I've become slightly obsessed with time lately. The passing/wasting/general usage of it. It's quickness and sometimes it's painful slowness. Most of all I've struggled with the balance of time, specifically when it comes to work and family.
On a typical day, I spend 9-10 hours at work (including commute) and less than 3 hours with my son. Does that figure punch you right in the face, or is it just me?
Let's do some delving.
Des wakes up at 6am and I leave for work at 7:45am. In that hour and 45 minutes, Des has to be changed, dressed, fed, get all his stuff ready for daycare, and there's usually a few minutes left over for some play time. Both Tony and I have to get dressed and ready also. This is not a huge factor, as I usually just throw some clothes on, toss my hair up in a ponytail, and finish my make-up when I'm stuck in traffic. Fashion Police and Massachusetts State Troopers, avert your eyes.
I get home from work at around 5:45pm. Des goes to sleep between 6:30-7pm. That's an hour and 15 minutes I get to spend with him after work.
You still with me, people?
That comes out to a total of 3 hours a day I get to spend with my baby, best case scenario. It's usually less. Some days I have to be in work early, some days I stay late.
Take yesterday, for example.
Lastnight I attended dinner with work folks. I was not super pscyhed about it, but the big bosses were going, and I had cancelled a couple times in the past so I felt obligated. Plus it's a free meal at a nice restaurant. I got the lobster mac 'n cheese, and it was heaven. That beats a tuna sandwich on semi-stale bread any day.
The problem with this scenario is that I wouldn't be home until well after Desmond's bed time. So I would see him in the morning before I left for work, and then not again until the next morning when he woke up.
OMG is he even going to remember me??
I cried on the drive to dinner, god help me. I called Tony who was feeding Des at the time. He put me on speaker so I could yell ridiculous things in baby talk (OOJA BOOJA) and Des stared at the phone. Tony tickled him so I could hear him laugh. And I just about lost it.
I know, I know. It was ONE DAY. And some people have it much worse. Some have jobs that require extensive travel (I can't imagine), or work at places who aren't flexible with time off for family (thankfully my company is).
But if my situation is one of the better cases, how are people OKAY with this?? Shouldn't this all be the other way around? Are society's priorities effed up, or are mine?
I know I just have to learn to deal with it. Such is life, right? If you want to live in this part of the country, own a home, and have a family, two incomes are almost always necessary.
Oh and friends? It's amazing I see them EVER. I love them dearly, but social gatherings have plummetted down the list of priorities at this point, under work, baby, husband, family, and sleep. I have tried to make it a point to get out at least once a month to have cocktails with adults and discuss grown-up things like the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills. Ohh that Camille is a piece of a work, huh?
I'm still learning how to balance it all. Sometimes I feel like as soon as I have something down, the universe adds a little bit more sand to the other side of the scale, throwing everything off. Part of life is learning how to adapt to constant changes. Basically, I need to do more yoga.
And looka that, Desmond grew another inch? Off to Target for new pants! That's kinda like yoga.
Showing posts with label friends. Show all posts
Showing posts with label friends. Show all posts
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Monday, October 25, 2010
Blogtoberfest 2010
Last Thursday Tony took over the bedtime routine for one night so that I could attend the 4th annual Boston Blogtoberfest. Hosted by the beautiful and talented (as most of us BTrees are) Jenny, of All Eyes on Jenny fame, it was a chance for local bloggers to get out from behind the screen and meet up face to face. There were cocktails, appetizers, impractical shoes, and adult conversation. Like a whole other planet. A fabulous, urban, lovely scented world free of primary-colored plastic toys and spit-up... although there may have been some caked on the collar of my dress.
I got to catch up with old friends, as well as meet many new ones. I also won booze! If the universe is sending me a message to get out more, it hath been received. Event sponsor Brew England (run by my good friends Sarah and Adam) raffled off gift baskets of their favorite beers. I've already imbibed in two and they were deeeelicious.
My night out with my fellow blog nerds made me realize two things:
1. I am hopelessly technologically challenged. This blog is as savvy as I get. I still use a non-smaht phone... phone calls and texting are the extent of its capabilities. Gagdets aren't my thing. I don't tweet and don't understand the purpose of Twitter. I'm sure there is one, it's just beyond my comprehension. I save my most visited links and blogs to my favorites in Internet Explorer... I know not of this Google Reader. Marcel tried to show me, but I was all:
It's okay. I like that disconnecting is easy because I don't carry the internet in my pocket at all times. I have no immediate aspirations of becoming more tech savvy. But I'm not stubborn about it. One day I may jump on board and get a phone from this decade or start up with the tweeting. Stranger things have happened.
2. I need to get out more. Regularly scheduled Momma's Nights Out are in the future. I'm not at a place right now where I need to get out of the house. I actually enjoy being home with my family. But I don't want to get into a rut where all I can talk about is BABY BABY BABY, and I never want to get to a point where I feel trapped or resentful that I'm home on another Saturday night. Like I said, I don't see that happening. But going out every once in a while will make me a more well-rounded person, and therefore a better mom and wife. Duh, right?
All in all, it was a great night out. Although there was not a whole lot of networking on my part... I think I passed out 3 of my DIY business cards (made with mailing labels and a cereal box, hello ghettooo). I still had fun chatting with peeps in a new bar with make-up on my face and a drink in hand. Very refreshing. It was like my version of a spa treatment.
