This page is set up to tell everyone what's up with me in RL - or Real Life. I'll hopefully update it occasionally. :o) For the lastest news, just skip to the bottom of the page please.
For some time [insert years] now, my hubby and I have been trying to have children. After some time [insert year] with the OBGYN, we were sent to an infertility specialist this last fall. Tests were run from October through January to determine causes.
late Febuary 2000 ~ My boss, the Aquatic Coordinator, had to quit for personal reasons - her family. The head of the programs came to me and Sandy, and offered us to share Teresa's old job. Knowing how much more work there was, we had several meetings hammering out all the details and workings. This unfortunately coincided with my personal life [see early March] but I finally received a promotion - starting in March, I was going to be Swim Coordinator. I did not want the full time job of watching out for lifeguards as well as swimming lessons, so that job was given to someone else.
early March 2000 ~ The last diagnostic test is done - a laperoscopy. This surgery was done in conjuction with the surgery on my right index finger to remove a cyst. We thought since had to have the one, might as well have both surgeries together. I had a lot of problems with this surgery. The IV was giving me fits. It was a too big needle in my little vein, and it was resting on top of a bone in my hand. I was crying because of the IV, and not because I was scared, which is what all the doctors thought. No one would move the IV either, and I suppose I wasn't a very good patient, for they tried to make me groggy a bit before the time it was scheduled. "This will only make you groggy." They had told me, but Michael told me later that I turned my head to him and fell fast asleep on the spot. That wasn't supposed to happen, as I was supposed to move myself over to the operating table. The finger surgery had not a bit of trouble with. The lap found a bit of endiometriosis [sp?]. I had an extremely hard time waking up as well. I was asleep another hour and a half past the time scheduled for my wakeup time. Plus, I ended up spending more time recovering, and more IV's to flush my system out. When I started complaining about the IV again, Michael knew I'd be ok. :o) However, with the discovery of the endiometriosis, this meant that we had approxomately 6 months to a year before it came back and I had to go through the surgery once again. Michael was nice enough to tell me that this was the last surgery that I'd have to have dealing with this. But that only gives us a small window with which to have children. [through September at the earliest, next March at the latest.]
mid-March 2000 ~ Had to be admitted to the hospital early one morning. I was afraid that I was bleeding to death. I had completely bled through the thickest pads in a matter of 3 hours, and bled through my underwear completely, the sweats I was wearing to bed, as well as down through the sheets to the bed covering. At first, I couldn't understand why I was so sticky, it being 4am. Then I couldn't understand why I was wearing red underwear, and red sweats. I don't own any. At the point of realization, came also the point of panic. Michael came through for me, helping me to the hospital and with some tests. They finally came to the conclusion that it was just a heavy cycle. However, if I didn't stop within 12 hours, they would have to transfuse blood into me. I was to also get complete bedrest for the next 2 days. The timing of this all? This was the morning of my very first day of my new job as Swim Coordinator. Michael really helped me with my bedrest, feeding me and making sure I had everything I needed.
April 2000 ~ Knowing we had such little time, Michael decided to go as aggressive as we could with infertility treatments. The first round consisted of taking 100mg Clomid, 2 different sonograms to determine where in the cycle we were, and timing the last part of a shot and the office procedure. The Clomid gave me enough hormones to drive me bonkers! This looks promising, as there are 2 possibilities that had shown up in the sonogram. The results really had me convinced that this would be it.
June 5, 2000 ~ We were to get the results on our 7th wedding anniversary, a good omen, I felt, to a postive. But it turned out negative, when clumps appeared just two days prior to this. It was deemed not a normal cycle, and a pregnancy test was done anyway on the 5th. The results were a crushing disappointment.
mid June 2000 ~ Waiting for a regular cycle before going through the hoops again, I took more hormones to jump start my cycle. It didn't work.
