TBT #10

Continuing with the Christmas theme - this is one of my favourite old Christmas songs. It is of course from the Christmas special Rudolph (you may have guessed by now that I really like that Christmas special). But regardless of that, I also think Burl Ives has a great voice for carols. Funny enough, until now (ya I just googled him) I had no idea what Burl Ives looked like. I guess whenever I hear him singing I just picture that jolly snowman from the cartoon. In case you are wondering what he looked like (he has been deceased since 1995) I have included a picture. You have to admit though, he did bear an uncanny resemblance to his snowman character.

And in case you haven't already figured out today's song, it is Holly Jolly Christmas by Mr. Ives himself.

Happy Chanukah

So today is the first day of Chanukah or Hanukkah and while I am not Jewish, Adam Sandler is and I like Adam Sandler. And I really like his Hanukkah songs (all 3 parts). So this is for all of my Jewish readers and my not Jewish readers who may feel a tiny bit envious that they are not Jewish (at least for the next 10 minutes). Happy Hanukkah!

My Anti-Scrooge List

So I woke up this morning feeling blah.

I'm talking really blah.

If Scrooge was here (before his big transformation), the two of us would make a great pair.

I don't particularly want to feel this way, what with there only being 5 sleeps left until Christmas. So, I have decided that I need to find a way to get back that 'loving feeling' and get into the Christmas spirit. For me, it can be as simple as wrapping gifts. Strange, I know. But there is something about wrapping stuff up in pretty paper that I find calming and peaceful. I also like to imagine everyone's reaction when they open their gifts. Of course, I realize that wrapping gifts isn't everyone's idea of fun (my hubby uses the charity wrappers at the mall every year), so I thought I would come up with a list of ways to help all you scrooges out there get back into the Christmas spirit! Here is my Top 10 Anti-Scrooge list:

#1. Peppermint kisses - Wow are these little chocolates tasty and they kinda resemble little candy canes just in chocolate kiss form. Yum!

#2. Animated Christmas specials - might I suggest either Rudolph or Prep & Landing (my personal favourites)

#3. Wish everyone you meet a "Merry Christmas" and mean it! Sometimes the best way to get back your joy is to try and make others happy.

#4. Mistletoe - Hang it somewhere, carry it around with you, just be sure to choose your 'victims' wisely. Because really, who wants a kiss from their great uncle Harry? Ew.

#5. Bake some cookies (Christmasy shapes are always nice) and then eat them right out of the oven with a nice cup of hot chocolate (don't forget the marshmallows!). This can also be used for beating the winter blues as well.

#6. Drive north until you reach snow. I know I, personally am a huge fan of white Christmases and it can sometimes be hard to get into the season without some of that white stuff covering the ground. For those of you who are really far south you may want to consider flying instead of driving. And once you reach the snow? Go for a horse and sleigh ride - just make sure the horse is outfitted with jingle bells.

#7.  PNP - a.k.a. The Portable North Pole (http://www.portablenorthpole.tv/prepare-a-message) - A cool website where you can go create and send Santa videos to all your friends and family. They even have options between child and adult and naughty and nice. Hey, if you want to, you can even send yourself one!  Because really, who doesn't like a message from Santa?!?

#8. Spiked eggnog - Make homemade or buy it from the store. The percentage of rum to eggnog should be directly proportional to the amount of blah that you are feeling (more blah = more rum).

#9. Christmas lights - It is the only time of year that you can drive around and see your city lit up in a multitude of colours (unless you live in Vegas) so take advantage. I love seeing how people decorate their houses. There is a little cul-de-sac in my city where most of the houses would give the Griswold's a run for their money. There is even one house that has several signs out front warning of high voltage! (now that is some serious Christmas spirit!)

#10. Give to those less fortunate - if I can get serious for a minute, I think there is no greater way to truly feel the essence of Christmas than by helping others in need. Be it a gift for the angel tree, helping out in a soup kitchen, donating canned goods, adopting a family for Christmas or giving to some amazing project like The Stocking Project, there is nothing that warms the heart faster than giving.

Of course, none of these suggestions will truly work unless you WANT to get back in the Christmas spirit. I'm not looking to convert anyone who truly dislikes the holiday, just trying to spread some of my own Christmas cheer! And you know, after making that list, I do feel better :)

WILT #11

Today I thought I would share with you my most favourite Christmas song ever. Josh Groban's 'Believe'. It is of course the song from The Polar Express, and while it is a good movie, it is not the reason why I love the song so much. There is just something about this song, every time I hear it, I can't help but feel happy inside. For those 3-4 minutes, I feel like a little kid again, when Christmas seemed especially magical and it was easy to believe that anything is possible. It makes me think about how Christmas is really about being with the people you love and sharing in the joy that Christmas brings.

