Hauté Mama's Musings

My Last Baby Registry

2008-02-20T15:59:00.001+03:00

So I’ve narrowed down my registry list pretty reasonably and I currently have it going on @ Amazon.com but I don’t particularly care for how it’s set up on that site.. Sometimes the pictures to the products change and sometimes, they don’t show up @ all - so this is what everything looks like..

Prices on Amazon also have a tendency to jump up and down all the time, and to sometimes crazy prices, but come back down a few days later so the prices below should be the real prices all of the time..

I’m expecting to buy 90% of this stuff myself since people have been so great in the past and have got me a few of these items already.. It’s just too bad I chucked everything I had away to the Salvation Army – Wasn’t predicting another wee one for a few years yet.. BUT, with that said, I’ll take anything tossed my way.. I’m not dense enough to be too picky.. HOWEVER, the good thing is @ least I know what I definitely need & DON’T need so, this list isn’t all-inclusive but maybe it’ll give some other moms out there a few good ideas.. I’m also a stickler for top reviews so pretty much every item on this list has had really great reviews or I’ve had/used the product previously and am making a repeat buy it was so good..

Travel/Logistics

Having trouble deciding between the Joovy Caboose Tandem Stroller in the older model **149.96 @ Amazon**

OR the new Joovy Ultralight (only weighs 21 lbs)

The price difference is about $70 **229.99 @ most retailers** and I’m sure either will be great.. I used to have a stroller identical to this and it is the perfect stroller when you have an older child that still needs to rest their legs on long outings.. But I know the Ultralight supports pretty much every major brand of travel car seat so that may sway me to fork over the dough..

Speaking of car seats.. For the first 6 months I’ll use this

Graco Snug Ride Infant Car Seat in Spring Meadow - Pretty simple and standard.. Nothing too glitzy as I’m sure I won’t get a whole lot of use out of it.. Also got great reviews and good for the money. Boy will there be some happy moms @ my garage sale though! **69.99 @ Amazon**

Kiddopotamus & Co Snuzzler Complete Head & Body Support – Head support is essential for those early months of car trips.. Soo snuggly! Isn’t that baby adorable?! **15.38 @ Amazon**

Fisher Price Rainforest Auto Mirror – For neurotic moms.. Strike that - ALL Moms (as we are all neurotic) will want this for a little reassuring peek while driving.. Also attractive to baby **24.99 @ Amazon & Target**

Fisher Price Rainforest Car Seat Protector Plus – Good protection for baby’s little mishaps in the car seat (aka – it’s a piddlepad). Also has attached toys so it’s a 2 in 1 product **14.99 @ Amazon & Target**

Graco Vinyl Carseat Cover – Babies are surprisingly good mess makers and your car seats will thank you for this little buffer here.. **9.99 @ Amazon**

JJ Cole System Diaperbag (in Pink Cocoa) – Seems sturdy and roomy enough for all my kids crap **60.83 @ Amazon & BabiesRUs**

JJ Cole Logic Diaper Bag – Slim line, great for rushed on the go and comes in more neutral colors so Daddy won’t have any hang-ups about wearing it.. Luckily mine doesn’t care too much on that note so I’m getting it in Pink Cocoa **29.90 @ Amazon**

Sunshine Kids Stow’N Go – My car is often chaotic.. I need something to help cut that out. Poifect! **14.38 @ Amazon**

Sassy Baby Catepillar Suction Mobile – Can be used on any smooth surface but makes for a really great car toy **9.99 @ Amazon & Target**

Feeding

Dr. Brown’s Bottles (wide neck) – I’ve had two colicky babies and these work wonders.. I want to try to nurse this go around so the wide neck with the more “natural” shaped nipples should help the weaning stage and also for when I’m not around.. I need these in both 8 oz and 4 oz **14.99 for a 3 pack @ Amazon & other major retailers** and also need the stage 2 and the Y Cut Cereal Nipples

Dr. Brown’s 4 Bottle Microwave Sterilizer – I don’t have a dishwasher yet, per se, so this is going to be essential.. I hate the bother of boiling bottle gear **29.99 @ Amazon**

Sassy Baby Formula Dispenser – I’ll eventually make the switch to formula if not right away and these pre-measured compartments make it a snap for quick bottle making.. Just get baby used to ROOM temperature water and you’ll have yourself a bottle within 30 seconds everytime.. **3.49 @ Amazon**

Fisher Price Space Saver High Chair – Not a fan of full sized highchairs here.. This one doesn’t fold up or anything but it still relatively portable.. Looks quite cushy too compared to other booster seats.. **49.99 @ Amazon**

Boon Squirt – This ingenious little spoon has a squeezable handle that you put the baby food into.. then you screw the end back on and squeeze it a little bit to dispense some food onto the spoon.. One handed feeding! **7.99 ea. @ Amazon**

Munchkin Fresh Food Feeders – Great for giving fresh sliced produce without the worry of choking hazards.. **10.75 for 2 pack @ Amazon**

Sassy Baby 2 piece Suction Cup Gift Set, Multiple Colors – I’m getting a pretty plain highchair seat, so sticking these on there will take waiting for feeding time from torturous to “Hold the bananas sister, I’m playin’ here!” **11.99 @ Amazon**

Bathing/Hygiene

Baby Trend Diaper Champ – Newest model. Uses regular trashbags opposed to the Diaper Genie’s specialty liners so it’s better on the wallet and is less hassle from the Genie (I’ve had one before [Diaper Genie], not too crazy about it – kinda small too so hopefully this one is bigger) **29.99 @ Amazon & Target**

Summer Infant Bath Sling – For some reason the pink one is cheaper by $3 (it’s $16.99) and I have the old version & really loved it.. So this new model with the headrest should be very nice.. Folds up pretty flat and dries relatively quickly

Safety First Tubside Kneeler – With three kids to wash and chronic back problems, I’ll take anything that promises to help **14.99 @ Amazon & Target**

Boon Flo – Creates a waterfall out of your bathtub spicket.. Less noisy and scary for baby than the rushing onslaught of water **15.99 @ Amazon**

Burt’s Bees Baby Bee’s Getting Started Kit – All natural ingredients utilizing the wholesome goodness of the likes of buttermilk and apricots.. Who wouldn’t like their baby to smell like creamy fruit? Parfait baby! **13.99 @ Amazon & other major retailers**

Burt’s Bees Baby Bee Apricot Oil – Put a capful in the tub for a soothing, moisturizing, delicious bath **6.95 for 4oz. Bottle @ Amazon & other major retailers**

Shampoo Rinse Cup – My kids STILL don’t trust us to keep the water out of their eyes during bathtime so this might make it less scary for them and baby **8.99 @ Amazon & Leaps&Bounds.com**

Baby Einstein Bath Gift Set – I love BE products but any gender appropriate toweling set will be sufficient **16.99 @ Amazon & Target**

Summer Infant Healthcare and Grooming Kit – You get the most equipment for the price ($20), lots of great reviews (over 70) and it’s a reputable manufacturer

Basic Comfort Especially for baby Contoured Changing Pad – No changing table should go without.. **23.17 @ Amazon**

Boppy Changing Pad cover in Yellow – A little more plush than your average cover.. but a cover you should have to absorb any residual wetness from a bath or diaper change.. **19.99 @ Amazon & Target**

Playtime

Fisher Price Rainforest Jumperoo – In my opinion you should only need 3 major baby stations. Those would be 1.) a good playmat/playgym 2.) a swing and 3.) a stationary activity center like an exersaucer or this fabulous jumper! **69.99 @ Amazon & BabiesRUs**

Fisher Price Aquarium Take Along Swing – This is perhaps THE MOST essential baby activity toy one will ever buy.. It entertains! It lulls! It basically does everything short of washing your laundry.. I had the old version of this and it lasted thru two babies and a destructive toddler.. Take Along Swings are MUCH better than full sized ones cause they do the same job but they’re portable.. I’m a fanatic! **59.95 @ Amazon**

Baby Einstein Seek & Discover Activity Gym – Seen it in person and it’s very colorful – kinda on the small side but lots to see and do.. also has a little tummy pillow **49.99 @ Amazon & BabiesRUs**

Fisher Price Infant-to-Toddler Rocker – Relatively cheap ($30) and you get a long shelf life out of it.. Going against my “3 station” theory but I’m gettin’ it! (unless someone else wants to for me – speak up now!)

Fisher Price Rainforest Peek-A-Boo Waterfall Soother – Good reviews.. Cute little crib soother. Hope it does it’s job! **31.44 @ Amazon & Walmart**

Sassy Baby’s First Toy Set – It’s got gross motor skills down pat.. also has more nummy, gummy, teething toys than you can shake a stick at.. Great value for **23.99 @ Amazon**

Baby Einstein Shape Set – Toy set that looks pretty cute and entertaining **14.99**

Baby Einstein Baby’s Photo Book – You can slip pictures of family members in this plastic book so baby can get acquainted with siblings and even grandparents.. They’ll be doing enough staring @ you to know who you are! – It also has a water teether binding for some chewing action **5.99 @ Amazon**

Random

Carter’s BodySuits – I’ll take these in any gender appropriate color and size I can get them in.. Bear in mind that for the first 6 months it’ll be summer time for us so baby will need breathable little numbers like this.. Pretty much what she’ll be living in while @ the house (which is where I’ll be spending 90% of my summer – I don’t go out unless it’s nighttime and it’s still balls hot..) **14.40 for this 5 pack on Amazon**

Seasoned mothers know the necessity of having no-scratch mittens.. They are a must for a beautiful scratch free baby face cause their little talons can get razor sharp! **13.99 @ BabiesRUs**

The First Years – Airflow Back Sleeper – For those of us struck by the paralyzing fear of SIDS, this should help ease your worries a bit.. Sleep positioners don’t work for long but I had this one and was happy with it’s performance.. Shoot, I might even still have it.. I’ll find out next month **12.99 @ Amazon**

Twilight Turtle Constellation Nighlight - Great little nightlight here.. I think there also may be a lamb version but this fits in perfect with my Hawaiian nursery **30.00-35.00 @ Amazon**

Fisher Price Flutterbye Crib Mobile – Cutsey simple mobile for good price (less than $20 last I saw) – Also would fit in with my nursery theme.. **22.00 @ Walmart.com**

Boppy Pillow Covers – I already have the pillow, just need new covers.. Very useful product for feeding and for baby’s tummy time or just a good spot for them to chill for a few.. The first cover, the giggle gadget, looks really fun for play and the second cover is just 10 bucks.. It’s much more useful to have two handy for in case.. **17.99 & 9.99 @ Amazon**

Coast Innovations Itzbeen Baby Care Timer – I think I’ll need this just because I have two other kids to keep up with and my housekeeper helping me throughout the day – so it’d be a good thing to be on the same page **24.99 @ Amazon**

Raz-berry Teether – Good reviews.. Only to be used as a teether, it’s not a paci **5.99 @ Amazon**

Baby’s Bliss Gripewater – With so many good reviews it’s gotta be good.. I’ve never had a problem with Mylicon drops or Hyland’s Colic Tablets though but I’ll try this stuff.. Every baby gets gassy from time to time so you’ll need to plan ahead.. **16.32 for 8oz. @ Amazon**

Infantino Shop & Play Tiki Time – Another great cheap ($20) and multi-use product.. Use it on shopping carts AND restaurant high chairs for a safe germ free environment for baby.. You can also lay it flat for some tummy time action! **19.99 @ Amazon**

Now I’m sure most of these items can be found @ other stores like ToysRUs, BabiesRUs, Walmart & Target so they don’t NEED to be purchased from Amazon exclusively, but I do know that all are carried by them.. Also, I have an Amazon Prime account (a real life saver when you buy tons of crap from there – like I do) so if you see an item that has free shipping on prime shoot me a line and you can order it under my username if you want..

Anyway, now that I have it all listed out it seems like a pretty extensive list but still – this is just the tip of the iceburg.. Many parents get buttloads more stuff than this.. Especially first-timers.. Not everything on this list is 100% essential but I think I’ve sussed out what has potential to be useful. Again, I thank everyone who helped me and Pedro out when we were first getting our footing as parents.. We had all the essentials thanks to great family and friends who chipped in, donated and gave freely.. I’m thankful that we’re @ the point where we can afford to get tiny luxuries, as not all of these are essential – but I’ll still be just as thankful to get anything at all, big or small.. Thanks for reading and hope it helps someone @ least

Maternity Expo @ The Royale Hayat Hospital

2008-02-20T15:47:00.004+03:00

So I took Julie’s advice and dragged myself out of the house last night to go to this maternity expo that was happening @ one of the nicest hospitals here in Kuwait. Tatum’s teacher gave me an invitation so I also didn’t want to feel bad when I’d have to end up telling her on Sunday that I didn’t go.. I just wasn’t feeling so hot after my usual afternoon nap but I felt a lot better after dinner (which I made Chicken Salad sandwiches and home-made Minestrone Stoup).

Anywho, REALLY glad I went! There were a lot of vendors @ this thing from specialty baby boutique stores in and around Kuwait that I’d never heard of. There’s also a new organic market that’s opening up next week that I got info on.. I got TONS of info on a lot of things.. I left that place with my arms full of magazines, catalogues, booklets and business cards..

They also had some displays for specialty bedding and nightware for post-natal mothers but it was all VERY Arabic in style.. Meaning too ostentatious for me.. It’s all very lush with lace and satin and sequence.. It all reminded me of Scarlet O’Hara’s bedroom and clothing from Gone With The Wind.. I had a good internal chuckle over it..

