Dunnaway Family blog

Florida Update :)

2011-06-07T14:16:00.012-05:00

First the good news: We're having a blast! Levi is being an absolute angel and loving all the attention from Aunt Maquel, Uncle JD, Meemaw and Sir! We're not too sunburnt and the daytime weather has been pretty good. I'm getting some much deserved relaxation time!

Now bad news: We had a really bad storm last night that actually blew in the door to our condo! The winds were so strong, it bowed the door in and busted the frame from the wall. We had the patio door open which caused a wind tunnel and chaos ensued!!!!! It was the scariest thing I have ever experienced in my life. It took three people to close the door and hold it closed until the wind slowed down. Worse news, another storm is blowing up right now :( A couple of pics of the light show after the storm passed:

It's been a while...

2011-03-29T15:48:00.002-05:00

So, I realized today that it's been a while since I posted anything to ye' olde blog. Although, I'm sure nobody noticed, I'm still inclined to apologize. For the sake of posterity, here are some cute things that Levi has been up to lately: - He loves basketball. He plays basketball for an hour or more every single day. It's by far his favorite game. - he sings commercials, all the time. He never says CFSB center without adding, "your life, your bank" - potty trained - 100% - He loves to help with laundry. He knows how to load the dryer and turn it on.

Trick r' Treat

2009-10-31T20:58:00.006-05:00

Fall Pictures...

2009-10-31T08:45:00.005-05:00

Here's some fall pictures to show you what Levi's been up to. Some of the pictures are from the cook-out we had with the Dunnaway side last weekend and some are of Levi checking out the pumpkin we finally tracked down yesterday! Wal-Mart and Kroger are both out of Pumpkins!

2009-07-04T14:53:00.004-05:00

Levi was proud to represent FNB Bank in the Murray Freedom Fest Parade today. He was escorted by Nana and PawPaw and was the star of the entire event. The mayor just called to let me know that they are renaming the parade in honor of Levi Dunnaway - the coolest kid in Murray. With the assistance of an eager Nana, Levi tracked down enough candy to last him and plenty of other parade paraphernalia. If you're wondering, yes that is a harness my son is wearing. It's hard to keep a leash on greatness, but we do the best we can.

Potty

2009-06-23T13:27:00.002-05:00

LEVI USED HIS POTTY TODAY!!! For those who don't know, we started working on potty training yesterday. I have no idea what I'm doing with this whole potty training thing, but it looks like we're on the right track.

On a sad note, I shut Levi's finger in the door yesterday and it's all purple and swollen - pretty gross looking. Hoping it starts to look better soon!

2009-06-23T11:11:00.008-05:00

I know that I'm a little late... Hope everyone is having a good summer - here are the high-demand Florida vacation pics you've all been waiting for. Levi kept trying to escape when we were down at the pier taking family pictures... He really liked hanging out under the umbrella

There's a smile!! Finally!

Levi wanted to swim by himself SO BAD!!

Yes, that is a poptart...

This was Levi's absolutely favorite thing! At one point, he actually fell asleep while out on the water!!!

Family Pictures!

2009-05-30T19:33:00.001-05:00

Levi singing How Great Is Our God...

2009-05-26T16:35:00.004-05:00

Levi had a lot of fun playing with the Dunnaway side of the family on Memorial Day! We had a waterballoon dodgeball game and a cook-out. I think i can safely say that a good time was had by all. Levi is doing so many new things these days. He loves french fries and even starts screaming "fry, fry" whenever he sees a McDonalds commercial. He still tries to eat soap and lotion, a habit I've been trying to break (unsuccessfully). He likes to play "ring around the Rosey" and "I'm gonna get you." He can say "Juice" and "More" and almost always says "thank you" (even when it's not necessary). It's hard to see him growing up right in front of my very eyes!

levi's haircut

2009-04-27T06:39:00.003-05:00

Levi got a big-boy haircut this weekend. Not sure if I like it though... I miss my baby boy. Also, he's got hand, foot and mouth disease so keep us in your prayers. We love you guys, Thanks!

EASTER

2009-04-15T20:42:00.006-05:00

I was ready to go to work on Monday to recover from all the running we did on Easter!!!! Here's a photo summary: Playing Basketball (with a soccer ball) with Lil' David

Blowing Dandelions

Mom's favorite picture!!!

Dumping the eggs on his head

Levi and his basket

All in all, it was a great holiday! Next year Levi will be ready to give all the other kids a run for their money in the big hunt!!!

Spring Break

2009-04-02T13:26:00.004-05:00

Spring Break is almost over! I've had such a lazy, relaxing week at home with Levi. We've been eating frozen pizza, spring cleaning and playing outside (when it's not raining - which hasn't been much this week!)

I also got around to taking those embarassing bathtub pics that I've been meaning to take... What good mother doesn't take naked bathtub photos to use as blackmail for their children in their teenage years???

Playing Outside

2009-03-16T21:11:00.005-05:00

Yesterday, we played outside and helped dad clean the garage out. Levi got a hair cut this week - he's sporting his super cute big boy look in the pics below. He's got a few tricks up his sleeve to show-off on Easter. He's singing the 1-800-Safe Auto commercial. He can point to his ears, eyes, nose and mouth. He can count to ten and says thankyou when you hand him things. Oh, and he learned how to dip his fries in ketchup... And his fingers... And his toys... and Mommy...

Spring Fever...

2009-02-07T13:24:00.007-06:00

We finally got to go outside and play today! Praise God for decent weather! We survived the ice storm very well last week with a little help from a generator. Both sets of grandparents are still without power though. Levi had so much fun outside today. He played with his truck and dad took him for a ride in the wheel barrow. He tried to pick up every single ball in the yard all at the same time. I can't wait for summer!

Christmas 08

2008-12-28T18:44:00.008-06:00

Levi loves his Nana

Stocking Time at Grandma Walston's house

Shootin' hoops with Aunt Quel

Levi loves his pony

Opening his first gift at Memaws

Baby Mozart takes a break for a photo op
Christmas has come and gone and now we stand on the verge of a new year. Levi would like to thank everyone for his wonderful presents. They are currently spread all over the house in various degrees of disarray, regardless of my efforts to tidy the joint up. As for me, I'm enjoying every single minute of Christmas break. Life with the Levi gets better every single day... Although, he is going to visit memaw tomorrow. There's no shame in that though, is there?

Tis the Season...

2008-12-18T20:39:00.004-06:00

You know, I was a little hesitant to put up the Christmas tree this year. I knew that, with Levi's curiousity, it might prove to be more of a headache than it was worth. However, Levi has been surprisingly excellent. He hasn't really messed with the tree and presents much at all. Occasionally he might remove and ornament, but he usually brings it to me immediately and hands it over.

Levi opened his first Christmas presents of the year today. Aunt Linda got him legos and some baby cars. At first he wasn't too interested in the wrapped presents, but when we started tearing the paper he got more involved... I've got a feeling that, by the end of next week, he's going to think that opening presents is his day-job!