I got to catch up with old friends, as well as meet many new ones. I also won booze! If the universe is sending me a message to get out more, it hath been received. Event sponsor Brew England (run by my good friends Sarah and Adam) raffled off gift baskets of their favorite beers. I've already imbibed in two and they were deeeelicious.
My night out with my fellow blog nerds made me realize two things:
1. I am hopelessly technologically challenged. This blog is as savvy as I get. I still use a non-smaht phone... phone calls and texting are the extent of its capabilities. Gagdets aren't my thing. I don't tweet and don't understand the purpose of Twitter. I'm sure there is one, it's just beyond my comprehension. I save my most visited links and blogs to my favorites in Internet Explorer... I know not of this Google Reader. Marcel tried to show me, but I was all:
It's okay. I like that disconnecting is easy because I don't carry the internet in my pocket at all times. I have no immediate aspirations of becoming more tech savvy. But I'm not stubborn about it. One day I may jump on board and get a phone from this decade or start up with the tweeting. Stranger things have happened.
2. I need to get out more. Regularly scheduled Momma's Nights Out are in the future. I'm not at a place right now where I need to get out of the house. I actually enjoy being home with my family. But I don't want to get into a rut where all I can talk about is BABY BABY BABY, and I never want to get to a point where I feel trapped or resentful that I'm home on another Saturday night. Like I said, I don't see that happening. But going out every once in a while will make me a more well-rounded person, and therefore a better mom and wife. Duh, right?
All in all, it was a great night out. Although there was not a whole lot of networking on my part... I think I passed out 3 of my DIY business cards (made with mailing labels and a cereal box, hello ghettooo). I still had fun chatting with peeps in a new bar with make-up on my face and a drink in hand. Very refreshing. It was like my version of a spa treatment.
Monday, October 18, 2010
Welcome Logan!
I just want to take a moment to say congratulations to our friends Jeannie and Chris on their new addition. Another little BTree Baby is in the world! Logan was born 10/17 at 1:39am.
Oh myyy... those cheeks. That face. I can't deal.
We are bursting with excitement for them. And I can't wait for Desi and Logan to be BFFs!
Oh myyy... those cheeks. That face. I can't deal.
We are bursting with excitement for them. And I can't wait for Desi and Logan to be BFFs!
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Dining Out
Tony and I used to go out to eat at least once a week. Usually more like two or three. We'd start the month all, "Yeah, let's plan our meals and stock the fridge and cook recipes and whatnot!" Bright eyed and full of good intentions. But then we'd get lazy, stare at the fridge, and be all, "Let's just go to Outback."
Nowadays we have a real reason to stay home every night. Financially and logistically, it just makes sense. And now that we're in the rhythm of cooking for ourselves, going out actually seems like a hassle!
But we still get out every once in a while. Usually for Mexican because it's not our favorite thing to cook. And I love a good margarita. As you can see:
Hello love. Oh, and hi there Desi boy.
Now that Des is sitting up and eating solids, he's very easy to entertain. Keep tossing puffies on his tray and he's a happy boy.
And getting out of the house gives him a chance to get his flirt on with the waitresses.
Come here often?
Just don't eyeball his food, or he will eyeball YOU.
Hey, we don't get out much.
Happy birthday to our friend, Danielle, aka DINK. She's joining the Dirty Thirty club today! And in celebration, she started up her blog again. Yaay!!
Nowadays we have a real reason to stay home every night. Financially and logistically, it just makes sense. And now that we're in the rhythm of cooking for ourselves, going out actually seems like a hassle!
But we still get out every once in a while. Usually for Mexican because it's not our favorite thing to cook. And I love a good margarita. As you can see:
Hello love. Oh, and hi there Desi boy.
Now that Des is sitting up and eating solids, he's very easy to entertain. Keep tossing puffies on his tray and he's a happy boy.
And getting out of the house gives him a chance to get his flirt on with the waitresses.
Come here often?
Just don't eyeball his food, or he will eyeball YOU.
Hey, we don't get out much.
Happy birthday to our friend, Danielle, aka DINK. She's joining the Dirty Thirty club today! And in celebration, she started up her blog again. Yaay!!
Sunday, September 26, 2010
The Early Days of Parenthood
Today I attended a baby shower for our dear friends Jeannie and Chris, who are expecting a baby boy in a matter of weeks. Their families were wonderful hosts and J+C raked in a ton of great stuff for baby.
It brought back a wave of memories and emotions for me. I remembered how I felt the day of my shower... Excited, uncomfortable, grateful, overwhelmed. I didn't realize that all those same emotions would multiply by eleventy billion once Des got here.
As a soon-to-be new parent, you get a TON of advice. Some solicited, some not. Inspired by Jeannie and Chris, these are some things that we learned along the way about the early days.
- Listen to advice, but don't take it as gospel (including this blog!). You have no idea how many times I heard, "Sleep when the baby sleeps!" Obviously sometimes you'll be sleeping when the baby is too. But many times, especially during the daylight hours, you will have to get shit done when the baby is sleeping. Don't freak out! Everything will be okay! Shocker, you're going to be sleep deprived. You will get through it.