Home Renos - Air Ducts, Outlets, Insulation - oh my!

Day 9

They took off the porch overhang. The cool thing is that part of the overhang had been damaged in a wind storm several months ago and we hadn't been able to fix it and now we don't have to!

Day 10

Lots of people were in and out of our house all day, including the electrician. He asked me where I wanted electrical outlets and phone jacks in our new rooms (not the easiest thing to decide when all the walls aren't up and there is no furniture). But we are all wired! It is weird to have so many strangers moving through your house, I can't even say that I met everyone so it is entirely possible that some random person just decided to come in and take a look around. Ha ha! I have also been spending a great deal of time trying to stay out of everyone's way.

This is the view from my future bedroom.

This is the framing for my future walk in closet (picture me smiling).

In the afternoon, Theo put on his little home depot pretend hard hat, grabbed his tools and asked me if he could go outside and help the workers because there was "a lot of work to do". He looked so cute and he wanted to be outside with them so badly, so I went and asked the guys if that would be okay. We are lucky because the guys who are working on our house are super nice and really great with the boys. They immediately said 'sure' and so Theo went outside to 'supervise'.

Theo with his home depot tools and hard hat

My little supervisor

At the end of Day 10 we had a new porch overhang! I am amazed at how different the outside of our house looks already.

Day 11

The worst part about the home renovations has been how cold it is in our house right now. Our poor little furnace has been working overtime and I'm a little scared to see what our heating bill will be like for this month. Needless to say I was happy to see them putting in the air ducts, though unfortunately they are not attached to the furnace yet.

This was also the day that they took out our bathroom window and bordered it up.

The next day, we had a delivery of roof shingles, which meant another large cool vehicle in our driveway. (My boys are digging all this construction stuff)

Day 12

Another large vehicle, this time delivering insulation. At the end of this day, our walls are a lovely pink candy floss and our garage looks like something out of an alien movie.

And our roof has a lovely black 'coat' on it to protect it from the rain. Yes, I did say rain (and to think it is the middle of December!) - it rained all Wednesday night and into Thursday. It was truly miserable weather! Of course that did not stop another large vehicle from coming and delivering the dry wall.

Even though the rain delayed the roofers from coming on Thursday, I did have visitors - two different inspectors showed up to check the electrical wiring that was done and the insulation. Which of course both passed.

Day 13

The workers were back to put up the drywall. Now the rooms are really starting to take shape...especially my closet! Now along with the cold I also have to deal with the incredible amount of dust and dirt that is accumulating very quickly in my house!

Our master bedroom

My office

I can't really complain too much though, our builder has been absolutely amazing so far! He even showed up one day with a Christmas gift for us (awhhh).

TBT #9

The 12 Days of Christmas.

I'm sure most people have heard the original version of this popular song - the one with the partridge in the pear tree. And while it is a lovely song, I much prefer the funnier versions! After all, the holidays can be stressful and laughter is a great way to relieve some of that stress. The first song is by Allan Sherman and is actually the '12 Gifts of Christmas'.

Next up is the '12 Pains of Christmas by Bob Rivers. Again, for those who aren't a big fan of all the added stresses of the holidays, this is a great one for you!

This next one I threw in here because my two boys thought it was funny. It's the Madagascar Penguins and their version.




Then there is the comedian Jeff Foxworthy's version, also known as the 12 Redneck Days of Christmas.

And finally, my personal favourite Bob And Doug Mackenzie's 12 Days of Christmas. And yes, I may be a tad biased because they are after all Canadian! :)

Letters to Theo - November 22, 2006

Wednesday, November 22, 2006

Dear Theo,

Yet again when I showed up just before 11:30 they were in doing rounds so I couldn't see you right away. Eventually a nurse did bring you out to me, but she didn't bring my breastshield so I couldn't nurse you at first. I knew you were hungry though because you started sucking on your thumb with the rest of your fingers pressed against your face - I have to admit, it was a very cute look. After I finally got to nurse you, I weighed you and I was thrilled to see that you had gotten 35 cc's (you now take in a total of 44 cc's).

While I am nursing you I have also started burping you as well, in an effort to get you to take in more. I am so proud of your accomplishments thus far, but at the same time I really want to have you reach the goal of taking your whole feed from me because once you start doing that, you are on your way to coming home!

