Jeanne's Blog

I'm 9 Months Old!

2009-05-20T10:06:00.003-04:00

I turned 9 months old this past Monday. I'm now 18 lbs 10 oz, 29.75 inches tall, and have a big head (25%/90%/90%)- tall and lean just like Daddy.

9 MONTH PORTRAITS

Williamsburg Vacation

2009-05-18T09:45:00.007-04:00

Mommy, Daddy, and I met Nana and Grandpa (Gerdes) in Williamsburg, VA for our first big family vacation. We spent the week visiting Colonial Williamsburg, Busch Gardens, and the Virginia Zoo in Norfolk. We even got to see Uncle Fuzzy and some of Nana and Grandpa's friends who happened to be in the area at the same time. Unfortunately, it rained every day we were there- but I'm happy that I got to hang out and spend time with my family. It was especially nice seeing daddy all day for 11 days in a row!

I liked helping Daddy hold the umbrella while strolling around in the front pack. We saw so many school kids in Colonial Williamsburg; the girls really made me laugh and smile. I hope they didn't get into too much trouble from their teachers!

Daddy really loves this photo of me. See my big chiclets peeping out from my top gums?

Daddy calls me his little Dalai Llama- especially when it seems like I'm looking out into the world and considering important matters.

I've been working on a few words, such as Dada, Mama, and Baba. While on vacation, I was inspired to say "Papa". I loved watching Grandpapa talk and move those white whiskers around.

As you may know, Mommy likes to share her love of elephants with me.

Swimming rocks! This was my first time ever in a pool and I dare say, I loved it!

The water did taste different than my bath water, but no matter, I still had so much fun.

I spent most of my time chewing on the boat handle and kicking my legs like a duck.

Maryland Visit

2009-05-15T09:46:00.006-04:00

Mom, Dad, and I returned last Sunday from a wonderful vacation in Williamsburg, Virginia. On the way down and back, we stopped in Frederick, MD to visit with Auntie Jen, Uncle Eric, and Cousin Eli. We drove a lot, and there were times when I really wanted to be out of the car, but overall, I didn't mind the drive at all and spent most of the time talking, playing, or sleeping.

Since I don't have much hair, Mom decided it would be fun to play with Eli's long locks. I can't wait to get a cool faux hawk too!

We all went out for a grand Mexican lunch in Historic Frederick. Eli tried a lemon for the first time and made the funniest sourpuss!

I've been experimenting with a new face lately. If I don't like something, I will close my eyes, purse my lips, and shake my head. Mommy and Daddy think it's the funniest thing and laugh and laugh. I guess they wonder if I am doing this more for the attention or if I'm trying to communicate "no".

I love Auntie Jen so much and wish we could see her more often. Maybe one day Mommy will get to live in Maryland again and will take me and Daddy with her.

I got to see some of Mommy's old friends again: Christy and her new fiance John, Sonya, Dave, Brittney, and Emma. There was always someone willing to hold me while we walked around Frederick. Who needs a stroller when Mom has friends who think I am super cute? This was the night we had dinner at a Spanish restaurant and I didn't get to bed until after 9 pm- my latest bedtime ever! I also slept on my tummy for the first time.

April Highlights

2009-05-14T10:02:00.004-04:00

I have 4 teeth now and like to practice sitting, standing, and reading books, such as Dancing With Degas, Prayer for a Child, Hello Bee Hello Me, Are You My Mother, Five Little Ladybugs, and The Runaway Bunny. Mom thinks it's so cool that I love to spend playtime opening and closing my books and turning pages.

It's been raining a lot this month, so we don't take a lot of long walks. But Mommy did start a Mom's Group at church, so we still get out and meet new friends. I've also been babbling a lot, especially when I am tired and punchy. Mom and Dad get super excited when I say Mama, Dada, and Papa.

Mom is still making veggie and fruit purees. So far, I like sweet potatoes, carrots, squash, zuchinni, yogurt, apple, pear, prune, nectarine, chickpeas, peas, and green beans. I've also been feeding myself crackers, puffs, cereal, chicken, beef brisket, beans, tofu, eggs, purple grapes, and cheese. Basically, whatever mom is eating, she lets me try it, unless it has nuts or citrus.

I like to sit and play in my living room "rowboat". Mommy think it's good practice for when I go swimming in the pool.

Mom and Dad love biking- so they wanted to see if I would enjoy it too. At first, it was a bit unsettling. Dad insisted that I wear a bike helmet and it felt uncomfortable. But after a while, I got used to it and started to enjoy the ride. Now, I am so realxed that I fall asleep every time. I can't wait to get my very own bike!

I turned 8 months old on April 18th. Look how big I am compared to me at 1 month! Uh oh, I can hear mom now- wishing for another little baby.

Aunt Margo came to visit with Daddy's cousin Leslie, who is pregnant with triplet boys! Oh Boys! They all live in Georgia, so this was the first time we met, but I hope to visit them soon.

My First Easter

2009-05-14T09:30:00.002-04:00

I've been keeping mommy busy lately, so she has been a bit behind on updating my blog. But she says she will try to stay on top of it and not, what's the word? ... procrastinate.

I found a polka-dotted egg at my church's Easter Egg Hunt. Mom said I couldn't have any of the candy, but that's okay. I was happy just playing with the eggs.

We spent Easter weekend visiting with Grandma and Grandpa in Akron. I was so surprised and happy that Auntie Jen, Uncle Eric, and Cousin Eli drove all the way up from Maryland to see me!

Cousin Tempy is so pretty... I could just look into her blue eyes forever.

Eli has just started solids and is bigger than me now!

Cousins Tempy and Eli met for the first time. I hope we all get to hangout together again very soon.

Columbus Zoo Trip

2009-04-06T10:16:00.001-04:00

Mommy, Daddy, and I and some of our friends visited the animals at the zoo on Saturday. I got to see some real-life farm animals at the petting zoo. My favorite animals though were the parrots- I can get really close to them, they sing to me, and I love their brilliant colors.

It was a beautiful sunny day... we were happy!

I'm trying to hide from the paparazzi.

Before we left the zoo, we visited the elephants and submitted two name ideas for the baby born last week: Dim Sum and Peking. Mom promised that she would bring me back to see the baby elephant- but visiting hours are very short for now and the lines get very long. She said in another couple of weeks.

Cuteness

2009-04-01T10:56:00.001-04:00

Mommy thinks this is the cutest picture of me ever and wants to show me off to the world.

Cheerios and Sippy Cup

2009-04-01T10:51:00.002-04:00

Step 1... pick up the Cheerio.

Step 2... put it in my mouth and chew!