Well, that's all i have for tonight. Levi is very sleepy and just begging to go to bed early. He keeps trying to stand on top of his monster truck, which of course, keeps rolling out from under him. Now he's spinning in circles singing "ashes, ashes" until he falls down. Kids are weird. So what's my excuse? I'm still working on that one.

2008-11-20T06:41:00.004-06:00

I almost forgot to upload some Halloween pictures. Here's the terrifying dragon that was seen destroying the neighborhood...

busy, busy, busy

2008-11-15T14:34:00.003-06:00

I can't believe it's been so long since my last post! I'm so sorry everybody! We've been so busy around here, that's it's hard to keep up. I cleaned out the fridge today during Levi's nap and I found things in there that were unrecognizable. I'm pretty sure we had bred some new life-forms in there that merit scientific investigation.

I know you're just dying to know the newest brilliant activities of my boy genius. Well, apparently he's watching way too much daytime TV because he's recently starting singing the Jeopardy theme song 24/7. If he hears the word "jeopardy" he will start singing. He's also really learned the joy of dancing. When he hears fun music he'll start bopping up and down and laughing. he still loves to run in circles and tackle people. In church nursery, he's started trying to hug all the other kids until he knocks them over - he's really popular for this. They see him and start running. (already the playground bully :()

Well, I've had a few people hounding me for info on what Levi wants for Christmas... So, here's a few ideas:

- clothes size 18-24 months... jeans and such are always appreciated...
- shoe size - 5
- loves the alphabet...
- small, quiet toys (wait, that's what i like!)
- toys that involve music (now that he's singing the jeopardy theme song, it's becoming more and more obvious that he's musically gifted - he also loves to dance...)

A few neat toys I've spotted while surfing the net:
- Neat Mousepad toy - VTech A-Z Mouse Pad, $13, available at www.vtechkids.com
- Little Rocker Keyboard - http://www.parents.com/fun/toys/baby-toys/best-kid-tested-toys-2008/?page=4
- Leap Frog Fridge Phonics - http://www.parents.com/fun/toys/baby-toys/best-kid-tested-toys-2008/?page=16
Learn and groove Alphabet Drum - http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2310732

Santa is debating between these two toys: Your feeback appreciated...
http://www.parents.com/fun/toys/baby-toys/best-toys-babies-toddlers-2008/?page=11 (basketball hoop and slide - foldaway toy)
Bounce and Spin Zebra http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2298888

Pre-Halloween Festivities

2008-10-29T21:30:00.005-05:00

Tonight we performed the annual Pumpkin Torture celebration (aka carving a pumpkin)... Levi's participation was limited to running circles around mom in attempts to make her drop her knife and posing for the occassional photo op.

It's been way too long...

2008-10-09T11:29:00.005-05:00

Levi and I took a walk this morning down Phillips Drive. Don't tell grandma and grandpa Walston, but we took the wagon on a little "off-road" adventure through a corn field.

Wow - he's growing and learning more every single day! You wouldn't believe everything he's able to do now! He runs through the house, chases the cat, brings us his cup when he wants more to drink. He's amazing. This weekend, Levi's going to spend the night with Nana and Papaw! He's so excited!

Yes, We're Still Here

2008-09-13T16:04:00.006-05:00

I know it's been a while, but things have been MORE than hectic around here the last three weeks. All my school "stuff" has kicked in full force and our Tuesday/Thursday babysitter Linda has been unavailable because of family illness. Doesn't look like it's going to get any better this week either! If you're interested in "visiting" with the Levi-head this week, just give me a call. I know we can work something out!!! Now, here's some pictures taken in the last few weeks.

LOOK - He's walking! Does that tongue remind you of anyone you know???

More walking - He sure does LOVE his wagon! SWINGING :)

Levi the Baller

2008-08-20T21:52:00.003-05:00

This past week, Levi played some scrimmage games with a few UK players. Here's a pic of him pulling up for a sweet dunk while guarded... (thanks Uncle Shane...) Gilespie has been calling every hour these days. I think we'll have to get our number changed...

Levi's First Lake Trip

2008-08-10T20:40:00.005-05:00

On a whim, we took Levi down to Fenton this weekend. He laughed his head off the whole walk down to the water. As soon as his feet hit the pebbles, he took off straight for the waves. He conquered a log (carefully examined by mom for snakes first of course), a big rock, and then he walked straight out into the water as far as mom would let him go. Then, he started screaming his head off. I think he got some pebbles in his sandles. (Grandma Walston will be SO proud - we were wearing shoes!!!) So, it was a short trip - but a good one.

Levi is growing up more and more every single day. Today he started standing up on his own without pulling up on anything. He also climbed up on the bed and the couch by himself (and fell off by himself as well). We haven't quite mastered the dismount yet, but I know eventually he'll stick the landing. (What can I say, I've got Olympic fever.)

I've got to go make sure Levi brushes his teeth and takes his vitamins before he goes to bed. We'll write again next weekend...

Levi Walking

2008-08-09T16:43:00.003-05:00

First Steps!!!

2008-08-06T22:19:00.002-05:00

I think we've got a walker on our hands!! Levi walked the full length of the couch on his own several times tonight. He's also letting go of furniture and taking a few steps. What a big boy! I apologize that I haven't put pictures up in a while. Back to school season has me a little bit behind. Levi sends all his love and can't wait to show off his new mobility skills to all his friends and family.

What a GREAT Party!

2008-07-27T22:05:00.005-05:00

Levi had such a great time at his birthday party! So what if my living room looks like a tornado hit a toys r us?!? We just wanted to thank everybody for coming and for all the cool presents. I think he's all set in the toy department (until Christmas that is).

I think he enjoyed the paper more than the toys though. For Christmas he'll be getting a few bags full of nothing but paper to play with! (Along with everything else of course...)

Birthday Party Invitation

2008-07-16T10:43:00.004-05:00

Can you believe that Levi is almost 1 year old??? It just doesn't seem possible... In light of the first annual Levi-fest, we will be hosting a BIRTHDAY PARTY at our house next week! Here are the details:

When: Saturday, 7/26, 1-3 p.m.
Where: Dunnaway house - email or call me for directions...
Who: All our family and friends

Just give me a call or an email if you plan on coming so that I can have enough cake for everyone!

If you want to bring a present for Levi, here are a few things he loves:

- anything with a wheel on it!
- hard books - he likes books so much, he tries to eat them and rip them to shreds - they gotta be tough!
- big fan of the alphabet and the alphabet song
- Baby Einstein DVD's
- cash - Nana (tina) has a savings account set up for Levi. You can deposit directly into the account, but any cash he receives will also go into his account.

Don't feel obligated to bring a present though - Levi just looks forward to seeing all his family and friends and sharing his BIG DAY with everyone he loves...

Hope to see you there!

Back By Popular Demand

2008-07-09T16:41:00.002-05:00

Here is a new video for all you Levi fans out there! This one is hot off the presses, taken just a few minutes ago. It proves once again the sheer genius of my offspring. I'd write more, but I've got a poopy diaper to change. You guys enjoy the film and have some extra popcorn for me!