But besides all that, I did see a lot that I was interested in.. Next week when Julie is better (everyone round here is fighting nasty colds it seems) – we’re going to go to this one particular store, in the same mall that we get our nails done, to see about getting me a crib. I think I’ve actually found a decently priced one (although NOT cheap) that is in the style I like and am used to (being that it’s an adjustable bed – one that baby won’t fall out of once she starts to pull up). It’ll all going to be good research for Julie too as she’s planning on getting knocked up this summer..

And while the Expo was great, my attention was more taken with the hospital itself.. I’ve heard a lot of good things about the Royale Hayat but I’d never checked it out for myself.. I’d convinced myself that I’m just fine @ Al Salam (which is still a stellar facility). HOWEVER, I was blown away by the grandeur of this place.. From top to bottom it looks like a 5 star hotel (which is exactly the effect they were going for). The interior is so rich and modern – the lobby ridiculously grandiose.. I asked one of the receptionists for a tour of one of the more basic post-natal suites and she was more than happy to oblige..

OMFG yall! That room was out of this world! Just the trip TO the room in the hallway and you really feel like you’re on a damn penthouse floor.. It’s huge for starters – lots of seating. The bed is sooo comfy! It has a 40 in plasma screen TV that also has hookups to a webcam in the nursery that keeps watch over your baby 24/7 so you can always see what’s going on with them.. The bathroom is redonkulously luxe. A sit down shower with the capacity for 4 people at least! It also has a fully stocked mini bar (no alcohol though ☹) AND it has a kitchenette! I was swooning! So on Saturday when I go back, I’m going to check in with the maternity department to see about switching my records and setting up my next appointment there..

And why will I be there on Saturday in the first place you ask? Well.. this HOSPITAL also has a full on luxury spa inside! And being that this is Hala February (sales time) AND that I attended the expo, I’m getting a 3 hour pre-natal spa session for %25 OFF! I am stupid giddy about that! They also have a “Spa Cuisine” restaurant, “Tamarind” so that’s where I’m headed for lunch.. Pedro’s being so good to me on this count, I’m going to insist he go ATVing again soon and have another boys day out.. He’s going to need all the rest he can get as well before it’s back to the baby grind..

Anyway, here are some links to the hospital and spa and such.. If anyone wants to come visit me in Kuwait, by all means.. I gots the hook up! ☺

www.royalehayat.com
www.banyantreespa.com

And for ATVing and a really nice dinner or resort stay here’s the site to the Kempinski – Where Kev & Julie had their wedding

www.kempinski-kuwait.com

Here’s also some links to some of the stores and products I viewed @ the Expo

www.cryo-save.com (for storing cord blood stem cells)
www.organicfoodsandcafe.com
www.jellybeanzshop.com
www.basketsmadeperfect.com (customized gift baskets for baby and any other occasion)
www.stokke.com (Norweigian made read: expensive baby gear products)
www.noppies.com (maternity wear)
www.mamasandpapas.com (a UK based babystore)
www.mothercare.com (another UK based general needs store for family)

Ain't No Other Man

2008-02-18T15:45:00.000+03:00

Ain’t No OtherMan
Current mood: breezy
Category: Blogging

Brag About Your Man Survey

** What is your husband's name??- Pedro.. P-Diddy @ work

** When did he become your husband?? - November 15th, 2002

** When did you know he was the one??- When we broke up and he left for Afghanistan but STILL wrote to me and called me every chance he got.. He even sent me flowers and gifts.. For 6 months we still stayed in touch and when he came back it just clicked..

** Does he have any brothers??- He has a little half brother and a much older step brother who are both gay.. not that that matters in the least but I just think it's ironic.. Given how much my Father In-Law hates gays and yet he's had a hand in both of these guys upbringing from early ages.. Pedro was already 9 by the time his parents got married

** Does he have any sisters??- He has two older step sisters and they're super nice

** What does he look like?

- He's not too tall but thankfully not shorter than me.. He has coarse black curly hair (that's where Tatum gets her dark curls but she gets the soft hair from me!), big chocolate-colored eyes, he sports a natural goatee and sometimes mountain-man scruff these days but if he shaved I swear he instantly looks 18 again..

He's not husky but has very broad shoulders for his size.. He's gotten just a lil' pudgy around the center since going civilian but I don't mind ;P.. Overall he has a soft handsome face and a really great goofy grin..

** What's his style?
- He is an avid polo and jean wearer.. always with dark timberland boots and his little raybans.. Still pretty preppy, as always..

** What are his hobbies?
- Well he doesn't get to do much of his two favorite things (go quading or shoot stuff) – so he spends most his free time playing MMORPG games.. he got me sucked into his twisted addiction too

** Are you happy??- With him? Sure.. He's given me a lot of freedom in life and I'm forever indebted to him.. He's also happy to let me be my sassy, bossy, witty, sometimes overbearing self.. He's never once asked me to change anything about myself and for me, that's big coming from a home like I did..

** What does he do for a living?
- He's a jack of all trades in the IT field.. But more specifically he's a Network Security Analyst and pretty damn good at his job!

** Does he sing to you?
- No cause he knows I'll just correct him when he uses the wrong lyrics..

** Does he dance with you??- We don't dance often no.. Not a lot of chances to. But I think the most romantic dance we've ever had was under the stars @ Chicago's Navy Pier

** Do you have children??- Do dogs like to piss on trees? We've always wanted children ever since our dating years.. We got our wish a little too early though :P

** How many??- We've got both kinds and another one of the sweet kind coming soon..

** How many do you want??- He wanted 2 and I wanted 4 so we've met somewhere in the middle

** Has he ever served in the military?
- 82nd Airborne Paratrooper - 33whisky – 525th MI Brigade - 319th Military Intelligence Battalion - Combat Veteran (as in, he was a part of a SF team that actually hunted down Taliban) - Sniper Qualified - SEREs Trained – Top of his class in PLDC – NCO/E-5 @ age 21 CERTIFIED BADASS – Does that about cover it? Lol – Delta Force tried to lure him to stay in the army but I was tired of military life.. Too bad those who shall not be named! Military wifedom is not for me

** Does he buy you flowers??- When he remembers that it's a special flower giving day.. At least he knows my favorites

** If yes, is it only for occasions??- Pretty much.. I think he's only brought me flowers as an apology twice in all the time we've been together

** Does he do any chores?
- Just your basic man stuff.. Garbage, dog poo, mowing and the like.. I love how the army taught him the value of doing his own laundry but I've never seen him do a single load!

** Does he write you love letters??- He wrote me one actual on paper, with a pencil, honest to god love letter 7 years ago that I still have in my possession

** Does he tell you he loves you or only says it after you do??- He tells me he loves me umpteen times everyday.. I think it's more to get me to say it back though.. he's such an attention whore :P

** Is he romantic??- It's within his capabilities but with 2 kids he can't always be rico suave.. I consider him giving the kids a bath alone or picking them up from school so I can get some free time romantic though, lol

** Does he tell you your beautiful??- Last thing he says before he leaves in the morning and at least twice more @ night while I'm making dinner and when we go to bed..

Now repost this for all your married friends to take and brag on (or bitch about) their husbands! Have fun

Wedding of The Year

2008-02-16T15:40:00.000+03:00

I’ll get pictures soon, but K & J’s wedding was off the hook fun! It was held @ the Kempinski – a resort almost an hour out from Kuwait City..

Early in the day, Pedro took the day off and went with the Groom and a few other friends to go ATVing there (you can rent quads by the hour). Apparently a blast was had by all.. The then had snacks and changed in Rodriguezs’ room..

A few hours later I showed up and headed to the kitchen to stage the last part of my production, which was basically icing all the cakes.. The cakes turned out great.. It all tasted really good buy I was unhappy with my frostings.. And the sprinkles that I special ordered to go on the carrot cakes didn’t even stick! I did get them all done and arranged them on my cake stand with greenery so it still looked very nice in the end.. I even got loads of compliments for mediocre work and also two more catering requests.. (Think I’m done with catering though until after the summer.. my feet hated me later on). But it felt GOOD to be back in a real kitchen.. The Exec Sous Chef barked to everyone that whatever I wanted, they were supposed to supply me.. I got SO many startled looks (like, what is a WOMAN doing here.. pregnant.. and in a chef’s jacket!) but they were ALL very friendly and complying.. They all called me “chef” and wanted to know if I was to become a permanent fixture.. I was observed with great interest, as I was doing my production.. So all that was great for the ego boost..

After getting that done I got ready in the bridal suite with Julie and Phoebe, the wedding planner.. There was a fierce sandstorm out that day so that squashed their plans for an outdoor wedding but they set up the ceremony in an inside room and it all went off.. They were so adorable exchanging their vows.. When asked about honoring eachother in the future she said “we will” and he said “we do”. The minister then joked, “The Canadian said “we will” and the American says “we do”..” – lol.. I told Kevin he should of said “we does”.

Then after that there were mocktails and horsdeurves and then we all headed down to the little restaurant where the reception was to be hosted.. It had a show kitchen in it, so that’s where the entrée’s were prepared by a little team of chefs.. The food, start to finish, was amazing.. I think everyone was pretty impressed.. They even managed to scrounge up a case of bubbly so people were buzzedly happy later on on the dance floor.. Pedro was also one of 3 who were designated to give a speech and he did an awesome job! I was very proud of him.. It was a very sweet speech. He was also a little social butterfly all night.. bouncing from table to table.. I had a pretty great time myself, actually getting to talk to grown peoples.. And not about kids either! It was refreshing..

We had a really good time and I think that day was very rejuvenating for the both of us.. We need more time outs like that.. So here’s to Mr. & Mrs. H! You guys are one fantastic couple and I look forward to many years of friendship!

My Heartsy Hallmark Holiday

2008-02-15T15:39:00.002+03:00

Valentine’s Day was pretty regular for me this year.. Except I spent the better part of it baking those cakes for Julie and Kev’s wedding.. My feet were throbbing @ the end of the day..

But I didn’t want it to be another lame day like it was last year (seriously, I don’t think we celebrated ANY holidays since moving to Kuwait). SO, while in TSC picking up my last minute ingredients for the cakes, I picked up some other little things..

Pedro worked late that night AND still went to the barber to get his wooly mammoth fro cut off.. By the time he got home it was 9:00, but, I had waiting upstairs a hot bath by candlelite, a chicken sandwich, a dozen chocolate covered strawberries, wine (for him – sparkling juice for me) and a racy little card.. He in turn produced his regular bouquet of roses and mega box of Lindt Chocolates (which he knows is my fave). I also got a mighty fine footrub afterwards so.. Cheesy? Perhaps.. But in spite of the passé reason for the occasion, we had a nice late evening..

Best Valentine’s Day yet! ☺

Children & My Veiled Sistafriends

2008-02-14T15:39:00.000+03:00

Children and My Veiled Sistafriends
Current mood: chipper

**Warning: Long Blog Ahead**

So yesterday was a very busy, very interesting day for this (not so) lil' mama..

I took Drake to the hospital to update his shot records (he has to get a tuberculosis shot it seems.. It's pretty much eradicated in the US but is still very prevalent in eastern communities so it's better to do it than not..) – They are so vaccine happy over here.. they give so many.. Even to pregnant women! (I am, however, opting out). But he's healthy and normal (relatively) so 5 yr checkup all okay jumpmaster!

I then walked down to the dental clinic to see about getting him an appt cause his tooth has been bothering him lately (the one he rammed up back into his gums a year ago.. his one front tooth had to be pulled but he got to keep the other) – I talked to the receptionist a bit and admitted that even I haven't seen a dentist since I was 17! She was horrified and insisted Drake and I be seen @ once.. So we were ? (another thing I love about this place – you come early enough in the morning and you can be seen @ any type of clinic).

So we were seen.. I had my teeth cleaned first and yay! NO decay or anything else wrong for that matter.. Sugarcube did NOT like all the noise the dental equipment made and she took out her displeasure on my womb.. Then Drake got a quick look-see in that little cookie hole of his.. It seems as if that other front tooth is already loose and he has an abscess above it, so to prevent further spread of infection and more tooth pulling he has to get that tooth extracted.. it'll be a lovely look for him for the next two years.. front tooth-less.. I also don't even want to know how bad this is going to affect his speech therapy.. It's really the last thing he needs but trust I'm gonna keep up the prayer chain on that one..

After all that, Tatum had her speech therapy and Drake and I ran some errands while we waited for her.. She was such a good girl and is making great progress there (she's actually giving me simple answers to questions I ask her now – yay!). Drake didn't get to play like he usually does when we wait for her so I wanted to treat them to an hour on the playground.. Only problem is, is I can't really find an appealing, clean and SAFE playground here.. And if there is a good one it's always packed! I had seen a long string of playgrounds along 40 and always wanted to check them out so that's just what we did..

When we got there it was deserted and it's all fenced off (actually something I really like about it). I wasn't really certain we were allowed to be there but I found a gate opening and we went on in anyway.. It's actually pretty decent but the only interesting thing it had for my kids was a slide.. It's a great place to bring bikes and a soccer ball though!

Eventually people did start to trickle in (everyone must have been getting up from their 1 pm naps).. All the people coming in were like hardcore Muslim families though.. One family came in a made a little picnic spot under some palm trees while their nannies took the older children to play on the equipment ( and when I say family I mean a traditional Muslim family – one man, multiple wives and a plethora of children). After awhile the man got up to go play soccer with some of his older sons (funny to see a man do that in a dishdasha btw). My back had about had it and I think the kids were all slid out so we made our way back to the car.. In doing so we passed two of the women from that family and they called out to me "Hi! Hello! Come, come!" – and motioned me over. Now, these must have been Saudi women I take it, from the fact that they were wearing the full hijab that veils the face – so needless to say I was pretty damn shocked they were initiating conversation with my white Christian ass..

