Cleona could be here tomorrow. Or in 43 days. Or somewhere in between. This little girl has shown her personality to us from early on in utero. We learned that she is stubborn, for sure (and she comes by that honestly--Matt and I are both very stubborn people). We've learned that she's sassy, and she's a mover and a shaker. And apparently leans towards liberal. (No really, I've got physical proof--if you check out my left side and right side of my body, you'll see that I have about 8x more stretch marks on my left side of my hips/torso/chest than the right--because this little girl--wait for it...--leans left!)
All silliness aside, I find myself wondering what she will look like all the time. Will she get her daddy's eyelashes? My ears? Will her hair be straight or a little wavy? Heck, will she even HAVE hair?? What about her nose--there's a lot of noses she could inherit.
And will she be outgoing and loud like her mommie or a little more reserved but also a cut-up like her daddy? Will she be a leader? An observer? An uber-nerd like both of her parents?
What will she do with her life? Who will she become? What will her favorite color(s) be? Will she sing and dance or play soccer or be a bookworm--or all of those things?
Only time will tell.
Pregnancy has been a long process for me/us. We've been preparing to meet this girl for going on two years--from the moment I visited my doctor and said "okay, tell me about this whole going-off-the-pill thing...." We've been planning and anticipating, scheduling and determining, hoping and praying and really, spent a heck of a lot of time wondering.
And then we finally got that positive sign...and although I've spent the past 8 months growing a human being, I haven't spent all of them thinking about how I was going to get to meet her--like, really really meet her, because at some points it was just too much to think about.
But now I think about the first time we will see her face. And it makes me smile and brings tears to my eyes. And then--after a very appropriately timed kick or round of hiccups from inside my belly--I smile even bigger.
:)
Friday, July 27, 2012
Tuesday, July 24, 2012
things I didn't understand until I was pregnant...
baby brain.
it's real, folks. like, no joke, honest-to-goodness, for reals. if I want to do something I need to DO IT. and pronto. or else it'll never happen. I've been forgetting words. Or saying words where one syllable matches the word I want and the other doesn't. it's bizarre.
people keep telling me that your brain never comes back. I am hoping they are mistaken. My Aunt Ellen told me that it comes back but takes a long long while. I'm going to hope that's the case.
barefoot and pregnant (in the kitchen)
for whatever reason I always thought this was also a comment on social status or a comment from the 50s. or something.
um, no. not at all. do you know why they say barefoot and pregnant?? it's because your feet--they swell. they well in the kind of way where your shoes leave big ol' imprints in your feet. If you're particularly lucky like I am, those imprints hang around for a bit after they are there. it's delightful.
(oh and PS thanks for the suggestions Maria and Cassie! Cassie, I have some banana and spinach or kale pretty much daily (in my green smoothie) but I bought some bananas to eat by themselves! and Maria, my doc said no-go on the compression socks. Apparently we'd rather my feet swell than me overheat. Also, I don't have pants that are even remotely comfortable that are also work appropriate, so there's that. BUT I will keep them in mind for next time, especially if we have a baby in cooler weather)
people will look at you like you are crazy for your choices.
and it doesn't matter what they are.
I would've loved to have a home birth. there are a multitude of reasons we aren't going that route including that I tend to have the weird medical problems and that we've never done this so we haven't a clue what labor will be like for me. instead, we are going to the hospital (statistically normal) and having our baby there.
however, we have hired a doula (statistically not normal) and I am doing everything in my power to have a totally natural/unmedicated birth (statistically not normal, at least in the past 3 generations). I have gotten a LOT of input on this--including from my doctor yesterday who said "well, a lot of women find that once they're in labor their plans change." which, admittedly could totally happen, BUT at the same time? natural childbirth aligns with my entire life philosophy. so, while I totally get that I might change my mind, or need an epidural for a number of different totally legit reasons, I don't think my core values are going to uproot themselves and be replaced by something more mainstream. also? my mom had twins and two ten pound boys without any drugs. I think it's definitely possible.
we plan to cloth diaper (again, unusual but gaining popularity, and totally what everyone did a few decades ago) and breastfeed for 12 months if at all possible, and anyway. yeah. I get that some things are less orthodox/mainstream. but daaaang.
growing a human being is pretty friggin incredible!
I have had many moments where pregnancy is totally not fun. I will spare you the details, and instead just say that literally since three days after the test was positive (and heck, even beforehand, when the test kept saying negative month after month) pregnancy has definitely had some "downs." But recently I can't help but keep thinking--I am creating a person. Like, growing and developing a HUMAN BEING. Clearly you can't get pregnant on your own, and please don't think I'm ignoring the whole divine plan thing, but I eat food and my body takes some of it and develops a brain or lungs or blood or skin or digestive organs, etc. I am the sole source of nutrients and support and LIFE for this little girl. Often when she gives a little kick or sticks her bottom out, I get this ridiculous grin on my face--because for one, there's a BABY in my belly and she gets to come home and live with us for a long long time. And for two, I can already tell that all of the "downs" from the last 8 months (and before) were totally worth it--because I have grown a human being. And if she were born today (which I sincerely hope she isn't! PLEASE wait!) she would very likely survive! It just, it blows my mind.
It's pretty powerful stuff. I must admit that sometimes when I get down and out (because my hips hurt, my feet are swelling, my nose is spreading, I miss beer, I can only eat half of a sandwich at a time, etc) I remind myself that I work harder in my sleep than most people work all day--and that I have grown a PERSON.
I am carrying my potential future grandchildren.
my friend courtney pointed this out to me--females are born having all of the eggs they'll ever have, right? which means all of cleona's eggs are already in her body, right now, just hanging out. a handful of those eggs will potentially become children some day. WHOA.
it's real, folks. like, no joke, honest-to-goodness, for reals. if I want to do something I need to DO IT. and pronto. or else it'll never happen. I've been forgetting words. Or saying words where one syllable matches the word I want and the other doesn't. it's bizarre.
people keep telling me that your brain never comes back. I am hoping they are mistaken. My Aunt Ellen told me that it comes back but takes a long long while. I'm going to hope that's the case.
barefoot and pregnant (in the kitchen)
for whatever reason I always thought this was also a comment on social status or a comment from the 50s. or something.
um, no. not at all. do you know why they say barefoot and pregnant?? it's because your feet--they swell. they well in the kind of way where your shoes leave big ol' imprints in your feet. If you're particularly lucky like I am, those imprints hang around for a bit after they are there. it's delightful.
(oh and PS thanks for the suggestions Maria and Cassie! Cassie, I have some banana and spinach or kale pretty much daily (in my green smoothie) but I bought some bananas to eat by themselves! and Maria, my doc said no-go on the compression socks. Apparently we'd rather my feet swell than me overheat. Also, I don't have pants that are even remotely comfortable that are also work appropriate, so there's that. BUT I will keep them in mind for next time, especially if we have a baby in cooler weather)
people will look at you like you are crazy for your choices.
and it doesn't matter what they are.
I would've loved to have a home birth. there are a multitude of reasons we aren't going that route including that I tend to have the weird medical problems and that we've never done this so we haven't a clue what labor will be like for me. instead, we are going to the hospital (statistically normal) and having our baby there.
however, we have hired a doula (statistically not normal) and I am doing everything in my power to have a totally natural/unmedicated birth (statistically not normal, at least in the past 3 generations). I have gotten a LOT of input on this--including from my doctor yesterday who said "well, a lot of women find that once they're in labor their plans change." which, admittedly could totally happen, BUT at the same time? natural childbirth aligns with my entire life philosophy. so, while I totally get that I might change my mind, or need an epidural for a number of different totally legit reasons, I don't think my core values are going to uproot themselves and be replaced by something more mainstream. also? my mom had twins and two ten pound boys without any drugs. I think it's definitely possible.
we plan to cloth diaper (again, unusual but gaining popularity, and totally what everyone did a few decades ago) and breastfeed for 12 months if at all possible, and anyway. yeah. I get that some things are less orthodox/mainstream. but daaaang.
growing a human being is pretty friggin incredible!
I have had many moments where pregnancy is totally not fun. I will spare you the details, and instead just say that literally since three days after the test was positive (and heck, even beforehand, when the test kept saying negative month after month) pregnancy has definitely had some "downs." But recently I can't help but keep thinking--I am creating a person. Like, growing and developing a HUMAN BEING. Clearly you can't get pregnant on your own, and please don't think I'm ignoring the whole divine plan thing, but I eat food and my body takes some of it and develops a brain or lungs or blood or skin or digestive organs, etc. I am the sole source of nutrients and support and LIFE for this little girl. Often when she gives a little kick or sticks her bottom out, I get this ridiculous grin on my face--because for one, there's a BABY in my belly and she gets to come home and live with us for a long long time. And for two, I can already tell that all of the "downs" from the last 8 months (and before) were totally worth it--because I have grown a human being. And if she were born today (which I sincerely hope she isn't! PLEASE wait!) she would very likely survive! It just, it blows my mind.
It's pretty powerful stuff. I must admit that sometimes when I get down and out (because my hips hurt, my feet are swelling, my nose is spreading, I miss beer, I can only eat half of a sandwich at a time, etc) I remind myself that I work harder in my sleep than most people work all day--and that I have grown a PERSON.
I am carrying my potential future grandchildren.
my friend courtney pointed this out to me--females are born having all of the eggs they'll ever have, right? which means all of cleona's eggs are already in her body, right now, just hanging out. a handful of those eggs will potentially become children some day. WHOA.
Friday, July 20, 2012
faaaaaaaaaabric. and caaaaabbbbbage.
um, hi.
so, I have a problem. two, really.
one? it's de swelling o' de feet. and it's NUTS. I have been experiencing it for a while now, but it has ratcheted into high gear. Like, most flip flops don't fit, and it's actually painful...and sometimes my toes or parts of my feet go numb.
so I've been doing all the things they tell you to do (increased fluid intake, lower salt, movement, elevating them, blah blah blah.) no dice.
yesterday, I tried another. I'd been a nice combination of skeptical and forgetful regarding it. here's what my feet looked like.
that, my friends, is cabbage. and elastic wrap stuff. did it help? eh, sort of, I think. did it feel good? well, it was cooling, so that was nice.
I put the rest of the cabbage in the fridge and will be trying it again with cool leaves. wish me luck!
next up, FABRIC. holy smokes, people. I am in lurrrrve with it. I mean, this is nothing new, really. I've been slowly collecting pretty fabric over the years. But now I have this STRONG DESIRE to peruse fabric. Purchase fabric. Craft with fabric.
