Help a Friend in Need?

Hello all!!!

I'd like to share something with you that affects one of my dear friends...
Please consider donating, attending the benefit, or simply spreading the word so that my pal can get the assistance she needs. Many thanks!!!!

Kris Noonan, born on March 1st, 1976 a lifelong community member of the Fargo-Moorhead area (1994 graduate of Moorhead High School) has fully recovered from a near tragic accidental brain injury that happened in Las Vegas, Nevada on September 13, 2009.


Kris is very lucky to have survived a fall that resulted in an intracranial hemorrhage and required her to have an emergency craniotomy nearly one year ago. The accident required ...her to endure a surgery in which the outcome was unknown for family and friends. Her recovery period in the hospital’s Intensive Care Unit was painful and extensive. Unfortunately, with a head injury like this, the recovery does not end once you are released from the hospital. In rehabilitation Kris endured many CT scans, MRI’s, and countless appointments since the day of her accident to ensure that she was on the right road to recovery. This last July she was blessed to find out that she is able to lead a normal full life again. She is able to chase her beloved daughter Lucy around the park again, work full time at her store Pout Baby Boutique, and not become anxious with each headache.



Kris is so grateful for her recovery and truly feels that she has been given a second chance. Unfortunately with that second chance she has been affected with thousands upon thousands of dollars in medical bills. Now it is our time as friends and family to show her that the support does not end now that she has physically recovered. It is time to celebrate what a great daughter, mother, sister, and friend she has been to all if us.

So we would like to share our love for Kris with you and invite you to the “2nd Chance Party for Kris”. The event will consist of hors d’oervres, cash bar, and silent auction with all proceeds going to the Kris Noonan benefit fund.



When: Friday, October 8, 2010


Where: Doublewood Inn in Fargo : 7pm-11pm


Tickets: $25.00 per person



To make an online, tax-deductible donation, go to: www.dakmed.org/lendahand


‘Learn More/Make A Donation’, ‘Individual/Family Funds’, select Kris Noonan Benefit Fund.



DMF Lend a Hand is providing up to $5000 in matching funds.

It's Showtime!

Hey everyone,

I've got some great news! Butterball and I are soon going to be blowing up the airwaves to help promote our role on My First Baby.com.

We've landed one radio spot for sure, and it looks like another station is reaching out to us as well! Yay!!!
Although I have to admit, it feels a little weird for me to be referring to 'us.' That's another multi-person pronoun I'll have to get used to (just like when SFD and I became a 'we').

I'll keep you posted on stations and times as we secure our spots - thanks in advance for tuning in and supporting us!!

Also - I got an awesome shout-out from My First Baby.com's host, Jill Cordes, on her blog. You can read it here! Thank you, Jill, for helping a future mummy out!!

As for my pregnancy, here's my current stats:

I'm 30 weeks preggo which puts me at 7 1/2 months. I'm still feeling really good for the most part (yes, I realize how lucky I am), although I've noticed a few odd things cropping up in these later months.

One) I feel uncomfortable after I eat. Like there isn't enough room for the food so it camps out in my esophagus and makes my chest all tight. Ugh.

Two) My fatigue has returned. I'm lucky to still be awake at 9 pm to write this!!

Three) WARNING - Total TMI here: I'm a pooping machine. I understand some women suffer from constipation and the Big H's during their pregnancy. I am the total opposite. If human waste was good for manure, I could be running a friggin' organic farm by now. Seriously. Buy stock in Cottonell.

Four) SFD and I attended a 'labor experience' class earlier this week. While I feel much more prepared for what I'll experience prior to delivery (called the stages of labor), I've decided there is no way this baby is coming out.

It's raining baby stuff!

Ok, not really (referring to the title) but today is the day of our baby shower!!! Yay - we're so flippin' excited!

We're having a Jack 'n Jill shower so SuperFutureDad gets to share in all the glory he created!! We rented out a couple of room as the Fargo Billiards and Gastropub so boys get one side, girls get the other, but it's all one open space so we can still interact with each other.

Punch, chips and salsa and bean dip, salad, pizza and cupcakes are on the menu - nothing extravagant but enough to keep everyone happy through the Vikings football game that will be on all the big screen tv's!!!

Yeah, this is really more of an excuse to get a big bunch of people together and party! And we can say we did it all for the Butterball!

My family is in town from Florida and SFD's family is all in from MN so we are so happy to have them all. Plus, so many of our friends are sharing this awesome day with us and we are sooooo thankful to them.

Finally, I bought a GORGEOUS dress for the occasion and am super-psyched to wear it!!!

I will post pics and more details once I get everything uploaded later this week so you can see more from Butterball's Baby Shower.

Until then... to catch up on what I've been up to in my 7th month of pregnancy (how did that happen so fast!!) have a look at my latest MyFirstBaby.com vlogs:

This one tells all about BB's global travels so far.

If you're looking for maternity style tips, click here!

As always, please leave a comment and a 'like.' I really appreciate you stopping by and helping MyFirstBaby.com grow!!!

My Baby is Swag-Happy!

Hey ya'll...

got another video on My First Baby!

Please check it out... give it a 'like'... and remember to thank those people who are so generous in your lives.

Butterball is one spoiled little girl!!!

Thanks!!!

Butterball is a star!!!!

Well... it's taken me long enough... but I've finally posted videos I've been storing up on My First Baby!!!

Whew - it's nice to accomplish at least one thing on my to-do list.

Anway, if you'd like to check them out... go to http://www.myfirstbaby.com/!

Look for Patricia  - or just go to the recently posted videos.

And if you like what you see - please remember to give Butterball a "like." She really appreciates it!!!

Pee Pee Pow Wow

Notice to fellow airline passengers: If you see a pregnant lady coming out of the plane's bathroom with toilet paper sticking out of her maternity jeans, please be a dear and give her a heads up. She can't see behind her anymore. Thx.

The Sound of Music

I've got to be honest. I've never seen the movie 'The Sound of Music.' I know it's supposed to be a classic and blah blah blah but it's never managed to capture my attention while scrolling through the Tivo lineup.

However, I do LOVE the sound of music. From country (Lady A/Jason Aldean) to pop (Gaga/Kris Allen) to rap (Eminem) to rock (Kings of Leon) to classical (Ravel), I'm never far from tunage. Pandora at work... Ipod while mowing the law... VH1 Top 20 Countdown during Saturday mornings at work... I can't get enough.

The best part of this is that I get to share it all with Butterball now. One of my favorite things to do with her is listen to music in the car and discuss the artist... sing a little bit... talk about the album and year it came out and what was going on.

We've covered a lot so far.

