Added to the album today. Click on the link.
Captions updated too.
Monday, August 31, 2009
A Surprise Visit from Paw Paw
Thursday. The GC (new name coming soon) and I are basking in our post-delivery glow. Kemper is back in our room from the nursery. Ahhhh the nursery.... I wish we could go back...
Then there's a knock on the door. Hmmm. Who could it be? Usually the nurses just barge on in.
"Come in..."
The door opens, and we see a vase of nice yellow roses.
"Awww... someone sent us flowers."
Then the delivery man walks in. Hmmm. He looks familiar. Wait a minute, we know that delivery guy!
Charmaine's dad was standing in our room.
Wow
Seems that he flew in last night, when the first email went out, before the information black out. Then stayed the night in hotel. All for the BY.
Wow... an amazing gesture.
So we spent the rest of the afternoon with Paw Paw, chatting, holding Kemper, and enjoying the day. I took him to the airport later that evening to go home.
What a great day for the BY!
Vagus Baby, Vagus!!!
Well, most of you probably know about my problems with passing out. This has been chronicled to death in the past, even making its way into a post. We knew about my vagus nerve... what we didn't know is about the GC's vagus nerve and how each of them would hold up during delivery. I thought I would be okay, but no one believed me.....
Hopefully you have read the last post, detailing the KP's birthday. But a little episode was saved from the day for this very special post. Yes, ladies and gentleman, the vagus nerve was kicking in full force on this day.
The episode went down during the all important epidural procedure. Yes, one of the two moments I had been dreading the weeks prior to the event (from a syncope standpoint). The anesth MD came in and went over all the details about procedure ad nauseum. I tried to figure out a way to politely say we were doctor's too... but I couldn't figure one. I then considered just pulling my badge out and dangling it in his face, but thankfully I didn't.
So now comes the time to proceed. Oh boy! The MD has the GC sit up, legs hanging over the bed. Uh oh... where am I supposed to go? I was staring at the GC's backside, getting a little nervous. That was where the action (blood and CS fluid) was going to be. Hmmm.... "Daddy, you're going to go to the front and hold mommy up." Whew!!! That I could do. I prance over to the front and grab the GC's shoulders. Then the MD has her bend forward as much as she can , to open up the space. Here we go! I can't watch. I hang my head and close my eyes. But I cleverly position myself so as to give the appearance of whispering into the GC's ears. But then I actually do talk to the GC, so maybe it wasn't all for show.
So the procedure starts. "Needle in. This is the worst part. Your BP might drop a bit." Uh huh. I gulp and start to get twingy. Nervous actually. It's not like this happens every day. But I have to be strong for the ... "I'm feeling lightheaded. I think I'm going to pass out." What!?!? Did that come out of my mouth!?!? I do a split-second full body assessment: head-check, arms-check, legs-check... all systems go. Not me... its the GC!!! Oh God oh god; I hadn't anticipated this one. All the different iterations that were rehearsed in my mind of this moment didn't include this. "Really, babe. Hang in there." "I don't think I can." Hey MD, you think you can hurry this thing up!?!?! I mean secure the hell out of this thing, because if she drops and looses it, we're screwed! He starts moving faster now... "almost there." Just then I feel the full wait of the GC on my shoulders. "Dude you don't got it. Time to move!!!" "Almost.... there!!! Put her down!!!" In almost a synchronous ballet, we both turn her straight on the bed, throw her down, and lift up her legs. It must have been a sight when the reinforcements came in!!! Fluids wide open... the GC perks back up. "Did you get it?" "Yes dear.... we got it!" "When am I going to not feel the contractions?" Good, she's back!
Whew! That MD definitely earned his fee for that one. 10 minutes later she was like a million bucks.... contractions wizzing by, blazing up the tocometer..... oooohhhh that was a big one, I think... she sleeps through. Anything for the GC, definitely worth the trouble. She had another spell much much later in the evening, after all the dehydration, blood loss, and exhaustion. But she's a trooper.
So there it is. Seems the amazingly tough GC is susceptible to the same problems as the Editor. Although for entirely different reasons! Hers is understandable, mine is .... um.... well....er....
Now the question becomes, what vagus nerve does Kemper have?
Hopefully you have read the last post, detailing the KP's birthday. But a little episode was saved from the day for this very special post. Yes, ladies and gentleman, the vagus nerve was kicking in full force on this day.
The episode went down during the all important epidural procedure. Yes, one of the two moments I had been dreading the weeks prior to the event (from a syncope standpoint). The anesth MD came in and went over all the details about procedure ad nauseum. I tried to figure out a way to politely say we were doctor's too... but I couldn't figure one. I then considered just pulling my badge out and dangling it in his face, but thankfully I didn't.
So now comes the time to proceed. Oh boy! The MD has the GC sit up, legs hanging over the bed. Uh oh... where am I supposed to go? I was staring at the GC's backside, getting a little nervous. That was where the action (blood and CS fluid) was going to be. Hmmm.... "Daddy, you're going to go to the front and hold mommy up." Whew!!! That I could do. I prance over to the front and grab the GC's shoulders. Then the MD has her bend forward as much as she can , to open up the space. Here we go! I can't watch. I hang my head and close my eyes. But I cleverly position myself so as to give the appearance of whispering into the GC's ears. But then I actually do talk to the GC, so maybe it wasn't all for show.
So the procedure starts. "Needle in. This is the worst part. Your BP might drop a bit." Uh huh. I gulp and start to get twingy. Nervous actually. It's not like this happens every day. But I have to be strong for the ... "I'm feeling lightheaded. I think I'm going to pass out." What!?!? Did that come out of my mouth!?!? I do a split-second full body assessment: head-check, arms-check, legs-check... all systems go. Not me... its the GC!!! Oh God oh god; I hadn't anticipated this one. All the different iterations that were rehearsed in my mind of this moment didn't include this. "Really, babe. Hang in there." "I don't think I can." Hey MD, you think you can hurry this thing up!?!?! I mean secure the hell out of this thing, because if she drops and looses it, we're screwed! He starts moving faster now... "almost there." Just then I feel the full wait of the GC on my shoulders. "Dude you don't got it. Time to move!!!" "Almost.... there!!! Put her down!!!" In almost a synchronous ballet, we both turn her straight on the bed, throw her down, and lift up her legs. It must have been a sight when the reinforcements came in!!! Fluids wide open... the GC perks back up. "Did you get it?" "Yes dear.... we got it!" "When am I going to not feel the contractions?" Good, she's back!
Whew! That MD definitely earned his fee for that one. 10 minutes later she was like a million bucks.... contractions wizzing by, blazing up the tocometer..... oooohhhh that was a big one, I think... she sleeps through. Anything for the GC, definitely worth the trouble. She had another spell much much later in the evening, after all the dehydration, blood loss, and exhaustion. But she's a trooper.
So there it is. Seems the amazingly tough GC is susceptible to the same problems as the Editor. Although for entirely different reasons! Hers is understandable, mine is .... um.... well....er....
Now the question becomes, what vagus nerve does Kemper have?
Sunday, August 30, 2009
8/26/09- A Day for BY
As I recount KP's birthday, please keep in mind that my memories might be altered by the events of that day, as well as the current combination of sleep deprivation and head cold.
4:20am- Hmmmm.... drowsy... I meander through my sleeping haze. Hmmm, why are the lights on? Hmmm.... Oh well, back to sleep...
4:30am- "Mikey.... Mikey.... I think its time to go the hospital." Wha? WHAT!?!??! Oh crap! I'm up.... and a little dazed. The GC is dressed and showered, hair still slightly wet. Really?!?!? "Yes dear... I think I broke my water." Oh man!! "You can take a shower though, and get freshened up." Ok.
4:35am- I'm in the shower. I can't open the soap dispenser... my hands were shaking. Whew! Get a grip dude! There, its open, now I can bathe.