I'm so excited that I can now feed myself. I've really been practicing for the last couple of months, with not only Cheerios, but playing with all the soft white tags on my toys. Not only can I feed myself, but i can drink from a sippy cup now too! Freedom!!! Not really- I still like it when mom feeds me.

And if you look closely, you will see two teeth!

Austin Visit

2009-04-01T09:58:00.001-04:00

Mommy and I hadn't been in Austin since Christmas and it was so good to be back. Nana, Grandpa, and I enjoyed being outside in the warm (but not too hot) Austin air. Since still get to fly for free, we are going to return as much as possible. Our next visit will be in June and I cannot wait to show everyone what I've been learning so far.

I loved the butterfly garden at the San Antonio Zoo. While we waited to go inside, I entertained myself in the full-length mirror. the garden was so pretty. The flutterbies, I mean, butterflies, kept landing on our heads. My cousins got to walk around and try to get them to land on their fingers.

I love my cousins (and squeezing their cheeks)!

Sam and I got to hang out a lot together. He showed me all the cool big boy moves and really gave me the confidence I needed to try new things. I think Auntie Heidi did the same thing for Mommy.

San Antonio Visit

2009-04-01T09:44:00.001-04:00

Mommy and I recently spent two weeks visiting family in Texas. The first week, it was cold and rainy like Ohio, but I didn't mind so much because I got to see my Great Grandma Clair.

Great Grandma really knows how to get me to smile. She fixed us a wonderful lunch and took us on a walk through the neighborhood park.

My Great Aunt Eileen dropped by for a visit too. Mommy says that we should pray that she recovers well from her hip surgery. I think she is doing great already, driving around town just to see little ol' me!

The Clair Women really think I'm special. Well, I think they are special too!

I LOVE...

2009-03-06T10:09:00.000-05:00

I (a.k.a. "Storm Pooper") LOVE sweet potatoes, especially when mom mixes it with oatmeal, avocado, or banana.

I LOVE it when daddy comes home and feeds me dinner.

I LOVE wearing my baseball cap and camoflauge pants like a big boy.

I LOVE sitting up all by myself in the diaper box. When I get tired, I just lean back and relax.

Sitting

2009-02-27T14:51:00.000-05:00

I like to practice sitting in a laundrybasket because there's no room for me to fall over! Mom and I played '"Choo Choo". You guessed it! She pushed me around and around the couch, shouting, "choo choo!"

Toes and Blankets

2009-02-26T14:30:00.000-05:00

I like to use my monkey toes more than my fingers.

Really... I do!

Thanks Great Aunt Karen for my super soft blanket! You are so talented!

"James McNair Schwarz 8-18-2008"

I'm Too Young to Ski

2009-02-26T13:46:00.002-05:00

Every year, mom and dad go skiing at the Peek n Peak Resort in NY with three other families. Mommy couldn't ski last year because she was about 8 weeks pregnant with me, but this year, she got about 4 hours of ski time in while I played with daddy.

Daddy and I had a lot of fun playing in the new room. I think the folks were worried that I wouldn't sleep well in such a new place, but I was perfect. What do you expect?

I love my new girlfriends! They are so pretty and sweet, especially when they pet and kiss me.

This is how I like to eat banana. Mommy has tried the spoon and the mesh bag- but I resist those baby items! I want to eat like I see mommy eat!

Baby Food- yuck!

2009-02-24T15:37:00.000-05:00

Thanks Nana for the bib! I had fun wearing it and waiting to see what it was all about.

Mommy made this for me and while it looked interesting in a pink bowl, I really didn't like eating off the spoon or the taste of rice cereal.

It may look like I ate the rice cereal, but I spent most of the time saying "yuck!" For the last 10 days, mom has tried rice cereal, oatmeal, pears, bananas, and cheerios. I will only eat the banana like mommy does (from the peel) or off her finger. Cheerios are okay too. My absolute favorite is drinking water from mommy and daddy's glass or water bottle. I like to stick my tongue in and lap up water like a cat!

Mommy is trying to not get frustrated about my finicky eating. She knows that I am practicing and that in due time, I will get it. I think she thought I would just open up my mouth and gobble it all up with a big "yummy" and smile. Don't worry mom- one day soon, I will enjoy all the homemade organic foods you are making for me. Look at me- how can anyone get frustrated at this face?!?!

I'm 6 Months Old!

2009-02-19T13:15:00.000-05:00

I am so happy to have had my half birthday yesterday. Mommy and Daddy cannot believe that I'm already 6 months old!

Mommy and I are on our way to the moms group she started at church. The other pre-school kids are older than me- but soon I will be able to keep up and run after them. For now, I spend most of my time watching the moms talk about stuff like c-sections and food.

Mommy got this drum for me, to encourage me to sit up more on my own.

But as you can see, I like using my feet far more than my hands... so when mom makes me sit up, I usually kick back and use my feet. Mommy says that at this rate, I can be the next Lance Armstrong or David Beckham.

Happy Valentine's Day!

2009-02-13T17:17:00.000-05:00

Tomorrow will be my first Valentine's Day and so far, I've helped mom put together a picture frame for Daddy. Later, we're going to make him his favorite- carrot cake with a cream cheese frosting from scratch! I don't think I will be able to eat any this year, but maybe next. Speaking of eating, I'm starting solids tomorrow! Mommy wants to take things slowly- so we are going to have rice cereal, then oatmeal cereal, then multigrain cereal, before she starts making my food, such as squash and sweet potatoes. I can't wait because those sound so much yummier than cereal!

I had my 6 month checkup today with a new pediatrician. Mom and dad weren't so fond of the older doctor. I like Dr. Ben better. He's a DO. Anyway, I weighed 17 pounds and am 27.25 inches tall!

Happy Valentine's Day! xoxo

Hi Babysitter! zzzzz...

2009-01-31T19:13:00.004-05:00

Mom and Dad hired a babysitter and went out on a date for the first time since I was born. Jessica came early and fed me, to make sure I'd take food from here. Then she watched as Daddy went through his whole bedtime routine. It's complicated- bedtime bottle, sponge bath, massage, talk to Tolstoy (my humidifier frog), swaddle with the Miracle Blanket (super duper complicated), Aquaphor on my cheeks, kisses, then turn on the bathroom fan and nature sounds. We go through the exact thing every night, but I don't mind. It makes me feel comfortable and relaxed for a long night of sleep, which I have been gettng a lot more often lately. I can hear Mommy breathing a sigh of relief right now!

Mom and Dad met Jessica through church and knew she was the right one for me, since she babysits the youth pastor's three very active kids. Too bad I didn't get to spend much time with her. She spent most of the time watching cable and stuff while Mom and Dad ate sushi and massaman curry before seeing the movie, Taken. I overheard Mom saying that it just makes her feel better now to go out only when I'm sleeping. She's going to have to let go some day soon. But for now, I'm glad she is taking it slowly. I wouldn't want her to go out too much without me!