Pearl Jam - Alive

Miley Cyrus - Party in the USA

Lady Antebellum - their whole album

Lee Ann Womack - her bluegrass stuff especially

Eminem - Recovery

Default - second US-released album

Anyway... I could go on and on with the names of artists we've learned about together. Sometimes BB kicks like crazy (darn her, she's a Miley fan!!), other times I think she's already tuning out mommy. Like, "I KNOW, MOM. BUT EMINEM WAS SOOOO 2000'S."

Either way, it's a simple joy of parenthood I'm loving even before BB is born.

23 Weeks (5 1/2 Months)

It's a Butterball bump!

Question (of the day/month)

Hey y'all... after a weekend break to throw one of the biggest garage sales I've ever been a part of, I'm officially back to work. The sale was, thankfully, a success. We needed to accomplish two goals, a) make room for baby, b) earn enough moula to buy paint for butterball's room. I've already ordered fabric swatches from bedding I like to see if I can get a local store to recreate paint in those colors. Wish us luck!!!

Anyway, I have another article assignment I'm working on and would love your input. As always, please leave me your name and where you're from so I can include your statements in the article (unless you want to use an alias... which is cool... I just need to know you're choosing to go that route for ethics and attribution purposes). Cheers!!!

Question: When sports just aren't in the cards... what do you do if your kid has zero interest in sports??? (ie how to ensure they get exercise and perhaps how to deal with a disappointed parent who was hoping to raise the next Brett Favre) What's your advice???

Here's Your Sign...

When I became pregnant, I fully expected to become engrossed in all those baby and birthing shows plastered on cable. You know the ones... A Baby Story, Birth Day, NICU... the list goes on and on.

But I've come to find out that I don't want to see anyone else's horror show. At this point in my pregnancy (5 1/2 months or 22 weeks), the prospect of labor still scares the crap out of me (which, coincidentally I've heard happens during labor). I will totally admit I am creeped out by the site of babies when they are first born. They're coated in blood and white goop, often have purple and wrinkly skin, and scream to high heaven (I guess I would too, if I were plucked from a warm, cozy womb and thrust into cold, sterile birthing environments).

But there is one show that bugs, annoys and appalls me every time I see a clip of it on 'The Soup.' You can probably guess where I'm going with this if you've ever stumbled on to Discovery Health.

It's called 'I Didn't Know I Was Pregnant.'

Now, I'm not trying to pass judgment on the women featured in this fine piece of television, nor am I meaning to sound crass, but the junior-high phrase 'dropping the kids off at the pool' takes on a whole new meaning when you watch this show. Seriously - does every episode have to end with a woman taking a dump and whoops! - out comes a baby??!!

There have been so many signs that I am clearly, most definitely, preggers that it is hard to believe other women could have missed their signs. So... in the vein of Jeff Foxworthy... here's your sign that you're knocked up:

Do you gag, dry heave and occasionally puke when you brush your teeth? Guess what, you're pregnant.

Have your feet 'suddenly' grown outside the soles of your shoes? Just a heads up, you're knocked up.

Do your farts smell so bad you could clear out an entire concert hall - even those folks in the nosebleeds? Yep, you've got a bun in the oven.

When you spit water out of your mouth in the shower, does it hit your stomach instead of heading straight for the drain like it did before? You'll be a mum in 9 months.

Does your tummy flip and flop as soon as you lay down at night? You don't have gas, you have a womb.

Can you eat an entire bag of Bertolli meals-for-two by yourself? You're not fat, you're pregnant.

Are your rings the casing around your sausage fingers - especially in the morning? You'll be changing diapers soon.

Have your arms suddenly started playing Bingo by themselves? Blame the baby.

Is your underwear taking up residence in your butt crack? Guess what, your hips don't lie, you'll soon have a munchkin by your side.

Do you find yourself mixing up words, misplacing your keys or forgetting items on the grocery list? You're not losing your mind, you're getting a nugget.

Do you look like you should buy stock in Proactive? Don't do it - you can't use it anyway - you're preggo.

At the end of the day, are your ankles the size of your thighs? It's not bloat, it's a baby.

Does your normally rolly, polly (or at least soft and girly) stomach feel like there is something from the movie 'Aliens' inside it? You got it - there is.

Do you have at least one hot flash a day? It's not menopause, it's gestation!

Does an episode of Drop Dead Diva where a man is fighting to retain custody of his chimpanzee from his ex-wife bring you to a sobbing, snotty mess of tears? You are SOOOOOO pregnant.

Obviously, I'm writing these examples from my own experiences of growing Butterball inside me - and honestly, I wouldn't change a minute of it. I love being pregnant.

But I'd love to hear your signs Lady Foxworthy's!!

Just don't tell me you pooped and out came your kid.

Today is the Day!!!

We find out the sex of our baby/nugget/Butterball today and needless to say, it is ALL WE CAN THINK ABOUT!!!!

The most recent poll of what Butterball is, is more even than the initial tally. Early on, people were thinking 80% girl, 20% boy. But now it's nearly 50-50!!!! So who knows what we'll be having!!!

It's so flippin' exciting!!! Although, I admit I am still trying to wake up after we spent a fabulous night out with friends yesterday. Who knew going to bed after midnight would be a problem - I used to do that all the time!!! Welcome to my new life, I guess!

Well, we even made a video during last night's excursion and posted it on My First Baby!! Hope you'll check it out - and remember to 'like' it if you do.

Once again, thank you so much for being a part of our journey!!! It's so much better to share it with friends!!

Nugget or Nuggette?

I can't believe the moment we've been waiting 5 (long) months for is finally almost here! In less than a week, SuperFutureDad and I will know who we'll be welcoming to our family. It's just the most exciting thing to happen in like, forever!!! Ok, besides our wedding day. And when we got engaged. Well, it's one of the most exciting things that will happen in our lifetimes. I get to be a part of the Mommyhood!

So, I'm conducting a little informal poll - what do you think we're having? A Nugget or a Nuggette??
Cast your votes here!

Meantime, some other exciting things have been developing with baby. About a week ago I was lying in the dark just before bed and all of a sudden, BLURP!, in my belly. Did I feel something, I wondered? So I waited... and waited... then BLURP! That had to be it, right? That had to be our baby!!!!

But then... nothing. For the next couple of days it was like it was all dream. I tried to figure out a way to describe it to SuperFutureDad. I've heard it called 'the flutter,' 'bubbles,' 'swishes,' things like that. Here's what I came up with: You know when you're swimming in water when there is fish present? You'll be floating along, and then out of nowhere, a fish comes and skims your leg? It's like you definitely feel something brush against you, but it's diluted because of the water. To me, that's how Butterball feels. I know - what a weird description, right?? After those first couple of days of dormancy, BB has, for the most part, been jazzercising like crazy.