- What works for some families, doesn't work for others. We were told by a close friend to sleep in shifts, or face rapid burn out. Sometimes this worked, but mostly both Tony and I would be up with the baby. Feedings, changings, rocking. Neither of us could sleep if the other was up. And this was fine for us. Tag team is just not how we work.
- Don't feel like you're offending someone by returning a gift, even/especially if it was on your registry. People swear by certain baby gear, but your baby might be all, "Oh hellllz no." EXCHANGE IT. There's always something else you'll need.
- If at any time someone asks if they can do anything to help, one word: FOOD. Gift certificates to local take-out joints, a variety of home cooked meals that freeze well, etc. You won't want to cook or go to the grocery store or leave that 10x10 area of your house for a while. You're gonna need some easy, healthy eats, especially if you're breastfeeding.
- Get some comfortable loungewear that also makes you feel human. Real clothes are out of the question. You'll still be healing and in some pain, and the baby will be spewing fluids left and right. Those ragged PJ's are cozy, but they'll get old after a while. I bought a couple pairs of stretchy yoga pants that are suitable to wear to bed as well as to Target if necessary.
- Take advantage of the hospital while you're there. The nurses encouraged us to keep the baby in our room. It was easier for feedings and it would get us all used to eachother. My older, wiser sisters WITH KIDS told us to send the baby to the nursery at least one night and do not feel guilty. We did the last night and by god, it was glorious. The nurse brought the baby in when he was hungry, and then back to the nursery after. Tony and I got like 5 solid hours of sleep. And we woke up refreshed and ready to take a baby home!
- I know people always say 'Enjoy every moment.' Debbie Downer's here to say, you will not enjoy every moment. It's not all magic and hugs and rainbows. Things might straight-up suck at times. But like I've said before, there's nothing like the light of a new day for a fresh perspective. Newborn cuddles are pretty great too.
Best of luck to Jeannie and Chris in this exciting time. I can say with absolute certainty that you guys will be amazing parents.
It brought back a wave of memories and emotions for me. I remembered how I felt the day of my shower... Excited, uncomfortable, grateful, overwhelmed. I didn't realize that all those same emotions would multiply by eleventy billion once Des got here.
As a soon-to-be new parent, you get a TON of advice. Some solicited, some not. Inspired by Jeannie and Chris, these are some things that we learned along the way about the early days.
- Listen to advice, but don't take it as gospel (including this blog!). You have no idea how many times I heard, "Sleep when the baby sleeps!" Obviously sometimes you'll be sleeping when the baby is too. But many times, especially during the daylight hours, you will have to get shit done when the baby is sleeping. Don't freak out! Everything will be okay! Shocker, you're going to be sleep deprived. You will get through it.
- What works for some families, doesn't work for others. We were told by a close friend to sleep in shifts, or face rapid burn out. Sometimes this worked, but mostly both Tony and I would be up with the baby. Feedings, changings, rocking. Neither of us could sleep if the other was up. And this was fine for us. Tag team is just not how we work.
- Don't feel like you're offending someone by returning a gift, even/especially if it was on your registry. People swear by certain baby gear, but your baby might be all, "Oh hellllz no." EXCHANGE IT. There's always something else you'll need.
- If at any time someone asks if they can do anything to help, one word: FOOD. Gift certificates to local take-out joints, a variety of home cooked meals that freeze well, etc. You won't want to cook or go to the grocery store or leave that 10x10 area of your house for a while. You're gonna need some easy, healthy eats, especially if you're breastfeeding.
- Get some comfortable loungewear that also makes you feel human. Real clothes are out of the question. You'll still be healing and in some pain, and the baby will be spewing fluids left and right. Those ragged PJ's are cozy, but they'll get old after a while. I bought a couple pairs of stretchy yoga pants that are suitable to wear to bed as well as to Target if necessary.
- Take advantage of the hospital while you're there. The nurses encouraged us to keep the baby in our room. It was easier for feedings and it would get us all used to eachother. My older, wiser sisters WITH KIDS told us to send the baby to the nursery at least one night and do not feel guilty. We did the last night and by god, it was glorious. The nurse brought the baby in when he was hungry, and then back to the nursery after. Tony and I got like 5 solid hours of sleep. And we woke up refreshed and ready to take a baby home!
- I know people always say 'Enjoy every moment.' Debbie Downer's here to say, you will not enjoy every moment. It's not all magic and hugs and rainbows. Things might straight-up suck at times. But like I've said before, there's nothing like the light of a new day for a fresh perspective. Newborn cuddles are pretty great too.
Best of luck to Jeannie and Chris in this exciting time. I can say with absolute certainty that you guys will be amazing parents.
Saturday, September 4, 2010
Fire Pit Fridays
Speaking of favorite things about summer...
This year we started a tradition of blazing up the fire pit on Friday nights. We invite friends in the area, and whoever can make it comes over if they can. Attendance has ranged from 3 (including me and Tony) to 15 people. Very low-key, chill, like most things in our lives. Bring brews and throw some burgers on the grill. Maybe we'll use plates, who knows. It's the weekend! Everyone's just lucky Tony's wearing pants.
Des even has his own fire pit chair! Although he's usually asleep for the bulk of the action. We'll teach him to hang with the gang in due time.