Baby It's Cold Outside!

2009-01-27T09:36:00.000-05:00

(Christmas Vacation in Austin, TX 2008 )

But it's nice and toasty inside! Too bad there is more snow on the ground this morning. That means mom probably won't take me on a walk tonight. If I am good though, she said we could go to Trader Joe's instead! Don't worry Mommy, I won't grow up to be a pink-sunglass-wearing beach bum.

Exersaucer

2009-01-22T14:53:00.001-05:00

I finally learned how to turn myself around in this thing!

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2009-01-22T11:08:00.000-05:00

Testing from cell phone

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Teething

2009-01-20T21:56:00.000-05:00

I've been telling Mom and Dad for days that my teeth are coming in, by being more fussy than usual. They just thought I was tired or unhappy for whatever reason. But today, I really showed them! And no- I didn't get into the liqour cabinet! After crying inconsolably for an hour today, mom finally rubbed some whiskey on my gums and I was all smiles.

Yummy!

Since I didn't nap so well today, I fell asleep while Mom and Dad were eating dinner. Being in my sling is really comforting- I love snuggling in it, especially when I'm not feeling so well. And no, I'm not drunk!

Dad wanted to hold and hug me before starting my bedtime routine. I love Daddy!

Practice Practice Practice

2009-01-20T13:53:00.000-05:00

Mom truly believes that practice makes perfect, although she will be the first to admit that she is super lazy and often doesn't practice and will instead, just do. She hopes that I have a stronger work ethic, especially when it comes to learning how to sit and eat. Since it will be another month until I eat t solids, mom thought it would be fun to break out the highchair and have me practice sitting in it. I guess she is worried that getting used to a new chair and food will be too much for me. I do love it here, because I can be at the same level as Mom and Dad when they eat dinner together.

Mom Agrees

2009-01-20T13:44:00.000-05:00

Aren't I the cutest? Mom agrees, but hopes that I work on my modesty. She thinks modesty is one of Dad's greatest virtues. He never takes credit and instead says, "no big deal". He does all these great things because he's sincerely nice and giving, not because he wants the attention. Hmmm... maybe mom needs to work on it too!!!

Christmas in Akron

2009-01-19T21:28:00.006-05:00

Mommy wonders why I can only manage to take super short naps when traveling. I try to tell her, in my own way, that there is no place like home. At least I didn't miss mommy helping me open my presents while sitting on Grandpa's lap.

Grandma was really sweet and showed me a flying airplane in Uncle Steve's old room. I hope I get to see them again soon.

Grandma and Grandpa Clair got me this cowboy outfit for Christmas and I am so glad that mommy thought of putting me in it. My feet were almost poking through and I would've been sad if I had missed the chance to show off my square dancing moves.

Uncle James' mommy, Auntie Dana, came over for lunch on Sunday. I hadn't seen her in months, but it was like it was only days.

Cousin Tempy looks pretty cute in her girlie outfits- even when they are covered in peas. I can't wait to eat solids too!

Merry Christmas, Finally!

2009-01-12T09:17:00.002-05:00

Mommy, Daddy, and I spent Christmas with Mom's family in Texas this year- so we decided to open our presents at home on Christmas Eve Eve. I love all the shiney pretty wrapping paper. Some of my presents weren't wrapped though. Mommy explained to me that there is a jolly old man named Santa who leaves unwrapped presents for kids under the tree. Since I am starting solids in about a month or so, Santa brought me some spoons, bowls, plates, and stuff that I need for eating.

Hanging out in Texas was pretty relaxing. I got to see Daddy all day and play with a mommy who didn't have to worry about cooking and laundry. She was still stressed out about my nap schedule, but overall, Mommy was pretty relaxed too.

We drove from Austin to San Antonio to visit the Clair family. My Great Grandma hosted a little party for me. My first party! Mommy has a lot of aunts, uncles, and cousins- all who wanted to hold me and give me lots of love. It was bit overwhelming and I was really exhausted- but I finally got to meet all these people Mom and Dad talk about, so now I can picture the faces with the names.

Mommy insisted that we drive to the cemetary where Grandma Chen is buried. I don't really understand it all, but it was really pretty there with all the flowers. It was a perfect warm and sunny day.

The best part of vacation was hanging out with other short people like me! My cousins are all very nice, but I like Sam the best. We seem to have a lot of the same interests in clothes, food and toys. I can't wait to see them again at Thanksgiving 2009. Until then, maybe I can talk Mommy into taking a trip back to Austin in the summer.

4 Months and Kickin'

2008-12-20T18:22:00.001-05:00

I turned four months old on Thursday and at this rate, plan on being around for at least another 12oo months. I've got my health, Harold the Bear, and Mommy and Daddy. What else does a boy need?

I like to practice sitting up and grabbing my toys. Mom sings, "10 little teddy bears jumping on the bed..." when she shakes this rattle. I don't have the heart to tell her that one, the song is about monkeys, and two, the rattle is a tiger.

Daddy and I are all ready for our Christmas Party- the 3rd Annual Cookie Swap Party. He keeps asking me, "Where is Baby Waldo?" I don't get it.

Thanksgiving Weekend

2008-12-08T16:23:00.001-05:00

Mom, Dad, and I drove 120 miles on Thanksgiving Day morning to Akron. I got to see Grandma and Grandpa Schwarz and all of my aunts and uncles. The food looked delicious, but I wasn't ready to try any this year. The adults talked and played games, while I napped and was passed around from person to person.

After everyone left, we hopped back into the van and drove 330 miles to Leesburg, Virginia. I think Mom and Dad were relieved that I slept the whole way there, and only had to stop once in 6 hours to feed me. I finally met my Auntie Jen, Uncle Eric and my new cousin, Eli. They live in Frederick, Maryland- which isn't too far from Leesburg, where Mom's friends live. Auntie Jen and Uncle Eric made us another Thanksgiving dinner. They tried cooking the turkey in a brown paper bag, but it started smoking, so they finished it the old-fashioned way. Mom said it was yummy.

My cousin Eli is pretty cool. Dad kept talking about his chipmunk cheeks and how big he is. I'm 7 weeks older than he is, but I have a feeling that he will be bigger than me one day. Oh well! We'll still be friends. Auntie Jen talked about something she read- how mommies know the smell of their babies. So Mom and Auntie Jen closed their eyes and smelled our heads. They both guessed right on the first try. They must really love us. I can't wait to go back to MD and VA to see everyone again!