A few eons ago I started making a quilt with my lovely friend Katie. With her help, the fabric was wonderfully cut, just how it should be. And that's as far as I've ever gotten. No, really...six weeks later I met Matt, and I kind of forgot about the fabric. While cleaning out our guest room closet to make an organized space for baby stuff and my craft stuff, I found the bag of it. Sadly, it's still going to sit because I desperately want to make a quilt for little Cleona. I have decided to do a mix of the oranges, purples, pinks and grays that we've been using for her room. And THEN I can think about when/if I'm going to do the other quilt.
I have also been wanting to make little girl clothes. And pillows. And so.much.stuff. So far (since we're still playing the purge from our house game--which is going SO AMAZINGLY well and I am blown away by the amount of stuff we've gotten rid of--you should be too, trust me) all I've done is sort and organize my fabric and make these guys.
I found a tutorial on pinterest, used fabric I already had, and bought some pretty stretch elastic for the headband part--I think it'll arrive today. I am totally making more!! They are SO easy, especially since I have mad flower-making skills from our paper flowers from our wedding.
Speaking of which....I FINALLY ordered our wedding album. It only took me two years and three months, but dammit, it is DONE and in the mail. I think it might arrive today actually. Perhaps my next post will include closet and wedding album pics! :)
so, I have a problem. two, really.
one? it's de swelling o' de feet. and it's NUTS. I have been experiencing it for a while now, but it has ratcheted into high gear. Like, most flip flops don't fit, and it's actually painful...and sometimes my toes or parts of my feet go numb.
so I've been doing all the things they tell you to do (increased fluid intake, lower salt, movement, elevating them, blah blah blah.) no dice.
yesterday, I tried another. I'd been a nice combination of skeptical and forgetful regarding it. here's what my feet looked like.
I put the rest of the cabbage in the fridge and will be trying it again with cool leaves. wish me luck!
next up, FABRIC. holy smokes, people. I am in lurrrrve with it. I mean, this is nothing new, really. I've been slowly collecting pretty fabric over the years. But now I have this STRONG DESIRE to peruse fabric. Purchase fabric. Craft with fabric.
A few eons ago I started making a quilt with my lovely friend Katie. With her help, the fabric was wonderfully cut, just how it should be. And that's as far as I've ever gotten. No, really...six weeks later I met Matt, and I kind of forgot about the fabric. While cleaning out our guest room closet to make an organized space for baby stuff and my craft stuff, I found the bag of it. Sadly, it's still going to sit because I desperately want to make a quilt for little Cleona. I have decided to do a mix of the oranges, purples, pinks and grays that we've been using for her room. And THEN I can think about when/if I'm going to do the other quilt.
I have also been wanting to make little girl clothes. And pillows. And so.much.stuff. So far (since we're still playing the purge from our house game--which is going SO AMAZINGLY well and I am blown away by the amount of stuff we've gotten rid of--you should be too, trust me) all I've done is sort and organize my fabric and make these guys.
I found a tutorial on pinterest, used fabric I already had, and bought some pretty stretch elastic for the headband part--I think it'll arrive today. I am totally making more!! They are SO easy, especially since I have mad flower-making skills from our paper flowers from our wedding.
Speaking of which....I FINALLY ordered our wedding album. It only took me two years and three months, but dammit, it is DONE and in the mail. I think it might arrive today actually. Perhaps my next post will include closet and wedding album pics! :)
Wednesday, July 18, 2012
our little small fry---the video.
last year, my friend Kat did something super-awesome before her little girl arrived...she had people send in pictures and her awesome husband Karl made a video from them. When I watched it, it made me cry! They had intentions of watching it during labor, but things went so quickly that they didn't.
Anyhoo, I am totally copying the heck out of her. (with her permission!)
This is the part where y'all come in: there will not be a video without your help!
Step one: Be awesome! (done.)
Step two: Find pictures, quotes, whatever to send in. This could be a picture of you with your baby. Or your friend's baby. It could be of your kiddos who are well past the baby-stage, too.
Perhaps you're short on pictures of you with kiddos--and that's fine too! Send in pictures with a momma. Or a pregnant friend. Or you while pregnant! Send in pictures you think I'll like. That will make me smile. Ones that make YOU smile, even! Or words of advice. Or make a jpg of a quote--about life, about love, about babies, about whatever!
Something funny. Something supportive. Something awesome. Your choice. :)
Really, there are no limitations here other than whatever you do, it needs to be a jpg. :)
Step three: email that sucker to our.small.fry [at] gmail.com (without the spaces, clearly). Do so by, well ASAP, but at the latest...let's see...I'm gonna say August 5th. Please do NOT send it to my email--it's supposed to be a surprise :D
Step four: revel in your fantasticness!
And thank you, a hundred times over, for helping us with our special day!
Anyhoo, I am totally copying the heck out of her. (with her permission!)
This is the part where y'all come in: there will not be a video without your help!
Step one: Be awesome! (done.)
Step two: Find pictures, quotes, whatever to send in. This could be a picture of you with your baby. Or your friend's baby. It could be of your kiddos who are well past the baby-stage, too.
Perhaps you're short on pictures of you with kiddos--and that's fine too! Send in pictures with a momma. Or a pregnant friend. Or you while pregnant! Send in pictures you think I'll like. That will make me smile. Ones that make YOU smile, even! Or words of advice. Or make a jpg of a quote--about life, about love, about babies, about whatever!
Something funny. Something supportive. Something awesome. Your choice. :)
Really, there are no limitations here other than whatever you do, it needs to be a jpg. :)
Step three: email that sucker to our.small.fry [at] gmail.com (without the spaces, clearly). Do so by, well ASAP, but at the latest...let's see...I'm gonna say August 5th. Please do NOT send it to my email--it's supposed to be a surprise :D
Step four: revel in your fantasticness!
And thank you, a hundred times over, for helping us with our special day!
Tuesday, July 17, 2012
asheville babymoon, p1.
let's start this out by admitting something: I am obsessed with food. local food, precisely. and also fruit and icecream. usually not icecream--but since being pregnant? yeppers. icecream. no pickle-obsession though. well, not more than I had to begin with.
but ANYWAY.
we left on the 4th of July figuring a) less traffic, b) it meant we could get in a "long weekend" and still come back in time to have a day at home before I had to get back to work. We had a leisurely AM, loaded up the car and got on the road.
stop one: sonic. for pete's sake WHY are all of the sonics 40+ minutes from my house? Please, Sonic, America's Drive-in, come to Durham. Thank you. And mmmmmm sonic blast. I've had quite a few of these on our travels recently :)
stop two: H0bby L0bby! My love of the hob-lob is well-documented. While I am SO glad that there's now one about 50 minutes-ish away (because before the closest ones were an hour and twenty minutes away, and then before that two and a half hours away) it's still far. I really wish Hobby Lobby would come to Durham too. If it did, along with Sonic, and since Blue Bell now exists in my part of NC, well....my life would be complete. Um, ish....
and then there was napping. lots of napping. (just for me--Matt was driving!) except Matt had strict instructions to wake me as soon as there were mountain views--and it was GORGEOUS! I love the blue ridge parkway. If you ever get to drive in that part of the state I highly recommend it!
We arrived to town, checked into our holiday inn (not super fancy BUT it meant we didn't spend lots of cash and had a jacuzzi tub in our room, so I got into that EVERY night and it felt fantastic!) and headed to Tupel0 H0ney Cafe, the South location. The food there was yummy (I took iphone pics, they are nothing special and not worth the hassle of uploading here) and we got to sit on their covered patio because it had cooled down a little. Sitting outside in pleasant weather, especially for a meal, makes me think of Italy EVERY time. :)
After that, we found fireworks! We could hear them starting at dinner--and Lake Julian was just 10 minutes or less away. We parked in a grocery store parking lot, watched for a while, went in to get fruit for me and beer for Matt, and went back out to see some more. I didn't need to see the whole show, but I DID need to see some real actual fireworks. Mission accomplished. After about 10 more minutes we got in our car to head back to the hotel--and got out just before traffic, it was wonderful! (we could see the mess starting as we were turning onto another road!)
On our way back was when we saw car-on-fire #2! It was actually a relief to see police and fire trucks on their way within 45 seconds of passing by the car. But it was bizarre to see plastic literally dripping off of the back of the vehicle--their rear hatch was open and even though all we did was drive by it, it was crazy.
Then it was time for a bath for me and some HGTV-watching for Matt. We also watched a movie and stayed up very very late since we knew we could sleep in. Ahhhhh relaxing. :)
but ANYWAY.
we left on the 4th of July figuring a) less traffic, b) it meant we could get in a "long weekend" and still come back in time to have a day at home before I had to get back to work. We had a leisurely AM, loaded up the car and got on the road.
stop one: sonic. for pete's sake WHY are all of the sonics 40+ minutes from my house? Please, Sonic, America's Drive-in, come to Durham. Thank you. And mmmmmm sonic blast. I've had quite a few of these on our travels recently :)
stop two: H0bby L0bby! My love of the hob-lob is well-documented. While I am SO glad that there's now one about 50 minutes-ish away (because before the closest ones were an hour and twenty minutes away, and then before that two and a half hours away) it's still far. I really wish Hobby Lobby would come to Durham too. If it did, along with Sonic, and since Blue Bell now exists in my part of NC, well....my life would be complete. Um, ish....
and then there was napping. lots of napping. (just for me--Matt was driving!) except Matt had strict instructions to wake me as soon as there were mountain views--and it was GORGEOUS! I love the blue ridge parkway. If you ever get to drive in that part of the state I highly recommend it!
We arrived to town, checked into our holiday inn (not super fancy BUT it meant we didn't spend lots of cash and had a jacuzzi tub in our room, so I got into that EVERY night and it felt fantastic!) and headed to Tupel0 H0ney Cafe, the South location. The food there was yummy (I took iphone pics, they are nothing special and not worth the hassle of uploading here) and we got to sit on their covered patio because it had cooled down a little. Sitting outside in pleasant weather, especially for a meal, makes me think of Italy EVERY time. :)
After that, we found fireworks! We could hear them starting at dinner--and Lake Julian was just 10 minutes or less away. We parked in a grocery store parking lot, watched for a while, went in to get fruit for me and beer for Matt, and went back out to see some more. I didn't need to see the whole show, but I DID need to see some real actual fireworks. Mission accomplished. After about 10 more minutes we got in our car to head back to the hotel--and got out just before traffic, it was wonderful! (we could see the mess starting as we were turning onto another road!)