I was so excited so I shimmied the kids over there in order to talk to them.. Unfortunately they deceived me with their hellos and I quickly came to the realization that they couldn't speak English.. But they were so enthralled with us and asked (with lots of gestures) if it was okay to take pictures of me and the kids (something their culture is very touchy about but I think they knew since I was western I don't have any hang-ups on that note..). They took buttloads of pictures and rubbed on my belly, wanting to know how far along I was.. Then they gave Drake and Tatum their own bags of chips and sodas.. I didn't know what else to say except "Shukrahn" (thank you in Arabic) over and over.. I didn't feel right, them sharing so implicitly with us and not being able to give anything back but it's impolite to refuse things and I doubt they wanted the small pack of lifesavers in my purse anyway – lol! They also kept wanting to grab and hold Tatum (they LOVE children and white children are especially novel to them). But since they were wearing veils I think that freaked Tatertot out cause she kept clutching on to me and shrieking.. lmao – poor baby, she must have though she was in the twilight zone.. But when they weren't trying to grab her she was very friendly with them jabbering on with her hellos and munching on her chips..

I didn't want to stay too long incase their husband came back (that would be improper for me to be around then without my own husband) - and I had to get home to make dinner so I thanked them profusely and we made our way home..

It was really damn refreshing though and I think my heart softened a little bit right there on the spot towards Kuwait and the arab community as a whole.. I love it when people go against my expectations (most of the time). But I think that's what I've been missing here.. I really do need to make friends with some locals to endear this place to me.. I think it would make this place seem more personal and intimate, and I in turn wouldn't be so bitter towards it.. I'm also extremely interested in befriending people of different faiths.. I'd never push my own and won't tolerate pushing on me but a better understanding from the horses' mouth so to speak, would be immensely fascinating to me..

We'll see.. @ the rate I'm going I'm expecting another random conversation with an Arab woman by tomorrow! Lol.. Speaking of tomorrow I am Uber excited about Kevin and Julie's Wedding.. I'm finished with all my cakes.. I made a pineapple upside down cake (Kevin's fav and it'll be their "cutting" cake) and then I made two dozen each of white chocolate carrotcake cupcakes with creamcheese buttercream and German chocolate cupcakes.. This is all going to go on my white wooden three tiered stand so I'm expecting it to look really nice.. Best part is, I was invited by the resort's Executive Chef to finish my production in a private room in his kitchen! I still have to ice the cupcakes so I'll need a space to do that in.. I'm super stoked about being in a "real" kitchen again.. And then, honored gal that I am, I get to get ready in the bride's suite so we'll be getting' purty together.. Yay yay yay.. Catch yall in a couple days! I am BEAT

Husbands Make for Grumpy All-Day Sitters

2008-02-13T15:38:00.002+03:00

Husbands make for grumpy all-day sitters
Current mood: chill
Category: Blogging

Another up and down week here in the sandpit I call my life..

I blogged before about us gearing up to switch villas and last week, while Pedro was trying to get a contract set, some unexpected shit happened and he initially was told "No". He was told no because in some assbackwards way, even though this new villa has cheaper rent than the one we're in, it turned out being more expensive in the long run due to KRH tacking on all these rental fees.. The dumb betch who is Pedro's liason from KRH didn't tell him that they were adding all these stupid things like +100KD for furnishing the apartment and even more money to pay for the phone and internet (which we pay for here). He told her we didn't need furnishing - obviously that isn't in our current contract right? Look it up.. She's all "Oh....". Yeah bitch, Oh! I swear I don't know why people can't put two and two together these days..

So now that the rent is back to the same level we're expecting some approval this week and then hopefully I'll be able to set up house in it's entirety by the time sugarcube arrives.. I'm going to be a complete mess otherwise - once I hit that nesting phase (and it hits me pretty hard - I was a regular workhorse of my own account before Tatum came. And that was through excruciating back pain.. but Pedro couldn't move fast enough for me so I set up the crib :D).

On other notes, I went to Julie's pseudo-bachelorette party on Saturday. We ate @ the Peacock Chinese Restaurant @ the Radisson (John McCain's fav restaurant in Kuwait btw, lucky Jen got to meet him! She meets all the senators and congressmen that come through here). There were no strippers but one of Julie's arab friends offered to show up and take off his dishadasha.. That was a pass xD. I didn't really care too much for the food (it's all too cornstarchy for me but everyone else loves it there), but I made some new acquaintances.. Mommy types too so that's a start.. I've definately got to go to the next AWL meeting.. I hear they're trying to set up a playgroup this year so that would be perfect on my end.. I loved my old playgroup in VA..

Another interesting thing that happened to me was when I was out shopping @ the avenues on Saturday (Btw, Pedro took the kids for the WHOLE day AND night so I got a much needed/appreciated breather - he finally got a taste of what I have to deal with and let me tell ya, at the end of the day, he wasn't no happy camper! lol) - anyway, I was shopping and stopped to pick up some black glitter makeup to experiment with.. After stopping by the Benefit counter to see what was new I went around smelling perfumes and while testing out Britney Spear's latest some sales lady came up to me and just started a whole deep converstation with me about how sad the whole Britney situation makes her and that quickly jumped to love to men to dating and her dead fiancee.. This would have been weird just anyway, but I was just standing there kinda shocked cause this was a Kuwaiti chick who was talking to me.. I was like, "Oh muh gah, an Arab is actually talking to me! This is cool..". It happens occasionally but it just isn't common and I've never actually talked with an arab woman outside of business.. She asked me a bunch of questions, told me how beautiful I was and gave me a buncha free samples.. So that kinda made my already stellar day a little more awesome.. maybe I'll go back and ask if she wants to get some coffee.. She seemed pretty funny and she hates Kuwait so we might get along :P..

Anyway, the time is upon me to go get Tatum from nursery.. I'll return when I have something of partial interest to talk about.. Toodles!

PS - found my wallet so HUZZAH! I really did not feel like replacing all my cards and civil ID.. what a nightmare

In My Most Annoying Prayer Call Voice: Haaaalllaaa February!

2008-02-10T15:36:00.001+03:00

As of February 15th, It's officially "Hala February" here in Kuwait. Exactly what that means and exactly what it is they're celebrating I have no idea. Even after living here for more than a year I don't have that great profundity about the things they celebrate - but if anyone knows Kuwaitis, they know they'll think of any reason to party (and party lamely I might add).

For the most part I think it's just a month long bruhaha in which they celebrate their National Liberation Day – February 26th. (Side Note: They celebrate their liberation but not a whole lot is said about the US being the ones that liberated them from the Iraqi invasion – In fact I don't think Kuwaitis did a damn thing during that conflict.. I hear a lot of them fled the country). Additionally they also look to this month as a major tourist draw – "Hala", afterall, meaning "Welcome" in Arabic.

It's also a time of celebrating the up and coming, short-lived spring season (which here in Kuwait lasts from late February to early May – after which the oppressive summer heat starts to set in). Spring time really is the best time here. The flowers are perky and all the trees and grass look lush and green.. It really does become a kind of desert oasis and for brief moments in time you almost forget you're in Kuwait at all.. Even the air seems a little fresher with strong winds coming off the gulf (although, I don't think there's wind enough to clear out that sess pool of a mess they call "downtown").

And during this celebration they hold a lot of little festivals and really try to make it a family affair.. I think the Kuwaitis and most other Arabs for that matter really do love their kids – they just have a much different way of raising them. But all in all, kids are adored here. So there are lots of parades, raffles and entertainment shows..

But I think what most expats think about when Hala February rolls around are the SALES!! Pretty much EVERY store has a sale going on at this time and it's the perfect opportunity to get that new little luxury you've been eyeing all winter.. In fact, I think Hala February's second connotation is "The Shopping Festival".

And with so many designer stores that they got around here, now is relatively the only time a lot of us splurge and go for the good stuff.. I think last year my friend Julie swiped over 200KD worth of BCBG loot for around 36KD – and that was only like 45 minutes worth of shopping..

One other cool thing about this time is that Kuwaiti's throw strings of lights over anything that stands, and who doesn't like stringed lights? Their Liberation Tower, Kuwait Towers and water towers look especially cool @ night time, apart from being pretty decent spectacles during the day..

So I'm looking forward to taking the kids to one of the parades, just to say we've done it and Mama has been eyeing a surround sound system @ Alghanim for more than a few months so I'm eager to see what they have going on.. I leave you with some pretty cool/humorous pics

These are some of the water towers they have here and they all look this way.. I think it's rather ironic that they're shaped like giant martini glasses and yet alcohol is banned in this country..

Here's a good one of the Liberation Tower @ night.. There's supposed to be a restaurant up in there somewhere, I'll have to ask around

These are of course the "famed" Kuwaiti Towers.. There are 3 restaurants in the big ball, one of which I've been to (decent philly cheese steaks) - and it revolves for a panoramic view which I think is cool.. This is like their version of Lady liberty.. /stifles laughter

I know he's probably just announcing something but I keep imagining him saying, in a deep Arabic accent "I-like-big-abayas and I cannot lie.. You otha brothas cannot deny.."

Aww, bobble head Aladdin! Needless to say that movie was entirely inaccurate at painting a portrayal of Saudi royalty.. A princess choose HER husband? Pisha!

The parade they have on Hamad Mubarak St. I think.. I'll have to double check..

Don't ask cause I don't even know..

I'm just adding this for shits and giggles but this is the bank thats nearest to my house where I withdraw cash from.. (National Bank of Kuwait) - Slightly comical

Nursery Theme Unveiled

2008-02-08T15:35:00.000+03:00

So right now I'm in the midst of planning out the next nursery.. I always thought it'd be neat to do a Luau/Beachy/Surf/Aloha/Hawaiian themed room somewhere in my home (as an ode to my Hawaiian childhood) - and then it dawned on me that this nursery would be a great chance to do that! It'd go so well.. And there're a lot of cute ideas out there that fit right in with this theme – I don't think I'll possibly have room for them all!

First things' first though, and that is the crib bedding. I'm waiting 'til next month for a 100% confirmation that it's still girl but I've fallen for this cute set right here by bungalow beach designs..

It'll be the only pink thing in the room besides some accent pieces but I'm trying to vary the nursery in a wide range of tropical/sunny colors.

I'm going to paint a backdrop mural of the ocean, a shining sun and a beach and then buy large stickers for detail – like this large palm tree decal and these fluffy cloud stickers from SurfsideBaby - (they look better than anything I'll be able to paint anyway – my painting is often very cartoony)

Alternatively, I could also use this funny inflatable palm tree.. That could be fun!

Then additionally I'm going to paint Hawaiian scenes on small 8"x12" canvas' and I'm also going to paint about 8-9 square wood framed mirrors to match just like I've done in Tatum's room..

For more accent I'm going to get a raffia skirt valence trimmed in the same fabric as the crib bedding.. It'll also be cute to have a raffia table skirt going around the changing table.

I'm also going to hang a faux cloths-line with painted pins and have some of Tatum and Drake's old swimsuits and Hawaiian shirts hanging.. And also if I can find a toy hammock that looks like a real hammock that would be great but I'd settle on jury-rigging a tropical sarong as well.. But this one looks pretty close to being real hammock material..

And lastly, if I can procure some cute tropical/marine stuffed animals, faux flower leis and some little tiki statues to put here and there I think that is gonna be off the chain adorable.. I'd probably paint over the tikis in the same kinds of color schemes as the nursery, like I'm going to do to this Tiki Hut sign…

..Just to make them pop and flow better with the room because there won't be any darkness in there to be found..

Here's some more accent pieces for wall decoration that I plan on hanging in the nursery

Beach Babe License Plate:

Surfer Girl Wood Sign:

Surfboard Pegboard:

Surfboard Rug:

I think no matter which way I go it'll turn out cute.. There are just too many options for it not to!

All the Baby Predictions..

2008-02-08T15:33:00.001+03:00

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WAY OFF BASE! Gah! Even my own! So with a Dr. approved * 90% Chance it’s a girl * (you know how ultrasound techs are – Don’t blame me if you have to toss out all that pink stuff you bought!) ~ I have no problem with announcing that we’re..

So yah.. I was in somber shock for about an hour.. I mean, I felt so damn sure.. I nagged my OB extensively on the subject.. “Are you sure nothings there? I don’t have anywhere to be.. You can keep looking.. So the penis is usually pretty prominent right? And nothing’s there?”. LoL! But she looked in every possible position and we couldn’t make out anything extra.. just an extra long line down the middle so you know what that means.. Pedro is OUTNUMBERED! Mwah hahahah! Apparently he prefers to make sweetness ☺

It’s been hard letting go of all those boy thoughts I’ve been carrying around for 4 months but I’m slowly getting used to the thought of two little girls! Whatever am I going to do with myself? Hopefully Tatum turns out to be a fun and patient big sister.. And it’ll no longer be “Mommy Daughter” Day Outs.. It’ll be Girls Day Out! I’m just over the moon to finally know.. I’m going to add and switch all the stuff in my baby registry to things more geared towards girl but on the whole I’m going to keep things pretty neutral and not go overboard with the pink.. Next ultrasound should be my “100% without a doubt” and then I’ll start making gender specific purchases.. But yeh – now commences the final name deliberations.. I think Pedro’s so excited he’s going to let me go with pretty much whatever.. He’s knows he’s doomed, why fight it? ☺ ☺ ☺

I'm 1/2 Way to Gettin' That Fork Stuck In Meh..

2008-02-06T12:42:00.003+03:00

* I am 50% finished makin' this baby! – But I doubt I'll still be pregnant in another 20 weeks.. Drake and Tatum were 6 and 4 weeks early respectively.. But still !

* Baby is putting on weight - going on 10 oz - (about as much as this can of Budweiser here [if we are to assume that it not only has a volume of 10oz. but also weight – thinkin' like a baker since the two aren't always the same])

What a little porker!

