Christmas.. all that work and over so quickly..

It is amazing, all that prep for about 1/2 hour of unwrapping.. Katelyn was rather unimpressed with unwrapping. She would rip one strip of paper at a time so mommy and daddy had to unwrap most of her gifts. She was very excited to find new toys though.. 

It was a nice Christmas, busy and full of food, family, and fun. I got a new coat and boots. Ben also got me more beads for my bracelet. He did a marvelous job with the Christmas gifts.. 

Katelyn got lots of noisy toys and some clothes. We have to go through and thin out the toys downstairs and move the less used toys upstairs to make room for the new ones.. 

Noah got mostly clothes--which is good since he is only 8 weeks old.. WOW how time flies.. 


Z

Santa visit.

A few weeks ago we took the kids to see Santa.. here are some pics

It's almost Christmas

Wow, Christmas has really come upon us quickly, it is hard to believe it is 4 days away. Many may suggest that I have been a bit busy as of late, having a baby 7 weeks ago and chasing Katelyn and all, but that is no excuse to lose track of time like that.. 

For the first time though, we have are shopping for others finished, including the kids. Katelyn's gifts are all wrapped except and outfit. Noah is only getting an outfit and maybe some socks since he won't remember this year anyway.. I still have to go finish up Ben's presents.. Hopefully will be doing that tomorrow morning before he goes to work.. it is too hard to take the kids to the mall by myself.. 


In other news, I developed carpel tunnel during pregnancy that seems to have gone away. However, I have recently developed some extreme knuckle pain in my thumb on my right hand. Not good if you are right handed and must change diapers, kids, and do anything.. It is amazing how often you use your thumb.. My joint was clicking and locking so I saw a Doctor yesterday.. I have trigger finger in my thumb.. I am not sure how it came about, especially since I don't text a lot, nor do I play video games..   I had a cortisone shot in my knuckle that "should" work. If it doesn't, I need a booster in 3 weeks. If that doesn't work, it is deal with it or surgery.. Fortunately, I have already felt relief with this first shot.. 

will update after Christmas. 

Z

Where has the year gone..

What a year it has been.. Katelyn turned one, has learned to crawl, is attempting to walk (but prefers crawling since it is faster for her right now), and is becoming more and more sassy.. 

Noah joined us on Halloween and life has been a whirlwind since.. Katelyn is not sure what to think of the boy that has taken over her house.. but she is pretty good for a child that has not had to share her world until recently. .

Thanksgiving was a success, we had close friends over and shared a small (number wise) dinner and great company. It was a far cry from the chaos of previous years at Ben's aunts, but it was quite nice, nonetheless. 

Christmas is fast approaching, as I  have realized there are only 2 more weekends until the Big guy in Red comes to visit and we still need to shop.. argh..  happens every year.. 

We did pick up this years special ornaments though. One for each of the kids and one for the family. The tree is down from the rafters and ready to go up on Monday.. We will also be getting a real tree at some point soon. It will be fun to see how many times I have to chase Katelyn away from the trees.. 

We are prepping for the arrival of St. Nick on Tuesday.. It is a tradition that Ben's family has observed.. St. Nick comes on Dec. 6th and fills the kids stockings.. Santa doesn't fill them on Christmas Eve.. Since in my family Santa always filled them on Christmas Eve, we will be observing both traditions this year and in future years.. 


We had the kids holiday pictures taken and as always, Katelyn was a ham. She cried when we left because she didn't want to leave. 


And who said kids are afraid of Santa? Not my child, she loved him.. We saw Santa yesterday and Katelyn is a big fan of the big guy in red.. 

Z

Baby Noah

Sorry it took so long to post this. Noah Matthew was born on Halloween via repeat C-section at 9:20am. He spent 3 days in the special care nursery because he was having trouble keeping his blood sugars up.. it was hard to see him hooked to the IV and the monitors, but I knew he would be ok.

We both left the hospital after 3 days and have been doing well ever since.. Recovery is much easier the second time around. Fortunately Ben was home to help with Katelyn.

Katelyn has been a trooper through it all. She is learning to be gentle and says something that sounds kind of like Noah when she talks to baby brother..




More updates to follow..

Z

Noah Matthew arrived 10/31/11

Baby Noah was born on Halloween weighing in at 7lbs 14 oz and 20 inches long.. I will post more about it as we just got home yesterday


Z

L&D trip, urine collection, and low platelets.. oh my..

So this is week 36. Blood pressure was pretty high at MFM so had to go to L &D to do a protein dip and be monitored.. Blood work and protein came back ok so I had to do a 24 hour urine collection and more blood work.. we shall see how it turns out.. 

Baby is measuring over 8lbs already so big.. 

I will update as I get more info..


Z

low titers=good news...