June 20-26, 2000 ~ Friends Similyn and Nick-Ko-Las flew into BWI airport during rush hour traffic. :o) This is the second time I've seen Similyn, but the first time I've met the mysterious Nick. Best friends on the CATS board, and co-owners and operators, it was a great time! They stayed with me for a week, going into DC on Wednesday 21st [after my meeting at AVSP] and then again start of next week. Similyn had seen DC before, but was glad to go see it again. Not sure if Nick really cared all that much - he's from Canada, so one US city and another might as well be the same, eh? Said it before, I'll say it again, we had some really good times. :o)
June 22-24, 2000 ~ The three of us rented a car and drove up to NYC, and stayed with a couple of other friends up there - Munkustrap and Tantomile. For those of you familiar with CATS, no, it's not the actors. We all use our cat character names - these two are twin girls about 13 years old. Their parents were nice enough to put up with us for the weekend, and to help us along up there. The drive was about 5 hours or so, and then some sightseeing on Staton Island the first night. The second day three of us all spent sightseeing around with another friend from Michigan - Grizabella. Got to see the Empire State Building, and a lot of other CATS fanatics at a 2pm meeting. Shopping, of course, as well as some walking around [can't help that in NYC, unless you go by bus or subway!] Put on our make-up, [Thanks to Similyn for doing this for me!] and then went to go pick up Tatters at Grand Central Station. [That is another adventure I'm not going into here!] Went back to Griz's hotel room to put on costumes! [Similyn and Nick-Ko-Las, with Tatters, didn't wear one.] With all 7 of us, we went to see the "last" showing of CATS on Broadway. Met Bombalurina there, too. :o) Afterwards, unfortunately, Tatters had to go back home so back to the Station. [and cabs in NYC are as rare as hen's teeth!] The other 6 of us came back to TGIF and went to the party with the cast. Stayed up WAY past my bedtime - I got silly on the way back to the hotel. Put Griz in her room, and the twins father drove us back home. Dragging the next morning, we still somehow managed to drive back down to VA that day!
July 7, 2000 ~ Waited a few weeks, than did another pregnacy test. That came back negative as well.
mid July, 2000 ~ It seemed then as if I was at the beginning of my cycle with the ultrasound, so we started a new round of 150mg Clomid without waiting for a cycle. Looking at both ultrasounds - we did another one a few days after the first one - however, was rather discouraging. Nothing seemed to be happening or working. I was pronouced "viscous", but then was sent home to wait 3 more weeks.
mid-late July, 2000 ~ I ended up working almost 8-10 hours each day the third week in July. This included private lessons, teaching in the morning and afternoon, as well as my Coordinator duties. Worn completely out by that first weekend, I collasped. By Saturday morning, I literally could not walk to the bathroom and back. Made it there, as Michael had to carry me back. Slept a lot, and barely could sit up without tiring out. Michael fixed me meals, trying to get me to eat. I did try some, managed a bit. Too weak still to go to church that Sunday, but I was able to sit upright in a chair at the computer for a couple of hours that morning. Went back to bed, Michael fed me again, and slept. Tried again to sit up, another couple of hours that evening. Foolishly tried to go into work on Monday. Had to get a sub, and come home to collapse. More sleep, more rest, again Michael fed me. [notice a pattern of niceness to him yet? :o)] Was able to cut back on work on Tuesday, and make it the whole day teaching. By Thursday, was almost up to par, but the weekend wiped me back out again. Since that was Registration weekend [July 28 & 29], that was VERY bad. Had some wonderful ladies cover my registration, as I lay back in bed, unable to sit up once again.
early August 2000 ~ I did finally break down and get a doctor's appointment for my sinuses, which seemed to REALLY be acting up at this point. I was put on a round of antibiotics.
early August 2000 ~ The first part of August I ended up more or less burned/stressed out. With the news of Grandma falling on her hip, Michael sent me down to NC for a week. At that time, I wasn't sure she hadn't broken it. Found out later she had landed on her screw in her hip, which was painful and sore, but not broken. I went more for the rest and relaxation; he wanted to make sure that my grandparents were taken care of.
August 3-9, 2000 ~ Got to see some good friends, spent time thinking work and homelife through as well. Also spent Sunday, and part of Monday, trying to work outside at my grandparents. Got misquito bit on Sunday night [10 on 1 leg, 5 on the other, and 2 on the arm, and that's within 15 min. Everyone should KNOW that those blood suckers LOVE me!] and possible heat exhaustion Monday. [It was about 96 in the shade. I was dripping with water thrown on myself, and working in the sun. Taking breaks every couple of bushels of apples picked up off the ground too! WHEW! HOT!] Monday, I did not feel well. Got nauseated off my eggs and grits with bacon and orange juice. Went back to bed several times, and just was not feeling well. Several times that past couple of days my stomach felt not quite right. My parents came back from their trip out west from Grandma's 90th birthday party, and we spent a day together. Mom fixed lasagne, and I had the hardest time trying to eat it. I just did NOT feel well. April jokingly told me it was the stress of my job and my life, that I didn't want to go back home. I half laughed, and took that to be true, packed up after lunch, and drove home.