It's something to look forward to at the end of a long week, and a perfect way to enjoy a summer night with friends. On the really late nights (I'm talking like 12-1am... PARTY. ANIMALS.), it can make for a rough Saturday. Des is up around 5am, no matter how much I beg him, "Mommy's got a headache, baby boy. Just sleep a little longer." What's up with 7-month-olds these days? So unreasonable.
But the recovery day is totally worth it. The smell of smoke and bugspray, so many stars above, a cool breeze if we're lucky. And stories around the fire.
Fuel
Gibby and Des watching Daddy prep the pit.
Some day we hope to turn this area into a stone patio. Maybe get some chairs from this century. Times are tough, but we still have fun.
Chad Dixon. Adventurer, world traveler, dog whisperer.
Jaclyn's last night on the east coast, spent with family and friends at FPF.
We'll keep up these weekly pit get-togethers into the fall, I'm sure. But it is such a true summer activity. I'm looking forward to autumn, but I will miss these summer nights.
This year we started a tradition of blazing up the fire pit on Friday nights. We invite friends in the area, and whoever can make it comes over if they can. Attendance has ranged from 3 (including me and Tony) to 15 people. Very low-key, chill, like most things in our lives. Bring brews and throw some burgers on the grill. Maybe we'll use plates, who knows. It's the weekend! Everyone's just lucky Tony's wearing pants.
Des even has his own fire pit chair! Although he's usually asleep for the bulk of the action. We'll teach him to hang with the gang in due time.
It's something to look forward to at the end of a long week, and a perfect way to enjoy a summer night with friends. On the really late nights (I'm talking like 12-1am... PARTY. ANIMALS.), it can make for a rough Saturday. Des is up around 5am, no matter how much I beg him, "Mommy's got a headache, baby boy. Just sleep a little longer." What's up with 7-month-olds these days? So unreasonable.
But the recovery day is totally worth it. The smell of smoke and bugspray, so many stars above, a cool breeze if we're lucky. And stories around the fire.
Fuel
Gibby and Des watching Daddy prep the pit.
Some day we hope to turn this area into a stone patio. Maybe get some chairs from this century. Times are tough, but we still have fun.
Chad Dixon. Adventurer, world traveler, dog whisperer.
Jaclyn's last night on the east coast, spent with family and friends at FPF.
We'll keep up these weekly pit get-togethers into the fall, I'm sure. But it is such a true summer activity. I'm looking forward to autumn, but I will miss these summer nights.
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Braintree Roads, Take Me Home
This weekend Tony and I had our first real night out without the peanut to attend the wedding of one of my oldest friends, Diana. Nana (my mom) was nice enough to watch Des for the night while we partied it up in Plymouth with the old gang from Braintree. The wedding was fabulous, Des was a perfect gentleman for Nana, and the recovery day was not as bad as I thought it would be!
The gorgeous bride and groom.
Jenny, Sarah, Sarah, Jenn, sharing names and lookin' like Mardi Gras!
Us. Aint he handsome? Every day I pray that Des gets those dimples.
Ahh my friends. Some of the regulars are missing from this photo, but the spirit is always there. We've been through the awkward teen years, the wild party years, illnesses, break-ups, building our careers and familes. Through it all we are always there for eachother. Probably at a gay bar belting out Mariah.
The stories I have on these people would make a great pitch for the Real Housewives of Braintree. Bravo TV? Hook a sistah up.
The gorgeous bride and groom.
Jenny, Sarah, Sarah, Jenn, sharing names and lookin' like Mardi Gras!
Us. Aint he handsome? Every day I pray that Des gets those dimples.
Ahh my friends. Some of the regulars are missing from this photo, but the spirit is always there. We've been through the awkward teen years, the wild party years, illnesses, break-ups, building our careers and familes. Through it all we are always there for eachother. Probably at a gay bar belting out Mariah.
The stories I have on these people would make a great pitch for the Real Housewives of Braintree. Bravo TV? Hook a sistah up.
Thursday, April 8, 2010
Things I Thought I Knew
... but really, I had no idea. These are issues every new parent is warned about, but never truly understands until they are in the thick of it.
- The worry
News flash: Mom's worry. Story at 11! What I didn't realize is that the worry is CONSTANT. I even figured out a way to worry in my sleep, if that's possible. It's when I'm holding him, when he's napping, and when someone else has him. I worry about him bothering other people when he's fussy, and I worry about why he's fussy. Spitting up too much, not enough poops today, his head is too flat. Daycare, crawling, sticking his finger in a socket. First day of school, teen bullying, can't afford college. Anything, everything, and all at once. The best thing to do is to not stifle the worry, yet don't let it become all-consuming. Acknowledge it, accept it, and move on. And if it gets too much just punch it in the face. BAM!