My favorite moment so far came last night. I was lying on the couch after another long day at work and stuffing my face with kettle corn. I love me some kettle corn!!!! SFD and I were talking about our days when WHAM!, Butterball goes karate on my bladder. I mean straight down karate chop! I kinda laughed and told SFD baby is either angry or as majorly in love with kettle corn as I am. A few seconds later, WHAM! karate chop to the bladder. I just pictured BB taking an elbow straight down - like breaking a board - except it's my bladder! WHAM! WHAM! WHAM!

Needless to say I got up to pee and that was it for BB. He/She stayed quiet the rest of the night.

Nugget vs Nuggette

SuperFutureDad and I are gearing up for our 20 week (5 month) appointment. I can't believe it's gone by so fast! I know it really hasn't when I think back to all that we have done and all that has changed in our lives and all that is different with my body.

This baby has traveled to Las Vegas and Belize, SFD and I have signed up for parenting classes, and in the last two weeks I suddenly have a BELLY!!!!

But at the same time all these changes were going on our daily lives had to continue - and what a blur that's been!!!

As it stands, we're still fairly unprepared nursery- and product-wise for Butterball. Although I have started a couple of registries, the big ticket items still elude me. There is so much changing technology and standards I feel have to be checked out that I can't seem to bring myself to decide on a high chair, car seat, stroller, etc. When push comes to shove, we'll have to decide, but right now I'm holding off pending consultations with friends.

We have picked out a crib, but haven't ordered it.

We have paint picked out if BB is a girl, but if it's a boy, we're at a stalemate.

We're signed up for parenting classes, but haven't agreed on a boy's middle FutureNuggetName.

All in good time, I'm sure, but since time seems to be flying, I feel increasing pressure to get things done - NOW!!!

ARGH!!!

First things first though - what are we having??? I have a feeling once we've figured out if we're having a Nugget or a Nuggette, other things will start to fall into place. I think knowing our baby's sex will motivate us to accomplish more... or, that's what I'm hoping.

So - What do YOU think we're having?? I'm hosting an informal poll and will post the results soon. I totally have a guess... but don't want to bias anyone.

Can't wait to hear what you think!!!

Don't Burn Down Your House

Hola my fabulous Friends and Family...


If you have kids, pets, or are prone to leaving burning candles on in your house - please continue reading. If you don't fit any of these categories, you're perfect. Can I have lessons?


I am having a weeklong Scentsy Wickless Candle BOOK party. No need to come to a party... you can view and order items at your convenience! Isn't that great?

If you are new to the Scentsy products, here is a quick introduction. They are the latest thing in scented candles-their warmers warm the wax, instead of burn it so their products are leadless, wickless, flameless and smokeless. 

Scentsy has 80 scents to chose from and close to 100 plugin, medium and full size warmers...you'll find something that will fit your decor. 

Plus just for the month of July...Scentsy is bringing back 20 scents that have been discontiued in the past 6 years. JULY ONLY!

The warmers are electric and heat the wax using a 15 watt, 20 watt or 25 watt lightbulb depending on the warmer. Each scentsy bar can expect to last anywhere from 60 to 80 hours. Scentsy also carries hanging freshners, room sprays and travel tins.

I have books and the scents on hand if you would like to come and check them out...or you can check out the Scentsy products at www.scentsy.com/amygriego and go to my name listed on open parties.

Shipping will be charged on all online orders....otherwise it will be free.

Also, if you would like to hold a party (book or an at home party) the consultant is giving away a free plug in warmer when you close your party ( if held in the month July). I will then in return receive a 1/2 price item at your party.

If you have any questions let me know or you can also contact the consultant at 218-329-2335...Amy Griego, Independent Scentsy Consultant.

If you do order something, please make the check out to me and then I'll submit a bulk payment to make the process easier.

The consultant also has a Facebook page so be sure to check that out as well.

I will be closing on the 15th of July and items should arrive 2-3 weeks after that. 

Thanks so much for considering!

Beiber Fever!!

There is new phenomenon spreading across the pop music and tween world. Beiber Fever! It's in 'honor' of Justin Beiber, some 16(?)-year-old Canadian singing sensation. His songs and dance moves are apparently taking the world by storm.

But there is another fever spreading across the F-M area where I live. BABY FEVER!!! Everywhere I go, I am meeting someone who is preggers or hearing about another couple who is knocked up. It's awesome!!! It's so nice to know that there are other ladies like me who are going through the same thing. And for the women who have been through it before and are on their second or third or fourth babies, the advice is invaluable!!!

For me, I'm still figuring it out as I go - and, of course, posting it here on the blogosphere and on My First Baby for all the world to read and see!! My second video is up and running! Thanks to Neaner for making a guest appearance... look for another episode with the two of us soon.

This week, I am officially 19 weeks (almost 5 MONTHS!!!!) preggers. I still don't understand where the time is going. I am feeling great (except for the occasional hormonal headaches which bring me to my knees) and loving the transformation my body is going through. I realize not all women enjoy seeing their body expand, but I was never a thin girl to start with, so seeing my belly grow with Butterball inside it has been a pleasure so far. Ask me again in a couple of months and maybe I'll have changed my tune - but I hope not!

SuperFutureDad and I have a TON to do, though. That's the only part that's really intimidating about this whole process so far. We have nothing picked out. Can't decide on nursery colors. Still don't have the house in order. Need to have a garage sale. The list goes on and on. We make a great team so I'm sure it will all work out, but thinking about all the STUFF that needs to happen before Butterball arrives is stressful!

Anyway, here's what BabyCenter says about Butterball's development in week 19:

Your baby's sensory development is exploding! Her brain is designating specialized areas for smell, taste, hearing, vision, and touch. Some research suggests that she may be able to hear your voice now, so don't be shy about reading aloud, talking to her, or singing a happy tune if the mood strikes you.

Your baby weighs about 8 1/2 ounces and measures 6 inches, head to bottom — about the size of a large heirloom tomato. Her arms and legs are in the right proportions to each other and the rest of her body now. Her kidneys continue to make urine and the hair on her scalp is sprouting. A waxy protective coating called the vernix caseosa is forming on her skin to prevent it from pickling in the amniotic fluid.

My First Baby

Well - I've finally done it! I've completed my first video for My First Baby!

It's been a long time coming since I found out AGES ago that SuperFutureDad and I had been picked by Meredith Video Studios to be a part of this fantastic - and fun - project.