1st 4th of July!!

2008-07-07T09:14:00.005-05:00

We had such a wonderful weekend!

Thursday we had supper with Nana and Papaw and Uncle Curtis. Other than the fact I'm the world's worst rib-griller, we had a blast. Levi loved the opportunity to take all the company for many walks around the house.

Friday, we went to Memaw's for some pool time. We had a really nice and restful afternoon and supper until it was time to break out the fireworks! (sorry all - I couldn't resist) I was a little worried that Levi would be scared, but he didn't mind the fireworks at all! Next year, we'll have him shooting bottle rockets out of his diaper (just kidding - no phone calls please!)
Saturday we hit the parade in Murray. Once again, the loud noises didn't bother Levi in the slightest bit! Let me remind you, my child is no normal kid - he's a man! Tell him that enough times I guess and it starts going to his head! He loved the parade, but got a little tired toward the end. He also loved the fireworks in Murray Saturday night. They were, might I add, the best fireworks display yet. Very cool show this year! I think they heard Levi was coming and they wanted to do a super-great job for his first 4th of July!

(Levi driving around town - he's pretty good with the steering wheel - it's the pedals he has problems with)

Well, I've got to go get some pictures uploaded and printed off! If you haven't heard yet, www.snapfish.com has a special going where they will print prints for 1 cent each!! Just gotta order 50 - no problem here! It's a really great website - I've used them before so, no worries. Give them a try - they have some great specials! (You do have to pay shipping, but it's not much at all!)

Here are some pictures to hold you over until you have some prints in your hand! Enjoy! Oh, and Levi says "ne oh hi ho ooo" I think that means, "I love you all" or "I'm a man" - something like that!

Family Fun

2008-06-28T12:07:00.005-05:00

I realized that I hadn't put any family pictures up in a while. Yep - dad and i still exist, contrary to popular opinion that Levi is the only person of value in the world. I'm wiping the tears here. Pity party time!!!

Play Date!

2008-06-25T23:48:00.002-05:00

The Smee's came over last night for supper and a play date! Here are some pictures to prove it!

Latest Accomplishments...

2008-06-19T14:31:00.002-05:00

It's pretty weird watching a baby turn into a real person. I mean that in the nicest way possible. It seems like just yesterday when Levi was just a person shaped blob of humanity that could only eat, poop and cry. Well, eating, pooping and crying are still pretty high on his list, but he can do a ton of other stuff as well!!! Here's a quick list of Levisms as of the last few days:

1. Still loves Wheel of Fortune - also enjoys Mickey Mouse Clubhouse and Jeopardy.

2. Wants mom and dad to "walk" him everywhere. He grabs our fingers and takes off.

3. Favorite place to walk: anywhere painful. Gravel, mulch, hot concrete. No grass here.

4. Doesn't want to eat baby food anymore. Wants mommy's food.

5. Can drink out of a straw!!!!! And loves it!!!

6. Working on drinking from a cup. We practice in the bathtub (not with bath water!) He's progressing nicely.

7. Likes to grab Turbo and SQUEEZE.

8. Can crawl up steps... down is a different story...

9. Can dismantle office chairs.

10. We're working on saying, "John McCain"...

Picture Update

2008-06-05T14:00:00.005-05:00

I know I've been a little late in getting some of these up - but they are worth waiting for, if you ask me!!! Here's Levi after eating a cookie yesterday...

Here's levi in his pool. This is the funny face he makes when he's trying to make a point. i think he's got water in his eyes...

Here's our very first hair cut! He wants to eat the scissors. luckily, we pulled this off with no major incidents...

Here he is about 10 minutes before his first haircut. one last reminder of what the Shaggy Levi looked like. I really like his hair cut :)

More video coming soon... he's been up to more cute stuff then I can keep up with!

Pool Time

2008-05-29T20:57:00.002-05:00

Levi got his very first kiddie pool today. He sure did have a fun time playing in it. I'm hoping this video works, but if not, i'll have pictures on later. He also got his very first haircut today!

Uncle Curtis - add us on Facebook!!!

Memorial Day Weekend

2008-05-26T17:25:00.004-05:00

The weekend started with a cookout at Memaws house. Then Levi spent the night with Nana and Papaw and got to spend some quality time with his uncle Curtis. I'm not sure who wore who out - but I think Nana and Papaw need a nap. Here's some pictures from the weekend adventures:

Summer Break!

2008-05-23T22:38:00.002-05:00

Summer vacation is finally here - Yippee! I'm ready to kick up my feet, rest and relax and...wait a minute! I can't do any of those things - I've got a 10 month old! I guess I'll be spending the next couple of months chasing Levi around. He's getting into everything lately. he's finally started pulling up and started about the serious business of teething. No little gems yet, but they should bust through any day. Oh boy. He's going to stay with his Nana and Papaw this weekend, any takers for next weekend???

First Presidential Visit

2008-05-17T09:02:00.003-05:00

Yesterday we went to see Bill Clinton speak at the Playhouse in the Park in Murray. I'm not a big Clinton fan, but famous people don't come to Western Ky very often. As a Social Studies teacher, I just couldn't pass up the opportunity.

We snapped some quick pics (like the one above - nice, right?) and then headed out after about 10 minutes. I think he spoke for about 2 hours.

Levi was very excited about the wind in his hair, but completely oblivious to Bill. I'm kinda glad he didn't get anywhere near him. He would have chewed on him or pulled his nose. gotta go, Poopie Head just made a doozie of a mess! Any Volunteers?

2008-05-07T21:06:00.001-05:00

Pictures from Levi's Dedication - What a great night!!!

So Sue me...

2008-05-07T16:33:00.002-05:00

I'm a day or so late in the update, but I forgot that I had the speech banquet last night! Levi weights 21 pounds! He's 29 inches long and right on track for his age. He slept through the night last night!!! Miracle of all Miracles...

Here you go - Curtis!

2008-05-06T06:48:00.002-05:00

I was trying to wait to update until I could figure out how to get the video to work, but SOMEONE I know who is my brother is getting a little bit antsy for news about his nephew. Well, Levi's doing great. We go for a well-baby appointment today So i'll get back with you with that news later on today. Levi loves to walk but he needs some help with balance so we have to hold his hands. He's going to figure out this walking thing soon and just take off, I'm afraid!

What's New!?!?!?!

2008-04-22T21:22:00.002-05:00

Lots of news to report on the Levi-front! He slept through the night a couple of weeks ago and started pulling up this weekend. Today, he finally starting experimenting with the notion of crawling! I thought he was going to go straight to walking, but I think he'll crawl after all! I'm working on adding video, but it might take me a while to figure out all the technology!

Sunny Day

2008-04-07T08:28:00.005-05:00

We took full advantage of the beautiful day yesterday and got in the yard to pull some weeds from the flower beds. Levi supervised from the comfort of his wagon. He even took a ride in his wheelbarrow.