On our way back was when we saw car-on-fire #2! It was actually a relief to see police and fire trucks on their way within 45 seconds of passing by the car. But it was bizarre to see plastic literally dripping off of the back of the vehicle--their rear hatch was open and even though all we did was drive by it, it was crazy.
Then it was time for a bath for me and some HGTV-watching for Matt. We also watched a movie and stayed up very very late since we knew we could sleep in. Ahhhhh relaxing. :)
Wednesday, July 11, 2012
henrietta clementine and baltimore
much to Matt's chagrin, that's the name of our car. I'm thinking about calling her Etta. Or Clementine. Y'know, going a little southern with it. :) It seems like it's really uncommon to go by your real actual first name 'round these here parts.
we even made sure she made a cameo in our 31 week maternity photo! We've taken her on two trips now--one up to Baltimore for Lauren and Stephen's wedding, and then to Asheville for our babymoon!
The wedding itself was super fun! I always have an extra good time seeing the Fry side of Matt's family because there are relatively close in age to us!
On Thursday Matt and I had a HECK of a time getting to the actual rehearsal dinner (we allowed TWO extra hours and were still an hour and twenty minutes late--damn traffic!) At the rehearsal Tonya and I sang "Love Shack" and I got some interesting looks as a pregnant woman walking around carrying a bottle of beer. Granted it was NON-ALCOHOLIC beer, but still. IT probably did look kind of ridiculous. But I was glad there were actual real options there--I got to have a kind I'd never had before!
On Friday we slept in (oh, blissful sleep!) and walked to get some dunkin donuts. I had an actual caffeinated latte and everything! (I've had relatively little caffeine during the course of this pregnancy) We also got some yummy donuts, breakfast sandwiches and water, because it.was.HOT. After that we walked to the liquor store and got Matt some just-in-case beer, and then we went swimming in the indoor pool at the hotel, hoping to ease my swollen feet.
By the way, Matt is the cutest. ever. When we go swimming (which, in general, is very rare due to my propensity for teeny tiny hives after exposure to the sun and his likelihood of getting swimmer's ear, but has been MUCH more frequent while I've been pregnant) and don't have a floaty toy, Matt acts as one for me. He has me hold onto his forearm or his shoulder and pulls me around the pool so I can work and stretch my legs and feet without needing to actually propel myself forward. It makes me happy.
< / mushiness > :)
After that it was time to go get my hair did. Aunt Teri very kindly offered everyone the chance to get their hair done if they liked, and I am SO glad I took her up on her generous offer. I LOVED my hair. I totally want to try it at home. The best part of all was that, since curls tend to fall out of my hair lickety split, the gal gave me a 'do that would still look good as the curls fell. LOVE it.
oh, and then we went back to the hotel. on our way we saw a car ON FIRE. like, fully ablaze. I've seen smoking cars or a car with a small bit of fire coming from the engine compartment--but this was fully lit. I called 911. It took 3.5 minutes to speak to a human, and even then they seemed nonplussed, and very annoyed that I wasn't actually *at* the intersection. but they said they'd send fire trucks, so that was good.
we went to our room to get ready and discovered that they had fixed our toilet, thank goodness. I failed to mention that--it stopped actually flushing. (Which we only found out after it needed flushing, of course. eeeeeew.)
We got dressed and went to take the 5pm shuttle. At 515 while we were waiting I broke down and went to the restroom--I couldn't take it anymore. At 517 the bus pulled up. At 518, I walked out of the bathroom to find there were 3 of us who needed on (Matt, me and our cousin Linda) and only room for one more on the shuttle. We decided to take a cab instead--and though I'm glad we did, timing-wise, it was also miserably hot!
The venue was fun and funky and I really loved it--it was the vision@ry art museum in b@ltimore. there was one teeny problem--the cocktail hour space wasn't air conditioned--but otherwise it was SO cool! And since Matt and I had forgotten to actually get a card, we bought one at the museum shop, and it couldn't've been more appropriate. See?
In the note to them I told them that those were also mighty fine character traits for marriages. :) I
At the cocktail hour I really enjoyed the fruit and veggies on display, and then it was ceremony time. It was really sweet, and I just loved seeing the looks on their faces! Then it was time for cocktail hour #2, when Matt cooled me off with yuengling bottles and I was grateful that the top of my dress was navy so you couldn't see my sweat :) It was followed by the usual--dinner, dancing, festivities--and some really sweet toasts. A fun wedding indeed with some cool details!
After the wedding we caught the shuttle back. This shuttle experience could be an entire post in itself...but I'll try to summarize. First, we waited in the wrong place (where it had dropped off) and since a storm was brewing, got literally sandblasted while we waited. Then, we saw the right place and felt like we might miss the bus--but got on and actually got seats! Right after turning onto the road we stopped waiting for a stop light (and worried about the potential projectiles the storm was moving--such as temporary street signs) and someone called the shuttle's attention to the apartment building on the left--where someone was watching PORN on a huge wall-mounted TV. Then, someone began singing "I've been workin' on the railroad..." at the pace of a dirge. We sang all of the parts of it. Then, when we stopped at the first hotel, someone started saying (rudely) "people with money, get off!" because it was the pricey place. Oh, and it was POURING so the people going to the h0liday inn who were standing in the aisle didn't want to move to let the others through. And then one we got to the h0liday inn, the driver let us off much farther away than he needed to--so we had to cross over the train tracks and then walked half a block in the POURING rain. And I lost my shoe and had trouble getting it back on and then picking it up, so I ended up walking into the hotel with only one shoe on. And almost fell in the process.
WHEW.
So we changed clothes and went to the after party at the hotel bar. We hung out in our little corner, G&T brought a computer for us to take home and we got to see all of the relatives again. Oh and there was a fun and then awkward exchange with some other guests who were getting married in a few weeks. We were talking about pregnancy and--you know those movie commercials where the ticket-taker says "enjoy the movie" and the patron says "you too!" and then feels silly? Well, the gal and I talked about some of the less glamorous parts of pregnancy and then she told me she hoped I enjoyed it--she meant the being a mom part, but it sounded like she was saying I should enjoy the stitches and tearing and pain. Oops! We giggled. I made it until ~1 or 130am when I said I just couldn't do it anymore--and was very proud of myself for making that long. Lauren (the bride) was really impressed too.
next up: Saturday!
we even made sure she made a cameo in our 31 week maternity photo! We've taken her on two trips now--one up to Baltimore for Lauren and Stephen's wedding, and then to Asheville for our babymoon!
The wedding itself was super fun! I always have an extra good time seeing the Fry side of Matt's family because there are relatively close in age to us!
On Thursday Matt and I had a HECK of a time getting to the actual rehearsal dinner (we allowed TWO extra hours and were still an hour and twenty minutes late--damn traffic!) At the rehearsal Tonya and I sang "Love Shack" and I got some interesting looks as a pregnant woman walking around carrying a bottle of beer. Granted it was NON-ALCOHOLIC beer, but still. IT probably did look kind of ridiculous. But I was glad there were actual real options there--I got to have a kind I'd never had before!
On Friday we slept in (oh, blissful sleep!) and walked to get some dunkin donuts. I had an actual caffeinated latte and everything! (I've had relatively little caffeine during the course of this pregnancy) We also got some yummy donuts, breakfast sandwiches and water, because it.was.HOT. After that we walked to the liquor store and got Matt some just-in-case beer, and then we went swimming in the indoor pool at the hotel, hoping to ease my swollen feet.
By the way, Matt is the cutest. ever. When we go swimming (which, in general, is very rare due to my propensity for teeny tiny hives after exposure to the sun and his likelihood of getting swimmer's ear, but has been MUCH more frequent while I've been pregnant) and don't have a floaty toy, Matt acts as one for me. He has me hold onto his forearm or his shoulder and pulls me around the pool so I can work and stretch my legs and feet without needing to actually propel myself forward. It makes me happy.
< / mushiness > :)
After that it was time to go get my hair did. Aunt Teri very kindly offered everyone the chance to get their hair done if they liked, and I am SO glad I took her up on her generous offer. I LOVED my hair. I totally want to try it at home. The best part of all was that, since curls tend to fall out of my hair lickety split, the gal gave me a 'do that would still look good as the curls fell. LOVE it.
oh, and then we went back to the hotel. on our way we saw a car ON FIRE. like, fully ablaze. I've seen smoking cars or a car with a small bit of fire coming from the engine compartment--but this was fully lit. I called 911. It took 3.5 minutes to speak to a human, and even then they seemed nonplussed, and very annoyed that I wasn't actually *at* the intersection. but they said they'd send fire trucks, so that was good.
we went to our room to get ready and discovered that they had fixed our toilet, thank goodness. I failed to mention that--it stopped actually flushing. (Which we only found out after it needed flushing, of course. eeeeeew.)
We got dressed and went to take the 5pm shuttle. At 515 while we were waiting I broke down and went to the restroom--I couldn't take it anymore. At 517 the bus pulled up. At 518, I walked out of the bathroom to find there were 3 of us who needed on (Matt, me and our cousin Linda) and only room for one more on the shuttle. We decided to take a cab instead--and though I'm glad we did, timing-wise, it was also miserably hot!
The venue was fun and funky and I really loved it--it was the vision@ry art museum in b@ltimore. there was one teeny problem--the cocktail hour space wasn't air conditioned--but otherwise it was SO cool! And since Matt and I had forgotten to actually get a card, we bought one at the museum shop, and it couldn't've been more appropriate. See?
At the cocktail hour I really enjoyed the fruit and veggies on display, and then it was ceremony time. It was really sweet, and I just loved seeing the looks on their faces! Then it was time for cocktail hour #2, when Matt cooled me off with yuengling bottles and I was grateful that the top of my dress was navy so you couldn't see my sweat :) It was followed by the usual--dinner, dancing, festivities--and some really sweet toasts. A fun wedding indeed with some cool details!
After the wedding we caught the shuttle back. This shuttle experience could be an entire post in itself...but I'll try to summarize. First, we waited in the wrong place (where it had dropped off) and since a storm was brewing, got literally sandblasted while we waited. Then, we saw the right place and felt like we might miss the bus--but got on and actually got seats! Right after turning onto the road we stopped waiting for a stop light (and worried about the potential projectiles the storm was moving--such as temporary street signs) and someone called the shuttle's attention to the apartment building on the left--where someone was watching PORN on a huge wall-mounted TV. Then, someone began singing "I've been workin' on the railroad..." at the pace of a dirge. We sang all of the parts of it. Then, when we stopped at the first hotel, someone started saying (rudely) "people with money, get off!" because it was the pricey place. Oh, and it was POURING so the people going to the h0liday inn who were standing in the aisle didn't want to move to let the others through. And then one we got to the h0liday inn, the driver let us off much farther away than he needed to--so we had to cross over the train tracks and then walked half a block in the POURING rain. And I lost my shoe and had trouble getting it back on and then picking it up, so I ended up walking into the hotel with only one shoe on. And almost fell in the process.
