoy the prop pillow and looking in the mirror.  A great idea if your baby does not enjoy tummy time.



5) Pampers Baby Dry Diapers

Diapers?? Well of course, you may say, but wait.  Initially we were only using the Pampers Swaddlers for our baby girl, which worked great.  These were a wonderful addition and still are, to our bedtime routine.  Our baby girl is pretty sensitive to a wet diaper and these keep her comfortable for hours during the night.  She does not fuss for want of a clean diaper, again, it helped keep her happy and asleep as long as possible during the night.  Definitely invest in these as soon as you can, you can even size up on these for night-time for a little extra absorption.

6) Balmax

Balmax again? Yes I'm apparently obsessed and I'm not sure why you never read about this on the Mommy blogs, but my baby has NEVER had diaper rash. Ever. As soon as she gets a little red down there, we wipe this one, and presto, it's gone.  Can't argue with family, my parents used this, and it still works amazing.

7) Breast Pump + Accessories

Another duh factor, but let me explain.  Having a good pump can really set you up for breastfeeding success.  I have been very fortunate in my breastfeeding journey, despite overproduction which caused some issues for me and my baby.  However, because I had a great pump (including a manual pump which I also recommend), I was able to start a really great milk stash for the freezer.  This helps for when the husband is watching her, when I'd like to have a cocktail or more than a glass of wine, and on growth spurt days when my girl is extra hungry.  I also suggest these accessories:

Milkies Freeze Kit - perfect for freezer storage
Milkies Milk-Saver Breast Milk Collector - catches the extra when you're feeding
Infantino Freezer Sleeve - good extra storage
Extra Pump Parts - just in case!
UpSpring Milkscreen Testers - because sometimes it's fun to have some wine and this gives you peace of mind
Pump 2 Nurse "Purse" for Breast Pump Parts - perfect for storage and travelling with your pump
Car Adapter for Pump - 

8) Baby Connect App

This is by far the BEST app I use for my baby.  It allows you to track feedings (nursing and bottles), sleeping, diapers, activities, milestones, medical data, and communicate between all caregivers.  Both my husband and I use it and it's very helpful to know when baby's last diaper was or how long she's napped.  It's helped us see patterns in her sleep and have good answers to the pediatrician when she asks us about her schedule.  Our nanny also uses it as well.  When you're sleep deprived and can't remember which boob you nursed or the last time your baby had a wet diaper (doubtful but possible) this is the best app for the job.  You can also keep a journal and add pictures and messages too.

9) Baby Sparks App

This is my second favorite app.  This app gives a lot of detail about your baby's developmental framework by month.  I say framework because every baby meets milestones at their own pace.  That being said, this app gives you a "schedule" or list of activities and cognitive playtime choice to help engage your baby each day.  It can be hard when you have a newborn knowing how to give them fun and meaningful playtime.  This app gives you so many ideas of how to entertain and stimulate them based on these milestones

10) Uppababy Vista Bassinet/Stroller

So this is a more pricey item and not within everyone's budget, I'm lucky I have some very generous family members, but this stroller/bassinet system has been wonderful and if you can make this fit into your budget I highly recommend it.  This stroller system is amazing.  It comes with a bassinet and a stroller seat, and also works with the Mesa Car seat which we also have.  You can get adapter kits to work with other carseats as well.  This system also comes with bug and rain shields for the stroller and bassinet.  The stroller itself has a large basket which is helpful when it comes to grocery shopping or regular shopping, you don't need an extra cart.  The clip-in system is so easy it makes changing seats a breeze.  So many times when the baby was still sleeping in the bassinet in the morning my husband would un-click her from the bassinet stand right into the stroller and go walking with her and the dog.  Same deal with the carseat.  I will say the stroller is not super compact, but the wheels come off and I can then easily fit this into my smaller car.  Since the bassinet unclicks, we were able to carry it all over the house which helped our baby get used to sleeping on her back which she didn't take to immediately.  I really can't say enough good things about this system.  Since this is costly, if you think of it as an investment it helps.  The quality is amazing and this system adapts if you have a second or third child.

Postpartum Day 90

10 Things You Need in Your Hospital Bag

Don't forget these things and make sure your bags are packed by week 32, you never know when you will be running to the hospital!

1. Nursing Bra

This item is needed on the assumption that you are breastfeeding. Now, I subscribe to the "breast is best" mantra if you are medically able to breastfeed but I know not everyone is able/willing and I would be a bad feminist if I judged anyone for using formula. So. If you are choosing or considering breastfeeding bring a nursing bra, your boobs will be big and full and the support is good when you're getting going with breastfeeding. You don't want to be fumbling with bra straps. Get professionally measured around your eighth month and then again after your milk supply stabilizes.

2. Nursing Pads

See above. Now I brought fabric pads and disposable and I recommend, for those first days, to use fabric nursing pads. Your nipples will be sore and I found relief in the fabric pads. I also recommend bringing these for relief as well. If you have a Health Spending Account, use that to purchase these, any breastfeeding supplies are covered.