Funny Levi facts for today:

- he loves Wheel of Fortune. Even on the grumpiest of days, he will sit quietly and watch Pat Sajack and the spinning wheel. He still cries during commercials, though. Goal for today: record Wheel fo Fortune so we can fast forward through the commercials and play it day or night.

- green veggies give him gas! I think I've figured out that the green veggies were keeping him up at night. Since we've cut them out, he sleeps much better.

- He can hold his own bottle now. Why does this make me sad? i should be happy...

- He's almost crawling. SO CLOSE! Goal this week: Levi-proof the house.

- He loves to be outside. I've got to go get some sunscreen!

That's all for now, but I have a feeling there'll be more by the end of the week! I'm on Spring Break this week - yippee!

Easter

2008-03-24T16:35:00.004-05:00

The Easter Bunny was on vacation in the tropics to get away from the frigid temps, but Levi had plenty of grandma's around to fill in the gap! It was a cold day for hunting eggs! Luckily, Nana hid all of Levi's eggs on the front porch at Grandma Walston's house. The first Easter wasn't quite as grand and glorious as I had imagined it would be, but it was fun nonetheless. We started the day off running extremely late and didn't stop running til we hit the sack that night. Luckily, Levi's too little to remember how grumpy mom was on his very first Easter Sunday... Maybe I'll do better next year.

In other news, Levi is SOOOO close to crawling. He can pull up on all fours, but hasn't quite conquered forward motion yet. It should be anytime now... He's still not sleeping great, but that's a whole nother "grumpy momma" story...

The pictures are of Levi and his first Jello egg (sitting in my old high chair), Levi in his Easter best (grandpa hat and all) and Levi taking a break from egg hunting.

Turbo

2008-03-12T06:36:00.003-05:00

Turbo is more than just our cat, he's more like a part of the family. Levi LOVES him. He gets all excited whenever he sees him and he wants to grab onto him and yank his fur out. Turbo's been great about the whole thing - he's a really wonderful cat.

Now that Levi can say "dada" and "mama", it's only natural that he would move on to "burbo", right? That's totally normal, right? Would it be weird and wrong to teach Levi to call the cat, "bubba?"

7 Months Old

2008-02-23T16:14:00.003-06:00

I can't believe Levi is almost 7 months old! It just doesn't seem possible. This weeks newest tricks: eating Cheerios (and throwing them all over creation) and squealing at the top of his lungs. My ears hurt and I think i've got cereal between my toes. It's worth it though, it's all worth it. I might even consider doing this whole kid thing again sometime - but don't hold me to that!

Squash

2008-02-17T10:45:00.002-06:00

Okay, so I should have checked the blog poll before I went shopping for Levi's first Veggie...

We started with Squash (the one veggie no one voted for!) Sorry about that...

Anyway, Levi seemed to really like his squash better than the fruits we've been feeding him. He slurped them down without even a grimace or a funny face. With Levi-head away at Nana and Papaw's for the weekend (mom and dad are sick :( ), I thought this would be a great time to catch everyone up on what Levi's been doing lately:

- He's sitting up on his own quite nicely which makes it a lot easier to feed him from his high chair!
- He's getting around in his walker, just about anywhere he wants to go! Gotta move the plants! He's got Turbo running for his life!
- He learned how to spit this week (thanks to Papaw!)
- We tried our first finger foods this week - raisen pieces and bits of animal crackers.
- He can pull his upper body up with his arms and he's starting to try to pull his bottom half up too - we think he'll be crawling VERY soon (2-3 weeks maybe)
- He's sleeping a little better. On a good night he only gets up once (2-3 a.m.)!!!
- He's saying "dadadadada" when he's happy, "MAMA" when he's mad and may even be saying "bottle" - that's still up for debate.
- His favorite toy right now is our FACE. He wants to pull it, poke it, slap it, bite it. He loves faces.

All in all, We're starting to think that maybe this whole baby thing wasn't such a bad idea. He's starting to get fun and I think we're finally starting to settle into a routine. He really is a good baby and obviously has superior intelligence. We'll keep you updated as new developments arise!

What's new on the Levi Front

2008-02-10T17:14:00.000-06:00

Levi is now rolling over "at will". He's a definite wiggle worm! He's also figured out how to manipulate his walker-thinger-ma-bob so that he is now chasing the cat all around the house. I think he gets more excited when he sees Turbo, then he does about seeing anyone else (including mom and dad.)

He's saying "daddadadadadad" now, but we're not sure he relates the phrase to Shawn. We're eating pears, peaches, apples and bananas in the baby food. He seems to like the pears the best. Gotta go feed the little man - again!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

2008-01-19T14:03:00.000-06:00

Levi wanted to wish his Uncle Curtis and Great-Grandpa Walston Happy Birthday. He got so excited just thinking about you guys that we just had to take a picture of it. We Love You!

On a Roll?

2008-01-15T06:53:00.001-06:00

Levi rolled over at MeMaw Jody's house yesterday! He still hasn't done it for mom and dad yet though! Pooh! We knew he could do it all along, he's just a little hard-headed. He likes to do things his way. I HAVE NO IDEA where he gets that.

Levi's First Christmas

2007-12-27T17:15:00.000-06:00

Christmas has just never quite felt right in our house and now I know why! You really need a little one to make the season feel complete. Levi had a wonderful first Christmas thanks to all his grandparents (and great and great greats) that made him feel so special and loved. He also loved getting together with all his aunts, uncles and cousins that he doesn't get to see nearly enough. He also wanted to apologize for his fussiness - it was all just so overwelming that he didn't know how to react!

I'm including some picture highlights that I hope you enjoy! I know you will!

Happy New Year everyone!

Christmas Miracle!

2007-12-20T10:22:00.000-06:00

Levi slept from 10-4 last night!!! That's the first time he's slept 6 hours in a row! I'm not going to get my hopes up that he'll make a habit of it, but at least its a start. Attention everyone - There's a Light at the End of the Tunnel!!!!

I'm wondering if all that sleep can be attributed to Memaw feeding him some oatmeal cereal yesterday? Thanks MeMaw!

See you all soon!

Christmas Pictures At Last

2007-12-17T16:30:00.001-06:00

Last night the stars must have aligned because we finally got all the right people, equipment and holiday periphenalia together in one place to make a Christmas photo possible. Levi wanted me to tell his mass of adoring fans that he says hello and he hopes to see you all soon!

Latest Dr's Visit

2007-12-08T22:06:00.000-06:00

Levi visited the Dr. last week for his 4 month check-up. (I CAN'T BELIEVE it's only been 4 months... it feels like it's been an eternity...) He weighed in at 16 pounds 11 ounces and 23 2/3 inches long. He also got his shots which did NOT go over well. He takes after his mom in that regard - I don't care too much for shots either.

I'm thinking of writing a book about how to survive with long-term sleep deprivation. It's going to be called, Yes, this is really your life. Yes, it sucks. With the subtitle - What to do when you are tempted to sleep in the garage. Levi is waking up every 2-3 hours most nights STILL. Please feel free to offer ANY suggestions you might have.