If you haven't visited My First Baby before, you're in for a treat. It's an online community where first-time moms and moms-to-be share their experiences on their journey toward the Mommyhood. The best part is, it's all video so you get to see people's cute little nuggets or you get to watch their bellies expand (like mine is!!!).

My introductory video is live so if you have 30 seconds (the videos are only between 30 secs and a minute) please check it out and leave a comment. I'd love to hear from you now that you can actually see what I look like carrying Butterball! Plus, feel free to leave me ideas for videos that you'd like to see in the future!!!!

And don't forget that some of the webisodes will be featured on a nationally-syndicated lifestyle television show called 'Better.' You can also follow 'My First Baby' and 'Better' on Facebook and Twitter.

OH! Before I go, I should also give you an update on where I am in this journey!

I am in my 18th week of pregnancy (4 1/2 months) and feeling great!!! My energy has returned. The headaches and insomnia have, for the most part, subsided. I can definitely tell I am gaining some weight - won't be too long before I need to move fully into maternity wear. I'm getting my exercise from mowing the lawn and walking to the pool and swimming. If I could swim everyday, I would - it's the best!

As for Butterball, here's what BabyCenter has to say:

Head to rump, your baby is about 5 1/2 inches long (about the length of a bell pepper) and he weighs almost 7 ounces. He's busy flexing his arms and legs — movements that you'll start noticing more and more in the weeks ahead. His blood vessels are visible through his thin skin, and his ears are now in their final position, although they're still standing out from his head a bit. A protective covering of myelin is beginning to form around his nerves, a process that will continue for a year after he's born. If you're having a girl, her uterus and fallopian tubes are formed and in place. If you're having a boy, his genitals are noticeable now, but he may hide them from you during an ultrasound.

DreamWeaver

For the past three days I have dreamed about chasing tornadoes, watching my dog get into a fight with another dog, sex, and myriad other topics. They are so vivid, I swear they are real. Even the hubs woke up to me one night kicking the blankets off like crazy (I was running!). I'm averaging about 4 - 5 dreams a night since getting pregnant with Butterball. Sometimes they continue even after I've woken up for a potty break. It's freaky!

Turns out though, it's totally normal and lots of preggo women experience vivid dreams. But why? Thanks to BabyCenter.com I found the answer. Here's what they have to say:

Dreams During Pregnancy

Many women report that their dream life shifts into high gear during pregnancy. Interestingly, during the second and third trimesters, you spend less sleep time in rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, the cycle in which most dreams occur. Why, then, all those frequent and vivid dream memories?

It's probably at least in part because you may be interrupting a dream-filled cycle when you wake up to pee, cope with heartburn, leg cramps, restless legs, or a backache, or to shift to a more comfortable position. Waking up during REM sleep makes you more likely to remember your dreams.


It may also be in part that dreams seem so vivid during pregnancy because for most women pregnancy is a time of such heightened emotions — from joy to apprehension and everything in between — but no one really knows for sure.


Here's a look at some common themes and what they may mean, according to Patricia Garfield, a clinical psychologist and author of Women's Bodies, Women's Dreams.


You're caring for baby animals. During the second trimester, many pregnant women dream about cuddly, baby-like animals, such as puppies, chicks, and kittens. Friendly creatures in your dreams are generally thought to signify that you're tuned in to your instincts. Menacing animals, on the other hand, may represent ambivalence about the strange new creature entering your life.


You have a sexy encounter with an old flame. Many mothers-to-be are concerned about their changing figure and its effect on their sex life — while many others feel more sexually charged than ever. Both feelings are often reflected in your dreams. Not only do erotic dreams offer comforting reassurance, but they may mirror the sexiness you feel during your waking hours, too.


Your mate is straying. If you dream that your partner hooks up with an ex-girlfriend or a total stranger, it can signal insecurity about holding his love and attention through a time of great change. Right now, you're dependent on the goodwill and support of those around you, especially your partner. Fearing his loss is a common emotional reaction to being pregnant.

What did you dream about during pregnancy? Were they crazy? I'd like to hear all about it!

What a Good SFD!

On Father's Day, I feel it's only fitting to acknowledge and thank the hubs for being such a great partner, especially during these first four months of pregnancy. He may not realize I notice all the little things he does, but I try keep up (he does so many)! So here is brief list of SuperFuture Dad's best moments:

1.) Buying me cherries and protein-enhanced bread. I happened to mention the other day that I was craving cherries and lo and behold, what do I find in the fridge yesterday?! Fresh, beautiful, red, ripe cherries! Yum-o! He also knows I've been having a tough time eating meat and therefore getting enough protein. As I was deciding on what to eat for breakfast this morning, I pulled open the breadbox and saw a brand new loaf of bread that reads "protein-enriched." He's very thoughtful.

2.) Giving me massages and foot rubs. I don't often like massages - I have a hard time relaxing during them. But SuperFutureDad gets in there anyway, not letting me squirm away. He works his fingers in just like I ask him to which is very nice. He also does not shy away from pulling my toes and rubbing my feet. My toes have never cracked so good - Thank You!!!!

3.) Scooping and filling the cat litter. Believe it or not, this is actually a chore I miss. I love the idea of caring for my kitties and making sure they're poop is getting scooped is something I know makes them happy. However, since getting KU'd, SuperFutureDad has really stepped up (and to be honest, he's had to because of risks of toxoplasmosis). And even when I said I'd take care of the litter when he goes away on a trip next week, he flinched and said he'd rather I not I risk it because of the potential for birth defects when dealing with cat feces. So I'll be calling his dad. Another good man!

4.) Letting me sleep. I've slept a lot during my pregnancy. Sometimes 12 hours a night. That means I've let some household chores slip by the wayside. He's never bothered me if I need to catch some shut eye and he's never made me feel bad for not keeping up my end of the chores. Not that he would do either of those things, anyway. But it's still a lovely attribute and I'd like to say thanks.

5.) Going to baby classes with me. We haven't officially gone to our first parenting class yet, but when we received the list of available classes to take from the doctor, he pulled out his schedule and made sure we picked classes we could both attend. It will be so nice to have my partner there!!

6.) Spending a 'baby day' with me. On one particular day off that we both shared, SFD really wanted a burger and fries. I couldn't stomach the idea and suggested a stir-fry place instead. He agreed. Then I said, "Why don't we stop at some baby stores and check out some cribs?" He said, "Sure. How many stores?" "Four," I said. And without even raising an eyebrow, he agreed. And so we spent the entire day doing baby stuff. We ate stir-fry because all I can stomach is veggies and tofu. We went to eco-friendly stores, baby boutiques, and big box stores all in the name of seeing what's what when it comes to baby cribs and gear. And I have to say, it was so much fun!!! So thanks for being a great SuperFutureDad!!!!!