Already I watched one mother leave with her little one and I know of two other mothers who are bunking in right now who should be leaving by tomorrow. The mother of the twins is also next up for bunking in. Needless to say, the back room of the NICU is looking a lot different. There were only about 6 or 7 babies there this afternoon. It is a lot quieter and more relaxing being there. And to be honest I am really happy for the mothers who got to bring their babies home. I guess I am also a little envious because I want that to be me, but hopefully in just over a week we will be bringing you home too. Until then, I will live pretty much day to day. Some days are good days and some are not so good. Today was a good day.

For your second feed you took in 30 cc's and once again I felt a sense of accomplishment. After your second feed I had a doctor come in and talk to me about the RSV vaccine and she asked me some questions to see if you qualify for getting it. I wasn't sure I wanted you to have the vaccine so I lied on one of the questions. When they asked me if anyone in the family has eczema, I said no - but of course both myself and your Uncle Jim have it. What I wasn't aware of was the fact that my having eczema was a good thing in this case and probably would have exempted you from having the vaccine. However, that not being the case, you did qualify and after listening to the nurse talk about RSV and what it does to babies and after talking to your father, we decided it was best to go ahead and get you vaccinated.

So this afternoon, you got your first shot. They give it to you in your leg muscle and I am told that it really hurts. I opted to hold you while you got your shot, though admittedly it was hard to see you in so much pain and screaming out like that. You were a brave little guy though because you weren't upset for long.

For your final feed of the day, you took in another 30 cc's. I also noticed that when the nurse weighed you last night you had gained about 50 grams and now weighed 4 pounds 14 ounces. Hopefully you will continue to gain weight and do well at feeds and we will be able to take you home sooner rather than later.

Tonight we saw your dad's cousin Kyle. He is going to be your Godfather. We officially asked him tonight and he was totally thrilled and honoured. One day the two of you will get to meet each other. I'm sure you will like him. And I just know he will adore you too!

Love,
mommy

The New - Week 6 (Sugaring)

So I know technically I missed last week - sadly plans don't always go the way you want them too. But in all fairness, my week 5 New was kind of 2 New things at the same time :)

But this week we are back on track!

And what, you might ask, am I doing New this week?

Sugaring!

And no, I am not talking about putting lots of sugar on cookies and cakes (though it is the holidays and that would make sense). No, I am talking about the type of 'sugar' you put on your body to help rip out all of your hair! (Hmmm, the dessert thing is sounding really good at this point). Now, as you may recall (if you've been following my little blog), several weeks ago I got my legs waxed for the first time. And I didn't find it to be painful. Well, I have decided to take it up a notch (literally) and so I will be sugaring my bikini region. (Eeek!)

Now don't expect any before and after photos - this is not that kind of blog!!

For my first sugaring experience, I went to Amanda from BARE by Braun. I had never met Amanda before this and within 5 minutes of meeting her I was naked from the waist down. (Hi, nice to meet you) While I have had the experience of relative strangers seeing my private parts (it's kind of inevitable when you've been pregnant and had surgery in that region), I can't say that it is something that I have really gotten used to.

I wish I could tell you that the whole experience was quick and painless, but that last part would be a HUGE lie! Oh. My. God. Did it ever hurt!! My skin was so red and sore afterwards. Why do women do this to themselves?? AND pay for it?  I'm sure I will appreciate the results more tomorrow and hopefully for at least the next couple of weeks (It does last that long right??). And I'm pretty sure my husband will also appreciate the results.

Will I do it again? At the moment, I want to say 'hell no' but ask me again once the memory of the pain is no longer fresh and I might change my answer. I did say might right? I believe I could definitely get my legs sugared and not even bat an eye at the pain. But I'm not so sure about doing the bikini region again. I also believe that unless this lasts for at least a few weeks, it is definitely not worth the pain (or the money) and I will go back to using my relatively painless Venus razor.

WILT #10

Normally I like the more traditional Christmas music, but every once in a while, an original Christmas song comes along that I find myself drawn to. This is just such a song. It is a Christmas song that doesn't sound like a Christmas song. It's also not your typical happy Christmas song. If you listen to the words it's actually about losing the one you love and hoping that by some miracle those Christmas lights can bring her back and take away all your troubles. So I guess in some ways it is also about hope. And there is something about this time of year, you can't help but believe a little more. I hope that you get to be with the one you love this Christmas.

Here is Coldplay with 'Christmas Lights'

Letters to Theo - November 21, 2006

Tuesday, November 21, 2006

Dear Theo,

Once again I showed up at the NICU at about 11:30 and had to wait to see you because they were having another meeting. When I did finally get to see you I was greeted by another wonderful surprise - the heat is no longer on in your incubator! I was so happy! Every accomplishment brings you a little closer to being ready to come home.