4:37am- I'm done and toweling off. I hear a racket in the kitchen. Maine, what are you doing? "I'm cleaning up here." Really!?!?!? Seriously!?!?! Actually, does this surprise anyone? I should've known. I take Ham out for an instant pee... man, he is in for a whirlwind 48hrs. He still was in his wakeup stretch when I dragged him outside.
4:50am- We're in the car driving down to the hospital. Speed bumps. eh!?!? This might make labor go faster! I think better and go slow.
5:00am- We're at the hospital and racing through the halls. Well, I'm racing, dragging the poor GC behind me. Damn, woman keep up!!! What's the deal!?!?!? We get to the L&D triage area and get checked in. A nice older nurse named Fifi (with a streak of pink dye in her gray hair?) came and got us set up. "Did your water break?" Um, why do you think we're here? Because we were out for a stroll and got bored... damn! "Well, let me see." After her check, she decided to call the OB. Seems that they need to see the "water" pouring out of you to believe it. Hmm. So we wait for the OB.
5:30am- No OB. Contractions coming. GC in pain, and actually getting more uncomfortable. Damn I hope we don't have this baby here!
5:45am- NO OB. Seriously!?!?! What's the deal? Is she dead? "I paged her twice and she hasn't responded." Well, do something.
7:00am- FINALLY THE OB ARRIVES. We'd never met her before, but she was way too chipper/bubbly for this early in the AM. Especially since we had been waiting for-ever! No reason/excuse was given. She comes in, chit-chats, and then goes to check under the hood! "hmmm... doesn't look like your water is broken. But let's go under the microscope." Really, do people fake labor???
7:15am- She returns.... "I searched all over the slide, and finally found some ferning! You're in labor." Hooray, no give us the epidural!!! IV time and blood work. Test #1 for my vagus nerve: PASSED... No passing out. Not yet.
8:00am- We get to the L&D suite. Things are moving fast now. We get dropped off in the bed. The GC is in lots of pain. "I need my epidural." Everyone kept asking what our birth plan was. Real simple: drugs, drugs, drugs, deliver baby, drugs, sleep. Same answer everytime.
8:15am- Anesth MD comes to do the epidural. Whew! It's about time. Review of her history... Come on people, let's go. So we set up the GC for the epidural. (Editors note: The epidural procedure is the subject of a totally different post, titled "Vagus, Baby Vagus!!" Please stay tuned for details.)
8:30am- We're done with epidural. The GC asks "When is it going to feel better?" Just wait, says the exasperated anesth. 2 Contractions later, the GC is on cloud 9.....ahhhhhh!
8:40am- I send out the first email. I know I missed many many people, but I tried.
9:00am- Contractions are wizzing by... the GC.... ahhhhh!!!! "I love epidurals!"
9:30am- We hear a horrific, blood curdling scream from the lady next door. We turn to each other, smile, and say "She didn't get an epidural."
12:30am- Nurse check. "Hmmm... a little blood show. let me look. Wow. You're at 10cm. Let me call the MD." The MD comes in (a different one... shift change ended at 7am.... this one was awesome.) "Wow... I guess we can try our lot at pushing." In come a gaggle of nurses: main nurse, nurse assistant, baby nurse and md. The bed now is transformed into the "birthing bed". (Insert your own mechanical noises here.) Out come the stirrups. Down goes the foot. Then position the GC for delivery.
12:45pm- Ok, now push. The GC pushes.... On the monitor, the baby's HR goes from a rocksteady 140-150bpm to 60-70bpm. And stays there. The GC stops. Everyone looks at the monitor. Dead silence. We wait, seemingly for a hour, for the HR. Finally it picks back up. Everyone looks to the MD. I do remember something from OB (besides "empuje, senorita, empuje") and decels are not good. I think my HR jumped into the stratosphere. "Well, your baby has been rock steady the whole time. Which is good. What she just did probably means that the cord is wrapped around her neck." Errrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr. Gulp! I now envisioned C-section and OR room. I got real sweaty. "So what we're going to do is watch, and wait for Mother Nature to push the baby down. Then, when she is right at the front door, we'll push and guide her if we need to." Ok... I really couldn't think straight at this point. I had no idea (and still don't) as to what the GC was thinking. So we wait on Mother Nature. She works on her own time.
2:00pm- Nothing. Waiting.
3:00pm- Nothing. Waiting.
4:00pm- Now we have entered the "Ring of Fire." Here was my anatomy lession of the day, compliments of Linda, the OB nurse. As the baby descends in the birth canal, they come across the rectum. This is a tough organ to navigate, since it is tethered to the anus, and really doesn't want to move. Somehow the baby is then supposed to turn upward and come out the "front door." Well, supposedly the epidural can alleviate the contraction pain... But the pressure pain of the baby ramming its head on and through the birth canal stays. Judging by the GC's reaction. It must hurt like a royal b%$&#!!!!
The MD came back in. "Ok we're close. I'll come back at 4:30, if you can stand it. Then we'll start pushing." The GC was ready.
4:20pm- "Whew" the GC exclaims, "this really is a doozy." She clearly looks uncomfortable.
4:40pm- The MD comes back. "Alright let's get started." The team arrives. whoosh! The bed returns to OB position. The stirrups arrive in their upright position. Here we go. They give us the trial run of how things will go. The GC is ready. Glasses are set. Let's gooooo!!!
5:00pm- Push push push push. Good girl. You're soo close.
5:05pm- PUSH push push push. Good girl. You're soo close.
5:10pm- Push push push push. Good girl. You're soo close. At this point I've had enough. "Listen girls," I tell the nurses, "this ain't going to work. You guys can't keep saying 'so close'. You have to come up with more descriptive terms, that tells us we're really moving here." Ok
5:15pm- Push push push push. Good girl. You're so so so close. Thanks. Regular comedians.
More pushing and pushing. I, true to my word, stayed up north. I didn't want to see the action. Unfortunately, the nurses kept egging me on. "Come on... take a look at your baby." So I did... All I saw was hibiclens liquid, cream, and a whole lotta hair. I didn't take another look until the end.
6:00pm- "Ok," the MD says, "GC, I can see that you're getting tired. I can use the suction over here to assist... -" The GC, exhausted at this point, says "DO IT!!!" And away we go!!! He takes out this suction contraption, with a hand lever, and brings it into the field. Oh boy! I'm definitely not going to watch this.
6:17pm- She's out. Thank God. The baby nurses wisk her away to the warmer. Whew! The GC is spent. She was awesome throughout the whole thing. Kemper is beautiful.
And I didn't pass out through the whole thing!
But this is not about me.
4:20am- Hmmmm.... drowsy... I meander through my sleeping haze. Hmmm, why are the lights on? Hmmm.... Oh well, back to sleep...
4:30am- "Mikey.... Mikey.... I think its time to go the hospital." Wha? WHAT!?!??! Oh crap! I'm up.... and a little dazed. The GC is dressed and showered, hair still slightly wet. Really?!?!? "Yes dear... I think I broke my water." Oh man!! "You can take a shower though, and get freshened up." Ok.
4:35am- I'm in the shower. I can't open the soap dispenser... my hands were shaking. Whew! Get a grip dude! There, its open, now I can bathe.
4:37am- I'm done and toweling off. I hear a racket in the kitchen. Maine, what are you doing? "I'm cleaning up here." Really!?!?!? Seriously!?!?! Actually, does this surprise anyone? I should've known. I take Ham out for an instant pee... man, he is in for a whirlwind 48hrs. He still was in his wakeup stretch when I dragged him outside.
4:50am- We're in the car driving down to the hospital. Speed bumps. eh!?!? This might make labor go faster! I think better and go slow.