By the way, if I have one more person suggest setting up a nighttime routine I'm going to scream. The poor kid has a different schedule almost every day - the only thing that is certain is that he'll be looking at me every 2-3 hours every night.

I'll also scream if anyone else tells me to put cereal in his bottle. Tried it already - doesn't help. So, would you please stop sharing the stories of how your child suddenly started sleeping 8 hours at once when you put cereal in their bottle? Stories of your success do not help me at all.

My friends kid (who was born just one hour after Levi) slept 11 hours the other night. I don't sleep 11 hours total in a 48 hour period! Tell me how that is fair. I'll help you out - it's not. It's not fair at all. But, it's like i tell the kids at school - life's not fair.

I know you're all anxiously awaiting more pictures of my child. I really should take a picture - it would help me remember what he looks like since i hardly ever see him. I'm working on it and should have some up soon...

That's all for now. I'm going to go sleep for about 5 minutes and then wake up again. (repeat until about 7 tomorrow morning) Then, I'm going to go find a brick wall and bang my head on it.

What's New in Levi Land

2007-11-23T12:01:00.000-06:00

Well, he ALMOST turned all the way over on his tummy from his back this morning. He was laying on my cool new bathroom rug ($5 at Surplus City) watching me get ready and he turned on his side and was almost over on his belly! So, I yelled at Shawn to hurry up and look and (of course) he rolled back over on his back again. Oh well...

We'll have some super cute Christmas pictures up as soon as we get the tree up... Grandma Walson has already put in her requests and we hate to disappoint!

TV Junkie

2007-11-10T15:35:00.000-06:00

I'm a little worried that Levi is turning into a TV Junkie. He lights up whenever Bob the Builder is on, and he's been watching UK basketball with grandpa like it's going out of style. (May not be too far from the truth there... Maybe UK basketball is going out of style if they're going to be losing to teams like Garner Webb... Maybe Grandpa needs to start watching a REAL basketball team...like Murray State...)

Anyway, Levi recently told me that he wouldn't mind having some Baby Einstein DVD's for Christmas so that he can be absorbing educational and beneficial information while he's glued to the set. (Instead of demonstrations of poor basketball skills that might inhibit his development as a baller later on in life.)

Halloween and More pictures

2007-11-08T19:23:00.000-06:00

I know it's a little late, but I thought I'd update everyone on what Levi did for Halloween. I wasn't really planning on doing anything, but then I couldn't allow myself to not celebrate his very first national holiday! I picked him up from MeMaws where I found he was sporting this super cool Halloween onsie. Then we went to visit great-grandma Walston in Mayfield and surprised Nana at the bank.

The second picture is one of Levi after his last bath. This is proof that I do bath my son. (MOM) Do I need to provide further documentation, or will this do for now?

My Chunk

2007-11-04T18:19:00.000-06:00

Levi's up to about 15 1/2 pounds now and really starting to reach for things. If you hold his pacifier in front of his face, he will sometimes grab your hand and bring it to his mouth. He's drooling a lot too. The entrepreneur in me is wondering if there is a market somewhere for baby drool. It seems to me that they produce so much of it that it should have some type of marketable purpose. I wonder if anyone has ever experimented with baby drool in anti-aging lotions? As soon as I figure out how this works, we're going to be very rich. However, considering the fact that I'm sleeping less now than ever, I doubt I'll ever discover anything more than my pillow.

What's He Gonna Do Next?

2007-10-29T20:29:00.000-05:00

Well, it's been a while since Levi's done anything new and exciting. Mrs. Linda and Jody have both said that he's rolled on his side at their house, but until it happens with mom, it doesn't really exist! I have a feeling that the next time he does something new its going to really be something spectacular. Perhaps I'll wake up in the morning to find that he's fixed waffles for breakfast. Maybe, he'll write an essay on diaper rash in his sleep tonight. Or, he might just sleep more than 5 hours (Please God - let that be it) tonight! Luckily for me, he has been sleeping better lately. The only exception being Sunday night - he likes to make sure I'm good and zonked on Monday mornings. Otherwise, he's only getting up at 2 and 6.

Well, he's a fussing and I'm a running - toodles!

New Pictures

2007-10-15T21:36:00.000-05:00

Levi posed for some fall pictures this afternoon in the front yard. This is just one of about 800 i took :) Enjoy!

Pictures

2007-10-11T15:38:00.000-05:00

Levi's growing so fast that he hardly looks like the same kid anymore. I'm posting a picture of him grabbing a hold of his toy for those of you who doubted his brilliance... There's also a picture of him sitting in the recliner - no strings attached!

New Developments On the Hand Front

2007-10-09T09:33:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, I left Levi playing on his activity mat while I started a load of laundry. When I returned, his hand was outstretched toward his dangling, blue puppy and his fingers were wrapped around the handle (which is awkwardly placed on the blue puppies butt). As I approached, Levi lost his grip on the puppy. I quickly took his fingers back to the handle and he grabbed on and held on to it for about 3-5 minutes. He was pulling it towards his mouth. This is the first time, to my knowledge that Levi has grabbed onto something and held on.

As exciting as all this was, I'm pretty sure that Levi forgot all about it after about 1 hour because I haven't been able to get him to do it again. Oh well, he's got bad short term memory like his mom. Think of the genuis we'd both be without that one small flaw!

On a side note: what are we really teaching our children about their world when we make toys that are so unrealistic???!!! Really people! A blue puppy, with a white handle hanging between his legs? And, when you pull it, it sings "rock-a-by-baby"??? I can just see Levi in 3-4 years, petting a cute little puppy. He'll be reaching between the legs to see what he can pull on that will make him sing! :) That one was free friends. Thank you and I'll be here all week. Don't forget to tip your server.

At last...

2007-10-08T10:24:00.000-05:00

Rumor has it that our adoring fans have been up-in-arms about the lacks of posts lately! Let me sincerely apologize. Unfortunately, I've had to choose between updating the blog and feeding the kid lately and the Levi has won out!

Speaking of Levi, he's finally discovered his hands!! (kinda) If they happen to wander in front of his eyes, he'll get all excited and try to shove them into his mouth. He gets this crazy look on his face as he's doing so as if he were defusing a bomb. Shawn says he's going to be right handed, since that's the hand that's usually getting the slobber treatment. I'd like for him to be ambidextrous though, so I've been trying to get him to suck on his left hand too. It's one of many little science experiments I'm trying with Levi right now...

He's also reaching for things now. When he's laying on his play mat (which he loves to do), he'll stretch his arms out towards his dangling toys and bat them around haphazardly. He's still not figured out that he can use his hands and arms at the same time - right now, he's just swinging his arms around until he makes something happen. If he hits something, he gets all excited and laughs. if he doesn't hit something, he'll start crying.

He's smiling, talking and laughing a lot more now. Unfortunately, he's not sleeping any more than he used to. We're still going about 3 hours or less between feedings. I'm in the routine now, though so it's not too bad. Working on about 5 hours of sleep can be done, I'm just a psychotic zombie by the end of the day... that's all... no big deal really.