Baptized

2008-11-12T13:42:00.001-05:00

James was baptized this past weekend at Stonybrook UMC. His godparents, Heidi and Marc, brought baby Sam all the way from Austin to be a part of the special event. I had a wonderful time meeting my new nephew and playing Karaoke Revolution with my sister and brother-in-law. Too bad they had to go back to hot hot Texas so quickly- but Monday's morning snow was a nice treat!

Notice the baptismal gown... my Great Aunt Gloria (my Grandpa James' sister) made it for Uncle James in the 1940's. All his subsequent siblings, nieces, and nephews wore the gown as well. It was an honor that James could wear it and be the first in his generation.

Car Seat

2008-11-03T16:49:00.004-05:00

I don't like going into my car seat anymore. It makes me feel so constrained... and for an athlete, I need my space to stretch and prepare for the big game! But there are times when I will please mommy and put on a good act. Here are some pictures of me. Mommy couldn't decide which was the cutest. She's so weird like that!

My Weekend

2008-11-03T16:47:00.001-05:00

After spending the weekend in Warren, OH with mom and dad's friends, we stopped in Akron to have lunch with Grandpa, Grandma, Aunti Kim, Uncle Matt, and Cousin Tempe. Uncle Matt was making me laugh with his funny faces. I think it's fascinating that he looks so much like daddy!

Dad's old work friend has a pretty daughter who liked to pet me and give me kisses. She even helped mommy burp me after I ate.

I didn't dress up for Halloween this year because we spent the evening driving to Warren. But the next day, mom wanted to dress me up and take pictures (perhaps to embarass me one day). Unfortunately, the reindeer fuzzy sleeper she picked out for me about 2 months ago for this very occassion was waaaay to small for me. I was not very happy wearing it for the 20 seconds it took to take a few pictures.

I love it when pretty girls and women are around me. They have such nice voices and love to hold and smile at me. I'm so lucky!

I'm Playing

2008-10-29T11:33:00.001-04:00

My mommy and daddy are so proud of me. I don't see what the big deal is about doing what makes me happy. But you know how parents are with their first- they take a ton of pictures and brag about every little thing.

I really impressed mommy during the day yesterday. First, I smiled and giggled when she figured out that I like soft stuffed animals. Well, duh! During one of my diaper changes, she took a soft rattle and gently moved it across my body. She even let me nibble on it a bit. Yum Yum! Then, she did the same thng on my face with my friend Ugo you see in the picture up there. I don't think I have ever smiled so much! Later, mommy put me in my bumbo for the first time (daddy did is last week for a minute or two) and I sat there and we talked and sang for about 10 minutes. Then near the end of the afternoon, mommy wanted to make dinner, so she put me on the floor mat. Now, I usually just stare at the couch or cry, because I don't like being left alone on the floor. But yesterday, she put my toy bar over me and I just stared up at it and started batting at the toys. The clinked and clanked together and I could't help it- I played by myself for 30 minutes. Daddy came home while I was still playing and took some video of me. He's such a dork!

I've also made it easier on my folks at bed time. Usually, daddy would put me to bed... but for some reason, I decided I wanted mommy to do it instead. She figured out that instead of ignoring me when I talking to her after I eat, she should just talk back to me. When she ignored me, it just made me mad or want to talk more and not sleep. Now, we talk for a few minutes and I feel satisfied enough to go to sleep.

Isn't it strange how it takes adults so long to figure out the simplest things in life?

Look How Big I Am!

2008-10-22T20:12:00.003-04:00

I had my 2 month check-up today and Dr. H said I was doing very well. I am 12 lbs 13 oz (75th%ile) and 24 in tall (80th%ile). If I keep growing at this rate, I will end up taller than Daddy! I'm already too big for most of my 0-3 mo clothes. Luckily, Auntie Heidi sent me some clothes this week so I will stay nice and toasty this winter.

August 28th

September 13th

September 19th

October 22nd

Chicken Dance

2008-10-19T20:18:00.003-04:00

James is practicing for when his future wife makes him dance at his wedding.

Pumpkin Festival

2008-10-19T11:23:00.001-04:00

We spent the late afternoon and evening at the Pumpkin Festival in Circleville, OH. Before I got this cute shot of James and Jeff walking down the street, we had been sitting in the van for 2 hours to get to this place. It should have taken 45 minutes at the most. I guess people love their pumpkins... and I was hoping that it was worth it. I got to experience the lovliness of sitting in traffic with a crying infant.

There were pumpkin trees, pumpkins molded into creepy faces, and of course, pumpkins yummies- donuts, pizza, cream puffs, waffles, pancakes, oh my!

Our friend James (Uncld James) came from Vegas to visit our baby James.

Bloomin' onion! And I'm not talking about the fried stuff on the plate there! While I didn't know it at the time, but during this photo, James was making a blowout in his diaper. Have you ever changed a diaper only to discover that you have to strip the baby and change his clothes in 50 degree temps?

James had a great time seeing the sights and staring at all his new friends.... but he got very cranky when the parade started. We were on our way back to the car when we were blocked by the marching bands and haunted houses on wheels. Yikes! But he slept well when we got home and is back to his 6 hour max of straight sleep. Hip Hip Hooray!

I'm Almost 2 Months Old!

2008-10-16T13:20:00.001-04:00

I am over 8 weeks old and love to smile at a few things: my mommy, daddy, animal mobile, and black and white sling.

Daddy was taking me out on my evening walks in my stroller, but thought he would try this carrier. I love it so much that when daddy comes home from work, he puts me in it and doesn't take me out until bed time. I guess I was tired last night... I fell asleep on our walk.

Smiling Baby

2008-10-12T09:05:00.001-04:00

It's been difficult capturing James' great smiles, since I am in the middle of talking or singing to him. It's been like watching the pot of water boil... it never happens! Whenever I bring out the camera, he stares at it and doesn't smile. I finally got this shot- but it doesn't do his smile justice.

James LOVES his baths. So much so, I've decided to bathe with him so he can enjoy it even more.

James, the future beach bumb. Look at him chill in the water, soaking in the rays!

Baby Sling

2008-10-12T08:54:00.002-04:00

I've been "wearing" James more often this week. He loves being close to me and experiencing the world. I wear him shopping, running the vacuum, and even napping. We are trying out different positions, but he seems to like this kangaroo hold the best while out and about.

There is a whole culture of babywearing moms out there who do everything with their babies, even shower with them. I think that's a bit extreme for me. James likes his alone time, where he can kick his legs, stretch out and stare off into the world without his mom doting on him.

Eli is Here

2008-10-11T19:51:00.001-04:00

I'd like to welcome my new nephew, Elijah Robert, to the world. Eli was born 2 weeks late, on October 8th at 12:04 pm. He weighed 8 lbs 11 oz and measured 21.25 inches "tall". I can't wait to meet the little chipmunk.