After a week and a half, finally had the proper blood test done.. Titers for Anti-C came back at less than 1 which is good.. that means I am not making antibodies against the baby at this point.. which is a good time.. 

BPP went ok,, long again,. ARGH>. and the NST was unresponsive.. too bad the baby  was moving on the way to the hospital for the tests.. 

It is hard to believe just one more month and this little one will be here.. 

Z

33 weeks.. and 6 to go.. errr maybe 5...

So today was the MFM appointment the baby looked good, still measuring in the 96th %tile in weight etc.. his "gestimated" weight is 5lb 15oz.. bear in mind this can be + or - 1 to 2 lbs..  but so far measuring more than Katelyn weighed at 37 weeks.. he seems to be gaining about 1/2lb a week.. 

At the last MFM appointment I was told that I had antibody C in my blood that showed up during the antibody screening.. What this means is at some point during delivery of Katelyn or in this pregnancy there was some maternal/fetal blood mixing and one or both of them have the Antigen C in their blood..  So despite getting the RhoGam shot last time, (It only works against antigen D..) I will have the chance of my body attacking the blood of this and future babies.... Ben is a carrier and there is a 50% chance that this baby and future babies will be carriers.. 

The good news.. my titers last time were low and we will be following them every 2 to 3 weeks until delivery.. so far the baby is not showing any signs of this being an issue.. so that is terrific news.. if they go up it may be more of a worry.. 

Doc says that in most cases they like to deliver at 38 weeks... but we are going to keep an eye on me and the baby and we may make it to our schedule at 39 weeks.. 

Z

Anniversaries and NST's

Yesterday was our two year anniversary.. it was really nice to have dinner out and go to a movie with Ben.. I know it will be harder to do such things when the new little one is born.. 

Today we had an NST.. as with the last few, it took a little longer than usual.. Today I was having regular contractions that I am not feeling. Midwife sent us home with our usual instructions, if anything changes come back.. 

Z

32 weeks down, 7 to go,.....

So today I am officially 32 weeks, we have a c-section scheduled for 39 weeks.. I only hope we make it that far... 

Week 2 of NST's and BPP went ok.. NST at docs office went well.. Bpp, I believe went well.. according to the tech the baby looked great.. he was very active so it made it hard to get a few things she needed, but I am glad he is active.. 

The NST wasn't as great since he entered a sleep cycle right after we started the test.. he did eventually cooperate on his own fortunately, but at 20 minute test took an hour... argh.. 

Left that NST a little confused because they originally wanted me back in 2 days. (doc that never saw me).. then they settled on 3 (monday).. but I told them I would come monday but it will throw off my already scheduled NST's/bpp's/dr appts. since I am on a tuesday/friday schedule.. 

it was decided that Tuesday was ok.. I can only assume that since this doc had not seem me (and never even came and talked to me.. Midwife said there was nothing alarming on the strip... ).. that she didn't realize I was already coming twice weekly.. oh well.. will try to get clarification on tuesday.. 

Haven't heard anything new about the antibodies.. I was told the testing takes a while... 

Z

Early mornings = tired mommy

Katelyn decided that 5:45 was time to get up this morning... Mommy, not so much... at least she is napping now.. We have had a busy morning.. Dropped to car off to get the bumper repaired... actually replaced.. and an NST this afternoon. Laundry is drying in the dryer.. 

We have a goal date for Lil boy's birthday.. It is hard to believe that it is almost October already.. 


Katelyn is into everything., climbing the stairs and trying to climb on the furniture.. If she sees something she wants she goes for it.. 


Z

some people should not drive...

I am a firm believer that some people should not drive.. this includes the dimwit who rear-ended Katelyn and I yesterday.  He wasn't going fast, but didn't stop into time to not hit us.. Fortunately the only thing hurt was the car. I spent 4 hours hooked to monitors just to make sure... 

it was this guys second accident in as many weeks.. hmm sounds like he needs some driver's ed.. 

All is well though, just have to get the car fixed and a new car seat for Katelyn... 


Z

if it isn't one thing, it's another....

Visited the MFM today to check on #2's growth, brain etc.. because of the PIH (Pregnancy induced hypertension) and GD.. well he is getting big.. he is already 4lbs 7oz and we aren't even 30 weeks yet.. he gained a pound and a half in 3 weeks--ouch.. 

that is the good, the probably ok but maybe not good, I had antibody screening done last week so I could have my RhoGam shot.. Turns out i have antigens for antibody C in my blood. Since i haven't had a blood transfusion, this means at some point my blood and the baby's blood have already mixed and I may be making antibodies that attack the baby's red blood cells... 

it is something that we will be following. I will have monthly titers drawn and we will continue to watch the baby... can be a little scary, but seems that it is nothing to be alarmed about for now.. will keep all posted..

z

Who stole summer.... ?