Levi's also getting to be quite the Momma and Daddy's boy. He wouldn't let his Uncle Shane and Aunt Dawn hold him at all yesterday after church. He wants to have us in his sight at all times. Sometimes, when I'm feeding him in the middle of the night, he'll stop eating just to give me this enormous "hey, I love you" grin and giggle. It's pretty cute. Not as cute as it would be if it weren't the middle of the night, but pretty cute.

I'm planning another photo shoot sometime this week, so I'll be posting some new pictures soon.

Back to Work

2007-09-20T07:11:00.000-05:00

Yesterday was my first day back to school and boy was it exhausting!!! I did miraculously manage not to cry - I know Levi's in good hands with his Memaw. I did take a nap in the recliner with my little snuggle bunny (Levi, not Shawn) as soon as I got home.

At the Dr.'s office on Tuesday Levi was up to 12 pounds! I knew he was getting on up there. I was visiting at school last week with Levi and ran into a couple of my students going down the hall. I was trying to carry his carseat and all the paraphenalia so when they asked me how I liked having a baby I said, "Girls - don't have babies. They're heavy." They thought that was pretty funny.

Update

2007-09-14T11:10:00.001-05:00

I know it's been a few days since I posted, but we've been busy running errands and enjoying my last few days before I have to return to work. It's funny - when he was two weeks old I was practically crying to go back to work. I probably would have left him with a traveling band of gypsies to go back to school. Now that he's a little older though, I don't really want to go back to work as much. Everybody told me it would happen, but I didn't believe them. I went yesterday for Parent teacher conferences for 3 hours and missed him so much I thought I would faint. (And I missed nursing him - I have a feeling that there's going to be much discomfort between pumping sessions at work!)

Enough about me - I know you guys only really read this to find out about Levi :) He's growing like a weed on steroids! I don't know for sure, but I'm betting he's pushing 11 pounds. He outgrew his first outfits this week. I've got 2-3 things that he never even got to wear. He's finally starting to get on a regular schedule:

6:30-8 - He naps, fusses, snacks and tries to poop. It takes him a while to get out all the gas that built up overnight.
8a.m. - 10 - fairly alert. Likes to see daddy off to work. He's giggling and talking to us.
10:30 - eat brunch
11-1 - sleeps
1 - eats lunch
1:30-3:00 - naps
3-6 - fairly alert period, sometimes fussy. usually snacks the whole time.
From 6-10 he's usually alert but hungry. He'll eat almost every hour until there's nothing left in the old feed bags.
10:00 - gets a bottle before bed. Half formula, half moms milk.
10:30-2:30 SLEEP GLORIOUS SLEEP
2:30 - takes another 1/2 n 1/2 bottle
3:30-5:30 SLEEP GLORIOUS SLEEP
5:30 - eats a little and naps a little

Now you know what we're doing at every moment of the day :)

In other new news, we recently moved up in diaper size from newborn to #1. That's pretty exciting, huh? We're practicing at grabbing our rattle, but it's not going so well so far.
He does like laying on his activity mat and does actually seem to be looking at the little dangling things now. He'll actually play just long enough for mom and dad to eat now.

He has requested a wagon for Christmas. He really liked the one he laid in at Columbus park and thinks he'd like to have one of those of his very own. He'd also like to send mom and dad on a romantic weekend getaway to the destination of your choice as one of his christmas presents. Don't look at me like that! I'm just the messenger :)

Happy Grandparents Day

2007-09-08T14:04:00.000-05:00

Levi must have overheard daddy and I discussing grandparents day. He is so gifted...

Labor Day

2007-09-04T17:16:00.001-05:00

5 GENERATIONS
We had a great Labor Day weekend. I think Levi has now met all of his relatives including his Uncle Curtis and his great great grandparents as well as a plethora of aunts, uncles and cousins.

You would think, with all this excitement during the day, he'd be sleeping like a log at night time. Not so! Neigh, Neigh! Oh - Contrare! He's both eating less and sleeping less at night. Mom and Dad are TIRED!

Motherhood tip of the day: A bottle in the hand is worth more than two boobs. It's faster, less messy, and easier to administer when you are technically still asleep.

New Pictures

2007-08-30T13:47:00.000-05:00

I took these today. I think they turned out pretty good! I've uploaded all the pictures I took today to

wal-mart.com so I can print some. Email me if you want the link and I'll send it to you! (Jenbumpkin@yahoo.com is my email!

RAIN

2007-08-30T09:57:00.000-05:00

Levi finally had the chance to see rain yesterday. It sprinkled just a little here at the house - the first time in over a month we've seen any precipitation. I'm working on some new pictures and hope to have those posted very soon. Maybe even today!

YIPPEE!

2007-08-28T13:45:00.001-05:00

Levi slept for four hours in a row last night! He hasn't done that since the first week he came home! Usually he's awake to eat every 2 hours - For example:

2:30 a.m. - Levi wakes to eat
2:45 a.m. - diaper change
2:48 a.m. - eat some more
3:00 a.m. - burp
3:15 a.m. - eat some more
3:25 a.m. - burp
3:40 a.m. - falls back to sleep
3:45 a.m. - mom pees and goes to sleep
4:30 a.m. - Levi wakes to eat

Suck

Your face crinkles
and flushes red
I climb slowly
from my bed
You whimper first
then start to scream
For a moment I think
I'm having a dream
Startled awake
I grab my boppy
Stick baby to boob
We're groggy and sloppy
A sudden latch
You hold on tight
This would be easier
If we had some light
A burp and a change
and walking the floor
and walking the floor
I can't take much more
You're eyes are closed
You're asleep but when
this hour is up
we'll do it again.

Dry Desperation

2007-08-27T12:21:00.000-05:00

Levi is a month and two days old today and:

IT HAS NEVER RAINED IN HIS LIFETIME

My son has never seen rain. Will he ever have the opportunity? Will it ever rain again? One day, he'll be coming to visit me as I rock on the front porch with a quilt over my lap and my hearing aid turned up. I'll look up from under wrinkled eye lids, gather my grandchildren into my lap, and tell them story after story about the days when it used to rain. They'll look at me in disbelief as I tell them about thunderstorms and floods and then they'll admit me into a home somewhere with a nice little fence and private room.

Who am I kidding? If it doesn't rain soon, this whole region will dry up and blow away and there'll just be a big whole right in the middle of the United States where WE used to be.

Dr. Update

2007-08-23T14:55:00.001-05:00

We just got back from the Dr. for a check-up! Levi is now a whopping 9 pounds 7 ounces and 21.5 inces long!!! No wonder my arms hurt so bad!

Motherhood tip of the day: Always keep an extra pacifier in the drawer next to the bed for when you drop the pacifier in the middle of the night. Two nights ago I was crawling around in the floor in the dark with a screaming kid at 3:00 a.m. looking for out beloved "Pappy" for about 15 minutes. I eventually gave up and went to find another one. Too bad there's no safe way to strap those babies on!