For your first feed you once again took in 30 cc's . For your second feed you didn't do quite as well as you fell asleep - you only got 15 cc's (still pretty good), but I was still happy.

Once again your father came back to the hospital with me tonight. When we got there he gave you a bath and once again you pretty much slept through the whole thing. After your bath your dad was going to put you back into your incubator but I told him to bring you into the breastfeeding room and snuggle with you while I pumped. I think he was really glad that he did. Because of his schedule, your daddy doesn't get to see you nearly as often as I do. I know that he misses you terribly.

The only disappointing thing about today was that for your last feed, your dad and I forgot to weigh you and it seemed like you did really well too. Maybe we'll just believe that you did :)

I was thinking today about what is normal and how what isn't normal becomes normal. Being in the NICU certain things that aren't 'normal' become normal: hooking and unhooking your baby from a heart monitor; changing them inside their incubator; and weighing them before you feed them. Even their size begins to seem normal. When your father and I came back to the hospital we saw a large baby in the NICU and your dad made a comment about how big the baby was compared to the other preemies. It reminded me of this baby that I saw at Francesca's baby shower. The baby looked so huge to me, especially the baby's head. I'm still not sure if the baby was bigger than normal or not.

Needless to say I am looking forward to getting you home so that we can create a new normal.

Love,
mommy

Home Renos - Bring on the Crane

It is the most surreal feeling to stand in your dining room, look up and see sky!

But that is exactly what I did on Day 4 of our home renos.

I'm happy to say that they did start rebuilding our dining room ceiling by the end of Day 4.
 

I'm trying to ignore what they did to my beautiful walls and not think about how long it took me to paint them!  

On Day 5, the workers starting moving upwards and by the end of the day, our garage had some new height above it!

 Day 5 also resulted in a new hole in our wall.


Before

After






On Day 6 we actually got to climb up the ladder and take a look around at our future bedroom and office. It was cool to be up there walking around and trying to picture what it will look like.

This will be our future master bedroom

This will be my future office

Mother Nature was very uncooperative after that. On the weekend it rained and it was so loud on the tarp. But it was the surprise we found Monday morning that really had me mad at Momma N. I came downstairs to find a huge puddle of water in our dining room and the ceiling leaking. My husband and I immediately sprung into action. We found a couple of buckets for the drips and a bunch of old towels to lay on the floor. Joe sent a text to Bobby our builder and he came out and fixed the tarp, mopped up the water on the floor above and in our dining room. Later that evening, I noticed there was another drip coming from the crack between the plywood in our upstairs hole in the wall - so we put down another bucket and all was well.

The rain delayed the builders from doing any work on Monday or Tuesday, but on Wednesday (Day 7) the real excitement began!

It all started when a large yellow crane pulled up into our driveway! Definitely not something you see everyday!  My oldest son had really been looking forward to this part but when the crane arrived he was still in school. After a short chat with my hubby, we both agreed that I should call the school and go get him. Both the school secretary and Theo's teacher completely understood and had no problems letting him leave early - I mean how often do you have a crane in your driveway??

 

By the end of Day 8 our addition was starting to take shape! I actually took the next couple of pictures the next morning during our first snowfall of the season.

Our house from the front

Our house from the back

 It is pretty amazing to me how much work has been accomplished in just 8 days (though those 8 days of work have been spread over 2 weeks - Grrr mother nature!) If only it weren't so cold in our house

TBT #8

I fondly remember this song from my childhood, though the actual song dates back long before I was born (1958 to be exact). This is the Chipmunks from the era before they had all the fancy digital effects. You can tell the song is old just by the toys the Chipmunks are asking for: a plane that loops the loop and a hula hoop. Such a fun Christmas carol to sing along to too. Though I never could understand why Dave was always so angry.

Hope this brings back some good memories for you! Here is Alvin and the Chipmunks with the original Christmas Song.

Tis the Season for Animated Christmas Specials (Part 2)

Now we move from claymation to some serious animation. Of course, we have to start with my favourite!

Disney's Prep & Landing

This is one of the coolest animated Christmas specials that I have ever seen. It has fast become a family favourite at our house. It takes a look behind the scenes at how through the help of elves (known as prep & landing) Santa gets in and out of all those houses. It is the kind of show that both adults and children will enjoy equally. I'm not going to tell you the plot, since I really think you should watch it yourself. Just be sure to watch for my favourite part "Rev up the engines!"

Prep & Landing: Naughty vs Nice

This is the sequel to Prep & Landing that just came out this year. I have to say that it follows the trend of many sequels in that it is not nearly as good as the first one. It does have some cute moments though so it is not a total right off.  In this story, Lanny & Wayne, team up with one of the coal elves to retrieve classified North Pole technology that has fallen into the wrong hands.  