James Smiling at Mom

2008-10-08T13:48:00.005-04:00

James started smiling more a couple of weeks ago. At first, I thought it was just gas. But now, I'm convinced that he is reacting to me, especially when I talk or sing to him. He is happiest just after he eats, so this is the time to get the best smiles. Watch the video below.

Jeff has been taking care of the night time routine of walking, bathing, and changing James. After nursing him, I had been the one to put James to sleep. But now that he is becoming more and more aware of his surroundings, James will stare at me after he's done eating, with his "I want to play with you Mom!" eyes. This was causing me some frustration, because it would take 30-60 minutes to get him tired enough to fall asleep. So now, Jeff started putting the baby to bed and it takes him about 5 or 10 minutes.

But, a few days ago, James tricked daddy! He gave his, "I'm hungry" cues of sticking out his tongue. Jeff whispered into the baby monitor that James was still hungry. I came upstairs and started the process of nursing him- but James smiled his oh so cute smile and just stared at me with his big blue eyes. No sucking, just smiling! What a little trickster!

Party Pooper

2008-09-28T08:34:00.001-04:00

Last Friday, James was a party pooper- literally and figuratively. I assume he pooped in his diaper at some point, while sleeping through most of it. It was an adult party- probably too boring for this little guy. We left after two hours- when the only other kids (walking and talking kids) decided to start popping the balloons. My startle reflex went into overdrive; James was just annoyed.

I'm Almost 6 Weeks!

2008-09-27T13:34:00.001-04:00

Mom went to Once Upon a Child to get me some fall clothes. I think she should start looking at garage sales- but she can't bring herself to waking up so early on Saturday- they day daddy and I let her sleep in.

Daddy likes to get me ready for my night-time walks.

This is the second time daddy has fed me. Mommy was worried about something called "nipple confusion". But I am smart- I know what's what and have no problems at all! (Mom thinks I am super cute in my new cap.)

Last Wednesday was free ice cream at Cold Stone, to benefit the Make a Wish Foundation. Dad and I bonded afterwards.

I'm 5 Weeks Young!

2008-09-24T10:10:00.003-04:00

On Monday, I turned 5 weeks old and mom took me to the Innis Gardens Metro Park near our home. She takes me on two walks everyday- one during the day and one at night. I usually sleep through my daytime walks.

This is my first time at the Innis Gardens, where flowers seem to grow faster than babies! Mom took a bunch of pictures of me posed in front of cool things in the park. She is silly!

Mom has been reading books to me lately. She wedges me in the Boppy pillow so I can see the book better. One day soon, I won't need help sitting up. I'm already holding up my head... sometimes :)

This is my favorite book so far: Twinkle Twinkle Panda Bear. I am so mesmorized by the black and white finger puppets. They make animal noises and sing songs- but I really know it's mom who is playing with me.

I'm getting ready for my night time walk. I stay awake during these walks so I don't miss out on the frogs and shadows. For some reason, everything looks better at night and when I return home, I am nice and calm for my bath and bedtime. Mom just figured out this trick a couple of days ago.

Since Nana has been gone, mom is alone most of the day. She needed to find a way to keep me entertained while she got some work done. Voila! A swing! It rocks me and holds me while I nap. I still prefer Nana holding me... I do miss her!

James' Firsts

2008-09-01T10:03:00.005-04:00

My first stroller ride with Mom and Dad.

I screamed and screamed during my diaper changes... Mom was pretty frustrated and read that many babies cry on the changing table because we feel like we are falling. So she asked Dad to go out and buy a sleeping wedge to keep me snug. It works so well. Now I feel safe and I don't cry anymore!

Mom is going to use Harold to photograph weekly measurements. I hope soon, Harold won't look so big. But I think Mom wants me to stay this small and cute forever.

I got my first bath from Dad. Yeah... I cried when I was cold, but as soon as Dad wrapped me up in my towel, I calmed down. My favorite part of the bath was getting my hair washed. I love that warm water pouring on my head. Ahhhhh.

Mom and Dad took me to my first party on Saturday. It was Elise's first birthday party. She's really pretty and I hope she likes me too.

We went to this place called "church" on Sunday. The music was really loud and I woke up from my nap. But I dozed right back to sleep when Mom took me into the hallway. She tells me that everyone thought I was cute and precious. I believe her!

I discovered the couch that Mom hates today. She doesn't like the pattern, but I do. I was staring at it for about 20 minutes this morning while Mom ate her cereal. I think I actually heard her say, "I'm kinda glad we didn't get rid of the couch."

Look at me! I can pee on my face!

2008-08-24T07:55:00.005-04:00

Jeff has changed most of the diapers thus far and has done a great job avoiding any major fiascos relating to pee and poo. He has taught me all the finer points about the male member and how it reacts to cold air, how it should point down in the diaper, and most importantly, how I need to cover it while changing him so he doesn't pee everywhere. Jeff devised a system for avoiding the pee while diapering tragedy- use a folded cloth diaper as a wall over his mid section. It's a pretty easy concept, which I either 1) forget to do or 2) mess up by allowing the diaper to slip off while wiping his bottom. So, half the time, I've had the wonderful experience of having to change his new diaper, plus the changing pad, and his clothes.

I need more practice.

And sometimes, things get worse before they can get better. Yesterday, James stuck his foot in his poop... and as I was cleaning the foot, his cloth barrier slipped off, of course, and a stream of urine arched back (and yes, I forgot to point his boy part down), over his belly and his his forhead. Urine was dripping on his head and face as I shrieked for help. Jeff was running errands, so my friend Janine came up to help. I grabbed a pack of cotton pads given to me as a shower gift and asked Janine to get it wet, as I dried the uring off his face. She returns to wipe him up only to find out that the pad was pre-soaped. WTF?!! Pre-soaped cotton pads- never heard of such a thing! So now, James has dry urine face and wet soapy head. Ugh. We decide to give him his firth bath in his little tub. Before that, Jeff and I were just wiping James down with wet cotton balls.

Oh boy. James was not a happy little man. Grandma Lee, Janine and I, three women, were needed to bathe the poor guy. He cried like I had never heard him cry. Nothing soothed him from the cold and the wet and I almost cried hearing him cry. But then I wrapped him up in his special towel and he was a warm and content little guy again. Janine captured the moment on camera, so dad could see baby's first bath too.

Welcome Home James McNair

2008-08-22T20:49:00.009-04:00

James McNair Schwarz
August 18, 2008
5:33 am
6 lbs 15 oz, 20 in

Jeff and I decided to use family names for our little one. We had Lily Chen (Jeff's great grandma and my mother's maiden name) picked out for a girl and James McNair (My grandpa and my grandma's maiden name). I was really looking forward to buying girlie dresses and putting on hair bows... but when my son arrived (yes, I'm crying- I think this is the first time I actually thought- "I have a son" rather than "I just had a baby"), I was the happiest person in the world and Insert every cliche here.