- The laundry
I'm a freak of nature and actually enjoy doing laundry. I find it relaxing. That hasn't changed. But the drastic increase in volume is shocking, and the fact that it's caused by the addition of one tiny person to a household. Pre-baby, I would do 2-3 loads of laundry once every week or two. Nowadays I do about 3-5 loads every few days. It's due to the variety of baby fluids that we're all swimming in, and my newfound obsessive need to remove any dust and cat hair from all linens. Cuz OMG baby's hand is slightly reddish, it's a rash, he just touched that blanket, WASH IT! (See also: The worry)
- The importance of naps
I've finally sorta figured out Des's nap routine (which will now change tomorrow, I'm sure). They say for the first 4 months or so, they don't really have schedules. But Des is a great sleeper at night and has a pretty consistent nap schedule during the day. Unfortunately this week he developed a slight cough that was making it hard for him to stay asleep. So he kept missing or cutting short his long nap. Which made the rest of the day a nightmare for both of us. He wanted to be held constantly, so I paced the house carrying this 15 pound whining, whimpering mush in my arms for hours. As a result, I have scheduled a massage for this weekend. Momma needs it! And Desi needs his naps. Lesson learned.
- The love
The first few weeks I was in shock at this little squirmy, squeeling alien that appeared. I loved him to pieces, but it was a survival mission at that point. I don't know exactly when it happened, but now I can't stop kissing every inch of him. Tony pretends to speak for him, "Moooom, stoooop you're embarrassing meeee." But I can't help it. All his squeeks and smells and fluids... I can't get enough. He's like a drug. And then there's the smiles and coos... Ugh, my heart can't take it. It's all Desmond, my life, my love.
I don't even care how unflattering this photo of me is, that's how much I love him.
Note: Another Braintree baby is on the way! Congratulations to our friends Jeannie and Chris who are expecting their first in October! So so excited for you guys. :-)
- The worry
News flash: Mom's worry. Story at 11! What I didn't realize is that the worry is CONSTANT. I even figured out a way to worry in my sleep, if that's possible. It's when I'm holding him, when he's napping, and when someone else has him. I worry about him bothering other people when he's fussy, and I worry about why he's fussy. Spitting up too much, not enough poops today, his head is too flat. Daycare, crawling, sticking his finger in a socket. First day of school, teen bullying, can't afford college. Anything, everything, and all at once. The best thing to do is to not stifle the worry, yet don't let it become all-consuming. Acknowledge it, accept it, and move on. And if it gets too much just punch it in the face. BAM!
- The laundry
I'm a freak of nature and actually enjoy doing laundry. I find it relaxing. That hasn't changed. But the drastic increase in volume is shocking, and the fact that it's caused by the addition of one tiny person to a household. Pre-baby, I would do 2-3 loads of laundry once every week or two. Nowadays I do about 3-5 loads every few days. It's due to the variety of baby fluids that we're all swimming in, and my newfound obsessive need to remove any dust and cat hair from all linens. Cuz OMG baby's hand is slightly reddish, it's a rash, he just touched that blanket, WASH IT! (See also: The worry)
- The importance of naps
I've finally sorta figured out Des's nap routine (which will now change tomorrow, I'm sure). They say for the first 4 months or so, they don't really have schedules. But Des is a great sleeper at night and has a pretty consistent nap schedule during the day. Unfortunately this week he developed a slight cough that was making it hard for him to stay asleep. So he kept missing or cutting short his long nap. Which made the rest of the day a nightmare for both of us. He wanted to be held constantly, so I paced the house carrying this 15 pound whining, whimpering mush in my arms for hours. As a result, I have scheduled a massage for this weekend. Momma needs it! And Desi needs his naps. Lesson learned.
- The love
The first few weeks I was in shock at this little squirmy, squeeling alien that appeared. I loved him to pieces, but it was a survival mission at that point. I don't know exactly when it happened, but now I can't stop kissing every inch of him. Tony pretends to speak for him, "Moooom, stoooop you're embarrassing meeee." But I can't help it. All his squeeks and smells and fluids... I can't get enough. He's like a drug. And then there's the smiles and coos... Ugh, my heart can't take it. It's all Desmond, my life, my love.
I don't even care how unflattering this photo of me is, that's how much I love him.
Note: Another Braintree baby is on the way! Congratulations to our friends Jeannie and Chris who are expecting their first in October! So so excited for you guys. :-)
Friday, March 5, 2010
Birthday and A Day in the Life
This past weekend was my 30th birthday party. The milestone of the big 3-0 was barely a blip on my radar. Years past have hit me much harder. I think with each passing year, age means less and less to me. The 20's were great, but I'm ready to bring on the 30's!
The party was such a fun time with friends and family... Tony, my sisters, and my mom went above and beyond (yet again!) with everything and it was great to let loose for the first time in... 10, 11 months? Wow, it's been a while. Let's just say that this weekend I learned the art of 'pump and dump.'
(This is a Tiffany necklace engraved with the letter "D" given to me by my mom and sisters. I nearly cried when I saw it.)
Desmond was a perfect gentleman, if sleeping through most of the party makes someone a gentleman. This was also a chance for him to meet a lot of new people, including all of my Braintree friends. Des is the first baby for my group of friends, so all my girls and guys were pretty fascinated by the "hot new accessory of 2010." I really hope they can see more of him, once I become less of a hermit.
Braintrees!
I was asked by a curious friend what a typical day is for us. Although as soon as it seems we have some semblance of a 'schedule' down, things change LIKETHAT. But I do try to keep some sort of a routine throughout the day. So here it is. These are VERY rough estimates, obviously:
6-7am: Wake up, feed baby
7am-8am: Daddy watches Des while Mommy takes a shower and gets dressed. Yes, I do try to bathe and put on "normal" clothes every day, as opposed to sweats, even though I rarely leave the house. It makes me feel human.