Shrek the Halls

This one features all of your favourite characters from the Shrek movies with a Christmasy twist. It's another show that adults will get a few chuckles over as well. In this special, Shrek attempts to give Fiona a special Christmas, which is inevitably 'ruined' by all of their friends. Several versions of the Night Before Christmas are also told by the characters who put their own spins on it. All in all, a funny special the whole family can enjoy.

Little Spirit: Christmas in New York

This is the story of a boy named Leo who moves to Manhattan and loses his dog. Little Spirit (some strange glowing creature) shows up and takes him on a journey where Leo meets some interesting New Yorkers and is eventually reunited with his dog. The whole story is told by a friendly cabbie who looks uncannily like Danny DeVito.

Yes, Virginia

Although I love comical Christmas specials, I am also a fan of ones with a special message. In this one, a young girl, Virginia, asks that ever popular question "Is there a Santa Claus?" Her quest for an answer leads her to write a letter to the New York Sun newspaper. At the end of the show, you (much like Virginia) can't help but become a believer. (If you aren't, all I have to say is Bah humbug!)


The Flight Before Christmas

A reindeer who can't fly, but wants to be like his father (one of the 'flying forces') who deserted his mother  - that's the premise of this special. And who better to find as a flight teacher but a flying squirrel. In true reindeer fashion, our hero must also travel to the North Pole to aid Santa Claus and his fleet of reindeer. Only unlike Rudolph, it is not fog that is the problem but a pack of mean wolves who plot to eat Santa's reindeer.

The Polar Express

Yes, I know this is more of a movie than a Christmas special, but it is a good movie. The first time I saw it was in the theatre, it was in 3D and had very cool visual effects. If you're not familiar with the story, it is based on a book about a little boy who rides a train (called the Polar Express) up to the North Pole where he gets to meet the jolly man in red himself. The interesting part of the movie is trying to figure out which characters are played by Tom Hanks (since so many of them are).

For those who are Jewish, there is also the Hanukkah special 'Eight Crazy Nights', but I have to admit I wasn't a huge fan of the story line. Normally I like Adam Sandler, but I just couldn't get into this one.

And that concludes my Animated Christmas Specials list. Check your local listings for times they are airing. I myself will be setting my DVR so that I can watch the ones that I am sure to miss and also so I can play my favourites over and over again throughout the holiday season. I love Christmas!




Tis the Season for Animated Christmas Specials! (Part 1)

I can't speak for anyone else, but I grew up watching Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer every Christmas and even today I still think it is one of the best holiday shows ever.

And since it is that time of year when holiday shows start to dominate the TV schedule, I thought I would help you out by pointing out some of my favourite animated Christmas specials (the old ones and the new ones).

Let's start with the Classics:

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer

This claymation classic is one of my favourites - I mean who doesn't love a story about misfits? An elf that wants to be a dentist and a reindeer with a shiny nose team-up with their friend Yukon Cornelius to defeat the Abominable Snowman. It even has a love story. Makes me want to break out the old mistletoe :)

Santa Claus is Comin' to Town

Ever wonder how Santa Claus became Santa Claus - from the delivering of gifts right down to the red suit? Well, it's simple really - just watch this classic and you'll never wonder again!

The Little Drummer Boy

(And you thought it was just a song!) Continuing with our vintage claymation - this is the story of an orphaned little boy who hated humanity and preferred the company of his animal friends. He meets three wise men and his path leads him to the baby Jesus, and the realization that hating others is wrong... and of course there is some significant drum playing that follows.

Mickey's Christmas Carol

I've always loved the story of the Christmas Carol and Disney does a nice job of it. With Mickey Mouse as the humble Bob Cratchit, Jiminy Cricket as the Ghost of Christmas Past and Scrooge McDuck as, well, Scrooge - it's hard not to fall in love with this story about the importance of giving.

Dr. Seuss' The Grinch Who Stole Christmas

He's green, he's grouchy, he's the Grinch! Can I just say that Dr. Seuss has one very active imagination. All of his interesting characters come to life in this classic. And who didn't want to be a Who when they were little?  It's a great story if you can over-look the animal cruelty (I always felt so sorry for his little dog Max). It is a testament that even the worst of us can change, with a little kindness and love.

A Charlie Brown Christmas

Our lovable Charlie Brown finds himself depressed at Christmas time by all of the commercialisation being made of this holiday. Even his own dog, Snoopy falls prey to it. In an effort to find the real meaning of Christmas, Charlie is encouraged to direct a play about the nativity. This leads him to go searching for the perfect tree - a small, real one. In the end, Charlie's friends show him the real meaning of Christmas when they help decorate his little tree.