So, it was almost 100 last weekend and now it is not even 70. Fortunately my maternity jeans from last year still fit.. however, I do realize that is going to be a long 7-10 weeks if the weather turns and stays cool. I may have to break down and get another pair of jeans. I have  pair of dress pants but those aren't for chasing cute 1year olds around... 

Tomorrow we go back to the MFM for our last appointment before starting our biweekly testing.. should be fun.. it is at 8 in the morning and I will be up at the crack of dawn so I can pick up my eldest niece along to way so she can keep an eye on Katelyn.. should be fun... 

Being almost 30 weeks pregnant has brought a decrease in my sleep. I have been having trouble being comfortable.. My belly is much bigger than it was last year when I delivered Katelyn.. I did say I wanted to at least look pregnant this time.... 

Will update after appt tomorrow.. 
Z
 

You are 1 today...

So, today, my dear sweet baby has turned one today... it seems like just yesterday I was in the hospital having her.  It is crazy how quickly they grow up. 

We had her party yesterday and she was a trooper. She had fun and enjoyed her cake and presents. However, Katelyn was  more interested in the paper and the bows than the presents. 


It is amazing to look back and see how much she has changed and how much she has learned in the past year. She is an amazing and funny little girl. I am so blessed. 

Happy Birthday Katelyn We love you very much


Z

Number 2 looking large...

So we went to the MFM today and had a peek at #2, even in 3D.. What a cutie... anyway, since the the doc didn't mention anything about the right ventricle of the brain, we are going with the no news is good news.. I am assuming all looked well.. 

Baby is measuring about 3 weeks ahead.. so he is measuring about 3lbs already at 26weeks 4days.. Doc says we will watch growth, but didn't seem too worried that it was GD related.. Says the baby is big in general, not just chubby.. (limbs and head measuring ahead too.)..

It is good to get some good news... 

Katelyn is getting big too. She has figured out how to climb stairs.. not walking yet, but moving well along the furniture... She can get up to the 4th step so far.. that means we have to figure out how to block the stairs since I am not certain that we can get a gate to block the bottom.. 

I am just thankful that the door was put up to the basement.. she is a quick one.. 

 
Z

Where has the year gone..

It has been a crazy, busy summer, and it seems to have flown by.. 

I realize that in 2 weeks, Katelyn is going to be 1.. WOW.. time has flown, it seems like just yesterday we were bringing home our peanut.. 

and now she is a giant, happy, silly girl... 

 it has been truly enjoyable to watch her discover her world.. She is a joy.. 

Z

24+ weeks.. and other nonsense.

Well, we are officially well into the 24th week of this pregnancy and so far I still feel pretty good. I have the GD (gestational diabetes) under control and my blood pressure has been pretty good as well.. I am showing which is odd to say since I never really showed with Katelyn.. It is kind of cool. 

We are getting ready to go to a State Park and camp, just Katelyn, Ben and I tomorrow. It will be very fun. We plan on relaxing, going to the beach and just doing nothing really except enjoying the outdoors. Also, we will hunt down ice cream at some point.. (can't camp and not find ice cream.. )

Z

UP North Camping..

So the family piled into a car with friends and headed back up north to the UP to camp and see the sights.  We visited Tahquamenon Falls and Whitefish Point. and Mackinaw City. We had a blast.. 

Katelyn was an angel.. several people complimented us on her as she was not one of those crying loud babies.. Of course every time she was complimented she had to "show off" and cry for a bit.. 


Camping was fun, but sleeping on the ground on an air mattress that you share with your husband and 11 month old is not ideal for a pregnant woman.. but I survived.. 


The Mackinac Bridge.. 

                                                 
                                                      Katelyn in Lake Huron
 

                                                     Above, helping with the tent, Below, enjoying camp..

                       
                                           Lake Superior is not that cold.. Let me play..

 In other news, we are still on a wait and see about baby #2's ventricle of his brain.. there was a little more fluid in the last ultrasound, but doctor didn't seem ultra concerned yet. Just waiting and watching.. he is so far a big baby in the 97+ percentile for his gestational age... 

Z

Boy is it hot..

Wow, I missed a lot on bed rest last summer. I know it was hot in July, but i rarely had the chance to go out and enjoy or even feel it.. 

I have to admit, as much as I dislike extreme heat, I am enjoying this summer a lot more.. had a great trip to Kentucky and we are going camping this weekend in the UP with friends this weekend.. 

I am looking forward to it, despite the long drive. The UP is beautiful and has lots to do.. Camping while almost 23 weeks pregnant is going to be interesting and I am sure I won't sleep well, but I am going to have fun. It will be Katelyn's first camping experience so that will be an adventure. 