5:00am- We're at the hospital and racing through the halls. Well, I'm racing, dragging the poor GC behind me. Damn, woman keep up!!! What's the deal!?!?!? We get to the L&D triage area and get checked in. A nice older nurse named Fifi (with a streak of pink dye in her gray hair?) came and got us set up. "Did your water break?" Um, why do you think we're here? Because we were out for a stroll and got bored... damn! "Well, let me see." After her check, she decided to call the OB. Seems that they need to see the "water" pouring out of you to believe it. Hmm. So we wait for the OB.
5:30am- No OB. Contractions coming. GC in pain, and actually getting more uncomfortable. Damn I hope we don't have this baby here!
5:45am- NO OB. Seriously!?!?! What's the deal? Is she dead? "I paged her twice and she hasn't responded." Well, do something.
7:00am- FINALLY THE OB ARRIVES. We'd never met her before, but she was way too chipper/bubbly for this early in the AM. Especially since we had been waiting for-ever! No reason/excuse was given. She comes in, chit-chats, and then goes to check under the hood! "hmmm... doesn't look like your water is broken. But let's go under the microscope." Really, do people fake labor???
7:15am- She returns.... "I searched all over the slide, and finally found some ferning! You're in labor." Hooray, no give us the epidural!!! IV time and blood work. Test #1 for my vagus nerve: PASSED... No passing out. Not yet.
8:00am- We get to the L&D suite. Things are moving fast now. We get dropped off in the bed. The GC is in lots of pain. "I need my epidural." Everyone kept asking what our birth plan was. Real simple: drugs, drugs, drugs, deliver baby, drugs, sleep. Same answer everytime.
8:15am- Anesth MD comes to do the epidural. Whew! It's about time. Review of her history... Come on people, let's go. So we set up the GC for the epidural. (Editors note: The epidural procedure is the subject of a totally different post, titled "Vagus, Baby Vagus!!" Please stay tuned for details.)
8:30am- We're done with epidural. The GC asks "When is it going to feel better?" Just wait, says the exasperated anesth. 2 Contractions later, the GC is on cloud 9.....ahhhhhh!
8:40am- I send out the first email. I know I missed many many people, but I tried.
9:00am- Contractions are wizzing by... the GC.... ahhhhh!!!! "I love epidurals!"
9:30am- We hear a horrific, blood curdling scream from the lady next door. We turn to each other, smile, and say "She didn't get an epidural."
12:30am- Nurse check. "Hmmm... a little blood show. let me look. Wow. You're at 10cm. Let me call the MD." The MD comes in (a different one... shift change ended at 7am.... this one was awesome.) "Wow... I guess we can try our lot at pushing." In come a gaggle of nurses: main nurse, nurse assistant, baby nurse and md. The bed now is transformed into the "birthing bed". (Insert your own mechanical noises here.) Out come the stirrups. Down goes the foot. Then position the GC for delivery.
12:45pm- Ok, now push. The GC pushes.... On the monitor, the baby's HR goes from a rocksteady 140-150bpm to 60-70bpm. And stays there. The GC stops. Everyone looks at the monitor. Dead silence. We wait, seemingly for a hour, for the HR. Finally it picks back up. Everyone looks to the MD. I do remember something from OB (besides "empuje, senorita, empuje") and decels are not good. I think my HR jumped into the stratosphere. "Well, your baby has been rock steady the whole time. Which is good. What she just did probably means that the cord is wrapped around her neck." Errrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr. Gulp! I now envisioned C-section and OR room. I got real sweaty. "So what we're going to do is watch, and wait for Mother Nature to push the baby down. Then, when she is right at the front door, we'll push and guide her if we need to." Ok... I really couldn't think straight at this point. I had no idea (and still don't) as to what the GC was thinking. So we wait on Mother Nature. She works on her own time.
2:00pm- Nothing. Waiting.
3:00pm- Nothing. Waiting.
4:00pm- Now we have entered the "Ring of Fire." Here was my anatomy lession of the day, compliments of Linda, the OB nurse. As the baby descends in the birth canal, they come across the rectum. This is a tough organ to navigate, since it is tethered to the anus, and really doesn't want to move. Somehow the baby is then supposed to turn upward and come out the "front door." Well, supposedly the epidural can alleviate the contraction pain... But the pressure pain of the baby ramming its head on and through the birth canal stays. Judging by the GC's reaction. It must hurt like a royal b%$&#!!!!
The MD came back in. "Ok we're close. I'll come back at 4:30, if you can stand it. Then we'll start pushing." The GC was ready.
4:20pm- "Whew" the GC exclaims, "this really is a doozy." She clearly looks uncomfortable.
4:40pm- The MD comes back. "Alright let's get started." The team arrives. whoosh! The bed returns to OB position. The stirrups arrive in their upright position. Here we go. They give us the trial run of how things will go. The GC is ready. Glasses are set. Let's gooooo!!!
5:00pm- Push push push push. Good girl. You're soo close.
5:05pm- PUSH push push push. Good girl. You're soo close.
5:10pm- Push push push push. Good girl. You're soo close. At this point I've had enough. "Listen girls," I tell the nurses, "this ain't going to work. You guys can't keep saying 'so close'. You have to come up with more descriptive terms, that tells us we're really moving here." Ok
5:15pm- Push push push push. Good girl. You're so so so close. Thanks. Regular comedians.
More pushing and pushing. I, true to my word, stayed up north. I didn't want to see the action. Unfortunately, the nurses kept egging me on. "Come on... take a look at your baby." So I did... All I saw was hibiclens liquid, cream, and a whole lotta hair. I didn't take another look until the end.
6:00pm- "Ok," the MD says, "GC, I can see that you're getting tired. I can use the suction over here to assist... -" The GC, exhausted at this point, says "DO IT!!!" And away we go!!! He takes out this suction contraption, with a hand lever, and brings it into the field. Oh boy! I'm definitely not going to watch this.
6:17pm- She's out. Thank God. The baby nurses wisk her away to the warmer. Whew! The GC is spent. She was awesome throughout the whole thing. Kemper is beautiful.
And I didn't pass out through the whole thing!
But this is not about me.
Saturday, August 29, 2009
Blog Updates
Alright, after much machinations... I have pretty much reverted back to the original blog. (I mean if it ain't broke...)
But there are some simple, but important updates.
First, the Birthday Cake has been updated, and now counts down to 8/26/10.
Second, and probably most important to the loyal BY followers, is a link to the KP photo album. It's on Snapfish, so if you don't have an account, you'll have to make one. It's pretty easy and doesn't require $$$. Any new photos will be uploaded to that album link.
Enjoy.
But there are some simple, but important updates.
First, the Birthday Cake has been updated, and now counts down to 8/26/10.
Second, and probably most important to the loyal BY followers, is a link to the KP photo album. It's on Snapfish, so if you don't have an account, you'll have to make one. It's pretty easy and doesn't require $$$. Any new photos will be uploaded to that album link.
Enjoy.
We're Home!
My fellow BY-Followers, we have arrived safely at home (this actually occurred Friday PM, but we've been dead tired...)
Now we're settling in.
I would like to apologize for the connection issues/information delay around the events. I had grand plans for the blog. The original plan was to blog directly from the hospital. But it wasn't until last Tuesday that I realized the computer issues at NHRMC. Basically, they have an internet filter that won't allow you to access certain sites. Unfortunately, these included social blogging sites and Facebook. Crazy, I know! I tried to work around the issue Tuesday, but got tired and went to bed. I figured I had some more time to sort it out.
Also, we had everyone's cellphone numbers. Both of our phones were charged and ready to go. But, the delivery suite was a freakin' deadzone! Unbelievable!!!! Then, the phones, in their roaming state, discharge all their freakin' power. So there we were around noon without any real ability to pass on info. I did have Skype, which I used to chat with my sister and mother.
But now we're back on track. Obviously the website is going to undergo some renovations, which I'll be working on tonight.
Here are some Post Titles that I am working on: (They're in my head, I just have to put fingers to keyboard)
- 8/26/09: The Day!