3. Fuzzy Socks

Hospitals get cold. Warm feet make everyone happier. Bring some fun, fuzzy socks with grippy bottoms so you don't slide around during contractions. Bring a pair for your husband too!

4. Camera

Don't forget it! And the charger!

5. Towel

I did not bring this and I regret it. The shower in the hospital stank and the towels were worse; they barely cover you and were knarly. After childbirth you are sore and fragile everywhere. And if you breastfeed your nipples will feed awful. You want a nice warm fuzzy familiar towel wrapped around you after that first... dun dun dun... shower of doom! Haha, it's not that bad but it's nice not to have your bum hanging out.

6. Dry Shampoo

I thought I'd feel like washing my hair. I did not. Especially in that shower. So, invest in a good dry shampoo, like this one. I loved the Living Proof dry shampoo, it smells great and my hair did feel cleaner.

7. Surprise for Spouse
This is optional but after all the steps taken to get to your baby, your husband/wife has probably gone above and beyond for you in many ways. Granted, you were growing a person inside you but it can be just as hard for your spouse. So, what's a better thank you than surprising them with a little token of your appreciation.  In my case, I got my husband a cool t-shirt. He LOVED it and wore it the whole time we were in the hospital.

8. Snacks

Mostly for your husband, but also to supplement hospital meals.  Nice to have something yummy after labor.

9. Nursing PJs

I also did not bring these and I regret it, the hospital gown got old after awhile and wasn't great for when I had visitors.  Find something comfortable, soft, and roomy.

10. Extra bag

We brought home a ton of diapers and other odds and ends that the hospital provided for us so make sure you have a way to carry them home!

Post-Partum: Day 40

Motherhood.  It's finally happened to me. I'm tired, frustrated, happy, and feeling very grown-up.
 Baby V is my world and puts me into a new generational timeline, I'm no longer the child, but the parent, my parents are the grandparents, and time presses on faster than I want. She's a month old already.  I thought it was time to open the blog up again as both a journal and presumptive guide for any new moms who are interested. Today I want to talk about my pregnancy and being post-partum and bequeath any knowledge I gained during this time.

10 Things That Got Me Through Pregnancy

1.  Nutella



This should be fairly self explanatory but personal to my pregnancy.  Indulge in your cravings but make sure you are walking every day to stay healthy and get ready for labor. My husband sings my praises about how I handled labor but I wish I'd been in better shape, especially during the pushing...

2. Belly Band

 

I didn't wear this all the time because it's a little warm for under pants but this helped me feel comfortable when wearing dresses and gave me extra belly support when I started getting bigger. I liked the BellyBandit Flawless Belly, but there are probably others that would be just as good.

3. Maternity Pants

Still wearing them.  Soo comfortable.  Get a bunch and enjoy.  Invest in a good pair of maternity jeans because you will wear these the most and you need a pair that can take a belly beating. 

4. Mother's Oil

Don't hate me too much, but I have zero stretch marks on my belly.  Zero.  I had an 8 lb baby and nadda.  I'm going to give 50% credit to my genes and the other 50% to this product, Mother's Special Oil. Used in tandem with drug store cocoa butter, twice a day, I definitely got nothing.  Also it smells amazing.  Use in combo with the Flawless belly and you are go to go!

5. Fitness Ball



This was so helpful in dealing with back pain, which you WILL get.  And it sucks.  I used this alone and instead of a chair sitting at my desk.  I still had back pain, lots of it, but this helped.  Any ball will do, make sure you get the right one for your height, this is the one I got.  I did not end up using it in labor, I honestly don't think it would have helped, but I did bounce on it a bit during early contractions.  Also good for postpartum exercises.

6. IKEA Elephant



I bought a pregnancy pillow. I didn't end up using it, for whatever reason it just didn't work for me.  I got really stiff.  So, I used this to snuggle with, to help with side sleeping, and it worked great.  To each their own though.  Plus the elephant is adorable and it was a gift from my husband when he went off to basic training.

7. Pregnancy Chalkboard



I was really unhappy with the peel and stick variety I bought for this purpose but ultimately making little drawings and tracking the belly progress was a joy and fun for both me and my husband.  Invest in a good one, it's fun.

8. Ovia Pregnancy App

 

I loved getting updates every day about what changes my baby was making as well as having a place to track milestones, find medication and food safety info, and information about doctor appointments.  Perfect for the type A expectant Mommy.

9. Belly Buds



Seems silly, but as a musician these were an essential in our house.  It was so fun having the baby react to different types of music, or in our case, different classical composers.  Also, baby's first kicks came at 17 weeks with Handel on my belly.  It was amazing.  Belly buds isn't an essential, but it was so much fun.

10. My Husband

My rock. My step stool. My chef. My housekeeper. My best friend. My lover. My coach. My support. My mirror. My comfort. My masseur. My chauffeur. My baby daddy. My partner. My life. I don't know how single women do it alone...