WHEW.
So we changed clothes and went to the after party at the hotel bar. We hung out in our little corner, G&T brought a computer for us to take home and we got to see all of the relatives again. Oh and there was a fun and then awkward exchange with some other guests who were getting married in a few weeks. We were talking about pregnancy and--you know those movie commercials where the ticket-taker says "enjoy the movie" and the patron says "you too!" and then feels silly? Well, the gal and I talked about some of the less glamorous parts of pregnancy and then she told me she hoped I enjoyed it--she meant the being a mom part, but it sounded like she was saying I should enjoy the stitches and tearing and pain. Oops! We giggled. I made it until ~1 or 130am when I said I just couldn't do it anymore--and was very proud of myself for making that long. Lauren (the bride) was really impressed too.
next up: Saturday!
Friday, June 22, 2012
pretty much linear. and my r-squared value is pretty high, too!
~me, to my OB.
At week fifteen I was, as the doctors put it, "weight neutral." I lost weight at the beginning, made it back up to my original weight and sat there and sat there. I was REALLY excited to gain, like, two pounds, according to my scale, at 17 weeks. I was showing by then (clearly) but I hadn't actually gained weight. It was all very bizarre.
and now I feel like I am growing at a rapid clip, even though technically I'm pretty much linear. If I keep up this rate I'll gain 28-ish pounds during pregnancy. And right now I really do feel like nearly all of it is belly! I can tell a different in my face, and of course parts of me are swelling (face. fingers a little.) but overall, wahoo!
as I say every time someone asks me how I'm feeling--"I'm feeling pretty good most of the time"--and I'llllllll take it. I know women who have had it so, so much worse.
other things:
-I'm starting to get a little anxious about labor. I think the prepared childbirth class will help with this. It's hard not knowing what to expect, really.
-I've started having little contractions. I know they're terribly normal. They don't hurt, but they're uncomfy. And sorry if this is TMI, but they make me feel like I have to pee very badly! It's a strange sensation.
-So far, no new stretch marks, no line in the middle of my belly button and I'm still an innie. I'm thinking my belly button is going to pop at some point though!
Oh and we have now driven three cars, researched a TON of them (multi-tab spreadsheets, people!) and are driving more tonight. I hope one of them is "the one" and we can be done with this process! But I don't want to not look around enough and regret it later!
At week fifteen I was, as the doctors put it, "weight neutral." I lost weight at the beginning, made it back up to my original weight and sat there and sat there. I was REALLY excited to gain, like, two pounds, according to my scale, at 17 weeks. I was showing by then (clearly) but I hadn't actually gained weight. It was all very bizarre.
and now I feel like I am growing at a rapid clip, even though technically I'm pretty much linear. If I keep up this rate I'll gain 28-ish pounds during pregnancy. And right now I really do feel like nearly all of it is belly! I can tell a different in my face, and of course parts of me are swelling (face. fingers a little.) but overall, wahoo!
as I say every time someone asks me how I'm feeling--"I'm feeling pretty good most of the time"--and I'llllllll take it. I know women who have had it so, so much worse.
other things:
-I'm starting to get a little anxious about labor. I think the prepared childbirth class will help with this. It's hard not knowing what to expect, really.
-I've started having little contractions. I know they're terribly normal. They don't hurt, but they're uncomfy. And sorry if this is TMI, but they make me feel like I have to pee very badly! It's a strange sensation.
-So far, no new stretch marks, no line in the middle of my belly button and I'm still an innie. I'm thinking my belly button is going to pop at some point though!
Oh and we have now driven three cars, researched a TON of them (multi-tab spreadsheets, people!) and are driving more tonight. I hope one of them is "the one" and we can be done with this process! But I don't want to not look around enough and regret it later!
Tuesday, June 19, 2012
swell!
that word sums up so much...how I feel (pretty swell), what my feet tend to do (swell up), how the cartilage attaching my ribs to my sternum is behaving (it's inflamed, and that means it tends to, you know, swell)...
etc.
BUT as pregnancy goes, I've got it pretty good, I think. This rib business is annoying (this is an explanation of my "condition") and I did actually get sick for my first time (I come from a long line of women who feel nauseated but don't actually get sick during pregnancy), so all in all, I shall count myself as lucky. :)
I want to remember to tell y'all about father's day weekend. So this is my note to self. It's better with pictures!
Oh and...so, another fun(ish) thing...Matt and I are going car shopping! After much debate we've decided that the new car, which will be a small SUV-ish type vehicle, will be "mine." I put fewer miles on a car in any given week than Matt does, so it'll help with that. But we will also use it to take our trips. We're keeping my Mattie the Mazda and his Dodge is going to that great big junkyard in the sky. Well, we're trading it in. We took it to get inspected, and knew it was leaking coolant, and it was going to be more to fix the dang thing than it is actually worth in trade-in. So....it's time.
Although we weren't really wanting to do this right now, we figured it's better that it's happening now than, say, two or three months from now when we have a little tiny baby. So we'll thank our lucky stars for that.
etc.
BUT as pregnancy goes, I've got it pretty good, I think. This rib business is annoying (this is an explanation of my "condition") and I did actually get sick for my first time (I come from a long line of women who feel nauseated but don't actually get sick during pregnancy), so all in all, I shall count myself as lucky. :)
I want to remember to tell y'all about father's day weekend. So this is my note to self. It's better with pictures!
Oh and...so, another fun(ish) thing...Matt and I are going car shopping! After much debate we've decided that the new car, which will be a small SUV-ish type vehicle, will be "mine." I put fewer miles on a car in any given week than Matt does, so it'll help with that. But we will also use it to take our trips. We're keeping my Mattie the Mazda and his Dodge is going to that great big junkyard in the sky. Well, we're trading it in. We took it to get inspected, and knew it was leaking coolant, and it was going to be more to fix the dang thing than it is actually worth in trade-in. So....it's time.
Although we weren't really wanting to do this right now, we figured it's better that it's happening now than, say, two or three months from now when we have a little tiny baby. So we'll thank our lucky stars for that.
Monday, May 14, 2012
it's funny, the power of just a few words.
I had planned to tell y'all all about my mother-to-be's day weekend. Matt made it delightful--to the extent that even though I'm not a huge fan of the holiday (it leaves people out), and even though I'm not sure if I'm qualified to celebrate it, I actually found myself really liking it!
but I digress...
so, today at 1130ish I got a phone call from a Tulsa number I didn't know. I decided to answer it. And it was my grandmother.
And as many of you know, interactions with my Granny tend to be....let's go with unpredictable. But I answered, and she immediately began to apologize that she hadn't called, tell me how she was overwhelmed by everything in life, thank me for remembering her on Mother's day, said she figured that she needed to let me go because I was at work, etc. I told her that no, I could talk for a few minutes.
So we talked about how she'd finally moved into her new apartment. And about how the floors had to be re-done, and she'd hired a new real estate person to sell her home, and how everything was still in boxes. And then she said "but enough about me, I want to know how things are going with you! and with your pregnancy!"
So I told her. And she listened, patiently, and commented, and asked questions. This hasn't happened for a good while now, you see...it seems like she's always got too much going on to talk about things like how things are in my life. Which is really okay--it seems like there's always a "fire" to put out in my family. But still. It was nice for her to ask.
We talked about how during the sonogram I could see our baby's BRAIN. And about the miracle of modern medicine. And I told her that I'd be calling her next Sunday to let her know if we're having a little girl or a little boy. We talked about how exciting it was to know, because in her time, and even for two of my mother's pregnancies, you couldn't find out the gender. And now you can!
I then asked her if there was anything I could do (from afar) to help with any of her stresses--and she said "you're doing it. Calling you and hopefully getting to talk to you was my treat to myself today."
:)
And then she said--"I want you to know, Carrie, how much I love you and your husband and your--well, your heir. Granddaddy and I both do. I know he's not here to tell you, but I want you to know you all are wrapped up in our love, every day, all the time. We love all three of you and are so happy for you and we are both so proud of you, Carrie. Every day, all the time. I just wanted to you to know that. I love you."
and then I began to cry.
and I also might've just cried while typing this. :)
And I'm sharing it with the blog-o-verse because I want to remember this moment. I know I will need it in the future. And I am so grateful for that little eight minute conversation with my grandmother this morning. So very, very grateful. And amazed at how much I needed to hear those few short sentences. :)
but I digress...
so, today at 1130ish I got a phone call from a Tulsa number I didn't know. I decided to answer it. And it was my grandmother.
And as many of you know, interactions with my Granny tend to be....let's go with unpredictable. But I answered, and she immediately began to apologize that she hadn't called, tell me how she was overwhelmed by everything in life, thank me for remembering her on Mother's day, said she figured that she needed to let me go because I was at work, etc. I told her that no, I could talk for a few minutes.
So we talked about how she'd finally moved into her new apartment. And about how the floors had to be re-done, and she'd hired a new real estate person to sell her home, and how everything was still in boxes. And then she said "but enough about me, I want to know how things are going with you! and with your pregnancy!"
So I told her. And she listened, patiently, and commented, and asked questions. This hasn't happened for a good while now, you see...it seems like she's always got too much going on to talk about things like how things are in my life. Which is really okay--it seems like there's always a "fire" to put out in my family. But still. It was nice for her to ask.
We talked about how during the sonogram I could see our baby's BRAIN. And about the miracle of modern medicine. And I told her that I'd be calling her next Sunday to let her know if we're having a little girl or a little boy. We talked about how exciting it was to know, because in her time, and even for two of my mother's pregnancies, you couldn't find out the gender. And now you can!
I then asked her if there was anything I could do (from afar) to help with any of her stresses--and she said "you're doing it. Calling you and hopefully getting to talk to you was my treat to myself today."