mid-August, 2000 ~ My sinuses STILL did not seem to be getting better, so I made another appointment with the doctor. While there, I asked him about some of the other symptoms I had - swollen and sore/bleeding gums. He'd stopped his inspection of my ears, calmly said "Oh, that's a sign of pregnancy. You might want to get it checked out" before going back to look in my ears again. That simple statement changed my entire life. Somehow, I couldn't just believe it. There was no WAY! We were waiting on my cycle to start. But it had been over 3 weeks, and I needed to contact my infertility specialist to get started on my cycle medicine again. I was talking with my friend Similyn, and April, about the possibility of being pregnant.. April squealed loud enough for the neighbors to hear. She was positive. Michael was positive. I couldn't be.
August 16, 2000 ~ I contacted the specialist again, and asked for a blood test. Had them to draw blood. We talked a bit about what to do if it came back negative. What we might do if it came back positive.
August 17, 2000 ~ I was awoken that morning by the nurse calling, not only to say that I was pregnant, but to say I was really pregnant! They wanted to do a sonogram immediately. I called Michael's office to set up appointment times with him - he was so happy he told the whole office he was a father! At 4 that afternoon we were able to see our baby for the first time with a sonogram. It is 9mm long, with a fast heartbeat, looking like a small tadpole. *big grin* [Later on, when my brother was visiting, he takes one look at these early pictures and claims they are a hurricane somewhere! Brothers! Humph! *grin*]
August 25, 2000 ~ My first appointment with the regular OBGYN. Michael came with me, and we ended up waiting about a total of 1 hour 15 min. [We tend to time this doctor, after the first few times of waiting!] I was weighed - 125lbs, and checked my urine. This is to check for hormones to make sure everything is running smoothly and to catch any possible complications early on. After looking through our medical charts he told us that if we didn't believe in God, we should. There is no medical way for us to be pregnant now! [Praise God! Haleighluah!] He took our medical history, and most everything looks fine. Checked me out physically, and sent us off to get an ultrasound of the baby. This was to determine precisely how far along, and when the due date is.
Sept 8, 2000 [afternoon] ~ This was our first ultrasound. I had to have a full bladder for it, and with them running behind schedule, I didn't think I could hold it very long! But we finally did get to see our baby once again. The technician showed Michael [for some reason I can't see these details] which was the head, and the arms, and the little legs. The baby kept flipping and rolling, and at one point Michael called out "It's doing the breastroke!" *grin* [He really meant the front crawl, waving the arms like that.] There was even a time that it seemed the baby was waving, and so the Doctor [who had come in, and taken over the ultrasound] took a picture, and typed in "Hi Dad!" Features aren't very clear on the baby just yet. They will fill out later on. Also, no news as what sex the baby is. We'll find that out with the next ultrasound at 20 weeks. We did however, find out how far along I was - 10 weeks, 4 days. They are counting from the end of June - about June 28. For the actual day of conception, it looks to be July 9 - just 2 days after my last pregnancy test! And for the due date... [drum roll please?] Carl wins with his guess of April 2. My guess was April 1, so I wasn't too far off!
Sept 8-9, 2000 ~ Back to work. My summer schedule of swimming lessons had been over now for almost 3 weeks, and working about 5 hours a week was REALLY nice. However, Registration weekend was upon me, and signing up for the next session. I had some tense moments as how to fill up the slots with enough teachers. Believe me, we are running completely shorthanded on teachers! Michael didn't like the idea of me teaching because of being pregnant because of the possibility of getting hurt. I have been kicked in the stomach numerous times, as well as hit in the face, kicked in the face, grabbed in the.. you get the idea. It can be quite physical, especially for the young terrified swimmer who wants to try his/her hardest to make it out to the teacher! [Or back to the wall, as the case may be!] However, with one teacher backing out on me at the last minute, I have to teach. Registration Weekend went off without much of a hitch, and classes started this next Tuesday, with Saturday classes starting on the 16.