8am-9am: Daddy leaves for work, Mommy and Des make our way downstairs for the day
9am-10am: Feed baby, try to make some coffee and breakfast for myself. Usually Des is good enough to sit in his bouncy chair and just hang out while I eat and check the internets. But sometimes he's fussy and I have to hold him the whole time.
10am-12pm: Des will usually nap for a good hour or so, during which time I will try to put minimal make-up on (see above re: feeling human), wash dishes, do laundry, clean house, etc. Today I updated my blog!
12pm-1pm: Feed baby, try to feed self
1pm-2pm: TBD...
2pm-3pm: Des and I will both usually take an afternoon nap in our bed upstairs. This is one of my favorite parts of the day! Cuddles and coos and rest. Nothing better.
3pm-4pm: Feed baby, hang out and wait for Daddy to get home.
4pm-5pm: Daddy gets home! Commence hand-off. Tony misses the baby so much during the day, I barely see the kid for the next couple hours.
5pm-6pm: Mommy and Daddy try to get some food.
6pm-7pm: Feed baby, start thinking about heading upstairs for the night. I know, we are party animals.
7pm-9pm: Head upstairs, give baby a bath and get him into fresh PJs, hang out as a family before bedtime.
Throughout the day I am usually listening to Sirius sattelite radio... Howard Stern in the morning (sorry Mom!), Acoustic or Classical late-morning and early afternoon, Country late afternoon. Des and I like to dance to country. :-) I'll watch TV sometimes too, but daytime TV is pretty awful. Unless there's a Real Housewives marathon. Still awful, but so addicting.
In between naps and feedings and diaper changes Des and I do a lot of walking around the house, "playing" on his activity mat, and making noises back and forth to eachother. But his interactions are still pretty minimal at this point.
Des usually wakes up 2-3 times during the night for feedings... lately just 2, which has been nice. Tony gives him a bottle for one of those feedings so I can get a good stretch of rest. Because he is not sleeping through the night yet, he's still in his bassinet at the end of our bed. We talk about transitioning him to the crib in his room, but I am putting up a fight. I didn't think I would be so reluctant, but I seriously want to cry when I think about it! Which is ridiculous. His crib is literally 20 feet away in the next room.
How I am going to leave him at daycare for 8 hours a day in a few weeks is beyond comprehension.
It's amazing how quickly the days and weeks have flown. It may seem like a boring schedule to some, but this has been the most joyful and fulfilling time of my life.
Happy 7 weeks of age, my little one!
The party was such a fun time with friends and family... Tony, my sisters, and my mom went above and beyond (yet again!) with everything and it was great to let loose for the first time in... 10, 11 months? Wow, it's been a while. Let's just say that this weekend I learned the art of 'pump and dump.'
(This is a Tiffany necklace engraved with the letter "D" given to me by my mom and sisters. I nearly cried when I saw it.)
Desmond was a perfect gentleman, if sleeping through most of the party makes someone a gentleman. This was also a chance for him to meet a lot of new people, including all of my Braintree friends. Des is the first baby for my group of friends, so all my girls and guys were pretty fascinated by the "hot new accessory of 2010." I really hope they can see more of him, once I become less of a hermit.
Braintrees!
I was asked by a curious friend what a typical day is for us. Although as soon as it seems we have some semblance of a 'schedule' down, things change LIKETHAT. But I do try to keep some sort of a routine throughout the day. So here it is. These are VERY rough estimates, obviously:
6-7am: Wake up, feed baby
7am-8am: Daddy watches Des while Mommy takes a shower and gets dressed. Yes, I do try to bathe and put on "normal" clothes every day, as opposed to sweats, even though I rarely leave the house. It makes me feel human.
8am-9am: Daddy leaves for work, Mommy and Des make our way downstairs for the day
9am-10am: Feed baby, try to make some coffee and breakfast for myself. Usually Des is good enough to sit in his bouncy chair and just hang out while I eat and check the internets. But sometimes he's fussy and I have to hold him the whole time.
10am-12pm: Des will usually nap for a good hour or so, during which time I will try to put minimal make-up on (see above re: feeling human), wash dishes, do laundry, clean house, etc. Today I updated my blog!
12pm-1pm: Feed baby, try to feed self
1pm-2pm: TBD...
2pm-3pm: Des and I will both usually take an afternoon nap in our bed upstairs. This is one of my favorite parts of the day! Cuddles and coos and rest. Nothing better.
3pm-4pm: Feed baby, hang out and wait for Daddy to get home.
4pm-5pm: Daddy gets home! Commence hand-off. Tony misses the baby so much during the day, I barely see the kid for the next couple hours.
5pm-6pm: Mommy and Daddy try to get some food.
6pm-7pm: Feed baby, start thinking about heading upstairs for the night. I know, we are party animals.
7pm-9pm: Head upstairs, give baby a bath and get him into fresh PJs, hang out as a family before bedtime.