:)
And then she said--"I want you to know, Carrie, how much I love you and your husband and your--well, your heir. Granddaddy and I both do. I know he's not here to tell you, but I want you to know you all are wrapped up in our love, every day, all the time. We love all three of you and are so happy for you and we are both so proud of you, Carrie. Every day, all the time. I just wanted to you to know that. I love you."
and then I began to cry.
and I also might've just cried while typing this. :)
And I'm sharing it with the blog-o-verse because I want to remember this moment. I know I will need it in the future. And I am so grateful for that little eight minute conversation with my grandmother this morning. So very, very grateful. And amazed at how much I needed to hear those few short sentences. :)
Friday, May 11, 2012
"I've noticed something different about you..."
~my coworker.
So, now that I'm really-for-real-there's-no-doubt-if-I'm-pregnant-or-if-I-just-need-to-lay-off-the-beer, some people have started commenting.
For whatever reason they haven't heard, didn't know, etc. And their way of making sure their eyes aren't deceiving them makes me giggle.
some things I'm loving right now:
fruit, fruit, fruit and fruit.
no, really. today: green smoothie (spinach and kale, OJ, almond milk, frozen strawberries, frozen peaches, frozen pineapples, flax seed, brown rice protein powder and water. SO GOOD.) cantaloupe. blueberries.
and I've got strawberries, a pear and a banana on deck.
gap's pure body vneck tees.
they're the ones that made matt say I looked like "a fit pregnant woman." they are comfy, thick enough that I don't have to wear a tank under and fun colors!
gap's ribbed maternity tanks.
oh heavens to betsy, I had no idea how much I NEEEEEDED these before I got them. I have two right now and will be buying more because I'm pretty sure I'm going to live in them outside of work. they are wonderfully cut, flattering and don't have ruching on the side, which is spectacular when you want to sleep. they make me happy.
my doctor's office.
I had a very very very teeny tiny scary moment earlier this week. Short-lived, but I called the nurse line at my doctor's office. She said if it happens again they'll want to see me, but otherwise [insert eleven totally normal possible causes here]. This was on...um...maybe Wednesday? Or Tuesday. Anyway, this AM they called to follow up and left a message saying that the nurse had discussed it and all was well. :)
acupuncture.
fo rizzle. I've been going to see my acupuncturist for pretty basically six months now. He is kind of my personal hero. Just a little. :) I feel better, I genuinely believe that it helped with both conceiving a child and the resolution of our scary hemorrhage (but is not the only reason for either of those, of course!) and many other things. and yesterday, it helped with this pain I've been having in my ribs, the one right below my bra. He said he thought it was a pinched nerve, treated me for it and I am much improved today. Still not 100% but definitely feeling less like an old woman :D
not traveling so much.
don't get me wrong, I LOVE to travel. love, love, love. I want to make sure we travel a lot with Small Fry just so he/she will be accustomed to it. but man, it's been good to stay at home for almost two months straight!
we have some trips coming up--one to somewhere we haven't selected yet over memorial day weekend (I really want it to have a pool!), one to see my fabulous in-laws, one to attend our cousin's wedding...and then we stop. I hope to take one more just-the-two-of-us trip in mid July (close enough to not cause alarm with our doctors) but other than that, I think we are staying put!
that it's friday.
sakes alive, I'm really glad it's friday. this weekend is one of the fullest I've had in a looooong time (still working on paying off that camera!) but I am ultra glad it's the weekend still! 2 sessions in high point, a very short wedding and bridal portraits. and a prenatal massage and a trip to get burgers & brew here in d-town. :)
So, now that I'm really-for-real-there's-no-doubt-if-I'm-pregnant-or-if-I-just-need-to-lay-off-the-beer, some people have started commenting.
For whatever reason they haven't heard, didn't know, etc. And their way of making sure their eyes aren't deceiving them makes me giggle.
some things I'm loving right now:
fruit, fruit, fruit and fruit.
no, really. today: green smoothie (spinach and kale, OJ, almond milk, frozen strawberries, frozen peaches, frozen pineapples, flax seed, brown rice protein powder and water. SO GOOD.) cantaloupe. blueberries.
and I've got strawberries, a pear and a banana on deck.
gap's pure body vneck tees.
they're the ones that made matt say I looked like "a fit pregnant woman." they are comfy, thick enough that I don't have to wear a tank under and fun colors!
gap's ribbed maternity tanks.
oh heavens to betsy, I had no idea how much I NEEEEEDED these before I got them. I have two right now and will be buying more because I'm pretty sure I'm going to live in them outside of work. they are wonderfully cut, flattering and don't have ruching on the side, which is spectacular when you want to sleep. they make me happy.
my doctor's office.
I had a very very very teeny tiny scary moment earlier this week. Short-lived, but I called the nurse line at my doctor's office. She said if it happens again they'll want to see me, but otherwise [insert eleven totally normal possible causes here]. This was on...um...maybe Wednesday? Or Tuesday. Anyway, this AM they called to follow up and left a message saying that the nurse had discussed it and all was well. :)
acupuncture.
fo rizzle. I've been going to see my acupuncturist for pretty basically six months now. He is kind of my personal hero. Just a little. :) I feel better, I genuinely believe that it helped with both conceiving a child and the resolution of our scary hemorrhage (but is not the only reason for either of those, of course!) and many other things. and yesterday, it helped with this pain I've been having in my ribs, the one right below my bra. He said he thought it was a pinched nerve, treated me for it and I am much improved today. Still not 100% but definitely feeling less like an old woman :D
not traveling so much.
don't get me wrong, I LOVE to travel. love, love, love. I want to make sure we travel a lot with Small Fry just so he/she will be accustomed to it. but man, it's been good to stay at home for almost two months straight!
we have some trips coming up--one to somewhere we haven't selected yet over memorial day weekend (I really want it to have a pool!), one to see my fabulous in-laws, one to attend our cousin's wedding...and then we stop. I hope to take one more just-the-two-of-us trip in mid July (close enough to not cause alarm with our doctors) but other than that, I think we are staying put!
that it's friday.
sakes alive, I'm really glad it's friday. this weekend is one of the fullest I've had in a looooong time (still working on paying off that camera!) but I am ultra glad it's the weekend still! 2 sessions in high point, a very short wedding and bridal portraits. and a prenatal massage and a trip to get burgers & brew here in d-town. :)
Monday, May 07, 2012
things I hope to teach small fry some day. and all of our little frylings, too.
I'm sure I'll never think of them all. Ever, ever.
but the state in which I live is considering a very important constitutional amendment tomorrow. one that makes me think of all of the hate and close-mindedness that existed in oklahoma. and it just makes me shake my head and wonder why people's mothers didn't teach them any better.
so.
1. The golden rule. Do unto others as you would have others do undo you.
This is simple and covers a myriad of (potential) sins. Be kind. Smile. Share. Welcome. Love.
2. Do your best to avoid excluding others.
This could be covered by #1. But I think it deserves its own number. When I was younger my mom insisted that Anna and I both get invited to do things unless there were extenuating circumstances. It made for some really awkward moments where I had to call and ask my friend if Anna could please come to the pool party or whatever. Now, as a grown-up, I try to make sure I invite everyone I can. I try to make time for people. I try to talk to people who seem uncomfortable or out of place. Because it's important to me.
I want it to be important to the rest of my family, too.
3. Love. Accept. Encourage. Support. Respect.
I'm not sure this really needs an explanation, but it's getting one anyway. People are people. They are beings that deserve and are entitled to just as much space (physical and otherwise) as you. You may not agree with them. You may think their habits or choices or lifestyles are very different than what you would choose or embrace for yourself. It's okay to feel like you'd want something different--our differences are part of what make humanity incredible! It's okay to respect someone's right to choose even though you'd never choose that yourself. But it is not okay to hate. Or discriminate. Or judge. And that last one is probably the hardest of all.
It breaks my heart every time I see evidence of the self-importance of people. I disagree quite fervently with many people's opinions, political views, lifestyle choices and even, sometimes, their religion. Heck, I disagree with some aspects of my husband's religion, my future-godmother-of-my child's religion, and EVEN MY OWN RELIGION. But I, for one, agree to disagree. And for two, understand that everyone is entitled to their opinions/beliefs/ideas. But I want Small Fry to know how crucial it is that we all treat each other with kindness.
and now, we get a little less heavy....
4. There are hundreds of different colors that are classified as green or blue or yellow. And likewise, many many skin colors, eye colors, etc. that all get lumped into just a few. I want them to see them all and understand that crayola crayons are not the definitive answer. :)
5. The most valuable thing you have or are is YOU. And no one can ever take that away from you.
6. Music and math are the universal languages. Learn to speak them. Small Fry WILL learn to read music.
7. And speaking of reading, I want Small Fry to learn about the joys of reading. If he/she is anything like me, they will be an avid reader. And I want to reinforce that early. :)
8. Take good care of yourself. Wear sunscreen. Drink lots of water. Take your vitamins. This is the only body you've got--if you don't maintain it, you'll pay for it later.
9. Leave things better than they were when you found them. Thank you, Girl Scouts, for teaching me this. It applies to all things--places you visit, the earth as a whole, people you encounter. And it's one of my own personal little mantras. :)
but the state in which I live is considering a very important constitutional amendment tomorrow. one that makes me think of all of the hate and close-mindedness that existed in oklahoma. and it just makes me shake my head and wonder why people's mothers didn't teach them any better.
so.
1. The golden rule. Do unto others as you would have others do undo you.
This is simple and covers a myriad of (potential) sins. Be kind. Smile. Share. Welcome. Love.
2. Do your best to avoid excluding others.
This could be covered by #1. But I think it deserves its own number. When I was younger my mom insisted that Anna and I both get invited to do things unless there were extenuating circumstances. It made for some really awkward moments where I had to call and ask my friend if Anna could please come to the pool party or whatever. Now, as a grown-up, I try to make sure I invite everyone I can. I try to make time for people. I try to talk to people who seem uncomfortable or out of place. Because it's important to me.
I want it to be important to the rest of my family, too.
3. Love. Accept. Encourage. Support. Respect.
I'm not sure this really needs an explanation, but it's getting one anyway. People are people. They are beings that deserve and are entitled to just as much space (physical and otherwise) as you. You may not agree with them. You may think their habits or choices or lifestyles are very different than what you would choose or embrace for yourself. It's okay to feel like you'd want something different--our differences are part of what make humanity incredible! It's okay to respect someone's right to choose even though you'd never choose that yourself. But it is not okay to hate. Or discriminate. Or judge. And that last one is probably the hardest of all.
