I recently got into a tiff with one of my sisters. She'd been moody for a while and decided to unload on me. She thought I was out of line for getting upset when her son and husband decided to, repeatedly, kick a football towards my 10 month old baby, who was 'walking' around the yard with the assistance of one of their daughters. Once the ball came flying past, skimming my baby, I grabbed her and took her inside. Once inside that sister of mine commented how irritated she is with me being so overprotective.
Although she was out of line here, I realized there are times when, perhaps, ALL of you have thought of me as over-protective. Compared to most of you I probably am, but with good reason.
I would never consider judging any of you on how you parent; it's not my place. It's also not my place to tell you and everyone else how I disagree with the way you parent. Chances are, like me, you're doing your best and you have your child's best interests at heart. I can't ever understand why you do some things the way you do, and vice versa. (Even if you THINK you understand, you don't).
I know that saying this doesn't help you 'stand in my shoes', so I thought I'd help you, and especially my sister, understand, just a little, why I am so protective of my little miracle, Annibelle.
After 28 hours of excruciating labor, neglect and SEVERE complications, I saw my purple baby plop onto the table. The doctor we'd paid to catch her didn't even do that. That doctor didn't check to see if I was dialated before she had me push; and I wasn't. This created most of the problems that almost cost me and my baby our lives.
Annibelle had to be resuscitated, and thankfully was revived. I, however, was still in shock and had no desire to hold, or even see my baby. The nurses finally had Peter put her in my arms and I instantly fell in love with her.
I knew I'd be selfish with my first baby. A mother has that right. When Annibelle was just 21 hours old I was informed that, after some tests, they'd discovered my baby had heart disease. I was alone in the room and was told this by phone call. All I could think was that my baby could die, would need open-heart surgery, and may not live a full or long life. I was devastated and heart broken. This moment changed everything for me. I refused to let anyone, other than Peter, hold our delicate baby. I promised her I would keep her safe, and alive.
I learned that she would need open-heart surgery within her first year. I learned that if her heart pumped too fast she could die. This meant I couldn't let her cry. Anyone with a baby knows that's a difficult, if not impossible, task. If she cried her heart could stop, and she would die... and it would be my fault. I attended to her better than any mother has ever attended to their baby. I learned her noises that meant she needed something so she would never have to let me know through her tears.
We learned that RSV season was just weeks away, and with her weak heart working SO hard to function she could get sick much easier than other babies, and much worse too! Catching RSV, or any major childhood illness could land our baby in the hospital, or perhaps even the grave. Clean hands and good heath/habits are absolutely necessary around her. I stayed inside 99% of the time during that first RSV season. It was difficult for me. I longed to get out and see people and move around. The sacrifice was necessary for her life, and will be again this year, as her heart still struggles to heal and function properly. (You can only imagine the stress this put on me when I discovered we'd have 15 people at our home for Christmas!)
Because of her heart problems she couldn't keep herself warm on her own. If I layed her down by herself for 15 minutes, her skin would feel ice cold to the touch, so I kept her near me and Peter all the time, even at night. (Especially at night!) It's true, I was controlled by fear. I confess I should have asked for a blessing much sooner than I did, for once I did, it brought me great peace. Before that I was pretty sure I would die from high blood pressure! ...the weight on my shoulders was more than I could possibly describe to you. I even got my first gray hair!
I had high hopes each time we went to see her cardiologist, and each time those hopes were dashed to pieces. At 4 months old we were informed that she would not make it to the intended 10-months-old; she needed surgery asap. Her surgery was scheduled for exactly one month from that day; March 17th. (It was later that week both Annibelle and I received a blessing of healing and comfort. I then knew that she would survive this part of the trial).
The weeks leading up to the surgery were stressful. I prayed constantly for my baby; that she wouldn't be afraid, that the doctor would be guided by the Spirit, and that I would be comforted too.
The night before the surgery was one of the hardest in my life. I couldn't feed her; doctor's orders. She was hungry and wanted her mommy. I had to hand her to Peter and have him take her downstairs so both Annibelle and I wouldn't be so upset. I cried and prayed, "Please comfort my baby and don't let her be afraid or hungry". I prayed all that night and morning. I prayed and cried the entire dark drive to the hospital. My mom met us there.
It was so hard, and painful for me to hold that tiny babe in my arms. She was tired and hungry and all I could do was hold her and cry and pray. I stripped my baby of all but her diaper and put on the tiny baby gown they had given me. I was grateful for the laugh when we discovered that Annibelle was too fat to wear the socks and the ankle band they gave for her. When at last I had to hand her to the nurse, she didn't cry; not a peep! ...but I did. Oh, I sobbed. Like a baby. For about 5 minutes. Then, I said another little prayer, stood up and followed mom and Peter out of the pre-op area and into the waiting area on the 3rd floor. I have to tell you that, at this point, I was suddenly overcome with peace, and a lightness of heart. I could literally FEEL the prayers being prayed in our behalf, and I KNEW the surgery would go well. I could have skipped I felt so free! ...free of all the weight and worry that had been holding me under water the past 5 months.