Frosty the Snowman

Now I have to admit, I have never really been a huge fan of this snowman classic, but I know that there are a lot of people who are. So, I thought I would include it - just in case it is one of your favourites.





WILT #9

While some people may enjoy travelling over Christmas, I am a complete homebody when it comes to this special holiday. There is no where I would rather be than here at home, surrounded by my family. As I mentioned earlier, I am a huge Christmas music fan and I think that some of the best songs are song by the natural crooners of this world - and this guy is no exception.

Michael Buble - I'm proud to claim him as a Canadian

I'm sure this song will mean different things to different people - I think of all those who won't be able to be home with their loved ones this Christmas and I send out a little prayer that they can return to their families soon.

But, if you're looking for me on the 25th...I'll be at home.

Here's 'I'll Be Home for Christmas'



The New - Week 5 (NFL Game)

N   F   L

Football

Admittedly I have never really gotten into the sport...but all that could be changing.

Today for the first time ever I went to see a live NFL game!

Buffalo Bills vs Tennessee Titans

(I have to confess, when I heard the Bills were playing the Titans I had no idea which city the Titans were from and I had to google it to find out)

Now, I'm not a huge fan of watching outdoor sports when it is cold outside. And make no mistake about it, Buffalo in December is cold! So had my husband simply asked me if I wanted to go see a NFL game at this time of year, I normally would have said no. However, my husband added two beautiful words to his offer:

Box Seats

Hmmm, my first ever NFL game and I get to stay warm?

I'm in!

This was also a Casino VIP trip (yes, my hubby is a bit of a gambler) which meant we got shuttled down to the stadium. And when we arrived at our suite, they had free food and drinks for us!

View from my seat

The first thing I have to say is that Americans really love their football. It was quite amazing to see all the Bills jerseys, hats, sweaters and jackets - not to mention all the painted faces, crazy hair and other fan paraphernalia. I was also impressed to see the entire crowd do the wave during the 3rd quarter. It truly is a great atmosphere!

I have to be honest, even though I wasn't entirely sure of all the football rules (I'm more of a soccer girl myself) I really found myself starting to get into the game. For 3 hours I actually felt like a Bills fan. And I'm starting to understand what my neighbours to the south see in the game - which actually seems like more of an event. After all, the game itself lasts for about 3 hours. Plus, I'm also told that the real experience is all of the tailgating that happens before and after the game (which is something we didn't get to do this time around). Looks like I have something else to add to my New list - tailgate party! (but I'm definitely going somewhere warmer to do it!! ha ha)

So my Week 5 something New turned out to be more like two something News - live NFL game AND watching a sporting event from Box Seats! And I had a blast! So maybe I am becoming a little bit of a football fan...now I just need to figure out which team to cheer for :)

Letters to Theo - November 20, 2006

Monday, November 20, 2006

Dear Theo,

When I got to the NICU today around 11:20, there was a meeting going on in the room you are in so I couldn't see you right away. Instead I went and waited in the lounge with all of the other mothers. They were talking about crying and trying not to cry in front of the nurses in the NICU. One mother told the story of how she arrived one day only to find that the nurse had already fed her son. She explained how she had to hold back tears while at the same time she was thinking "you bitch".

It was nice to be around these mothers who I could relate to because they were going through the same thing I was. The part I couldn't relate to was when they were talking about their husbands not understanding why they were crying so much. I guess I am lucky that way because your dad is so supportive and he completely understands why I am so emotional and he accepts it.

When I did finally get in to see you, you breastfed 15 cc's. Then 10 cc's at 2:30 p.m. Then to my utmost surprise and delight at 5:30 p.m. you breastfed 30 cc's! I couldn't believe it! I was so proud of you - what an accomplishment!

For the first time driving home I actually felt a little happy. I couldn't wait to get home and tell your dad. What a big step for you! Considering the fact that you only take in a total of 42 cc's per feed, 30 is a significant improvement from the 10-15 you were taking in. Now I actually feel very hopeful about the future - my goal is that you will be able to come home with us on the weekend of December 2-3 and now that goal actually feels like it is attainable!

Love,
mommy

TBT #7

December 1st.

The day I officially let myself get swept up in the Christmas spirit. Christmas is absolutely my favourite time of the year. I love driving around at night and seeing all the houses lit up by Christmas lights. I like Christmas shopping (which I do most of) - I love finding the perfect gift for someone and then watching their delight once they've unwrapped it.  Admittedly, I also have a tiny crush on Santa as well (who doesn't like a jolly man who brings you gifts and only expects cookies and milk in return?) And for the rest of the month, I actually don't mind the cold and the snow (not that we have any yet).

