I am such a slacker! I often think of things to blog about and then never have the time to do it. So, I'm sitting at the hospital on call, with nothing profound to say to save my life, but I decided I simply Must Blog.
Things are going well here, just incredibly busy. Annabel is changing so much each day. She is reaching for things and cooing. I thought- Oh 3, no 4 months is the BEST, now she's almost 5 months and I think No, this is the best! Really, each day gets better and better. My heart is so full of love and happiness when I see or think of her that I think it is going to explode. Being away from her for days at a time at work is very hard.
The Lord continues to bless and challenge me here in Spartanburg. As I have blogged about before, I often look ahead to the M-word and cringe. My lack of faith disgusts me sometimes. Then, I remember God's faithfulness and I rest in it.
The other day, I had a moment of doubt and fear while driving. My radio is broken in my car... it will randomly work for a few minutes a day, but mostly is "dead." During this moment, my radio was working and a song came on by Chris Tomlin called "I will Follow." Part of it says:
Where you go, I'll go
Where you stay, I'll stay
When you move, I'll move
I will follow you
Who you love, I'll love
How you serve I'll serve
If this life I lose, I will follow you
I will follow you
Follow Him we are doing, all the way to Memphis!
In other exciting news, we took a family trip to Miami to see the Va. Tech/Miami game. Annabel slept on the plane and smiled at everyone in Miami. She did NOT like when Wes dipped her little tushy in the ocean. Mommy quickly came to the rescue. Miami is a beautiful city but there is a lot of emphasis on wealth and beauty. I tasted fried plantains for the first time-- Yummy!! We are so thankful that Nana and Pops invited us along on this fun trip! Go Hokies!
Also, since I have last written, Wes' great grandmother passed away at the age of 102. Sweet Mama Sadie never got to meet Annabel, her great great granddaughter, but she had been saying for quite a while that she was ready for the Lord to take her home. She blessed so many people and was a wonderful person.
Finally, my husband GRADUATED on Monday. He is officially a doctor (of physical therapy). I'm so excited for him. He has worked so hard and is an excellent physical therapist! Thank you Lord for helping Wes find a field he loves doing and is great at! He will take his boards in January then start working! I'm just glad we'll be living off more than love in a couple months!
Merry Christmas from the Laniers to all my beautiful friends and blog readers! I hope to hear from you soon!
Saturday, December 18, 2010
Saturday, October 16, 2010
Diet Day... Done
Well, I need to update you on the low carb diet. The first 6 or 7 days were really really bad for me. I absolutely get a high eating carbs. To not eat carbs is complete torture. If I weren't doing it with Cathy, it wouldn't have gotten done. To make matters worse, I didn't lose a single pound for the first week either. But I was determined to stick with it. That's the bad news.
The good news is, after the first week, things got easier somehow. I stopped craving carbs and when I weighed again at 2 weeks, I had lost 5 pounds! The biggest lesson I learned from this experiment is that I can CONTROL myself. I can go to Fatz and not eat the poppyseed biscuits and honey butter. I can go to Wades and not get sweet potato casserole. I can even do those things while around others who are doing it!
When I feel like snacking (which isn't very often now), I don't reach for the cheezits or peanut butter and jelly anymore. I'm perfectly satisfied with jello or cheese sticks or egg salad or chicken salad on celery. If I hadn't lost a pound these last few weeks, I would still consider it a success because of the self-control I learned.
So what now? Well, even though I'm almost down to my "normal" weight, my clothes still don't fit! It's sad but true that when you have a baby, "you're body changes." My pants don't fit in the hips anymore. I have added some carbs back in the diet, mainly fruit. There are still good carbs and bad carbs, and I will probably avoid the bad carbs most always. I just don't have to have that bag of chips. Eating a high protein, low carb lunch also eliminates that mid afternoon "crash" so I will definitely keep doing that. I am going to stick to a "low-ish" carb lifestyle and see how it goes.
I highly recommend this diet for anyone who is a big-time carb craver (and subsequent eater). You will challenge yourself in ways you never thought possible. But don't try it alone! Like most things, accountability and support is crucial! There are a lot of great low-carb recipes online. One of the best things about this kind of diet is you NEVER go hungry! Let me know how it goes!
The good news is, after the first week, things got easier somehow. I stopped craving carbs and when I weighed again at 2 weeks, I had lost 5 pounds! The biggest lesson I learned from this experiment is that I can CONTROL myself. I can go to Fatz and not eat the poppyseed biscuits and honey butter. I can go to Wades and not get sweet potato casserole. I can even do those things while around others who are doing it!
When I feel like snacking (which isn't very often now), I don't reach for the cheezits or peanut butter and jelly anymore. I'm perfectly satisfied with jello or cheese sticks or egg salad or chicken salad on celery. If I hadn't lost a pound these last few weeks, I would still consider it a success because of the self-control I learned.
So what now? Well, even though I'm almost down to my "normal" weight, my clothes still don't fit! It's sad but true that when you have a baby, "you're body changes." My pants don't fit in the hips anymore. I have added some carbs back in the diet, mainly fruit. There are still good carbs and bad carbs, and I will probably avoid the bad carbs most always. I just don't have to have that bag of chips. Eating a high protein, low carb lunch also eliminates that mid afternoon "crash" so I will definitely keep doing that. I am going to stick to a "low-ish" carb lifestyle and see how it goes.
I highly recommend this diet for anyone who is a big-time carb craver (and subsequent eater). You will challenge yourself in ways you never thought possible. But don't try it alone! Like most things, accountability and support is crucial! There are a lot of great low-carb recipes online. One of the best things about this kind of diet is you NEVER go hungry! Let me know how it goes!
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Diet Day 2
Should be sleeping since I'm on call tomorrow... diet day 2 was better than day one. Did eggs for bfast, salad lunch, stir fry dinner. Snacked on bacon, egg salad, beef jerkey and bell peppers. I miss carbs though :( Normally I would be snacking on salty carbs to comfort myself while I think about wards starting. Yummy salty french fries... aigh I can only dream about you for now.
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Diet Day 1
Today I started the DIET. For weeks I have been thinking about it, trying to cut back, overeating then feeling guilty and mad at myself, not eating and being starved half to death... its been a vicious cycle. I've been obsessing about it but not really accomplishing anything. If that makes sense. So, last night at dinner, my mother-in-law, Cathy and I decided we were going to do it. The four letter word-- DIET.
I know it's best to adopt a healthy lifestyle versus dieting, but we needed to jumpstart the situation. So I'm going low to no carb for the next 2 weeks. I have never been able to diet or workout without a partner doing it with me, so I'm glad Cathy is willing.
It has been so hard, already. For breakfast I had eggs and sausage. For lunch I had a salad. All I have thought about all day is food. I'm so frustrated already and don't know if I can keep going. Also, I feel like there is no way it is going to work. But, I have to try. If I do lose this weight, I know how happy I will be and that is what's keeping me going for now. Only 324 more hours to go.
Has anyone else ever dieted? For those who love and live for food, you can appreciate how hard it is I'm sure! I'll keep you posted!
I know it's best to adopt a healthy lifestyle versus dieting, but we needed to jumpstart the situation. So I'm going low to no carb for the next 2 weeks. I have never been able to diet or workout without a partner doing it with me, so I'm glad Cathy is willing.