Nurses came out about every 30-60 minutes to update us on the progress of the surgery. They told me she didn't cry once! She wasn't afraid! (A prayer answered!) It took 3 1/2 hours just to get all of her lines in. It took 3 hours after that to operate on her heart. Every hour or two I had to go to the 5th floor heart-center to pump. I was grateful for the chance to leave the waiting area.
7 long hours later we were lead to the PICU where our tiny 5-month old daughter lay with over 20 tubes attached to her, in a medically-paralyzed state. She was retaining water and looked puffy. She was naked, but for a diaper and a blanket laid over her. I still felt peace. I stayed there beside her most of the time, talking to her, touching her hand, checking her temperature, cleaning out her mouth and changing her diaper, instead of letting the nurses do it. We worried a bit as her temperature kept rising. I would only leave her side if my mom was there beside her. I refused to leave her alone. I didn't want her to be afraid.
We spent 5 anxious days in the PICU. 5 days praying she would wake up, recover and be healed. 5 days of not getting to nurse or hold our little one. 5 days trying to comfort her and help her understand what was happening, and that it was temporary.
On day 6 we finally got to take her up to the 5th floor heart center. At this point she got a new bed and only had 2 lines. I could finally lay beside my baby and nurse her, (though she'd forgotten how and tried to nip me with her teeth the first couple days). At this point she didn't have any pain meds, nothing to dull the frightening reality. She was too young to understand what was happening; too young to find comfort in my words. I requested a bouncer, put her in it and put on a Baby Einstein video; Annibelle was SO relieved to see something familiar that she actually laughed out loud! She saw the light at the end of the tunnel. I cried again.
The 3 days/4 nights in the heart center felt like WEEKS! Once up there, Peter went home. I was alone with the baby in that tiny hospital room with nothing to do, no one to talk to. Each day the nurses would come in and tell me, "Today might be the day!" Each day I'd get the news that we were staying another day. Another day. Another day. (The nurses up there aren't nearly as nice as the ones in the PICU either!)
The nurses started making me squirt the medicines down Annibelle's throat instead of giving them through the I.V. It would make her cry, and would make me feel like a bad mommy because I couldn't explain to my baby why I had to do this. After all she'd been through, she was scared. She would start sobbing in fear any time a nurse or doctor came in the room, (which was quite often). I hadn't felt the warm peace in many days. I felt like we were prisoners there. I would have paid anything to take my baby home!
Every morning in the heart center a nurse would wake us up around 5:30am and have me carry my sleepy babe through the cold hallways to the first floor for an x-ray of her heart. On day 7 a bunch of nurses came into the room early in the morning saying they wanted to take out her main line so that it wouldn't get infected, (which would me a month or more in the hospital!) I was all for it until I realized they wanted to put in another line to replace it... while she was fully awake and feeling the pain! I asked them to bring in their BEST 'vein finding nurse'. They did. They checked her hands, wrists, arms, legs, feet... there were NO veins to be found! The brought in a 'snake light' so they could see the veins through her skin and none could be seen! The only vein they could use was at the top of her forehead. (I couldn't help but wonder HOW they planned on keeping her from pulling out a needle/line that would be hanging down in front of her face, but I didn't ask). They had me wake my sleeping babe and pin her to the bed while they shoved a needle in her head. Annibelle was screaming in fear and pain, and I was sobbing, my tears dripping onto her face. (I felt embarrassed to be crying, though I know even mommies have tears). After a few painful attempts, and what felt like an eternity they gave up. They left in the previous line... and they hoped, and I prayed, that it wouldn't get infected.
Early the next morning a moody nurse loudly and rudely startled me and my baby awake and told us we'd be going home today! I didn't care much that she was being a jerk because she'd just given me the best news! A group of about 10 med school docs and nurses gathered around the bed, turned on the blinding emergency lights and took out the remaining line from near my baby's collar bone.
Once they left the room I called Peter and told him the great news and begged him to get to us as quickly as possible. I wanted out before anyone changed their mind! I quickly showered and packed up all of our stuff. Peter arrived in good time and we loaded up the little red wagon, the stroller and our arms with all of our stuff, as we had no desire to return to that room, even if it meant getting our stuff to take home! Once home I felt like I'd awakened from a nightmare. I could only guess that our baby felt the same way.