My two favorite guys

I know all moms says this, but I really think James is the most adorable baby. Who do you think he looks like? We think he has my nose and eyes and Jeff's mouth... and that he really does look a bit "Asian".

Jeff is such a great dad and husband. He changes most of the diapers for James AND dries me off after my showers because I can't bend much at the waist. He wakes up in the middle of the night to help James line-up properly to eat and records all the times for the doctor AND cooks and picks up food, such as sushi (as in the stuff I couldn't eat while pregnant) from my favorite restaurant. He sings and talks to James AND reminds me that I'm a great mom. We are so blessed to have him.

Ready to go home

Now that I've been home for about 40 hours, I've discovered what is really hard, so far, about having an infant. Maybe "hard" is the wrong word... nothing I've done is difficult, it has just all required much more patience. For example, getting the little guy to latch on during feedings can take 5 seconds or sometimes 5 minutes... Luckily, so far, this has been the only slight frustration (besides being in pain and semi-bed-ridden). James can sleep through the night if we let him, but we wake him up to eat. When he is awake, his eyes are wide open, studying my lips as I sing or talk to him. He will also lie in his rocker for 20-30 minutes at a time and look around while happily sucking on his pacifier. My favorite moments are taking him, chest to chest, and rubbing his back as he sleeps. It's like petting a cute puppy- but so much more rewarding.

I've uploaded some pics with captions that tell the hospital story to my Facebook page. For those of you who aren't Facebookers, you can follow the link below and still view the album. Also, visit my Picasa photo page to get more pics :)

Facebook Pictures (with captions)
http://www.new.facebook.com/album.php?aid=35892&l=7d6a1&id=756657128

Picasa Pictures (more pics, but without captions)
http://picasaweb.google.com/jeanne.schwarz/JamesMcNairDelivery

Then and Now 3

2008-08-14T11:05:00.005-04:00

Amelia, Rachael, and Baby Luke (April 2006)

Amelia, Rachael, and Baby Sam (July 2008)

Childhood Slideshow

2008-08-09T22:03:00.002-04:00

I made this slideshow via Picasa... let's see how this works. It has some pics of both Jeff and me.

Then and Now 2

2008-08-07T18:15:00.006-04:00

Jen and Me in Taiwan: I was already practicing to be a mom!

Now we are both going to be moms! Eric (Jen's hubby) must think pregnant bellies look like big ears!

Baby Blankets

2008-08-01T12:26:00.007-04:00

Tempy Violet: July 10, 2008

Samuel Cole: July 14, 2008

Baby Schwarz: Due August 26, 2008

Baby Knowles: Due September 24, 2008

Then and Now

2008-07-31T17:05:00.004-04:00

THEN

Christy and Jeanne: based on my hairstyle, I am guess this was 11th grade, 1992

Yes! I stole this idea from Kara... Throwback Thursday is such a great way to think about the good ol' days through photos. But I tweaked the concept a bit and will call mine "Then and Now".

Christy was one of my closest friends. We met on day one of high school. We were both scared and new to the school and since our last names both start with "C", we sat next each other in homeroom. I guess if she were a boy, it would have been called love at first sight! We were both music dorks- she in choir and madrigals, and me in band and orchestra. I ended up going to church with her for a while, and her parents were oh so kind to me. One of my favorite memories is when Christy and I showed up to a back-to-school dance, as fresh freshman, wearing our church dresses, while the cool kids wore designer labels. I was particularly embarrased, wearing my white polka dotted Easter dress that glowed in the dark under the black light. Oh yeah- bad.

NOW
My wedding: 11-11-06

Now we laugh about those times when we were church dress wearing dorks... mostly because we haven't changed much!

I was thinking about Christy today because she told me yesterday that she is dating someone who truly excites her and it sounds like he is "the one!" (Fingers crossed) And even though we live in different states and I see her on average once a year, I still feel like we can easily pickup where we left off after 16 years. This makes me feel very fortunate.

Volunteer!

2008-07-28T10:43:00.001-04:00

VBS 2008
This was my first year leading Vacation Bible School at my church, Stonybrook United Methodist. My grandmother says she took me to VBS once when I was little little, but I don't recall... so really, this was my first VBS experience and I was nervous!

Since moving to Columbus, I've stayed at home, cooking this baby and doing my best to take care of myself, the baby, the house, hubby, etc., all while trying not to go bored out of my mind. Mundane tasks, such as ripping over 300 cds or cleaning out the closets, can only keep my occupied for a short time. I didn't want to substitute teach or work in a new school for just a couple of months and leave, so I decided that I would have to find something meaningful to do during this down time. Honestly, it's been through observing and admiring the ones I love the most, that inspired me to volunteer at church. My grandmother, Rachael, Heidi, and Jeff's parents have all been so faithful to truly helping and impacting others for years- it just finally hit me, inspired me to do the same- or to at least try.

Since most of my teaching experience has been with middle schoolers, and I actually like them, I volunteered to lead this group of kids. I am newly baptized, a new member of this church, or of any church for that matter, and honestly, I was nervous. Fortunately, two other members, who have been working with "the youth" volunteered as well, so we settled on co-teaching. Dan and Sarah taught the kids their bible stories, and I worked with them on their service projects and activities. Instead of making a craft project like the younger kids, I had thought that these kids were mature enough to make more of a relevant and meaningful impact on the church. And I am so glad I was right! We ended up focusing on how kids, not just adults, can volunteer and do great things too. They ended up raising money for the United Methodist Children's Home in Columbus, working in the church's Free Store, gardening around the church and the parsonage, and making and serving dessert to the VBS kids and families. They did all this during the usual craft hour and I hope these projects gave them all something to think about for the future.

Summer Feeding Program
Every summer, the state of Ohio, sponsors this program that feeds kids who usually get free or reduced lunches during the school year. The idea is to supplement the meals they are missing during the summer when they aren't in school. This summer, Gahanna, where I live, participated in the program- and it was the area churches that stepped up to the plate. Each week, a different group of church volunteers serve the kids and the adults who bring them to the site. Last week was our week and we ended up feeding over 50 different kids, completing craft project with them, playing games, and sending them home with brand new books. I ended up taking on the craft project because I wanted to interact with the kids and I'm so glad I did it.

The baby is hungry again... so before I go, I just wanted to say that I wrote this blog entry in hopes that whomever reads it will be inspired somehow. Have a great week!