* And she is between 6-7 inches long (about as long as these here stripper shoes are high :D)

* Baby can blink now and differentiate between dark and light

* More hair is coming in everyday (and knowing my babies – she's gonna have a head full of the stuff – most likely jet black too) Baby knows my voice (and will probably be able to suss out it's sister and brother's screeching no doubt! I'm sure she'll recognize their names too given how many occasions I shout them out during the day)

* Baby's heartbeat is so strong now that it can be heard through a stethoscope (my OB is lazy however and continues to use the sonogram machine – which I don't mind a tick!)

* Baby is practicing her breathing skills by breathing in amniotic fluid – I just think that's so bizarre! I also wonder, since next month baby will start shifting into birthing position (upside down), does the blood rush to their heads @ all or are they in this weird non-gravitational environment? LoL

* Babygirl is developing her taste buds right about now so crazy-ass craving overdrive here I come!

* Baby's sense of touch will become more developed in another week or two and she'll start exploring the womb and herself with those skinny little fingers I saw on the ultrasound screen..

Speaking of "seeing" her – My OB was showing me all of her body parts and the ultrasound for the most part looks very skeletal because of lack of body fat on the baby.. She got a good face shot of her and kept pressing down on it and that must have pissed little one off cause she was all about covering her face and rolling over – lol, like she was being accosted by some paparazzi.. The Sonogram Paparazzi!

It's also a good thing I brought up the fact that I get frequent UTIs during pregnancy with my OB. That's why I had to have my blood drawn and urine taken last week. Turns out I do, in fact, have a slight UTI @ the moment so I've made myself some 100% home-made no-shit cranberry juice and am drinking a shot of it everyday.. It is some of the nastiest crap but people swear by it.. Hopefully that will kill it dead and it won't be an issue.. But UTIs + being pregnant = bad news. UTIs can jumpstart contractions so you don't want that happening in your 5th month like what happened when I had Drake..

Other than that, I'm feeling pretty swell on the whole. I think my belly growth had slowed down some for a couple weeks there. I was positive I would be like a Goodyear Blimp about now but overall I'm pretty tiny @ the ½ way mark, so I'm happy with that.. My lower back is starting to feel the strain but there's not a whole lot I can do about that outside of superficial treatments.. After the baby is born I'm heading over to an Orthopedist to get X-rayed..

Anyway – here's some fetal images @ 20 weeks.. Bizarrely adorable

I'm Goin' JLo On Yall! :D

2008-02-05T11:55:00.002+03:00

I’m goin’ JLo on yall :D  Current mood: amused  Category: Blogging

So while perusing the daily addiction of mine that is dlisted, I stumbled upon this little diddy about JLo ordering "designer" hospital gowns to wear while she's giving birth 

JLo's Couture Hospitalgowns (www.dlisted.com/taxonomy/term/117)

@ first I thought, "Oh Geez". But then the more I got to thinking about it, it started to make a helluva lot of sense. I mean, do any of us really relish being in those nasty used hospital gowns? I know I don't! And to have one in a pleasing cute color would make for great "right after" pictures - you know, after the fight of umpteen hours of labor and who knows how many pushes - you always get your picture taken with your newborn.. Probably THE MOST unglamourous picture you will ever have taken of yourself, so why not have a *lil'* something going for you in the appearance department?

So that's why I'm going ahead and ordering my own with a matching robe (I need a new lightweight robe anyway - it'll be summer time). You can get the same ones from dearjohnnies.com

Apparently they've been mentioned in a bunch of publications and magazines so JLo sure ain't the first or last.. But anyway, it's a novel idea.. Glad I stumbled upon it - Thanks MichaelK!

It's Bout Time to Make That Move

2008-02-05T11:52:00.001+03:00

It’s bout that time to move..  Current mood: accomplished  Category: Goals, Plans, Hopes
My mind has been so full here lately since me and Pedro decided it'd be best to move to a different villa. The one we live in is nice and the neighborhood is well established and clean but we just can't seem to get any damn internet in this joint. The crappy service we do have disconnects on us so often it makes calling out on our Packet8 pretty much impossible..   So we decided to go villa hunting in a neighborhood that our friends live in. It's farther out, and in an up and coming area (ie; houses still being constructed) but at least we know they have high speed internet @ their place. There are SO many villas for rent in that area (Egalia/Agalia). We've actually settled on a nice one literally across the street from the Voth's house. Hopefully we'll get a contract together and signed this week and be ready to move next month. It all depends on how fast KRH works (that's the company outsourced by NG in Kuwait to handle all our domestic issues).  The only thing the place needs is a phone line installed (takes about a month – 2 months) and strangely enough they need to work in a hook up for a washer machine in their plumbing.. I don't know how they could have overlooked that but Pedro told the guy it's pretty imperative we have clean clothes.. Can't send EVERYTHING to dry cleaning!   Other than that it's a brand new villa (maybe 2 yrs old max) and doesn't look like anyone's lived in it really.. I'll be so excited to take pictures of this place compared with the place we're living in now.. Everything flows in this new place (more or less, Kuwaitis aren't necessarily known for their great tastes). It's all white marble flooring, white walls.. (Not like this place with it's 12 different kinds of tile and rainbow paintjob). The kitchen actually has upper cabinets and they're WOOD. It's actually a homey looking kitchen. The one I have now is so industrial looking with all the stainless steel.. I feel like I'm @ work in a grill restaurant and I don't much care for that kind of ambiance..   The bathrooms all have the same tile but each one is a different color – but at least they flow.. And the house is pretty open, not all sectioned off like this one so I'll be able to actually see the kids playing while I'm in the kitchen or the living room.. It's got 5 bedrooms – the maid's room is inside – and it has a 2nd living room on the second floor, which I'm going to make into my office/craft area.. I'll also put all the kids arts & craft supplies up there and make a mini playroom so I can keep an eye on them when I need to do online stuff.. I'm also thinking about moving my smaller refrigerator up there since it's a pretty substantial space..   Pedro insists on having his office in the downstairs bedroom but I told him he'll have to share that room as the guest bedroom cause I have nowhere else to put the guest bed and I don't really want the kids sharing rooms – (although, with two girls, they could share rooms for a long time to come but I want them to have their own space with their own themes going on and as long as this thought doesn't cross Pedro's mind, as it hasn't yet, we'll be good.. :D).   And last but not least, it has GRASS! Which is a premium in this place.. The house and compound it's-self is gated off but outside the gate are two large sectioned off pieces of land with grass so I'm thinking that's where I'll put the swingset.. We'll also still have covered car parking so I think this place has all our needs covered, more than amply.. We'll also be close to friends (even our maids are friends so that's a benny for them) AND we'll be within 5 minutes of not one but TWO of my favorite Japanese restaurants!  Anyway, so crossing muh fingers on that.. Hope my landlord doesn't turn out to be a douche. But as long as he does those two things and keeps up the maintenance we'll be golden..   Well I must away – I've got some online ordering to do (which SUCKS with bad internet) – Have a great day whoever you ares!

Occasionally They Deserve It

2008-01-29T11:50:00.000+03:00

Occasionally, they deserve it..  Current mood: distressed  Category: Blogging

I had in my mind what I wanted to blog about earlier but meh.. This pregnancy is eating my brains! I will say however, that I have mistaken this behbeh for a quiet little wallflower..   Last night while enjoying my regular hot shower in which I pamper myself wiffs all my scrubs and oils, I was reaching over for my shampoo when I received a sucker punch to my right side.. - It startled the shit outta me! Lol.. I even cried out loud, you know, like you do when you think somethings hurting you and then you sit back and realize you're not really in any pain and then you feel like a dumbass? Lmao.. I even dropped to my knees like I was taking cover from something! It was just the one kick but I don't recall ever being kicked before with such force.. And especially for a tiny little thing as it is now! I tried provoking another kick for the rest of the night but to no avail ?  On a more serious note, Pedro is gone to Iraq for a few days for a tech conference for work.. Not something either of us is relishing.. And before he left this morning I was under the impression that he'd be there all week – maybe even for two.. So I've been pretty down in the dumps about it. I was also upset because that meant I was going to have to postpone my big prenatal appointment on the 3rd. But yes, before he left he told me he'd be coming back Thursday night.. And then he made some off color joke about me receiving one of those bad DoD letters.. That's when my hormones go the best of me and I broke our hands-off policy and smacked him one! Like.. what a retard! What a thing to say to your pregnant wife.. Anyway, even though he deserved it I was immediately mortified.. Luckily he laughed it off – although still in disbelief by just being slapped – and we had a good good-bye.. I just hope he doesn't freeze his ass off sleeping in those tents.. Poor guys over there! I wanted to send some cookies with him for the soldiers but he had his suitcase and Kevlar to lug around so.. I guess I can just do it through the mail..   Anyway, bout time for the Taters to wake up from her beauty rest so I better jet.. I painted her nails hot pink yesterday and she is so adorable about it! She stops what she's doing sometimes to blow on her fingers.. Love havin' a girl!

Gettin' Up There (week 18)

2008-01-25T11:46:00.001+03:00

Gettin’ Up There..  Current mood: calm  Category: Blogging

Wewt! Up to week 18 now! It's still a long way off so that's why I've toned it down with the weekly updates.. It makes me feel like this pregnancy is taking forever.. and I haven't even reached the half way mark yet! I'm starting to get all fluttery @ the thought of my appt on the third though.. I realize it could go either way but I've never felt so strongly before that this is what I think it is.. My mind is so wrapped up in boy thoughts.. Don't get me wrong, I'm just thrilled to be having a baby period - but this intuition is pretty strong..

Before I had kids I thought to myself that I hoped I never had any boys.. I can't tell you why exactly.. I suppose I thought they'd be ucky or tough to handle.. OF COURSE, now that I have a daughter I can tell you there is absolutely NO difference in the sexes when it comes to being yucky OR adorable/hilarious! Boys are just as much fun.. In fact, all the girly crap they have out there these days kinda nauseates me.. I can enjoy some of it but man, it's just sickly sweet overload! You know they're now making a freakin' throne for a toy?

(barbie/mattel makes it, go fig!) - What the hell are we trying to tell our daughters I wonder? It's gonna be a sad day for her when she gets her first highschool job slapping together club subs at Subway and taking out the trash before getting off shift @ 9:00pm..

Anyway, back to the baby (sheesh, I think I'm more scatterbrained this pregnancy than ever before) - It's week 18 and by this time the other two were working the bongo drums in my womb.. This behbeh kicks but no where as often.. I'm hoping this'll be my calm baby.. Drake has his bursts of energy throughout the day and Tatum is just non-stop.. It'd be great to have a mellow kid around to even things out..

Other than that, I'm putting the finishing touches on my registry.. I think all I need to do is find out the gender to put a few other specific things on there but on the whole this baby isn't going to need much.. I'm determined not to have a ton of baby crap and to get things that are slim-lined and/or multi-use.. With the logistics of traveling and carting around three children looming, I have to be on my game and not bogged down by gear..

Today, I did make my first baby-thing purchase though. I know I'm going to need a new playard.. My old one is still functional but it's kind of bulky and just a plain ol playard.. I wanted a newer smaller one with a bassinet so I can keep it bedside the first few months til baby can sleep through the night.. SO, I bought the one I had picked out on my registry.. Well, actually I picked a nice cherry color but that was out of stock - but they had the same model in an Aqua color and it was $33 dollars off so I snatched that one up, better belive!

I think I'm really going to like it.. Another plus is that it's getting shipped directly to my APO address.. I didn't have to go through my shipitAPO address (which always ends up costing twice the shipping price but in most cases is STILL cheaper than buying baby crap over here! I don't know why baby stuff is so expensive over here but if it's an American product you best believe you'll be paying out the ass.. F that noise!). I think this Aqua one will actually go a lot better with the nursery theme I have in mind (which I will reveal after my ultrasound.. I just have to settle on a fabric choice).

I did had a bassinet for D & T but I pretty much gave ALL my baby gear away to the salvation army.. I really didn't plan on having another kid for another 5 years at least and by then they would have came out with all kinds of cool new baby shizz.. All I have left is some special/expensive clothes I love, my bath sling, my baby carrier sling and my boppy pillow.. Other than that, I'm starting fresh..

Next I'm going to go ahead and get my Joovy Caboose Ultralight Double Stroller

- which I know will have to go through SIAPO but at least it's an Amazon Prime item and the initial shipping will be free. (Btw, internet shoppers, I highly suggest getting an Amazon Prime membership.. It's only $75 for the whole year and you're able to get a lot of items shipped free *if it says "prime" on the product page* OR/& you can get a lot of items upgraded to two day shipping for free.. It's been a life saver for me, an admitted Amazonaholic). I'm also going to get my crib, which will be a bit expensive to ship but A.) it STILL won't be as expensive as the cribs over here adn B.) the cribs over here suck! They're not height adjustable and sit so high, once baby is able to pull themselves up they'll be falling out of it in no time! I'd rather get a simple convertible crib that I can use for early toddler years.. Then when they get a little older and develop some taste they can pick out their own big people bed..

Anyway, that's my deal the past few days.. Just been wrapped up with the whats and hows.. Now, I'm going to go have a spoonful of frosting and enjoy the last hour of naptime before I have to take the kids outside to play and do crafts.. I think it's a sidewalk chalk/play-doh kinda day.. Toodles!