Each time I change her diaper now I see proof on her perfect little chest, of the nightmare we lived through just 6 months ago. I can't escape the memory; the scar is always there staring at me, reminding me that we're not in the clear yet. She still needs our prayers. Another open-heart surgery might still be lurking around the corner, and the mere thought of that turns me into a puddle of tears. I don't want us to go through that again! Our little miracle is still so afraid of strangers; afraid that they will hurt her. They say babies forget, but mine doesn't. She has a LONG memory, and so do I. At the sight of a blood-pressure cuff she turns to me with fear in her eyes and cries! You can imagine how this breaks my heart. She is uncertain and afraid of the world and people around her now. It's my goal to make her feel safe. And keep her safe.
When someone in the family wants to hold her, I have them ask her for her permission. I won't let her be 'taken' by someone because they selfishly want to hold a baby. It's about her, not you. If you have a cough or cold you won't be allowed near her. This tiny cough in you could mean death to her delicate body. Her doctors like to remind us of that, so we like to remind all of you. Obviously, we don't do this because of YOU, but because of HER. AND, for those of you with grown children, might I ask you to close your eyes and remember the time you had just ONE, tiny baby to love and care for. Remember how you didn't want to share him/her with anyone else? Remember how you were so concerned for his/her health? A mommy has a right to be selfish with her own baby. So, when I decline you generous offers to babysit our little one, please take no offense. It's about us, not you. The day will come when we have our hands full with 2 or more kids, and we will be much more willing to take you up on your offer. For now, we are perfectly happy to tow around out little one with us, as having her near us lets us know what she is/isn't being exposed to and keeps her at peace and feeling safe. (AND because she's SO stinkin' cute and makes us laugh!)
Each day we still wonder what the future holds for our little miracle, and we pray that if it be the Lord's will, her heart will heal enough that she will not need another open-heart surgery. (At least not until she's MUCH older!) We ask you all to, please, remember our little Annibelle in your prayers each day, as she is still in a very dangerous situation with her heart. We know she is hefty, but she is very delicate on the inside. <3
To close, might I suggest that the next time you, or anyone you know thinks I'm being over-protective, read this blog; imagine this is your baby. Your experience, and retract your critical thought. And, maybe, say a prayer of gratitude that your kid(s) are healthy and well, and that this nightmare we live is just a story to you.
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Crazy Cat Lady
I could have guessed, at some point in my youth, that I would one day be a so-called "crazy cat lady".I've always been fond of felines, great and small alike. I envy my sis-in-law who had a chance to work at a sanctuary with Lions, tigers and such. In fact, if you were to ask me what I most look forward to in the millennium I would tell you that it's to be able to ride on the back of a lion and approach the large cats; white tigers and black panthers included.
Before getting married, Peter and I each owned a cat (Bubble and Lammie); both of them black and white, ironically. For various reasons we left those cats with their respective 'grand parents'. (Living in an apartment made outdoor cats impossible to have).
After a couple weeks of marriage I found myself driving past a 'free kittens' sign. I called Peter and asked if we could get one, and he said sure. I ended up getting the 2 sisters in the litter, and B.D. named them for me; Katie Bug (the calico), and Lilly (the tabby).
A year later we moved into our first, and current, home. I was expecting our first child in October. 2 months prior to our daughters arrival, while helping family pack up for a cross-country move, we found a stow-away in our truck; and adorable, little, gray kitten. I wasn't thrilled with the idea of a new kitten considering my soon-to-be mommy-status, but Peter wanted to keep the boy, and it didn't take him much to convince me. So now we had 3 cats. Jacks was the new addition, and, I must add, is the best cat anyone could possibly have! He is wonderful, and we all love 'our boy', and he loves us; especially the baby. (Peter's also glad to not be the lone male in the house anymore).
Fast forward to present day. We have been attracting all the strays in the area somehow; it seems word has gotten out that we love and accept all cats, and there are quite a few sweet cats who have been abandoned. It's sad. But Peter and I are happy to do our part in caring for God's creatures, and feeding these sweet animals.
A few weeks ago Lilly disappeared; she was gone for a week and we were certain we'd never see her again. At the same time Peter's mom had kittens to get rid of. Wanting to help her out, we accepted a little orange one in Lilly's place, and named him Milo. 3 days later Jacks found Lilly and brought her home, upping our number to 4. A couple days later Jacks made a new friend, who Livvie named Pumpkin. The next morning when we opened the door to let Jacks inside, Pumpkin ran in right behind him and made himself at home. (Note that Pumpkin seems to have a home, and is only an occasional guest in our home).
Well, then there's Scruffy, the black and white stray who comes to our back door in hopes of a 'warm meal' and some affection, which he usually gets. His name speaks for his appearance. Scruffy always thanks be with a head-ponk to my hand before eating his kibble. He's sweet. =) Katie is especially fond of him.
Lastly, for now anyway, is Jade. He appeared a few days ago. Jade is mostly orange. He is LONG, TALL, and VERY SKINNY. The name came from his HUGE, green eyes. As with each of the strays that find their way to us, he is very sweet.