Throughout the day I am usually listening to Sirius sattelite radio... Howard Stern in the morning (sorry Mom!), Acoustic or Classical late-morning and early afternoon, Country late afternoon. Des and I like to dance to country. :-) I'll watch TV sometimes too, but daytime TV is pretty awful. Unless there's a Real Housewives marathon. Still awful, but so addicting.
In between naps and feedings and diaper changes Des and I do a lot of walking around the house, "playing" on his activity mat, and making noises back and forth to eachother. But his interactions are still pretty minimal at this point.
Des usually wakes up 2-3 times during the night for feedings... lately just 2, which has been nice. Tony gives him a bottle for one of those feedings so I can get a good stretch of rest. Because he is not sleeping through the night yet, he's still in his bassinet at the end of our bed. We talk about transitioning him to the crib in his room, but I am putting up a fight. I didn't think I would be so reluctant, but I seriously want to cry when I think about it! Which is ridiculous. His crib is literally 20 feet away in the next room.
How I am going to leave him at daycare for 8 hours a day in a few weeks is beyond comprehension.
It's amazing how quickly the days and weeks have flown. It may seem like a boring schedule to some, but this has been the most joyful and fulfilling time of my life.
Happy 7 weeks of age, my little one!
Sunday, December 13, 2009
Slow progress, shower, and holiday traditions
Today marks 36 weeks of pregnancy. On one hand it seems like time is finally flying, and on the other hand... good lawd, this gestating thing takes for-evv-errr.
Say it, Squints.
At this point, every day is a little more uncomfortable than the one before. Which makes me nervous for the weeks to come. But the craziness of everything going on lately will hopefully make it go by quickly.
35 weeks
36 weeks
In the midst of all the craziness, our families threw us a beautiful baby shower and we are so grateful for all the work that went into it, as well as all the amazing gifts!
I didn't get many photos, as I was too busy stuffing my swolen face with delicious food and tallying up our loot. Class-ay.
Now that we're heading in to the home stretch, nights and weekends are mostly spent getting ready for baby. I've come to the conclusion that not everything has to be be D-U-N DONE RIGHT NOW OMG BABY'S COMING QUICK FREAK OUT!! As long as we have all the essentials ready, which we pretty much do, everything will be fiiiine. But sometimes the panic sets in and I get all crazy irrational (i.e., pregnant) and something might be chucked in the trash or bitten off at the neck. (Sorry Tone. Luvs ya.)
That this is one of the busiest times of the year, both at work and at home, adds a bit to the stress. Lots and lots of holiday parties, birthday celebrations, dinners, showers, doctor appointments... all in between work (which is nutso) and sleep. And taking a few breaths here and there.
Speaking of holiday parties, it's a Cawley family tradition to hold Christmas a few weeks early for the siblings and all our kids. It helps to make Christmas day not so CRAZY with the whole family around. It's typically held at my mom's house in Marshfield, but my sister Maureen stepped up and offered her house when mom caught The Bug a few days prior. No matter where it's held, it's always a great time. The kids love it, and us big kids love it too.
Crazy to think that next year there will be another little boy in the mix!
How many times did I use the word 'crazy' in this entry? Tons. That's about right.
Oh, we're also hosting Christmas Eve with Tony's fam this year. I'll be 38 weeks pregnant. Should I use that word again? I think I should... CRAZY.
Happy holidays!
Say it, Squints.
At this point, every day is a little more uncomfortable than the one before. Which makes me nervous for the weeks to come. But the craziness of everything going on lately will hopefully make it go by quickly.
35 weeks
36 weeks
In the midst of all the craziness, our families threw us a beautiful baby shower and we are so grateful for all the work that went into it, as well as all the amazing gifts!
I didn't get many photos, as I was too busy stuffing my swolen face with delicious food and tallying up our loot. Class-ay.
Now that we're heading in to the home stretch, nights and weekends are mostly spent getting ready for baby. I've come to the conclusion that not everything has to be be D-U-N DONE RIGHT NOW OMG BABY'S COMING QUICK FREAK OUT!! As long as we have all the essentials ready, which we pretty much do, everything will be fiiiine. But sometimes the panic sets in and I get all crazy irrational (i.e., pregnant) and something might be chucked in the trash or bitten off at the neck. (Sorry Tone. Luvs ya.)
That this is one of the busiest times of the year, both at work and at home, adds a bit to the stress. Lots and lots of holiday parties, birthday celebrations, dinners, showers, doctor appointments... all in between work (which is nutso) and sleep. And taking a few breaths here and there.
Speaking of holiday parties, it's a Cawley family tradition to hold Christmas a few weeks early for the siblings and all our kids. It helps to make Christmas day not so CRAZY with the whole family around. It's typically held at my mom's house in Marshfield, but my sister Maureen stepped up and offered her house when mom caught The Bug a few days prior. No matter where it's held, it's always a great time. The kids love it, and us big kids love it too.
Crazy to think that next year there will be another little boy in the mix!
How many times did I use the word 'crazy' in this entry? Tons. That's about right.
Oh, we're also hosting Christmas Eve with Tony's fam this year. I'll be 38 weeks pregnant. Should I use that word again? I think I should... CRAZY.
Happy holidays!
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Long awaited update
Happy Thanksgiving everyone!
It seems that every year we have more and more for which to be thankful. This year is above and beyond the norm. Not to get all corny, but we've been through a lot recently and it's made us realize how lucky we are. As Tony put it so simply lastnight, "I like my life."