Week 37

2008-07-27T20:45:00.002-04:00

It's my 33rd birthday and the first time I can say: "I'm a mom!" Jeff and I went to the movie theater and finally saw Iron Man. Go see it if you haven't and if you have, see it again. We had dessert at Cold Stone, where I used my birthday club coupon. And now we are getting ready to watch a rental at home: I Now Pronounce You Chuck and Larry. If you haven't discovered the Redbox DVD kiosks at your neighborhood grocery store or McD's... it's a great way to see movies for $1 or even better, for $free. I found a website that lists coupon codes for the kiosks, so I ALWAYS watch free movies. I'm learning how to be cheap. Thanks Heidi for teaching me it's not only about saving money, but about the challenge as well!

Quick Updates

2008-07-23T17:49:00.009-04:00

Heidi reminded me that I haven't published anything for a while... I guess I've been busy gearing up for the baby and feeling overwhelmed. But all the same, it's bad to be a slacker and not share all the good news and pictures!

Pregnant Sisters: Jen is 5 weeks behind, due Sept. 24th

Over July 4th weekend, Jeff and I took our last long road trip in a while to MD/VA to visit Jen and Eric and our friends Dave and Sonya. Since these four folks couldn't make it to OH for the official baby shower, sweet sweet Sonya held baby shower part deux in her home.

Temperance Violet

On July 10th, my brother-in-law Matt and his wife Kim had their first baby, Tempy. Jeff and I drove up to Akron to visit them in the hospital and then welcomed them home with food and flowers (violets of course!). Tempy is super cute and we are so happy for Matt and Kim and thank them for taking the lead and showing us now it's done!

Samuel Cole

Four days later, on July 14th, my sister Heidi had her fourth baby in the hot hot heat of Austin, TX. Look at this photo of daddy Marc and the kids- so darn adorable. Not only are they cute, but they really are such an awesome family. I've told the them a few times, but it's worth repeating and recording forever in this grand space and time, aka The Internet, that I hope Jeff and I can be parents like Heidi and Marc. They are some of the best role models out there! So if you are looking for one...

Baby Shower

2008-07-01T12:04:00.006-04:00

Jeff's parents, Lee and Dick, hosted a coed baby shower for us at their home in Akron, OH. The whole family pitched in, making a Hawaiian-themed menu and decor. We loved every moment of it and feel very fortunate to have such great people in our lives with whom to share this special moment. 8 weeks to go! And of course, we have more photos...

My favorite gift: the dragonfly quilt made by Nana Gerdes.

Jeff's favorite gift: "Storm Pooper" from Uncle Matt and Aunt Kim

Volcano Cupcakes

2008-06-23T14:01:00.002-04:00

In preparation for my baby shower this weekend, I practiced making and eathing these yummy cupcakes. This would be a fun recipe to make with kids.
(Scroll down for the recipe)

Volcano Cupcakes

Cupcake

Red Velvet Cake Mix
24 Truffle Hershey Kisses, unwrapped

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Make the cake mix according to directions. Spray two 12-cup muffin pans and fill each cup ¾ with batter. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes. Push one kiss into the center of each warm cupcake to form a “crater”. Remove cupcakes from pan and cool for at least 20 minutes before adding frosting.

Buttercream Lava Frosting

1 stick softened butter
4 c. powdered sugar
1.5 tsp. vanilla
1-3 tbsp milk
yellow and red food coloring
red decorating sprinkles

With an electric mixer, beat butter in a large bowl. Add powdered sugar .5 cup at a time. Add vanilla and t tbsp of milk. Mix until smooth and creamy. Add more milk if needed. Add 5 drops red and 2 drops yellow food coloring. Frost cupcakes generously, allowing some to drip down the sides. Top with red sprinkles.

Pregnancy Update

2008-06-17T16:47:00.002-04:00

9 weeks and 6 days!!!

I had another check-up yesterday. The doc says that all is well, but I need to start charting fetal movements to catch it early if all doesn't remain well. He wants the baby to move at least 10 times in any given hour. Luckily, when the baby does move, it's usually 10 times in a matter of seconds, sometimes minutes. Thanks baby! You are making life easier for me already!

My class on Monday was less boring that the week previous. I don't think I learned anything new, per se, but at this point, it's more a matter of devoting the time when both Jeff and I can practice relaxation techniques and focus just on the baby and not anything else in life. I know it's cheesy, but it's a nice bonding time.

Food Network, Fliphappy, Austin

2008-06-12T16:16:00.004-04:00

Jeff and I have been watching a lot of Food Network lately. Our favorite has been Alton Brown's Good Eats where the chef takes a scientific Bill Nye-ish approach to cooking. We also enjoying Duff's Ace of Cakes... mostly because I knew Duff, Geoff, and Mary Alice once-upon-a-time and they are on TV doing what they do best. But my personal favorite has been Throwdown with Bobby Flay. As an Iron Chef, Bobby selects the best of the best - such as the best dumpling maker- and tries to out-cook the pro. Earlier this week, he went to Austin and lost against the girls of Fliphappy Crepes. They look so scrumptious and I hope my family takes me there one day!

Other Cooking Shows I Watch:

Labor & Birth Class Week 1

2008-06-11T16:32:00.003-04:00

Jeff and I attended our first baby class at the hospital this past Monday. It was sooooo boring. We've done so much reading up to this point, but the teacher covered only basic redundant information- much of which we learn from pregnant friends and watching TV. The other seven couples looked bored too.

We did learn one thing though- a new term: "back labor". Apparently, the baby should be turned to the side when entering the pelvic cavity since the head is at its smallest circumference. But during back labor, the baby is facing mommy's belly button, forcing the head to push on mama's back nerves and tailbone. Now I have the visual when a mom tells me that the baby broke her tailbone during labor. Yikes!

Babies Galore!

2008-06-09T13:36:00.001-04:00

Baby Shower
Matt (Jeff's big bro') and Kim are expecting their first baby in mid-July. They just had their shower this past weekend at the Sheraton on the Cuyahoga Falls. It was a beautiful location accented by their Dr. Seuss theme tables and cake. I can't wait to meet little Temperance Schwarz!

Pregnancies
Many of you know this, but I think it's so cool that I have to say it again:

Mid-July: My sister Heidi and my sister-in-law Kim are due.
Late-August: I am due.
Early-October: My sister Jen is due.

When I think about all these babies born at the same time, I get really sentimental. Perhaps God is reminding me about the importance of family, staying in touch, spending time and promoting a closeness that you can't find anywhere else. These babies are already bonded by blood, I just hope the bond gets stronger and becomes more and more meaningful each day!