I love you!!! Happy Father's Day.   

Find Me Here

Extra! Extra! Read all about it!

I've been accepted as the Fargo New Moms Examiner! Yippee!

You may be asking, what in the world is an Examiner?! Essentially, it's a current events and trends Web site that localizes what's going on in your community with real-time postings.

It's not like the news station that I work for full-time. We focus on hard news there. Of course, you can head to that Web site and Facebook page anytime for up-to-the-minute newsworthy items from across the state.

Examiner.com is different in that writers get a specific topic to report on - hence, I'm the New Moms Examiner. All of my items will inform and help new parents get a grasp on what life is like raising kids in the Valley. I'll cover media happenings, classes, upcoming events, etc. The bonus is - if there is something you'd like me to write about - just let me know. You can send me a blog comment, an email or contact me directly from my Examiner.com profile page.

Practically every large to mid-size city (including good 'ole Fargo) has its own Examiner page filled with articles from writers like me. So, if you're interested in becoming one (you have to apply) let me know! I can help you with the process and even tell you about the incentive referral program.

Ok, before this sounds any more like an info-mercial, I'm going to wrap this up! Hope you check out my Examiner.com page and spread the word.

Cheers!

Where's Scooby-Doo When You Need Him?

A funny thing happened when I came into work Friday. I thought I would share the resulting email:

Did anyone notice something wrong with the refrigerator in the corner of the breakroom? Was a green bag causing trouble?

The reason I ask is that when I came into work this morning, my green lunch bag was on the breakroom table and my bag of salad, jello (and possibly a yogurt) were missing. A bag of chips and bottle of water were still inside.

If my bag was causing trouble (those green bags are known to be a bit racy), I apologize. Sometimes that fridge gets full and blocked with stuff and my bag is big - sorry!

However, if it was acting harmlessly, and someone decided to violate it and its contents, please abstain from this behavior again.

I'm pregnant, therefore hungry, and I will find out who you are.

PS - If you decide to post this note on one of those passive-aggressive breakroom note Web sites, again, I will find you.

PPS - The salad was Caesar. 

And this is the kind email I got from a co-worker in return - which I very much appreciate:

Your bag was on the break room table at 12:30 am so at 1:00 am I put your salad, jello and yogurt in the refrigerator by the door.

It’s in the butter tray with your name on it now.

Jello ,Yogurt, salad was very warm so It must have been setting out for sum time.

Sorry I forgot to leve you a note.

Needless to say, I will not be consuming the above-mentioned foodstuffs for fear of dying a slow, botulism-laced death.

Trusting Life

On The Minds of Moms Magazine has done it again! My editors, Dani and Sheri, have put together another amazing issue filled with incredible advice, meaningful stories and inspiring profiles. I am so honored to contribute to this magazine and I hope that you enjoy reading it as much as I enjoy writing for it.

For this latest issue, I met and interviewed an incredible woman named Laetitia Mizero. At first, her story will bring you to tears (and yes, I admit, that's sort of the vibe I was going for) and then it will uplift your spirit to make you feel like anything is possible. And it is. Laetitia is proof.

To read the entire article - click here!

You can pick up your free copy at any Hornbacher's or Sunmart grocery markets in the Fargo-Moorhead area. OR, if you really like what you see, sign up for a subscription! You'll be so happy everytime you find a new issue in your mailbox - I promise!

Finally, if you are an editor, blogger, Web host, or any other business who desires a writer, please feel free to contact me. I am an award-winning reporter/writer who specializes in parenting, lifestyle, fitness, health, and design writing. But I can do it all: magazine, newspaper, television, web and radio. For more of my work, head over to my Web site and be sure to connect with me on LinkedIn.

What is Necessary?

So.

SuperFutureDad and I are beginning to wade through the massive 'must-have' lists that come with opening up any baby gift registry. Seriously? Do we need to invest in disposable bibs and potty training devices (already)? And all those toys out there!!!! It just seems like so much.... stuff!

Do we really need all these baby-rearing devices? Or is this a clever marketing ploy churned out by a man-behind-the-curtain partnership between merchandise companies and retailers?

I turn to you, seasoned mummies and daddies of the world:

What did you really need from your baby registry?

What things were you surprised you needed?

What do you wish you had registered for?

And what items and/or contraptions are still sitting in their wrapping on a closet shelf?

Please advise. 

Over and out.

Work Those Fingers

Hey everyone... I need your thoughts on something.

I'm researching an article on baby sign language...its pros and cons... and how it may help/hinder children with disabilities.

What are your thoughts on and/or experiences with baby sign language? What would you say are its pros and cons?

If you have a child with a disability, how useful have you found baby sign language?

If you know of any experts who teach baby sign language, please feel free to pass this post along. I'd love to get their thoughts, too.

Finally, if you do comment, could you please include your name, where you live and how many children you have. I may use you as a source for my article. If you prefer not to give me your real name, that's okay, too. Just make a note of that in your comment.

Thanks for the help ya'll!!!

14 weeks

I think I've been really lucky. And I DO NOT take it for granted. I'm not just talking about the fact that SuperFutureDad and I are actually going to have a baby. A baby!!! I'm talking about my pregnancy journey so far.

Unlike some of my best friends, I have not had a terrible amount of nausea. I'm very thankful for that because it was really tough to hear and watch them feel so sick for, seriously, 9 months. Ugh.

But I haven't been without some side-effects. Here's a quick breakdown of what Butterball has been up to:

First Two Weeks (I found out within the first week of conception that I was preggers): Energy burst and extreme hunger. Like, every two hours hungry. But only for super healthy stuff. Carrots, cheese, almonds, fruit, granola. Yummy!

Latter Half of First Month and Second Month: Extreme aversion to meat. No chicken, fish, beef. YUCK!! This was really difficult to deal with because I had two trips planned during this time; Las Vegas (with the girls) and Belize (with the hubs). Needless to say, it was super hard to keep nugget a secret during Vegas but we told everyone in Belize because we were there with all my besties from high school! Love you guys!!!

There was also a lot of fatigue during this time. I became the queen of cat naps in my car, on the couch at work and in the living room chair. These areas have never seen so much drool in all their existence!!