- Daddy Changes A Diaper
- Vagus, Baby, Vagus!!!
- Anatomy of a Kemper
- The GolfCart Gets a New Name
- Our First Night Home: the GC, Editor, Kemper, Hamilton, and TS Danny!
- Daddy Goes Shopping!
- A Surprise Visit from Paw Paw
- LaLa arrives (and the Editor's Stomach Rejoices!)
Until then, here's a couple of pics to tide you over....
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Day: -8
Today was unlike any other...
At 6:17pm, Charmaine (after an amazing 14hours of labor... and 2 of actual pushing) delivered a healthy Baby Yarnoz.
Mommy and Baby (and Daddy) are doing well.
(I sooo wanted to blog all day, but couldn't because of the internet filter at the hospital.)
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Day: -9
Another day... another day.
The agony of The Wait continues.
The GC did waddle over to the OB today. He checked under the hood, and found that she was still 3-4 cm dilated. No progression. Alas.
We could go at any time.
In other news, we used our induction cooktop today. Made a lovely sumptuous meal. Giada's Turkey Farfalle a la GC... minus the Farfalle. (we didn't have any and had to substitute some linguine).
So, before we could cook on the induction, we had to read the instructions. So there we were, Page 1.... ahhh... Then the GC "got tired" and couldn't read anymore. Seriously!??! Hmmm, she did have a rough night last night. So, then I had to read the directions to her. After Page 3, we got bored, and then just turn the damned thing on....
ooooooooooooooooooooooooo!!!! Sleek and modern!!!
We used the pot filler!!!
OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!! Sexy.... Except the GC got so excited she turned the water on too fast, sending splatter everywhere... Lession learned.
Then the cooking began. Boiled water in about 2-3 minutes... I think we might have put too much water in the pot! The the saute-ing of the turkey and veggies.... Yumyum... Last, but certainly not least, came the Crescent Rolls (another BY favorite!)
What a lovely feast!
Then, at the end, the GC declared that she was exhausted, and waddled off to bed.... leaving me with the cleanup.
Ahhh... the new kitchen!
The agony of The Wait continues.
The GC did waddle over to the OB today. He checked under the hood, and found that she was still 3-4 cm dilated. No progression. Alas.
We could go at any time.
In other news, we used our induction cooktop today. Made a lovely sumptuous meal. Giada's Turkey Farfalle a la GC... minus the Farfalle. (we didn't have any and had to substitute some linguine).
So, before we could cook on the induction, we had to read the instructions. So there we were, Page 1.... ahhh... Then the GC "got tired" and couldn't read anymore. Seriously!??! Hmmm, she did have a rough night last night. So, then I had to read the directions to her. After Page 3, we got bored, and then just turn the damned thing on....
ooooooooooooooooooooooooo!!!! Sleek and modern!!!
We used the pot filler!!!
OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!! Sexy.... Except the GC got so excited she turned the water on too fast, sending splatter everywhere... Lession learned.
Then the cooking began. Boiled water in about 2-3 minutes... I think we might have put too much water in the pot! The the saute-ing of the turkey and veggies.... Yumyum... Last, but certainly not least, came the Crescent Rolls (another BY favorite!)
What a lovely feast!
Then, at the end, the GC declared that she was exhausted, and waddled off to bed.... leaving me with the cleanup.
Ahhh... the new kitchen!
Day Totals:
Contractions: ??? (she was sleeping too much to count)
GC cleaning endeavors: 2
GC Pit Stops: 3 (somehow now she can sleep through bathroom breaks too!)
Ham Pit stops: 7 (Yes! Broke the dog back into going in the bushes. I showed him who's boss!... I might have had to go in there with him... but that is a different story.)
GC grunts and groans: 2 (much better)
Monday, August 24, 2009
Day: -10
Nothing yet!
Well, maybe something.... we have a cooktop!!!
Oh yes... A nice bran-spanking new 36" 5 burner black/stainless steel induction cooktop. No tile-guy's knee-indention. Man, it's sexy.
And what did we have for dinner on this new sleek sexy cooktop?
Peanut butter.
Yup... you read correctly. The ol' yarnoz standby: 2 PB sandwiches. (Yes, I love PB sooooo much, that I don't taint it with Jelly. Occasionally I might "spice" things up a bit with grape jelly, but the mainstay is PB)
I know.
Truth be told that the GC had one more evening shift to waddle off to. And now she has gotten herself a head cold. Yup, the GC has reverted back to Charmaine... she's sick. "But getting better." Great... just another thing for me to worry about.
Anyways, the dinner was postponed until tomorrow night. Then, who knows what we'll cook up, "in 90 secs."
Otherwise the day was relatively benign. The GC slept all day. I brought home the bacon!
Day Totals:
Contractions: 1
GC cleaning endeavors: 0
GC Pit Stops: 10
Ham Pit stops: 7 (Painfully now, Ham has decided that he is to "high-fal-utin" to go into the bushes to do his business. Now he stubbornly walks on by, and goes right in the neighbors front lawn, leaving daddy to scoop. Maybe this is his way to say, "Yo guys, look at me! Don't forget the cute old furry one here". Gotta nip this one in the bud!)
GC grunts and groans: 100 (*** included in this is an estimate of all the throat clearing... poor GC.)
Well, maybe something.... we have a cooktop!!!
Oh yes... A nice bran-spanking new 36" 5 burner black/stainless steel induction cooktop. No tile-guy's knee-indention. Man, it's sexy.
And what did we have for dinner on this new sleek sexy cooktop?
Peanut butter.
Yup... you read correctly. The ol' yarnoz standby: 2 PB sandwiches. (Yes, I love PB sooooo much, that I don't taint it with Jelly. Occasionally I might "spice" things up a bit with grape jelly, but the mainstay is PB)
I know.
Truth be told that the GC had one more evening shift to waddle off to. And now she has gotten herself a head cold. Yup, the GC has reverted back to Charmaine... she's sick. "But getting better." Great... just another thing for me to worry about.
Anyways, the dinner was postponed until tomorrow night. Then, who knows what we'll cook up, "in 90 secs."
Otherwise the day was relatively benign. The GC slept all day. I brought home the bacon!
Day Totals:
Contractions: 1
GC cleaning endeavors: 0
GC Pit Stops: 10
Ham Pit stops: 7 (Painfully now, Ham has decided that he is to "high-fal-utin" to go into the bushes to do his business. Now he stubbornly walks on by, and goes right in the neighbors front lawn, leaving daddy to scoop. Maybe this is his way to say, "Yo guys, look at me! Don't forget the cute old furry one here". Gotta nip this one in the bud!)
GC grunts and groans: 100 (*** included in this is an estimate of all the throat clearing... poor GC.)
Sunday, August 23, 2009
Day: -11
Today was more of a recovery day for us. The GC from her night shift, and myself from my 24h call day. The morning was nice and easy... I woke up at 9 and ate some Eggo waffles. Yum. The GC was already awake, eating her cereal.
Then we went back to bed for more sleeping.... nice!
The afternoon was spent doing the GC's favorite pasttime: yup, you guessed it... cleaning. She mopped, I dysoned the downstairs. Then I dysoned the upstairs and cleaned up our closet. (found another unpacked box!!!)
Then we went to lunch. Mexican! (not Moe's though... a local place) We figure maybe some Montezuma's revenge could start some BY laboring... or maybe something else.
Rest of the afternoon was easy breezy... until about 45min before the GC would have to go to work....
"...ew..." What? "Oh a contraction!" then another... and another.... and another.... and another... Put out like 10 in about 30min.
Uh oh, Monte was dead on!
We kinda panicked a little. Is it time? Where we ready? Hmmm... The GC was a little upset, mostly because of what she would have to do to get someone to cover her shift.