Uh

2007-08-22T10:52:00.001-05:00

I feel like my arms are going to fall off.

Swinging

2007-08-21T16:04:00.000-05:00

Nana brought Levi a swing this weekend. It makes him happy, which makes me happy. It gives me an opportunity to wash the pile of soiled clothing and blankets that seems to accumulate everyday. What can I say, my kid is a powerful pee-er. It can't be stopped.

In other news, Levi recently stopped sleeping during the day. He's looking around, flailing his arms and legs and occasionally screaming his face off. You might think that would make him sleep longer at night - you would be thinking wrong. He tries to sleep at night, but he's so hungry because he keeps falling asleep before he's done eating. You'd think i could just wake him up and keep feeding him - you'd be wrong. Nothing can wake him when he gets the notion to sleep. It's a vicious cycle.

"Sleep when he sleeps?" Uh - no. It's more like "sleep when you can't stay awake anymore."

Bad Mommy

2007-08-17T15:29:00.000-05:00

I guess everybody probably goes through moments when they feel like the worst parent in the world? Today I went to pick Levi up from a nap only to find that there was blood all around his eye. I immediately thought, "AAAAAHHHHHH I've blinded my son for life!!!" Come to find out though that he had scratched just below his eye and the blood had run up and around his eye lid while he slept. I'm not sure why I felt like a bad mommy. I trimmed his nails just two days ago.

Good news - I haven't been peed on yet today. Bring out the band, start the parade!! I got peed on twice yesterday, but that's just because we strayed from our favorite brand of diapers (Pampers), in efforts to finish off a bag of White Cloud diapers that we had left over. I have a lot of hate for White Cloud diapers. If I could equate diapers to vehicles, Pampers would be the Hummer and White Cloud would be the Volkswagon bug - an original model from the 60's.

I just realized that our cat (Turbo) has been asleep in the exact same place and same position for 6 hours straight. No, he's not dead - I suspected it too. Turbo has adjusted nicely to Levi, except for the fact that he resents being locked out of the bedroom at night.

Motherhood realization of the day: The baby will always poop a little more immediately after (or during) a diaper change. There is nothing I can do to prevent it. It's inevitable. Let it go.

Pictures

2007-08-13T20:16:00.000-05:00

Despite the fact that he just peed and pooped all over creation, he's still the cutest kid in the world.

What the...???

2007-08-10T15:11:00.000-05:00

I've been breastfeeding now for a little more than two weeks and I'm beginning to wonder how in the world our species survived extinction! I keep finding myself reflecting on the life of cavewomen mothers. It makes me feel better to compare my life to theirs. Even with modern conveniences such as gas drops, diaper creme, antibiotics and boppies I still spend a couple hours a day walking the floor with a screaming infant. At least it's the floor of my house and not the floor of a cave somewhere. At least I can shave my legs and catch a shower every now and then. At least I don't have to worry about the next ice age or whether or not my son will be the one to discover the wheel.

Anyway, I never realized how controversial breastfeeding is. Everybody has their own opinion of how it should be done. The pediatrician says to only feed them every two and a half hours and the lactation consultant says you should feed them whenever they want to eat. That's easy for her to say though - it's been about 30 years since her own little T-Rex's were pillaging the boob flock. So, I'm inclined to agree with the pediatrician that Levi should wait longer between feedings so I can build my milk supply and so that my nipples don't shrivel up and fall off. However, levi sides with the lactation consultant and thinks he should be able to eat every 45 minutes or so. Thus, the screaming insues. Both he and I.

I have continued to look for evidence that Levi is gifted more then most children and I think I've come up with something. He likes to play mind-games with me in the middle of the night. He'll start fussing and I'll sit up in bed to make sure he's not choking or suffocating or being abducted by aliens. As soon as I put my feet on the floor, he'll immediately stop fussing and go back to sleep. But, as soon as my head hits the pillow, he'll do it again. If I try ignoring his fussing, it will escalate into a full blown scream. This makes for a very grumpy mommy. His super-scensory powers are out of control.

Trauma Drama

2007-08-06T12:28:00.000-05:00

So... I woke up with 101.8 fever Saturday morning and a really bad headache. I called the dr. and he told me to go to the ER. Four hours, 1 CT Scan, several X-rays and about 4 pints of blood later and they diagnose me with Mastitis. (If you don't know what that is, look it up in the dictionary.) Luckily, the antibiotics have killed the fever and i'm feeling much, much better. Although certain "parts" feel like they have been ripped off my body, dropped in a deep fryer and then reattached.

Unfortunately, Levi has now decided that it's more convenient for him to eat once an hour. (Which is doing wonders for "certain parts") I've been trying to come up with a comparison for people who have never breastfed (and men) to understand what this feels like. Here are some of the possibilities:

1. Imagine someone tying a string to your pinky toes and dragging you behind a truck on the interstate.

2. Imagine you are attacked repeatedly by 30 little league baseball players that take turns whacking you in the knees with their bats.

3. Imagine you are somehow compelled to stick your tongue to the stove-top over and over and over again.

I'm a little bummed today. I had thought of a ton of good stuff to blog about over the weekend and I've completely forgotten all of it. AND, it's my anniversary and we're not really going to get to do anything. AND, all of my friends are at crumby in-service without me today. I'll never resent another single Professional development day again as long as I live! (Could be an exaggeration).

Well, I've got to go apply a hot compress to "certain parts" before my little cookie monster wakes up and starts ravaging the "cookie jar".

Side note: have you ever seen one of those shows on the discovery channel where the lions stalk the antelope before leaping at them and ripping them to shreds with their powerful enormous jaws? Levi is the Lion, my "certain parts" the antelope.

Stir-Crazy

2007-08-02T12:34:00.000-05:00

Grrrr... Being stuck in the house all the time is really starting to take it's toll on me. Don't get me wrong, I love my kid BUT... I'm bored. I'm too tired to do anything but feed Levi, change diapers and sleep. The TV's on, but I've lost interest. Days of Our Lives is on right now. Days of Our Lives - really? What has become of me? I'm even sad about not getting to start school next week!

I gotta go - Sammy's about to kill Stephano. I last watched an episode of "Days" when I was about 13 and sick with the flu for a week. It seems like Sammy was about to kill Stephano then too. What does it say about a show when you can miss 14 years of episodes and still pick right up where you left off?

Tip of the day...

2007-07-31T13:08:00.001-05:00

Direct the pointy end in the downward position and away from eyes and valuables.

I'm back..

2007-07-30T15:04:00.000-05:00

but only at half mast. You know, people tell you a lot of things about having a baby, but nobody ever talks about how you feel afterwards. Oh, they tell you that you'll never sleep again and you'll be an emotional mess, but they never mention the fact that your insides (and some outsides) feel like they've been put through a blender. I feel like a luke-warm, guts smoothie.