So in honor of the holiday, and in a lame attempt to summarize what's been going on with us over the past month and a half, here is what we are especially thankful for:
1. Tony turning 30 and all of the friends and family who helped us celebrate:
It was our first real party in the new house, and I was so preoccupied with being the hostess that I got very few pictures. But I assure you, it looked beautiful. Tony had a slide show of 'before' pictures looping on the TV and it helped to show everyone the amount of work that has gone into our home over the past 10 months. So many compliments for us and the boys at Choice Woodworking, Inc. And the party was a great time also. We fit about 50 people into our open and airy space. We couldn't have asked for a better way to ring in Tony's 30th year. And I am eternally grateful for everyone who helped me out before/during/after the party, as I wasn't exactly in top form in my delicate state.
2. The growing Butterball basting in my bellah:
I am almost 34 weeks at this point and it's absolutely surreal. I can't say it's been an easy road, but we're headed into the home stretch now and I'm feeling pretty good. We're not nervous yet, just excited and anxious. We want to meet our little man! As they say on St. John, baby soon come. :-)
3. Having such a big amazing family with lots of kids, and reaping the benefits!
This will be grandchild #9 for my mom and Tony's family has a couple little ones as well, so we've been lucky enough to be given many hand-me-downs... Furniture, decor, clothes (for me AND the baby), etc. We're not ones to need everything to be new and fresh. In fact, I kinda like the idea of using items that have been lived in and passed down with our families. We're still working on getting the nursery together. Once we do we'll post plenty of photos for the ol' blogosphere.
4. And lastly, we are thankful for the 15 years and hundreds of memories with our beloved Barkley, who went up to doggy heaven just last week.
He was a good dog, our best friend and first 'baby.' We miss him terribly... the house doesn't feel the same without him in it. But it was almost like he wanted to give us time to get ready for our human baby. So thanks, buddy. For all the happy times and for making us learn to work as a team when things got tough toward the end. Hopefully we're a little more prepared for this time in our lives because we were lucky enough to take care of you.
So have a great holiday everyone. Remember to tell those around you how much you love them, even your pets. And thanks to all for reading! We'll try to be better with the updates.
It seems that every year we have more and more for which to be thankful. This year is above and beyond the norm. Not to get all corny, but we've been through a lot recently and it's made us realize how lucky we are. As Tony put it so simply lastnight, "I like my life."
So in honor of the holiday, and in a lame attempt to summarize what's been going on with us over the past month and a half, here is what we are especially thankful for:
1. Tony turning 30 and all of the friends and family who helped us celebrate:
It was our first real party in the new house, and I was so preoccupied with being the hostess that I got very few pictures. But I assure you, it looked beautiful. Tony had a slide show of 'before' pictures looping on the TV and it helped to show everyone the amount of work that has gone into our home over the past 10 months. So many compliments for us and the boys at Choice Woodworking, Inc. And the party was a great time also. We fit about 50 people into our open and airy space. We couldn't have asked for a better way to ring in Tony's 30th year. And I am eternally grateful for everyone who helped me out before/during/after the party, as I wasn't exactly in top form in my delicate state.
2. The growing Butterball basting in my bellah:
I am almost 34 weeks at this point and it's absolutely surreal. I can't say it's been an easy road, but we're headed into the home stretch now and I'm feeling pretty good. We're not nervous yet, just excited and anxious. We want to meet our little man! As they say on St. John, baby soon come. :-)
3. Having such a big amazing family with lots of kids, and reaping the benefits!
This will be grandchild #9 for my mom and Tony's family has a couple little ones as well, so we've been lucky enough to be given many hand-me-downs... Furniture, decor, clothes (for me AND the baby), etc. We're not ones to need everything to be new and fresh. In fact, I kinda like the idea of using items that have been lived in and passed down with our families. We're still working on getting the nursery together. Once we do we'll post plenty of photos for the ol' blogosphere.
4. And lastly, we are thankful for the 15 years and hundreds of memories with our beloved Barkley, who went up to doggy heaven just last week.
He was a good dog, our best friend and first 'baby.' We miss him terribly... the house doesn't feel the same without him in it. But it was almost like he wanted to give us time to get ready for our human baby. So thanks, buddy. For all the happy times and for making us learn to work as a team when things got tough toward the end. Hopefully we're a little more prepared for this time in our lives because we were lucky enough to take care of you.
So have a great holiday everyone. Remember to tell those around you how much you love them, even your pets. And thanks to all for reading! We'll try to be better with the updates.
Friday, February 20, 2009
Get into it.
Photo credit Jenny Frazier, taken at our reception in Marina Bay.
This is our friend Danielle, aka Dink. She's kind of a big deal.
If you're reading this, you probably already know... But tomorrow there will be a benefit show in her honor. She has been battling lupus for the past 12-odd years, and this last one has been a doozy. Countless ER visits, hospital stays, surgeries, cancer mis-diagnoses... and not enough answers. The benefit is to help offset the costs of all this mess, and maybe lift some spirits at the same time. It's called Dinkstock. Get into it.
Click for more info.
I should also mention that Dink is the reason Tony and I met. So she's a legend around these parts.
Love you Dinkster!
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