Post Graduation: Day 274

Another year come and gone.  Another year.  I must say, while I had many beautiful moments during 2014, it has definitely been a year of tremendous growth and some difficulties.  After an amazing 2013, I hope that 2015 will be a much more positive and positive year.  We have spent six months trying to grow our family, nearly succeeding, and now back to the drawing board again which has been very trying, especially for those who are lacking in patience.  This time has truly strengthened the bond with my husband and our marriage.  For that, I am grateful, I am blessed to have the most kind, understanding, patient, and supportive partner.  He has gotten me through this year.

I have not had a physical day planner in awhile, since iPhones can accommodate most of my calendar needs, but I thought this year I should revert back to this:

I have so much coming up in 2015, I love writing out daily to-do lists and making daily goals for myself to stay active and organized.  I have two major auditions coming up which will require a lot of preparation.  With so many possible changes coming, I need to stay focused.  For the first time in forever, I will be starting the New Year in the same place (geographically) as I will end it.  This is our home now, and I am so excited for what lies ahead!

Post Graduation: Day 229

Yes, I'm back. Hi there. It's been a really, really long time since I posted.  I'd like to say it's because I've been too busy, but in reality it's because I haven't been busy enough.  I know, it doesn't make sense, but in reality, I'm not going to post about long boring days doing house-wifey things.  But today, I came across this on my phone:

Wow.  A whole year has gone by since I sent my soldier off to become GI Joe.  Wow.  That kind of blew my mind.  Not just how fast a whole year had gone, but how slow it felt, and how much has happened.  Barely three months into marriage, a few weeks before Thanksgiving, my man was off, not knowing the next times I'd speak to him, with just the promise of letters.  I still can't believe it was real sometimes.

I'm going to recap how much has happened in the last year since he left:

• I left my job in Philadelphia.
• I left Pennsylvania and moved to DC.
• I was unemployed for four months.
• Enough family drama with my sibling to last a lifetime.
• My husband graduated from basic training.
• My husband started his new job.
• Auditions and master classes.
• A death in the family.
• We celebrated a year of marriage.
• My niece turned one.
• I got a new job.
• I got pregnant.
• I had a miscarriage.

All of that feels like enough for more than just a year.  Even a lifetime.  It's been a difficult year, I'm not going to lie.  There has been a lot of hard break and difficulty and negative things, but so many positive things, so many successes.  Even though it's not New Years yet, I feel compelled to begin contemplating the things I hope for this upcoming year, a year as an official Army Wife.

Now, before you leave with too much seriousness.  LOOK!  Vanilla extract in the making!!!

Post Graduation - Day 21

Howdy Internet.  Bet you thought I had completely abandoned you.  Well, I almost did, it's just been a little nutso around here.  My weekends have been reserved only for my husband these days, which pretty much stops the productivity in my life for that time and keeps me on my toes to catch up the rest of the week.  Such is the life of a commuter couple.

Most recently I did get a day off from work for Good Friday and we drove up to New York City to visit our music family.  There are only a few people for whom I'd visit and spend my day singing a nearly two-hour mass, haha.  It was a nice time, never long enough, but the drive up was pretty brutal.  Good 'ol New Jersey traffic.

Saturday was simply the best.  Errands followed by egg dying and visiting with my Mom, then baking and decorating Easter desserts for the rest of the day.  A little sample of the fruits of our labors!

Minion Egg!

Chocolate Covered Peeps

Sprinkles, sprinkles, and more sprinkles

Cake Pops

The cake pops were the biggest hit!  They taste kind of like petite fours, I might need to use this recipe for all family gatherings from now on.  I got the recipe from SkinnyTaste.com and it was delicious.  We had so much fun decorating these.  Great idea for an at home date too.

Post Graduation - Day 4

No words Internet... just a picture in summation... after a most wonderful series of days...

I'll be back soon with more, but an extra special thank you to all of those who helped us get through this challenge.

Week 13 - Day 1

Hello everyone!! I am so excited I can barely type this blog post!  This time Wednesday I will be eating lunch with my husband!  In less than 48 hours I will be on a plane bound for the army fort.  I feel proud that I've made it this long without my hubby, not that I doubted that I would, but I took this time for myself.  And I feel that I've thrived.  I loved writing and receiving letters too, I will treasure those for the rest of my life.

Now, let's see how I did with my goals....

1) Work out, 2.0

I wish I could spell out a tongue raspberry, haha!  Although, again, another health issue sort of put a damper on this goal.  As it is, I need to talk to my doc, I'm probably getting close to when I can exercise again.  I'm kind of thinking it would be a lot more fun for my husband to train me when he gets home... 

2) Lose 8 lbs

As of this morning, I am 6 lbs down from where I was, so I'm giving myself a pat on the back for this.  As long I keep up my routine, I should reach this goal in a week!!!  Time to go shopping for some cute summer clothes!

3) Audition for local community theater

CHECK!  And actually, it was a professional theater and even though I didn't get anything it was a great audition in my opinion.  My definition of a great audition is coming out feeling confident, which rarely happens.

4) Get re-certified for CPR

CHECK! Done!  I'm good for two more years...

5) Do something new every week
I am pretty confident I have done this, from outings, to diet stuff, recipes, my bulb project, I haven't kept track that well, but the goal of this was to keep life interesting.  Success.
6) Finish book about Grandmother

This is the second raspberry... I did not keep my promise on this.  I need to get on this.