It breaks my heart every time I see evidence of the self-importance of people. I disagree quite fervently with many people's opinions, political views, lifestyle choices and even, sometimes, their religion. Heck, I disagree with some aspects of my husband's religion, my future-godmother-of-my child's religion, and EVEN MY OWN RELIGION. But I, for one, agree to disagree. And for two, understand that everyone is entitled to their opinions/beliefs/ideas. But I want Small Fry to know how crucial it is that we all treat each other with kindness.
and now, we get a little less heavy....
4. There are hundreds of different colors that are classified as green or blue or yellow. And likewise, many many skin colors, eye colors, etc. that all get lumped into just a few. I want them to see them all and understand that crayola crayons are not the definitive answer. :)
5. The most valuable thing you have or are is YOU. And no one can ever take that away from you.
6. Music and math are the universal languages. Learn to speak them. Small Fry WILL learn to read music.
7. And speaking of reading, I want Small Fry to learn about the joys of reading. If he/she is anything like me, they will be an avid reader. And I want to reinforce that early. :)
8. Take good care of yourself. Wear sunscreen. Drink lots of water. Take your vitamins. This is the only body you've got--if you don't maintain it, you'll pay for it later.
9. Leave things better than they were when you found them. Thank you, Girl Scouts, for teaching me this. It applies to all things--places you visit, the earth as a whole, people you encounter. And it's one of my own personal little mantras. :)
Sunday, May 06, 2012
our second anniversary
was in april. I didn't really blog about it. but I did want to chronicle it anyway.
the second year is cotton. matt got me some SUPER high thread count sheets. he is always taking such thoughtful care of me--y'see, that whole "huge burst of energy" you allegedly get in the second trimester? yeah, I call shenanigans. I've been sleeping every chance I get and taking a LOT of naps. Because my eyeballs don't seem to want to stay open.
so, since the second year is cotton, matt got me sheets. so I could be as comfy as possible during my many, many naps. :)
I did two things--one I've yet to finish. I got a LOT farther on our wedding album. I think I have six spreads to go and a few changes to make. But my goal is to finish it by the end of May. I am WAY pleased with how it turned out, and can't wait to order it!
Thing two, I made him a present. On cotton canvas! I freezer paper stenciled the state. I have wanted state art showing Oklahoma, Georgia and North Carolina (which all end in A's I just realized) for a long time--and still do. But I wanted to make something specific for the state where we met, and where our first child will be born. :)
we haven't decided where to hang it yet, but we will. Matt really liked it! It's the second piece of art I've given him. I still think the first is probably my best painting ever! Loved that trip, and that tree. And you know what's crazy? On that trip, which happened more than 5 years before we'll have a kiddo, we already pretty much knew our kiddo's names. Okay, well we for sure knew George's (people actually asked me if I was going to let Matt name a son GeorgeJosephFryIV on that trip--when we'd been dating for like 4 months! but I already knew the answer was yes, ha!) and I wasn't sure if I'd be going with Claire Cleona or Cleona Claire...but I knew those two, too. Crazy that we knew Small Fry's name that many moons ago. :)
the second year is cotton. matt got me some SUPER high thread count sheets. he is always taking such thoughtful care of me--y'see, that whole "huge burst of energy" you allegedly get in the second trimester? yeah, I call shenanigans. I've been sleeping every chance I get and taking a LOT of naps. Because my eyeballs don't seem to want to stay open.
so, since the second year is cotton, matt got me sheets. so I could be as comfy as possible during my many, many naps. :)
I did two things--one I've yet to finish. I got a LOT farther on our wedding album. I think I have six spreads to go and a few changes to make. But my goal is to finish it by the end of May. I am WAY pleased with how it turned out, and can't wait to order it!
Thing two, I made him a present. On cotton canvas! I freezer paper stenciled the state. I have wanted state art showing Oklahoma, Georgia and North Carolina (which all end in A's I just realized) for a long time--and still do. But I wanted to make something specific for the state where we met, and where our first child will be born. :)
Saturday, May 05, 2012
hello, my treacherous friends.
thank you for joining me here tonight.
~ok go
I have no idea why that song is stuck in my head, but it's been there for DAYS and DAYS. I think I need to break out ye olde ipod and rock out to some ok go. I was OBSESSED with their album over my christmas break my senior year of college. I went to see a show of theirs some place (OKC, maybe?) with my friend Dustin and some other people (look, my senior year is fuzzy. I think I was anemic!) and I couldn't stop listening after that! I remember sitting in my living room, being grateful that my apartment-mate I loathed was away for two whole weeks, and wrapping presents while listening to that cd over and over.
Oh, and watching 24. A guy named Josh from my reaction kinetics class encouraged me to check it out. I was hooked. I just watched. And watched. And watched. I think the blockbuster people thought I was nuts. Moving on...
A new plan is hatching at my home. And no, it's not at all related to Small Fry. It's related to food.
Y'see, previously I was soooooo good about menus. I'd make one for two weeks at a time, I'd research new recipes, we'd get the dishes into the dishwasher nearly every night...
but now? please let me tell you that I would be HORRIFIED if you walked into my kitchen at this moment. I think I need to clone myself and devote one whole half of me to housework. Anyway.
So, thanks to suggestions from a few helpful friends, we are trying something new. There is a 0% chance that we will be militant about it. I'm not a go-overboard-making-sure-this-happens kind of gal. But we plan on going through our recipe books and planning the menu together. Because I need to delegate some of the decision-making I'm having to do. Baby stuff + photography + work + offices + house changes + my family + meal planning = too many decisions I'm making simultaneously. So, I'm trying to pawn some of them off on other people. And Matt is my first victim. :)
With this in mind--I'm asking for recipe suggestions. The simpler the better. And if they are made with real food, that's the best of all. (e.g., hamburger helper? not what I want to be putting into my body. whole wheat noodles, veggies, organic/local meat, etc, though? sign me up!)
In the spirit of sharing--here's one of my favorite recipes. I think it's even better with fish (tilapia works wonderfully). I am more than a little obsessed with avocado right now, so this makes me extra happy :)
~ok go
I have no idea why that song is stuck in my head, but it's been there for DAYS and DAYS. I think I need to break out ye olde ipod and rock out to some ok go. I was OBSESSED with their album over my christmas break my senior year of college. I went to see a show of theirs some place (OKC, maybe?) with my friend Dustin and some other people (look, my senior year is fuzzy. I think I was anemic!) and I couldn't stop listening after that! I remember sitting in my living room, being grateful that my apartment-mate I loathed was away for two whole weeks, and wrapping presents while listening to that cd over and over.
Oh, and watching 24. A guy named Josh from my reaction kinetics class encouraged me to check it out. I was hooked. I just watched. And watched. And watched. I think the blockbuster people thought I was nuts. Moving on...
A new plan is hatching at my home. And no, it's not at all related to Small Fry. It's related to food.
Y'see, previously I was soooooo good about menus. I'd make one for two weeks at a time, I'd research new recipes, we'd get the dishes into the dishwasher nearly every night...
but now? please let me tell you that I would be HORRIFIED if you walked into my kitchen at this moment. I think I need to clone myself and devote one whole half of me to housework. Anyway.
So, thanks to suggestions from a few helpful friends, we are trying something new. There is a 0% chance that we will be militant about it. I'm not a go-overboard-making-sure-this-happens kind of gal. But we plan on going through our recipe books and planning the menu together. Because I need to delegate some of the decision-making I'm having to do. Baby stuff + photography + work + offices + house changes + my family + meal planning = too many decisions I'm making simultaneously. So, I'm trying to pawn some of them off on other people. And Matt is my first victim. :)
With this in mind--I'm asking for recipe suggestions. The simpler the better. And if they are made with real food, that's the best of all. (e.g., hamburger helper? not what I want to be putting into my body. whole wheat noodles, veggies, organic/local meat, etc, though? sign me up!)
In the spirit of sharing--here's one of my favorite recipes. I think it's even better with fish (tilapia works wonderfully). I am more than a little obsessed with avocado right now, so this makes me extra happy :)
Friday, May 04, 2012
"you look like a fit pregnant woman"
that phrase, my friends, was music to my ears. Matt said it to me after I tried on a new maternity shirt from the Gap. (this one, in orange) I wore it to work and one of my coworkers/friends said hello to me as she walked by my workstation. And then actually backtracked to say "WOW, that color looks great on you!"
:)
I've a feeling that I am going to miss some of my maternity clothes this time next year.
I am sure that I will also welcome the return of my abdominal muscles. And I'll enjoy wearing normal jeans and not having to push with my arms in order to stand up without groaning. And sleeping on my stomach. Oh and BEER. For the love of all that is holy, beer.
Which, by the way--I went to the birthday party of a very cute little girl on Saturday. She turned one and I've been photographing her this year, and I think her momma is the bees knees. While there another pregnant gal (and another one of my photography clients) and I were chatting and I said how sad I was that there seemed to be no such thing as a non-alcoholic wheat beer. That 0'd0uls Amber actually wasn't half bad, but that I'm a seasonal beer drinker (I like dark stouts in the winter and wheats in the summer and the spicy pumpkin ones in the fall--though please, please let me skip the IPAs) and I miss the wheat.
one of the guests at the party who was probably old enough to by my parent or uncle said "you miss BEER?!?!" quite incredulously. I responded with "yes, I do. We're kind of beer nerds--we visit breweries, like tasting beers and even brew our own." He just stared. And then in response I said "I've had a couple of different non-alcoholic beers and most of them aren't good at all, but there's one that is. But really I just wish there was a wheat one!" He said, "wait, you can HAVE non-alcoholic beer??? Isn't there still alcohol in there?" [also, WHAT?!? who is this dude?]
I said "um, yeah. It's like 0.5 %. You get more alcohol than that rinsing out your mouth with Listerine."
He said half jokingly/half serious "you shouldn't drink Listerine."
I said "oh, no, I mean, when you use Listerine the alcohol absorbs through your tongue. I don't mean drinking it." and smiled real big.
And then, thankfully, someone else came into the room and the convo changed. Such strangeness!
(and before anybody decides to lecture--I've had a maximum of two in one sitting, I am very well hydrated and seriously?!? there are bigger fish to fry!)
:)
I've a feeling that I am going to miss some of my maternity clothes this time next year.
I am sure that I will also welcome the return of my abdominal muscles. And I'll enjoy wearing normal jeans and not having to push with my arms in order to stand up without groaning. And sleeping on my stomach. Oh and BEER. For the love of all that is holy, beer.
