Unsolicited Advice/Comments

Since when did everyone become an expert on pregnancy? It seems that not a day goes by that I am bombarded with some "words of wisdom" from random strangers. What compels these people to force their opinion on me... just because I'm pregnant? I've heard it all... "You're carring low.", "You're carrying high. It must be a boy", "Take it easy", "Are you sure you should be doing that?", and my personal favorite, "Are you sure there's only one in there?"... I could go on and on.

I even had some strange lady pop her head into the door of the metro and say, "No one gave you their seat. And you're pregnant." Very weird. Why would anyone assume that just because I'm pregnant, I am unable to stand... and that nobody was nice enough to offer me their seat. I had several people ask me and I declined. I sit for 8 hours a day in front of a computer and welcome the opportunity to stand, when possible. When did pregnancy become a disability?

On the extreme other end, there are strangers who like to give compliments. Compliments are always welcome... as long as they're not creepy. I like getting reassurance that I'm not looking as fat as I feel. But still, I have never felt it necessary to tell a complete stranger much of anything. And I'm not sure why so many people find pregnancy a common talking point. I'm sure it will only get weirder when I'm toting around a cute little girl.

A Fond Farewell

This week, I had to cancel my membership to the YMCA. Though it doesn't actually run out until August 14, I'm still sad. The Y has been very, very good to me. I went in this morning before work and rode the stationary bike and then shot some baskets. I got lots of strange looks. Ever seen an 8-month pregnant woman shooting a jump shot? Me neither. I had a wonderful time, as I haven't actually been going much for the last few months. That whole pre-term labor thing kinda threw me off. Instead, I was walking and doing yoga. But really, I belong in a gym. It makes me feel like I'm actually doing something. And no, none of you should worry. I'm taking it easy. I definitely can't run a 7-minute mile at this point... and I really don't want to. I'm doing just enough to qualify for exercise and then I'm on my way...

I'm not sure what will happen after the little one is born. Brady and I will probably take Ella for walks and such, but it's really not the same. We're still planning on joining a coed basketball league in the winter... but I have no idea how I'm going to get back into shape before then. I guess I'm just wishing for a nanny and a personal trainer :-)

So long, YMCA. I hope to see you soon.

Random Silliness

Here are some photos from the last few weeks:

1 & 4: Brady proudly attempting to eat lobster
2: 4th of July on the Mall
3. Laughing at Ji Sun and Kathi at Pizza Paradiso
5. Dessert from the farmer's market

Note to Self:

Pregnancy and 100 degree heat are a bad combination. Next time, I think I'll plan it so that I'm spending the third trimester in the winter. At least I can work from home :-)

Making a Mess

Did you know that disposable diapers account for 3.5 billion tons of landfill waste every year? That's about 2% of all of the waste in America. Disgusting, huh? Well, Brady and I have been thinking it over and we're going to try not to contribute too much to all of that seemingly endless pile of s#%t. I have found a company, g Diapers , that has semi-disposable diapers with flushable liners that may be easier than traditional cloth diapers. I'm not sure I'm willing to give them a try when Ella is right out of the womb, needing to be changed 15 times a day. But, maybe after a month or so.

I just don't like the idea that we're making the world less inhabitable for future generations. I'd like to think that in 20 years Ella will be able to enjoy her surroundings, take a hike, swim in a lake... breathe the air without getting sick. Things we take for granted. Unfortunately, we live in a single-serving society, where everything must be cheap and convenient... but at what cost?

Muppets!

While my brother was in town last week, we went to the American History Museum where there was an exhibit of Jim Henson's creations. Though there wasn't much on display, it brought me back to my childhood and all the fun shows I used to watch. The picture above is from Emmett Otter's Jug-Band Christmas. Anyone remember that? I'm sure my parents remember watching it over and over. There was also a scary creature from the Dark Crystal, which I only vaguely remember - but definitely want to see again. I was slightly disappointed that there were no Fraggles - my FAVORITE show (did you know they're making a movie?).

I was telling Brady about the exhibit this morning... and he hasn't seen any of the shows! So, since everything is now on DVD, we're going to be making some purchases so our little one can enjoy some old school entertainment... and I can relive my childhood. I have a feeling the shows won't be as good as I remember them... but anything's better than Teletubbies and Barney :-)

More Cool Stuff

I LOVE the Internet. I'm always finding the coolest (though not necessarily useful) stuff for kids. I can't say I've bought much (or really anything), but I'm constantly in search of inspiration and it seems that nowadays, it's easiest for me to find it online. Sad, but true. Here are some of the interesting things I've found. My list is rather extensive, so I'll try to keep this one short:

The Coolest Baby Book... EVER
Paint by Number Wallpaper
Funny Onesies
Knit Mobiles... and Everything Else
Fun Kid + Baby Stuff

The Scoop

I just got back from another Dr. appointment to go over my ultrasound/check on my progress. All is well... I just have to get another ultrasound in 4 weeks to see if my placenta moved up. If not, I may have to get a c-section... or they'll just set me up to do either (vaginally or c-section) when I actually go into labor. I'd have to get an epidural early, just in case I bleed... then they can go straight to a c-section. Otherwise, everything is perfectly normal. I have gained a total of 24 pounds and am no longer retaining water since I got off of the Procardia. I am, however, still puking in the morning. The Dr. offered me more Phenergan to stop the nausea, but I figure I can last another 6-8 weeks with no meds. It's just no fun... and every time I have to throw up, I feel terrible for Ella - and find myself apologizing to her. I'm not sure she can feel it, though.

Well, there you have it. All the news that's fit to print. Brady's still in Idaho for work and I can't wait for him to come back. I find myself missing him more now that I'm so far along in the pregnancy (though I always miss him when he's gone). Everything's just more fun when he's here... :-)

Shower

My baby shower was this Saturday at the old Haynes house - now Gabe + Mandy's. Thanks to everyone who made it... and to Heidi and Mandy for organizing everything and providing us with yummy food. Ella received lots of fun stuff - she'll be the best dressed kid on the block. Thanks to everyone for thinking of us :-)

My brother Andrew and his girlfriend Lisa were in town, so they were here for the festivities, as well. They flew in last Monday night and were here for the 4th. We had a fun-filled week, but now I have to take them to the airport. I'm sad to see them go - it's been nice to have them here... especially since Brady's been out of town since Thursday for his 10-year high school reunion. Tomorrow is my big day - I go to the Dr.'s to see what they're going to do with me... I'll let you know soon.

The Belly

Many have asked for pictures of the belly... now you're in for it.

My friend Jess came by on Thursday and took some photos (thank you!). So... here you go. I'm still not all that big, but feel as though I'm growing every day (which is probably true). Ella is as active as ever and now her alien-like movements are visible to everyone. I'm getting anxious to see her... but hopefully she can wait a bit longer.