I have my appointment with the MFM on Thursday, we will find out how the fluid around his left ventricle of his brain is. Hopefully it hasn't increased because it was in the normal range at the 17 week u/s.. and we are just watching it.. he is a very active bugger.. 

here are some pics from Kentucky .. 

Z

Long road trips with a 10 month old...

So we went to Kentucky last week to visit friends and family and had a blast. I must say that I have the most amazing child. She only had 2 meltdowns in the car the whole trip and each we were within an hour of our destination.. 

She probably got lonely in the back seat facing the seat. Not much going on there.. But she was a trooping.. However I do think we may have started a few "traditions" that we will have to break.. Like throwing cheerios over the seat to calm her down etc.. oh well. she was great.. 

Only one more long trip this summer and it is just as far but we aren't even leaving the state.. This should be easier because she won't be along in the back.. She will have company.. 

Vacation is great, but it throws Katelyn off schedule and she won't sleep in the pack n play. something I am intensely trying to work on this week since our next trip involves camping and it is hard to share an air mattress with her and Ben.. 

While in Kentucky we went on the Bourbon Trail, it was interesting and Ben really enjoyed it.. There is some beautiful country there. Too bad it was so hot and humid.. 

Z

Up North and other adventures..

So we went up north last weekend and were supposed to camp for two nights by Lake Michigan. It drizzled much of the first two days we were there. Fortunately we have a friend who has a cabin near where we were planning on going and were invited to stay.. 

Katelyn had many adventures while we were gone and proved to be a great traveler.. No one likes to be trapped in the car for five hours... but she was a trooper.. 

We visited Colonial Michilimackinac in Mackinaw City and crossed over to the UP. We went to the Soo Locks and were able to see several boats go through the locks up close.. It was the one day of the year that you could cross over and go in between the locks.. 

Katelyn also had her first ferry ride over to Mackinac Island. She seemed to really enjoy it and loved the Island. (or maybe it was the ice cream....).. 

It was a great vacation, only too short.. now to plan our visit to Kentucky then back to the UP with our good friends to see the falls and White Fish Point... 

 

IT'S a BOY

Well, we had our anatomy scan yesterday at the MFM. It's a boy, and we couldn't be more excited..  Of course, we would be excited if the baby were a girl too, but it is nice to know that we will have one of each. 

Everything looks good for the most part. The baby is growing well and has all his parts.. but they find a soft marker for Downs. Well it could be a soft marker for Downs, or an indication that I have had the CMV virus at some point during this pregnancy. Since with either there is nothing that can be down, we have continued to decline testing. What they found was a little extra fluid around a ventricle of the brain. The level is within the normal range of <10 mm. The measurement was 8mm.. so it really is just a watch and see. 

We were through this before with Katelyn. On her first ultrasound she had 2 soft markers that were watched and they went away.. 

After doing a little research, yes it is still in the back of my mind, the odds are in baby boy's favor that all will be good. 

Z

It's hot, let's go swimming..

Took Katelyn to the pool for the 2nd time this year. Last time we were in Frankenmuth and she was too tired to care.. 

Today she LOVED it.. it was like she had a BIG bathtub to play in.. Too bad she wore herself out.. 

Life is too short sometimes...

Facebook is a wonderful tool, however, sometimes it brings terribly sad news that reminds us of our own mortality. 

Today I found out that one of my best friends from elementary, middle, and high school has died. As of right now, I do not have the details but judging from some responses to the post it was a complete surprise. 

It has me remembering simpler times of childhood and hoping my children have the opportunity to have such good friends in their lives. We used to play superheros in his backyard with our good friends Amy and Laura who lived next door. In fact, if it weren't for Amy and Laura, I would not have known Mikey until we were in middle school since he went to the catholic school. He was a good listener and a good friend.. never judging.. 

The news has me sad and wondering what happened. Hoping that his family finds peace. It also reminds me that life is short and we need to live life to the fullest. 

Mikey, you will be missed.... 

Z

Lazy saturdays..

The only thing missing from this lazy Saturday is Ben.. He has to work.. It is starting to get steamy outside but I am enjoying a lazy day inside.. other than a trip to the grocery store.. 

Katelyn loves going to the store now that she gets to sit in the cart and make faces at all the people. She is the life of the store.. I just need to figure out how to stop her from trying to eat everything she can reach.. hmmm.. 

Katelyn had her 9 month checkup.. and my little peanut is a giant now.. she has gone from hardly being on the growth chart to being in the 75th percentile. She is almost 20lbs now.. (probably 20 by now, she was 2 oz shy at her appt) and the nurse measured her wrong, but that's ok I know she is a long one.. 

It is hard to believe that she is 9 months old and her birthday is around the corner..... 