Sept 8, 2000 ~ I've also tried to start swimming laps seriously. I've been told that I definately need an excercise program. Doesn't matter how many laps, just enough to keep my heart rate a bit up for 20 min. Walking was also a good one, but swimming was supposed to be the best, and since I'm the Swimming Coordinator, you'd think me getting in the water wouldn't be such a big deal. I think it's a bit worse, cause it reminds me of work, and I work around the pool all the time.
Sept 12, 2000 ~ First day of Tuesday/Thursday classes went off today. Also climbed in for my class I'm helping out in - with me being the helper, and not the teacher, it's a bit less stressful for me. However, a lightning storm hit, and we had to climb back out. We still tried holding class, talking about safety and things we normally cover in class later on. I think several parents went home, thinking that since the pool was closed, no class. The daytime classes were great, and the evening classes seem to be going well also.
Sept 14, 2000 ~ Started getting a headache the night before, and somehow it's holding on throughout the day. I've noticed that I tend to get these horrible headaches now, so I'm trying to shake them without taking too much medications. Sometimes I have to take a Tylenol, just to see if I could half shake it. I tried going to work tonight, but after I got there, they sent me home. I looked and acted that bad. BTW ~ headache left sometime during the night, so didn't really have it on the 15.
Sept 16, 2000 ~ First day of Saturday classes. Usual first day problems, and nothing really all that bad. Found out that one teacher might lose her job, if her dad took away her car. Am really hoping that her situation isn't that bad, and that she won't have to quit. Where will I be without her?
Sept 20-Oct 29, 2000 ~ I'm trying to do a "media" fast, in trying to concentrate more on God, and turning off the TV and cutting WAY back on my computer time. I can't very well fast for food, so this is my way of trying to get myself back in line with God. Of course, during this time, you might have a hard time getting ahold of me online, and I appologize for that. I'll let everyone know afterwards when I'm back in business again.
Sept 22, 2000 ~ My aunt Sue called, desperate to find Momma. She'd written me an email, telling me that she was going away to a camp this weekend. With Carl's help, he was able to send a message there for Momma to call me immediately. She did, and then called Aunt Sue. Grandma Threet was in bad shape - had been admitted to the hospital for throwing up violently. From Aunt Sue, over the hours and several phone calls, with emails, I learned that Grandma had been diagnosed with Gangrene Bowels. Either surgery, where she won't wake up, or no surgery, with about a week or less to live, was the options. The family, in knowing all that came with the surgery, decided against it. With later phone calls, however, I found out that with as much pain as she was in, the doctor decided to go ahead with the surgery anyway. After opening her up, it was found that her bowels were dead. Nothing could be done. Frantically tried to reach my parents again, to let them know that the clock was ticking on Grandma. Finally, after sending out a policeman to their camp, I found out that they had headed home earlier. Called at 11:30pm, and gave the updates. Parents are going out the next morning and driving the 14 hours straight through. I ended up being a complete and utter emotional mess tonight.
Sept 23, 2000 ~ I have to work from 3:30pm through 10:00pm tonight at VillageFest, which is Ashburn Village's equivelant to a yearly carnival that all the yearly employees must work at. My first one as a coordinator though. I was first assigned tickets, but "Mouse" [Dan] traded parking with me. I did end up a bit with morning sickness at 5, after an hour and a half of constant work out in the sun. Joann gave me some of her bagel, and I was able to lay down to rest as well. Talked with my teacher about her teaching classes, and it seems that she is still going to. [I am VERY thankful for that! As you can see, I have to go from one session to the next, not sure if I will have to work or if I will have enough teachers!] That night, about closing time, one of the rides malfuctioned by stopping too soon. Several of the cars banged together, and total [as of 1 week later] was up to 13 people hurt with minor injuries. That night, after taking the first couple of teenaged boys up to the Pavilion, I directed ambalances and rescue squads around. When I arrived home, pretty tired, Michael gave me the bad news - Grandma had passed away 2:30pm Central Time. A cousin had thoughtfully called and left a message. It was the same time my shift started at work.
Sept 25-28, 2000 ~ My parents called from Arkansas to give me updates on what was happening out there with the family. The funeral was Tuesday at 2:00pm. Most of the family was able to be there, but Michael didn't want to upset me terribly by going or having a replay of Friday night. My brother Jimmy ended up not going as well, with his schedule of truck driving, it just wasn't possible even if he had enough warning. Parents arrived safely back home Wednesday; we were able to talk the next night.