But then they subsided, and the GC trooped off to work. But not before packing "The Bag". Then, I think as a precaution, the GC called her OB while at the hospital and got "checked".... false alarm... still 4 cm dilated.... Whew!
Man, I don't think I can take much more of this!
No totals today.
Stay tuned!
Then we went back to bed for more sleeping.... nice!
The afternoon was spent doing the GC's favorite pasttime: yup, you guessed it... cleaning. She mopped, I dysoned the downstairs. Then I dysoned the upstairs and cleaned up our closet. (found another unpacked box!!!)
Then we went to lunch. Mexican! (not Moe's though... a local place) We figure maybe some Montezuma's revenge could start some BY laboring... or maybe something else.
Rest of the afternoon was easy breezy... until about 45min before the GC would have to go to work....
"...ew..." What? "Oh a contraction!" then another... and another.... and another.... and another... Put out like 10 in about 30min.
Uh oh, Monte was dead on!
We kinda panicked a little. Is it time? Where we ready? Hmmm... The GC was a little upset, mostly because of what she would have to do to get someone to cover her shift.
But then they subsided, and the GC trooped off to work. But not before packing "The Bag". Then, I think as a precaution, the GC called her OB while at the hospital and got "checked".... false alarm... still 4 cm dilated.... Whew!
Man, I don't think I can take much more of this!
No totals today.
Stay tuned!
Saturday, August 22, 2009
Day: -12
Greetings from the NHRMC!!!
No, loyal BY followers, this Day’s installment is not from the BWCWCC (i.e. labor and delivery). It is from the Hospitalist call room on the 4th floor.
You see, loyal BY-ites, the GC and I are both on call tonight at the mothership. Both busy so we can buy the BY some pretty pink shoesies. So it is 11pm now, and we’re waiting for some more business. (I will go home soon to post this, because the NHRMC has a block on the BY blog…. BOOO!!!)
The rest of today was a nice leisurely day. The GC waddled and drove the hybrid down to Kure Beach to hang out with Aunt Annette and her family. I, on the other hand, was thrown to the cardiology wolves by my partners: weekend call. The GC had fun…… I did not.
So here we are. Nothing else exciting. Not yet.
Day Totals:
Contractions: 10
GC cleaning endeavors: 6
GC Pit Stops: 15
Ham Pit stops: 7
GC grunts and groans: 15
No, loyal BY followers, this Day’s installment is not from the BWCWCC (i.e. labor and delivery). It is from the Hospitalist call room on the 4th floor.
You see, loyal BY-ites, the GC and I are both on call tonight at the mothership. Both busy so we can buy the BY some pretty pink shoesies. So it is 11pm now, and we’re waiting for some more business. (I will go home soon to post this, because the NHRMC has a block on the BY blog…. BOOO!!!)
The rest of today was a nice leisurely day. The GC waddled and drove the hybrid down to Kure Beach to hang out with Aunt Annette and her family. I, on the other hand, was thrown to the cardiology wolves by my partners: weekend call. The GC had fun…… I did not.
So here we are. Nothing else exciting. Not yet.
Day Totals:
Contractions: 10
GC cleaning endeavors: 6
GC Pit Stops: 15
Ham Pit stops: 7
GC grunts and groans: 15
Day -13
Nope, no BY today folks. But the GC is really slowing down.
I was busy today, although nothing too excited. I ran back and forth to the hospital from the office with my head on a swivel.
Ham had a stressful day though... thunderstorm. The contractors finally saw him at his most neurotic moment, running out into the rain to avoid the thunder. Not so bright.
After work, the GC and I drove to Kure Beach to meet up with Auntie Annette, Darlene, and little baby Layla-of-the-spiked-hair. We're already making baby friends for the BY!
I was busy today, although nothing too excited. I ran back and forth to the hospital from the office with my head on a swivel.
Ham had a stressful day though... thunderstorm. The contractors finally saw him at his most neurotic moment, running out into the rain to avoid the thunder. Not so bright.
After work, the GC and I drove to Kure Beach to meet up with Auntie Annette, Darlene, and little baby Layla-of-the-spiked-hair. We're already making baby friends for the BY!
Day Totals:
- Contractions: 10
- GC cleaning endeavors: 3 (windows, vaccuuming, new kitchen organization)
- GC Pit Stops: "at least 15"
- Ham Pit stops: 6
- GC grunts and groans: 8
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Day: -14
No BY.... this is getting old!
Man! I can't handle the anticipation and stress. I know its going to happen soon. I figure any time I am in a procedure, that's when the BY'll come. I can almost be sure of it. No procedures today. Tomorrow.... oh yes!
So what is a father-to-be to do? I don't know. I have started sleeping better. (if anyone was wondering) I think the stress of the new job overrides the anxiety of new baby, and I fall right to sleep.
The GC? She's the same. Every time I see her in the hospital I chuckle to myself. I should really take a picture of the babybump sticking out of the coat. So cute!
Oh, and just when you thought it was safe to move around our house without running into cardboard.... there's more cardboard. More stuff keeps arriving daily. Yesterday we got some barstools for the kitchen, baby supplies from Caitlin and Nicole, and assorted other things. Today we got dresser legs from Ikea and some weird "poofs" for the GC to recline on. I also think we opened the last box from our move. Oh wait, there's one more in the basement/gameroom. Alas.
Time for bed.
Day Totals:
Contractions: 6
GC cleaning endeavors: 2
GC Pit Stops: "ugh... 50!" now that is more realistic!
Ham Pit stops: 5
GC grunts and groans: 5
Stay tuned!
Man! I can't handle the anticipation and stress. I know its going to happen soon. I figure any time I am in a procedure, that's when the BY'll come. I can almost be sure of it. No procedures today. Tomorrow.... oh yes!
So what is a father-to-be to do? I don't know. I have started sleeping better. (if anyone was wondering) I think the stress of the new job overrides the anxiety of new baby, and I fall right to sleep.
The GC? She's the same. Every time I see her in the hospital I chuckle to myself. I should really take a picture of the babybump sticking out of the coat. So cute!
Oh, and just when you thought it was safe to move around our house without running into cardboard.... there's more cardboard. More stuff keeps arriving daily. Yesterday we got some barstools for the kitchen, baby supplies from Caitlin and Nicole, and assorted other things. Today we got dresser legs from Ikea and some weird "poofs" for the GC to recline on. I also think we opened the last box from our move. Oh wait, there's one more in the basement/gameroom. Alas.
Time for bed.
Day Totals:
Contractions: 6
GC cleaning endeavors: 2
GC Pit Stops: "ugh... 50!" now that is more realistic!
Ham Pit stops: 5
GC grunts and groans: 5
Stay tuned!
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Day: -15
No BY!
Today the GC and I worked some. We took a nice break for lunch, splitting a yummy fajita wrap in the cafeteria. (awwwww!!!!) Then she waddled off to do more work. I went my own way too.
She had another OB visit today... Now 3cm dilated....
Oh, and he got to "touch BY's head".... no fair!!!
Otherwise nothing exciting to report. No witty comments. Just pretty tired.... (although our water from our new refrigerator is amazing! it's like those little people at samsung put crack in the filter!!!! wow!!!)
So, off to bed now!
Day Totals:
Contractions: 3
GC cleaning endeavors: 1
GC Pit Stops: " a couple " .... yeah, right!
Ham Pit stops: 6
GC grunts and groans: 98
Today the GC and I worked some. We took a nice break for lunch, splitting a yummy fajita wrap in the cafeteria. (awwwww!!!!) Then she waddled off to do more work. I went my own way too.
She had another OB visit today... Now 3cm dilated....
Oh, and he got to "touch BY's head".... no fair!!!
Otherwise nothing exciting to report. No witty comments. Just pretty tired.... (although our water from our new refrigerator is amazing! it's like those little people at samsung put crack in the filter!!!! wow!!!)
So, off to bed now!