It has been so hard, already. For breakfast I had eggs and sausage. For lunch I had a salad. All I have thought about all day is food. I'm so frustrated already and don't know if I can keep going. Also, I feel like there is no way it is going to work. But, I have to try. If I do lose this weight, I know how happy I will be and that is what's keeping me going for now. Only 324 more hours to go.
Has anyone else ever dieted? For those who love and live for food, you can appreciate how hard it is I'm sure! I'll keep you posted!
Thursday, September 23, 2010
The best and worst month
October is rapidly approaching, fortunately and unfortunately. I start my first month of wards in October, which means I'll be working in the hospital, 80+ hours a week, sometimes 30 hours at a time. Actually, my first day of work I'm on call, so I will get there super early in the morning and work all day and night, then get home around 1pm the next day. I went back to work after a few weeks postpartum, but that was to an elective which was pretty easy hours. The start of October is going to feel more like returning to work and I'm worried about the fatigue, keeping up pumping, and mostly, being away from my baby that long. I would appreciate your prayers for this tough transition!
October is my favorite month, though! I love fall and it's my birthday month and Wes'. The weather is great, the leaves are changing, and fall clothes are the bomb. I went shopping the other day to get said fall clothes because I'm still carrying about 10 pesky extra pounds and I just can't keep wearing my maternity pants. They are saggy in the behind and the belly part won't stay up! I'm one size up from my original.
I went to Haywood, alone, and went to town. I was seriously sweating, running around because it was 3pm on a Sunday, and the mall closed at 6. I decided on the way there what I would need and made a plan. Basics. Something I can wear to work/church/meetings at the same time. I also made a plan for shoes bc the feet are still too big. My friend Laura recommended croc flats-- comfortable, cheap, and acceptable in the hospital setting as normal shoes. AND they come in 11! Belk was having a huge sale and I took so many clothes to the dressing room that I couldn't see above them.
I wanted to embrace my new body and stop putting myself down about it. I have a beautiful 8 week old and if that means carrying extra weight, its worth it you know? The new me is a lot curvier and my stomach is still flabby. But I found some sheath dresses that are good, and best of all, JEGGINGS. They look like skinny jeans but they are flattering (I think).
So, I'm ready, but not ready at the same time, to start wards. At least I will look the part!
To update you- the domperidone did help! We are still trucking along.
October is my favorite month, though! I love fall and it's my birthday month and Wes'. The weather is great, the leaves are changing, and fall clothes are the bomb. I went shopping the other day to get said fall clothes because I'm still carrying about 10 pesky extra pounds and I just can't keep wearing my maternity pants. They are saggy in the behind and the belly part won't stay up! I'm one size up from my original.
I went to Haywood, alone, and went to town. I was seriously sweating, running around because it was 3pm on a Sunday, and the mall closed at 6. I decided on the way there what I would need and made a plan. Basics. Something I can wear to work/church/meetings at the same time. I also made a plan for shoes bc the feet are still too big. My friend Laura recommended croc flats-- comfortable, cheap, and acceptable in the hospital setting as normal shoes. AND they come in 11! Belk was having a huge sale and I took so many clothes to the dressing room that I couldn't see above them.
I wanted to embrace my new body and stop putting myself down about it. I have a beautiful 8 week old and if that means carrying extra weight, its worth it you know? The new me is a lot curvier and my stomach is still flabby. But I found some sheath dresses that are good, and best of all, JEGGINGS. They look like skinny jeans but they are flattering (I think).
So, I'm ready, but not ready at the same time, to start wards. At least I will look the part!
To update you- the domperidone did help! We are still trucking along.
Saturday, September 18, 2010
Memphis
Lately, at the hospital, I've been asked, "where are you going for radiology?" And when I answer Memphis, I've gotten the same response every single time: "oh, are you from Memphis?" Do I have to be from Memphis to want to do residency there?
It's getting on my nerves for several reasons. Memphis is far away and it's a strange city with a high crime rate that I'm taking my baby to, away from her loving grandparents and our friends. I only know a couple of people there and I've never spent more than a few hours outside of the hospital. YES, that is all very intimidating. I don't need to be reminded of that every time someone asks me about my residency, and I know that's what they are thinking when they ask me if I'm from there. Also, most people have never even been to Memphis and they are going by what they have heard. They don't stop to ask me what hospital, what section of Memphis, or WHY I chose that program. They may even assume that it was not my first choice of residencies.
If they did ask me Why, here is the answer. I didn't want to interview there, because I, too, thought it would be a terrible place to live. I interviewed there because they were the first program who offered me an interview and I bought the plane ticket immediately. After a few hours into the interview, I was 90% sure that this was the program for me. I loved the people and the area very much. I truly felt God was telling me "this is it." I even called Wes while I was on a break and said "I love it! What do you think about moving to Memphis?" He said, "Sure!" I kept in touch with some residents, flew up there for a second look a few months later, and I just knew. And btw, its in a beautiful section of Memphis.
There are days when I still doubt my decision, mainly because I'm terrified to be so far away from our family and friends. What if something happens? We can't just get in our car and drive home. And, everyone is going to miss Annabel so much. Who will help us up there? I've lost more than a few hours of sleep worrying about it. But you know what? God is so good. He called me to this place and this program. He loves me enough to have a plan for my life that is bigger and better than anything I could plan. Early on, I was sure I would end up at UNC... it made so much sense, was so close to Spartanburg. But Memphis is where we belong. I don't know why yet, but I'm excited to find out. I hope you will be excited with me.
It's getting on my nerves for several reasons. Memphis is far away and it's a strange city with a high crime rate that I'm taking my baby to, away from her loving grandparents and our friends. I only know a couple of people there and I've never spent more than a few hours outside of the hospital. YES, that is all very intimidating. I don't need to be reminded of that every time someone asks me about my residency, and I know that's what they are thinking when they ask me if I'm from there. Also, most people have never even been to Memphis and they are going by what they have heard. They don't stop to ask me what hospital, what section of Memphis, or WHY I chose that program. They may even assume that it was not my first choice of residencies.
If they did ask me Why, here is the answer. I didn't want to interview there, because I, too, thought it would be a terrible place to live. I interviewed there because they were the first program who offered me an interview and I bought the plane ticket immediately. After a few hours into the interview, I was 90% sure that this was the program for me. I loved the people and the area very much. I truly felt God was telling me "this is it." I even called Wes while I was on a break and said "I love it! What do you think about moving to Memphis?" He said, "Sure!" I kept in touch with some residents, flew up there for a second look a few months later, and I just knew. And btw, its in a beautiful section of Memphis.
There are days when I still doubt my decision, mainly because I'm terrified to be so far away from our family and friends. What if something happens? We can't just get in our car and drive home. And, everyone is going to miss Annabel so much. Who will help us up there? I've lost more than a few hours of sleep worrying about it. But you know what? God is so good. He called me to this place and this program. He loves me enough to have a plan for my life that is bigger and better than anything I could plan. Early on, I was sure I would end up at UNC... it made so much sense, was so close to Spartanburg. But Memphis is where we belong. I don't know why yet, but I'm excited to find out. I hope you will be excited with me.
Monday, September 6, 2010
Dom do dom dom
According to usps tracking, my domperidone has arrived in New York, all the way from Vanuatu. If you don't know where Vanuatu is, don't worry, I didn't either. It's an island nation west of Fiji. I wikipedia'd it and learned all about the culture, religion, climate, etc. I knew I would feel better taking medicine from a country once I learned more about it. And I do. After all, 1/3 of the country is Presbyterian.