It's heart breaking to realize how many cats have been deserted by their owners. And, although it turns me into the cat-lady I was always afraid of becoming, I (we) are grateful that they have each been guided to us, making it possible for us to serve and love Heavenly Father's creations in our own unique way.
Before getting married, Peter and I each owned a cat (Bubble and Lammie); both of them black and white, ironically. For various reasons we left those cats with their respective 'grand parents'. (Living in an apartment made outdoor cats impossible to have).
After a couple weeks of marriage I found myself driving past a 'free kittens' sign. I called Peter and asked if we could get one, and he said sure. I ended up getting the 2 sisters in the litter, and B.D. named them for me; Katie Bug (the calico), and Lilly (the tabby).
A year later we moved into our first, and current, home. I was expecting our first child in October. 2 months prior to our daughters arrival, while helping family pack up for a cross-country move, we found a stow-away in our truck; and adorable, little, gray kitten. I wasn't thrilled with the idea of a new kitten considering my soon-to-be mommy-status, but Peter wanted to keep the boy, and it didn't take him much to convince me. So now we had 3 cats. Jacks was the new addition, and, I must add, is the best cat anyone could possibly have! He is wonderful, and we all love 'our boy', and he loves us; especially the baby. (Peter's also glad to not be the lone male in the house anymore).
Fast forward to present day. We have been attracting all the strays in the area somehow; it seems word has gotten out that we love and accept all cats, and there are quite a few sweet cats who have been abandoned. It's sad. But Peter and I are happy to do our part in caring for God's creatures, and feeding these sweet animals.
A few weeks ago Lilly disappeared; she was gone for a week and we were certain we'd never see her again. At the same time Peter's mom had kittens to get rid of. Wanting to help her out, we accepted a little orange one in Lilly's place, and named him Milo. 3 days later Jacks found Lilly and brought her home, upping our number to 4. A couple days later Jacks made a new friend, who Livvie named Pumpkin. The next morning when we opened the door to let Jacks inside, Pumpkin ran in right behind him and made himself at home. (Note that Pumpkin seems to have a home, and is only an occasional guest in our home).
Well, then there's Scruffy, the black and white stray who comes to our back door in hopes of a 'warm meal' and some affection, which he usually gets. His name speaks for his appearance. Scruffy always thanks be with a head-ponk to my hand before eating his kibble. He's sweet. =) Katie is especially fond of him.
Lastly, for now anyway, is Jade. He appeared a few days ago. Jade is mostly orange. He is LONG, TALL, and VERY SKINNY. The name came from his HUGE, green eyes. As with each of the strays that find their way to us, he is very sweet.
It's heart breaking to realize how many cats have been deserted by their owners. And, although it turns me into the cat-lady I was always afraid of becoming, I (we) are grateful that they have each been guided to us, making it possible for us to serve and love Heavenly Father's creations in our own unique way.
Sunday, June 21, 2009
What to do?
Life is full of ups and downs, year to year, month to month, day to day, moment to moment. Mine seem to be more of the "moment to moment" type.
I'm not a big fan of change; it's hard for me. I still long for the 'good old days' when my siblings and I all lived at home together, staying up late and acting like fools while eating Totino's Pizzas. I long to have both parents alive; to have a father to turn to for help with my car, house, garden... I confess that as my mother prepares for her mission with excitement, I feel as though I'm just losing my last parent and becoming an orphan; what will I do? Who do I go to for advice? Who will stay up late with me, adoring my little baby girl and eating salty thing while discussing life and beyond?
So many changes stand at our door step; what/where will the next job be? Should we buy that house we have our eye on, (assuming my Roo finally gets paid)? Is it worth leaving a house we love, for a yard we long for? (Probably). Even more importantly, do I put my baby on that new drug or not? Will it help, or just cause new problems over time. (Not a big fan of medications). With the threat of another open-heart surgery hanging over our heads, I supposed medications aren't that bad in comparison... unless it doesn't help in the slightest. Hmph.
What to do??
I'm not a big fan of change; it's hard for me. I still long for the 'good old days' when my siblings and I all lived at home together, staying up late and acting like fools while eating Totino's Pizzas. I long to have both parents alive; to have a father to turn to for help with my car, house, garden... I confess that as my mother prepares for her mission with excitement, I feel as though I'm just losing my last parent and becoming an orphan; what will I do? Who do I go to for advice? Who will stay up late with me, adoring my little baby girl and eating salty thing while discussing life and beyond?
So many changes stand at our door step; what/where will the next job be? Should we buy that house we have our eye on, (assuming my Roo finally gets paid)? Is it worth leaving a house we love, for a yard we long for? (Probably). Even more importantly, do I put my baby on that new drug or not? Will it help, or just cause new problems over time. (Not a big fan of medications). With the threat of another open-heart surgery hanging over our heads, I supposed medications aren't that bad in comparison... unless it doesn't help in the slightest. Hmph.
What to do??