Day Totals:
Contractions: 3
GC cleaning endeavors: 1
GC Pit Stops: " a couple " .... yeah, right!
Ham Pit stops: 6
GC grunts and groans: 98
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Day: -16
Just got back from my welcome dinner with my group. Very nice. Great restaurant with amazing food. Very nice people. I think we'll get along here very well.
The rest of the day was really uneventful. The GC was very busy in the ER on the telephone. I was postcall (not that bad, just some annoying calls) and saw some patients. Did another pacemaker: the patient is still alive... I think.
Now we're getting ready for bed. Nothing happened in the kitchen either... and to which we're sort of bummed.
Oh, and nothing happened with the BY.
All in all a boring, uneventful day.
Day Totals:
Contractions: 2
GC cleaning endeavors: 0
GC Pit Stops: "1,000,000.... today was not a good day for my bladder"
Ham Pit stops: 5
GC grunts and groans: 78
The rest of the day was really uneventful. The GC was very busy in the ER on the telephone. I was postcall (not that bad, just some annoying calls) and saw some patients. Did another pacemaker: the patient is still alive... I think.
Now we're getting ready for bed. Nothing happened in the kitchen either... and to which we're sort of bummed.
Oh, and nothing happened with the BY.
All in all a boring, uneventful day.
Day Totals:
Contractions: 2
GC cleaning endeavors: 0
GC Pit Stops: "1,000,000.... today was not a good day for my bladder"
Ham Pit stops: 5
GC grunts and groans: 78
Monday, August 17, 2009
Day: -17
Another day in the BY books!
Today had its moments. I saw some patients in clinic and now I am on my first call as an attending. The GC had her first day as the MOD (hospitalist working out of the ER.)
Not that exciting yet.
But, I did have my first consult on call. Some dude with a MI who got admitted from his primary MD's clinic. I saw him in the ER. But then, as I was lost amongst the see of anarchy, I heard the sweet sweet sound of a familiar voice.
"Hey, hot stuff! I need a consult, baby"
I swung around and saw the GC... in all her 37week glory. Whew! We made eye contact! Wink wink.
(ok, I embellished some of this story a little)
But we did meet in the ER. Oh, it was just like the end of intern year (when the passionate fires of love were stoked... with the aid of textpaging.... and blueberry scones!) It was fun seeing each other in our doctor regalia.
(Editors note: However the 37-38week GC in doctor regalia is a definite sight to see. She wears her coat quite interestingly. Supposedly if she leaves it unbuttoned, all her MD crap falls out of the pockets when she parks. So she has to button it somewhere. Well... um... they don't make pregnancy coats for MD's. Unfortunately. So, the GC buttons the top button and lets everything else hang free. This creates a huge opening up front for her chassis! Oh it's an impressive sight: this hot MD waddling down the ER with her white coat nicely framing her babybump! Other people give her a wide, wide berth. Impressive.)
After our ED visit, we met up later in the Doctor's Lounge for some chit-chat. I like Doctor's Lounges.... Free Drinks!
Now we're getting ready for bed... and the endless supply of pages from the ER.
Day Totals:
- Contractions: 3
- GC cleaning endeavors: 1
- GC Pit Stops: 12
- Ham Pit stops: 5
- GC grunts and groans: 67~
Sunday, August 16, 2009
Day: - 18
Hello all...
A new feature to the BY blogosphere: a day-by-day synopsis of the events in the BY Universe. This will keep going as we count down to the arrival of the newest Yarnoz...
AM: We had a lovely breakfast in our new kitchen. Fresh brewed coffee and "home-baked" cinnamon rolls. (baked in the convection microwave oven in half the time!) Yum yum. But the GC had other plans for me today: the carseats! We figured that we should be prepared in case of an early arrival of the BY. So we got both of the bases and brought them out to the car. Her car was a breeze with the LATCH system. Mine... well... I had to read both sets of directions. Secure! Then we set up these little "mirrors" to the seatbacks, so you can see the baby while you drive.
Then it was time for church. We went to a different one (hey, we're Catholic free agents!!!). As we were walking in, we saw a couple with a freshly minted baby... oh man, it was sooo small!!! The GC and I looked at each other... yes, dear... we're getting one of those.
PM: Church finished and then we went to Panera for lunch. We had planned ahead: she brought her computer and I had some books. And there we were for the afternoon. Around 4, the GC couldn't sit still anymore... she had enough! Time to go home. I guess she needed to move.... er... clean was more like it.
We got home and she got out her window cleaning kits. Seems that the dirt on the windows had just about reached the GC's breaking point. She busts out this squeegee thing with a super long extension and goes to work. Well, not to be outdone, I piddle around in the yard raking some pine straw.
Then we're done. Rest of the evening was spent in the kitchen, eating leftovers (heated nicely in the microwave convection oven), and drinking from the bev fridge.... ah! The beer is sooooooo much colder from there.
Now we're getting ready to turn in for the evening. Work tomorrow.
Day Totals:
Contractions: 0
GC cleaning endeavors: 3
GC Pit Stops: 22
Ham Pit stops: 3
GC grunts and groans: 97
A new feature to the BY blogosphere: a day-by-day synopsis of the events in the BY Universe. This will keep going as we count down to the arrival of the newest Yarnoz...
AM: We had a lovely breakfast in our new kitchen. Fresh brewed coffee and "home-baked" cinnamon rolls. (baked in the convection microwave oven in half the time!) Yum yum. But the GC had other plans for me today: the carseats! We figured that we should be prepared in case of an early arrival of the BY. So we got both of the bases and brought them out to the car. Her car was a breeze with the LATCH system. Mine... well... I had to read both sets of directions. Secure! Then we set up these little "mirrors" to the seatbacks, so you can see the baby while you drive.
Then it was time for church. We went to a different one (hey, we're Catholic free agents!!!). As we were walking in, we saw a couple with a freshly minted baby... oh man, it was sooo small!!! The GC and I looked at each other... yes, dear... we're getting one of those.
PM: Church finished and then we went to Panera for lunch. We had planned ahead: she brought her computer and I had some books. And there we were for the afternoon. Around 4, the GC couldn't sit still anymore... she had enough! Time to go home. I guess she needed to move.... er... clean was more like it.
We got home and she got out her window cleaning kits. Seems that the dirt on the windows had just about reached the GC's breaking point. She busts out this squeegee thing with a super long extension and goes to work. Well, not to be outdone, I piddle around in the yard raking some pine straw.
Then we're done. Rest of the evening was spent in the kitchen, eating leftovers (heated nicely in the microwave convection oven), and drinking from the bev fridge.... ah! The beer is sooooooo much colder from there.
Now we're getting ready to turn in for the evening. Work tomorrow.
Day Totals:
Contractions: 0
GC cleaning endeavors: 3
GC Pit Stops: 22
Ham Pit stops: 3
GC grunts and groans: 97
Saturday, August 15, 2009
The State of The GM Kitchen
My fellow BY-followers...
Today is the day that I, the Editor, come to blog to update you on the fine state of our kitchen!
Yes, folks, there is a kitchen...
It has electricity! And lights! (most of them... still waiting on pendants and puck lighting... who would have thought I would've typed that one...)
And appliances!!! Yes, most of them are functional...
Today is the day that I, the Editor, come to blog to update you on the fine state of our kitchen!
Yes, folks, there is a kitchen...
It has electricity! And lights! (most of them... still waiting on pendants and puck lighting... who would have thought I would've typed that one...)And appliances!!! Yes, most of them are functional...
- The fridge is in place and cooling nicely. The ice maker and water dispenser have gone through enough cycles to wash out whatever crud Samsung put in it...
- The microwave with convection is sleek and can heat up a mean queso dip! and some frozen quesadillas...