Which, by the way--I went to the birthday party of a very cute little girl on Saturday. She turned one and I've been photographing her this year, and I think her momma is the bees knees. While there another pregnant gal (and another one of my photography clients) and I were chatting and I said how sad I was that there seemed to be no such thing as a non-alcoholic wheat beer. That 0'd0uls Amber actually wasn't half bad, but that I'm a seasonal beer drinker (I like dark stouts in the winter and wheats in the summer and the spicy pumpkin ones in the fall--though please, please let me skip the IPAs) and I miss the wheat.
one of the guests at the party who was probably old enough to by my parent or uncle said "you miss BEER?!?!" quite incredulously. I responded with "yes, I do. We're kind of beer nerds--we visit breweries, like tasting beers and even brew our own." He just stared. And then in response I said "I've had a couple of different non-alcoholic beers and most of them aren't good at all, but there's one that is. But really I just wish there was a wheat one!" He said, "wait, you can HAVE non-alcoholic beer??? Isn't there still alcohol in there?" [also, WHAT?!? who is this dude?]
I said "um, yeah. It's like 0.5 %. You get more alcohol than that rinsing out your mouth with Listerine."
He said half jokingly/half serious "you shouldn't drink Listerine."
I said "oh, no, I mean, when you use Listerine the alcohol absorbs through your tongue. I don't mean drinking it." and smiled real big.
And then, thankfully, someone else came into the room and the convo changed. Such strangeness!
(and before anybody decides to lecture--I've had a maximum of two in one sitting, I am very well hydrated and seriously?!? there are bigger fish to fry!)
Thursday, May 03, 2012
salsa pasta!
nom nom nom.
I have no idea if I ever ever shared this, but I LOVE it! Matt will tell you I'm quite picky about eating leftovers. Generally I'm willing to have them ONE more time and that's it. There are a few exceptions to this rule--pumpkin pie, mexican casserole and, of course, salsa pasta. I'm sure there are a few others, too. But anyway, yum!
to make:
shell pasta
1 small/medium yellow onion, diced
1 can of corn (I prefer no-salt-added, just plain old yellow corn)
1 or more bell peppers. (I used red this time. Sometimes I do green and orange to make this colorful!)
1 jar Pace thick and chunky (do NOT use picante sauce. I also highly recommend Pace for this--most salsas are too watery)
1 can diced tomatoes (or rotel. or fresh tomatoes. or whatever.)
cook the pasta! I usually use half a box. I've done a whole box before, too. It depends on how many people are eating it, how long I want it to last, etc. You can always add more salsa, tomatoes and/or seasoning to fill out the dish.
while it cooks, chop the things that need chopping.
drain pasta.
put a little (just a little!) oil in the pan you used and saute the onions and peppers juuuuuust a little.
add in tomatoes (reserve liquid) and some salsa. I usually use 1/2 of the jar (the bigger jar of salsa is the one I use). Let simmer for a few while you drain & rinse the corn. Then add the corn. Followed by the pasta.
stir it all up, make sure it's nice and mixed up.
add cheese! if you plan on having leftovers, I recommend putting the salsa pasta into the individual serving size bowls and putting the cheese on there. If you think you'll polish off most of it that night, then you can put the cheese in directly!
and enjoy! it makes a GREAT lunch and is quite yummy!
I have no idea if I ever ever shared this, but I LOVE it! Matt will tell you I'm quite picky about eating leftovers. Generally I'm willing to have them ONE more time and that's it. There are a few exceptions to this rule--pumpkin pie, mexican casserole and, of course, salsa pasta. I'm sure there are a few others, too. But anyway, yum!
to make:
shell pasta
1 small/medium yellow onion, diced
1 can of corn (I prefer no-salt-added, just plain old yellow corn)
1 or more bell peppers. (I used red this time. Sometimes I do green and orange to make this colorful!)
1 jar Pace thick and chunky (do NOT use picante sauce. I also highly recommend Pace for this--most salsas are too watery)
1 can diced tomatoes (or rotel. or fresh tomatoes. or whatever.)
cook the pasta! I usually use half a box. I've done a whole box before, too. It depends on how many people are eating it, how long I want it to last, etc. You can always add more salsa, tomatoes and/or seasoning to fill out the dish.
while it cooks, chop the things that need chopping.
drain pasta.
put a little (just a little!) oil in the pan you used and saute the onions and peppers juuuuuust a little.
add in tomatoes (reserve liquid) and some salsa. I usually use 1/2 of the jar (the bigger jar of salsa is the one I use). Let simmer for a few while you drain & rinse the corn. Then add the corn. Followed by the pasta.
stir it all up, make sure it's nice and mixed up.
add cheese! if you plan on having leftovers, I recommend putting the salsa pasta into the individual serving size bowls and putting the cheese on there. If you think you'll polish off most of it that night, then you can put the cheese in directly!
and enjoy! it makes a GREAT lunch and is quite yummy!
Wednesday, May 02, 2012
22 and 23
oopsie! I am behind on baby bump pics. From here on out I will probably just put them on our small fry website (though clearly these aren't on there, either!)
also, I am THRILLED that it's May now. Because that means in less than 3 weeks we will know if this is little Cleona or little George in my tummy! I am loving the little kicks though! sometimes they startle me, but they never fail to make me smile. :)
23 in gray and 24 in green.
do you think we should do a gender/date/weight poll? anything else you think we should ask in it? and any suggestions of websites to create it?
also, I am THRILLED that it's May now. Because that means in less than 3 weeks we will know if this is little Cleona or little George in my tummy! I am loving the little kicks though! sometimes they startle me, but they never fail to make me smile. :)
23 in gray and 24 in green.
do you think we should do a gender/date/weight poll? anything else you think we should ask in it? and any suggestions of websites to create it?
Tuesday, May 01, 2012
little change = big impact.
No one would look at our kitchen and call it tiny. It's actually quite sizable. But as a girl who loves her kitchen gear, and as someone who loves to cook, I am going to call it inefficient.
There's a big chunk of counter wedged behind our sink, useless and collecting random items. There are only two real drawers, and the folks who built this house made the unfortunate choice not to upgrade the cabinets to the tall ones--so ours are kind of squat and don't house as much as I would like.
And our pantry--though we are really glad to have a pantry--is skinny and deep, making it a bear to keep organized.
So. All of this it to tell you that on Sunday, while at Target, I spent $38 on two baskets. And they make me immensely happy. They sit on top of our refrigerator. This is where our boxes of cereal and various bread-ish items (english muffins, whole wheat bread, bagels, etc.) now live. Before they just kind of splayed out across the top of the refrigerator. But now they look nice. And are organized. AND I can lift them off without too much trouble! (Being pregnant has left much desired regarding my ability to reach for anything on a high shelf!)
Ain't they grand?
Also, on....um...a day last weekend, I can't quite remember which. Probably Saturday? Definitely Saturday. Oh, baby brain.
So, on Saturday we went to whole f00ds to mosey about and get some steaks and the like, and I decided to check out the protein powders. Ever since we got that positive test I've worried about my protein intake--because you need MORE when you're pregnant and I am just not a huge fan of meat in general. That and sushi is off the menu (well, sort of ) and for a while I found all chicken repulsive! And I've been avoiding cold lunch meat too. So I was eating edamame daily and snacking on peanut butter and having nuts and eating greek yogurt basically doing whatever I could to sneak in protein. And then, months ago, I asked my doctor about protein powder and got the go ahead--and what a relief it was, since mixing some and chugging it was easier than psyching myself up to eat whatever it was.
BUT. The one I picked had stevia in it. And I could taste it every time I used it. And I didn't want to be wasteful, but I also didn't want it. So we looked for alternatives--and I found this. And it tastes better, has fewer ingredients (and none unpronounceable!) and and and--no artificial sweetener! And double bonus, it doesn't foam up in my magic bullet like the other did. Yay for green smoothies without foam!
There's a big chunk of counter wedged behind our sink, useless and collecting random items. There are only two real drawers, and the folks who built this house made the unfortunate choice not to upgrade the cabinets to the tall ones--so ours are kind of squat and don't house as much as I would like.
And our pantry--though we are really glad to have a pantry--is skinny and deep, making it a bear to keep organized.
So. All of this it to tell you that on Sunday, while at Target, I spent $38 on two baskets. And they make me immensely happy. They sit on top of our refrigerator. This is where our boxes of cereal and various bread-ish items (english muffins, whole wheat bread, bagels, etc.) now live. Before they just kind of splayed out across the top of the refrigerator. But now they look nice. And are organized. AND I can lift them off without too much trouble! (Being pregnant has left much desired regarding my ability to reach for anything on a high shelf!)
Also, on....um...a day last weekend, I can't quite remember which. Probably Saturday? Definitely Saturday. Oh, baby brain.
So, on Saturday we went to whole f00ds to mosey about and get some steaks and the like, and I decided to check out the protein powders. Ever since we got that positive test I've worried about my protein intake--because you need MORE when you're pregnant and I am just not a huge fan of meat in general. That and sushi is off the menu (well, sort of ) and for a while I found all chicken repulsive! And I've been avoiding cold lunch meat too. So I was eating edamame daily and snacking on peanut butter and having nuts and eating greek yogurt basically doing whatever I could to sneak in protein. And then, months ago, I asked my doctor about protein powder and got the go ahead--and what a relief it was, since mixing some and chugging it was easier than psyching myself up to eat whatever it was.
Monday, April 30, 2012
if you [buy] it, they will come.
~field of dreams.
On the 5th of April I was notified that the camera I'd been dreaming of was on its way to my front door. It's the C@non 5D Mark III. Since the Mark II was released, I've wanted a full frame camera. Since the 7D was released (and since I bought it and fell in love) I've been wanting the Mark II and 7D to get together and have a baby. :) I've been waiting for years, really.
So when the notice came out that this camera was being released and available for pre-order, it took all of my wherewithal not to place my order right then. Y'see, as an quick g00gle search will tell you, this camera was not cheap. Or even reasonably priced. It cost more than the first car I bought for myself--my 1990 honda accord. It's $3,499. A pretty, pretty penny.
I decided to be a responsible wife and consult my dear husband. (We discuss most financial matters, but money for my photography business isn't often discussed because, as Matt puts it, it's my business, it's my money, and it's paying for itself and then some, so it's really all up to me.) But since this was hands down the biggest single photography purchase I'd ever made, I figured it was time.
His response: Um, honey, haven't you been waiting for this to come out for YEARS? [me: sheepish nod.]
followed by: So, will photography this year pay for the camera? [me: you know what? it totally will!]