But... it was worth it. Levi was born on July 25th at 7:34 p.m. weighing 7 pounds 4 ounces and measuring in at a whopping 21.25 inches. You should see the feet on this kid! I must admit that he's pretty awesome. He can already turn on his side by himself and can reprogram the thermostat.

Although my initial inclination is to declare his giftedness to the world, I'll admit that in most ways he's probably as gifted as most 5-day-old babies. I'm intrigued by the fact that arms, legs and hands operate without any direction whatsoever from his brain. For example, no matter how hungry he gets or the proximity his lips come to the food source, both his hands always find their way into his mouth. He inevitably starts screaming bloody murder and looking at me as if I had placed them there myself. I keep trying to tell him that they are HIS hands, and that he'll have to figure out how to use them if he wants to solve the problem. He hasn't listened yet, which makes him about as advanced as most 7th graders I've encountered.

I'm going to put a few pictures up for starters today but rest assured that more will come. It's time for me to go rest again. I can tell because my limbs feel as if they are pooling like jello around my ankles.

Biggest surprise in motherhood so far: I never knew how happy I would be to hear a burb and a fart in the middle of the night.

Home

2007-07-28T12:14:00.000-05:00

We're all home. My kids the cutest kid in the world. As soon as I get my sense of humor back, I'll post something funny. Pictures coming soon.

Last Words

2007-07-23T17:59:00.000-05:00

I'm getting ready to report to the hospital for a heaping dose of cervidil (or as Dr. Cook calls it, "soap on a rope"). I'd like to leave you with my last words before motherhood:

Oh crap.

Breaking News!

2007-07-23T12:48:00.000-05:00

Bad News - I'm still not dialated in any shape, form or fashion.

Good News - We're going in tonight to try to get things moving. They are going to try to "ripen" my cervix. Besides the fact that I'm ecstatic to see a light at the end of the tunnel, the phrase "ripen my cervix" makes me think of warm, fresh, Georgia peaches. I don't know why, but it does. Yummy. Ripening is always a good thing, right? Everything is better if it's nice and ripe. Bring it.

We're supposed to report to the hospital at 7 tonight and hopefully have our little peach...er... I mean baby tomorrow. That's when things are going to get really interesting...

Going Crazy

2007-07-22T14:43:00.000-05:00

I'm going crazy. Can't do this much longer. That's all I've got.

5 minutes later...

2007-07-21T13:36:00.001-05:00

My mother-in-law calls wondering if she's got time to put up 250 ears of corn today. Could I hold things until she's done getting the corn frozen? She'd better be glad I love her so much or we'd be having mother-in-law head stew for dinner tonight :)

You Guessed It...

2007-07-21T10:05:00.000-05:00

We're officially a full week past our due date. Perhaps he's been waiting for aunt Jeanetta and aunt Jenny to get back from their trips since they both specifically told me to wait until today. What a thoughtful little boy I have have. Be warned - If anyone else asks me to wait until a certain day or time, I'm going to relieve them of their head and boil it in a stew.

I'm seriously considering going to bed and staying there until 10:00 Monday morning when Dr. Cook will tell me what we need to do to move this thing along. Instead, I think I'm going to spend the day playing Civilization IV with my loving husband and enjoying the peace and quiet of a childless house. At some point in the next couple of days I'm going to have to go to the grocery. All of the new-baby survival supplies I stockpiled two weeks ago are gone and the cabinets are bare again. To make things even more interesting, the toilets broke and we have to flush it using a lovely red ribbon now. At least the carseat is installed and ready to go.

And here's a little something for the world at large to chew on: I don't want to walk. I don't feel like it. I do enough walking between the couch and the bathroom. Sure, it may help bring on baby. But who wants to go through 5-10 hours of labor when you've just walked 10 miles? I don't care if it worked for your mom and your sister. I'm just not up for it right now so get off my back. Thank you.

False Hope

2007-07-20T09:32:00.000-05:00

I really and truly thought we were having a baby last night. I woke up about 4 times during the 1 o'clock hour with fairly powerful contractions. I went back to sleep though, figuring I'd need my rest later on. Woke up again around 4 (guess why) and contractions were gone. It was like my best friend moved to California.

I've decided that I'm going to try to forget about the whole being pregnant thing today and go on with my life as normal. I'm going to do some laundry, go into town for lunch and then head on up to school to try to get my room ready. Even though I'M not going back the first week of August, school still does technically start the first week of August. I've got to get prepared. Everyone keeps telling me that I won't care about my career anymore after the babies born, but I'm a little skeptical. I do like to eat very much, and my career is what makes that possible. Everyone also keeps telling me that I shouldn't be working in my room. They are worried I'll lift something or move something or otherwise over-exert myself. I'm thinking, "What's the worst that can happen?" I'm six days overdue - I'd consider setting my head on fire if it would speed things up a little bit!!!!

I have several theories on why I have still not given birth:

1. There is no baby. It's a cruel cosmic joke to pay me back for all the mean things I've done in my life.

2. I'm a failure as a mother. I can grow the kid, I just can't push it out. The whole process shut down while still in BETA testing.

3. The baby is putting off being born because he doubts our skills as parents. He's been with me long enough to know that I don't have a clue what I'm doing.

4. (Sigh happily) Every day in the womb he becomes more and more perfect.

5. I've won the "womb of the year" award and didn't even know it. It's got a soft velour lining, jacuzzi and unlimited access to Breyer's Peach Icecream.

6. My kid has my sense of humor and he's enjoying every moment of this. He's probably already written a series of humorous poetry, illustrating the excitement of slowly but surely driving his maternal figure to the point of absolute madness. Good news - he'll be rich one day and can afford to put me in one of those fancy, uptown institutions.

Things I've Tried...

2007-07-19T15:47:00.000-05:00

People keep giving me all this brilliant advice about what i could be doing to cause the baby to be born sooner. Nothing has worked so far seeing that I'm 5 days overdue and still not dialated, maybe you shouldn't try any of the following strategies:

- cleaning the floor on hands and knees
- walking
- labor balm (to be fair, it says it works best when you are dialated 2 cm or more, but I got desperate.)
- bribing the infant with food and cash prizes
- various exercises
- mexican food in large quantities

I know this list should be longer, but I've been pregnant forever so I'm getting a little forgetful. Besides, there are some things I've tried that I'm just not proud of.

What Baby?

2007-07-19T15:35:00.001-05:00

Baby Dunnaway is officially 5 days overdue today and apparently he's extremely cozy, comfortable, and content to remain inside my uterus until he moves away to college. That's why I'm starting this blog. I'm running out of stuff to do. I've changed the clothes in my hospital bag so many times that there is a good possibility that none of the items I'll be wearing home match each other or the season. There's a strong possibility that I will open up my bag at the hospital to find 6 pairs of socks, one flannel sweater, a nursing bra and a pair of pink underpants. That's right folks, I'll be wearing pink underpants home from the hospital and no jeans. Now, that'll be something to blog about.

Side Note: Jeans are a really touchy issue with me right now. I'm to the point where I fantasize about being able to wear real jeans again. I miss my butt. I know it's back there somewhere.