Tonight is a free night for me and I think it will include a manicure, packing, and catching up on some TV!

Week 12 - Day 5

Happy Friday everyone!  This has been an amazing week, I have been so busy.  So busy that I haven't had time to set-up my new phone.  So busy that my DVR is completely full of shows from the week.  Now that's busy.

Yesterday I went to see the new production of Phantom of the Opera at the Academy of Music.  Those of you who know me, know that this is my favorite show, to the point of obsession.  I first saw the show in Philadelphia at the Forest Theater when I was eleven years old, and this viewing was my 7th (I think).  I was anxious to see what the new production would bring to the table promising new sets, costumes, choreography, and other surprises.

All in all it was fun to see something new and different, especially the remarkable sets they added to the production.  Ultimately, I prefer the original staging production.  I'd like to be in the show...

Day 3 of the Dukan Diet and I am done with the Attack Phase and on to Cruise.  I can eat veggies now, yayyy!!  Actually, after two days of just proteins, a salad feels like a welcome change.  Eating out last night was tricky but I made it work, diet coke with lemon, a burger, pickles, and some bacon, which is technically not allowed, but it was only a little.  I'm going out again tonight with some friends and I'm looking forward to some roasted veggies and a steak  Yummm!

As the days go by I get less and less cravings for no-no foods.  My appetite seems to have plateaued which is great, although the evening is still my time of greatest difficulty.  It's when I crave all of the bad things.

I'm going to see Divergent tonight, I've been looking forward to this movie for awhile so we will see!  I have another fun and full weekend ahead of me!  So grateful for my friends and family who have helped to keep my life so full and happy during these long months.  I'm a lucky girl.

Week 12 - Day 4

Interesting, I labeled my last blog post as "Boobs, Diets, and Family Day" and significantly more people decided to take a look.  I see how it is Internet, all I need is to talk about boobs to get your attention.  Well you can stop reading now, because the topic is closed... for now.

Day 2 of the Dukan Diet.  For those of you who don't know what this diet is, it is a modified version of Atkins, but stricter and eventually allows you the freedom to eat (mostly) whatever you want.  It starts off with the "Attack" phase which is (depending on your current weight and the weight you want to lose) 1-5 days of eating only protein, no-fat dairy, and a small amount of oat bran.  The good news is, from this list, you can eat as much protein as you like.  You then proceed to "Cruise" phase where you add vegetables, from a list and alternate protein and veggie days.  This time period gets you to your goal weight.  Finally, your reach "Consolidation" phase which you start introducing fruits, cheese, and starches in limited amounts.  You do this in order to reach stabilization where you are able to maintain your weight permanently.

I've never done this as far past Cruise phase, so I'm anxious to see if I can get there this time.  It's a lot easier to do this diet when I'm alone, so I probably should have started it earlier, but we will see.  I'm halfway through my last attack day so I'm excited to have a salad tomorrow!  This website has some great recipes to help you keep it interesting.  What's tricky about this diet, is it's really hard to eat out so you have to take the time to put the good foods in your house and take time to prepare your meals.

I've been getting up a lot earlier to prepare my meals and last night at 10:30pm I even put a meal in the crockpot.  Go me!   I'm already noticing a difference in my body and a pound worth of weight loss!

In other news the weather for graduation week is looking amazing, I'm looking forward to sundress and sandals... might need to get a pedicure before next week.  Can't wait to see my husband!

Week 12 - Day 3

I would like to thank the snow yesterday for tipping me over the edge to not going to my acting class.  I'd also like to thank my sore left side which after yesterday was sore enough to give me pause.  Grrr, I hate feeling like I'm not at 100%.  I'm not the kind of person who is good at taking things slowly and being patient.  I'm the girl who clips her hip on the side of the doorway when walking through because I was probably in a rush.  That's me.  This whole healing thing isn't working for me.  I still forget in the morning and try to do my normal cat stretch in bed and my left side screams in protest.  I need to give it time...

In other news, I did go to my post-op check up on Monday and the scar looks SO GREAT!  Gotta love plastics guys, they don't leave much evidence that they were there (no I didn't get a boob job).  In the interest of education, I had a benign lipoma removed from my left breast.  Public service announcement, do self breast exams, even if you find something benign it's good to know yourself.  I've had this for a few years and since it got bigger it was time to take it out.  My biggest concern was scarring and so far everything is looking good.  So that's that with the "boob job" jokes for now.

I also went to the doctor on Tuesday, different doctor, I am really starting to sound like a hypochondriac.  This doc is for my guts n glory.  Everything seems to be doing better except I have to get this test that almost no one does and I'm having trouble finding a place to do it.  Another life irritation.

I'm also starting the Dukan Diet today.  This has really worked for me in the past to shed some pesky pounds and since my guts have healed I've gained an extra 5 lbs that I really don't want to see.  The first two days of this diet I can only eat protein pretty much so it's a tough start.  I'm determined though.