The oven is in place... and already has produced such lovely delicacies as toasted tortillas and a digorno pizza - The bev fridge has also arrived... straight from Germany, via NJ and Buffalo NY... Oooooooooo it's nice. Already stocked with a lovely array of beverages: diet pepsi, diet dr pepper, diet sierra mist... Oh, and yes, the alcohol: wine bottles and some Blue Moon, Magic Hat, and Miller Lite (that's pronounced 'lee-tay' in this kitchen... much sexier)
- The range hood is up... and has 6 fan settings... (she can go "from suck to blow!")
- But, alas, the cooktop is sitting there... in it's broken glory... from a mishap with our tile guy and the backsplash from recycled hell.... The new one should arrive this week....
- The cabinets are mostly up... except for 1-2 that got misplaced...
- The floating shelves next to the sink are going up next week.
We got the green light to move in this weekend... and that we did. We brought everything up from the basement, minus the glasses and dishes. Then we went to Sams and Harris Teeter to stock o' the shelves! (Man, I've never seen the GC so focused on food... but that is a new post for a new time...)
As an added bonus, the GC surprised me by having the guys move our dining room table and buffet into the actual dining room!! Imagine that!!
Now we're awash in our post-kitchen bliss. Sacked out on the couch. The GC, Ham, and I. Just in time, too, as we are all pretty exhausted from the reno business, including Ham.
That, my fellow BY Followers, is the State of the GM Kitchen, as of the 15th day in August, 2009.
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Daddy Got Paid!
Yup!!! Finally!!!!!! It's true!!!
After years and years... (decades actually) of school and med school and "on-the-job training" the Editor finally gets his due!
It's ABOUT FREAKIN TIME!!!
The BY now can rest easy in the knowledge that her Daddy can buy her some shoes.
Oh, and just in case you didn't believe me...
After years and years... (decades actually) of school and med school and "on-the-job training" the Editor finally gets his due!
It's ABOUT FREAKIN TIME!!!
The BY now can rest easy in the knowledge that her Daddy can buy her some shoes.
Oh, and just in case you didn't believe me...
GM Reno takes a turn for the better....
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Tick, Tick, Tick...
The Countdown has kicked into high gear.
The GC went to the OB yesterday.
She's "a little" effaced and dilated!
We've entered "pre-labor."
Oh God!
Stay tuned...
Sunday, August 09, 2009
BY Call
Well, as you've probably noticed, the postings here have gotten pretty slim. It seems that my new job takes me away from posting random pre-baby musings. There is a little more stress in our lives.
Some from our jobs. Some from the ever impending arrival of the BY.
(Take right now, for instance. 9:15pm. The GC has just finished lining the BY's dresser drawers. Now she is putting up some artwork. Ultra-nesting behavior!)
I, on the other hand, am dreading going to bed. It sort of freaks me out.
Why? Because every so often, the GC'll gets some contractions. "Ew!" she'll grunt in the middle of the night. This little exclamation somehow pierces my slumber, awakening me instantly. "What?!? You OK?" Hoping she'll say yes...
Then my mind starts to race feverishly... oh lawdy! This is it! Get up now! Wait, my hair is all a mess!! I can't go into the hospital looking like this! I can envision my hair: half stuck in the air on the right, half greasily matted down on the left. Sleep lines creasing my cheeks. Damn... my breath is bad too!! Man, what did I eat last night? How can Cheerios taste like that?!?!? Oh crap!! I drooled everywhere... Crust is lining my right cheek. Man, I really have to wash my face before we go in! But, I have to get the GC into the BWC-WCC before the BY crowns! Ew! That could get scary in the 4Runner!! (Hmmm... I wonder if I can turn it in for the Cash-for-Clunkers Program... probably not now.) Oh man! What am I going to do? Then, as I get more excited.... ew! I piddle a little....
"Yes... its gone now..."
Whew.... my heart, now going at 180 beats/minute lets out a huge sigh. But the damage has been done. I'm up now; wide awake. It'll take me forever to fall back asleep....
Before the next contraction comes...
And that is what it is like being on BY-call!
Some from our jobs. Some from the ever impending arrival of the BY.
(Take right now, for instance. 9:15pm. The GC has just finished lining the BY's dresser drawers. Now she is putting up some artwork. Ultra-nesting behavior!)
I, on the other hand, am dreading going to bed. It sort of freaks me out.
Why? Because every so often, the GC'll gets some contractions. "Ew!" she'll grunt in the middle of the night. This little exclamation somehow pierces my slumber, awakening me instantly. "What?!? You OK?" Hoping she'll say yes...
Then my mind starts to race feverishly... oh lawdy! This is it! Get up now! Wait, my hair is all a mess!! I can't go into the hospital looking like this! I can envision my hair: half stuck in the air on the right, half greasily matted down on the left. Sleep lines creasing my cheeks. Damn... my breath is bad too!! Man, what did I eat last night? How can Cheerios taste like that?!?!? Oh crap!! I drooled everywhere... Crust is lining my right cheek. Man, I really have to wash my face before we go in! But, I have to get the GC into the BWC-WCC before the BY crowns! Ew! That could get scary in the 4Runner!! (Hmmm... I wonder if I can turn it in for the Cash-for-Clunkers Program... probably not now.) Oh man! What am I going to do? Then, as I get more excited.... ew! I piddle a little....
"Yes... its gone now..."
Whew.... my heart, now going at 180 beats/minute lets out a huge sigh. But the damage has been done. I'm up now; wide awake. It'll take me forever to fall back asleep....
Before the next contraction comes...
And that is what it is like being on BY-call!
Wednesday, August 05, 2009
Guest Post #6: The World of Baby Yarnoz
By now, just about the only things people want to know from me as I waddle through my day are:1. Are you expecting? ("No, it's my cirrhosis out of control again.")
2. Is it a girl or a boy? ("It's a girl.")
3. When are you due? ("September 3rd, but if I stand here long enough listening to you describe every pea you've eaten in the last 7 days, I might just lay down and have it right here.")
4. Do you have a name? ("It's a secret... we're afraid to see a look of horror cross people's faces.")
5. Are you all finished with the nursery? ("Almost.")
We made some major progress this last weekend though, with the gifts finally being unwrapped. Kasel spoiled us with the mobile and bird print (among other things), and then even helped get the room organized (yes, she's an organizer too -- even sans bun in the oven... I've seen her alphabetized mega-CD collection). We finally got almost all of the other little prints of Paris and Barcelona (sorry, Pamplona!) up.
Thanks to everyone for the contributions. In case you were wondering if BY would be naked (or dressed all in brown, as Annette pointed out was a feature color on the registry), the answer is "no."
Actually, the BY will be decked out in pink flowered frilly clothes just like almost every other little girl in America, especially Madison and Sydney Strayhan. Yes, just as everyone expected, I cleverly have found a super-GC (also a freak organizer/cleaner) with better taste in fashion to dress the BY, who already has a closet full of clothes to last her from 0 - 18 months of age.So, never fear, all of you concerned future Aunties, Uncles, and Grans.... my fervor for gender neutrality will not be extended (much) to what the BY wears.... she'll always be dressed like a girl.
Monday, August 03, 2009
The Editor Says Goodbye!
Goodbye.... Summer of Mike.... How I never knew you....
Today marks the end of an era... the end of training... the end of being called a "student"... the end of being asked where the boss was... the end of trying to find an attending to talk about a patient with... the end of asking for approval... the end of counting the PGY (post-graduate years) on my badge... the end the end?
Today, I started my job.
Mainly to pay for the BY's shoes!
The day was a blur. I saw/met sooooo many new people and faces, and I have no idea who they were or what they do. I saw my office. I moved in some boxes (Some?!?! I hear the GC screaming... You need to bring all those damned boxes!!!!). I learned the computer system. (I think). I got some papers about coding... (oh gosh!)
But, thankfully, no one was harmed in making my first day. No patients were forced to partake.
That comes tomorrow!