I'm too excited about it getting here, because hopefully it will help me be able to store all kinds of milk for Annabel in case I can't keep up pumping once I start working wards in October. At least once a day, I think "I can't do this anymore" so yesterday I found this article about 100 reasons to breastfeed and it kept me going another day.
Tonight is the Va Tech/ Boise State game. We are so excited to get to see Andrew, Wes' brother, play! GO HOKIES!
Annabel is doing great. 6 weeks old almost! She has started reaching for her toys and focusing her eyes on your face when you are talking to her. She definitely loves her daddy! When he walks into a room and starts talking, she turns her head all around to find him. And I love that.
I'm too excited about it getting here, because hopefully it will help me be able to store all kinds of milk for Annabel in case I can't keep up pumping once I start working wards in October. At least once a day, I think "I can't do this anymore" so yesterday I found this article about 100 reasons to breastfeed and it kept me going another day.
Tonight is the Va Tech/ Boise State game. We are so excited to get to see Andrew, Wes' brother, play! GO HOKIES!
Annabel is doing great. 6 weeks old almost! She has started reaching for her toys and focusing her eyes on your face when you are talking to her. She definitely loves her daddy! When he walks into a room and starts talking, she turns her head all around to find him. And I love that.
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Update
I only have a second, but I just wanted to update you on the new me :) I told my hairdresser to give me a makeover, we picked out a picture from a magazine of Jessica Simpson with short hair, and he started cutting. He said "do you need to be able to do a ponytail" I said "Neh" and 5 inches later we arrived at, well, my haircut. I was determined not to do the typical "bob" which I've resorted to many times. I wanted something brand new, you know? So I have really short hair with a lot of layers, and the part I hate, bangs. I didn't remember her having short bangs in the pic... but oh well. They brush to the side, but don't tuck behind my ear yet so they constantly fall in my eye. Ergh. They are almost too short to pin back, but I have decided to wear the bobby pin with confidence, even if it is right behind my forehead. Once those grow out, it will be ok.
Working out... ah. I forgot how much I hate working out. I did go to the gym but didn't have much stamina. Maybe it is too soon? Then I read online that BF'ing moms shouldn't lose weight quickly because pesticides from your fat can be released into the breast milk. Yikes :( So at least I have an excuse to lose weight slooowly. I did weigh a bit less today though, so I think there is some natural weight loss going on still. I have 10 pounds to go, and I think I'm ok with that.
I'm still NOT ok with my foot growth. How did having a baby make my foot longer??? Do you know how hard it is to find cute shoes, size 11? Still not accepting it yet. Which means I'm still wearing the $10 flip flops I bought while pregnant every day. They are literally falling apart.
Finally, I have resorted to ordering prescription drugs from other countries to increase my milk supply. Before you go all "that's not safe how dare you do that while nursing my grandchild" Mom, you can go to this website. :) http://www.breastfeeding.org/articles/domperidone.html
Don't worry, I will still smell like the Waffle house.
Working out... ah. I forgot how much I hate working out. I did go to the gym but didn't have much stamina. Maybe it is too soon? Then I read online that BF'ing moms shouldn't lose weight quickly because pesticides from your fat can be released into the breast milk. Yikes :( So at least I have an excuse to lose weight slooowly. I did weigh a bit less today though, so I think there is some natural weight loss going on still. I have 10 pounds to go, and I think I'm ok with that.
I'm still NOT ok with my foot growth. How did having a baby make my foot longer??? Do you know how hard it is to find cute shoes, size 11? Still not accepting it yet. Which means I'm still wearing the $10 flip flops I bought while pregnant every day. They are literally falling apart.
Finally, I have resorted to ordering prescription drugs from other countries to increase my milk supply. Before you go all "that's not safe how dare you do that while nursing my grandchild" Mom, you can go to this website. :) http://www.breastfeeding.org/articles/domperidone.html
Don't worry, I will still smell like the Waffle house.
Monday, August 23, 2010
Preview of photo shoot
A few weeks ago, aunt Jeslyn came and took pictures of Annabel. My mother, inspired by photographers' photos online, brought over a car full of "props" so some of these photos are OVER THE TOP! I love it and its so characteristic of my mom to go all out... haha. We actually made it through all of the naked baby photos without any accidents!
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A 'New' Mom
Annabel turns 1 month old Wednesday... so crazy how fast time goes by! The first week of her life, I was living on adrenaline. The second week, fatigue set in and it was a fog. By week 3, I was quasi-regaining control of my thoughts, time, emotions, etc and now that week 4 is here, I am ready for a makeover. Ha!
I decided a year ago that I wanted Kim/Kourtney/Khloe Kardashian hair. Yes I watch their shows and no I'm not ashamed. Even my husband can tell them apart by now. (And, yes I am going to Dash when we go to Miami in November) So I started letting it grow out. Except it took forever and didn't have a style and now its just long and matted looking. I don't have time to style it and long hair takes time... unless you do a ponytail which is the only way you will ever see me wear it. It takes an hour to wash, dry and straighten, and I just don't have that kind of time. (Who does, seriously?)
So, I made the appt to have it cut tomorrow. Also, I have played the "the first x pounds melted off, I bet these last 15 will too" game and I lost. These last 15 are just hanging out. It was great the first few weeks... getting on the scale and it always being less and less! Now, its pretty much stuck on the same number, which is higher than I've ever weighed. Mainly, I want to be back in my regular clothes because maternity clothes STINK. And, I still can't wear my regular shoes :( I'm not ready to talk about that yet because I think the increased foot size may be permanent and I'm not ready to accept that I may never be able to wear any of my shoes ever again.
Today I hit the gym and worked out. Slowly but surely, I hope I can lose it. The dilemma is that when you are b'feeding, you are supposed to increase your calories, so I'm in a conundrum. Anyway, I hope to be debuting the new and improved me soon :) Speaking of delicious food, I am making a chicken divan tonight, while wearing my sweet baby in a homemade moby wrap! I love this thing.
I decided a year ago that I wanted Kim/Kourtney/Khloe Kardashian hair. Yes I watch their shows and no I'm not ashamed. Even my husband can tell them apart by now. (And, yes I am going to Dash when we go to Miami in November) So I started letting it grow out. Except it took forever and didn't have a style and now its just long and matted looking. I don't have time to style it and long hair takes time... unless you do a ponytail which is the only way you will ever see me wear it. It takes an hour to wash, dry and straighten, and I just don't have that kind of time. (Who does, seriously?)
So, I made the appt to have it cut tomorrow. Also, I have played the "the first x pounds melted off, I bet these last 15 will too" game and I lost. These last 15 are just hanging out. It was great the first few weeks... getting on the scale and it always being less and less! Now, its pretty much stuck on the same number, which is higher than I've ever weighed. Mainly, I want to be back in my regular clothes because maternity clothes STINK. And, I still can't wear my regular shoes :( I'm not ready to talk about that yet because I think the increased foot size may be permanent and I'm not ready to accept that I may never be able to wear any of my shoes ever again.
Today I hit the gym and worked out. Slowly but surely, I hope I can lose it. The dilemma is that when you are b'feeding, you are supposed to increase your calories, so I'm in a conundrum. Anyway, I hope to be debuting the new and improved me soon :) Speaking of delicious food, I am making a chicken divan tonight, while wearing my sweet baby in a homemade moby wrap! I love this thing.