But the biggest news is that in ONE WEEK I WILL BE WITH MY HUSBAND!!  I will be walking around my husband's "campus" seeing his world and I can't wait!!!  I can't wait to hug him, and hold his hand, and see his (according to him) "fit body," and his army uniform!  I can't wait to hear his voice and tell him in person how proud I am.  We've both been so strong (army strong) during this separation and I think we've earned it.

Week 12 - Day 1

9 days, I can't believe it!  You know what that means right?  This week is going to go sooo sllllloowwww... it's a law of physics.  I don't know which law, but I'm sure it's in there somewhere, something about watched pots, or whatever.  Not really my area.

This weekend was a bit of an emotional roller coaster, but when all was said and done I think it balanced more to the positive side of things.  Friday was our six month wedding anniversary, which I guess isn't a huge deal, although in this day and age it means you've been married longer than most of the celebrity marriages that started and ended.  Yippee.  If my soldier was home we probably would have celebrated somehow.  Friday was just a crap day, there was something negative in the air and it just didn't go away.

Saturday, on the other hand, was a wonderful day, a birthday party for my grandmother that we celebrated at my Mom's house with my uncles, aunt, cousins, and grandparents, just a wonderful day filled with comfort food and laughter.  Also, my sherry cake made its family debut and was very well received by all,  including several encores.

Sunday I went to my Mom's band concert, she plays the flute and piccolo in a community concert band, and they played some very cool marches, a Glenn Miller medley, it was a lot of fun.  Well, despite the perfectly timed surprise phone call from my husband who always seems to call me when I'm attempting to have a life, haha.  Never when I'm sitting at home doing nothing!  What am I going to do though?  He called right towards the end of the intermission and I leaped up to take the call and I got to talk to him for 45 minutes!!

They finished their 10 mile march home, which is sort of the final hurrah of the intense basic training, and are now doing a lot of "house-keeping" duties, inventories, cleaning weapons, etc.  He said at one point he was so tired that he was falling asleep while cleaning his weapon, dropping pieces on the floor and everything, haha.  I'd like the thank the army in advance for preparing my husband for taking care of a newborn.  He will be so used to sleep deprivation!  Their unit also got their berets which is a big badge of honor and means that they are that much closer to becoming graduated soldiers.  I cannot WAIT to see him.

In other news, I had to turn down THREE auditions because they conflict with our summer vacation in July/August.  I'm a little upset, but since this vacation is sort of my reason for living these days, haha, I'm not that bummed.  I can't wait for the sea and the sand and a rum swizzle!  I really do live to travel.  Tomorrow will be my first acting class and I'm still cramming my monologue to get it semi-memorized.

Also, these started growing... Spring is trying to get here, despite the icky snow predicted for tomorrow...

Week 11 - Day 1

What a weekend!  I think three day weekends should be mandatory, it just evens out the week.  Even when you're having minor surgery on your Friday off.  Everything went really, really well with the surgery.  I am still a little sore but each day I get better and better.  I am so lucky to have an amazing family to help take care of me in my husband's absences.  I am also super lucky that I had a chance to speak to him both before AND after the surgery.

I spoke with him Wednesday night in the middle of my CPR re-certification class, a surprise call!  As irony would have it, the reason he got to call me was because he aced his Lifesaver exam, how funny is that?  We got to speak for almost 15 minutes and catch up a bit.  I miss him so much, but it's wonderful to hear how well he's doing.

I also got to speak to him Saturday and let him know that everything when well and hear all about how he got a PT badge for excelling in the Physical Training exam.  Also about how he's completely ripped and I'm apparently really going to enjoy his muscled physique, haha.  Hearing that makes me feel like I need to work out more!

Being tender from surgery it was wonderful to have someone around to help take care of me, change my bandage, lift heavy things, keep me fed, and help remind me when to take pain meds.  The first day I was a little groggy from the anesthesia, so there was a lot of napping involved.

Saturday I felt even better, less sore, so I could go out and run some errands and even go out to dinner.  And we watched Frozen OnDemand on Saturday night and they loved it!  Love that movie...

Week 10 - Day 2

My true colors of commitment are showing, I have been remiss in my blog keeping.  But really, it's for your benefit, I wouldn't want you to have to read anything boring.  Although life has actually been mildly entertaining recently...

This weekend was a lot of fun, I got to spent time with my Mom and help babysit my adorable niece.  Every time I babysit her it makes me more and more excited to start a family with my husband.  Of course, she is a VERY well behaved little baby so she makes it seem not so bad.  I love making her laugh and smile and reading to her.  It's so fulfilling.  My Mom and I always have a good time looking after her.  I can't believe she's almost 5 months old... crazy...

I received a bunch of letters from my husband last week, he's amazing and has actually found the time to write me almost daily.  Granted the letters are short and sweet but I'm so proud of the progress he's making.  He sang the National Anthem for his whole Platoon and will probably be the one singing it at his graduation.  No surprise there.  He also told me that in terms of PT or Physical Training, he ranks 5th in his whole platoon.  The guys still don't believe he's as old as he his, well, believe it boys!  I couldn't be more proud of him.  I can't wait to visit him and be let into his world and life there.