Z

Days with nothing to do are grand....

After spending most of the day in the car yesterday helping friends move, it was nice to have a day with nothing to do... 

I was so proud of my little Katelyn, she was so good after being in the car the better part of 7 hours (not in a row). She didn't meltdown until there was about 45 minutes left.. and to be honest I think we were all on the verge of a meltdown but lacked the good fortune of being 9 month's old and having a good excuse. 

Today was a "lazyish" day spent visiting Katelyn's Great Grandma and having dinner with Grandma (my mom). 

I always relish watching Katelyn interact with her Great Grandparents, they are all so happy to be Great Grandparents. Great Grandma got down on the floor and stacked up these pegs and Katelyn would roll over and knock them down.. it was so sweet.

I am looking forward to a good day tomorrow.. too bad Ben is working. But we have a BBQ at my brothers and the prospect of meeting our new niece.. should be fun 

Z

good bye french fries and my favorite carbs..

So today I went to the MFM (maternal fetal medicine doc) and had a good experience. After last year I needed a nicer doctor. My pregnancy with Katelyn was medically a rough one I guess--at least that is what everyone tells me.. Seems the whole world worried and prayed the whole time. Me, I felt great, I was eating good and feeling good, despite being on bed-rest etc.. 

Well, got good news, baby looks good, measuring a week ahead though and with my history of gestational diabetes, doc is slightly concerned and wants me to check my blood sugars four times daily and go back on the gestational diabetes diet. (UGH.. bye bye fries).. what can you do.. ?

Bottom line, I will do it, cut my carbs and watch what I eat.. advantage--- I won't gain a ton of weight.. 

here's to a healthy baby.. 

Z

Jury duty, flats.. oh what a life...

Ugh, it is so frustrating to have jury duty in general, but to be "on call" for 2 weeks is especially frustrating, especially when you have a child to take care of.. well.. only 6 more times to call I guess.. Since I am on call for 2 weeks.. 

What a week it has been.. Monday Katelyn and I were on our way back from the grocery store with supplies for a BBQ for Ben's birthday and hit a pothole.. If the sound of a balloon deflating was not enough to tell me my tire was flat, my car started beeping at me and flashing messages that there was low tire pressure.. (DUH)

As my mom says, god watches out for small children and fools.. well I am assuming it was Katelyn he was watching out for since I don't consider myself a fool. I was able to pull into a parking lot and call AAA to change my tire.. It was changed within 25 minutes of my phone call.. and I didn't lose any of the groceries we bought.... 

Z

Spring has finally sprung.. (I hope)

Today was a beautiful day for the most part. We finally got out the patio furniture and the umbrella for the table.. Katelyn and I took a nice long walk around the neighborhood.. it was terrific 

 She was styling in her hat and shades.... (and sunscreen of course)... 

Z

Will the human pin cushion please stand up..... ?

At least that is how I feel.. Yesterday I had to take a three hour glucose test and they poked me 5 times to get 4 vials of blood... my arms hurt... this is after giving 8 vials of blood last week.. 

things I found out.. I passed the glucose test (for now..) yippee... that means I can have a little freedom with my food choices for another 8 weeks... It sucks to be overweight and have had gestational diabetes in the past.. 

I need to start taking vitamin D.. apparently my levels came back at 22 and normal is over 50... so It was pretty low.. hey what is one more vitamin to take... 

Katelyn and Ben got my beautiful flowers for Mother's day.. I know it is not until Sunday but he had the delivered yesterday it was so sweet... 

Z

hair cuts and date night..

So, I got my hair cut for the first time since October I think.. It was after Katelyn was born, I took my sis with me so that she could watch Katelyn.. hmm so yeah like 6 months or so.. it feels good to be a little lighter and maybe my hair will be a little healthier.. 

Tonight is date night.. YAY.. I love spending time with my family, but it is nice to go out with my husband once in a while. We are going to see a play and have dinner.. Fried pickles please!.. 

I am looking forward to it.. And an exciting/fun weekend ahead.. Supposed to be warm and nice weather tomorrow. We have a get together for a cousins b-day and my graduation for EMU.. ! should be fun.. 

Z

rain rain go away

You have to love Michigan, snow last week, rain this week. except yesterday was supposed to be rainy and it was nice and sunny.. 

We took Katelyn to the Natural history museum. I can say she was not overly enthusiastic about it, but she was curious. We wanted to go to the zoo, but the forecast called for some severe weather midday so we decided an indoor activity was best... it was just nice to do something as a family. It has been a while, since it was hard to do during student teaching.. 

today the windows were coming but there are supposed to be periods of heavy downpours and the chalk won't set properly so we rescheduled... too bad I was up most of the night and up early for them to come.. 