Heath Ledger & Misguided Christians

2008-01-25T11:43:00.000+03:00

Heath Ledger and Misguided Christians  Current mood: disappointed  Category: Religion and Philosophy

I've been keeping up with the news lately (for a change – I'm a very sporadic news watcher) and I have been following the Heath Ledger story as I'm sure some of you have.. He was a great actor of our time and his presence will be missed.. It's always shocking when someone goes right at their prime.. It's a sad topic but I think what's even more saddening is all the press that certain religious groups are getting for "boycotting" his upcoming funeral and all making their own dissertations on whether this guy is on his way to hell or not.. [all this being sparked because of the fact that he played a homosexual in a very popular film - in case you're wondering wth I'm talking about.. I'm pretty sure everyone knows though!]  I really hate it when things like this come out and start to happen.. As a Christian, it deeply disturbs and angers me that these people like to say they're speaking on behalf of all of us.. All organizations have their small cells of "loonies" and unfortch, they're usually the ones that make the headlines.. Christians have'em, Muslims definitely have'em.. Heck, even PETA has'em..   But what is most maddening to me, is that from a Christian standpoint – these few radicals are completely in the wrong.. Not only is their behavior appalling from a modernistic societies POV - It is the complete OPPOSITE of the Christian way to judge others.. (Let He who is without sin cast the first stone.. Judge Not Lest Ye Be Judged.. any of this a'ringin' a bell?!? )   - It isn't up to us to say whether or not someone is going to hell or heaven.. That isn't our job, and none of us are anywhere NEAR being that infallible to make such a decision. This is why we believe in God people! And I don't know about you, but my God is a merciful one.. he doesn't hate homosexuals.. It's a complex subject in that department to be sure but I truly believe he loves us all..  There's all these people who want to control and govern the way others live but the only life you can truly run is your own.. And I think that's just what we should stick to.. It's part of our unique human nature to judge but it should at the very least be kept to ourselves.. They forget that there are people who loved this man and are grieving for him.. Being spiteful and hateful at such a fragile moment just destroys the good reputation that I think most Christians deserve.. It's not fair and I wish that people didn't associate something so unloving and cruel with something that I hold dear in my life.. I know peoples preconceived notions about Christians – I used to be a skeptic.. I can tell you it isn't good.. Alls I can do about that is march on and keep living my life as a decent, compassionate human being.. I don't preach but golly, if anyone ever wants to talk I'm all ears and mouth.. RIP Heath Ledger.. I hope you now have the solace you couldn't seem to find in this life..

I Wish We Could Keep Our Kid Heart..

2008-01-21T11:42:00.000+03:00

I Wish We Could Keep Our Kid Heart..  Current mood: contemplative  Category: Life

Something this morning made me want to cry.. it could have been part hormones but more than that I think it was that ever confusing jumble of sadness AND happiness that someone can feel @ the same time..   First a little backdrop. Yet again, over here in Kuwait, there is a fucked up way how things work.. I've mentioned before that all of the manual laborers here are TCN's (3rd Country Nationals – Indians, Bangladeshis, Pakistanis and the like..). Every morning you see these men, in their little yellow jumpsuits, bundled up in threadbare scarves and gothbas, sweeping up sand and trash from the curbsides of busy roads.. My attitude towards them is akin to my attitude towards homeless.. Regrettably sympathetic.. But unlike (most) homeless, I respect them because they have jobs and are doing their part to support their families.. They brave the harsh desert elements and sometimes barbaric treatment for what amounts to pittance to you and me.. I respect them, but I can't bring myself to look them in their eyes.. Part of it is not wanting to make them feel ashamed about what they're doing or who they are.. Part of it is the large spectrum I see between me and them.. Why should I be so lucky to have been born where I was? The most any of us do usually is hand over a couple hundred fils so that they might have a decent snack during their strenuous day.. As soon as you drive off though, how amazing it is how quickly you forget that moment.. What's even more sad is that some of us have such an air of self-importance about us.. I see some assholes throw shit out of their car right in front of these guys..   I'm sure I'm completely wrong in assuming this is what goes through EVERYONE's mind when they encounter the impoverished.. Especially in this place where its an everyday occurrence and they're so easily brushed aside.. Worse yet, I can't truthfully say that I think about the welfare of these people nearly as often as I come into contact with them.. It's easy to get wrapped up in this place, meaning, wrapped up in yourself..   But this morning, as I was driving Tatum to school – there was one of these men right near our car, doing his job, sweeping the road.. This is something Tatum does often but today I actually watched her and took it all in.. No matter who it may be – be they American soldiers she sees @ Camp Arifjan, a random Kuwaiti stopped @ a red light, a Filipino waiter, or a TCN worker on the side of the street – She musters up the cutest smile and waves incessantly, shouting, "Hi! Hello! Hi!" - until she gets some kind of response.. Usually she gets a smile and a wave back.. Then as we pull away she softly yet cheerfully says, "Bye! Buh byes!"  What I wouldn't give to go back to a time when I saw everyone as true equals.. EVERYONE deserves a morning smile.. No matter what corner of the world they hail from.. No matter what they look like.. No matter what they do for a living.. No matter how much money is in their pocket.. If we all had our kid hearts again.. The world would be what it should..

Just A Blueberry Day..

2008-01-21T11:40:00.000+03:00

Just a Blueberry Day..  Current mood: blah  Category: Blogging

First of all – today I broke the cardinal rule of grocery shopping.. I went hungry.. All I had this morning was coffee so, it was totally my fault.. I was just in a time crunch today because I actually, for the first time in awhile, got the kids ready for school completely by myself..  (Usually how it goes is I pick out the kids clothes, Teresa (my maid) changes the kids/puts on their socks&shoes/combs their hair/and gives them their morning cup of milk – While she does this I usually pack their breakfasts and lunches for the day and do my makeup.. and sometime in between I put them on the potty and brush their teeth)   Ever since getting back from vacation though Tatum has been throwing the biggest shit fits in the morning because she doesn't want Teresa coming anywhere near her.. And Drake, sadly, has never really liked Teresa much to begin with.. (I have no idea why, she's such a nice soft-spoken lady – never loud or rough with the kids.. In fact, she tears up when we discipline them in front of her). So to skip out on morning scream fests I think I'll do all the changing and do what I can to prepare the night beforehand..  Well that went WAY off topic! Oh well, got it off my chest.. It's something that's been bugging me lately.. I hate hearing a toddler scream their head off first thing in the morning..   SO – I was hungry @ the Sultan Center.. And maybe it was a subconscious craving (I sure wasn't cognicent of it @ the time) but as I was driving home I realized the crazy amount of blueberry shit I had just bought.. And go fig, I bought everything BUT real blueberries.. A ½ pint of fresh blueberries here is an astronomical $15+ - F*CK that! But anyway.. I got blueberry cobbler coffee creamer, blueberry muffin mix, a blueberry jelly filled doughnut, a low fat Otis spunkmier blueberry muffin, blueberry pie filling AND a blueberry apricot facial scrub! LOL WTF? Downright bizarre, but I wasn't even thinking about it when I was buying it all.. Honestly I was feeling like utter and complete shit so all I was thinking about was eating my muffin and doughnut on the way home – hahaha!  Okay – so that was my non-sensical blog of the day.. What's yours? :P

I Hate My Pregnant Nose!

2008-01-21T11:35:00.000+03:00

I hate my pregnant nose!  Current mood: irritated  Category: Blogging

I'm currently suffering from that lovely side-symptom of pregnancy called "rhinitis" - I've got the works.. Stuffy nose, broken capillaries (ie; bloody snot), sneezing, congestion.. I'm in desperate need of a humidifier.. I wonder if a cold one will do.. oh well, I'll take what I can get.. Maybe that's why I'm especially lovin' my hot showers these days..  But in addition to that I'm also quite sensitive to smells.. Which you wouldn't figure with such an effed up nose @ present.. I wouldn't say I'm one of those hypersensitive pregnant women.. I don't go vomiting everywhere @ the slightest smell.. I'm usually able to hold my shit down (except for the ONE time I threw up while pregnant with Tatum due to an adverse reaction to a pumpkin room spray I got @ Bath & Body Works.. to this day I hate that smell.. sad..).. Anyway, what I was getting @ is I feel kinda bad for Pedro cause lately here I've been telling him how bad he smells to me.. Lol! I'm always telling him to change his clothes or take a shower or brush his teeth again.. And then still, when he comes to kiss and/or hug on me (which is like, every 15 minutes these days) I have to tell him not to breathe on me..   Lol - and then yesterday when we were going out to eat with the kids we got into the car and I started whining about how it smelled like summer sausage in there.. This kinda sucks! I always thought that pregnant women who bitched about smells were just embellishing! I havent' really had this problem before, save for the bad room spray.. Whatever it is I hope it goes away! I want my old nose back.. This one is like.. burning! /cue the deep bellowy preggy growl

I'll Go Straight Up George Banks on Your Ass!

2008-01-18T00:00:00.000+03:00

I’ll go straight up George Banks on your Ass!  Current mood: pissy  Category: Blogging

(That was a toss out to "Father of the Bride" – If you haven't seen it, DO)

I'm not a mean-spirited person, nor do I go looking to stir up trouble.. But excess hormones can really tip you over the edge @ times.. I don't know why, but it seems as if there's this huge paradox that envelopes this place. For friendly service I'd rate Kuwait a 10, but as far as common sense practices and other small things of seemingly insignificant nature (that you'd expect to not be a problem in most places), I'm afraid they rate pretty damn poorly..

Example: Today after leaving Baroue, me and the kids were tired and thirsty from all the running around they did. There's a nice smoothie shop called D'Lush right adjacent to Baroue so I stopped in there to get us a little slushy treat..

I ordered two drinks, one for me and the other I intended to split between the kids because their "small" is actually a good sized medium.. I asked the cashier if she could split one of the drinks into two small cups and she told me she couldn't. I figured maybe she didn't understand me correctly and I asked her again, "You mean, you can't give me an extra cup? I mean, I'll do it myself..". She says, "No maam, it's against store policy.". I understand an employee not wanting to go against the boss but c'mon – you see I have two small children here and it's just one cup! Use some common sense! Make a judgment call..

I told her that it was a pretty stupid store policy and then she quickly set to work making the drinks. Luckily I had two sippy cups with straws with me. They had some really thick mango juice in them still but I went over to the counter with all the straws and napkins and began cleaning them out.. In this process I used half the napkins and I made very sure to be as obnoxious as I could about it – doing it in plain view of the woman.

She handed over the two drinks and I uncarefully split one between the sippy cups.. After handing those to the kids I used the rest of the napkins to clean up the sundries counter. I turned back to her and told her "If you had just given me the extra cup I wouldn't have had to use all these napkins up.. You see I have two kids here – You could have helped me out.. This is the LAST time I ever come to this shop..". And with that her jaw dropped and the kids and I happily slurped our way to the car..

In retrospect, this seems pretty darn bitchy – maybe even uncalled for but what can I say? Moments like these are few and far between for me but sometimes, something really tiny is all it takes.. I usually try and keep in mind that these people, the civil workers here, get treated like crap by Kuwaitis 24/7 so I don't try and give a hard time when it isn't due.

Something I've noticed though is like, if I'm dealing with a Filipino worker (like today) – they're more by-the-book and less likely to accommodate smaller needs you may have. Every Lebanese waiter/cashier I've ever dealt with has been super nice and flexible.. If I need something done for my kids (ex; get a plain chicken breast instead of the breaded kind on the kids menus – which they can't have), there's no argument - (btw, Lebanese people seem CRAZY about kids – the kids constantly get freebies and sweets when we go out to eat and have a Lebanese waiter – Tatum also shamelessly flirts with them).

I realize this probably sounds incredibly racist but it isn't meant to – it's just the facts of life over here.. This also probably sounds pretty weird but most of the "social" civil workers (ie; foodservice & retail) are either Lebanese or Filipino.. I don't know why, it's just how it is. I also think that Lebanese folks get paid considerably more than the rest because they're actually Arabs.. Every one else gets paid pretty poorly.. (I think "minimum wage" here is 50KD = $185.. A *month*)

The manual labor force is primarily made up of Indians, Pakistanis, Egyptians, Bangladeshi and Sri Lankans.. Of course there are exceptions to every generalization and I'm not saying EVERY Indian or Filipinos is a poor and/or undereducated worker.. I have friends of all these nationalities and I can tell you there are intelligent successful people from all heritages/corners of the world.. But still, in Kuwait, if you aren't Arab or Western you're pretty much treated like a third-class citizen.. It's pretty darn depressing..

Anyway, well, that went off on a tangent but I guess I just wanted to explain a little bit how the system works over here.. I really do try and keep my temper under wraps by remembering how incredibly hard some of these people have it.. @ the same time I also expect discretion depending on the circumstance and a little common sense.. If I was at home I wouldn't put up with the same crap but at the time it'd be worth my while to speak my mind there because I know that someone who's trying to sell something will do everything in their power to keep a good customer spending money..

Oh well. I guess it's just that sense of "wrong" and "right" that I really miss and that's what sparks my rants.. We've got it pretty good @ home.. I just hope everyone realizes that.. In closing, pray for the next person that pisses me off.. I don't see an end to my sporadic grouchiness anytime soon..