Sept 30-Oct 1, 2000 ~ Going to the Pennsylvania Rennascainse Faire! We had a blast. Not planning any particular time to get up and leave, we weren't in any hurry to get there either. That made for a relaxing day, with a few shows to watch and some shops to browse through. Saturday night, we checked into a nearby hotel in Harrisburg. The McD's next door, however, was one of the WORST we've ever eaten at! Going to bed relatively early because of an exhausting day, I was able to get some sleep even if poor Michael didn't. The next day we had our schedule all mapped out, and went to see the shows that we'd planned. Michael also got some more shopping time in. At one point, I about fainted from overdoing it, and Michael "Parked" me on a bench to watch a show while I recovered. We were able to watch the Queen's Court, a Jousting Match [the final one we ended up not watching on either day], the Chess Match, the Finale, and all of the Raptor shows. Watching the hawks and falcons train with the Master Falconer is a sight to see, and no two shows are alike! Also caught several singing groups [from a rowdy girl's group, to a soft husband/wife team of Love Ballads, to the Scottish songs and several I'm sure I'm forgetting at the moment!], a hypnotist, and a silent magic show [I wish my parents could have seen it!]. Some of the food we ate: spicy chicken pieces [several times!], spicy potato wedges, popcorn, pretzel, Italian ice, drunk LOTS of Wassel [for when it was cold to warm up] and lots of water [for when it was hot and had to cool off!], frozen lemonade, a couple of Strawberry/Banana smoothies, and I had my handy crackers with me to snack on. Of course, we did not get to see all the shows we would have liked or all the time to browse through all the shops. The fair this year had added on a new section, as well as many more shops and several rides I would have LOVED to go on, except for the fact that I couldn't while pregnant. On Sunday night, Michael was the one that ended up pooping out and we left a bit early to get back home. Spent the next day or so trying to recover from our vacation!
Sept 30 - Oct 2, 2000 ~ On a side note, before we left for the Faire on Saturday, Michael noticed our ceiling was leaking. Not wanting to deal with it then, we waited until Monday to call our management company. We then went upstairs to talk with the neighbor about what it might be. It turned out to be his hot water heater had a leak in it, and he turned it off to get a new one. If we hadn't noticed and it had busted, major water damage could have resulted from it. Praise God we didn't have to do any major repairs like we had feared!
Oct 6-8, 2000 ~ The yearly Jellicle Ball! Yes, got sick of the computer, and yes, had a blast! All my old friends came out of the internet cyberspace to join in, and singing and dancing abounded! [We did it through RPing the dancing, and wav files on the singing!] Special thanks to Michael for doing "Troubador", as I did a couple of kittens myself. A lot of the parodies will go up on the parody page from this Ball - there were some cute and funny songs! The storylines were quite interesting as well - as old girlfriends showed up and someone announced a prophecy of dying. A cat "released" from Macavity, only to prove later it WAS Macavity! [Oh, the information he gathered while disguised! This will be a VERY interesting storyline!] Then Shadowcat was chosen to go to the Heaviside Layer [believe me, THAT was one shock no one had anticipated!] - that particular storyline had be bawling to no end! VERY emotional .. up through the part where the kitten shows up. [Will have a link to that soon, if anyone is interested in reading it] Afterwards, a very old and dear friend showed up - she had left under less than ideal circumstances - as another emotional wrought scene was RPed out. All in all, a very good Ball! [And all the effort put into it, with all the extras - many thanks to Similyn! I also put in some effort, but most of my contribution was during the Ball itself, and the sums afterwards.]
Oct 6-8, 2000 ~ Michael went to a prayer retreat from the church Friday and Saturday, knowing I was "out of commission" for the weekend. Then Sunday went with me to church [I ended up bawling at something the pastor said that morning during sermon. I think my pregnancy hormones kicked in!] and that afternoon went over to visit the Knopps. Called me about 7pm that night, caught me right after I was peicing myself back together again. Me: *Sob* Hi honey *blow nose* Michael: What's wrong? I'm coming home! Me: Nooooo... *wail* Just.. *sniffle* storyline... Michael: are you ok? Me: It's *sniff* wrapping up in a *hiccup* bit *wiping tears* Michael: I'm coming home anyway. [I am just grateful he wasn't here when I really fell to peices!]