Monday, June 1, 2009
Weed Killer...
A while back Peter and I bought some weed-killer; I wanted the kind you spray on each individual weed so I could be sure each one in the front yard would die. Unfortunately, as soon as it was put away, we had no idea where it was! We looked over and over in the garage, but to no avail. A couple weeks later we received a 'notice' in the mail from our Home Owners Assoc. saying that were were breaking some rule by having a dandelion in our yard. (As if I planted it there myself). Peter and I were suddenly quite happy we couldn't locate the weed-killer. =) Our way of spitting in the face of the HOA who doesn't even live here! (who the heck are they anyway?!)
Fast forward a week or so... My sister in law and I had a girls day out; it was great! And all about baby clothes! After using up our gift cards at Babies R Us we headed over to Chick Fil-A for some healthy nom. As we were ordering our food, each with a wiggly baby in our arms, I had a mommy moment and couldn't, for the life of me, remember the word "lemonade", instead all I could think was "vanilla" (Agh! Not in public!!) The guy at the register just stared at me like I was having a seizure. "Are you okay?", he asked. "Yeah; just having a mommy-moment; sorry.... Ummmm..... Uhhh......That." (I point to Rachel's cup of lemonade). Instead of understanding me, the guy thinks something's wrong with her drink! Ugh! Come on! My brain went on vacation!!!! What can I do? Finally, after laughing at myself and looking like a fool, I manage to get the right word out, and the guy behind the register begins filling my cup with lemonade,but not before giving me a strange look. While he does this, I proceed to laugh at myself and then tell Rachel how "The other day, I went to wash the bathroom mirror; I squirted on the cleaner, and before I wiped it off I sniffed...looked down at the container and realized I was holding the weed-killer I'd been looking for the last month! And it was all over my mirror!!" I felt so foolish, but had to laugh; hard. I laughed so hard I snorted. Rachel laughed too, but not hard enough to snort... all the while the guy behind the register is staring at me with concerned eyes. "Are you SURE you're OK?", he asks. I stop laughing. "Yeah. Pretty sure. As OK as any other mom", I reply. He carried our food over to the table for us, but kept that raised eyebrow look on his face that had "You escaped from the psych ward, didn't you?" written all over it.
...I still can't find the window cleaner.
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Back in the Kitchen
Now that a month or so has passed since Baby-Roo's open-heart surgery, and she is a toothy 7-month old who can entertain herself for short periods of time, I am finding that if I'm quick and determined, I can manage to fit in time every now and then to make something yummy to eat! My latest discovery/creation is potato soup! I know, I know... this is hardly my usual cake/dessert creation, for which I am well known, yet, some days you just need something salty. Potato soup and homemade bread do the job quite nicely! I've made it 3 times now, and feel comfortable enough to make it w/out even glancing at a recipe. Naturally, I put my own twist on it each time!
Baking has always been a passion of mine, and I'm finally feeling brave enough to try some of the things I have always been afraid of! (Such as cooking with yeast, or meat and making a rue). I can't deny that I excitedly await the day when Baby-Roo is old enough to bake with me in the kitchen. I just hope she is filled with the passion for baking as I am. What fun we will have creating culinary masterpieces together and eating cookies!
Saturday, May 2, 2009
2 year anniversary festivities
April 30th was our 2 year anniversary. I can admit that the week leading up to it was our hardest yet; I was dreading this day we were supposed to 'celebrate', because I didn't feel like celebrating.
The night before, Peter went to a lot of work to install a night-vision camera in the bedroom that connects to our t.v. downstairs so I can watch/hear our little one sleeping when she's up and I'm down. Very sweet. It still needs to be tweaked, but will be great when I works right. That softened my heart a bit.
On the 'big day' we went to a late lunch/early dinner at our favorite Mexican restaurant, El Torito. We were one of 2 couples there, and Baby-Roo had fallen asleep on the way over, so it was like we were on a date by ourselves. Unfortunately for us, the cooks had not deviened the shrimp like they were supposed to, and that kind of ruined it for me. We also ordered fried ice cream, but it was gross; I was really surprised. Luckily, the manager asked how our meal was and we told her about the shrimp, so she gave us our meal for free! I guess that made it worthwhile. We left a nice-sized tip for our server and headed over to the fashion mall so Peter could pick out a new lap top, as his old/new one recently bit the dust.
Shopping at the fashion mall was my favorite part of the date! We went into Gymboree and shopped through the sale racks; we bought all sorts of onesies for us and our new nieces, and even bought a few sun-hats for the babe. What a cutie she is!!
Next we tried to find some jeans for me; no luck. It is really hard to fit this butt with these short legs!