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Pump, pump it up
It's funny how things change when you have a new baby in the house. I knew things would be different, but it's hard to anticipate how. I have started back to work and it is quite a challenge to get myself presentable to be at work by 9, which probably doesn't even seem early to most of you. But between feeding and pumping, I don't know where the time goes. On my way to work yesterday, I congratulated myself for feeding Anna b, straightening the front part of my hair, and getting foundation on before I had to run out the door. So what if I forgot blush and lipstick and didn't have time for the bird's nest that was the back of my hair... people only see the front and at least my breakouts were covered. Success.
I never thought my life would revolve around a breastpump, but that is the case. Breastfeeding is really hard and I tip my hat to anyone who can continue it after going back to work. I decided that if I were going to attempt it, I would need a fancy pump. I should explain that our norm had been her using me as a human pacifier for hours on end and still being hungry 30 mins after she finished nursing. Certain parts get a little sore if you know what I mean. I had to buy extra, special parts for my special pump and it ended up costing more than Wes' car payment this month! I thought it would change our lives by helping me make all kinds of milk to feed her in a short amount of time. No more 3 hour feedings in the middle of the night!
BUT, that didn't happen and it turns out that a pump doesn't even get as much milk out of you as a baby can and your supply can dwindle once you switch to pumping. Ergh... What to do?? I researched online and found an herb called Fenugreek, which is supposed to increase a mom's milk supply. The only problem: it makes you smell like maple syrup. Seriously. It is what they use to flavor maple syrup. So, the next time you smell, I mean see, me, pretend not to notice because I'm really self conscious about it. Despite smelling like IHOP, I do think it's working for us. Another success.
That's about it. Unless you didn't hear enough about breastfeeding and pumping! Annabel weighs 8 lbs now! She's doing great. I'll be posting more pics soon.
I never thought my life would revolve around a breastpump, but that is the case. Breastfeeding is really hard and I tip my hat to anyone who can continue it after going back to work. I decided that if I were going to attempt it, I would need a fancy pump. I should explain that our norm had been her using me as a human pacifier for hours on end and still being hungry 30 mins after she finished nursing. Certain parts get a little sore if you know what I mean. I had to buy extra, special parts for my special pump and it ended up costing more than Wes' car payment this month! I thought it would change our lives by helping me make all kinds of milk to feed her in a short amount of time. No more 3 hour feedings in the middle of the night!
BUT, that didn't happen and it turns out that a pump doesn't even get as much milk out of you as a baby can and your supply can dwindle once you switch to pumping. Ergh... What to do?? I researched online and found an herb called Fenugreek, which is supposed to increase a mom's milk supply. The only problem: it makes you smell like maple syrup. Seriously. It is what they use to flavor maple syrup. So, the next time you smell, I mean see, me, pretend not to notice because I'm really self conscious about it. Despite smelling like IHOP, I do think it's working for us. Another success.
That's about it. Unless you didn't hear enough about breastfeeding and pumping! Annabel weighs 8 lbs now! She's doing great. I'll be posting more pics soon.
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Week 1 and hospital pics
I can't believe I have a 1 week old. I have been wanting to blog for days but I've been so overwhelmed with emotions that I didn't trust myself not to be a babbling brook on here. I will try to suffice it to say that there is absolutely no way to explain or even describe the love you feel for a child. (This is coming from someone who never thought I would love anything more than my dog-child, Abby.) I actually worried that I may not love Annabel as much as I love Abby at one point during the pregnancy...
Motherhood does bring a lot of unique challenges, unique in that every new mother experiences challenges but different ones. I have enjoyed talking with and praying for some friends and new moms, while cherishing their prayers for us. We definitely feel those while we are burning the midnight oil.
We've had lots of firsts this week: car ride, drs visit, walk in the stroller, bath. It's all so special and I'm trying not to go overboard posting pics to facebook. One of the best things has been watching Wes fall in love with Annabel. When I wake him in the middle of the night for help, he just smiles. A daddy's girl in the making, for sure.
Thank you all for your well wishes and prayers!
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
I had a baby!
Today, Annabel Drake Lanier was born at 12:46 pm. She weighed 7 lbs 1 oz and is 19 inches long. She is so precious and perfect! We are in love! She was a little over 2 weeks early, her due date being Aug 12. I blew my nose last night sitting in bed and my water broke, haha!! Wes and I stared at each other then jumped up and started acting crazy. I wasn't sure if it was water breaking or just other stuff. So we grabbed the bags I had just packed and went to the hospital. What I didn't know is that once your water "breaks," it continues to leak until you deliver your baby because your body constantly replenishes it!
The contractions started about an hour later and then they were intensified with a medicine. I tried to ride them out until they got really bad and asked for an epidural. I can't even describe everything that went wrong with the epidural from getting it to it "not taking." I never believed people when they would say that so I guess it was karma time. Anyway, it did not work for the contraction pains but right when it was time for her to come, they put another medicine in it and luckily I had some relief while I pushed. 3 pushes and this girl was here! She has a sweet little dimple on her chin and beautiful dark hair and skin. We aren't sure where she got that but we'll take it because she is GORGEOUS! We can't stop staring at this miracle from God.
She is breastfeeding well (knock on wood!) And speaking of that, I need to run. Thank you for all your prayers, support, and love. We'll keep you posted!
The contractions started about an hour later and then they were intensified with a medicine. I tried to ride them out until they got really bad and asked for an epidural. I can't even describe everything that went wrong with the epidural from getting it to it "not taking." I never believed people when they would say that so I guess it was karma time. Anyway, it did not work for the contraction pains but right when it was time for her to come, they put another medicine in it and luckily I had some relief while I pushed. 3 pushes and this girl was here! She has a sweet little dimple on her chin and beautiful dark hair and skin. We aren't sure where she got that but we'll take it because she is GORGEOUS! We can't stop staring at this miracle from God.
She is breastfeeding well (knock on wood!) And speaking of that, I need to run. Thank you for all your prayers, support, and love. We'll keep you posted!
Thursday, July 22, 2010
2 Weeks!
2 weeks to go!!!!!!!!! I'm so excited and ready! Tonight I'm going to pack a hospital bag... or 3. There's a lot of stuff on my list to bring. We are almost finished with her room. I'm trying to paint a canvas to go in there, and we have a few more things to get together. I've been so busy between work and getting ready for A's arrival that I have neglected all my wonderful friends who have called me this week and promise to call you back asap! We had a bit of a rough start to the week with your good ol' membrane stripping at my appt on Monday so it took a few days to recoup from that. (If you don't know what that is, consider yourself lucky) It did not bring on any contractions, but they are going to try it again on Monday.
For dinner, I am cooking meatloaf, mashed red potatoes, green bean casserole, and sauteed squash medley. If you aren't a big meatloaf fan, I get it. But this recipe is delicious, mainly for the topping (not your standard ketchup.) If you want it, let me know! Also, someone gave me the tip of using chicken broth instead of milk for the mashed potatoes. I have to say, YUM. Biggest difference ever! Try it!
Also, for an update on the salt-free life... I did stick with it, with very few exceptions. It's tomato season, come on people. The positive is that I realized food can taste good without salt, but my swelling did not actually go down much. So I still watch it, but do allow some exceptions. I think I've found a happy, and Healthy!, medium. Who cares if I'm swollen to the point of being essentially unrecognizable these days. I can take it for 2 more weeks!
For dinner, I am cooking meatloaf, mashed red potatoes, green bean casserole, and sauteed squash medley. If you aren't a big meatloaf fan, I get it. But this recipe is delicious, mainly for the topping (not your standard ketchup.) If you want it, let me know! Also, someone gave me the tip of using chicken broth instead of milk for the mashed potatoes. I have to say, YUM. Biggest difference ever! Try it!