Take A Look @ How We'll Be Making or Breaking Our Next Kid

2008-01-16T00:00:00.001+03:00

Take a look @ how we’ll be making or breaking the next kid..  Current mood: full  Category: Life

I'm in my 5th month of pregnancy now - yays! I was thinking about it the other night, "When do you consider yourself to be in this month or that month?" - For me, being past the 16 week mark is the same as having been pregnant for 4 months so now I'm onto the 17th I'm just gonna go ahead and say 5.. it makes meh feel better! :P Sadly, I ain't nowhere near being even 50% done making this kid.. Late pregnancy takes FOREVER!  Aaanyways - I get my next ultrasound (the big name determining one) in less than 3 weeks so I felt it was probably about time for me to reveal our narrowed down list of boy and girl names before I have to completely forget about the other set that will never be.. Of course none of this is set in stone but I've had these names in my head for quite sometime now.. I haven't ever looked through baby name books so there may potentially be something that catches my fancy in the future but for the time being - here goes  For Girls We Like:  * Storry - (I like Storriña but Pedro likes the shortened version I came up with better.. I've had this name for YEARS) - This is our main consideration  * Scarlette  * Vyvian - (Vyv Vazquez may sound/look a little wierd tho)  * Briella - (this is my like only - Pedro hates it so it's not really up for consideration but I've been hangin' onto it for sometime..)  ~ And our "standby" middle name for girls is "Mayree" - again, all my doing.. Pedro tolerates it tho :)  And For Boys We Like:  * Havenin - (Again, Pedro only likes my shortened version of "Haven" - He didn't like much that backwards it spelled "Ninevah". This is a stong choice for our boy name but it's also androgynous enough to be used for a girl..)  * Remington - (In spite of ourselves we LOVE this name.. My grandmother loves it too cause it reminds her of "remington steel" - His nickname of course would be Remy.. Mmm, booze and firearms.. He'd love us! xD)   * Talon - just always liked it.. even before fucking Laguna Beach!  * Hunter - (Pedro and my Mother have always liked this one and I did too but I've lost my gravity towards it.. I wouldn't mind the shorter "Hunt")  ~ And our "standby" middle name for boys is "Elijah" - Not my first pick but Pedro is adamant about it.. He likes it for a first name better but it's too ordinary for me.. Besides, his cousin already has a son with a similar name that they call "Eli" so.. meh..   Well there they are.. Love'em or leave'em.. I'm hoping that once I see they're little bum I'll have an epiphany and the right name will come blazing to the front of my mind.. We'll see..  In the meantime folks, stay cool.. Not hard to do right now is it? :)

Initiate Retroactive Blogs (aka Drake's Penis is Gonna Be OK)

2008-01-15T00:00:00.000+03:00

I've been pretty lazy about relaying my blogs from my other site to this one.. I want to make this blog my more frequently posted one so I'm going through all the old ones and posting them retroactively so I hope it's not too confusing.. Here goes..

Drake’s Penis is gonna be OK
Current mood: sleepy
Category: Life

I didn't forwarn anyone cause I didn't want to cause any worry but Drake went into surgery this morning to have a smegalen cyst removed from his penis.. Yes that sounds completely weird and semi-made up but the other night Pedro and I noticed, while giving the kids a bath, that underneath Drake's penis was a small glob of white stuff under the skin. We thought it might me an infection so we took him in the next morning. The consulting pediatric surgeon told us that sometimes in the case of little boys who aren't circumcised, a buildup of sebum can collect under the foreskin that isn't yet retractable. (Sebum is a natural secretion all bodies make to lubricate sensitive skin, it mainly consists of fats and other cellular materials).

He said it isn't likely to be causing him any discomfort but if not removed it could continue to buildup and cause an infection in the process. He said for such a sensitive removal he'd have to go under general anesthesia so that meant I'd have to bring him in the next morning before he'd eaten or drunk anything.

Poor baby got his blood drawn, two shots and an IV.. He was also NOT a happy camper about wearing the hospital gown.. He fussed alot but that's kind of normal for him.. He's extremely weary of hospitals and doctors after more than his share of ER visits.. We had to stay pretty much all day there and wait for him to pass urine, which must have been pretty painful for him but he did it and has been doing so successfully all night.. His peepee is a little swollen but otherwise looks just the same.. I don't have it in me to pull back the skin to see more clearly.. We'll wait a week or so on that. You can also see the marks where they did the local anesthetic /shudder.. Poor little guy. He's a trooper though and back in good spirits.. I think he's well enough to send back to school tomorrow so we'll see how that goes.. I can always pick him up early..

Anyway, I hope all my parental compatriots who have uncircumcised sons keep that weather eye out and don't have to deal with messes like this.. They [incidences as such] are kind of unusual.. Foreskin is afterall, a natural occurance. I opted out of the slice and dice for many good reasons (I feel) and have had to field my share of doubts on it by many another mother. The way I see it is, if we're not circumcising our daughters (which would be horrendous) why should we do our sons the disservice? Oh well, neither here nor there but I hope all your sons, snipped or not - are healthy and remain so..

What is Southern?

2008-01-11T10:00:00.000+03:00

Praise the Lard -- Edna Lewis, the 'Southern Julia Childs'

In the latest issue of Gourmet magazine, I read an unpublished essay by reknown chef, cookbook author and food writer - Edna Lewis. Forwarding this essay was a mini biography of her written by Gourmet editor Ruth Riechl and she sounds like a pretty amazing woman. A poor black southern girl who left her home @ age 16 to become one of the most influential southern chefs - successfully based @ Cafe Nicholson in Manhattan, New York. She rubbed elbows with the likes of Truman Capote and Marlon Brando. She also went up against three michelin star french chefs and made more of an impression than any of their hautiness could begin to imprint. Reading her essay was very comforting and inspiring.. Like drinking a tall glass of iced peach tea on a sundrenched porch in the springtime.. She exudes such great charisma for her food and her past.. She's very consumed with passing down southern food heritage to younger generations--to let them know and keep them reminded of what our nation's first cuisine encompassed. I'm not from the south but I've spent most of my life there and will always call it home so long as I live.. I had a pretty full childhood growing up in Hawaii but if I could change one thing about it, I'd wish that my Mom was a passionate southern cook just like Ms. Lewis.

Anyway, I thought I'd dictate that article and pass it on. I'm keen to learn more about this Edna Lewis. I've read some of the recipes that she speaks of in her essay and can't wait to try some of them.. The yeast rolls sound out of this world - I'll post the recipe a little later. In the meantime, if you're hankerin' for a feeling of "home" take some time out to read.. If you don't nod your head in agreement @ least once I really feel for ya..

What is Southern?
Edna Lewis

How did southern food come into being? The early cooking of southern food was primarily done by blacks, men and women. In the home, in hotels, in boarding houses, on boats, on trains, and at the White House. Cooking is hard and demanding. It was then and it still is now. What began as hard work became creative work. There is something about the South that stimulates creativity in people, be they black or white writers, artists, cooks, builders, or primitives that pass away without knowing they were talented. It is also interesting to note that the South developed the only cuisine in this country. Living in a rural setting is inspiring: Birds, the quiet, flowers, trees, gardens, fields, music, love, sunshine, rain, and the smells of the earth all play a part in the world of creativity. It has nothing to do with reading or writing. Many of those cooks could not read or write.

I grew up among people who worked together, traded seed, borrowed setting hens if their own were late setting. Early hatched chickens were like a prize. Neighbors would compete to see who would serve the first spring chickens pan-sautéed. The first spring greens, lettuce, scallions in a vinegar dressing with salt, pepper and sugar – no oil. They shared favors of all kinds, joined in when it came to planting or harvesting a crop, wheat threshing, hog butchering, and cutting ice on the ponds to store for the summer in the community icehouse.

I grew up noting the food feasts, picnics, and church revival dinners with long white tablecloths. Families put out warm fried chicken, braised leg of mutton, think slices of boiled Virginia ham. Green beans cooked in pork stock, beets in a vinaigrette sauce. English peas in cream. Baked tomatoes with crusty squares of bread on top. Fragrant corn pudding. Potato salad with a boiled dressing. Watermelon and cantaloupe pickles and relishes, preserves and jellies, and iced tea.

Southern is an early spring morning shrouded in a thick mist. The warmth of a bright sunrise reveals shimmering jewel like dewdrops upon thicket and fence. A large spider web glistens, a spider trying desperately to wind its prey into the web. My father set out to prepare for planting corn. The first day, I walked behind him while he was plowing and singing one of his favorite hymns. For me, it was a great moment. Walking along, pressing my bare feet against the warm plowed earth. All of the chickens were behind me, picking up the earthworms and bugs. He turned up roots of sassafras bushes, which we took to the house for the next morning.

Southern is a spring breakfast of herring with its roe. It is the most delicious of the first-caught of spring. Shad is more advertised. They both are spring fish, then they disappear until the next spring. Herring row is of a finer quality than the shad and wonderful sautéed in garlic, lemon juice, butter and herbs.

Southern is a meal of early spring wild greens—poke sallet before it is fully uncurled, wild mustard, dandelion, lamb’s quarter, purslane, and wild watercress. These are greens that are looked for as the first taste of spring, boiled in pork stock and served with cornmeal dumplings. The next delightful green vegetable is wild asparagus, delicious and tender, found around fence posts where birds drop the seed. They are picked at the right time, steamed and served on toast, with a rich cream sauce spooned over. Southern is a midday dinner or potted squab, tossed until done in a covered iron pot. Served with those first wild greens, a casserole of white potatoes baked in a chicken stock, and a delicious strawberry shortcake of biscuit dough.

Southern is an evening of turtle soup. We would find the turtle, having been washed out of the stream in a thunderstorm, crawling towards the house, so we would pick it up, keep it for a few days, then clean and cut it up. There would be great excitement if it contained eggs, which we would add to the stew. After cooking the turtle slowly for hours, we would strain the broth, season it well, add good Sherry, chop up some of the meat, and make dumplings to add to the soup with the eggs.

Southern is a guinea hen, a bird of African origin. They live in trees around the house and make a big noise if strangers come around. Like any game bird, they have to be aged before cooking. They have a delicious flavor and are best when cooked in a clay pot with butter, herbs, onions and mushrooms.

Southern is Bessie Smith. Give me a pig foot and a bottle of beer. Southern is a great yeast roll, the dough put down overnight to rise and the next morning shaped into rolls and baked. Served hot from the oven, they are light as a dandelion in a high wind. Southern is a sun dog—something like a rainbow, or the man in the moon—on a late summer afternoon.

Southern is a mint julep. A goblet of crushed ice with a sprig of mint tucked in the side of the glass, a plain sugar syrup the consistency of kerosene poured over the ice, then a jigger of bourbon. Stir and bruise the mint with a silver spoon. Sip and enjoy. Southern is a hot summer day that brings on a violent thunderstorm, cooling the air and bringing up smells of the earth that tempt us to eat the soil. Southern is a springhouse filled with perishables kept cool by a stream running through. And a spring keeper—a salamander—is there, watching over.

Southern is Bourbon St. and Louis Armstrong. Southern is seafood gumbo of crab, okra, tomatoes, scallions, onions, green pepper, bacon, garlic, and herbs. Southern is fresh made corn fritters, light and crisp enough to fly away. Southern is an okra pancake in a cornmeal batter. Southern is a platter of deviled crabs prepared with soaked slices of white bread torn and mixed with chopped onion, fine-cut scallions, melted butter, fresh-ground black pepper, cayenne, eggs and the best crabmeat. Baked in the over, served hot, a morsel to die over. Southern is a pitcher of lemonade, filled with slices of lemon and a big piece of ice from the icehouse, and served with buttermilk cookies. Southern is a delicious chicken salad at a bride’s luncheon.

Southern is a bowl of shrimp paste, rich in butter, shrimp, Sherry, spices and lemon juice. Blended to a soft consistency and served over a plate of grits, a delicious breakfast treat. Southern is a barbequed pig that was cooked for hours and served with a tomato or vinegar-based sauce, as well as coleslaw, potato salad, baked beans, hush puppies, and iced tea. Southern is a bowl of homemade peach ice cream, served during the peach season. Southern is an oyster roast. Guests are presented with white gloves for shucking and pots of melted butter. Southern is leftover pieces of boiled ham trimmed and added to a saucepan of heavy cream set on the back of the stove to mull and bring out the ham flavor, then served spooned over hot biscuits, with poached eggs on the side.

Southern is hunting season, a time that men take off to hunt rabbits, squirrel, opossum, deer, quail, partridge, plover and dove. We used to trap snowbirds and enjoy a pan of them baked. Southern is a Brunswick Stew of squirrel or rabbit (or chicken), beans, corn, tomatoes, onions, herbs, fresh-ground black pepper, and salt. Long cooking results in a great stew. Southern is a wild pig served with pork liver sauce, peanut sauce, rice for spooning the sauces over, and spicy sauces for the sliced pork.

Southern is a country steak smothered in onions on a Sunday morning, with gravy and spoon bread to spoon the gravy over. Southern is she-crab soup, thick with crab eggs and crabmeat, served with benne biscuits. Southern is a lemon-flavored pound cake served with brandied peaches and homemade blackberry wine.

Southern is a moss rose, a camellia, a buttercup, a tea olive tree sending its fragrance through the air and into the kitchen. Southern is the call of the whip-poor-will at midnight. Southern is a pot of boiling coffee sending its aroma out to greet you on your way in from the barn. Coffee was always served piping hot, so much so that if someone talked too much, they were told, “save your breath to cool your coffee.”

Southern is a walk along the streams in September to find out if the fox grapes were ripening. The aroma they send out is a sign of where they are. Southern is weeks of canning, pickling, and preserving—cucumber pickle, artichoke pickle, pear pickle, tomato pickle, watermelon on rind pickle, citron preserves, green tomato preserves, fig preserves, cherry preserves, grape conserve, crab apple jelly, wild blackberry jelly, fox grape jelly, quince jelly, guava jelly, wild plum jelly, wild strawberry preserves (the best).

Southern is Christmas, a wonderful time of the winter. In the early history of the South, there was no Christmas tree. Beautiful flowers such as Camellias were used in Charleston. And it was a German professor—a refugee—who, while boarding with a family in Williamsburg, brought them stories of Christmas decorations in his native Germany.