Twins
Jeff and I also spent this past weekend in Warren, OH, with some "Progressive Friends" (Jeff worked at Progressive Insurance before we moved from Cleveland) at Craig and Brittaney's home. We finally met Betsy and Joe's twins: Rachel and Tanner, now 6 weeks old. They are so precious and it was good practice holding, feeding, and napping with them.

What Webster Doesn't Know

2008-06-04T18:28:00.013-04:00

Noah Webster must have got it wrong somehow. I mean, when I was preparing for pregnancy, I learned that I would have to take prenatals with folic acid and promptly looked it up in the dictionary. Folic Acid is a water-soluble vitamin that is converted to a coenzyme essential to purine and thymine biosynthesis: deficiency causes a form of anemia. Okay. So it's like a vitamin C or something. I make sure I take my vitamins and eat the right foods and I'm set. But noooooo... Webster never told me that the lack of folic acid could cause neural tube defects, affect brain development and pretty much be the bane of my existence for two weeks straight. Apparently, prenatal vitamins make many women sick... and I was one of them. As I was living on a diet of mostly watermelon and soy milk, I was wondering what was in store for me... what else did I not know... what other seemingly innocuous words had been rolling off my tongue for years and would soon become more detestable than ever?

Here's my list so far. I am sure there is more... but for now, it's enough to show that I was quite ill-prepared.

Gas: a substance possessing perfect molecular mobility and the property of indefinite expansion, as opposed to a solid or liquid.

"Enemy number one! I am someone who fully appreciates the middle-school level of potty humor, gas = funny! But now, I frequently spend my public outings either running from one aisle to another, hoping strangers can't follow my scent, or I am doubled-over, stop in mid-walk, in pain over my shopping cart because someone how the gas is so dense it makes my feet stop working."

Acne: an inflammatory disease of the sebaceous glands, characterized by comedones and pimples.

"I can admit, my skin was never perfect. We all have flaws and a few zits here and there didn't really bother me. But now, I have hundreds, yes, hundreds of them on my face, shoulders, and back. My doctor says I should wear them as a badge of honor. Ha! He has no clue!"

Fat: any of several white or yellowish greasy substances, forming the chief part of adipose tissue of animals.

"Now for those of you who know me, you may think, Jeanne has no business talking about fat. Okay, okay, okay, I've always been thin. But doesn't that almost make gaining weight even worse for me? (Please don't kill me!) I mean, I never really thought of the word 'fat' before- but now, I ask Jeff, pretty much everyday, "Am I fat? How does my butt look? Are these love handles?" As soon as I ask these questions, I cringe... I'm annoyed at myself that I even asked, that I care so much. I'm freaking pregnant and still, I am a woman who is somehow programmed to ask her husband how she looks in a pair of jeans she could only wear 20 pounds ago. It's like I'm asking for it! But at least I have one thing going for me in this category: a bigger bra!"

Nausea: sickness at the stomach.

"More like sickness at the stomach that causes me to eat a bowl full of yummy pasta one day and the next, take a spoonful from the same dish and swear that it tastes like soap. Or needing to take a combination of gas-x, rolaids, and tums before, during, and after every meal and never quite getting the formula right. Or being blamed for Jeff's weight gain because I can't predict what will taste right one day, forcing him to eat two meals because we can't waste food. The best relief I have found though- is forcing myself to burp and really letting it out. It's a practice in humility."

Insomnia: inability to obtain sufficient sleep.

"You will have weird dreams about the baby bursting out like an alien and nightmares about the baby getting sick or hurt. You will have a full-bladder three times a night, racing thoughts about what to get for the nursery, and an overwhelming fear of the baby being born and having to be responsible for the very first time for someone else 100%."

Hunger: a compelling need or desire for food.

"I really have a hard time in restaurants now. The meal description and photo will convince me that I have to get it- I just have to have that breakfast plate of chocolate chip waffles and side of hash brows, bacon, toast, corned-beef hash and grits. And only God and all the stars and moon, and perhaps, Jeff, will know what will happen next: I'll take a bite of the waffle and it will have too much chocolate. The hash browns will be too soggy, the bacon too greasy, toast to buttery, corned-beef hash too hashy and grits too gritty. It won't make sense! And I will go back and forth between thinking that the cook messed up or that my taster is off and will eventual settle on the bad cooking."

-----

Whenever Jeff and I see the doctor, he reminds me of one thing: 1) Jeff got me pregnant. 2) I feel crappy. 3) It's Jeff's fault I feel crappy. Of course, it's all in good fun and when it really comes down to it, I love being pregnant. Even though Webster neglected to further define some words in the context of pregnancy, I'm actually glad I didn't know a lot of these things in advance and that it wasn't as simple as looking up some words in the dictionary. One of the best parts of being pregnant is Jeff and I , *together*, learning what it all means in the context of our relationship.

My Order is In

2008-06-02T14:37:00.000-04:00

I just called 1-800-new-baby and put in my order for one just like Luke: adorable, even-tempered, independent yet lets his mama hug and kiss him all over, so so smart and social, well-spoken, happy and smiles, easy-going. Even though the sales rep took my payment in acne and gas, she couldn't guarantee the girl parts I requested- they are on back-order and may not be ready for delivery by late August.

2008 California Teacher of the Year

2008-06-02T11:49:00.003-04:00

Jeff's cousin, Lewis Chappelear, is this year's California Teacher of the Year and finalist for the National Teacher of the Year. It's such an awesome honor for someone who is such a dedicated educator. Lewis teaches Engineering Design in an urban LA school- a place were many of us would be too scared to even walk through the doors.

http://www.nu.edu/About/NewsandEvents/NewsReleases/LChappelear.html

Scary Pregnancy Dream

2008-06-01T16:12:00.000-04:00

I had my first scary and officially strange pregnancy dream last night, featuring my cat Buzz. He's been sick lately and in the dream, I checked-in on him only to find him dead with cleaning supplies knocked over and leaking into his water and food dish. I was so upset, I woke up crying with Jeff holding me and telling me it would be all right. We both went downstairs to make sure Buzz was okay, and of course, he was.

This is really telling about the stress I've been feeling about being a first-time mom. I guess my big issue is questioning my ability to take care of my baby and to keep her safe. But the biggest issue I have is this overwhelming fear of those closest to me, my husband and my baby, suddenly dying. My biological mother died tragically when I was 17, and it seems that having a baby is reminding me that I may have an unreasonable fear of loss that I should address so it doesn't affect how I raise my baby. I don't want to be neurotic and overly protective. So somehow, I have to figure out what I should do about this. Maybe it's normal? It's not like I think about death everyday... it really only comes up subconsciously through my dreams or when Jeff and I talk about death-related matters, like writing a will.

So I have started this Blog because it may be cathartic... and fun. Plus, I will definitely need something to do when I'm a stay-at-home mom and need some "me time."