Z

Officially done with student teaching.. and other things..

I officially passed student teaching and will be recommended for certification.. all GOOD!!.. 

The painter is almost done with the first floor.. not sure if I love the color in the back of the house.. it is more yellow than I had anticipated, but I can live with it.. we just won't be doing the accents we originally planned for.. The front of the house is a nice blue.. we will be adding a chair rail and another color to the dining room to add a little pop and separation to the living room/ dining room area.. 

So after a year and a half, the house is coming together and going to be more like OUR place.. no more faint almost indistinguishable pink left.. the only pink is in K's room!!!

it is sad however, when the painter gets to the house before you are up (and you get up at 5:45am) but he wanted to be done early today after missing Monday.. 

I am looking forward to the crazy weekend with Easter and family... 

have a safe holiday!

Z

It's been awhile..

I am back, and hopefully can keep this up with a little more frequency.. Student teaching is over.. YAY.. I took my certification exam which I think has not relevance to how much I know about science since I think about half of it was non-science related questions.. 

The downstairs is being painted this week.. I hope.. the painter came, prepped everything then got called to have more bloodwork for a procedure he is having after Easter.. Said he may be back today, but will definitely be back tomorrow.. Which means I can actually leave the house today.. 

Drawback.. IT IS SNOWING.. REALLY? it is April and it is snowing. UGH.. but then that is how it goes around here.. 

We were looking forward to barbecuing this week.. hopefully the weather gets a little more like spring.. 

Katelyn is rolling around exploring things trying to figure out how things work and taste.. Everything goes in her mouth.. so beware if she grabs your hand.. she has some sharp teeth... 

have a great day, Z

just 2 more weeks..

argh, the last few weeks have been hectic with teaching my unit and grading everything and trying to stay sane. Fortunately my unit is done.. now I have to figure out how to explain the discrepancy in test scores among the hours.. one hour had only 55% passing my test.. the obvious reason. they weren't paying attention when I gave the answers the day before and the quick pre-test review. Not to mention NO ONE retook the test when the opportunity was given. 

Unfortunately, I have to take some of the blame since I was unable to get some students to pay attention in class. Some didn't copy down the answers the day before. it is frustrating.. 

In other news, Katelyn is doing good, she had an ear infection and a bad cough. Both are going away now.. She is such a happy funny baby.. :) always doing fun things and yelling at me when I am not paying attention to her. 

Just two more weeks of student teaching.. I can't wait.. 

Sorry it has been a while...

Student teaching has been very challenging.  Fortunately I finished teaching my unit today. I got a great message from a student today thanking me for preparing her for the test and for being a good teacher.. I am going to have to thank her because she re-affirmed why I am going into teaching in the first place.. 
 
In other news, Katelyn's first tooth is definitely the star of her mouth and it seems there will be another one following shortly. She is sitting on her own and "talking" up a storm.. She is getting soooo big.. 


Z

5 more weeks..

I would be lying if I said that I wished the next five weeks went slowly. In fact they can move as fast as time can fly... Although I am enjoying student teaching, it is a LOT of work and has been challenging.. 

Katelyn is getting big, she did pretty well with her shots this time and doesn't have to go back for 3 months YAY>. it is so hard to see her when she gets a shot.. she goes from all smiles to screeching baby in 2 seconds flat... BUT she is definitely back to her old self after the cold she had.. she is sticking her tongue out all the time.. 

Also, she is in the 50th percentile for her weight, a far cry from where she started (the 3rd percentile). . she is now 16lbs 4oz.. and almost 27 inches long.. GO KATELYN...


Z

Vacation is over, back to reality..

It was nice to be off for a week, now that that is over, back to student teaching for the next 8 weeks. It is almost over, for that I am grateful. This week starts the teaching of my unit that I have planned and created just for this experience.. I am looking forward to it, but I wish I could have gotten more done over break. Time seems to fly quickly when you are off.. 

Katelyn has had a cold for the last week. We visited the pediatrician who said since she isn't running a fever we have to let it run its course. It is hard to tell that to a 6 month old who is coughing and stuffy and miserable.

So today I am finishing up my odds and ends for this week of my unit and hanging with a miserable baby that won't nap because whenever she relaxes she coughs uncontrollably then cries... At least she seems happy..

At least it is getting warmer and no snow today, maybe spring is around the corner (I hope).. 

Science jeopardy

What a day today was. I had my second observation of my student teaching. I had the students engaged in a game of Science Jeopardy. Man that took a long time to put together but was well worth it. It seemed I had actively learning students.. what a FUN experience.. 

I am however, looking forward to next weeks break. I need to catch up on some zzz's and spend time with my family. I do have to finalize my lesson plans for my unit.. it should be a good one I hope. 