Third Month: This is where things get weird. Like I said, I've been very lucky, but two of my side-effects have been painful and annoying to handle. Headaches and insomnia. I get pounding headaches about 3 times a week. They start with a mild but persistent pain on the left side of my forehead but within hours erupt into a crescendo of full-scale, wrinkle-inducing agony encompassing my entire cranium. OUCH! I end up having to lay down in a darkened room and trying to sleep it off, which can take hours. If I don't do this, I end up nauseous with major dry heaves. Nothing ever comes out, but the dry heaving leaves me teary-eyed with snot rippling from my nose. Pleasant, no? I think this is why SuperFutureDad hightails it out of the room when the "hwaph" chorus begins.

The insomnia is a whole other mess. Virtually every night I wake up around 3:30 and am wide-eyed for about 2 to 2 1/2 hours. This is not a good thing, especially the days I have to work. The days I don't work, I can handle it by taking a fabulous cat nap. There is really no rhyme or reason to what I think about during these pitch-black hours and most of it I can't remember anyway. Although I do remember crafting a nasty letter in my head to someone (or something) that shall remain nameless. It was good, too!

This all leads me to my desires as I continue with my fourth month of pregnancy:
No more headaches!
No more insomnia!
Back to better eating - I know I need more protein so will vow to find someway to stomach meat products
Find a consistent exercise routine - I'd like to get back into yoga
Create a plan for how to prepare for Butterball over the latter half of pregnancy - nursery, finances, day care, registry

Enjoy this time!!!!! I am anxious to feel nugget move... I think that is the biggest step I want to experience next.

For your reference, here's a handy guide from BabyCenter.com on how Butterball is developing:

This week's big developments: Your baby can now squint, frown, grimace, pee, and possibly suck his thumb! Thanks to brain impulses, his facial muscles are getting a workout as his tiny features form one expression after another. His kidneys are producing urine, which he releases into the amniotic fluid around him — a process he'll keep up until birth. He can grasp, too, and if you're having an ultrasound now, you may even catch him sucking his thumb.

In other news: Your baby's stretching out. From head to bottom, he measures 3 1/2 inches — about the size of a lemon — and he weighs 1 1/2 ounces. His body's growing faster than his head, which now sits upon a more distinct neck. By the end of this week, his arms will have grown to a length that's in proportion to the rest of his body. (His legs still have some lengthening to do.) He's starting to develop an ultra-fine, downy covering of hair, called lanugo, all over his body. Your baby's liver starts making bile this week — a sign that it's doing its job right — and his spleen starts helping in the production of red blood cells. Though you can't feel his tiny punches and kicks yet, your little pugilist's hands and feet (which now measure about 1/2 inch long) are more flexible and active.

Two Lines? I Cannot Tell a Lie.

Boy, has it been a while since you've heard from me!  But I promise there is a very good reason.

About 3 months ago... well... nearly 14 weeks ago in fact, I found out SuperFutureDad and Almost Mommy were going to become SuperDad and First Time Mommy!!

I know! Hard to believe, right?? We are no longer in the land of no nuggets!

After nearly a year of trying to conceive, we finally knocked boots at the right time to get me knocked up! Here's the proof:

Needless to say, it's been an incredibly difficult secret to keep from my blogosphere buddies but one that I felt needed to stay between me and SFD and our families. But now that we've spilled the beans to our closest friends and relatives, we're happy to share the fantastic news with the world!

And we are going to be doing exactly that (no joke!) for a new Webisode series called 'My First Baby,' produced by Meredith Video Studios. How cool is that! You can find the webisodes and all the program information at this web addy (although they tell me it won't be live until June 14th). So please be sure to check back then (I'll send you a reminder, too).

The Webisodes will also be featured on a nationally-syndicated lifestyle television show called 'Better.'
To find out where and when 'Better' airs in your area, click here! Just so you know Nai Nai, 'Better' airs on the Fort Myers Fox station WFTX at 6:00 am. And I know you're up at that ridiculous hour, so you should be able to catch it.

You can also follow 'My First Baby' and 'Better' on Facebook and Twitter.
We filled out a written application, passed two rounds of phone interviews and submitted a (laughable) application tape to get accepted and we are so pumped! Now, all of our friends and family who live far away can be a part of our pregnancy experience and beyond.

Here's how it works: they are sending us a Flip Cam (it's in the mail now) and we go to town shooting video of the ups and downs of the next, in our case, 6 months before delivering our little nugget. Then we do some more shooting after we bring our little bundle home! It's going to be a really uplifting and positive look at what life is really like for us as new parents, although we're not immune to a brisk dose of reality either. We've already found out that day cares in our area have waiting lists stretching into April 2011!! So, I'm sure this will be a really eye-opening experience and it will all be captured on tape.

So... what I want to do now is take your questions!!! Since I haven't written for so long, I'm sure you're curious as to how this all happened, how I've been feeling, etc. But maybe you're not and just want me to get on with keeping you up to date from this point on. Either way, I love feedback and want to hear from you!

I'm baaaaaaacccckkkkk!

It's a Procreation Vacation (Deuce)

Whattup y'all? Well... it's been, like, forever since you last heard from me. So sorry!!! I think the reason is that I've finally stopped hibernating and am enjoying our early spring. This beautiful (and early) weather pattern is something I've never experienced here so I'm taking advantage of it while I can. Last year it rained all of June and July so my theory is you've got to get the good while the gettin's good. Or something like that.

Anyway, my real reason for writing is to let you know I've had several writing assignments published since I my last posting. My freelance career is so much fun... and yes, work... but I love it and am really thankful for all the opportunities editors have given me thus far. Here's a sampling of my recent stuff:

Babymoon in the ‘Burgs: Romantic Travel in Fredericksburg, VA & Gettysburg, PA: 

as seen on The Vacation Gals

'SuperFutureDad and I had just crossed the border into Virginia from North Carolina when a ferocious rain storm nearly knocked us off the interstate. The fat drops fell fast as the wiper blades in our compact rental car furiously sloshed the water to the side. Good thing we spotted a “Virginia is for Lovers” sign. We pulled into a rest stop and bounded inside to collect some Virginia Tourism Board swag.'

Heather Butler: Life - embrace it, live it, love it:

as seen in the April/May issue of On The Minds of Moms Magazine

'If you had told Heather Butler when she graduated high school what her life would be like in twenty years, she would probably have thrown her head back and launched into her hearty, infectious laugh. She would have looked you straight in the eye—she’s spunky and direct—and said in her throaty voice, “Yeah, right!” Who knew she’d be a dental hygienist and a stay at home mom? She’d spend thousands of hours volunteering and fishing. She’d be divorced once, married twice and have not three, not four, but five, beautiful children. And believe it or not…she wouldn’t have it any other way.'

I hope you get a chance to check these out!

Until next time...