So, we headed back towards the Apple store, stopped in William Sonoma to look for a crepe pan; didn't want to pay $100 for it, so we moved on to the Body Shop! That was FUN! Peter let me try some little make up items on him... it was a blast! And I got to get some new eye shadow! The whole time I was in there I kept thinking of Amy, though, and how I want to buy eye cream from her, so I'd better not buy it here. lol
Peter found the newest and bestest Apple laptop he could, and Baby-Roo and I left him there to finish the job so I could feed the baby. Of course, Peter took MUCH longer than expected, so the babe and I were forced to shop for pretty shoes! Eventually Peter arrived and took a seat next to the sleeping babe while I was fitted for some cute Sunday/dress shoes. While trying on shoes a 'flaming' and envious salesman walked by, noticed Peter next to the stroller and surrounded by Apple treasures; he paused and said to Peter, "Congratulations! ....enjoy your new computer! I'm Green (with envy)". Are you kidding me? Congratulations on your computer?!?! Hello! Don't you mean, congratulations on your new baby? No offense, but gay people have some REALLY screwed up priorities. I wanted to trip the guy.
Anyway, that was pretty much our day. In all we ended up with a new laptop, printer, 3 pairs of shoes, 3 sun hats, a lot of cute baby clothes, some new makeup, a free meal, and a sleeping baby. It was a day to remember. =)
May the next two years be better and easier! ...Please.
The night before, Peter went to a lot of work to install a night-vision camera in the bedroom that connects to our t.v. downstairs so I can watch/hear our little one sleeping when she's up and I'm down. Very sweet. It still needs to be tweaked, but will be great when I works right. That softened my heart a bit.
On the 'big day' we went to a late lunch/early dinner at our favorite Mexican restaurant, El Torito. We were one of 2 couples there, and Baby-Roo had fallen asleep on the way over, so it was like we were on a date by ourselves. Unfortunately for us, the cooks had not deviened the shrimp like they were supposed to, and that kind of ruined it for me. We also ordered fried ice cream, but it was gross; I was really surprised. Luckily, the manager asked how our meal was and we told her about the shrimp, so she gave us our meal for free! I guess that made it worthwhile. We left a nice-sized tip for our server and headed over to the fashion mall so Peter could pick out a new lap top, as his old/new one recently bit the dust.
Shopping at the fashion mall was my favorite part of the date! We went into Gymboree and shopped through the sale racks; we bought all sorts of onesies for us and our new nieces, and even bought a few sun-hats for the babe. What a cutie she is!!
Next we tried to find some jeans for me; no luck. It is really hard to fit this butt with these short legs!
So, we headed back towards the Apple store, stopped in William Sonoma to look for a crepe pan; didn't want to pay $100 for it, so we moved on to the Body Shop! That was FUN! Peter let me try some little make up items on him... it was a blast! And I got to get some new eye shadow! The whole time I was in there I kept thinking of Amy, though, and how I want to buy eye cream from her, so I'd better not buy it here. lol
Peter found the newest and bestest Apple laptop he could, and Baby-Roo and I left him there to finish the job so I could feed the baby. Of course, Peter took MUCH longer than expected, so the babe and I were forced to shop for pretty shoes! Eventually Peter arrived and took a seat next to the sleeping babe while I was fitted for some cute Sunday/dress shoes. While trying on shoes a 'flaming' and envious salesman walked by, noticed Peter next to the stroller and surrounded by Apple treasures; he paused and said to Peter, "Congratulations! ....enjoy your new computer! I'm Green (with envy)". Are you kidding me? Congratulations on your computer?!?! Hello! Don't you mean, congratulations on your new baby? No offense, but gay people have some REALLY screwed up priorities. I wanted to trip the guy.
Anyway, that was pretty much our day. In all we ended up with a new laptop, printer, 3 pairs of shoes, 3 sun hats, a lot of cute baby clothes, some new makeup, a free meal, and a sleeping baby. It was a day to remember. =)
May the next two years be better and easier! ...Please.
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
House Hunting
A few of you may know that Peter and I are back at it again; house hunting. Yes, it's true, the one year mark of owning our first/current home is up in a few days, and it seem silly to be looking to move again so soon, right? Well, not really to us. For starters, we're not thrilled with our back yard. We went through a hassle to switch lots before the house was built because this one had a flatter yard... just a gentle slope. Well, the builders ruined that, and now we have the steepest driveway and back yard in the neighborhood. Forget putting in a swing set or garden. We have also discovered that not all neighbors are nice neighbors, and that if they smoke, we smell it. (Though, luckily, none nearby us do that. It's only when walking down certain streets do we have to make a quick U-turn). Anyway, to get to the point, we wanted/want a house we can call home and GROW as a family in. We don't want to move in 5-10 years. We want to put down roots. Now, Indiana is the last place I ever wanted to end up, but life is full of surprises. I have family here, and it's the only place I know as home. I think I'll stay, despite my qualms.