Oct 9-10, 2000 ~ While I was on "vacation", I asked my assistant to do the Registration weekend for me. Going in Monday to get ready for the next session of classes, it was a bit disappointing how many classes I had to cancel for lack of sign-ups. Tuesday was the first day of classes, and most went off without a hitch. I had to substitute for the afternoon teacher, who's away on vaction to Florida. Another session underway!
Oct 12, 2000 ~ The big day. Hopefully HOA voted on the WTS contract for the Pavilion, and I will have a job there next year. However, no news yet, as the morale at work falls.
Oct 12, 2000 ~ Had my blood drawn for the testing down at the hospital. Normal proceedure for being pregnant, but I rather acted strange. Hypervenelated, when I didn't think I was bleeding into the 4th tube. I don't think it helped that I was having nightmares about this beforehand, or that I made the poor nurse upset over me being upset. She was the best one I've had in drawing blood. Didn't hurt but a sting. Total of 6 tubes, 1 bathroom run, and 2 overly concerned nurses about the crazy patient. After I got out of there... I ran home!
Oct 14, 2000 ~ I subsituted for a teacher today. It was interesting teaching, but I am noticing that my emotional kneel isn't completely settle. I think I would do better NOT to teach, and get upset.
Oct 16, 2000 ~ OBGYN appointment today. Met the midwife, in case the OBGYN was unable to deliever. Heart beat slower than before, but that's to be expected as baby grows. Heard some static as well - that's baby moving and kicking. :o) Unfortunately, with my growing sinus infection and unability to eat, I've lost 2 pounds instead of gaining 4. Down to 128 now. Not good. Blood tests haven't arrived yet with the results, but nothing to panic about yet. The appointment is made for my birthday - 11/22 - at 9am for the next sonogram. The next OBGYN appointment is 11/13.
Oct 17, 2000 ~ I got kicked in the stomach for the swimming lesson. NOT good, but nothing seems to be wrong. Wish that the afternoon teacher would show up, but if she doesn't, these are my classes, and I have to teach them.
Oct 21, 2000 ~ Maryland Rennescience Festival! It's the 2nd largest of it's kind, and looking forward to a GREAT day!
Oct 23, 2000 ~ Mom-in-law had a total hip replacement surgery. With her reacting quite nicely to the sleeping stuff - too well - and with the Morphine, she ended up losing a day. Couldn't stay awake, and the nurses told Dad that she would stop breathing if not kept awake. Not a good day.
Oct 26, 2000 ~ Went to visit Mom Jones for the first time since surgery. Still in the hospital, very out of it. Have some exercises to work on, but having major problems with the pain meds. She's desperately hoping to go home soon.
Oct 28, 2000 ~ I was to subsitute on this day for another teacher, but woke up not feeling well. Threw up, and with Michael's help, called the kids and cancelled all classes. The teacher will make up the class on November 18. Meanwhile, I spent a miserable day. Nothing could make me stop throwing up - no matter how little I ate [1 bite of apple] or how little I drank [just water] Michael really helped me, and if it wasn't for him, I couldn't have made it! He ended up calling the doctor at 2, and he prescribed sepository for me. If I didn't stop within 2 hours, I would have to be admitted to the hospital for an IV. Luckily, the meds did the trick, and I was able to hold down liquids and a bit of solid crackers by the end of the day. Imagine starving and sick at the same time - it wasn't fun. It was determined that I had gotton ahold of some bad food and a touch of food poisoning.
Oct 29, 2000 ~ Still a lot out of it, we went up to visit Mom Jones at home. She was sent home on Friday, and on Wednesday was to recieve a therapist to start home therapy. She is taking it rather hard having to lie in the bed all the time, and her nerves are shot. Dad is trying to do his best to take care of her, but already he's wearing out too. Can't sleep at night.
Nov 1, 2000 ~ Went to visit Joneses before heading south to NC for a visit. Leasurely drive, mainly because I couldn't handle sitting still for long periods of time. We also listened to a book on tape Cherri had given us for this purpose, and time flew.
Nov 2, 2000 ~ On Thursday we shampooed carpet for Grandparents. I help lift some furniture that was extra heavy Michael couldn't do by himself. We all had a nice picnic outdoors during lunch, trying to let the carpet dry. With my parents, we took a walk down through the field [I think Dad says it's 13 acres?] and afterwards I just slept. Michael, with the help of my parents, finished up with the carpets and moved all the furniture back.