Planning a Bodacious Baby Shower

So... one of my besties here is almost ready to pop with her first nugget! I am so excited! I get to be an Auntie (by location default, of course).

Several months ago a couple of her good friends and I decided that we would throw her a bodacious baby shower - or at least try to. Well, now the day is almost here (tomorrow) and I am stressing!! I want everything to be perfect! It's her first baby after all... you don't get baby showers after the first one, do you??

I just keep imagining what I would want my baby shower to be like and I'm hope, hope, hoping that we are giving our friend the shower she deserves and wants!!

So... although there is not much time left... I would love your opinions on whether or not we are on the right track.

Location: Chez moi... in our basement... where the fireplace is. We have 2 couches, 2 arm chairs, 2 ottomans, and countless other random chairs for gals to sit in. There is also a bathroom on that floor so no need to go upstairs.

Time: 2 pm.

Decorations:
Baby Shower banner hung above the fireplace
Shiny foil Baby Shower banner hung across the big screen TV
Mummy-To-Be gets to wear a sash that reads... you guessed it... MOM-TO-BE

Theme:
She is not finding out the sex of her baby so I went with a Noah's Ark, multi-color theme. We have Noah's Ark plates and napkins and cups... as well as plates, cups and napkins in pale yellow. That's gender neutral isn't it?
I bought a green tablecloth because her nursery is painted green. The invitations were also designed with her nursery's color in mind.

Menu:
Build-your-own sandwiches with a choice of turkey or ham, white or wheat cocktail buns and Colby cheese.
I'll put condiments in little dessert bowls so people can choose what they want.
Tortilla chips and queso.
Veggie tray.
Fresh, air-popped popcorn using SuperFutureDad's movie-theater-type popper
Crackers, pretzels and cheese
Fruit pizza
Cake - chocolate with chocolate frosting decorated with same green as her shower. It reads: "Oh, baby! Congrats, (her name)!
Candy - placed into hurricanes for easy grabbing

Drinks:
Box 'o Wine
Bottle of champagne
Fruit Punch

Games:
I am not in charge of games but I think we are planning on having 2 different games. The traditional melted chocolate bar in diaper game... I think a microwave is involved.
And a 'guess the M&M count' game. Her friend filled baby bottles with green and brown M&M's (again, her nursery colors) and whoever guesses the correct amount of candy wins the bottle as a party favor.

Whew!!! I think that's it. We are expecting about 25 people. If you have any suggestions of how we can pull this off better, I'm all ears.

Question (of the day/of the month)

Help! My laptop is dying a slow, painful death. Right now, it's wheezing like it needs a tracheotomy. I can not - repeat, can not - live without a 'puter. It must be portable (laptop), have long battery life, have lots of room for music and photos and be easy to navigate and store my writing. So...

What computer would you recommend for someone like me?

Obviously price will always be an issue, but I'm trying to not let that dictate my choice. My above-listed requirements are much more important. I really look forward to your feedback on this one!

It's a Procreation Vacation!

Howdy doo world wide web highway neighbors! It's a great day isn't it? It's cold as heck here, a massive spring flood is just around the corner and I've got to return to the 9-5 today (although it's more like 12 - 10:30 pm).

But you know what, all sarcasm aside, life is good. March Madness is on its way, I've got holidays scheduled for April, a rockin' concert to see in June and an indoor soccer league that is starting up soon!

Yippee!!

Oh! And one other thing - I'm making my debut as a guest writer on The Vacation Gals!

My first post is up - it's all about me and SuperFutureDad's version of a babymoon!

You can check it out here! I hope you like it.....

Proof Positive

Gosh - it's amazing that making a simple choice could yield such massively positive results.

A while ago I wrote this piece, about my efforts to live my life like I've always imagined. And by that I mean, being a good person. Not great. Not excellent. Just good. Simple. Honest. Open.

I talked of what I thought I already did well in life and the things I'm pretty poor at doing.

My intention of writing this down was to make myself accountable. To myself. To my husband. To my family and friends. To the people who have so lovingly allowed me into their lives. And the rewards (unforeseen at the time), reinforce why this is the best life goal I could have ever set for myself.

I am seeing more of my gal (and guy) pals than ever before and we are all taking active efforts to be more involved in each other's lives. We have set up a dinner party group, gone out for a birthday bowling bash and even attended a different kind of party. I feel like a better friend and am so happy to know how my friends are doing in their lives - the good and the bad.

I am answering emails in a more timely manner, something I've been terrible at doing in the past. This has lead me to great volunteering opportunities reading to elementary school kids and a few new writing opportunities. Both things make me feel really happy.

I am noticing there is a time and a place for swearing. I will always, ALWAYS, have a sailor's vocabulary, but dropping an f*bomb while reading to kindergartner's is not something I want to be known for. However, I must say a massive thank you to this morning's first grade teacher for having a laugh with me when my Tommy Boy ring tone went off in class. Luckily, I reached it before it got to the dickhead part.

SuperFutureDad and I are saying things like 'please' and 'thank you' and 'I love you' more. That feels GREAT!!! Politeness goes a looooonnnnngggg way when dealing with the ones you love and they deserve graciousness and gratitude as much as - if not more than - the stranger for whom you open the door.

My world is still black and white but I'm trying to choose to ignore the things I can't change. This doesn't happen everyday but when it does, it's liberating. No toxic-energy for me! As tiara-wearing Julia Mancuso stated during the Olympics, 'save the drama for your mama.'

All of this being said, I am still a work in progress. That's life, eh? You live, you learn. You try to be good.

But if I find you putzing around the left lane forcing me to pass you on the right, I will still give you the bird. You deserve it.

State of Mind

Hey all - Big News!! 

I'm making my debut as a writer for a new Web site this week. It's called The Vacation Gals and it offers expert advice on family travel, girlfriend getaways and romantic escapes. I believe my post will be up on Wednesday, but I'll let you know for sure! 

SuperFutureDad has read and signed off on it, so I hope you will like it, too!

Meantime, check out my state of mind... what's yours??

Current read: sticking with Kathy Reichs... this time going with Grave Secrets. Seriously, if you like mystery and crime novels - or the TV show 'Bones' - you will LOVE her books.

Current TV Show Obsession: The Inbetweeners 

You. Must. Watch. This. Show.

Current Song Addiction: Live Like You Were Dying by Kris Allen... I'm not one to watch American Idol and I won't start because of this guy but he almost makes me want to... almost.

Current Movie Obsession: Inglorious Basterds by Quentin Tarantino. Yup... finally hopped on that bandwagon.