There is just something so special about this time of year. Everyone seems a little nicer, a little happier. So it shouldn't be surprising to you that I also really like Christmas music! This one by Nat King Cole is one of my favourites - basically everything he sings about in this song are also the things I love about Christmas. I'd never actually seen this video until now (my how things have changed in the past few decades when it comes to music videos). Hope this song helps you get into the Christmas spirit. Here's 'The Christmas Song'



Letters to Theo - November 19, 2006

Sunday, November 19, 2006

Dear Theo,

I went to Francesca's baby shower today. Everyone was so surprised to see me. Of course everyone asked how you were doing, how long you would be in the hospital for and how I was doing. I told them my "labour story" too. Alana told me about how she had had postpartum depression and she said she understood how I felt. But I think that our situations are very different. I have no idea what it is like to have postpartum depression - my heart goes out to all the mothers who had or still have to deal with this. I can only imagine how difficult it must be for them. My situation is difficult for a different reason. I know that I am only sad because you aren't with me and I miss you terribly and that that sadness will disappear the minute you are home with me. I did tell everyone that this has been the hardest part, being away from you, and that I would have gladly gone through another 32 hours of labour if it meant having you home with me.

After everything I went through with the pregnancy and the long labour, it is the worst feeling leaving the hospital without one's baby. When I think of all the times that I have cried, or the way my heart aches all the time - unless someone has gone through it or is going through it, it is hard for others to understand what it is like.

I left the shower at about 2:30. In some ways it was hard to be there, surrounded by happy people when I am feeling so sad, so incomplete. When I got home Deb, Lisa and the kids showed up with a bunch of food for daddy and I. The boys also made us snowflakes and they each bought you a gift - a little stuffed lamb and a really cute outfit. It was so sweet of all of them. I am truly blessed to have such good friends!

After your father got home we headed to the hospital to visit you. During my first attempt of the day at breastfeeding, you were sucking so strong that it hurt to use the breast shield, so I tried without it. It seemed like you were doing a good job but then when we weighed you there was no change. I was so disheartened. When Joe and I left for the break, I was so upset. I felt like a failure. It is difficult because I want so much to bring you home and I know that it is dependent on you feeding successfully.

Your dad and I had a real heart-to-heart and he told me that when he comes to the hospital, most of the time he feels useless. It was nice to share things with him. I think he is the only one I can talk to who truly understands what I am going through, because he is going through it too.

After the break, your daddy and I gave you a bath.Your dad let me do most of it this time since I was having such a hard day. The two of us ended up having a pretty good laugh because you basically slept through the whole thing! While I was washing your hair you looked so content. It was almost like you were at a salon getting your hair done. I have now decided to nickname you my little sleepy man because you seem to be an expert at sleeping through anything!

For your next feed I decided to use the breast shield again and this time you got 15 cc's so I was happy about that. It made for a much better end to the day. I hope you sleep well tonight my little sleepy man.

Love,
mommy

Theo is 5 years old now and he still has that lamb, which we appropriately named "Lamb". He is a little bit tattered looking but he still sleeps in Theo's room watching over him every night.

Letters to Theo - November 18, 2006

Saturday, November 18, 2006

Dear Theo,

I made the trip to the hospital alone today. Your dad stayed home to clean the house and work on your room. Basically I just showed up to breastfeed. I was lucky though because when I first got there all the breastfeeding areas (a small room with chairs partitioned by curtains for privacy) were full so I just sat in a rocker and held you close to me.

The day went pretty much the same as most days. I breastfed you and then afterwards I hung out in the hospital lobby until it was time to breastfeed you again. I've started to realize that I feel somewhat unwanted when I'm in the NICU. I had a really good talk tonight with my midwife, Jenn, about it. While there are some really great nurses who work in the NICU, there are also some who are basically just there to do their jobs and I think these nurses forget just how hard it is emotionally for mothers to have their children in the NICU.

This afternoon I had packed the fridge with milk and the nurse responsible for you said to me somewhat condescendingly "Mrs. Fletcher, I think we need to introduce you to the freezer." I told her I already had milk in the freezer and she said there was more than enough milk to get you through the night. I felt so uncomfortable that I didn't say anything - though I was thinking about the fact that I wouldn't be back until the 5:30 p.m. feed the next day. Later, when I left and told this same nurse when I would be back tomorrow, she looked kind of surprised (perhaps she realized her earlier mistake or maybe that's just wishful thinking).

I think having you in the hospital has been one of the hardest things I've ever had to go through. When I go to the NICU I feel like I can't be myself. I often feel like I am being judged. It's hard sometimes to not feel like a failure as a mother.