Z

Busy busy busy

Who knew student teaching, being a wife, and a new mom would be so demanding.. I love my life, and I mean that. I just wish there were about 2 more hours in the day... but hey, I have always thrived with a deadline.. that is why I got my first degree in journalism... 

We just have to get Katelyn to understand that she can't drool on the papers mommy is correcting and that baby spit is not good for the laptop's keyboard.. She is trying to help, maybe when she can read. 

I must say that I love spending my day off with my precious little one. especially now that we are learning new tricks.. the latest is sticking out her tongue.. it is the new hi... 

:)

Z

what a morning...

Really, is it me or do people not know how to drive when they are reporting spin outs all over the freeway.. REALLY.. 

Driving I-94 today was a joke. Spin outs everywhere, yet there were some who insisted on driving 90mph down the road.. UGH.. 

I saw more spin outs than I want to see EVER.. Including one that was 5 feet in front of me.. fortunately I was able to stop and was paying attention. I was pretty rattled the rest of my trip, luckily I was getting off the freeway at the next exit.. 

It's Michigan, and it is winter. Slick roadways are nothing new.. but I have to admit spring can't come soon enough. 

In other news....

Katelyn can roll from front to back... 

I taught all day today.. To say the least it was an experience. I think 4th hour had their disciplinary pages signed more than normal, but they would  not stop talking and listen. I even had to pull the old teacher, "you are wasting my time so you WILL stay after the bell." Oh and I did keep them after the bell.. they didn't like it. But I can;t give empty threats. 

I have to say a lot of work goes into teaching the children of the world and I can honestly say I never gave my teachers enough credit growing up... 

Z

SNOW DAY #2

Ahh, the only thing that would have made today's snow day better is if I had found out BEFORE I took my shower. But I am not complaining, it is another day to spend with Katelyn!.. 

I didn't realize how much I missed being with her all day until I got to spend a week day with her and to get to spend two.. BONUS!. She and I had quite a lot of fun yesterday, tummy time, playing, singing, reading.. and best of all NAPPING.. I miss my afternoon naps with her. I know it is probably not a good habit to get into but I need a nap too sometimes. 

Well the "blizzard" of 2011 (snowmageddon.,.. etc) only dropped about 9 inches in my area.. Still a lot and the roads still sucked last night (the highways were in good shape I understand though..).. I have seen more snow, but this is the most this winter so far.. 

I have the best husband in the world since he will not "let" me shovel snow.. :).. 

Z

Looked into a daycare on Friday...

As you may know, I am student teaching pretty much through the end of April, which means I am not able to stay at home with Katelyn, something I had the luxury of doing for four months. But since I want to finish my teacher certification, I must plug away. 

We have been fortunate to have some good friends of the family and family members take care of Katelyn while I have been student teaching, but have to find other arrangements now do to schedule changes etc.. 

The thought of taking Katelyn to daycare scares me, you hear horror stories, but unfortunately it is a necessary evil. So I checked out a place that came highly recommended. I have to admit I was pleasantly surprised. They are licensed for 13 infants but only take 8 so they can give the necessary care. They change diapers every 1 to 1&1/2 hours. MORE often than I do, which I like. I hate when people say "oh that diaper is only a LITTLE wet." AND they will do cloth diapers<--that is an added bonus. 

It seems like a place where Katelyn will be well taken care of and have lots of little friends to play with, even if it only is for a few months. But, if it goes well and I can get a job for September, we will have experience with daycare and it may make it easier if it is more permanent. 

On a less fun note, it looks like we are in line to get double digit snow Tuesday night... think I will be praying for a snowday on Wednesday. 

Z

Katelyn

Ah SNOW.. I hate snow--especially since we have had a lot of little storms so it seems like we are always dealing with it.

Today we took Katelyn out in the snow, she really was not sure how she felt about the cold white stuff.

But she does like her toys... 

Z

Wow its been awhile

It has been a while and I have been busy. Who knew student teaching would be so much work. One night this week I was up until midnight grading papers and still had to grade some in the morning. But that is because I have 160 students and asked them for complete sentences. 

It is odd what 7th graders think and how they explain things. For example, reproduction: all living things must reproduct. Huh? really?

We are working on bullying awareness and it is upsetting that most of my students don't know the difference between harmless teasing and mean-spirited bullying. Even those students who get bullied don't seem to know the difference.. UGH..  calling an overweight person SLIM is NOT right. Also calling a tall person SHORTY is not right.. 

This weekend will be filled with a lot of work. I have to get a lot of my unit finished while B is working.. 

Z

Wednesday... half way through the week!

Today was my first half-day because they are having midterms. Thankfully, there is only more more day of midterms. Friday is a work day. I am excited about this because I finally get a chance to start in on the planning. 