C

Question (of the day/of the month)

I pose this question based on a situation that one of my preggers pals finds herself in:

Does your Ob/Gyn or delivery doctor have an obligation to inform you that he/she will be on vacation during your expected due date?

Do you have the right to tell them your upset if they are going on vacation (especially if they haven't told you they are)?

What sorts of action(s) can you take to ensure your birthing plan is still one your comfortable with?

I'm really intrigued by this situation. It popped up during the movie 'Knocked Up' but I never really gave it much thought until it actually happened to someone I know. I'm not in a position to give the proper advice, so again, I turn to Tales readers like you for perspective.

State of Mind

Current Read: Anything by Kathy Reichs

Current Song Addiction: How by Katharine McPhee off her new album Unbroken

Current TV Show Obsession: Still rolling with my USA Network shows!

Current Movie Obsession: Valentine's Day... but only because I've got a hot Monday night date with my ladies!!!!!

Choices

One of my goals in life is to be a good person. In fact, above all my other endeavors, this is the one I think about most often. I want to be a good person more than anything in the world.

I don't always succeed at being good, but I like to think I try pretty darn hard.

I'm a loving daughter. I respect my parents and visit them at their home in the Sunshine State as often as I can (especially when one of them is recovering from a nasty accident - love ya dad!).

I say 'please' and 'thank you.' Even to strangers. And my husband.

I work hard. I hold myself accountable at my everyday job so other people don't have to.

I call my out-of-town besties often and I plan regular get-together's with my local gal pals, too.

But sometimes (more than I'd like to admit) I fail miserably at achieving 'goodness.'

I swear. A lot.

I'm quicker to speak than I am to think. 

I don't answer emails in a timely manner.

I get frustrated by slow talkers and interrupt them.

I belch. Out loud. Sometimes I do this in public.

I speed. And if you drive slow in the left lane on the interstate and I have to pass you on the right, chances are I will salute you. Not in a nice way, either.

I (usually) think I'm right. And presume others (yes, you) are wrong.

The world I live in is black and white. Filled with what's right and what's wrong. Lawful and unlawful. I believe that everyone makes choices. You choose to be good or you choose to be evil.

Perhaps, this view, too, makes me not as good as I'd like to be.

I often find myself wondering if I'm truly good. Am I doing enough to be the person I want to be?

Most pressing on my mind as the 'Baby Jones' continues to rule my life, is what will my future children think of me? Will they notice the things I take pride in? Will they recognize my faults? Will they think I'm good?

Maybe they won't notice my pluses and minuses straight away, but at some point they will be all too aware of them. I believe that when you have nuggets, you are not only accountable for your behavior, but also (to a certain point) theirs.

You help them understand right and wrong. Lawfulness versus lawlessness. Good from evil.

I just want to be good. And I want them to be good, too.

No pressure, right?

State of Mind

Trying something a little new here...


I though it might be fun to share some of the stuff I'm crushing on now... perhaps you'd like to share to?


Current Read: Dear John by Nicholas Sparks (that's right, I've jumped on that bandwagon)

Current Song Addiction: Already Gone by Sugarland (I would like to post a video of this from You Tube but I don't know how to show the whole window so you can play from here... can anyone teach me that??)


Current TV Show Obsession: White Collar, Psych and Burn Notice (love me some USA network)

Current Movie Obsession: The Hurt Locker (haven't seen it but desperately want to!)

Can't wait to hear what your crushing on!!!!!

Question (sometimes of the day, sometimes of the month)?

Question, my faithful Tales readers... and, of course, the always-welcome newbies, too:

How do you feel about circumcision?

I have a dear friend who is pregnant with her first child, a boy. She has been researching why people get their boy nuggets circumcised. Since I am not a member of the Mommyhood yet, nor do I have a Lady Gaga, I turn to you for answers. What say ye?

PS - For the record, I don't think the Divine Miss G is a hermi. But if she were, I wouldn't give a flip. Long live the poker face, disco stick, paper gangsta and bad romance.

Baby Braggin' Wednesday: Max and Sam

After last week's debacle, Baby Braggin' Wednesday is back! And these two bodacious brothers are making BBW better than ever. Let me introduce:

MAX AND SAM

OMG - isn't this pic the cutest?? Like older brother Max is telling a really cool secret about mummy to Sam? I can just imagine how this conversation is going...

Max: "Ok, dude, I know you're not liking the whole nap thing? I mean, who does, right?"

Sam: "Seriously! It totally messes up my Baby Einstein time. What should I do?"

Max: "First, you have to stop pooping. Just for a day. Give the woman a break. And for goodness sake, quit peeing on her when she goes to change your diaper! Once you've mastered that, it's all gravy."

Sam: "Sweet. So glad I got you, bro."

 

These two hunks belong to a co-worker of mine, Wendy. She and I worked a TON together during last spring's nearly catastrophic flood - while she was pregnant! Just about everyday, there she'd be, lugging our ridiculously heavy cameras all over God's creation to make sure we got the best flood footage around. She's a wonder! Thanks Wendy!!!

Anyway... Samson joined Wendy's clan just in time for the holidays this year - in November, on Friday the 13th. Yikes!! He weighed in at 6lbs 4 oz but his going home weight was 5lbs 14oz. Double yikes! "I had to buy some premie clothes to fit him in for about two weeks," says Wendy.

Two-year-old Max is still pretty leery of this new, younger nugget in the house. When Sam first came home, Max quickly rounded up all of HIS things and piled them into a corner. He's not down with sharing and has been known to refer to everything as "mine."

 

When the baby cries, Max will just toss stuff at him. He'll wing a pacifier at Sam when he thinks Sam's hum-gree (hungry) or toss a blanket over Sam's head if he thinks the baby's cold. "Anything to shut him up, I guess! LOL!!," laughs Wendy.

 

I'm guessing this is typical behavior for a terrible two-fer, right?? 

But Max does have a soft spot for the baby. He'll spend much of his free time looking for Sam. He'll check the usual spots - car seat, pak-n-play, swing. You name it. And every once in a while, there's a little glimmer of affection between the brothers.

"During a photo session in the living room, I got Max to give Sam a quick kiss, but due to a delay in the digital camera world, I just barely got it!," exclaims Wendy. 

Wendy says her nuggets are both growing so fast she swears she can see Sam grow overnight as they snuggle in the recliner ("A MUST investment for new parents! You spend LOTS of time there.").

Thanks for sharing your cutie-patootie's with me Wendy!!!

If you'd like your nuggets featured in an upcoming edition of Baby Braggin' Wednesday, just email me some pictures, details like names and ages, and any other additional info or stories you'd think might be fun to share!

I look forward to writing about your babes!