When I think about it - it's interesting that in order to leave the NICU, we have to go through a bunking in test. This involves the two of us staying in one of the NICU's special overnight rooms together and I am completely responsible for you. But in order to 'pass' the test, you have to do well at each of your feedings and subsequent weighings. I wonder if mothers of full term babies have to go through a similar test?? Probably not.

The times I most look forward to are the times when I breastfeed you because I get to be alone with you. Those are the times when I shut out the rest of the world and I just enjoy being with you and being your mom. You are so very precious to me.

Love,
mommy

WILT #8

While this is not a new song, it is one of my favourites. It actually makes me think of my hubby. He is a FIFA assistant referee and therefore travels a lot. He's done tons of Major League Soccer games and he's been to the Gold Cup and the Under 20 World Cup...and yes, the next step is hopefully the World Cup! He loves being an AR and has got to ref some exciting games and meet some popular players - including one of his favourites, Theirry Henry (and yes, Beckham too). It is exciting for him, less exciting for me who doesn't get to travel with him. But I know that he couldn't do what he does if it weren't for me being here taking care of our boys. So whenever I hear this song, I can almost picture him singing these words to me "Cuz the spotlight ain't nothing without you girl..." and I know it's the truth.

Here's Gucci Mane featuring Usher with 'Spotlight'

Letters to Theo - November 17, 2006

Friday, November 17, 2006

Dear Theo,

Your dad decided to come to the hospital with me again today. I was really thankful that he did. It was nice to have his support. He asked all the questions that I wanted answers to - like how long you will be in the incubator (the nurses take their cues from you). We also found out that once you are given the okay to leave the hospital, basically you have to leave on that day. Your dad is concerned because in a couple weeks he will be away at a course for a week. I don`t think you will be released that week, but just in case you are ready, we need to make sure that someone can drive the two of us home from the hospital. We`ll probably ask Jenn.

It just felt a lot better today thanks to your dad being there. We had a good laugh today too - while we were changing your diaper you managed to get both of us `wet`. The two of us just laughed through it, because we went through 3 different diapers. Your dad thought it was especially funny since you only peed on him last night.

Today was also bath day. Your dad stepped up to the plate and he did such a good job and you didn`t really cry either. I took pictures of your first bath with us - your dad calls them blackmail photos.

Overall it was a pretty good day. I love the times when the three of us get to spend time together.

Love,
mommy

Home Renos - Tear the Roof Off!

It started Tuesday when they delivered the dumpster.

I never thought I would get excited about seeing a dumpster in my driveway, but yes, there I was feeling the slight fluttering of anticipation. To you a dumpster, to me, one step closer to my bigger closet!

Wednesday at 8:30 is when the actual work began. We had cleaned out our garage prior to this. Basically they started by tearing down a lot of the siding. Not terribly exciting from the outside (unless you are 2 and 5 like my boys), but progress is progress.



The side of our house after Day 1

The front of our house after Day 1
And yes, our builder's name really is 'Bobby the Builder'

And they took out the ceiling in the garage.

We also learned on Wednesday that we would need to empty out our dining room and since Joe was going to be getting on a flight late Wednesday night and not returning until Sunday night, that meant we didn't have much time to get it done!

Ahhhhhhhhhhhh!!!!!!!!

If your dining room is like mine, then you know this is no small feat. I have a hutch that is filled with all our wine glasses, champagne flutes, tea cups, china and glass vases...all of which had to be carefully taken out and temporarily put on our kitchen table while we moved the hutch and then carefully put back in. We also had to find places for all of the dining room furniture - the hutch is now in our kitchen, the dining room table and chairs are in the basement and our buffet and large plant are in the living room. (Needless to say, I do not plan on entertaining for the next little while) The one saving grace is that when we first got our furniture we put those felt patches on the bottom of the legs, thus making it easy to slide them along the floor. Once the dining room was empty, any sound made in or around there echoed - my boys were totally digging that.

So I was out for most of the day on Thursday and it was dark when the boys and I returned home. But even in the dark I could see the major work that had been done - we no longer had our peaked roof over the garage and front entrance. However, it was still quite a shock when I opened the door leading into the garage, looked up and saw stars!  Yup, they had torn down the roof!

Another view from inside the garage

This is the view in the morning of the side of our house after Day 2

This is the view from inside the garage in the morning



Today was Day 3 and the workers spent the day rebuilding the ceiling to our garage (and I guess technically the floor to our upstairs bedroom).

Tomorrow, I heard a rumour that they are taking out the dining room ceiling - eek!