I was a little worried because, as of that time, I only had two more weddings on the books for this year--a fabulous one in Oklahoma in March and another in April. I was sort of relieved about how it all worked out--because, well, I'm pretty certain Small Fry will soon be expressing his/her opinions regarding the toll that photography takes on my body, and because I didn't want to still have photos to edit after his/her arrival. The remaining payments from that wedding + the scheduled sessions did not equal the rest of the amount I owed. BUT I was confident that I'd make it--I'd need 18 half sessions. Or 12 full sessions or newborns. Or 31 minis. Or some combination that would make that come up to at least $3499. Even if business was suuuper slow, I knew that come December it would happen. Plus I knew I had headshots on the horizon, which was going to help.
and then...
I got an inquiry for maternity photos
And they increased the number of headshots they wanted
And I booked some grad photos at a discounted rate
And I booked a newborn session
Someone wants some out-of-town family photos
And I booked a 3 hour wedding (at a reduced rate, long story)
I have two minis this coming weekend
And a newborn session
And bridals
Someone booked another package of sessions
And I should have another newborn in June
and I have more inquiries coming in... which well exceeds the cost of my new camera! And doesn't include either of the final payments for my weddings. I promise I am not bragging--more than anything I am just overwhelmed by the way it's all worked out. And so very, very thankful. When I decided to pull the trigger, in early March, the only "for sure" things on this list were the headshots and maternity photos. I though the out-of-town photos were going to happen, but the dates/times/places/etc were all pretty nebulous so I knew better than to count on it.
I remember very distinctly when I bought my first DSLR. Thinking to myself that I'd have that camera for, like, ever. And how it was such an investment...and here I sit, four years later...just WOW.
Oh, life, thank you for being the coolest of the cool. And universe, thank you kindly for reaffirming my decision to invest further in my business. Kisses to both of you. :)
On the 5th of April I was notified that the camera I'd been dreaming of was on its way to my front door. It's the C@non 5D Mark III. Since the Mark II was released, I've wanted a full frame camera. Since the 7D was released (and since I bought it and fell in love) I've been wanting the Mark II and 7D to get together and have a baby. :) I've been waiting for years, really.
So when the notice came out that this camera was being released and available for pre-order, it took all of my wherewithal not to place my order right then. Y'see, as an quick g00gle search will tell you, this camera was not cheap. Or even reasonably priced. It cost more than the first car I bought for myself--my 1990 honda accord. It's $3,499. A pretty, pretty penny.
I decided to be a responsible wife and consult my dear husband. (We discuss most financial matters, but money for my photography business isn't often discussed because, as Matt puts it, it's my business, it's my money, and it's paying for itself and then some, so it's really all up to me.) But since this was hands down the biggest single photography purchase I'd ever made, I figured it was time.
His response: Um, honey, haven't you been waiting for this to come out for YEARS? [me: sheepish nod.]
followed by: So, will photography this year pay for the camera? [me: you know what? it totally will!]
I was a little worried because, as of that time, I only had two more weddings on the books for this year--a fabulous one in Oklahoma in March and another in April. I was sort of relieved about how it all worked out--because, well, I'm pretty certain Small Fry will soon be expressing his/her opinions regarding the toll that photography takes on my body, and because I didn't want to still have photos to edit after his/her arrival. The remaining payments from that wedding + the scheduled sessions did not equal the rest of the amount I owed. BUT I was confident that I'd make it--I'd need 18 half sessions. Or 12 full sessions or newborns. Or 31 minis. Or some combination that would make that come up to at least $3499. Even if business was suuuper slow, I knew that come December it would happen. Plus I knew I had headshots on the horizon, which was going to help.
and then...
I got an inquiry for maternity photos
And they increased the number of headshots they wanted
And I booked some grad photos at a discounted rate
And I booked a newborn session
Someone wants some out-of-town family photos
And I booked a 3 hour wedding (at a reduced rate, long story)
I have two minis this coming weekend
And a newborn session
And bridals
Someone booked another package of sessions
And I should have another newborn in June
and I have more inquiries coming in... which well exceeds the cost of my new camera! And doesn't include either of the final payments for my weddings. I promise I am not bragging--more than anything I am just overwhelmed by the way it's all worked out. And so very, very thankful. When I decided to pull the trigger, in early March, the only "for sure" things on this list were the headshots and maternity photos. I though the out-of-town photos were going to happen, but the dates/times/places/etc were all pretty nebulous so I knew better than to count on it.
I remember very distinctly when I bought my first DSLR. Thinking to myself that I'd have that camera for, like, ever. And how it was such an investment...and here I sit, four years later...just WOW.
Oh, life, thank you for being the coolest of the cool. And universe, thank you kindly for reaffirming my decision to invest further in my business. Kisses to both of you. :)
Monday, April 16, 2012
small fry's diet
so, we're 21 weeks now, going strong on 22. the halfway point, y'see. I definitely look more pregnant and less like I have a beer belly :)
and for posterity, here's 19 (blue stripe) and 20 (brown stripe)
this week we registered. and small fry visited two durham breweries (no worries, I drank boylan soda one place and tea from a mason jar at the other!). and met uncle sterling. who henceforth shall be known as drunkle sterling! I also bought small fry some baby books--a bunch of them for 10 cents a piece at our nearby thrift store and also one about pant0ne colors. I feel like it is VERY important for kiddos to see that there are many colors that can be classified as green or yellow or purple. And, let's be honest, it looks pretty. perhaps I will take photos.
also, people have been telling me that I am small, small, SMALL for 21 weeks. I have literally gained two or three pounds. (our bathroom scale is analog. mostly to prevent any level of obsession about, say, 0.4 lbs or something) I asked my doctor about it and she said not to worry--for one I would definitely gain it, but for two I was doing just fine.
during this same appointment I asked a question I NEVER thought I would say. first, a photo:
I asked my nice doctor--"Is it possible to get too many servings of fruits and vegetables in a day?! [pause] because I think I'm getting like 8 or 9."
She laughed. And then said no. But seriously y'all...today I had some orange juice when I got up, then a green smoothie with breakfast. I had pineapple, cantaloupe and strawberries. And carrots and bell peppers. And a spinach salad (with eggs, artichokes, almonds, red onion et al) for lunch. And I'm about to have that chocolate milk with an apple for a snack. LOTS of fruits and veggies. LOTS. I had banana in my green smoothie and will probably have one later today. We'll see if I have the v8.
I definitely get enough protein. When I was feeling crappy I was having a protein shake in the morning (a doctor-approved one) just to make sure I was getting it. Now I don't have to try so hard--but I've learned that even things like goldfish and raisin bran have enough of it to really "count." We're having meat most days, too. Chicken tacos (leftovers) yesterday, corned beef the day before (and some bacon), tonight we're having fish, etc. Anyway, Matt told me how impressed he is with my eating during pregnancy. (though let's qualify that with a so far.) I've been enjoying some nutella and mamba chews and fruit snacks, too. And other not-so-wholesome choices too. But overall, I just really want fruits and veggies. :)
and for posterity, here's 19 (blue stripe) and 20 (brown stripe)
also, people have been telling me that I am small, small, SMALL for 21 weeks. I have literally gained two or three pounds. (our bathroom scale is analog. mostly to prevent any level of obsession about, say, 0.4 lbs or something) I asked my doctor about it and she said not to worry--for one I would definitely gain it, but for two I was doing just fine.
during this same appointment I asked a question I NEVER thought I would say. first, a photo:
She laughed. And then said no. But seriously y'all...today I had some orange juice when I got up, then a green smoothie with breakfast. I had pineapple, cantaloupe and strawberries. And carrots and bell peppers. And a spinach salad (with eggs, artichokes, almonds, red onion et al) for lunch. And I'm about to have that chocolate milk with an apple for a snack. LOTS of fruits and veggies. LOTS. I had banana in my green smoothie and will probably have one later today. We'll see if I have the v8.
I definitely get enough protein. When I was feeling crappy I was having a protein shake in the morning (a doctor-approved one) just to make sure I was getting it. Now I don't have to try so hard--but I've learned that even things like goldfish and raisin bran have enough of it to really "count." We're having meat most days, too. Chicken tacos (leftovers) yesterday, corned beef the day before (and some bacon), tonight we're having fish, etc. Anyway, Matt told me how impressed he is with my eating during pregnancy. (though let's qualify that with a so far.) I've been enjoying some nutella and mamba chews and fruit snacks, too. And other not-so-wholesome choices too. But overall, I just really want fruits and veggies. :)
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
popcorn popping + bubbles + leaves rustling
what do they all have in common? they describe what it feels like when the small fry moves!
I would give you my Girl Scout's honor that at almost 15 weeks I felt the baby move. It felt like leaves rustling and felt like it was happening very, very low in my body. My good friend g00gle told me this was unlikely.
But now that I KNOW what I'm feeling is the baby moving about, I'm quite certain that's what I felt before. I've felt the small fry move at least once a day for the past few days. And it is FUN. I am sure that later I will not think this is fun. I imagine my ribs and innards will all be kind of annoyed by the whole situation. But for now, I shall enjoy it!
I am also really super glad that our news is OUT. Tomorrow I officially announce it at work, though my boss and some coworkers know. But other than that, our proverbial cat is out of the bag!
We've also started taking the weekly-ish photos. We waited until 17 weeks to do this! Not totally by choice, but still. The solid green is the 17 weeks (it was St Patty's Day and my awesome in-laws got me that necklace to wear, and one for Matt too!). The one on the right is 18 weeks. You might think I look a little smaller at 18 weeks--and this is probably true because of the time of day. It is CRAZY how much smaller my little belly bump looks in the AM than it does at night. And we took the 17 week one right before it was time for pajamas! Plus, the ruched maternity shirts make you look bigger, I think!
Soon I'll tell about Disney. And probably recap Tennessee even though that's old news. I should probably make a list. :)
I would give you my Girl Scout's honor that at almost 15 weeks I felt the baby move. It felt like leaves rustling and felt like it was happening very, very low in my body. My good friend g00gle told me this was unlikely.
But now that I KNOW what I'm feeling is the baby moving about, I'm quite certain that's what I felt before. I've felt the small fry move at least once a day for the past few days. And it is FUN. I am sure that later I will not think this is fun. I imagine my ribs and innards will all be kind of annoyed by the whole situation. But for now, I shall enjoy it!
I am also really super glad that our news is OUT. Tomorrow I officially announce it at work, though my boss and some coworkers know. But other than that, our proverbial cat is out of the bag!
Soon I'll tell about Disney. And probably recap Tennessee even though that's old news. I should probably make a list. :)
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