Also, for an update on the salt-free life... I did stick with it, with very few exceptions. It's tomato season, come on people. The positive is that I realized food can taste good without salt, but my swelling did not actually go down much. So I still watch it, but do allow some exceptions. I think I've found a happy, and Healthy!, medium. Who cares if I'm swollen to the point of being essentially unrecognizable these days. I can take it for 2 more weeks!
Monday, July 12, 2010
Go July, Go!
Not too much to report for this post, I am just getting very anxious to meet this little one! I feel like there must be more hours in the day than there used to be, they pass so slowly! We got a good report from the doc today and only 3 and 1/2 weeks to go! I'm making a list of things I need to remember to take to the hospital. We only have a few things to buy before she gets here. My sweet friend Kelley in Memphis sent us a carrier yesterday which was so exciting- Thank You!!!!
Working on plastic surgery this rotation has been interesting. I have gotten to see the usual, botox, breast augmentation, face lifts etc, along with more serious, non-elective procedures. And to the amazement of everyone who knew me in med school, no passing out! Probably due to my increased (but still normal) blood pressure. Its funny when moms come in wanting things fixed because "having kids takes a toll on your body." No joke!
Working on plastic surgery this rotation has been interesting. I have gotten to see the usual, botox, breast augmentation, face lifts etc, along with more serious, non-elective procedures. And to the amazement of everyone who knew me in med school, no passing out! Probably due to my increased (but still normal) blood pressure. Its funny when moms come in wanting things fixed because "having kids takes a toll on your body." No joke!
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Hey Carlisle!
Holla Carlisle! I love my friends! Just found out I have another reader in Carlisle Baker one of my friends who lives in Bluffton. Hope you have a great day!
Baby L and I are doing well. She is about 34 weeks now, growing and kicking as usual. Compression socks plus my husbands strong hands are keeping the ankle swelling down. I went for a walk this morning with a new friend and resident, Charlotte. When I got home, I was feeling pretty good so I decided to weigh myself. Wes had to come in there with me to show me how to use his parent's complicated scale. The number wasn't good, but it was made so much worse when he got on after me and weighed 10 pounds less than I do. Dang endorphins. Why did I think I should get on the scale??
Actually, I'm looking forward so much to the baby that I don't really care about the weight anymore. (Read: In my head I think its all "water weight" and will quickly disappear after delivery) We get a free membership to a gym here and with the help of an amazing personal trainer, I know I'll get back to normal sometime! And if not, my wonderful friends will swear I look great and gush about how they can't believe I lost the weight. As any good friend should lie about that kind of thing! Because gosh knows my mother will tell me the truth... "well if I don't then who will?"
Some truths may be a little overrated, am I right?
Baby L and I are doing well. She is about 34 weeks now, growing and kicking as usual. Compression socks plus my husbands strong hands are keeping the ankle swelling down. I went for a walk this morning with a new friend and resident, Charlotte. When I got home, I was feeling pretty good so I decided to weigh myself. Wes had to come in there with me to show me how to use his parent's complicated scale. The number wasn't good, but it was made so much worse when he got on after me and weighed 10 pounds less than I do. Dang endorphins. Why did I think I should get on the scale??
Actually, I'm looking forward so much to the baby that I don't really care about the weight anymore. (Read: In my head I think its all "water weight" and will quickly disappear after delivery) We get a free membership to a gym here and with the help of an amazing personal trainer, I know I'll get back to normal sometime! And if not, my wonderful friends will swear I look great and gush about how they can't believe I lost the weight. As any good friend should lie about that kind of thing! Because gosh knows my mother will tell me the truth... "well if I don't then who will?"
Some truths may be a little overrated, am I right?
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Bless Her Heart
I started work this week... actual Dr. work. I wear a name tag that calls me Dr. Brandi Lanier. Weird! There are three residency programs at my hospital: Family Medicine, Surgery, and Transitional Year for people who will only be there a year and then are moving on, like me, to a subspecialty.
There are a lot of residents who are not from the south in the program. I was explaining to one of them the phrase "Bless her heart." Like, she got her daddy's big nose, bless her heart. Or, the one I get a lot, You're just all swollen up, bless your heart. After she and I talked about it that morning, the phrase had been said twice by lunch by our instructor. Let's face it: If you're going to talk bad about someone in the south, you always end it with a bless her heart.
One resident from the north thought it was funny that the security guard told us we couldn't carry concealed weapons on the hospital campus. He said they just didn't carry guns in the north like we did. Two of us (females) told him that we had shotguns if he ever wanted to go shoot!
Our baby turned 33 weeks old today. She weighs about 4.5 pounds and could be 19 inches long by now. She must be getting strong because she kicks so hard that it takes my breath away sometimes. In the same spot. All day long. I dreamed she had brown hair... but I wonder if it will be red??
A final note, but the most important one, is that God has answered a deeply personal and heart-wrenching prayer of mine. I knew God was in control of the situation but it had become so painful that I wasn't sure how or what to pray for specifically anymore. I just asked Him for a miracle that only He could provide. I stopped caring what the answer was, as long as God would provide one. It was similar in feeling to the time I found out my step father had cancer...the worrying, waiting and uncertainty were extremely difficult. So today I am praising God for what I truly believe is a miracle. If you have ever had a similar situation, I know you will praise Him with me.
There are a lot of residents who are not from the south in the program. I was explaining to one of them the phrase "Bless her heart." Like, she got her daddy's big nose, bless her heart. Or, the one I get a lot, You're just all swollen up, bless your heart. After she and I talked about it that morning, the phrase had been said twice by lunch by our instructor. Let's face it: If you're going to talk bad about someone in the south, you always end it with a bless her heart.
One resident from the north thought it was funny that the security guard told us we couldn't carry concealed weapons on the hospital campus. He said they just didn't carry guns in the north like we did. Two of us (females) told him that we had shotguns if he ever wanted to go shoot!
Our baby turned 33 weeks old today. She weighs about 4.5 pounds and could be 19 inches long by now. She must be getting strong because she kicks so hard that it takes my breath away sometimes. In the same spot. All day long. I dreamed she had brown hair... but I wonder if it will be red??
A final note, but the most important one, is that God has answered a deeply personal and heart-wrenching prayer of mine. I knew God was in control of the situation but it had become so painful that I wasn't sure how or what to pray for specifically anymore. I just asked Him for a miracle that only He could provide. I stopped caring what the answer was, as long as God would provide one. It was similar in feeling to the time I found out my step father had cancer...the worrying, waiting and uncertainty were extremely difficult. So today I am praising God for what I truly believe is a miracle. If you have ever had a similar situation, I know you will praise Him with me.
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
So long, salt
Wow, 30 weeks has come and gone quickly. The major development of this checkup was water retention. It went something like this: "Dr, do you think we can induce even earlier, maybe?" "At the rate you're swelling, we're going to have to." I see it as a silver lining... getting the baby even earlier. Just kidding... I ugly cried the whole way home. What have I DONE to get this swollen?
Anyone who knows me well knows that my first love is salt. I could give up sweets with no regrets, but not being able to salt the yummy pot roast my mother in law made yesterday is just wrong. Or eat pickles. My mouth just started watering thinking about it. So, the doctor said I should cut back and I'm on day 2 of not adding salt or eating salty things. The withdrawals aren't as bad as I thought they would be... I haven't died yet. I also haven't un-swelled yet...