Nov 3, 2000 ~ Drove up to the mountains for apples, and looking at baby things. Bought our first baby furniture today! It's a teal and pink stroller. :o) Got out, did some looking around. Wore ourselves out! Also was able to do some visiting with Nettles.
Nov 4, 2000 ~ Grandparents' 70th anniversary today. The party was for them, and for Granddaddy's 90th birthday on the 6th. All 3 sons showed up, with most [1 Grandson with family didn't show] of the Grandchildren and spouses [or finacee!], their children, etc. showing. All in all, we had 25 of us "Millers" there. I did have some problems this morning with cramps, so I'm definately NOT going to be working much and taking it MUCH easier in the future!
Nov 5, 2000 ~ After church with the family and lunch back at parents, Michael and I headed back home to VA. After crossing into the VA border, he stopped sniffling and sneezing so much. With all the dry weather down there, he was practically allergic to the entire state! Now that we're back in VA, guess who's got the sinus problem now?!
Nov 8, 2000 ~ Ugh, a couple of cavities for me from the dentist! I have to have an OBGYN's note, though, in order to get them worked on since I'm pregnant.
Nov 8, 2000 ~ Had a meeting with a financial advisor tonight. Working out the details of our finances now, and we are looking to be in not bad shape. Michael's dream of retiring at 55, however, isn't going to happen.
Nov 10-11, 2000 ~ Another Registration weekend, and work picking up. Had to pull in some hours beforehand, and during this weekend. Feeling like a full time job sometimes, even though I barely work part-time. This next session I have to work myself, for lack of good teachers. I'm working the advanced school kids though, for fear of getting kicked. These know how to swim and wouldn't kick me. With the amount of kicking baby is doing, however, I would say I'm definately getting kicked!
Nov 13, 2000 ~ Appointment with Dr. Tudder. Was able to talk with him about some concerns, and listen to the heartbeat of our baby again. Some static as well, as baby was moving all about. It's just so precious to hear!
Nov 14, 2000 ~ We were called at 1:30am by Mom Jones. Dad had been taken to the ER, and we needed to be in WV ASAP. After driving up, Michael spent the night with his dad while I was able to snatch about 5 hours of sleep. The next morning, Michael was able to snatch a bit of sleep while I went to visit Dad in the hospital. Aunt Norma stayed with Mom all night, and helped in the morning until Michael woke up. Dad had all the signs of having a small stroke, but nothing was shown on the MRI. Since major strokes usually happen 24 hours after a minor one, he was kept for observation. I had to drive back for work that night, and a meeting the next day. Left Michael taking care of his parents.
Nov 15, 2000 ~ Meeting with the big boss from WTS. Found out about the new contract in detail concerning my field of swimming lessons. The biggest concern right now is the private lessons, and I'm looking into the insurance rates for that.
Nov 15, 2000 ~ After the meeting, drove back up to WV. Dad had been released from the hospital. Turns out it was an inner ear thing, and not a stroke after all. He was able to get a lot of rest, however, staying in the hospital, so that was good. Picked Michael up, and drove back. Both of us collapsed after that - and a few days spent recovering.
Nov 18, 2000 ~ Our "To Do" list became unbearably long, so we spent today working our way though part of it. I had to stop and rest a few times; I just can't keep up with Michael's energy! Very proud of ourselves - got 16 things off of it. :o) The bad news? Wore ourselves out so completely, we ended up having to crash the next day rather badly!
Nov 22, 2000 ~ My birthday, and the day of the sonogram! Woke up rather nauseated at 4am - another bout of food poisoning! I couldn't handle being sick. I prayed and prayed, woke Michael up, ran back and forth to the toilet. God answered my prayers, however, and at 5:30am was able to get back to sleep. Wasn't able to eat much that morning. I definately didn't want to have a recurring bout of it, so only drank some instant breakfast. Got to the office a good 20 min early. [oops!] The first thing we saw on the screen was a pair of long leg bones. The technician called out "Wow, would you look at those long legs!" The baby was curled up with it's legs stretched out over it's head. Getting a good look, she told us she was almost positive that it was a girl. We were shown her little face, and her constantly moving mouth. It was so cute! You could even see a bit of her tongue occasionally. We got to teasing each other that she's going to be a talker, perhaps like her mother? *big grin* But perhaps she was only hungry; after all, I hadn't eaten much that morning. She was really good - stayed still for the technician for most of the pictures. We got to see all 4 chambers of her heart, her stomach, her bladder, her kidneys, and parts of her brain as well as her bone structure and the way the blood flowed through her heart. [That last was in color, the rest in black and white] We got lots of pictures of our baby girl too - and we definately know it's a girl, because when the technician came back to measure her leg bone, she PEED!! Momma was right though. Having the sonogram on my birthday was one of the best birthday presents ever! The rest of the day was just spent in hanging out, and playing on the computer with Michael. Rented a few movies as well, and had "Mac and Matees" for my birthday supper. [That's Michael talk for "Macaroni and Tomatos"]
Nov 23, 2000 ~ Thanksgiving day, we went up to WV and went out to eat at Cracker Barrel with Mom, Dad, and Aunt Betty. Good day visiting, after eating a wonderful meal.