The new semester brings on life science. We are starting basic with the age old question, what is an organism? And what makes something alive? I am excited and horrified at the potential answers. This is only because after many days of review, some students still thought Oxygen was a noble non-reactive gas. Hmm how do we get water?


I have been thoroughly disappointed in the lack of motivation and the attitudes of the seventh graders.. I don't remember being like that or having people that bad.


Z

Sunday sunny Sunday

Why is it that the weekends always fly by so quickly? At least I have one more day after today thanks to MLK day.. 

I have been pretty productive today and have run two loads of laundry and the diapers are in the wash. Yes, the diapers are in the wash. K uses clothe diapers most of the time. She only uses disposables when she is at E's. She looks so cute in them and they are environmentally friendly!

Taking over....

Today, I got to take over three classes. It was lab day.. I learned a few things that I need to improve upon. Firstly, it is surprising growing up in a large family that I do not have  LOUD voice. I need to learn to project my voice and demand attention without raising/going into a high pitched yell. 

Secondly, I need to wait until the entire class is quiet until I talk since the students in the back could not hear me talk over the talkers. 

Thirdly, there is always that student who is trying to "help" by being obnoxiously loud repeating your instructions. 

And lastly, no matter how many times you explain to a class to read the directions BEFORE starting, someone will not and definitely mess up. 

All in all, it went well. I need to improve on my techniques and learn to adapt when things don't seem to go well from one class to another. 

I am looking forward to another day.. and a three day weekend. !

Snowy days..

So, it is only a little over a week into student teaching and I am SOOOOOO sick of snow.. UGH.. I hope the roads aren't terrible in the morning since I have to take K to the sitter. 

Seminar wasn't terrible today, but it was pretty much a waste of time.. today we look over handouts he had given us in  meetings.. 

I must say it was nice to take a nap with K this evening when I got home. She didn't nap for grandma.. 

 

Survived week 1--- beat, Lets go roller skating..

Ok, so I have decided that student teaching is going to be a long, tiring, and rewarding experience.. I am BEAT today.. I feel like I want to curl up under a blanket with a book not related to science.. However, B and I are taking little M to skate night for her school. It will be fun, too bad I miss K and want to see her. OH yeah, I feel like I have been hit by a truck.. my bones ache.. UGH!.. could be mastitis from not pumping during the day, BUT I think it is the cold my CT has been fighting all week.. 

On a good note (i guess)  I have my first observation date and am looking forward to planning with my CT.. I really enjoy the students there is such a diverse group maturity levels, ethnicity's etc. It seems like it will continue to be an enjoyable situation.. 

I hopefully will get a lot done this weekend for my unit.  I am trying to get it done early so that I don't have to worry about it.. 

When B gets home it is off to rollerskate then get K.. I can't wait.. 

Z

Sleepless nights and boring meetings..

So, K decided that mommy didn't need sleep and wouldn't fall asleep until midnight then woke up at 3am and would not go back to sleep until just before mommy's alarm went off.. go figure.. 


So it has been decided that I will be doing my unit on recycling and land/soil conservation. It covers to GLCE's. and is pretty broad, but it works out that I don't have to try to work a "kit" into my plans. Today involved some early outlining and trying to find activities that fit into the framework.








The afternoon involved looking over the midterm and making sure there were 3 questions per benchmark. Also analyzing questions to make sure they were fair..


                                                                                                                                                                              
All is all a good day, especially since B picked up K so I could take a nap.. 

Here is to a better night .


------Z

Day two, survive!

Now to not get sick when the teachers all around me are coming down with something.. THis is the time to see if AIRBORNE really works.. 

I am tired.. 

But, all went well with B and K today except she was a little fussy after her shots.. GO K..

I hate waiting at the docs..

So student teaching went well. Really all I did was observe today and be introduced to the students and other faculty. It was pretty good. 

K seemed to enjoy her day at Em's and getting up with daddy, which is good since tomorrow is daddy day.. 

However, her day ended with her 4 month well baby appointment which means.. you got it SHOTS!.. ugh.. I hate when she gets shots, but what I hate more is getting to the docs on time and having to wait 20+ minutes to get called in and then waiting another 40 to see the doctor.. REALLY.. I have a hungry baby who is not looking forward to getting poked... 

Anyway, All went well. She cried before, during and after the shots..and whined the entire way home.. it was quite sad... and periodically she cries out in pain because I have accidentally touched her leg. :(..

On a happier note: She is now over 14lbs and almost 25 inches.. She has gone from the 4th percentile until about the 50th percentile..YIPPEE.. doc says perfect growth and her head control is great.. HOORAY!

Now she is sleeping and I am not far behind.. tomorrow is another busy day... we have to get the tree down..

here is K with her favorite "Educational" toy