The BY better enjoy her shoes!
Today marks the end of an era... the end of training... the end of being called a "student"... the end of being asked where the boss was... the end of trying to find an attending to talk about a patient with... the end of asking for approval... the end of counting the PGY (post-graduate years) on my badge... the end the end?
Today, I started my job.
Mainly to pay for the BY's shoes!
The day was a blur. I saw/met sooooo many new people and faces, and I have no idea who they were or what they do. I saw my office. I moved in some boxes (Some?!?! I hear the GC screaming... You need to bring all those damned boxes!!!!). I learned the computer system. (I think). I got some papers about coding... (oh gosh!)
But, thankfully, no one was harmed in making my first day. No patients were forced to partake.
That comes tomorrow!
The BY better enjoy her shoes!
Ahhh, the Ladies!
Yes, I am sorry again!! I seem to have forgotten all the loyal BY followers, and been very sparse with blogging. My bad.
Things have definitely picked up here in the BY Universe. Last weekend was the BY's Shower!
Oh yes... a weekend of just ladies... and the Editor!!! 5 courageous females braved the elements, the Atlanta airport, and the renovation disaster to spend the weekend with me... er... the BY and the GolfCart!
It was a great weekend for all. I did get to partake in some of the events, but the shower and beach events were only for the ladies.
Friday night was for arrivals. When the 5 finally arrived (damn Atl!!!), I whisked my harem off to the Bluewater Grille for some lovely outdoor dining. Booze flowed as well.... ahhh... My tolerance somehow increased to a lovely 2 Blue Moons for this evening! Yeah! Then I brought the harem back to the Green Machine, where we all went to bed...
Saturday was the shower. The AM consisted of lounging around the renovation nation, replete with little mexican painters! Yes, we brought a little taste of the renovation to the shower. (Editors note: These painters are great! Efficient. Good. They only use gigantic rollers. No spray painters. And, they're eerily quiet!) The ladies then went off to a lovely lunch at Cafe Phoenix. I stayed home with Ham and putzed around.
Then the ladies returned from their luncheon feast to open some presents! I, as the proud Editor/Donor/BabyDaddy, got to partake as well. Thank all for their lovely gifts. Now we have to put them away! Until September?
Then the gaggle decided to partake in some sunshine. Karen, unfortunately, had to return to Durham for prior engagements. (Come back soon!) So we all piled into the 4Runner to head to the beach. I put myself in the way-back for comfort. (Editors note: this is essentially the trunk of my truck. Ham's seat. I sat back there looking out through dried doggie nose and doggie drool as the cars passed by. Man, I have to clean this truck!) I dropped off the harem, and went to Panera to study.
2 hours later, I got the call to return. But this time, they decided to have dinner on the beach. A nice restaurant called The Oceanic, that actually serves their dinner outdoor on a pier. By the time I arrived, the GC had my Blue Moon ready to go! Man, what a wife!!! After a lovely dinner, we cruised home, with a stop at a local supermarket to pick up wine and ice cream. (Editors note: Picked up a Ben and Jerry's flavor: Stephen Colbert's Americone Dream... oh man! This might be the official BY ice cream, if it didn't already have a sponsor)
So there we were in the Green Machine, 5 lovely ladies, the Editor, and the Ham sitting around drinking wine, chatting, and eating ice cream.... ahhh.. Until midnight. Then bedtime!
Sunday, the 3 amigas (Annette, Sushma, and Sujatha) had to leave to catch a flight. Kasel got to pal around with the GC. Those loyal to the BY Universe knows what happens when you get alone with the GC- you get put to work! Next thing I knew, the GC and Kasel were in the Ocean bedroom to the last bastion of unpacking... the picture boxes. Woosh!!! Hurricane GC was back in full effect!!! Boxes and packing paper were strewn about! Man, can't this lady enjoy just 1 weekend!!! Nope!!!
Next thing I knew all the boxes were unpacked, the BY's mobile was on the wall, and they were trying to hang other paintings. Whew!!! Maybe the GC has met her match! I dutifully did my house husbandry... I took out the trash!
Then the Dynamic Duo went out to lunch, and to waddle around downtown Wilmington. I putzed around the house. But, alas, soon it was time for Kasel to leave as well.
All in all, we had a great weekend. The GC thoroughly enjoyed it. Although she was beat down at the end! She had eaten and consumed so much that her GERD flared up bigtime Sunday night. A small price to pay. The GC agreed.
Things have definitely picked up here in the BY Universe. Last weekend was the BY's Shower!
Oh yes... a weekend of just ladies... and the Editor!!! 5 courageous females braved the elements, the Atlanta airport, and the renovation disaster to spend the weekend with me... er... the BY and the GolfCart!
It was a great weekend for all. I did get to partake in some of the events, but the shower and beach events were only for the ladies.
Friday night was for arrivals. When the 5 finally arrived (damn Atl!!!), I whisked my harem off to the Bluewater Grille for some lovely outdoor dining. Booze flowed as well.... ahhh... My tolerance somehow increased to a lovely 2 Blue Moons for this evening! Yeah! Then I brought the harem back to the Green Machine, where we all went to bed...
Saturday was the shower. The AM consisted of lounging around the renovation nation, replete with little mexican painters! Yes, we brought a little taste of the renovation to the shower. (Editors note: These painters are great! Efficient. Good. They only use gigantic rollers. No spray painters. And, they're eerily quiet!) The ladies then went off to a lovely lunch at Cafe Phoenix. I stayed home with Ham and putzed around.
Then the ladies returned from their luncheon feast to open some presents! I, as the proud Editor/Donor/BabyDaddy, got to partake as well. Thank all for their lovely gifts. Now we have to put them away! Until September?
Then the gaggle decided to partake in some sunshine. Karen, unfortunately, had to return to Durham for prior engagements. (Come back soon!) So we all piled into the 4Runner to head to the beach. I put myself in the way-back for comfort. (Editors note: this is essentially the trunk of my truck. Ham's seat. I sat back there looking out through dried doggie nose and doggie drool as the cars passed by. Man, I have to clean this truck!) I dropped off the harem, and went to Panera to study.
2 hours later, I got the call to return. But this time, they decided to have dinner on the beach. A nice restaurant called The Oceanic, that actually serves their dinner outdoor on a pier. By the time I arrived, the GC had my Blue Moon ready to go! Man, what a wife!!! After a lovely dinner, we cruised home, with a stop at a local supermarket to pick up wine and ice cream. (Editors note: Picked up a Ben and Jerry's flavor: Stephen Colbert's Americone Dream... oh man! This might be the official BY ice cream, if it didn't already have a sponsor)
So there we were in the Green Machine, 5 lovely ladies, the Editor, and the Ham sitting around drinking wine, chatting, and eating ice cream.... ahhh.. Until midnight. Then bedtime!
Sunday, the 3 amigas (Annette, Sushma, and Sujatha) had to leave to catch a flight. Kasel got to pal around with the GC. Those loyal to the BY Universe knows what happens when you get alone with the GC- you get put to work! Next thing I knew, the GC and Kasel were in the Ocean bedroom to the last bastion of unpacking... the picture boxes. Woosh!!! Hurricane GC was back in full effect!!! Boxes and packing paper were strewn about! Man, can't this lady enjoy just 1 weekend!!! Nope!!!
Next thing I knew all the boxes were unpacked, the BY's mobile was on the wall, and they were trying to hang other paintings. Whew!!! Maybe the GC has met her match! I dutifully did my house husbandry... I took out the trash!
Then the Dynamic Duo went out to lunch, and to waddle around downtown Wilmington. I putzed around the house. But, alas, soon it was time for Kasel to leave as well.
All in all, we had a great weekend. The GC thoroughly enjoyed it. Although she was beat down at the end! She had eaten and consumed so much that her GERD flared up bigtime Sunday night. A small price to pay. The GC agreed.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)