In terms of my own PT, I actually motivated myself to go to the gym, and kind of enjoyed it.  A little elliptical, a little arm strength training, it felt good, plus it validated spending the rest of the day doing nothing. Okay, well not nothing, I spent a good part of the day preparing for an audition I had yesterday.  I know, I actually kept my word and auditioned for something finally!

The audition went really well, I felt confident, comfortable, and in rewinding my performance I can't criticize a note.  Those behind the table seemed impressed, but those in the casting world have very good poker faces, so who knows.  Rehearsals for this particular show start April 15th so I may not hear anything for awhile.  Not that that has stopped me from obsessively checking my e-mail every 5 seconds.  Oh wait, I already do that.  Getting a role in this show would mean a major life change, as this is a professional theater and they rehearse 6 days a week all day.  Life change? Sign me up, I'm ready for an adventure!

In other news, I also had a doctor's appointment yesterday and I will be having minor outpatient surgery on Friday.  I don't want to get in to the details, suffice to say, this isn't a life threatening thing, it's fine.  This is something I've been putting off and now is the right time to get it done.  No biggie.

Also, I made Sherry Cake this weekend, a trial run for my grandmother's birthday in a few weeks.  It's a little more cooked than I wanted but it tastes delicious.

Week 9 - Day 2

Happy Fasnacht!  In Pennsylvania Dutch that means Mardis Gras and Fat Tuesday.  So I began my day by abandoning my health breakfast of Greek yogurt or egg whites and indulging in a little FAT:

One doughnut is acceptable, Two doughnuts are FAT

I know. You totally want one right now.  The one on the left is Boston Creme and the other one is your run of the mill chocolate glazed with sprinkles doughnut.  I'm considering giving up chocolate for Lent so today is the day to get in the good stuff before the fast.  The fast on Ash Wednesday makes a lot more sense if you really do pig out the day before.  Although all of my healthy impulses are screaming for me to eat a salad.

I didn't realize that "Fasnacht" was actually a Pennsylvania Dutch thing.  Although, we just called it Fat Tuesday in my house.  In Italian I guess it's Martedí Grasso?  We never called it that growing up.  Apparently the history of why people used to indulge in fattening food was because in olden days people needed to use up their milk, eggs, and butter since they couldn't eat that stuff during Lent.  No eggs during Lent?  That would be hard for me...

I read an article today about things to give up for Lent that aren't necessarily obvious vices but things to give up in the spirits of self improvement and penance.  Examples of things to give up are: stress, impatience, swearing, gossip, etc... to work towards being more Christ-like.  While I get a little uncomfortable citing Jesus as a role model... sorry it just feel disingenuous... some of my favorite parts of Catholicism do focus on being kind and merciful.  I could use a little more kindness in my ever-so-cynical life.

So while I'm still in favor of giving up an obvious vice, like sugar or alcohol (yes I gave that up one year, until I broke it, I was on vacation it was a dumb idea to begin with), I like the idea of giving up some of my personality vices, certainly stress makes sense, and swearing, and dishonesty.  I think those are honorable things to strive for all year, but like anything difficult, sometimes you need a kick start, something like Lent to help you get going.

Like Valentine's Day, do we need one day only to remind the people in our lives that we live them? No, but in our busy, crazy lives, sometimes we need a little push towards better life habits.

Now... on to eating my next doughnut...

Week 9 - Day 1

One month from today my husband will be graduating from Basic Training!  I can't wait.  I got through February, and I was on my own for almost the whole month.  February actually went pretty quickly, which usually isn't the case.  I also bought my tickets for Family Day and Graduation, thank God for airline points otherwise I'd have been paying a pretty penny and had to deal with transfer flights.  Now I just need to find a hotel.

This weekend was a lot of fun.  Saturday was a family day to celebrate my Dad's birthday.  I got to see my brother and my adorable niece who is 4 months old.  It was so much fun to see her, she's at such a fun age.  My Dad cooked delicious chicken and we did the traditional birthday cake thing.  I got him Gravity on DVD which amazingly enough he hadn't already bought for himself.  We even got a chance to watch it on the big screen.

Sunday was meant to be a relaxing day, but unfortunately my evening was interrupted by yet another fire alarm for no reason... at 4am.  Ew.  I was so annoyed, the alarm is so loud, and obnoxious.  So far management hasn't told us what happened.  This is like the fourth or fifth time this has happened.  Nothing better than bonding with your neighbors at 4am in the freezing cold.  Needless to say, my sleep cycle was completely messed up and I slept in until noon.  Not what I wanted.

But, I managed to salvage part of the day and run my pre-storm errands.  Not that there was even any big storm.  But, I was well prepared with mini quiches and spanakopita.  You know, the essentials.  Of course mine were frozen not homemade.  I missed having my Mom in town for the Oscars, but thanks to social media I didn't feel like I was watching them completely alone.

Oscar food and drink

All in all, I thought they were really well done.  I don't remember them being as long as they were this year.  I actually watched them live, and they finished just a little bit after midnight.  Ellen did really well, although I agree with some of the reviewers that she played it a little safe.  Still, she was funny and charming.

