Ready

So, what REALLY needs to be done before a baby arrives? Well, as I'm sure Stace can attest to - not that much... Alot of things will fall into place, even if you don't feel like you've done much to prepare. And that's kind of what happened with Loki.

We were still living at Whitebread's parents house when he was born. The contractors weren't even finished working on our attic. We didn't have any water and nothing was unpacked. Limbo was like an understatement.

But this time...this time is different.

This time I've got my ducks in a row. In fact, they are in so fine a row - it's almost annoying.

All of Ms. Elora's clothes have been washed and separated by size (did I mention that she has more clothes than WB, Loki & I put together?! ...thank you, Reagan!). Space has been made in the nursery for a few more "girly" things - think mermaids to compliment all of Loki's pirate stuff.

The rest of our house has really been spruced up and undergone a pretty deep cleaning. In fact, all of the art work we'd been meaning to hang since we moved in last year FINALLY got hung!

Everything is set up work wise for a few weeks off. In fact, I've had my shit so together, I've found myself almost twiddling my thumbs a few days this week. That NEVER happens!

I've been taking a ridiculous amount of herbs. I've been doing all of my pre-labor stretching and exercising. And our shower curtains have been aired out.

My toenails are painted, my hair is done, I shaved my legs (pardon their whiteness) and Whitebread hennaed my very pregnant belly!

I mean really, what else could she possibly be waiting for?

Maybe she's expecting a party?

30 Thank You's & A Countdown

I somehow feel strangely connected to all you old hens - more so, than before. Maybe it's because I crossed that threshold a few weeks ago and entered into the realm of the 30's ~ or maybe it's all the chap stick, toiletries and socks I currently own (is that what happens during your 30's? do you begin to hoard random items to be certain you never run out?) :) Thank you all for your thoughtful gifts! It was so much fun getting them!

We didn't do anything too spectacular for my birthday. My mom hosted a lovely dinner up at their swimming pool, which was fun. Barbecue and ice cream cake! I'm not sure who's idea the barbeque was - lol. As a "recovering" vegetarian, I'm not convinced it would have been my first pick, but it sure was good!

I must admit that I was a little worried about the whole affair, because my thoughtful mother had invited my in-laws the morning before all that silly stuff happened in my previous post. I was certain that the whole affair would be just awkward. But it turned out quite nice. There was no major drama to speak of.

Loki has become quite the little walker, which is VERY exciting. He's definitely getting better at it, but still often looks like "Franken-baby" with his hands out in front of him to balance. He's also starting to chat up a storm. Usually, he says things that we've said to him before, but occasionally he'll surprise us. Yesterday, he said, "Bye" to me - which really isn't that big of a deal I suppose, but it about broke my heart. I think it had less to do with the actual saying of the word, "Bye" and more to do with his realization and acceptance of our separation. Which is really just silly since I leave him all the time (at his grandparents, with his dad and now at daycare). And of course, I want him to be independent. But maybe there's a part of me that's just not OK with it! And/or maybe I'm 9 months pregnant and slightly over emotional!

Speaking of being pregnant, the countdown has begun. In fact, I'm up typing this post at 5 AM on Saturday because a few contractions woke me up. But don't worry - I'm not going into labor - YET!

We had our in home visit last Friday with my midwife. That was alot of fun. I was 3 cm dialated then and about 60% effaced. I had another appointment yesterday and I have apparently progressed, but they wouldn't check how much further for fear of accidentally inducing labor.

I think my midwife over booked herself for August. She has four of us about ready to pop. Two are Mennonite women in Virginia. Both of which I think began labor yesterday! Luckily they only live about a mile apart - but they're about an hour and a half away from here. The other woman is local here like me and was due on the 12th but not showing any signs yet of labor. But she'll surely go any day now.

Elora (which is now what we're thinking we may call her) is really down in there, though. I mean REALLY down in there. Without being too graphic, it literally feels like she's about to just slide right out - and wouldn't that make for a nice smooth labor. If only...

Well, I think I might see if I can snuggle back in bad - it's just too early to be awake!

and another

yes, another one! I am getting better and this one I would say is "sell" quality (although I'm not selling it). Notice the matching hair clip on the end of the ribbon. Too much, even for me!!

A good week

Just wanted to update everyone on the our week.

My parents arrived safely and we are having a great week. They stayed at a hotel for a few days and now are at my casa. We have the weekend planned of shopping and eating. Buca de Beppo here we come! I will be sad when they leave on Tuesday.

Sean had two interviews this week and already got asked for a second interview on one of them! YIPEE! Our fingers and toes are crossed for a job offer or two! Wouldn't that be a kicker if we two job offers in one week after such a long drought? I hope I didn't jinx it.

Kylie ate a bunch of chocolate this morning and we had to get her to vomit--fun times. The vet didn't need to see her but we are keeping a close eye on her--sneaky dog!!

Last but not least, Baby Allen is doing great. I finally have a baby bump! I have popped in the past few days. Maternity clothes--here I come!

Getting ready for football season

So, in my spare time, I have been making not only hair clips, but now tutus. I know, I am crazy! I think this one turned out so stinking cute, and it was my first. I will perfect this and then probably sell them at a boutique or something. What do you think?

My little model.....she isn't too into them yet, but I know there will be a time when she starts getting into them and then has friends come over and they can play dress up and dance around.

Happy 30th Birthday to our favorite monkey

Welcome to the club old lady! Hope you have a relaxing and special day. Just remember that life begins after 30.

Love ya and wish we were with ya,
Katee and Katie