Dec 5, 2000 ~ Another meeting at work, to work out the details concerning the private lessons and "private contractor" status with insurance. This process is really starting to wear on my nerves! And with very little time before Jan, I'm afraid it's getting down to the wire!
Dec 8-9, 2000 ~ I went to the women's retreat through our church. It was a totally awesome weekend! I really enjoyed it, and am glad I went after all. Major topics include: To live a fulfilling life: Know Jesus, Know yourself [that bright and shiny kernel deep down inside, with no labels], walking with others [can't do your walk by yourself all the time - need support of others! Then of course, sometimes God wants you to take that next step, on faith, with just Him...] and bring God in the background through to the foreground of just "living"! Great in my small group time - hoping to get an accountablity partner out of this - and just spellbound listening to the leaders Nancy Sheffey and Iris. Way to go God!
Dec 12, 2000 ~ Last day of classes. Trained "Mouse" [Dan] at work to take over my job and made sure he understood everything involved. He's feeling overwhelmed with all the things he's taking over with the restructurizing, and then having to learn my job as I'm leaving might be the last straw. It sure feels good to stop teaching though! I'm planning on starting again next fall, after Michael can stay at home with baby Gracie. Yes, we're calling her by her middle name, because right now we don't know what we will call her first name.
Dec 14, 2000 ~ Meeting with top brass concerning the new contract with WTS and AVSP. Working out all the wrinkles still on the contract; however, the area I work for - swimming lessons - has been ironed out. What a relief off my back!
Dec 15, 2000 ~ We started down today, to let the ice storm from yesterday to melt off and the fog from last night to dissipate. Got a late start, arrived after supper. Visited with parents tonight, and helped put up Christmas decorations.
Dec 16, 2000 ~ April came over today for a few hours for visiting. Jimmy's truck having problems, so we postponed Christmas until tomorrow. Saw Grandparents in the afternoon with their Christmas, and visited with Nettles in the morning for an hour. Was able to talk with Sarah a bit more tonight.
Dec 17, 2000 ~ Christmas! After Sunday School and church, back home for lunch. However, more problems from Jimmy and April, so didn't get started until later in the afternoon. Good time over dinner and around the tree, before April had to go to work and the rest of us went to do what we needed to do. I ended up helping Momma out with the puppets at church. This is the first time in a LONG time I was able to do this, and it brought back some of the joy I feel with puppetry in teaching. After the musical service that night, back home and watched a TV Christmas movie with popcorn.
Dec 18, 2000 ~ Driving back home to VA today. Left after a big breakfast, arrived back a little late for supper. VERY tired! Found out some disturbing news about family's finances.
Dec 19, 2000 ~ First snow of the season! Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow! Michael came home early from work; I ended up not going out to work after all.
Dec 20, 2000 ~ A break with the family, concerning finances all around. Very upsetting.
Dec 25, 2000 ~ Wonderful Christmas with the Joneses, and Aunt Betty. Mom actually cooked dinner, with Dad's help. She did take it easy afterwards, and let others clean up.
Dec 21-31, 2000 ~ Michael's home on vacation! We spent time together on the computer, watching TV, watching movies, and just talking. :o) We also spent time apart [just so you know we didn't get on each other's nerves!]
Dec 27-28, 2000 ~ My replacement at work was hired; I love her! Perfect for the job, except she's never handled anything on this scale and this is her second job. She's going to college too - so her loyaties aren't first place here.
Dec 31, 2000 ~ OK, she called up and quit. After spending over 5 hours training her last Friday, she took home the detailed job description and looked it over. Decided it's too much for her. Which means, I'm back to trying to train my boss again. *sigh*