The first house we looked at was in Noblesville. Immediately we fell in love with the 20 acres of 1/2 wooded property! We loved the space and freedom! The privacy was perfect, with 3 neighbors nearby. The pole barn was HUGE and held limitless possibilities. The 2 old cabins near the front of the property were exciting to our youthful minds. Oh the possibilities! The problem? The house. Not at all what we were looking for. Small. Too small. No front room! And a deck where the living room ought to be. The family room looked as though it had been cut short a good 5-7 feet, and I knew at once that not one of our 3 couches would even fit in that room! Plus, there was no wall for a TV. Hmm... not liking it. The master bedroom was small with no room for a crib, and only had a single sink and a shower. No tub. Each bathroom only had one sink. Not impressed. We'll keep it in mind only because we LOVE The property.
The next house was in Brownsburg. Only 2 acres, but we had high hopes for this one. The front looked clean, new and nicely landscaped. It was built in 2004, so it should be pretty nice... or so we thought. We opened the door and were shocked to find that that doorknob was the only thing left attached to the house! The previous owners, who had moved out long ago, took EVERYTHING with them.. except their nasty messes! There wasn't a knob left on a door or cabinet! Even the toilet paper rolls and towel rods had been removed from the walls! The floors were disgusting! Covered in, what looked like, years of crud from children and teenagers. The sinks had dried toothpaste-spit in them, and some other frightening orange colored crud. The walls looked like they'd been torn down on accident and replaced with buckets of rough putty. In the dining room we found a HUGE hole in the ceiling, and as Peter and our realtor stood under and looked up they heard water drip! Inside the house!!!! We attempted to open the basement door, but were greeted with a strong smell of urine! At that point we grabbed the baby and ran to the car. NEXT!
Now this house really looked and sounded like everything we were looking for.. and here in Westfield too! Around 20 acres, partly wooded, 2 pole barns for our creative side! 3900 square feet of room to grow in, out in the country. We were pretty sure this sounded like "IT". We arrive with smiles, walk in the door and... our eyes start watering! Why??? SMOKERS! YUCK! Maybe if they replaced the carpet? Nope. We looked down and they already had!!!! We still looked around, and, unfortunately, I had to nurse the baby in there, as it was in the high 30's outside. We didn't stay long, but it only took 20 minutes there to leave with a sore throat and burning eyes. We checked out the pole barns on the way out. They were empty, but still smelled strongly of horses. I would have nursed the baby in there had I known how much better it smelled.
Today's house was really out there! (In the country, I mean). It's one I had looked at but dismissed because the front of the house looks a little flashier than I'd like. (I'm not a big fan of drawing attention to myself. I figure I'm safer that way). Well, Peter decided it was too cool of a house to pass up, AND, much cheaper than the "smoke house", as we call it. (What a joke that was!) This house looks like a plantation house; complete with 4 huge, white pillars holding up the house-long front porch. The house is set way back, which adds to it's drama. To the left of the house is a huge pole barn which has a 2 bed/2bath apartment inside, complete with private garage. (Nice!) There's a huge pond in front of the house... well, it's mostly empty and looks like it needs to be filled half-way in with dirt to serve the purpose of collecting rain water. We walk inside the front door and I can almost hear little angels singing, "Aaaaaaaaa". It's neat. Open. Simple. Made to look older than it is, but in a warm, welcoming way. The wood is medium in color, not white as is so popular right now. I usually prefer white. I LOVED This. It felt like home. The kitchen isn't huge like my current one, but it's open and very do-able! The master bedroom is on the main floor; not a huge fan of that, but I'm willing to compromise. In the basement is a quaint area for movie watching, another area for whatever (pool table, work-out equipment, you name it). Connected to that is an in-law quarters, complete with a full kitchen and living room! We would probably make that Peter's office so he could actually focus and have room to hire an employee or two. Oh, did I mention it's a walk-out basement? Nice. The upstairs holds the kids rooms, each with a closet the size of a room... which has a door to the unfinished attic. (A little dry wall and paint and it's a play room! ...there are 2 of those!) There's a tiny little loft which could serve as the family computer room (we don't want anyone looking at naughty things!), and stairs from there lead up to another attic for storage... or perhaps, someday, another room! It's the perfect house to grow with! There are also 5 restrooms in the house. Awesome.
Peter took me some horrible round-about way to get there. We must have driven through at least 18 "towns" no one ever knew existed. It about ruined the house for me. But, on the way back I chose the directions and after 10 miles on the main road we hopped onto 69; within 15 minutes from there I'd passed a mall, the pediatrician and the chiropractor and had almost reached Castleton mall. Yep. This place was reachable. (without going through 18 "towns", and without going 15 mph the whole way for 2 hours). 40 minutes later we were in our living room, and on a major high! We may have just found our (almost) dream house! (WOOHOO!!!) Now if a certain someone would hand over Peter's hard-earned dough...!
To be continued...