But, he also said that "some people are just swellers." So bring on the compression stockings. Bring on the water bottles And the salt-free diet. I guess if I have to give up salt (sigh), there's no one else I'd rather do it for than a 3 pound cutie pie.
Anyone who knows me well knows that my first love is salt. I could give up sweets with no regrets, but not being able to salt the yummy pot roast my mother in law made yesterday is just wrong. Or eat pickles. My mouth just started watering thinking about it. So, the doctor said I should cut back and I'm on day 2 of not adding salt or eating salty things. The withdrawals aren't as bad as I thought they would be... I haven't died yet. I also haven't un-swelled yet...
But, he also said that "some people are just swellers." So bring on the compression stockings. Bring on the water bottles And the salt-free diet. I guess if I have to give up salt (sigh), there's no one else I'd rather do it for than a 3 pound cutie pie.
Monday, June 7, 2010
Litchfield
This past week, Wes and I went to Litchfield for the dual purpose of getting away one last time since "you're life will never be the same" and for Holly and Andrew's wedding. Holly was my roommate for our M1 year, and Andrew is also a new doctor. It was really great to spend some quality time with the hubby. We went to Creek Ratz the first night to eat and ran into a lot of friends from med school who were there with Holly and Andrew. It was such a fun coincidence!
Because I have started retaining water like the Hoover dam, I was trying to stick to salads during the week. (Ok, well I did bring some cheezits because I'm a huge salt-a-holic.) So I kept thinking, gosh I can't believe we are at the beach and I'm not getting seafood. We went to a really good restaurant and I actually ordered fried shrimp and flounder, then changed my mind to grilled salmon and zucchini. It was good... I guess. But I kept talking about oysters and crab legs all night.
Saturday was the wedding. It was so beautiful at a church on the water in Murrell's Inlet. Then the reception was at Wachesaw plantation, on the water. Gorgeous, just like Holly! For about an hour and a half, there was a cocktail hour. The food was covered, and since I couldn't drink, I was naturally curious about what was under those white linens. Ok, let's face it, I would have been just as curious if I had been drinking. I love wedding food. There's a little bit of everything, you know?
There was an ice sculpture that clearly was going to have shrimp cocktail under it. Yes, finally some seafood! When the chefs opened up the tables, would you believe that not only were they serving shrimp cocktail, but they also had crab legs (already cracked and peeled) and oysters?? And shrimp and grits. I hope we go to a lot more weddings on the coast.
It was, of course, just as great to see all my doctor friends one last time and to see some friends from college! Mostly, I got "Wow, look how big you are!" Yes, yes I am, thank you.
And, another great thing was that Wes let me buy a yellow boat to play with in the ocean. I'm pretty scared of the ocean (well, all the things that live in it), so I don't really get in past my knees. But I knew with this boat, a lot of things were possible. When he was blowing it up, he noticed that the weight limit was 120 lbs. I asked him why he was laughing, and he finally told me. He shouldn't have told me why he was laughing. That's an example of when you can lie to me Wes.
I think he was embarrassed carrying it down to the ocean since we clearly did not have kids. But we (I) had a lot of fun with that thing... out where the big waves are! It totally held me by the way.
I couldn't help but think... the next time we are at the beach, Annabel will be here with us! The next time we see these friends, they can meet her too! And maybe my ankles will be a normal size by then :) I bet she'll like the yellow boat, too!
Assuming the position...
to get rid of these...
Blowing up my boat
Super excited about it
On our way out to eat
After the wedding at the church
Our view
Our Rolls. Just kidding. Holly and Andrew's getaway car.
Wes at Wachesaw
The gorgeous cake
Because I have started retaining water like the Hoover dam, I was trying to stick to salads during the week. (Ok, well I did bring some cheezits because I'm a huge salt-a-holic.) So I kept thinking, gosh I can't believe we are at the beach and I'm not getting seafood. We went to a really good restaurant and I actually ordered fried shrimp and flounder, then changed my mind to grilled salmon and zucchini. It was good... I guess. But I kept talking about oysters and crab legs all night.
Saturday was the wedding. It was so beautiful at a church on the water in Murrell's Inlet. Then the reception was at Wachesaw plantation, on the water. Gorgeous, just like Holly! For about an hour and a half, there was a cocktail hour. The food was covered, and since I couldn't drink, I was naturally curious about what was under those white linens. Ok, let's face it, I would have been just as curious if I had been drinking. I love wedding food. There's a little bit of everything, you know?
There was an ice sculpture that clearly was going to have shrimp cocktail under it. Yes, finally some seafood! When the chefs opened up the tables, would you believe that not only were they serving shrimp cocktail, but they also had crab legs (already cracked and peeled) and oysters?? And shrimp and grits. I hope we go to a lot more weddings on the coast.
It was, of course, just as great to see all my doctor friends one last time and to see some friends from college! Mostly, I got "Wow, look how big you are!" Yes, yes I am, thank you.
And, another great thing was that Wes let me buy a yellow boat to play with in the ocean. I'm pretty scared of the ocean (well, all the things that live in it), so I don't really get in past my knees. But I knew with this boat, a lot of things were possible. When he was blowing it up, he noticed that the weight limit was 120 lbs. I asked him why he was laughing, and he finally told me. He shouldn't have told me why he was laughing. That's an example of when you can lie to me Wes.
I think he was embarrassed carrying it down to the ocean since we clearly did not have kids. But we (I) had a lot of fun with that thing... out where the big waves are! It totally held me by the way.
I couldn't help but think... the next time we are at the beach, Annabel will be here with us! The next time we see these friends, they can meet her too! And maybe my ankles will be a normal size by then :) I bet she'll like the yellow boat, too!
Assuming the position...
to get rid of these...
Blowing up my boat
Super excited about it
On our way out to eat
After the wedding at the church
Our view
Our Rolls. Just kidding. Holly and Andrew's getaway car.
Wes at Wachesaw
The gorgeous cake
Saturday, May 29, 2010
Fish
Wes and I are trying to eat more fish, since its lean and has a lot of good cholesterol, but there are only so many ways to make fish appetizing to me. Not when I could have a juicy steak, you know? But, I have made it a point to serve fish once a week in our house for the past couple of months. Some of the classics are teriyaki salmon, tuna steak, and some kind of marinated mahi.
This week I made chicken piccata on Monday and had to buy a few random ingredients that I wasn't sure I would use again. So, I looked for a fish marinade that would use some of those same things. That is how I discovered this recipe for Tilapia. Tilapia is really mild and cheap, but this is the best fish recipe I have ever cooked!
It looks like it has a lot of ingredients which always scares me away from recipes. (If I have to buy a lot of things, its not cheap anymore and we might as well go out to eat.) The gist is this: you coat the tilapia with mayo (it doesn't take much and you can't taste the mayo at the end). Then you sprinkle an assortment of spices on it. If you don't have all of them, its ok! Then you fry it in a pan. I served it with brown rice and green beans.
There's a part at the end where you add white wine, butter, capers, etc. I did this, but you don't have to. It just makes a sauce to pour over the fish.
http://homecooking.about.com/od/fishrecipes/r/blfish31.htm
So try it and let me know what you think!
This week I made chicken piccata on Monday and had to buy a few random ingredients that I wasn't sure I would use again. So, I looked for a fish marinade that would use some of those same things. That is how I discovered this recipe for Tilapia. Tilapia is really mild and cheap, but this is the best fish recipe I have ever cooked!