I wish I had enough crazy movie friends to through an Oscar bash.  It would be exceedingly epic.  Complete with movie-themed cocktails and trendy finger-foods.

A little March madness theme for my office to leave you with, let's get rid of those snowmen already!

Week 8 - Day 4

So I thought I'd take this opportunity to get back to part of the reason I started this blog, to hold myself accountable for achieving a few goals while my husband is working on his own at Basic Training.  And these were the goals I had wanted to accomplish during his first phase of training:

1)      Work out, work out!!

2)      Write to Adam every day

3)      Learn one new aria

4)      Audition for local community theater

5)      Lose 8 lbs.

6)      Finish decorating the apartment

7)      Reorganize

8)      Finish sorting through wedding stuff

9)      Complete Christmas Bucket List

10)   Finish EMS Continuing Credits

11)    Finish designing this blog

I actually did lose the weight that I wanted to lose but I gained most of it back so it's not really counted as a fulfilled goal, plus, while I occasionally worked out, I don't believe I reached my goal.  So, 7/11 isn't too terrible is it?  I felt very busy and fulfilled during the first phase of his training, now I need to reboot and set some new goals for myself.

1) Work out, 2.0

I am going to make this more achievable and set some weekly goals for myself regarding exercise.

2) Lose 8 lbs

Most of this will involve keeping with the exercise and improving my diet a little bit.  More to come on this.

3) Audition for local community theater

While I may have blown off one or two auditions last year, I think part of the problem was finding something that I really wanted to do.  I did audition for my choir which I was accepted in but I definitely need to find some theater to do.

4) Get re-certified for CPR

This is a little short term but I need to get this done and I need to be accountable for it.  I'm schedule for a class on 3/12.

5) Do something new every week

Pretty self explanatory, I will try to keep it interesting I promise!

6) Finish book about Grandmother

Several years ago I bought this book for my Mom's mother.  She is an amazing woman with an amazing life and I thought it would be fun and historically necessary to interview her and write this book for her and our family.  Note, this was purchased... oh boy I just checked my e-mails, FOUR years ago.  Part of the problem was I used to live far away so getting together was difficult to complete this task.  Also, the original version of this book was destroyed in hurricane Sandy, it was sitting in my car that got flooded, so that was a bit of a set-back.  Now. I have ZERO excuse not to finish this.  Time is a precious thing when it comes to grandparents, and I am going to try and finish this before my solider returns.  Procrastinators need deadlines.  They may not complete the task before the deadline, or even by the deadline, but it will get done.

That's all I have so far, I'm planning on coming up with more goals.  Do you have any suggestions?  What are some goals you have for yourself?

Week 8 - Day 2

What a weekend!  I have been MIA only out of sheer busyness, not curled up in a fetal position on my couch.  The entire weekend, including Friday was all about preparing for a concert with my choir on Sunday.  It is so nice to be back in the music world.

Friday was sort of sad in a way.  I had to go to the mall to get my "uniform" for Sunday: a long black skirt, a plain "fancy" black top, and black shoes that might be comfortable standing for several hours.  It's not fun to go to the mall when you're buying something you don't really want.  It does, however, make for a very efficient shopping excursion.  Plus, the trick becomes, buying things that, while you do need them, you may consider using them at other times.  It was a successful trip and I'm actually wearing the shoes I bought for the third day in a row because they're really cute.  But, it's painful for me to pass buy so many beautiful, colorful clothes.

Saturday, if you recall was a GORGEOUS day... that I spent cooped up in a day long rehearsal.  We rehearsed in this lovely old church nearby a big square park.  Walking to rehearsal we passed this park filled with farmer's market vendors, honey, eggs, produce, so many delicious foods.  It reminded me of living in NYC again and it gave me some pangs.  Being "single" these days has really made me miss being in NYC.  As much as I love Philly, it's just... not NYC.  I miss the walkable, ease, and accessibility of things to do.  The biggest problem with NYC is I'd have no money left living there and finding a nice place to live that doesn't feel like a closet almost ruins the whole experience.  I am missing parts of my life when I was living on the UWS.  That was the best place I've ever lived... minus the psycho roommate, lack of space, and barely being able to make rent.

I also spoke with my husband on Saturday.  The last phone call before radio silence.  He seemed overwhelmed and sleep deprived but determined.  I tried to keep his spirits up, it's so hard, I miss him too.  The poor guy had to completed his entire riflery requirements in a weekend in order to catch up to his new unit.  He did catch up though and he's back on track.  Again, if anyone out there wants his new unit address let me know.  He needs all the love and encouragement we can give him.

The concert on Sunday went really well.  Some of the music is very difficult in the sense that it's a lot of long, high quiet notes and it's not always the most engaging.  However, the result is something so musical.  One of the pieces we sang was a Haydn Mass and that was so much fun to sing.  I am also the luckiest girl in the world, because even though my husband wasn't able to hear my debut with this group, my parents and their significant others all made it out to support me, showering me with love, flowers, and taking me out to dinner to celebrate.  I felt so loved.  I have the best family on Earth.