Our house was decorated with running cedar branches with juniper berries. Red tissue-paper bells were hung throughout the house, lending a festive air. ON the sideboard were the Christmas foods such as fruitcake, homemade candies—divinity, peanut brittle, and ribbon squares—nuts, oranges, and coconut made into confections.

Christmas was ushered in before daylight with the thunderous noise of Roman Candles—our father waking the community from its sleep. Southern is a delicious oyster stew or sautéed oysters, cream, Sherry, salt, cayenne, fresh-ground black pepper, salsify, a spoon of butter in the bottom of the bowl and a garnish of chervil. Southern is a hoppin’ John black-eyed peas cooking in a hogs-head stock—served with a dish of greens on New Years. This is to bring good luck in the new year to come. Southern is Martin Luther King Jr., with a dream.

Southern is beautiful dish of fried chicken, cooked carefully in home-rendered lard and butter with pieces of country ham added, then served with brown gravy spooned over spoon bread. Southern is desserts galore—coconut cake, caramel layer cake, black walnut whisky cake, groom’s wedding cake, fig pudding, mincemeat pie, lemon meringue pie, fried apple pies, damson plum pie, rhubarb pie with orange zest, peach cobbler, blackberry cobbler, blackberry roly-poly with a blackberry sauce.

Southern is all the unsung heroes who passed away in obscurity. So many great souls have passed off the scene. The world has changed. We are now faced with picking up the pieces and trying to put them into shape, document them so the present day young generation can see what southern food was like. The foundation on which it rested was pure ingredients, open-pollinated seed—planted and replanted for generations—natural fertilizers. We grew the seeds of what we ate; we worked with love and care.

Shhhhhh!!

2008-01-06T11:12:00.000+03:00

Had my 4 month Prenatal appointment this morning and it went pretty well.. I had to wait over an hour to be seen and I thought I was going to lose it and freak out in the waiting room but I got over it immediately once they called out my name.. These hormones are really freakin' strong this pregnancy!

Anyway, everything went real normal. Gaining weight kind of quickly but that can always be remedied later. Pedro came with me on this one though so I was excited for him to watch in on the ultrasound..

Pretty much the whole time I was getting scanned I had the giggles.. I really had to try hard to compose myself so the doctor could get measurements.. She tried detecting the sex but it's still a little unclear. When I go in on the 3rd next month we should know for sure.. Still feeling boy!

But the ultrasound experience was precious.. Lots of bones! It's a skinny little thing still yet.. They're not cramped in there either as I saw the legs being extended out. I don't think baby liked being poked around so much - After a minute or so of poking it raised it's hands up to cover it's ears quickly (as if to protect itself or say, "ENOUGH!").. Poor bebuh! He just wants to be left alones.. lol

I'm also experiencing a new sensation that I didn't have before with my other pregnancies.. I absolutely hate loud noises. They make me sick.. Whenever the dog barks, or the kids squeal.. Or even when me and Pedro are both in the office doing our own thing and he moves around in his chair too quickly.. It startles me and I get nauseous right away.. Not really liking this part.. Makes me feel like Mrs. Bennet from Pride and Prejudice with her bad nerves..

Anyway, in another month I can finally start narrowing down the name list.. Got 2 or 3 floating around for a boy but I'll wait to unveil those.. Tata!

Carlease is a Real Name

2008-01-05T21:03:00.000+03:00

Phew! After about 3 months of driving Pedro to work and back we finally got around to getting him a car.. I was a little weary about just going ahead and buying a whole 'nother car to maintain and worry about.. And since we got rid of the Aztek during our trip back home we figured we wouldn't miss the money much if we just leased a car.. Leases are always more expense than what they're worth but A.) We don't have to worry about a used potentially-wrecked-in-the-past lemon breaking down on us and being in the same sharing the car situation and B.) I get to sleep in another hour AND have dinner back on the table at the proper time..

We went to Autolease to initially see about getting a little Mazda 3.. Just something to get him to and from work - nothing fancy. The kids won't be riding in it and I certainly won't have a need to drive it ever so it's all a commute vehicle.. Anyway, when we get there we're told they're fresh out of Mazdas and that we could take a Peugeot for 170KD a month.. Politely but very firmly Pedro told them he wouldn't be paying that - that we had a friend come in and get a mazda 3 for 110 a month. The man asked if she was a teacher (she is) and said that that was the special teacher price they were only doing during the summer.. When we told him she got it just last week he was surprised and when Pedro asked him why teachers get such deep discounts and the rest of us have to pay outrageously he kind of just blinked back at us.. Needless to say, 30 seconds later we got the 110 deal.. So we felt kinda peppy about that..

And the deciding factor in Pedro taking a "french" car was that he actually checked the chassis upon signing the paperwork and discovered it's really a GM Aveo chassis with a Peugeot body.. He felt better about it being an American-backed product (about 70% of a GM Aveo is made "elsewhere" but its still got that GM name on it so.. that's something).

Anywho, it was a surprisingly painless process and we were out of there in about 45 minutes.. We are back to being a two car household and all is well.. I'm still getting the satisfaction of calling Pedro a "traitor to America" /cue the giggles

Here's what a Peugeot 307 looks like (with a bit of a body kit on it) - It's kind of shrimpy but not the smallest model.. I don't think I could have made him drive a clown car with a clear conscience.. *Dar dar duh nuh nuh nuh dar dar dar dar*

** Side note - I just got done watching the show "The Closer" this evening (such a GREAT show!) and was watching the credits roll when I saw that one of the guest stars names was "Carlease" LOL.. I hope my judgement isn't THAT impared when I go to sign the birth certificate..

Creature Wonders

2008-01-05T16:17:00.000+03:00

Just a quick blurp. We took the kids to the Scientific Center today.. Something we do from time to time. They have an exceptional aquarium there.. Not particularly extensive but lovely nonetheless.. As we made our way through the dark corridors and soothing displays we came to the real gem of the aquarium - The floor to ceiling tank with the bagillion gallons of water and large marine fish. I've always loved watching the aquatic life skim around so serenly in this particular exhibit.. But what I think I realized today is that I have a new favorite animal - the stingray

I've been to this place before and have always been impressed by their beauty but I finally forced the kids to sit down and look for a good while instead of making a hasty exit. I was mesmerized. They were so tranquil - like underwater butterflies..

They have a few different species in there but the one that caught my eye the most was the "Honeycomb Ray". I've always called it a "Leopard Ray" until now because it's markings are seriously identical to those of those magestic cats we all know as Leopards.. Upon searching for images of them I found out that stingrays aren't the only ones that can be found with these markings.. Eels and a few different kinds of fish have similar patterns..
I just think it's so beguiling that such a beautiful (and previously thought, unique) look can be had by two such diverse creatures..

So Far From Home - Nowhere to Roam

2008-01-05T15:29:00.000+03:00

I'm usually a pseudo-happy person.. (whatever that means, interpret as you like - I consider it apathetic but with a smile on my face) - All the while I still think of myself as an optimist, but I just don't know what's been going on with me lately.. I like to do myself the honour of considering myself a strong person. I'm a first born child so I've always had a lot of responsibility and have always been mostly self-sufficient. I'm not one to cede to a bad situation. I'm a resolver. Suck it up, march on, get to where you need to be going - done deal. I value resiliency in a person..

I'm not saying I don't ever cry. That I don't ever resent. That I don't ever worry. But I don't usually give into depression.. Maybe it's all this surplus estrogen floating around in my system, but I'm really bummed out.. Pretty much ever since setting foot back in Kuwait.. My attitude towards this place is 'it's comfortable enough..'. It ain't home but it's where I need to be right now. I'm not sure I've ever had a longing stronger than my desire to be home, in America. It's pretty poor thinking to start with when you know that you're going to be in a foreign place for a semi-determined amount of time. My friend Jules probably said it best when she told me, "Until you embrace Kuwait, you're going to be hating life..". She's totally right but.. it's just a hard pill to swallow.. To sincerely say I like the place. For me, it's tolerable and that's just my slice..

Maybe it's getting better though. I think I may have gotten over the 'Wanting to Bellow w/Much Tear-shed' phase.. I seriously couldn't hold my shit together even while grocery shopping.. I had to run to the loo and sob for a bit. I can't begin to express how deeply sad I am @ this moment in time.. I'm downright cheerless.. I've been faking it to get by because well, that's my backup but.. I have no solution to make it better. And I highly doubt they make a 'Preggy Prozac'.. In the meantime all I can do is breathe.. Lord help me and Breathe....

The Baby Gear Basics

2008-01-01T09:10:00.000+03:00

This started out as me just looking around to make a registry for myself.. I figured it’d be much easier this time around because by the third kid you pretty much know what’s essential and what’s superfluous.. But then I got to thinking about a few of my friends who are either preggers with their first baby or are looking to start a family soon.. So I thought I’d compile a list not only for the busy Mommy of three on the go but also for the first timers.. There’s a bunch of crap that stores are going to bombard you with but I’m here to tell you, you won’t REALLY need but 50-60% of that schtuff.. This list may seem a little long but don’t freak out - it’s only cause I’m giving you a little bit of choice and showing you what’s out there.. So if you’re up to it, here goes..

Logistics & Travel:

Depending on how mobile you are, you may need only a few of these things.. But if you’re like me and you plan on doing long distance trips, maybe even plane rides – here’s some useful gear..

Strollers ~ If you’re a first time mommy then I strongly suggest to you that you forget about those cute little “travel sets” that Graco and the like make.. Baby will grow out of those within 6 months time and you’ll end up looking for another stroller AND car seat, thus spending more dough. I’m the kind of gal that likes to get more for my buck so I buy things that are convertible or that can handle heavier children.

Universal Car Seat Carrier:

This can only accommodate those detachable car seats, not convertible ones that I prefer.. The upside to this is that if baby is sleeping you won’t wake them up, you can just slip their car seat onto this and go. The downside is that, like I said, babies tend to outgrow these seats quickly. But there are a few car seats that will get you a good 9 months use out of (see Car seats #)

Umbrella Stroller:

This is a Maclaren Volo (what I have) and I absolutely love it.. It’s such a smooth ride AND has storage underneath. It’s a bit pricey for an umbrella stroller ($100) but you can get a good quality umbrella for less than half that amount.. Umbrella strollers are fantastic because they’re compact and lightweight (which will matter when you have to schlep around a toddler!) My only suggestion, get one that has a canopy shade over it.. It’s useful to keep sun off baby AND you can throw a light jacket over top of it.

Lightweight Strollers:

This is a Combi City Savvy Select. These are sturdier than an umbrella stroller and will serve you best for a small baby when you’re using a convertible car seat. The downside is if baby is sleeping the car seat you’ll have to remove them and put them in this but hey! It’s a baby! They’ll fall back asleep eventually.. These are good for the money and you may not even want to buy an umbrella stroller if you have one of these babies (if you don’t mind the additional weight and bulk). There’s also little headrest inserts you can buy to place in these to make it more snug for newborns (Boppy makes some)

For Mommies of 2 – If you have an older child to tote around I HIGHLY recommend getting you one of these little beauties!

(You can get this from a website www.onestepahead.com)
It’s a double stroller with a standing platform and sit down seat so that your older/bigger child can hitch a ride by standing (fun!) or sitting when they’re tired.. The extra weight and bulk of it IS worth it! I got sooo many compliments on mine when I had it. My last one got stolen I think so I’m getting this one so I can cart around Tatum too

Joovy Caboose Double Stroller

And since cool strollers such as these sometimes come sans cup holders you’ll want to get something like this

Stroller Pack from onestepahead

Car Seats ~ As I said, I like convertible car seats the best.. If you’d like to spend a lot of money in this department (such as on a britax) you’d certainly get a very luxe car seat but you really don’t have to.. Example:

This is the Zeus Convertible Car Seat – this baby will hold up to 40lb of kid, newborn to toddler.. This will also run you about $300

This is the Evenflo Tribute Convertible Car Seat – I have something similar to this and will be using it for my next baby as Tatum is getting ready for a booster car seat.. This one is $55 and has good reviews/from a reputable company.. There are little accessories that you can get for these that will boost its comfy points such as a..

Kiddopotamus Snuzzler (buy two for when one is dirty)

&

Prop’O’s Head Support (for an older baby, about +6mo.)

If you’d like to go with the detachable kind of car seat that you can take with you w/o moving baby around, go with something like this Evenflo Discovery

These only accommodate up to 22lbs but if the convenience means more to you go ahead and get it.. Beware of the Graco Snugrides though.. They’re cute but babies usually grow out of them @ lightning speed. I also highly suggest you get covers for your seats in your car, to put under the car seats as babies and toddlers spill A LOT and can mess up a good car PDQ..

(from onestepahead)

Another suggestion – buy a little baby mirror you can attach to the headrest of the seat you have your baby in. You’ll be able to look back @ your schnuckums and know they’re okay (or even when they’re not).. They make mirrors that are fun for baby too! Like..

Fisher Price Deluxe Auto Mirror with Lights

Airport Travel ~ If you plan on traveling through some airports with your spawn you might want to look into these little contraptions

Baby B’Air

You’re basically just strapping your kid to you.. A sling or front carrier would serve the same purpose I’d imagine but this looks like it’d be easier for you to buckle yourself in as well so it might be worth it. Some people like to bring their babies car seats aboard with them but that requires you buy an additional seat. With a baby you’ll be dealing with it the whole time anyway so until they’re age 2, I think buying a seat is a waste and lugging a car seat is too burdensome.. However, if you DO want to lug around that car seat you can get a..

Gogo Kidz Travel Mate

And if you have a big strong husband you can get a Pac Bac (available @ http://www.onestepahead.com/) – I’M sure as hell not wearin’ the thing.. lol!