The first house we looked at was in Noblesville. Immediately we fell in love with the 20 acres of 1/2 wooded property! We loved the space and freedom! The privacy was perfect, with 3 neighbors nearby. The pole barn was HUGE and held limitless possibilities. The 2 old cabins near the front of the property were exciting to our youthful minds. Oh the possibilities! The problem? The house. Not at all what we were looking for. Small. Too small. No front room! And a deck where the living room ought to be. The family room looked as though it had been cut short a good 5-7 feet, and I knew at once that not one of our 3 couches would even fit in that room! Plus, there was no wall for a TV. Hmm... not liking it. The master bedroom was small with no room for a crib, and only had a single sink and a shower. No tub. Each bathroom only had one sink. Not impressed. We'll keep it in mind only because we LOVE The property.
The next house was in Brownsburg. Only 2 acres, but we had high hopes for this one. The front looked clean, new and nicely landscaped. It was built in 2004, so it should be pretty nice... or so we thought. We opened the door and were shocked to find that that doorknob was the only thing left attached to the house! The previous owners, who had moved out long ago, took EVERYTHING with them.. except their nasty messes! There wasn't a knob left on a door or cabinet! Even the toilet paper rolls and towel rods had been removed from the walls! The floors were disgusting! Covered in, what looked like, years of crud from children and teenagers. The sinks had dried toothpaste-spit in them, and some other frightening orange colored crud. The walls looked like they'd been torn down on accident and replaced with buckets of rough putty. In the dining room we found a HUGE hole in the ceiling, and as Peter and our realtor stood under and looked up they heard water drip! Inside the house!!!! We attempted to open the basement door, but were greeted with a strong smell of urine! At that point we grabbed the baby and ran to the car. NEXT!
Now this house really looked and sounded like everything we were looking for.. and here in Westfield too! Around 20 acres, partly wooded, 2 pole barns for our creative side! 3900 square feet of room to grow in, out in the country. We were pretty sure this sounded like "IT". We arrive with smiles, walk in the door and... our eyes start watering! Why??? SMOKERS! YUCK! Maybe if they replaced the carpet? Nope. We looked down and they already had!!!! We still looked around, and, unfortunately, I had to nurse the baby in there, as it was in the high 30's outside. We didn't stay long, but it only took 20 minutes there to leave with a sore throat and burning eyes. We checked out the pole barns on the way out. They were empty, but still smelled strongly of horses. I would have nursed the baby in there had I known how much better it smelled.
Today's house was really out there! (In the country, I mean). It's one I had looked at but dismissed because the front of the house looks a little flashier than I'd like. (I'm not a big fan of drawing attention to myself. I figure I'm safer that way). Well, Peter decided it was too cool of a house to pass up, AND, much cheaper than the "smoke house", as we call it. (What a joke that was!) This house looks like a plantation house; complete with 4 huge, white pillars holding up the house-long front porch. The house is set way back, which adds to it's drama. To the left of the house is a huge pole barn which has a 2 bed/2bath apartment inside, complete with private garage. (Nice!) There's a huge pond in front of the house... well, it's mostly empty and looks like it needs to be filled half-way in with dirt to serve the purpose of collecting rain water. We walk inside the front door and I can almost hear little angels singing, "Aaaaaaaaa". It's neat. Open. Simple. Made to look older than it is, but in a warm, welcoming way. The wood is medium in color, not white as is so popular right now. I usually prefer white. I LOVED This. It felt like home. The kitchen isn't huge like my current one, but it's open and very do-able! The master bedroom is on the main floor; not a huge fan of that, but I'm willing to compromise. In the basement is a quaint area for movie watching, another area for whatever (pool table, work-out equipment, you name it). Connected to that is an in-law quarters, complete with a full kitchen and living room! We would probably make that Peter's office so he could actually focus and have room to hire an employee or two. Oh, did I mention it's a walk-out basement? Nice. The upstairs holds the kids rooms, each with a closet the size of a room... which has a door to the unfinished attic. (A little dry wall and paint and it's a play room! ...there are 2 of those!) There's a tiny little loft which could serve as the family computer room (we don't want anyone looking at naughty things!), and stairs from there lead up to another attic for storage... or perhaps, someday, another room! It's the perfect house to grow with! There are also 5 restrooms in the house. Awesome.
Peter took me some horrible round-about way to get there. We must have driven through at least 18 "towns" no one ever knew existed. It about ruined the house for me. But, on the way back I chose the directions and after 10 miles on the main road we hopped onto 69; within 15 minutes from there I'd passed a mall, the pediatrician and the chiropractor and had almost reached Castleton mall. Yep. This place was reachable. (without going through 18 "towns", and without going 15 mph the whole way for 2 hours). 40 minutes later we were in our living room, and on a major high! We may have just found our (almost) dream house! (WOOHOO!!!) Now if a certain someone would hand over Peter's hard-earned dough...!
To be continued...