Yesterday, which should have been an icky Monday was an amazing day... well, after work of course.  I spent the evening with my grandparents having dinner, talking, laughing.  I just feel so lucky that I'm able to drive over to their house after work and have a weeknight dinner with them.  That's something I never had living in NYC and I'm so grateful for it now.  It's a good week so far.

Week 7 - Day 3

I'm dubbing this Wednesday and maybe every other Wednesday depending on my mood as Grumpday.  In lieu of Humpday.  I'm just....eowifhserfjlk today and I just feel like we've gotten to that special place where I can confide in you.

On this fine Grumpday, I am grumpy about traffic and people in this traffic.  I drove to work this morning, actually it's been more frequently lately because I've had doctor's appointments and rehearsals that make taking public transport difficult.  So I drive.

And on this seemingly auspicious day, it took me an extra 20 minutes to stop and get coffee this morning.  The Wawa I go to requires I make a left turn which is always really packed.  No worries, I went, I waited, I was patiently listening to my favorite radio show, and I made it there in one piece.  This particular Wawa parking lot, suffice to say was not designed by an engineer.  It's so clumsy and cramped and very difficult to maneuver during rush hour times.

Low and behold, I found an empty parking space right in the front and as I sped towards it, my heart filled with hope, I see an open car door spot-blocking me.  Okay, surely this person was just getting out of their car, mindfully aware someone was trying to park in the spot next to them.  Wrong.  A young-ish woman getting out, head cocked to the side, trying to walk in a straight line (and failing) balancing a smart phone between her shoulder and ear, talking into it loudly.  Talking on it, completely unaware and uncaring as I patiently waited for her to allow me to park.

Strike one.

I park, speedily grab my own coffee, drink, and breakfast sandwich, all the while hearing her completely insipid conversation which probably could have waited 5 minutes to have.

Strike two

I'm free!  I'm out of the Wawa, perfectly creamed coffee in hand, trying to figure out the best exit strategy.  Another perk of a poorly designed parking lot is a borderline dangerous exit.  Myself and another car are waiting at a light for our turn to go.  Gradually I see the left lane (my lane that I need to turn left and merge left again) piling up with a line of cars.

Green light, the car pulls into the intersection nearly blocking the box.  The middle lane (which is a go straight/turn left lane also) is free, but with that line of cars in the left lane, it doesn't seem safe for me to take that option.  I see a little movement in the left lane so I attempt go only to see my light flash yellow and red.  Shit.  And there is an idiot behind me who also decided to go and is now honking at me to move somewhere.  Except, I can't because I'm almost blocking the intersection.

Since I can't backup because the person behind me is a moron, I am forced to travel the middle lane which puts me in a terrible position to try and get into my lane.  I then see the jerk behind me passing me on the right, because turns out she could have probably gone AROUND ME to get into her lane.  Sure enough, glaring out her window, suddenly not on the phone is my best friend.  The obnoxious, oblivious phone talker.

STRIKE THREE!

I am calling on Karma.... please assist.  That is all.  I leave you with a funny meme.

Courtesy of: http://www.memecenter.com/fun/2430529/karma

Week 7 - Day 1

Are we tired of the snow yet?  I'm not!  I love Winter.  I love snow and sledding (when I get the opportunity), and watching ice skating, and hot chocolate, roaring fires, chunky sweaters, and those brief shining moments during the day when I'm not completely overheated.  I like wintertime because of all the wonderful holidays, getting to look forward to Superbowl and all the award shows.  I know most people love summer more that anything, but in the Winter, I love that most bugs are sleeping or dead, pollen is not plaguing my sinuses, humidity is not ruining my hair and skin, and I'm not in a perpetual state of sweaty ick.

Plus, in the summer most of my favorite comfort foods like beef stew, lasagna, mac and cheese, pot roast, all feel too heavy to eat when it's warm outside.  Plus, I hate that my electric bill goes up during the warmer months because I require an Eskimo chilled home.  Not to mention when it does snow, I get SNOW DAYS!  You just don't get that in the summer...

After Valentine's Day the weekend was pretty quiet.  Saturday I had a lot of stuff to catch up on and managed to get all of my outside errands done before we got more snow and wintry mix.  It's always preferred to be safe and cozy in your house watching the snow.

Sunday was much of the same, with slightly less ambition.  The roads were cleared up, luckily, before I went over to my Mom's for some delicious bouillabaisse.  It was supposed to be a "family Sunday dinner" of sorts, but it ended up just being me.  No complaints!

I also got a lot of texts from my husband during the evenings which was so comforting and yet teasing.  He is still in limbo pretty much doing scut work until he gets assigned to a proper unit.  He will (hopefully) get the all clear from the surgeon on Wednesday and hopefully not have to repeat too much of his training since he's been made to wait.  I wish he could have spent this limbo time with me instead of being cooped up.

On this sunny Monday, I'm very much wishing that my company had President's Day off.  However, my drive in to work this morning was delightfully quick.  No traffic.

Flower puppy from my Dad!

My Valentine's Day

Chocolate!

My Valentine orchid from my husband