And if you want to check-in your car seat but want it to stay clean you can get a

Wheel Easy Car Seat Carrier - I have one for my stroller and it’s a lifesaver since it has wheels on it.. I attach mine to whatever large wheeled suitcase I have and cart it around that way..

As far as diaper bags go, I am lovin’ this JJ Cole Logic Diaper Bag

It’s quite slim and isn’t froo froo so your husband won’t mind wearing it.. (it does come in different colors). Despite its size it carries quite a lot.. Besides, when you’re out and about you won’t want to be weighed down by a traditional bulky diaper bag.. If you want something bigger I suggest getting a sling-type bag like this. They’re much easier to carry around.

Urban Sling Diaper Bag

Also if you’re worried about not having everything you need in your bag get an over-the-headrest storage pouch for your car to have extra “whatever’s” on hand.. Get something like the Sunshine Kids Stow’N Go

Slings & Carriers ~ I’m not a big fan of backpack-type carriers so if you want that you’ll have to search around.. However, I do muse about the sling-type carrier.. They may look deceptively complex but they really are easier and more comfy.. Some people think the baby looks squished in these but that’s kind of what they like.. It swaddles and mimics the womb that way.. However, more structured carriers work just as well and are really secure so here’s a couple to look @

Ultimate Baby Wrap Sling (you can use it 5 different ways)

Baby Bjorn Active Baby Carrier (a bit pricey - $100 – but people swear by it)

Hygiene & Health:

Bathing ~ @ bath time I like to keep it short and simple.. I’ve tried a few baby washing techniques and I’ve found using a simple sling in a warm tub works the best. Structured or plastic baby baths seem so uncomfortable (for parent AND baby).. A good sling will keep baby lounging comfortably while you wash and you won’t have to spend half the time holding them up.. Slings also fold up so they slip right under a sink well. I love my Summer Infant Fold Up Bath Sling

Also - to make it more comfortable on Mom & Dad, this Safety 1st Tubside Kneeler can really help ya out

For changing baby after a bath I suggest you have on hand a soft changing pad such as the Basic Comfort Baby Contoured Changing Pad. (You’ll want to get a nice terry cover for these if using for after baths).

Also, after the bath is the best time to cut babies nails when they’re soft and supple. To ease the scariness of this you can get a baby nail clipper with attached magnifying glass like this –

And for diaper duty I like to keep on hand two staples

Desitin (outside of Boudreaux’s Butt Paste this is the best!)

Gerber Roll-on Baby Powder (new and way less messy!)

And for disposing of those little bio-hazard sacks I recommend the Diaper Champ (vs. the Diaper Genie). The Champ uses regular garbage bags and reviewers say it’s less smelly than the Genie.. It also holds more of the icky stuff.

For keeping baby healthy and warding off sickness, I implore you to NOT buy one of those all-inclusive first aid kits. Baby medicine goes stale pretty fast so you’re best off making your own kit and storing it in a Rubbermaid container.. A few items to have that I’d suggest:

* Ear Thermometer (for those, like me, who aren’t a fan of the rectal thermometers.
These are very accurate)
* Soft Tipped Medicine Dispenser
* Nasal Aspirator
* Small band aids, gauze and medical tape
* Baby Aspirin
* Colic Tablets or Drops (for the fussy baby with gas)
* Baby Ambisol (for grumpy babies with gum pain from cutting teeth)
* Small tweezers

Resting:

Sleeping/Crib ~ This is an important area because this is what baby does most.. However with the paranoia of SIDS looming about us I believe it’s best to take the simple approach. You’ll want to get the plushiest cutest bedding set for your baby but the main priority here is safety. Lucky for us in this day and age there are lots of companies that think that way.. I’ll also be talking about convertible stuff because it’s just boss.

Crib: I highly suggest getting a convertible crib. There are a lot of beautiful ones being manufactured as of present. A convertible crib will see you through the toddler years and some even beyond into high school! They don’t have to be expensive either. I’m getting this Graco Lauren 4-in-1 Crib for under $150

Playards: These are useful for sleeping on the go. Whether you’re @ Grandmas or even in a hotel, these are great. I also find them useful for co-sleeping. I personally don’t dig the idea of having my baby in my bed but I do like having them close in a bassinet bedside. A lot of playards come with detachable bassinets (some even vibrate!) for use in the first few months of baby’s life. After they’re too big it’s business as usual and you can use it for naps or just a safe place to keep baby while you’re doing chores or other activities.. I like this Combi Sport Playard in a vibrant Cherry

Breathable Baby Crib Bumper (to use instead of a traditional bumper pad if you’re afraid of the risk of SIDS and yet still want baby to be comfortable if they should roll over)

Sleep Positioner (this is a three in one as it has a slight wedge underneath babies head – if you want to use a real bumper pad this should help but beware, babies are wriggly little things and they can roll out of these

I also suggest some sort of crib toy/and or soother. And if you’re getting a mobile make sure it’s colorful! For Mac freaks like my husband, there’s the icrib – compatible with most MP3 players you can custom make a lullabye playlist for your little dreamer..

Feeding:

I’m not really a breast feeder so I don’t have really any suggestions for you on pumps and accessories on that note but after bottle-feeding two babies, one with extreme colic, I can tell you what works best for that method.

First off, for colicky babies, I cannot say enough about Dr. Brown’s feeding systems..

They’ve got more parts than a traditional bottle but you can just as easily throw them in a special bottle accessory basket and stick them in the dishwasher (OR a microwave sterilizer. Don’t get one that you have to plug in – they just cost too much for the trouble). Additionally, other bottle brands may do this, I don’t know, but I do know that Dr. Brown’s makes Y cut nipples for the older baby that is able to feed on milk mixed with cereal so that’s another plus.

I’ll also tell you that you don’t need to get those stupid bottle warmers or insulated coolers. If you get your baby used to room temperature formula from the get go you’ll be saving yourself a lot of trouble trying to keep the right temperature you’ll baby accept.. (You also won’t have to worry about even burning baby’s mouth). Trying to heat up a bottle under hot tap water in a public restroom while your baby wails till blue in the face is not a position you want to find yourself in.. ALSO, formula mixes a lot better @ room temperature so I suggest you get you one of these..

(formula dispenser by Sassy) They’re pre-measured compartments of powdered formula that you just dunk into a bottle of nursery water. Shake for 30 seconds and presto! You’re baby will be happily slurping away in no time!

For bottle OR breast feeding a Boppy is an absolute MUST! This is a versatile piece of baby equipment that makes feeding more comfy but also serves as a soft place to lay baby- on back or for some tummy time! And they all come with slipcovers in many different prints so you can remove and wash as needed!

High Chair/Booster: I suggest you NOT get a big traditional high chair. They tend to take up a lot of space even when they’re folded up. I much prefer a booster that I can put on a chair and keep @ the family table. Besides, if you really need it while traveling, bringing a booster is just easiest. I like this Fisher Price Healthy Care Booster Seat. But if you want something with a little more pizzazz Fisher Price makes a cute Rainforest themed one with lots of toys attached to the tray..

When starting to feed jar baby food I suggest you invest in either of these gadgets –

The Boon Squirt Feeding Spoon – Ingenious! You just screw off the plastic spoon and fill the orange part with baby food. Screw spoon back on and you’ve got a one handed feeding session while the other hand wipes up whatever messes baby is dishing out..

The Jar Holder (onestepahead)– You won’t have to worry about a frenzied baby knocking a glass jar of baby food out of your hand or off the feeding tray. Also makes one handed feeding easy! I also suggest getting bowls and plates that suction to the tray for this same purpose when baby begins to feed themselves.

This is a Munchkin Fresh Food Feeder – great for giving baby fresh fruits and veggies to knaw on without worrying about choking hazards.. Throw a slice of peach in there and watch them monch away

And this is the Crunch’N’Sip – Looks pretty self explanatory & you know me, I love to get two purposes out of one product!

Playtime:

When getting your baby those big ticket items such as exersaucers and the like, I suggest getting no more than 3 or 4 of these items.. Odds are your baby won’t even like one or two of them! And look around for toys that, like I say, you can get the most life out of.. Newborn to Toddler toys are always big on me.. Also keep an eye out for weight restrictions. If something says up to 30lbs that sounds like a keeper to me! Keep comfort in mind but also remember that baby responds more to strong, striking and contrasting colors.. So while that pretty crème bouncer might look better in your living room, baby will get more of a kick out of a bright blue or red one.. Here are a few items I’d suggest to any Mom..

Swing: 9 out of 10 babies love a swing and this will most likely be your life line the first 4-6 months.. Easiest thing to get a baby to sleep. I suggest you get a travel sized one.. They’re a bit cheaper, you get the same life and usage out of them, they take up less room AND you can fold them up and take them with you! This is the Fisher Price Aquarium Take Along Swing

Playgym: Again, look for something really colorful and with lots of interesting toys to grab @ and hold.. I’m getting this very vibrant Baby Einstein Play Gym

Exersaucer: These are great cause baby gets to sit up and play with toys. I don’t recommend getting a walker because a.) that could get baby into a lot of trouble or even seriously hurt and b.) it’s not supposed to be good for their legs.. Best to wait for them to start walking on their own. Here is the Evenflo SmartSteps Exersaucer Entertainer

Bouncer: My kids didn’t quite care for them so I’m not getting another but they’re alright for most. Here is one that has a lot going on. The Fisher Price Sensory Selections Bouncer

Rockers: I’m already settled on getting other stuff but this would be very nice to have – and convertible too for extra bonus points! The Fisher Price Newborn to Toddler Rocker

For a slightly different kind of rocker, there’s also the new and super cute Baby Einstein Discovering Water Rocker Seat

Jumpers: These are great for a little bit of leg action (less than a walker) and they’re pretty much just like excersaucers but with way more jumpiness for your little kangaroo.. I’m getting the Fisher Price Rainforest Jumperoo

And for corralling your little escape artist later down the road there are two particular gates I like

The Evenflo Soft & Wide Gate – adjustable to cover as much as 48’’ of doorway, maybe even more because I use it to block the wide entryways between rooms in my villa and they’re pretty darn wide

The Evenflo Top Stair Gate – I have two of these in the box, never used them but they’ve got so many rave reviews and seem to last a long time

I couldn’t possibly comment on baby toys as there’s an unending selection. But I stick to recommending whatever is most colorful and whatever is most interactive.. Babies love music too so anything that plays a tune that you can stand hearing 30 times in a row (with an “off” option of course) would be good.. I also recommend Baby Einstein line of videos and music cds.. I wouldn’t say they’re sure to turn your kid into a genius but they are really engrossing! For parents too! They’re not too painful to watch with your children.. My about to be 5 yr old STILL requests to watch some of them and I have them all..

I’m sure I’m missing a few things but this is the gist of it.. Whatever I didn’t mention that you’re thinking of is probably because it’s a no-brainer thing I know you’re already contemplating.. Either way, I hope this helped you out in any capacity.. I have to do some revamping to my registry so I’m off to do that.. Meh, this took awhile who am I kidding.. I’m really off to take a nap :D

Yay! 2nd Trimester Online!

2008-01-01T08:59:00.000+03:00

Here's what's goin' on in our 4th Month!

* Fingernails, Eyelashes, Eyebrows and Head Hair are all forming up now - wonder what it'll look like? Dark and curly like Tatum's? Lighter and straight like Drake's? A mix would be cute..

* The outer ear is finished forming so he can now hear my voice - sorry bebeh! I does a lot of yelling "No" and "Stop that!".. Don't mean to scare you! You'll get used to it.. :D

* Baby sets to work making #1 and #2 - and so the circle of life continues! But don't get grossed out - #2 stays in the intestinal tract until birth (usually) and fetus peepee is so gentle that they can breathe it in along with the amniotic fluid without doing any harm to themselves..

* I've already began feeling "quickening" which are basically little flutters you feel when the baby moves around.. it's kind of like little thonking and I especially experience it when Pedro is driving >.>.. (again, sorry bebeh - Daddy is a horrible driver as you will well learn) - I expect full on kicks in the next week or two

* By the end of this month baby will have almost doubled in size! It's big'ol melon head is still twice the size of it's body though..

* I'm 35% done making this baby, woot! (that's a real word now - look it up)

* I'm having cravings for jarred and canned foods, particulary ones that are very sweet and/or very briney! Which is the main reason I love these!

They're called "Peppadews" and they're the best of both worlds - they're sweet cherry-like peppers.. My last boss introduced them to me as they're a new and upcoming thing.. They're also a pricey little craving (about $12 a jar - I ordered 6 online, lol) - I fill them with a creamcheese/Lepetite Moulé mixture

(or you could just use Alouetté) so I get that creamy/salty/sweet effect.. I'm also a fan of pepperochini and marachino cherries! Additionally, I'm lovin' some OJ and Vanilla Eggnog!

[talking of food just made me really hungry so I stopped here to make a snack of graham crackers topped with Nutella and Banana Slices with a mega-gulp cup of skim milk]

* According to the Chinese Lunar Calender I'm set to have a boy, which I've been sensing anyway.. I could be totally off-base but in the meantime it's just a bit of good fun.. any other mommies wanna take a crack @ it?
http://www.parentingweekly.com/pregnancy/pregnancy_information/chinese_calendar.htm

*** I'll be going in for my next OB appt someday soon here.. The jetlag is absolutely awful so until I have a chance to acclimate I'll hold off.. The weird thing about OB appts here is that yes, you go in as often as you would to offices in the states but you come whenever during the day.. It's kinda a first come first served basis though so I always show up now @ 9:00 am on the dot.. There's a coffee shop right outside of the office IN the hospital so I just chill there with my decaf mocha latte til I see other women clamering for a number ticket..

And with that I wish you all a great New Years.. I'll be eating Japanese food so you know I'll be having a good time.. Toodles!