It looks like it has a lot of ingredients which always scares me away from recipes. (If I have to buy a lot of things, its not cheap anymore and we might as well go out to eat.) The gist is this: you coat the tilapia with mayo (it doesn't take much and you can't taste the mayo at the end). Then you sprinkle an assortment of spices on it. If you don't have all of them, its ok! Then you fry it in a pan. I served it with brown rice and green beans.
There's a part at the end where you add white wine, butter, capers, etc. I did this, but you don't have to. It just makes a sauce to pour over the fish.
http://homecooking.about.com/od/fishrecipes/r/blfish31.htm
So try it and let me know what you think!
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Friends
So the past couple of weeks have been kind of boring, I have to admit. I'm SO thankful for the rest I am getting, but with Wes in school and most of my friends and family not close, it has been boring. I know in a few months I will be longing for these carefree days though!
The GREAT thing that has come from the past month or so is that I have gotten to catch up with several friends in my life who I haven't talked to in ages! A few have been via long emails, some by meeting in person, others by phone. Carlson let me pick the restaurant that served fried catfish because I was craving it and Laura met me for Mexican even though she had already eaten there the day before :) Katie talked to me even though she was sleep deprived from being up all night at work and Amber risked missing LOST to talk to me. Lindzey will randomly call and we can immediately talk about the most personal things on earth even though I haven't seen her in forever! Sallie Ruth is really busy being a doctor and she talked to me for an hour today over her lunch break. Erin is also super busy being a doctor but always responds to my emails within a few hours and makes me smile. Suzanne lets me wake her up from naps to walk for an hour in the blazing sun and ask her a thousand questions about getting induced (she's a labor and delivery nurse). Barbara wrote a blog about me, really special. I actually have time to read blogs now and hers always makes me smile.
On Saturday, I FINALLY got to meet my cousin Lindsay's fiance, Nic, at a couple's shower. They have been dating for years. He's really cute and I can tell they are so good for each other! That same day, I got to stop by and see sweet Emily for awhile! She got to feel A kick! Then, on Monday, I had my first junior league meeting. Just there, I ran into several girls I had known in the past, and it was great to catch up with them!
This list isn't exhaustive of all the great friends in my life, just a hint of the recent past. It hasn't been very long ago where the thought of driving out of town for the weekend for a shower would have been nearly impossible because of school work. Talking on the phone for an entire HOUR to a friend would have been laughable. And, signing up for volunteer work couldn't have been further from my mind. Now that I have graduated, I realize how much I probably missed in all my friends' lives, though I tried my best while in school. They were always so supportive, and never once made me feel guilty for missing out. i.e. My friend Carlisle had a ton of fun showers and parties while she was engaged and I could only come to one. She was so amazing about it!
As quickly as this relaxing period has come, I suspect it will be gone come August, at least for a little while. But, in the meantime, I cherish the time I have to catch up with friends and family, but most of all, I thank God for ALL the wonderful people in my life. Thank you for sticking with me through these past 4 years!
The GREAT thing that has come from the past month or so is that I have gotten to catch up with several friends in my life who I haven't talked to in ages! A few have been via long emails, some by meeting in person, others by phone. Carlson let me pick the restaurant that served fried catfish because I was craving it and Laura met me for Mexican even though she had already eaten there the day before :) Katie talked to me even though she was sleep deprived from being up all night at work and Amber risked missing LOST to talk to me. Lindzey will randomly call and we can immediately talk about the most personal things on earth even though I haven't seen her in forever! Sallie Ruth is really busy being a doctor and she talked to me for an hour today over her lunch break. Erin is also super busy being a doctor but always responds to my emails within a few hours and makes me smile. Suzanne lets me wake her up from naps to walk for an hour in the blazing sun and ask her a thousand questions about getting induced (she's a labor and delivery nurse). Barbara wrote a blog about me, really special. I actually have time to read blogs now and hers always makes me smile.
On Saturday, I FINALLY got to meet my cousin Lindsay's fiance, Nic, at a couple's shower. They have been dating for years. He's really cute and I can tell they are so good for each other! That same day, I got to stop by and see sweet Emily for awhile! She got to feel A kick! Then, on Monday, I had my first junior league meeting. Just there, I ran into several girls I had known in the past, and it was great to catch up with them!
This list isn't exhaustive of all the great friends in my life, just a hint of the recent past. It hasn't been very long ago where the thought of driving out of town for the weekend for a shower would have been nearly impossible because of school work. Talking on the phone for an entire HOUR to a friend would have been laughable. And, signing up for volunteer work couldn't have been further from my mind. Now that I have graduated, I realize how much I probably missed in all my friends' lives, though I tried my best while in school. They were always so supportive, and never once made me feel guilty for missing out. i.e. My friend Carlisle had a ton of fun showers and parties while she was engaged and I could only come to one. She was so amazing about it!
As quickly as this relaxing period has come, I suspect it will be gone come August, at least for a little while. But, in the meantime, I cherish the time I have to catch up with friends and family, but most of all, I thank God for ALL the wonderful people in my life. Thank you for sticking with me through these past 4 years!
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Cool Strawberry Pie
Cool And EASY Strawberry Pie
Ingredients
2/3 cup boiling water
1 pkg. (4-serving size) JELL-O Brand Strawberry Flavor Gelatin
Ice cubes
1/2 cup cold water
1 tub (8 oz.) COOL WHIP LITE Whipped Topping, thawed
1 cup chopped fresh strawberries
1 ready-to-use reduced fat graham cracker crumb crust (6 oz.)
1 cup sliced strawberries
Directions
STIR
boiling water into gelatin in large bowl at least 2 min. until completely dissolved. Add enough ice to cold water to measure 1 cup. Add to gelatin; stir until slightly thickened. Remove any unmelted ice.
ADD
whipped topping; stir with wire whisk until well blended. Stir in chopped strawberries. Refrigerate 20 to 30 min. or until mixture is very thick and will mound. Spoon into crust.
REFRIGERATE
6 hours or overnight until firm. Top with sliced strawberries. Store leftover pie in refrigerator.
Ingredients
2/3 cup boiling water
1 pkg. (4-serving size) JELL-O Brand Strawberry Flavor Gelatin
Ice cubes
1/2 cup cold water
1 tub (8 oz.) COOL WHIP LITE Whipped Topping, thawed
1 cup chopped fresh strawberries
1 ready-to-use reduced fat graham cracker crumb crust (6 oz.)
1 cup sliced strawberries
Directions
STIR
boiling water into gelatin in large bowl at least 2 min. until completely dissolved. Add enough ice to cold water to measure 1 cup. Add to gelatin; stir until slightly thickened. Remove any unmelted ice.
ADD
whipped topping; stir with wire whisk until well blended. Stir in chopped strawberries. Refrigerate 20 to 30 min. or until mixture is very thick and will mound. Spoon into crust.
REFRIGERATE
6 hours or overnight until firm. Top with sliced strawberries. Store leftover pie in refrigerator.
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Devine Chicken Divan
Tonight I made chicken divan, which is basically a broccoli/chicken/cheese casserole, from the recipe on the back of a can of cream of broccoli and cheese. It was SO easy and when it came out of the oven, I was so excited to eat it that I couldn't stand it. I am not a great cook, but I do try to cook often. The result is that we don't eat a lot of really good meals. Many of them are just "good-enough." And, my husband never complains. Like, NEVER. He has stomached some pretty gross things in our 3 years of marriage.
So I happily place his plate before him, steaming with broccoli and melting cheese and start eating with the fervor of someone who hasn't seen food in 3 days. He asks nicely, "Do you think there's any part of this that won't taste like broccoli?"
Huh? I mumble between bites. Oh... shoot. I completely forgot that Wes hates broccoli. That means I get to eat the whole casserole... It was a fleeting thought, don't judge. I did feel really bad as I watched him shuffle the broccoli around the chicken and do his best with it. I offered to cook him something else, ANYTHING else. But he declined. So, naturally, I had to eat the rest of the casserole since its the last time I'll ever get to make it.
In summary, I highly recommend the casserole. The only alterations I suggest are 1) use 3 chicken breasts that you have cut into cubes and boiled, instead of the canned chicken they recommend. 2) Add a little diced onion... which I didn't do because Wes doesn't like onion...
So I happily place his plate before him, steaming with broccoli and melting cheese and start eating with the fervor of someone who hasn't seen food in 3 days. He asks nicely, "Do you think there's any part of this that won't taste like broccoli?"
Huh? I mumble between bites. Oh... shoot. I completely forgot that Wes hates broccoli. That means I get to eat the whole casserole... It was a fleeting thought, don't judge. I did feel really bad as I watched him shuffle the broccoli around the chicken and do his best with it. I offered to cook him something else, ANYTHING else. But he declined. So, naturally, I had to eat the rest of the casserole since its the last time I'll ever get to make it.
In summary, I highly recommend the casserole. The only alterations I suggest are 1) use 3 chicken breasts that you have cut into cubes and boiled, instead of the canned chicken they recommend. 2) Add a little diced onion... which I didn't do because Wes doesn't like onion...
28 weeks
Today my sweet little girl is 28 weeks old! I can't believe it. It feels like only yesterday I was getting faint in the bathroom reading the pregnancy test! The second trimester was amazing... I felt so good and got to buy maternity clothes, we found out it was a girl and she started to kick. The third trimester is good, too, but in different ways. Then there are a few things that aren't so fun. My ligaments have started to loosen (which is normal) so sometimes when I walk, my hip kind of "goes out." I've also gained a LOT of weight and had to stop wearing my wedding rings after I woke up in the middle of the night to a throbbing swollen finger! And now, she kicks hard. None of those things really matter though and just let me know that the day is quickly approaching!
Speaking of "the DAY"... at my 28 wk visit, the Dr. schedule me for an induction on Aug. 5, which is a week early (39 weeks). Also, I BARELY passed the glucola test which checks your blood glucose level. Yikes, I probably should cut back on the sweets. I don't think icy pops really count though.
I decided to start doing some reading and preparing for her arrival this week. There are a LOT of books telling you how to be a good parent. I am planning on reading several to get different opinions, but yesterday I read Babywise. It is about getting your child on a feed, wake, sleep cycle which is crucial since I can only take a couple of weeks off work. But, the first chapter is about preserving your relationship with your spouse through the stress of a baby. I liked it and it felt good to start getting prepared for her arrival. Later that night though, I started worrying like crazy... what if she doesn't get on a good schedule, what if I can't breastfeed, what if we are clueless parents and don't do it right, what if what if what if. I've never been so excited about something and felt so unprepared in my life!
Luckily my husband is amazingly calm and talked me out of my insanity. The one thing I can be sure of in all this uncertainty is that Wes is going to be an awesome dad and that makes me smile.
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Annabel Lee by Edgar Allen Poe
We are expecting our own Annabel in August and a few months ago, I heard about this poem by Edgar Allen Poe. Still an English major at heart, I fell in love with it and wanted to share it.
ANNABEL LEE
It was many and many a year ago,
In a kingdom by the sea,
That a maiden there lived whom you may know
By the name of ANNABEL LEE;
And this maiden she lived with no other thought
Than to love and be loved by me.
I was a child and she was a child,
In this kingdom by the sea;
But we loved with a love that was more than love-
I and my Annabel Lee;
With a love that the winged seraphs of heaven
Coveted her and me.
And this was the reason that, long ago,
In this kingdom by the sea,
A wind blew out of a cloud, chilling
My beautiful Annabel Lee;
So that her highborn kinsman came
And bore her away from me,
To shut her up in a sepulchre
In this kingdom by the sea.
The angels, not half so happy in heaven,
Went envying her and me-
Yes!- that was the reason (as all men know,
In this kingdom by the sea)
That the wind came out of the cloud by night,
Chilling and killing my Annabel Lee.
But our love it was stronger by far than the love
Of those who were older than we-
Of many far wiser than we-
And neither the angels in heaven above,
Nor the demons down under the sea,
Can ever dissever my soul from the soul
Of the beautiful Annabel Lee.
For the moon never beams without bringing me dreams
Of the beautiful Annabel Lee;
And the stars never rise but I feel the bright eyes
Of the beautiful Annabel Lee;
And so, all the night-tide, I lie down by the side
Of my darling- my darling- my life and my bride,
In the sepulchre there by the sea,
In her tomb by the sounding sea.
ANNABEL LEE
It was many and many a year ago,
In a kingdom by the sea,
That a maiden there lived whom you may know
By the name of ANNABEL LEE;
And this maiden she lived with no other thought
Than to love and be loved by me.
I was a child and she was a child,
In this kingdom by the sea;
But we loved with a love that was more than love-
I and my Annabel Lee;
With a love that the winged seraphs of heaven
Coveted her and me.
And this was the reason that, long ago,
In this kingdom by the sea,
A wind blew out of a cloud, chilling
My beautiful Annabel Lee;
So that her highborn kinsman came
And bore her away from me,
To shut her up in a sepulchre
In this kingdom by the sea.
The angels, not half so happy in heaven,
Went envying her and me-
Yes!- that was the reason (as all men know,
In this kingdom by the sea)
That the wind came out of the cloud by night,
Chilling and killing my Annabel Lee.
But our love it was stronger by far than the love
Of those who were older than we-
Of many far wiser than we-
And neither the angels in heaven above,
Nor the demons down under the sea,
Can ever dissever my soul from the soul
Of the beautiful Annabel Lee.
For the moon never beams without bringing me dreams
Of the beautiful Annabel Lee;
And the stars never rise but I feel the bright eyes
Of the beautiful Annabel Lee;
And so, all the night-tide, I lie down by the side
Of my darling- my darling- my life and my bride,
In the sepulchre there by the sea,
In her tomb by the sounding sea.
Icy Pops
Since I'm 27 weeks pregnant and loving food more than ever, it only seems natural that my first blog should be about food. Specifically, icy pops. I re-discovered these delicious treats recently while I was hanging out with my sister. When I got back to Columbia, I went to Publix and got some, and haven't stopped eating them since. I was relieved to have found a snack that seemed pretty low on the guilt scale (as opposed to my other loves, pepperjack cheese and ranch flavored kettle chips). I couldn't find a nutrition label, so I assumed they must have basically NO calories. It wasn't until Wes showed me that they did, in fact, have a nutrition label attached to the mesh bag that I saw the calorie content--45 calories. For a stick of ice! Ergh. So now I try to keep it to a few a day.
Sidenote- I also re-discovered screwballs when the ice-cream truck came to our house in Spartanburg last week. YUM. You remember, the one with the bubble-gum at the bottom...
Sidenote- I also re-discovered screwballs when the ice-cream truck came to our house in Spartanburg last week. YUM. You remember, the one with the bubble-gum at the bottom...
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